Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for travelers, especially in South-East Asia, and rightly so. The scenic landscapes, pristine beaches, mouth-watering cuisine, beautiful architecture, and stunning temples draw millions of tourists every year to this mesmerizing country. The county has undoubtedly earned its name as the ‘Land Of Smiles’, as you’ll meet some of the fun-loving and friendliest people on the earth.
Tourists are often spoiled for choices here, as there are so many places to explore and numerous things to do. It is a country where you can’t get bored. Narrowing down the list of things to do in Thailand is one of the most challenging things for any visitor, as there are numerous attractions and hot spots to explore.
Here is a narrowed list of top 10 things to see in Thailand, to help you make the most of your fun-filled holiday.
1. Witness the majestic beauty of The Grand Palace located in Bangkok
The Grand Palace is undeniably the most famous landmark in Thailand. This historical site was built in 1782 and was the home of The Thai monarch for 150 years. The Grand Palace has an influx of visitors throughout the year due to its immaculate architecture that boasts the Thai people’s craftsmanship and creativity.
2. Explore the beaches and islands of Phang Nga Bay
With its treasure-trove of scenic places, Phang Nga Bay offers multiple tourist places for you to visit. You can take a boat ride to the extremely popular James Bond Island or visit the remarkable village of Koh Panyee constructed over the water on stilts. Enjoy a delicious meal on shacks and restaurants built on stilts or shop for handicrafts in this astonishing village that boasts of a giant rock monolith. You can also hire a kayak or take a boat ride to explore the distinctive, almost vertical limestone cliffs that astound you with its beauty.
3. Play in the white coral-sand beaches of Similan Islands
Surrounded by huge boulders lining the western and southern shores of the Similan Islands, it is one of the best-known island groups in the Andaman Sea. The white coral-sand beaches are a treat for beach lovers. Experience some of the most adventurous things to do in Thailand on this beach by engaging in water sports, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
4. Experience the floating markets in Bangkok
Bangkok’s floating markets should be on the list of every tourist visiting Thailand. The vibrant atmosphere of the market selling fruits, vegetables, fresh coconut juices, and local cuisines from floating boats makes for a memorable experience. There are several floating markets in Thailand; you can visit DamnoenSaduak Floating Market as it’s the most popular and one of the biggest in the country.
5. Reinvigorate your body with Thai massage
Thai massages are extremely popular for their unique approach that focuses on the pressure points of the body to offer complete relaxation. You can easily find a good massage parlor in every small town and city in Thailand for an invigorating massage that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket.
6. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai
The Theravada Buddhist temple is situated on the eight largest mountain in Thailand. Located 15 kilometers from Chiang Mai city and located at an elevation of 1073 meters, this temple will mesmerize you with the gorgeously planned architecture. You can also witness the mesmerizing view of downtown Chiang Mai city from the mountain.
7. Hop through some of the most beautiful islands
You can explore several beautiful islands on Krabi and Phuket. Explore the white sand beaches of the famous islands like Ko Phi Phi Don, Khao Phing Kan, Ko Yao Yai, Ko Mai Phai, etc. Enjoy the picturesque beauty of these islands on a long tail boat or indulge in kayaking, snorkeling, etc.
8. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khao Yai
Khao Yai is Thailand’s third-largest and among the most visited rain forest parks. This UNESCO heritage site is beautiful with a lush, hilly landscape, with gorgeous valleys, pristine waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.
9. Try mouth-watering Thai street food
Eating on the street side stalls is one of its kind experience. Enjoy the specialties like the Pad See Eiw (Thai version of spaghetti and meatballs), Som Tam (papaya salad), Kai Jeow (Thai omelet served over rice), noodle soup, to an array of street food to satiate your hunger lust.
10. Break bread with the tribal folks of Northern Thailand
Get an authentic experience by traveling with a verified, local guide and visit the Akha, Lisu, Hmong, and Karen tribes across the north of Thailand. Spend a day or a few nights with an indigenous family to learn and experience their way of life.
If you are an exploration junkie you can opt for adventurous tours in Thailand, that are offered by various travel agents. It is also essential to know about the things not to do in Thailand before your visit as they can be pretty helpful to avoid a bad experience. Avoid the ping pong shows, seedy areas of Bangkok and Pattaya, take an unmetered taxi, etc. make the most of your trip to this fascinating country.
