Things to see in Thailand

Thailand is a treasure trove of wonders waiting to be discovered!

What should you see in this captivating country?

Here, you can experience a stunning archipelago, bustling cities, and a rich culture.

We have compiled a list of 15 things to see in Thailand.

Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital, is a city that never sleeps.

The city is renowned for its mix of modern skyscrapers, historic temples, and lively markets, offering a unique experience for all visitors. Here, you can explore iconic attractions such as the Grand Palace, the temples Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun, and the bustling Chatuchak Weekend Market.

With its delicious street food and world-famous restaurants, Bangkok is also a paradise for food lovers.

A tour of Thailand is (almost) incomplete without a visit to Bangkok, whose culture, history, and exciting sights make it one of the most visited cities in the world.

The Death Railway and River Kwai

In Kanchanaburi, located slightly northwest of Bangkok, you will find two of Thailand’s historically significant sites: The Death Railway and River Kwai.

The railway, officially known as the Thailand-Burma Railway, was built during World War II by prisoners of war and forced laborers working under brutal conditions, giving the bridge its grim name. Visitors can explore Hellfire Pass and the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery to learn more about this tragic period.

At the River Kwai, you’ll find the famous bridge immortalized in the film “The Bridge on the River Kwai.” The area offers a combination of history and beautiful landscapes, where you can take boat trips, visit museums, and explore historical events.

Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park is one of Thailand’s oldest and most well-preserved national parks.

Located in the Surat Thani province in southern Thailand, the park features a unique combination of rainforest, limestone cliffs, and rivers.

Here, visitors can go on guided hikes, sail on Cheow Lan Lake, and experience the rich wildlife, which includes elephants, tapirs, and about 400 different bird species.

The park is an ideal place for nature lovers who want to explore Thailand’s diverse flora and fauna in breathtaking surroundings.

Thailand’s Temples

Temples in Thailand, known as “wats,” play a central role in the country’s culture and religion. There are actually more than 40,000 temples in Thailand, with 30,000 still in use today.

Thailand’s temples vary in style and size, from small village temples to large, historic complexes. One of the most famous temples is Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It is located in the magnificent Grand Palace and is home to the famous Emerald Buddha statue.

Further north, in Chiang Mai, you will find Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, situated on a mountaintop offering a fantastic view of the city. This temple is an important pilgrimage site and is known for its golden stupa.

In Chiang Rai, there is Wat Rong Khun, or the White Temple, built by local artist Charlermchai Kositmchai in 1997, which has a fairy-tale appearance.

The Thai Islands

Thailand’s islands are known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.

Each island has its own unique charm and attracts different types of travelers. Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is known for its lively beach towns; Koh Samui offers beautiful beaches and the opportunity to explore other exciting attractions, such as the Big Buddha Temple; and Koh Ngai is a small uninhabited island perfect for completely unwinding.

Thailand’s islands offer something for everyone – whether you want to combine your island adventure with lively cities or simply enjoy some quiet days by the water.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a historic city north of Bangkok, which served as the capital of the Siamese Kingdom from 1350 to 1767.

The city is known for its impressive ruins and archaeological wonders, collected in the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors can explore ancient temples like Wat Mahathat, where the iconic Buddha head is embedded in tree roots, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram with its majestic towers.

Ayutthaya offers a fascinating insight into Thailand’s rich history and culture and is a must-see for history enthusiasts and culture lovers.

Thai Food

Thai food is known worldwide for its flavourful and aromatic blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.

A visit is not complete without delving into the local food culture, characterized by freshness and the use of local ingredients such as lemongrass, galangal, coconut milk, and various herbs.

Traditional dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, and green curry are loved both locally and internationally.

