Thailand Travel Treasures: Best Places to Explore
Be it the dynamic culture, stunning sceneries, and warm hospitality exhibited by the beautiful country of Thailand—no wonder a total of 1,04,0069 tourists from all over India visited Thailand in just the first six months of this year as mentioned by the Thai Consul-General in Kolkata Siriporn Tantipanyathep (Hindu, 2024). Ranging from bustling cities to serene beaches and ancient temples, there is much to offer in Thailand for its visitors. In this guide, we will walk you through the best places to visit in Thailand and help you make the most of it.
Visa Free Travel
Starting from June 2024, Thailand now allows retirees, graduate students, and remote workers from 93 countries—including India—to stay for a maximum of 60 days. The purpose of this action is to boost economic growth and tourism. The term of the visa for remote workers is extended to five years, with 180-day stays permitted at a time (Business Standard, 2024).
Bangkok: The Vibrant Capital
The capital city should be visited for its mixed array of traditional and modern attractions. Start off by visiting the Grand Palace in the centre of the capital city, home to the revered Emerald Buddha. Then, visit Wat Pho, with its giant reclining Buddha, and treat yourself to a real Thai massage.
For shopaholics, there's an expansive range of merchandise available in the Chatuchak Weekend Market, from garments to antiques. Not to be missed, though, is the legendary nightlife of this city, where bars, clubs, and night markets never seem to end. Bangkok is doubtless one of the best places in Thailand.
Phuket: The Beach Paradise
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and a paradise for beach lovers. Patong Beach would likely be the most happening one, since everybody is having a ball time in its nightlife and water activities. If you want a more secluded experience, head toward Kata Beach or Karon Beach.
Or for a more adventurous outing, take a boat ride to the Phi Phi Islands or Similan Islands for snorkelling and diving. Phuket is also a destination for some in-town culture—come visit the Big Buddha or head down to the historic Old Phuket Town.
Chiang Mai: The Cultural Hub
Chiang Mai is simply a cultural treasure house nestled in north Thailand. Within this city, more than 300 temples can be found, of which Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most famous (Hotels.com, 2024). This hilltop temple offers commanding vistas of the city.
Chiang Mai's ancient walls and moats are home to many temples and museums within the Old City. Equally unmissable is the Sunday Walking Street Market, where one gets to know the local food and buy souvenir items like handcrafted things. Chiang Mai is one of the best places in which to be immersed culturally in Thailand.
Pattaya : the Entertainment Capital
While Pattaya boasts its nightlife, some family-friendly spots to enjoy are the Sanctuary of Truth. This is a large wood structure that boasts elaborated carvings and displays Thai architecture.
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is perfect with its beautifully designed gardens and cultural shows, which will give all the fun for the day. On the other hand, Pattaya Beach and Jomtien Beach are ideal for water sports and leisure time.
Krabi: The Adventure Seeker's Haven
Krabi has always been one of the more famous places in the South, known for its beautiful limestone cliffs and beaches. Without failure, Railay Beach can only be reached by boat and is famous for rock climbing. Actually, another famous area is Ao Nang Beach, where many water activities and island-hopping tours are available.
Journey to the Phi Phi Islands, known for their pristine waters and colourful sea life. There's also the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park in Krabi, where you can do trekking in lush rainforests and swim in the Emerald Pool. Without question, Krabi stands among the greatest places to visit in Thailand, especially for adventure addicts.
Ayutthaya: The Historic City
Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must for history enthusiasts. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, with ruins and temples dating back centuries. Take a walk around the Ayutthaya Historical Park and see the iconic Wat Mahathat, with an entwined head of Buddha and tree roots.
You can also pay a visit to the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace and the Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Ayutthaya gives you a taste of Thailand's enriched history and highly places itself in the list of best places to visit in Thailand for a historical journey.
Koh Samui: The Island Getaway
The next famous island is Koh Samui, with its palm-fringed beaches and high-end resorts. Chaweng Beach is where most of the action happens in terms of the liveliest nightlife. Lamai Beach and Mae Nam Beach provide quiet spots for relaxation.
Last but not least, an archipelago of 42 islands makes up Ang Thong National Marine Park, offering views amid a lot of outdoor activities (Thai National Parks, 2024). The inland attractions include the Na Muang Waterfalls and the Secret Buddha Garden.
Hua Hin: The Royal Retreat
Hua Hin is a seaside resort city that is a favourite weekend retreat of residents and tourists alike. It hosts Hua Hin Beach, perfect for sunbathing and indulging in water sports. Enrich yourself in the arts, crafts, and local food at the Cicada Market.
Not to miss would be the Hua Hin Railway Station, which is one of the oldest and most beautiful railway stations of the country. Then, there is the Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, a lovely royal residence constructed with teak wood in the reign of King Rama VI.
Chiang Rai: The Tranquil Northern City
Chiang Rai can be found in the northern part of Thailand and is known for its serenity, atmosphere, and temples with a difference. White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is one of the most modernistic and unconventional temples in the world, thus gaining visits from across the globe.
Visit the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), famous for its radiant blue colour and intricate designs. The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, is another major attraction. Chiang Rai offers the peaceful retreat to find the best places in Thailand that are peaceful and spiritual in nature.
Sukhothai: The Ancient Capital
Sukhothai is the first capital of Thailand and is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, granted for its historical significance. Ruins in the city comprise palaces, temples, and city gates that date back to the 13th and 14th centuries, all found within the Sukhothai Historical Park (National Geographics, 2018).
The Wat Mahathat is the largest and perhaps the most impressive temple within the park, containing a large seated Buddha. Explore another ancient city in ruins at the Si Satchanalai Historical Park, equally well-preserved. Sukhothai has captured glimpses of bygone times and is a must-see for history lovers.
Conclusion
From the densely populated cities and cultural towns to serenading beaches and historic attractions, Thailand is indeed a jackpot of diversity. Whether you are the adventurous, relaxation, or cultural type of traveller, Thailand is the country that has all it takes. Experiencing the best places to visit in Thailand will help you know this beautiful country better, leaving you with numerous fond memories of your trip.
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