Tourism in Thailand

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Asia / Southeast Asia

Tourist attractions

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Region: Bangkok

Cultural Heritage

Most important temple within Royal Palace. Enshrines Emerald Buddha with magnificent golden decoration.

Grand Palace

Region: Bangkok

Cultural Heritage

Royal palace complex established 1782. Mix of Thai traditional and Western architecture.

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Region: Ayutthaya Province

World Heritage

14th-18th century Ayutthaya Kingdom ruins. Famous for brick stupas and fallen tree Buddha head.

Sukhothai Historical Park

Region: Sukhothai Province

World Heritage

Early Thai kingdom capital ruins. Ponds and stone Buddhas illuminated.

Doi Suthep Temple

Region: Chiang Mai Province

Cultural Heritage

Golden stupa on mountain peak overlooking Chiang Mai city.

Phuket Patong Beach

Region: Phuket Province

Nature

Popular resort beach with clear water and nightlife.

Phi Phi Islands

Region: Krabi Province

Nature

Limestone rock formations and turquoise coves; diver's dream destination.

Khao Yai National Park

Region: Nakhon Ratchasima Province and others

Nature

World Heritage Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex. Highlights include elephants and waterfalls.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Region: Ratchaburi Province

Cultural Experience

Traditional water market buying and selling fruits and dishes from rowing boats.

Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Region: Chiang Rai Province

Modern Architecture

Pure white temple designed by contemporary artist Chalermchai Kositpipat.

Suggested itineraries

6-Day Capital and Ancient Cities Highlights

Duration (days): 6

Highlights: Bangkok three major temples, Ayutthaya ruins, Floating market, Khao San Road

Classic course touring Ayutthaya and markets on day trips from Bangkok base.

8-Day Northern Thailand Culture and Nature Exploration

Duration (days): 8

Highlights: Chiang Mai Old City, Doi Inthanon, Yi Peng lantern experience, Ethnic minority villages

Fly to north on domestic flight, enjoy highland cool breezes and Lanna culture.

5-Day Andaman Sea Island Hopping

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Phuket, Phi Phi Island, Krabi Railay Beach

Southern base cruise indulging in white sand beaches and marine sports.

Travel tips

  • October-February dry season optimal for tourism; April scorching heat and water festival, wear clothes okay to get wet
  • At temples clothing covering shoulders and knees mandatory; rental cloth at entrance
  • Taxis confirm meter use; negotiate fare tuk-tuks confirm price quote first
  • Street food choose cooked items; drinks with ice safer at bottled water shops
  • High denomination notes less circulated; prepare small baht for markets
  • Currency exchange at bank-affiliated locations better rates; city more favorable than airport
  • Smoking prohibited in public indoors; e-cigarette possession itself illegal
  • Drug crimes potential death penalty; severe punishment even for possession or riding along
  • Rainy season islands easily cancel speedboats; allow schedule flexibility
  • SIM cards instantly available at airport arrival lobby; tourist plans affordable

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