Things to Do in Thailand

This is an obvious one. Thailand has over 300 islands, and most of them are tourist attractions. So, if you are going to Thailand, make sure to visit some of the popular islands and find new beaches and bays in longtail boats. You can also rent a Kayak and tour through the karst formations, coves, and beaches at your own pace, away from the masses of tourist boats and passenger ferries.
Here are the most beautiful islands in Thailand that you can visit.

A trip to Thailand would be incomplete without getting a Thai massage. Thai massages are unique and famous all over the world for inculcating yogic and natural practices and elements for healing and rejuvenation. A massage includes a variety of postures and stretches with even the masseuse walking on your back too. The aim of these massages is to relieve you of any physical and mental stress.

Travelers from all over the world travel to the beaches of Koh Phangan to celebrate the full moon with a blast. It is said that a group of tourists first realized that from the beaches of Koh Phangan, the most beautiful view of the full moon could be seen. And to celebrate the view, they threw a party. And over time, it became a tradition. Today, these parties are full of lights, colors, music, dance, and nonstop alcohol. And if you’re tired of dancing, go for a swim in the warm water of the sea or relax in the surrounding bar.

Thailand is famous for its night markets. Almost all the cities in Thailand have night markets. Locals line up across alleys and roads, shouting out prices and reeling you in with their amazing salesmanship and local products. These markets are a great place to get a glimpse of local culture, foods, live music, and souvenirs.

If you came to Thailand and didn’t go for a dive, trust us, you are missing out big time. Thailand is heaven for divers, be it snorkeling or scuba diving. Almost every island has dive centers and diving schools. You can get PADI certification here also. Some of the best diving centers are Ko Lanta, Similan Island, Ko Tao, and Ko Pha Ngan.

Want to get a feel of Venice? Thailand has got you covered. The floating markets of Thailand, especially those in and around Bangkok, adorn many magazine covers and posters, regarded as an iconic representation of the country. These markets along canals are mostly jam-packed with slender boats brimming with fresh produce, fruits, souvenirs, and even food. These tightly packed waterways, filled with slender boats laden with colorful fruits, vegetables, delectable Thai street (canal) food, and tourist knick-knacks, are helmed by mostly smiling women with their woven hats.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Khao Yai National Park is Thailand's oldest and most visited national park.  It covers more than 2,100 square kilometers and boasts a lush green landscape, rugged mountains with thick forests, marvelous waterfalls, and exotic species of birds and animals. Being the third largest park in the country, Khao Yai National Park is spread across four territories, including Nakhon Nayok, Saraburi, Prachinburi, and Nakhon Ratchasima. There are over 300 species of birds, as well as bears, deer, elephants, gibbons, and macaques.

Exotic cocktails, succulent food, magnificent views of the city’s skyline, and the metropolis define the renowned sky bars of Bangkok. Most rooftop bars are free to enter, have happy hours, and offer running to budget the affair. Most of these sky bars are located at the apex of the skyscrapers of popular hotels in the Thai city, and tourists worldwide especially visit the city to experience it during different times of the day.

An integral part of Thai culture, Muay Thai or Thai boxing is a form of martial art that emphasizes the use of punches and kicks. Be sure to watch an exhibition of traditional fighters having a go at each other, showcasing why this traditional art form is one of the deadliest and most refined in the world.

With their pristine waters and vibrant parties, Phi Phi islands are a wonderful way to spend a few days in Thailand. Its striking cliffs, white sand beaches with jungles, and clear blue waters make it look nothing short of paradise. Though many people visit Phi Phi on a day trip from Phuket, Krabi, and other nearby islands, there are some beautiful resorts to stay in Phi Phi. Resorts in Phi Phi are generally spread along Central Area, Laem Thong, Long Beach, and Phi Phi East Coast, each with a different vibe.

The White Temple, also renowned as Wat Rong Khun, is the most popular attraction in Chiang Rai. It is a privately owned art exhibit in the form of a temple, beautifully depicting the Buddhist teachings of karma, hell, heaven, and earthly sins. An architectural wonder in its own right, this temple is filled with many Buddhist elements in its architecture, mirror decorations, and ornate reliefs. Visitors can enter the main building, or ubosot, after crossing a bridge from the temple entrance.

