Top 10 Best things to do in Thailand
Thailand is a land of natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. From the bustling capital city of Bangkok to the peaceful beaches of the Andaman Sea, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this amazing country. In this article, we’ll be sharing the top 10 things to do in Thailand, from visiting iconic landmarks and temples to experiencing the local culture and trying delicious Thai food. So read on to discover the best things to do in Thailand, and start planning your dream vacation today!
- Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok, which is a Buddhist temple and a major attraction in the city. Marvel at the intricate details of the temple’s architecture and the sacred Emerald Buddha statue.
- Explore the Grand Palace, another iconic landmark in Bangkok, which was the official residence of the Kings of Thailand for over 150 years. Admire the beautiful Thai craftsmanship and learn about the history of the royal family.
- Take a trip to Chiang Mai to visit the Doi Suthep Temple, which is located on a mountain overlooking the city and offers breathtaking views. This temple is a sacred site for Buddhists and is a popular destination for tourists.
- Go island hopping in the Andaman Sea and visit some of Thailand’s beautiful beaches, such as Koh Phi Phi or Koh Samui. Relax on the white sandy beaches, go snorkeling in the crystal clear waters, and try some delicious seafood.
- Visit the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, which is a sanctuary for rescued elephants where visitors can observe and interact with the animals. Learn about the elephants’ stories and the work the park does to protect and care for these gentle giants.
- Take a cooking class in Chiang Mai or Bangkok to learn how to prepare traditional Thai dishes. Impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills and bring a taste of Thailand home with you.
- Visit the Jim Thompson House in Bangkok, which is a museum dedicated to the life and work of Jim Thompson, an American who played a major role in reviving the Thai silk industry. Explore the beautiful Thai-style house and learn about the history of Thai silk.
- Go snorkeling or diving in the Similan Islands or the Surin Islands, which are home to a variety of colorful marine life. See beautiful coral reefs and schools of fish up close and have an unforgettable underwater adventure.
- Visit the Ancient City (Muang Boran), which is a huge outdoor museum in the shape of Thailand that features miniature replicas of the country’s most famous temples and landmarks. Learn about the history and culture of Thailand in a fun and interactive way.
- Take a trip to the Damnoen Saduak floating market, which is a popular tourist destination located just outside of Bangkok where visitors can shop for souvenirs and try traditional Thai food. Experience the hustle and bustle of the market and sample some delicious local treats.
Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, also known as Wat Phra Kaew, is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Bangkok. Located within the grounds of the Grand Palace, this Buddhist temple is home to the sacred Emerald Buddha, a highly revered and revered statue carved from a single block of jade.
As you enter the temple, you’ll be struck by the stunning architecture and intricate details of the buildings and decorations. The temple complex is a masterpiece of Thai craftsmanship, with gleaming golden spires and sparkling mosaics adorning the walls and roofs.
As you wander through the temple grounds, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the various shrines and chapels, each with its own unique style and significance. Be sure to visit the Ho Trai, a traditional wooden library that houses ancient scriptures, and the Phra Si Ratana Chedi, a stunning golden stupa that contains holy relics.
But the highlight of any visit to Wat Phra Kaew is undoubtedly the Emerald Buddha itself. The statue, which stands just over a meter tall, is housed in its own shrine and is only visible to the public during certain times of the year. As you stand before the statue, you’ll be struck by its beauty and the sense of peace and serenity it radiates.
Explore the Grand Palace, another iconic landmark in Bangkok
The Grand Palace is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Bangkok. Located in the heart of the city, this iconic landmark was the official residence of the Kings of Thailand for over 150 years and is a testament to the country’s rich history and culture.
As you enter the palace grounds, you’ll be struck by the stunning architecture and intricate details of the buildings and decorations. The palace complex is a masterpiece of Thai craftsmanship, with gleaming golden spires and sparkling mosaics adorning the walls and roofs.
As you wander through the palace grounds, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the various shrines and chapels, each with its own unique style and significance. Be sure to visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is located within the palace grounds and is home to the sacred Emerald Buddha statue.
But the Grand Palace is more than just a collection of beautiful buildings. It’s also a living history museum, with exhibits showcasing the royal family’s role in shaping the country’s history and culture. From the throne room to the royal kitchen, you’ll get a fascinating look at the life of the Thai royal family.
Take a trip to Chiang Mai to visit the Doi Suthep Temple
The Doi Suthep Temple, also known as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Chiang Mai. Located on a mountain overlooking the city, this Buddhist temple offers breathtaking views and is a sacred site for Buddhists.
As you make your way up the mountain, you’ll be struck by the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The temple is located in a lush, forested area, with the city sprawling out below. As you get closer to the temple, you’ll see the gleaming golden spires and intricate details of the temple’s architecture.
As you enter the temple grounds, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the various shrines and chapels, each with its own unique style and significance. Be sure to visit the main temple, which houses a sacred relic of the Buddha, and the Phu Phing Palace, which was built by King Chulalongkorn and is now used as a royal residence.
But the highlight of any visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is undoubtedly the views. From the temple’s vantage point on the mountain, you’ll be able to see for miles in every direction. Whether you visit during the day or at sunset, the views are breathtaking.
Go island hopping in the Andaman Sea
Thailand’s Andaman Sea is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and there’s no better way to experience them than by island hopping. From the white sandy shores of Koh Phi Phi to the crystal clear waters of Koh Samui, there’s an island to suit every taste.
