Thailand is a land of many things. It prides itself on some of the most beautiful natural enviornments in the world, it has a very rich heritage and culture, and has millions of visitors coming to see this beautiful, colorful land every year. If you ever go to this wondrous place, be sure to not miss out on any of the locations on this list. Believe me, you won’t regret it!
1. The Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai province, North Thailand
This nature preserve in the North of Thailand includes the tallest mountain in the country, rising up to 2,565 meters. In addition, the area includes a gorgeous cloud forest, waterfalls, and exotic plant life. The park spreads over 482 square km ( and includes two old pagodas built on the mountain in honor of the king and queen. The rich, green foliage and the exotic and colorful flowers serve as a great testament to the beauty of Thailand.
2. The white temple, south of Chiang Rai, North Thailand
This one-of-a-kind temple was erected in honor of the current king of Thailand, and from afar may look ancient. When you get closer, however, you’ll see that indeed this masterpiece was created in the 20th century, because right next to the images and statues of the Buddha and the complex artwork, there are murals depicting popular culture images like superman, batman, aliens etc. Some of these sculptures can be downright bizarre and disturbing! So even if you think you know what temples look like, don’t miss this surreal place. You won’t regret it.
3. The Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple and the Bell Temple, North Thailand
This temple rests on the Doi Suthep mountain, next to the city of Chiang Mai in North Thailand, overlooking an incredible view from atop its 1,000 meter (3280 feet) perch. To visit, you must go on a cable car and go down the beautiful and famous dragon staircase. This is the second most important temple in the country (after the "Emerald Buddha"), and next to it is a bell temple you can feel free to ring.
4. The Royal Palace, Bangkok
This palace has served the kings of Siam (Thailand’s previous name) since 1782. Today, it is mostly used for official ceremonies of the current king of Thailand, Rama VII, and where one can find the "Emerald Buddha" temple. From the outside, it looks like a combination of traditional Thai style and classic European styles. Its inner, beautiful spaces are loaded with ancient artifacts and marvelous decorations, turning it into a must-see spot for visitors to the city.
5. Wat Pho Temple, Bangkok
Also known as the temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho can be found close to the royal palace, and is considered the most ancient temple in Thailand, built in 1788. The length of the reclining Buddha is 43 meters (141 feet) and it stands at 15 meters (50 feet) tall. In addition, the compound houses over 1,000 Buddha statues as well as special structures that, according to tradition, contain the ashes of the Buddha. Visitors of the temple place coins in some of the 108 bowls representing the qualities of Buddha, believing it brings good luck.
6. Khao San Road, Bangkok
Khao San Road takes you on a long path that offers a five-sense experience. This is how you experience the unlimited energy of Bangkok by checking out the neverending rows of stalls offering food, memorabilia, massages, fabrics and much, much more. If you can imagine it, you’ll find it here.
This area is energetic and alive, full of bars and restaurants. That said, this isn’t the place for fine dining, but it does open you to the rich culture of Thailand and its unique foods, from exotic fruits to edible insects (if you’re feeling adventurous). If you want to see the true abundance of Thailand, this is the place to come to.
7. Sam Roi Yot National Park, Central Thailand
Dramatic peaks, virgin beaches, picturesque fishing villages, huge caves and even a jungle – this national park, also known as the "Mountains with 300 peaks", is breathtakingly beautiful. It’s most well known location is the "Cavern of the Illuminated Temple", in which one can find a Buddhist temple built exactly where the rays of sun penetrate the cavern ceiling, leading to an impressive and magical sight.
8. Erawan Falls, Central Thailand
Erawan Park is located about 3 hours drive from Bangkok and includes its famous waterfalls, considered among the most beautiful in Thailand. The Erawan Falls drop down seven "stairs" that create beautiful pools that invite visitors to bathe and enjoy them. The green jungle around you adds an atmosphere of seclusion and privacy. Don’t forget your swimsuits!
9. Kaeng Krachan Reserve, Central Thailand
At about a two hour drive from Bangkok, you’ll find the biggest nature preserve in Thailand. It’s spread on an area of about 3,000 square km (1865 square miles) and is full of waterfalls, rivers, Stalactite caves, a plethora of wild animals and a rich plant life. It has something for everyone, from trekking lovers to families with small children. Whoever loves nature and is looking for a combination of walking, swimming and viewing incredible sights – this is the place to go.
10. The holy city hill (Phra Nakhon Khiri), Central Thailand
The holy city is Phetchaburi, one of the most ancient cities in Thailand. It is full of temples, but the most interesting one is the "Holy City Hill" – a complex of temples found on three hills above the city. It also contains palaces and even an observatory. If that’s not enough for you, you can enjoy the stunning gardens between the temples. You’ll probably spot a few of the monkeys allowed to run loose in the area.
11. Khao Lak, South Thailand
This is the name of an area containing several villages, each more beautiful than the rest. These villages have wonderful beaches that offer all that a beach should offer – crystal clear water, white sands and a view of mountains covered by dense vegetation. Because this is a vacation area with a great reputation, you’ll find great hotels and plenty of places to dine, many right on the beach.
12. Koh Hung Island
Thailand has been blessed with several incredible islands, and it’s a very hard job to try and choose between them. So rather than tell you about the famous ones you already know about, here’s one you may have not. Koh Hung Island in South Thailand is blessed with sapphire blue waters, white sandy beaches, stunning narrow lagoons that offer kayak tours and many other adventures that turn this little gem of an island to the fulfillment of any tropical trip fantasy.
