8 Places To Add In Your Must Visit List For Thailand

When travellers think of Thailand, the idea is probably constricted to Bangkok. If you are willing to explore beyond its capital, this country radiates a concoction of flavours such as culture and history, full moon parties, exotic beaches, enticing floating markets, and more. Unpredictably lavish, yet largely wild – there’s a lot to Thailand!
Thailand is a great all-year-round vacation destination mostly because of its tropical climate. Better known as the adventure and party capital in Asia, there are plenty of attractions which Thailand offers to woo the tourists.

Here are the best places to visit to make the most of your vacation in Thailand.

* Koh Tao

Koh Tao, despite being one of the busiest tourist places, still offers one of the most relaxed and dazzling settings in the country. While many travellers make their way to the bigger neighbouring islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, Koh Tao attracts numerous divers and visitors looking for a more tranquil ambiance. The spotless white shores and magnificent, turquoise waters around the island get lit up into a lively colour palette during the sunsets. Koh Tao is one of the best places to plunge yourself into the warm waters for snorkelling or to acquire your diving license. Hikers can explore the coastal jungles and marvel at the beauty of Koh Tao.

* Koh Jum

Koh Jum is one of the last secluded islands in the country and is conveniently situated between Krabi and Ko Lanta Yai.Surrounded by the dazzling blue waters of the ocean, the island’s shores are mostly rocky but a handful of beaches offer spots for sunbathing and a splash. Koh Jum only houses a handful of bars and restaurants and the ambiance generally tends to be more low-key.This place provides a welcome respite and immediately enchants any visitors who are looking for tranquillity.

* Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is widely considered one of the most fascinating northern cities in Thailand and is home to a variety of cultural monuments and natural sights. The city was founded as far back as the seventh century and served as the first capital of the Lanna Kingdom. It is closely located to the Golden Triangle, a border area on the Mekong River where Thailand, Laos, and Burma meet, which was once an important site for the opium trade. Visitors can explore numerous ruins and shrines or embark on a hike through the mountains in search of the remote hill tribe villages. Perhaps the most widely known attraction is Wat Rong Khun, also called the White Temple. Constructed in unconventional and modern designs by the architect Chalermchai Kositpipat, the temple is one of the most dazzling in the country.

* Floating Markets

Bangkok's colourful floating markets are familiar to many through the ubiquitous photos in tourist guides and travel books. Even though transactions are more concerned with tourists rather than locals these days, the floating market boats are still piled high with tropical fruit and vegetables, fresh, ready-to-drink coconut juice and local food cooked from floating kitchens located right on the boat. You can take a guided boat tour of Damnoen Saduak market. Other floating markets to visit are Taling Chan Market, Bang Ku Wiang Market, Tha Kha, and Damnoen Saduak.

* Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are some of the loveliest in Southeast Asia. Classic beaches, stunning rock formations, and vivid turquoise waters teeming with colourful marine life make it a great getaway. There are two islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. The larger and inhabited, Phi Phi Don attracts hundreds of visitors to stay on its lovely shores. For many, Phi Phi Don is the last word in hedonistic nightlife. Starting when the sun sets and lasting throughout the night, the whole village is party central, with its bars, pubs and clubs filled with young and carefree partygoers.

* Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, once considered the world’s most impressive city. The ruins of the ancient site have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be marvelled at in their full glory. Ayutthaya itself was erected upon an island between the Chao Phraya, Pa Sak And Lopburi Rivers.Once serving as the capital of the Thai empire, the city was home to more than 400 temples and other architectural masterpieces. It was finally conquered and destroyed by Burmese invaders in 1767. Due to relentless efforts, the remnants have been largely restored and give visitors an insight into its former grandeur and beauty.

* Phanom Rung

Phanom Rung is probably the most impressive and significant of the Khmer temples that can be found in Thailand. It was restored to its original splendour over the course of 17 years and has recently been under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Site organization. Built on top of a spent volcano during the reign of King Suriyavarman II, it stands as a dazzling symbol of the peak of Angkor architecture. Due to its precise solar alignment, the sun bathes all 15 sanctuary doorways around four times a year. During the April alignment, the complex sets the scene for the impressive Phanom Rung Festival, including traditional Brahmin ceremonies and scenic light shows.

* Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of Thailand’s most significant cultural hubs, housing hundreds of ancient temples. It has its own charm and is particularly popular for outdoor activities such as trekking, rafting or elephant camps. In recent years it has become the home for a large yoga and health community and delights its visitors with a multitude of vegetarian places to eat.Numerous daily and weekend markets sell handmade artefacts and touristy trinkets and street stalls around every corner will allow you to get a taste of authentic Thai food. Make your way up the mountain, home to the city’s most dazzling temple, Doi Suthep, and marvel at the panorama or stroll around the old city and the Ping River.