10 Incredible Thai Attractions that Rejuvenate Your Senses

Without exception, incredible Thai attractions require you to do everything that the locals do and more to derive the most from the trip. Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand remains one the most popular as also the most affordable holiday destinations in the world. For those who wish to release stress and fatigue, this country can also soothe your senses in every way.

Owing to Buddhism being the predominant religion, your itinerary will likely feature trips to temples/shrines in every city, locale and island. To their credit, each of these features a unique style, and hence offers something new to tourists. To help you plan for the Thailand trip, compiled as follows is a list of recommended cities and islands that satiate the senses and soothe the soul –

Bangkok

Despite the metropolitan vibe that defines every capital city in the world, Bangkok manages to uphold its traditional roots. Temples dedicated to Lord Buddha form a major part of the incredible Thai attractions in this city. Choose the oldest among them – Wat Pho – as the starting point. Having paid homage to the rare reclining pose of the deity, move on to the scenic Wat Arun with its impressive spires. Conclude the pilgrimage with the largest, namely the Phra Kaew, wherein till date the ruling monarch tends to the deity.

Undertake the 2-hour cruise on the Chao Phraya to soak in the sights over a sumptuous buffet and lively music. For a deeper connection, opt for the longboat tour, wherein the long wooden boat weaves its way through the canals. The ride provides a glimpse of everyday life in Thailand, not to mention sailing by the imposing 60-meter-high statue of the deity in seated posture,

Chiang Mai

Head north from Bangkok, and a prominent semi-urban spiritual and natural hub that pops up is Chiang Mai. While in Thailand, prepare to come across the word ‘Wat’ every now and then. Mostly it serves as a prefix. It refers to a temple/monastery, and precedes a name which is specific to that particular monument.

In Chiang Mai, ‘Wat’ is likely to feature a lot in daily conversation, given that most of the incredible Thai attractions in this city are shrines, each unique in its own way. Try and visit at least a few of the 300+ ‘Wats’, and you will have realized how much they differ from each other. Some discerning features that stand out are golden pagodas, wood carvings, elephant sculptures and forested surroundings.  

To take a break from the ‘wats’, travel to Doi Inthanon, which proudly claims to be the roof of the country. Apart from the two pagodas dedicated to Thailand’s royal couple, explore the hiking trails and encounter refreshing waterfalls and tribal villages along the path.

Ayutthaya

Prior to Bangkok, Ayutthaya served as Thailand’s capital, and while it is no longer the political seat, the town still retains much of its former glory through ruins and signature boat noodles. It is from this town that the country derives its identity – religious, cultural and political – a fact that becomes evident when you tour the landmarks.

Among the incredible Thai attractions, the one that truly entices tourists is Wat Mahathat which dates back to the late 14^th century. Because it served as the spiritual seat of the kingdom, there are several statues and memorabilia scattered across the area as if to evoke a strong sense of nostalgia. You are bound to feel your emotions stirring while taking in the haunting sight of the deity’s head ensconced within crisscrossing twines, wondering what the objective might have been.  

One of the quickest as also the most enjoyable ways to check out the age-old Buddhist temples and historical sites entails undertaking a boat ride on the Chao Phraya. In between the landmarks, make sure you take a break at one of the well-known local eateries and dig into the bowl of rice noodles and multiple varieties of meat soaked in a full-bodied broth.

Pattaya

Located along the Gulf of Thailand, this sea-side town aims to fulfill your senses. Some of the incredible Thai attractions in and around the city include the wooden Sanctuary of Truth that traces the spiritual roots of Indic religions. While the incomplete sanctuary resembles a large temple and is every architect’s delight, Khao Chi Chan, or the Buddha Mountain, features a colossal statue of the deity seated on a limestone base.

Pattaya provides you with plenty of opportunities to appreciate nature, like the botanical garden with period displays, a large aquarium, elephant village and a park featuring ice sculptures. After you are done with the day’s wanderings, brace yourself for the most vibrant and interesting nightlife in all of Thailand.

The list of incredible Thai attractions in this town also features beaches, wherein each carries a different vibe. So, you can pick one depending on whether you wish to enjoy the water sports, explore the coral reefs, or simply laze around on the powdery sand.