Embark on a vibrant shopping adventure in Thailand, where bustling markets and lively streets beckon with unique souvenirs and treasures. Explore the iconic floating markets of Damnoen Saduak or Amphawa, where vendors ply their goods from traditional wooden boats laden with colorful fruits, handicrafts, and local delicacies. Wander through the bustling lanes of Bangkok's Chatuchak Weekend Market, Asia's largest outdoor market, offering everything from clothing and accessories to handmade crafts and exotic pets. Discover the artistic wonders of Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar, where you can haggle for exquisite handwoven textiles, intricate wood carvings, and hill tribe artifacts. Some popular souvenirs include Thai Silk, Thai spices, Thai Spa Products, Soap Carvings, and Handmade Bags, amongst others.

Tuk-Tuk - Thailand's automated rickshaw is another popular magazine cover staple. Found throughout the country, they are a cheaper mode of transport than taxis. You can't miss riding on one while getting from one place to another as it makes for great photographs and fun conversations with the driver, and saves money too!!

Located at the heart of Bangkok, the Grand Palace is a beautiful gold-tipped series of buildings and probably one of the most famous attractions in Thailand. The official ceremonial residence of the Royal family, it houses Wat Phra Kaew, an important Buddhist temple that houses the Emerald Buddha. At night, the lights of Grand Place put on a show for the visitors. There are also museums and souvenir shops which cater to tourists.

Phang Nga Bay, also known as Ao Phangnga, is a group of 42 islands between the Malay peninsula of Thailand and Phuket. Spread over 400 square miles, it is a picturesque location known for archaeological sites of limestone caves and cliffs, mangrove forests, beds of seagrass, and numerous species of flora and fauna, including the endangered Malaysian plover. It is popularly known for the legendary spy character of Hollywood movies, James Bond. It is also a popular kayaking site.

Are you looking for an experience in Thailand to last a lifetime? Literally? Get a Sak Yant Tattoo. Sak Yant Tattoos are traditional tattoos done by monks with heated metal rods. The tattoos are believed to be blessed, protect their bearers from ill health and injuries, and bring forth spiritual well-being and good luck. You can get safe Sak Yant tattoos in major cities like Bangkok, Chaing Mai, Chiang Rai, Ayutthaya, and Sukhothai.

The best way to explore Thai delicacies is to take a street food tour in the markets. They offer a ton of tasty and affordable dishes, along with wonderful hospitality as well. Ranging from savory to sweet, every dish in Thailand has something unique in its make.
Read about the Street Food in Thailand and about the many Dishes across Thailand which you will likely come across.

Nestled high up on the famous peak of Phuket above Chalong Bay, the 45-meter-high Big Buddha or Ming Mongkol is one of the tallest statues in Thailand. It is located on Nakkerd Hill, less than 10 km from Kata, and is accessible by a 6km long uphill road. The view from the top is breathtaking. If the visit is well-timed, you will also be treated to a fabulous sunset.

Coral Island, also known as Ko Hey, is a small island in Rawai southeast of the mainland of Phuket. Blessed by coral reefs and blue waters, the island has vibrant tropical fishes, making it perfect for snorkeling and diving. The island has two white sand beaches, a long beach, and a banana beach, and it is open all year long. It is a 15-minute speedboat ride from Chalong Pier.

Songkran is the traditional new year in Thailand, and it's celebrated in April. The festival partakes in the world's largest squirt gunfight. Traditionally, water was sprinkled to wash away bad luck and sins, but now it has become a huge water fight and brings entire cities and towns together. This is literally the 'coolest' (pun intended) thing you can experience in Thailand in the month of April.

Thailand's cabaret shows stand out from regular cabaret shows around the world. The performers are ladyboys who are an accepted part of society and Thai culture. From elegant dances, songs, and whirling acrobatics, these shows have it all.
The Tiffany's Cabaret Show in Pattaya and Simon's Show in Phuket are two of the most attended cabaret shows in all of Thailand.

The king of markets in Bangkok, and the world's largest weekend markets, Chatuchak is spread over 35 acres with over 15,000 stalls. Also known as JJ Market is divided into 27 sections from clothing, accessories, handicrafts, furniture, art, food, books, antiques, and much more. Chatuchak Market is divided into 27 sections (each intended to sell a different kind of product, although these sections often overlap). These sections cross 65 small lanes from the main walkway encircling the market. These small lanes are numbered Soi 1, Soi 2, and so on.

