If you’re anything like us, then you’re constantly thinking about your next great escape. You’re looking for the best tour and flight deals, and creating your budgeting spreadsheet as we speak. But before you dive headfirst into hours of research, we took it upon ourselves to remind you why no matter your travel style, budget, or bucket list, Thailand is one destination you absolutely can’t miss.
Check out 21 of the most jaw-dropping destinations in Thailand that you need to discover this year.
1. Wat Pha Sorn Kaew
Nestled in north-central Thailand lies Wat Pia Sohn Knew (also known as Wat Phra Thart Pha Kaew). Located five hours outside of Bangkok, this mountaintop Buddhist monastery and temple deserve a spot on any Thai bucket list.
2. Koh Samui
No trip to Thailand is complete without feasting your eyes on the beauty that is Koh Samui. Thailand’s second-largest island, best known for its pristine beaches, mountainous rainforests, and coconut groves, Koh Samui will definitely not disappoint.
3. Chiang Mai
Quintessentially Thai, Chiang Mai is not to be overlooked. Home to temples galore and located in northern Thailand, this former ancient capital maintains its old-world charm, beckoning seasoned and novice travellers alike.
4. Railay Beach
Accessible only by boat, Railay Beach is a traveller favourite, and for obvious reasons. The limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea make Railay Beach an irresistible must-add to any trip, no matter your travel style. I mean, just look at it.
5. Wat Pho
When you think of Thailand, chances are that images of the many lavish Buddhist temples that dot the landscape come to mind. If you can’t get enough of them, Wat Pho is the place for you. Home to the sacred 46-metre Reclining Buddha, as well as thousands of ornate and symmetrical cravings, Wat Pho continues to lure travellers the world over with its breathtaking beauty.
6. Bangkok
From a bustling nightlife to awe-inspiring palaces and everything in between, there truly is no place like Bangkok. A visit to the Thai capital will have even the most skeptical of travellers wishing they extended their trip.
7. Wat Phra Kaew
When it comes to important (and gorgeous) Thai temples, Wat Phra Kaew takes the cake. Known in English as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Kaew is one of the most important temples in all of Thailand. Embossed in gold and dripping with history, Wat Phra Kaew is an absolutely unmissable site when in Thailand.
8. Ayutthaya
If you were looking for a UNESCO World Heritage Site to add to your Thai must-see list, we’ve got just the thing for you. Nestled between 3 rivers on an island 80 kilometres north of Bangkok lies the once prosperous trading port of Ayutthaya. Today, Ayutthaya Historical Park is home to countless palaces, Buddhist temples, monasteries, and ornate statues that will make you feel like you’re walking through history.
9. The Grand Palace
Located in the heart of Bangkok is the Grand Palace. As its name suggests, this former royal abode is not only one of the oldest collections of buildings in Thailand, but also one of the most historically important and culturally significant sites in Thailand. If you’re looking for an escape fit for a royal, then the Grand Palace is the place to be.
10. Khao Phing Kan (aka “James Bond Island”)
What do you get when you take Thailand’s incredible larger-than-life limestone towers and add a splash of intrigue? Well, you get the iconic James Bond Island! A known bucket-list-topper for film enthusiasts and adventure lovers alike, this breathtaking Thai island had a starring role in the 1974 Bond flick, ‘The Man With The Golden Gun’. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or not, this island is sure to please.
11. Khao Sok National Park
If you’ve ever Google image searched ‘Thailand,’ chances are that you’ve come across a photo of Khao Sok National Park. Nestled in southern Thailand, this beautiful nature reserve gives a new definition to the word breathtaking. Home to dense jungles, man-made lakes, and tigers (yes, tigers), this national park is truly unlike any other in the world. Are you ready to step into the wilderness?
12. Wat Arun
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan (or Wat Arun as it’s more commonly known as) is one of Thailand’s most-famous and most-photographed Buddhist temples. Though Wat Arun is a mere 2 kilometres from central Bangkok, this stunning and ornate temple will make you feel as though you’ve been transported to a whole other world.
13. Krabi
Turquoise waters and impressive beaches are just two of the many reasons travellers flock to Krabi year after year – and if you’ve ever taken a good look at the island, you’ll immediately know why. Located on Thailand’s southwest coast, this picturesque town is known to lure travellers in and keep them coming back for more.
14. Phi Phi Island
Though this island really needs no introduction, we’ve gone ahead and given it one. The Phi Phi Islands, aka Thailand’s island-superstar, is one for the books. Just a few miles from Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands embody everything we love about Thailand: pristine white sand beaches, limestone cliffs, and, of course, a touch of Hollywood glamour!
15. Paradise Beach
If you’re looking for the best beach in Phuket, look no further than the one with ‘paradise’ in its name. Yes, Paradise Beach is real. Just under 200 metres long, this palm tree-lined shore will have you feeling like you’ve entered another realm. If you’re looking for paradise, we’ve got the beach for you!
16. Similan Islands
If you were to hop in a boat from Thailand’s Phang Nga Province, you’d likely come across the Similan Islands. Located in the Andaman Sea, the Similan Islands are home to stunning rock formations and awe-inspiring coral reefs that are sure to leave you with enough travel inspiration to last a lifetime.
17. Maya Beach
Calling all DiCaprio enthusiasts, this one for you! Maya Beach is probably one of the most iconic beaches in all of Asia, dare I say the world? Though ‘the beach’ is occasionally closed for maintenance (thanks to the 5,000 plus visitors that make the trip each day), Maya Beach is a definite must-see for all travellers.
18. Hong Island, Phuket
Hong Island is known for three things: hidden lagoons, white sand beaches, and views that will take your breath away. A popular day-trip destination from Phuket, this island has long been a traveller favourite. From spectacular coral reefs that will make you wish you had gills, to boat trips and water sports you’ll remember forever, Hong Island is worth the visit.
19. Phang Nga Bay
In true Thai character, Ao Phang Nga National Park is absolutely stunning. Epitomizing everything we know and love about Thailand, Phang Nga Bay will not disappoint. From the towering limestone cliffs and striking rock formations, to the mangrove forests, caves, and lagoons that dot the bay, you’re not going to want to miss out on this one.
20. The caves of Thailand
You know you’re in Thailand when you see caves everywhere you turn. Carved into the landscape, caves are a must add to any Thai itinerary. (Note: be sure to check your surroundings, weather conditions, and go with a trained guide.)
21. The Forests of Thailand
If there’s one thing Thailand is known for, it’s its awe-inspiring nature. No matter where you go in the country, you likely won’t be far from a forest of some kind. Thailand’s lush rainforests and rugged nature make this country a top destination for travellers of all ages and travel styles.
Visiting Thailand is at the top of countless bucket lists, and why shouldn’t it be? Locals and tourists alike agree that it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world, and we hope we’ve been able to prove it. Is Thailand next on your list? Did we miss your favourite spot? Let us know!