Kanchanaburi

If you ever wondered where the gripping WWII movies were shot, then Kanchanaburi in Thailand’s west must feature in your itinerary. Acknowledge the research that went into the construction of the ‘Death Railway’ and making of this visual masterpiece through the portion of the bridge that spanned River Kwai’s two branches, namely Noi and Yai. View the related paraphernalia in the museum and salute the sacrifices of the brave martyrs of the Allied Forces who upheld their country’s honor in the arid and bare landscape.

Moving on from the somber ambience, some incredible Thai attractions in this part of the country include national parks, a 100+ years old monkey-pod tree and a sky-walk. Step on to the glass walkway, and as you proceed, the view expands to encompass every geographic detail. Schedule your visit at early morning or dusk to be able to view the spectacular scenery of the confluence of the three rivers, the city and the mountains being bathed in a colorful palette.

Erawan happens to be a family-friendly nature centric attraction which features hiking trails and lagoons that are safe for swimming. Another venue which allows you to connect with the wild is the Safari Park, wherein you can feed the various animal species by hand.

5 Incredible Islands (Koh) in Thailand

Koh – a Thai word – translates to island in English. Given the presence of several islands in the Gulf of Thailand, you are bound to come across this word not just while planning your itinerary, but also during your trip. Incredible Thai attractions that lie beyond the coast in the midst of deep blue waters include –

Phuket

Being the largest among all the ‘Koh’, Phuket consists of all elements that make for an ideal vacation. You can opt for one of the four main beaches to bask in the sun, say your prayers at the Chalong shrine, and wrap up the relatively relaxed day digging into ethnic seafood culinary delights at one of the several upbeat eating joints. Follow nature trails that weave through the forest and an elephant sanctuary, ending at points that provide a panoramic view.

Phi Phi

Although smaller than Phuket, this incredible Thai attraction packs more than a punch for an interested traveler. Relive ‘The Beach’ experience at Maya Bay, and explore the beautiful coral reefs that encircle this Koh. Trek through the limestone formations and feel the euphoria of encountering a fresh-water lagoon, not to mention admiring the artwork etched by the cave dwelling early inhabitants of the island.

Samui

This Koh provides a unique opportunity to wander through a fisherman’s village and also relish the fare at the restaurants. Even though this Koh is popular for its relaxed vibe, there is plenty to keep you on your toes throughout the visit. Incredible Thai attractions that pique curiosity include the deity with 18 arms and the monk mummy, both of which are one of a kind in the world.

While some beaches at Samui can be crowded, you can opt for quieter sea-fronts wherein it is possible to swim and snorkel for hours without bumping into anyone.

Phangan

Labelled as a paradise, Phangan is proven to be an ideal destination for someone who intends to reset in every possible way. Plan your trip to this Koh around the full moon to be able to attend the legendary once-a-month beach party held to commemorate this lunar event. If you regard the night-life at incredible Thai attractions as being vibrant, brace yourself for the electrifying atmosphere at this event complete with loud music and UV body paints.

Amidst the inviting beaches, the scenic hiking trails, waterfalls and shrines is the opportunity to let yourself loose through ecstatic dance, a perfect way to reset and heal.

Chang

On this Koh, you can feel first-hand the vigor of life in a bustling fishing village, wherein the fisherfolk dwell above the water level in stilt homes. Much of the fishing community is based around piers and you can wade through the water to reach the old lighthouse. Mingle with the local crowd and watch them haul their catch at the end of every fishing session. Then select your favorite variety and relish the local seafood preparation.

Other incredible Thai attractions in this Koh include the Klong Plu waterfall that cascades through the lush green surroundings. Settle down at one of the viewpoints to embrace the refreshing ambience of a sunrise/sunset.

Final Thoughts

Because every corner of Thailand has something to reveal, it is but natural to feel overwhelmed while planning a trip to this country. Rather than spend your days in confusion or come up with an unsatisfactory plan, contact Flipside Leisure, and let them chalk out the details for you. Not only will you have earned an organized holiday, but also one that is tailored to your personal tastes.