After Leonardo Dicaprio's 'The Beach', Koh Phi Phi Leh became famous among international tourists. It's a stunning island located close to Krabi and Phuket and a must-visit on any trip to Thailand. The small cluster of islands has many amazing beaches and shallow lagoons surrounded by limestone cliffs. If you are planning to visit the Phi Phi Islands, try renting a longtail boat, and visit really early in the morning because the place gets packed up as the day proceeds.

Known For : Ayutthaya Historical Park Wat Mahathat Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Ayutthaya, short for Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, is a small city in Thailand containing archaeological sites like temples, monasteries, palaces, etc. It lies just 80 kilometers north of Bangkok and is an ideal destination for a day trip from Bangkok. Ayutthaya offers a lot of Wats and monasteries like Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, and many more.

Best Time: November to February

58 Ayutthaya Attractions

Embark on an exhilarating rock climbing adventure in Thailand, where limestone cliffs and breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for adrenaline-fueled escapades. Head to Railay Beach in Krabi, a mecca for rock climbers worldwide, with its iconic towering karsts and world-class climbing routes suitable for all skill levels. Explore the limestone cliffs of Ton Sai, offering a laid-back vibe and diverse climbing routes amidst lush jungle surroundings. Dive into the vibrant climbing community of Chiang Mai, where the limestone crags of Crazy Horse Buttress and the picturesque Mae On Valley await eager climbers with their diverse terrain and stunning vistas.

The Durian fruit has been named the stinkiest fruit in the world. Its smell is so overpowering it has been banned in many buildings, hotels, and taxis. But despite its strong odor, this fruit is widely consumed as a delicacy in Thailand. It doesn't taste the way it smells. Once you chop through the spiky outer shell, the durian is a soft, creamy delight that comes straight from heaven.

If you are looking for a place to get a kick of adrenaline and feed the adventurous soul, the abandoned skyscraper ‘Sathorn Unique’ tower is the perfect place for you. It is located at the heart of Bangkok and was left incomplete due to the global financial crisis. Climbing this 49 storied abandoned building is not easy and not for the faint-hearted. But from the top, you’ll get the most breathtaking views of Bangkok. It’s not an official tourist attraction, but a small payment to the security guards can ensure you are allowed access.

You've probably seen this one on the internet or on television. Maeklong Train Market is unlike any other market in Thailand. A train literally comes through the market. And you will know when the train is coming because the vendors will start to pack their stuff from the rail track. It's crazy to watch. What's more impressive is how fast the vendors unpack their stuff and get back in business.

The Golden Triangle is a mountainous area where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. The Thai part of the Golden Triangle is located in the northern part of the country and draws travelers looking for a place closer to nature. It is often visited as a day trip from Chiang Rai, often as part of guided bus tours. It is particularly famous for its scenic surroundings with rice paddy fields, tribal villages, the confluence perfect for riverboat rides, and mystical mountains in the background.

A great way to know more about cuisine is to know how it is made. There are many Thai cooking classes that introduce you to the cuisine in the best way possible, right from finding and selecting the right and high-quality ingredients from the local markets to cooking special delicacies at your own cooking station. With skilled instructors give special attention to each student and make your experience unforgettable by creating dishes from scratch.

With its long, luxurious coastline and rich underwater life and corals, snorkeling is one of the top things to do in Thailand. Both to the south, with the Gulf of Thailand, and to the west, along the Andaman Sea, there are numerous snorkeling spots to choose from, like Surin Islands, Similan Islands, Racha, and Coral Islands, among others. There is an abundance of marine life found in these areas - snorkelers can often swim with turtles and manta rays. In addition to corals and anemones, people often spot a variety of interesting marine life here, including turtles, leopard fish, and even whale sharks!

Sea Life Bangkok is an underground aquarium located inside the Siam Paragon Mall. It is the largest Southeast Asian aquarium, sprawling over 110,000 sq. ft., and home to various marine life retrieved from the world's remotest corners. The aquarium houses octopuses, sharks, crabs, penguins, and fish species.