Street food is a crucial part of the food culture, and you can find a wide variety of dishes at the many food markets and street stalls around the country’s cities.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, located in the mountainous northern region of Thailand, is the country’s second-largest city and is known for its relaxed atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

The city was the second capital of the Lanna Kingdom between 1296 and 1558, when it fell and was taken over by neighboring Myanmar. However, the Siamese King Taksin drove Myanmar out of Chiang Mai in 1774, and the city has been part of Thailand ever since. There is thus much history to explore when you visit Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai offers some exciting attractions and is famous for historic temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, offering a fantastic view of the city from its mountaintop, and Wat Chedi Luang, located in the heart of the old town.

Chiang Mai is also a center for traditional crafts and markets, including the popular night market and Sunday market, where you can find locally produced goods and souvenirs.

The city is an ideal starting point for adventures in nature, with opportunities for trekking, visiting the fascinating elephant sanctuary Changchill, and exploring nearby mountain villages.

With its mix of traditional culture and beautiful surroundings, Chiang Mai is a unique destination that attracts both culture and nature enthusiasts.

Changchill Elephant Sanctuary

Changchill in Chiang Mai is an elephant sanctuary focused on ethical animal experiences.

Since 2007, the sanctuary has operated as a fully elephant-friendly reserve with support from World Animal Protection. The place is dedicated to giving elephants a life as close to their natural state as possible.

Instead of riding the elephants or watching them perform, visitors have the opportunity to observe them from a distance in their natural habitat.

Changchill focuses on educating visitors about elephant behavior and conservation through guided tours and informative presentations.

Thai Markets

Markets in Thailand are lively and colorful places where both locals and visitors can find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to clothing, crafts, and street food.

Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok is one of the world’s largest markets with thousands of stalls selling a wide range of goods.

You can also experience night markets like the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, popular for their unique atmosphere and offering a wealth of food, souvenirs, and local crafts.

Floating markets, such as Damnoen Saduak or Tha Kha, located about 100 km west of Bangkok, also provide a unique experience, with traders selling their goods from boats on the canals. These markets are a significant part of the national culture, offering an authentic insight into daily life in Thailand.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, located in northern Thailand north of Chiang Mai, is known for its unique temples and beautiful surroundings.

The city was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai and was the first capital of the Lanna Kingdom until 1296, when Chiang Mai became the capital.

The city is known for its stunning temples, such as the aforementioned White Temple, Wat Rong Khun, famous for its modern, fairy-tale architecture and detailed artworks, and the Blue Temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten, with its beautiful blue hues and intricate designs. Chiang Rai is also a hub for exploring the Golden Triangle, where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar, offering insights into the area’s history and culture.

Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park is one of Thailand’s most visited national parks, located about 200 km northeast of Bangkok.

The park covers an area of over 2,000 square kilometers and offers varied nature with dense rainforests, grasslands, and impressive waterfalls like Haew Narok and Haew Suwat.

Khao Yai is home to rich wildlife, including elephants, monitor lizards, snakes, gibbons, and many bird species.

Visitors can enjoy hikes, wildlife observations, and stunning views from several viewpoints. The park is also known for its many hiking trails, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is one of Thailand’s most significant historical cities and was the first capital of the first independent Thai kingdom in the 13th century.

The city’s main attraction is Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visitors can explore a range of well-preserved ruins, including majestic temples and Buddha statues like Wat Mahathat and Wat Si Chum.

Sukhothai offers a unique opportunity to delve into Thailand’s early history and experience the cultural heritage up close.

The park is also spread over a large area with beautiful gardens and lakes, making it ideal for cycling tours if you want a more active holiday.

Songkran Festival

The Songkran Festival is Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration, taking place every year from April 13th to 15th.

The festival is famous for its lively water fights, where both locals and visitors splash water on each other as a symbol of cleansing and new beginnings.

In addition to the water fights, the celebration includes religious ceremonies where people visit temples to pray and participate in rituals such as pouring water over Buddha statues and elderly relatives to show respect.

Songkran is a festive and colorful event that embodies joy and cultural tradition, making it a unique experience for anyone visiting Thailand during this time.

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller