Visiting Thailand is something you’ll remember forever. Make your trip perfect by hitting these 7 Thailand attractions that’ll knock your socks off.
Did you know that U.S. News listed 3 Thailand locations in its list of top 10 places to visit in Asia this year? No doubt about it: Thailand is a hot travel destination. There’s so much to see that if you’re planning on going, you’re going to need to do your research. Visit Fun over 50 Holidays if you are interested in senior holiday tours.
Luckily, we’ve done some of it for you! Here are the top 7 amazing Thailand attractions to make sure your vacation is unforgettable.
Know Before You Go
If you’re planning on going to Thailand, you’re obviously going to need a passport, but what about the other requirements? For most countries, you won’t need a visit for under 30 days. Check out this guide on passport and visa requirements.
If you want to stay for more than a month, you will need a visa. But the good news is once you’re there if you decide you want to stay (and you’re from the UK), British passport renewal Thailand is easy!
1. Ethical Thailand Attractions: Support an Elephant Sanctuary
Elephants and Thailand go hand-in-hand. But if you truly love elephants, you’ll want to be sure to visit them in an ethical way. For an unforgettable experience, visit an elephant rescue park.
Chiang Mai’s Elephant Nature Park is the best of Thailand’s sanctuaries. Here, you can feed and bathe the elephants, and each elephant’s personal history is presented. And you can take solace knowing that you’re supporting an organization that rescues and retires mistreated elephants.
If you’re in Sukhothai, consider going to Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary, which is an overnight experience. You’ll help take care of elephants undergoing rehabilitation. This unique experience allows you to see what sanctuary life is all about.
Avoid places that allow riding elephants – the creatures at those locations are almost certainly being mistreated. Here’s a list of the best ethical sanctuaries around the country.
2. Grand Palace
This is the most famous of all Thailand attractions. It is located in Bangkok, and for 150 years it was the home to the king, the Thai government, and the Royal Mint.
At a size of over 200,000 square meters, the Grand Palace is actually a complex of buildings. The temples within are beautifully painted in gold and white.
Note that there is a strict modest dress code (long pants and shirts, as well as socks with any shoes). If you don’t follow the dress code properly, you likely won’t be admitted.
3. Visit a Market in Bangkok
Have you ever heard of a floating market? These should be at the top of your list of things to see in Thailand. These amazing markets have you travel on boats up and down canals to purchase various foods and fruits.
There are several floating markets near Bangkok, the most popular of which is the Damnoen Saduak floating market. Located 100 km outside of the city, this colorful market features narrow canals and tiny stilt homes.
If you prefer a typical market that has unique wares, try the Chatuchak Weekend Market instead. It has over 15,000 stalls selling live animals, handmade art, and vintage clothes. It’s the most iconic market in the city of Bangkok.
4. Doi Suthep
There are more than 40,000 temples in Thailand, so knowing which ones are a must-see can be difficult. If you have to choose just one, Doi Suthep is the best of Thailand. This temple in Chiang Mai is on top of a mountain over 1,500 meters tall.
Originally built in the 13th century, this is a beautiful golden temple, including a large white elephant shrine. You’ll see brightly colored robes of practicing monks around you and smell the incense in the air. Even if temples aren’t your thing, the view of Chiang Mai from the top of the mountain alone is worth the journey.
5. Ayutthaya
If you’re a history buff, look no further than Ayutthaya. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has amazing ruins and plenty of historic temples.
This city was founded in 1350 and was made the capital of Thailand to avoid a smallpox outbreak. But in 1767, it was destroyed by the Burmese army, after which the kingdom collapsed. The ruins are still protected in the city’s historical park.
6. Visit the Little Islands Near Phuket
If you’re in Phuket, visiting Phang Nga Bay is a must. It’s home to 40 little islands and is filled with caves, lagoons, and mangroves. There are so many little things that make this bay special that it would be impossible to find them all.
But if you’re looking for a more popular destination, you definitely need to go to Koh Phi Phi. This famous island has been in several films, and it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. And if you love the water, there’s no better place to go snorkeling.
If you’re going to visit Phuket, check out our post on the top things to do so you can make sure you don’t miss anything!
7. Full Moon Party
If you like to party, there’s absolutely nothing else like this in the world, so be sure to visit during a full moon. On the beaches of Koh Phang, up to 30,000 people come to celebrate every full moon. You’ll find heart-pounding music, nonstop drinking, and dancing during this amazing event.
Don’t Wait: Book Your Trip to Thailand Today!
Check out our Thailand Adventure Travel Guide if you want more guidance on what to do other than visit the top Thailand attractions. And be sure to check out our special offers for various guided holiday tours around the country. It’s best to book early so your ideal tour isn’t sold out, so make sure to book your trip today!