The river of kings, Chao Phraya River, is Thailand's prime river and waterway, used by an average of 50,000 commuters daily. The river stretches over 370 kilometers, and a cruise is a great way to enjoy Bangkok's view. Group and private cruise tours are available starting for TBH 2200, including a meal. You can also opt for a ferry ride across the river.

The Doi Inthanon National Park is situated at the top of Doi Inthanonmountain. It is famous for its spectacular views, waterfalls, hiking trails, sunrise/sunset points, and quaint villages. It is one of the best places for birdwatching in Thailand, with more than 350 different bird species here. It also has a campsite.

Embark on a thrilling white water rafting expedition in Thailand, where pristine rivers and lush jungles provide the perfect setting for adrenaline-pumping adventures. Head to the picturesque Mae Taeng River near Chiang Mai, renowned for its exhilarating rapids and stunning natural scenery. Navigate through Class III and IV rapids. Explore the untamed beauty of the Kaeng Hin Phoeng Rapids in Khao Sok National Park. For a unique rafting experience, venture to the Phang Nga Province and conquer the turbulent waters of the Song Phraek River,

Falling under the Surat Thani province of Thailand, it is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Rich and diverse in flora and fauna, the park is one of the best places to witness rare species such as the Rafflesia flower, hornbill birds, gibbons, and tigers. Punctuated by limestone cliffs, mountains, splendid sandstone, and mudstone rocks, this is the wettest part of Thailand.

Best Time: June to September

The caves in Thailand are among the country's many prized landscapes. While some are vast, others are narrow. Some house olden temples, while some boast hidden flora and lush vegetation. You could either trek and slide your way through the rocks and between crevices to reach some caves while some have rivers flowing through them on which you could enjoy a leisurely boat ride.

The Loi Krathong Festival is one of the most exuberant festivals celebrated in Thailand. The celebrations are a national event in Thailand, and it is sometimes referred to as the 'festival of lights'. It takes place on a full moon evening of the twelfth month, according to the Thai lunar calendar. The date changes every year, but it usually occurs in October or November, according to the Western calendar. The exact date is usually announced a month in advance.

Surfing in Thailand is gaining popularity, particularly on the west coast in the Andaman Sea, where some of the best surf spots can be found. While it may not be as famous as surfing destinations like Bali or Hawaii, Thailand offers excellent waves, warm waters, and beautiful scenery for surf enthusiasts. Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, and Koh Lanta are the top surfing places in Thailand.

Originating from Tibet, the Karen Hill Tribe, residing in the villages of Chiang Mai, are the largest ethnic minority group in Thailand. Comprising four subgroups, each with its own language, attire, and traditions, they are among the popular tourist tours in Chiang Mai. The most prominent among the subgroups of the Karen Hill Tribes are the Long Necks, famous for the women wearing brass rings around their necks.

Visakha Bucha Day, also spelled as Vesak or Vesakha, is one of the most important Buddhist holidays in Thailand. It is a public holiday and falls on the full moon of the sixth lunar month, thus usually taking place in May or June. Visakha Bucha Day commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Lord Buddha. The country is swept in a peaceful wave of religious fervor, with local temples conducting various rituals and sermons. Tourists are also allowed to visit some of the temples to soak in the spiritual aura of the monks and locals.

Kitesurfing, known as kiteboarding, is a popular form of water sports in Thailand. Known for the speed and feeling of exhilaration experienced, the sport involves being pulled by a specially designed kite as you ride along the ocean on a modified surfboard. Kitesurfing initially became popular on the island of Phuket in Thailand and slowly spread to other parts of the country. Today, one can participate in this watersport on several beaches and islands in Thailand, including Koh Pha Ngan, Krabi, Chumphon, Koh Samui, and Koh Chang.

Embark on the ultimate adventure of a lifetime with skydiving in Thailand, offering breathtaking aerial views and adrenaline-pumping thrills against stunning landscapes. Head to Pattaya, where experienced instructors and state-of-the-art facilities await to guide you through a tandem skydiving experience over the sparkling Gulf of Thailand. For a truly unforgettable skydiving experience, venture to the island paradise of Phuket. You can also enjoy skydiving in Hua Hin, which is known for its unique drop zone with beach landings.