1. Bangkok
The capital of Thailand is a bustling metropolis with a population of over eight million. Bangkok is a fantastic starting point for visiting the greatest temples and palaces in the nation and is well known for its cosmopolitan vibe and lively street life. Bangkok’s heart lies on the water, as seen by the numerous canals that connect its districts and the bustling Chao Phraya River, which you can tour on a long-tail boat excursion. However, it’s easy to forget this when wandering amid Bangkok’s skyscrapers.
Bangkok has various shopping malls, including the opulent Siam Paragon and the travel-themed Terminal21, as well as a variety of traditional floating markets, making it a great place to go shopping. Nothing beats Chatuchak Market for a really unique experience. One of the biggest outdoor marketplaces in the world with over 8000 booths (be prepared to get lost there), Chatuchak has it all and offers it for a reasonable price.
The Grand Palace, a collection of structures that includes Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), the Royal Reception Halls, and Wat Pho—which is home to a 46-meter-long reclining Buddha wrapped in gold leaf—is at the top of the list of things to do in Bangkok.
2. Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, a city of historic structures, dense tropical rainforests, and hill hiking, is one of the greatest places to visit in Thailand for tourists wishing to experience a distinct side of the country. Chiang Mai is shrouded in foggy, jungly mountains. Visiting Doi Inthanon National Park, a Himalayan mountain range with isolated communities and breathtaking vistas, is a great opportunity to see Chiang Mai’s wild side.
More active Buddhist temples than any other Thai city may be found in Chiang Mai, including the well-known Doi Suthep (a popular viewpoint with stunning views of the city center), Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. A variety of hill tribes, notably the Meo Hill tribe and the Karen tribe, can be found not far from the city. Organized excursions may take you there to learn more about their history and way of life and to purchase the handicrafts that tribe members sell to support themselves.
3. Chiang Rai
The highland city of Chiang Rai is known for its trekking in Lam Nam Kok National Park, with paths leading to beautiful waterfalls like the 70-meter-tall Khun Kon waterfall, lush forest, and hilltop tribal settlements. Chiang Rai is located close on the border with Myanmar and Laos.
Temples are a major draw in Chiang Rai, as they are in other Thai cities, with Wat Rong Khun (or White Temple) at the top of the list. Technically no longer a temple, Wat Rong Khun is now a privately owned complex that one of Thailand’s most well-known modern visual artists, Chalermchai Kositpipat, completely restored and reconstructed. Another well-known temple is Wat Tham Pla, which can be accessed by ascending a stairway and is also the location of a cave and several wild macaques.
4. Koh Samui
Koh Samui, one of the most well-liked vacation destinations in Thailand, is home to picture-perfect beaches, majestic jungles, and magnificent sunsets. Along with spas and temples, this area is home to the well-known Wat Phra Yai and its 12-meter-tall Big Buddha.
The nearby archipelagos of Koh Samui are likewise rich in attractions and are only a short ferry ride away. One of the top scuba diving locations in Thailand is the tiny island of Koh Tao, which is just off the coast of Koh Samui. The protected Ang Thong National Marine Park, which encompasses 42 nearby islands, is a great place to go hiking in the dense Thai forest and is home to many unusual animal species.
5. Phuket
Phuket, which is located off the coast of western Thailand in the Andaman Sea, is a well-liked spot for beach vacations since it is home to some of the nation’s busiest beaches. Travelers may visit Kata Noi Beach for a tranquil setting, Nai Harn Beach for crystal-clear seas under the shade of palm trees, and Surin Beach for opulent resorts and fine dining with a view of the ocean.
At the peak of Nakkerd Hill, Phuket’s spiritual side may be discovered, where the 45-meter-tall Big Buddha watches over the territory. The biggest temple in Phuket is Wat Chalong, which also has a stupa rumored to contain a Buddha bone part.
6. Pattaya
Less than two hours away, Pattaya, formerly a sleepy fishing hamlet, is now the nearest beach retreat for residents of Bangkok. There is much more to do in this coastal hamlet than just escape the bustle of the Thai capital and soak up some sun.
Start your vacation at Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach) or Koh Samet beach, which are brimming with vibrant food vendors, beach umbrellas, and luxurious resorts. While Koh Larn Island is the top location for sports like parasailing and windsurfing, it is also renowned for its glass-bottom boats that provide magnificent views of the coral reefs.
