Thailand, the marvelous home to gorgeous tropical beaches and glistening temples offer enthralling experiences with its exotic escapades. Having an absolute coastal length of 2,815 kilometers, Thailand hosts perfect beach-holidays, however, the experiences of this mystic country are not restricted to leisurely beach-side stays.
Thailand features several distinct geographic regions that make it an ideal destination for wanderers from across the globe. Read on to know the most incredible encounters of Thailand beyond beaches!
10 Best Experiences Of Thailand Beyond Beaches
From friendly interactions to spiritual and adventurous expeditions, the following are the not-to-be-missed experiences of this historic and cultured island, Thailand:
1. Bicycle Tour To The Ancient Ruins Of Sukhothai
If you are looking for the offbeat surprises of Thailand then take a bike tour to the ancient ruins in Sukhothai. Wat Mahathat is the prime attraction of this excursion and its entire complex showcases Buddha statues and chedis. Another highlight of this site is Wat Si Sawai, an ancient Khmer temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Wat Si Chum in the northern zone features an enormous statue of Buddha within a brick enclosure.
Highlights: Buddha statues of Wat Mahathat, Wat Si Sawai – an ancient Khmer temple, Wat Si Chum- the seated statue of Buddha
How to reach: The nearest railway station to Sukhothai is located in the town of Phitsanulok which is nearly 60 kilometers from the former. You can board a train from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok to reach Phitsanulok. The entire train journey will take nearly 7 hours and costs around 400 Baht.
2. Thai Culinary Fiesta Across The Country
Thai cuisine reflects the fundamental aspects of Thai culture. Prepared with fresh and local ingredients, the country offers an array of scrumptious seafood recipes and deliciously blended salads. Bangkok noodle shacks, market stalls in Mae Sot, and Phuket seafood pavilions are known for hosting the most amazing eating tours for the Epicures staying in Thailand.
Highlights: Chicken Satay, Tom Yam Soup with Mushroom, Pad Thai, Thai Green Chicken Curry, Som Tam
3. Enticing Beauty Of Doi Angkhang
Doi Angkhang, also known as the ‘Little Switzerland of Thailand’ is nestled in a serene valley. It is located in the north of Chiang Mai at a distance of about 150 kilometers. This mesmerizing home to enticing beauty remains cool throughout the year. The highest peak is 1,300 meters above sea level and can be easily accessed by car. The place is truly a delightful experience for nature lovers.
Highlights: Natural Scenery, Vast Plantations
How to reach: Doi Angkhang can be reached by road and you can either board a bus or hire a private car. Public transport costs between 80 to 150 Baht.
4. Night Markets Of Chiang Mai
Apart from being known for its impeccable beauty, Chiang Mai hosts fascinating night markets that offer almost everything that a traveler looks for! An evening where you browse, bargain, shop, and grab local delicacies of Thailand at an affordable price. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Sunday Walking Street, and Wualai Walking Street are the most popular night markets of Chiang Mai.
Highlights: Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Sunday Walking Street, and Wualai Walking Street
How to reach: Chiang Mai International Airport welcomes domestic as well as international flights. The airport is located at a distance of 3 kilometers from the city center. You can also board a train from Bangkok’s Hualamphong Train Station to Chiang Mai Station. The train journey will take 13-15 hours.
5. Memorable Overnight Stay In A Floating Tent
How about staying at a luxuriating floating tented camp on a relaxing weekend? Elephant Hills in Thailand hosts exclusive floating camps on Cheow Larn Lake. The serene lake is located in the heart of Khao Sok National Park and serves as a base to explore the tropical rainforest of Southern Thailand.
Highlights: Stay amid nature, jungle safari, ideal for adventure freaks
How to reach: Transfers to Elephant Hills are available from Krabi, Phuket, Phang Nga, Khao Lak, Surat Thani, etc.
6. Trek To A Remote National Park
Thailand comprises numerous nature reserves that are dotted with national parks and wildlife conservation centers. A trekking experience to any of these remote parks will definitely let you breathe Thailand’s natural aura. These hidden gems of the country offer several exciting expeditions including hiking trails, fishing sites, emerald pools, etc. that rejuvenate your senses.
Highlights: Namtok Phlio National Park, Khao Yai National Park, Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam
7. Lively Streets Of Bangkok City
The sprawling metropolis, Bangkok, also the capital city of Thailand has a popular party culture. Several popular streets offer exciting experiences, be it drinking, dancing or partying all-night. These lively streets make Bangkok a fun, lively, and vibrant destination. From unbelievable shopping deals to pocket-friendly stays, the streets of Bangkok city are one of its kinds in the world!
Highlights: Thonglor, Ekkamai, Soi Rambuttri, Silom Road
How to reach: Bangkok International Airports are well-connected to the other parts of the world
8. Magnificent Temples Of Chiang Mai
The famous Chiang Mai region of Thailand is known for its epic historical stories. These stories of the bygone era are today beautifully sung by the temples and wats of Chiang Mai. The temples serve as a place of faith and also act as a center for schools and hospitals. There are over 300 temples spread throughout the city and the countryside. Most of these temples are of the ‘Lanna’ style, from the 13th to 18th centuries, characterized by curved wooden roofs.
Highlights: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh
How to reach: Chiang Mai International Airport welcomes domestic as well as international flights. The airport is located at a distance of 3 kilometers from the city center. You can also board a train from Bangkok’s Hualamphong Train Station to Chiang Mai Station. The train journey will take 13-15 hours.
9. Wild Adventures Of Khao Sok National Park
Nature welcomes you with open arms once you set foot in the ever beautiful Khao Sok National Park of Thailand. Situated within the oldest evergreen rainforest of the world, the park also has mammoth limestone mountains, gorgeous valleys, dark caves, and breathtaking lakes. You can take an elephant safari, go on a hiking trail, or kayak over the mesmerizing Sok river.
Highlights: Cheow Lan Lake, Sok River, Diamond Caves
How to reach: Surat Thani Airport is the nearest airport to the national park. Trains to Surat Thani remain busy and advance booking is recommended.
10. Sacred Spaces And Cultural Celebrations
The esteemed culture of Thailand is a captivating experience that will forever stay in your diary. Indulging in local rituals and cultural colors of the festivals and celebrations is as important as tasting Thai street food while staying in the country. Thailand has many cool, crazy, and vibrant festival celebrations that offer an invigorating experience to anyone visiting the country.
Highlights: Songkran Water Festival, Lantern Festival, Rocket Festival, Loi Krathong festival
Further Read: 53 Tourist Places In Thailand That You May Have Ignored Before
Thailand, an amazing home away from home is certainly one of the most beautiful places in the world. The island features an array of awesome experiences that makes your vacation an unforgettable memory of a lifetime! Plan your future trips and enjoy exotic encounters of Thailand beyond beaches.
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Sakshi Awasthi, an ardent traveler by heart is a Research Scholar from the University of Delhi. Unveiling the untold story of historical sites and encountering the impeccable beauty of nature, turned her to be a Travel Blogger. Currently, working as a Senior Content Writer with TravelTriangle.