As you make your way from one island to the next, you’ll be struck by the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Andaman Sea is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
But the beaches themselves are the real draw. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, secluded spot to relax or a bustling beach town with plenty of nightlife, you’ll find it in the Andaman Sea. Soak up the sun on the white sandy shores, cool off in the crystal clear waters, and try some delicious seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.
Visit the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai
The Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is a must-see destination for anyone who loves animals. Located just outside of the city, this sanctuary is home to rescued elephants who have been rescued from abuse or neglect.
As you enter the park, you’ll be struck by the peaceful atmosphere and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The park is home to a variety of animals, including not just elephants, but also dogs, cats, buffalo, and more.
As you explore the park, you’ll have the opportunity to observe and interact with the elephants in a way that is both respectful and educational. You’ll learn about the work the park does to protect and care for these gentle giants, and you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with the elephants as you feed them, bathe them, and even take a walk with them through the park.
But the Elephant Nature Park is more than just a place to see animals. It’s also a place to learn about the importance of conservation and the challenges facing elephants in Thailand and around the world. As you spend time at the park, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of these incredible creatures and the work being done to protect them.
Take a cooking class in Chiang Mai or Bangkok
Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. If you’re a foodie looking to learn more about Thai cooking, a cooking class in Chiang Mai or Bangkok is a must-do activity.
As you enter the cooking school, you’ll be struck by the vibrant and colorful surroundings and the tantalizing smells wafting through the air. Your instructor will introduce you to the various ingredients and techniques used in Thai cooking, and you’ll have the opportunity to get hands-on experience preparing a variety of dishes.
You’ll learn how to prepare classic Thai dishes like tom yum soup, green curry, and pad thai, as well as lesser-known dishes like som tam (papaya salad) and gaeng keow wan gai (green chicken curry). You’ll also learn about the different herbs and spices used in Thai cooking, and how to balance the flavors to create a perfectly harmonious dish.
By the end of the class, you’ll have a newfound appreciation for Thai cuisine and the skills to recreate your favorite dishes at home. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills.
Visit the Jim Thompson House in Bangkok
The Jim Thompson House in Bangkok is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Thai art and culture. Located in the heart of the city, this museum is dedicated to the life and work of Jim Thompson, an American who played a major role in reviving the Thai silk industry.
As you enter the house, you’ll be struck by the beautiful Thai-style architecture and the intricate details of the decorations. The house is a masterpiece of Thai craftsmanship, with gleaming golden Buddhas, colorful mosaics, and beautiful antiques adorning every room.
As you explore the house, you’ll learn about the life of Jim Thompson and his contributions to the Thai silk industry. You’ll see displays of his collection of Thai art and artifacts, as well as his personal effects, giving you a glimpse into the life of this fascinating man.
But the Jim Thompson House is more than just a museum. It’s also a beautiful garden oasis in the heart of the city, with lush greenery, beautiful flowers, and tranquil ponds. As you wander through the gardens, you’ll be able to relax and take in the beauty of this special place.
Go snorkeling or diving in the Similan Islands or the Surin Islands
The Similan Islands and the Surin Islands are two of Thailand’s most popular destinations for snorkeling and diving. Located in the Andaman Sea, these islands are home to a variety of colorful marine life and beautiful coral reefs.
As you make your way to the islands, you’ll be struck by the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea are a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
As you explore the islands, you’ll have the chance to see a wide variety of marine life up close, from colorful fish to graceful manta rays. You’ll also have the opportunity to see beautiful coral reefs and learn about the importance of conservation and the challenges facing marine ecosystems around the world.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner looking to try snorkeling for the first time, the Similan Islands and the Surin Islands offer something for everyone. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to explore the beauty of the Andaman Sea.
Visit the Ancient City (Muang Boran)
The Ancient City, also known as Muang Boran, is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Thai history and culture. Located just outside of Bangkok, this huge outdoor museum is shaped like Thailand and features miniature replicas of the country’s most famous temples and landmarks.
As you enter the museum, you’ll be struck by the size and scope of the project. The Ancient City covers over 200 acres and includes over 100 miniature replicas of Thailand’s most famous temples and landmarks. As you wander through the museum, you’ll have the opportunity to see these replicas up close and learn about the history and significance of each one.
In addition to the miniature replicas, the Ancient City also features a number of interactive exhibits and activities. You can take a boat ride through a replica of the ancient city of Ayutthaya, visit a traditional Thai village, and see demonstrations of traditional arts and crafts.
Take a trip to the Damnoen Saduak floating market
The Damnoen Saduak floating market is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Bangkok. Located just outside of the city, this popular tourist destination is a bustling market where visitors can shop for souvenirs, try traditional Thai food, and experience the local culture.
As you approach the market, you’ll be struck by the hustle and bustle of the scene. Vendors in small boats line the canals, selling everything from fresh produce and souvenirs to clothes and household goods. You can hop on a boat and explore the market, or simply walk along the canal and browse the goods on offer.
But the real highlight of the Damnoen Saduak floating market is the food. You’ll find a wide variety of delicious traditional Thai dishes, from spicy curries and stir-fries to sweet desserts. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, like pad thai and mango sticky rice.
We hope this list of the top 10 best things to do in Thailand has given you some inspiration for your next trip. Whether you’re a culture buff, a beach bum, or an adventure seeker, Thailand has something for everyone to enjoy. From the ancient temples and stunning beaches to the delicious food and friendly locals, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences waiting for you in this amazing country. So start planning your trip and get ready to discover all that Thailand has to offer.
