10 Best Things To Do In Thailand For Amazing Vacation
Thailand, an exotic country known historically as Siam, lies at the very heart of Southeast Asia. Full of stunning temples, Buddha statues, and beautiful tropical beaches, it is a destination worth visiting, as well as photographing! One way to find out which Thai locations are the most popular ones is to dive into our list of most Instagrammable locations in Thailand.
Regardless, if you want to go sightseeing, shopping, or you are rather a thrill-seeker, Thailand has many more things to offer! Here is a list of our top 10 things to do in Thailand that you don’t want to miss out on!
1. See the Emerald Buddha
There may be many Buddha statues in Thailand, but did you know that the Emerald Buddha is considered to be one of the most precious ones? Housed in The Temple of The Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Keo) in Bangkok, it is the main attraction to visit in the country. Made of green jade, gold, and diamonds, it is truly a majestic sight.
In the past, it has actually travelled to quite a lot of different areas in Asia. And why is that? Well, within Buddhism, it is strongly believed that the statue brings good fortune and prosperity to the country in which it resides, and who wouldn’t want that for their country?
2. Browse the Chatuchak Weekend Market
While you are in Bangkok, you should go check out the Chatuchak Weekend Market! Whether you are looking for art pieces, antiques, clothes or something to eat, it is able to cater to anyone’s needs. Having over 15,000 stalls and over 200,000 people that visit it every weekend, the Market is very much the world’s largest weekend market!
It is open every Friday (6 PM to midnight), Saturday and Sunday (9 AM to 6 PM). The best time to go shopping though, is when the market first opens. You should arm yourself with bartering skills if you want to get low prices (although they aren’t all that high, to begin with). Also keep in mind that the more Thai you use, the lesser chances are that you will be ripped off!
Seeing as you can get your hands on virtually anything you are looking for there, be aware: you might not be able to decide what to get.
3. Feed the elephants at the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park
If you’re an animal lover and want a fun, educational and memorable experience, you should definitely stop by the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park, located in Choeng Thale. Apart from the fact that the elephant population in Thailand is diminishing, and this very park is, in fact, helping the big animals, here you are free to see the animals and interact with them in their natural habitat!
Other than feeding the elephants, you can also pet and bathe them, all the while being accompanied by trained professionals and guides who you can also learn about the elephants’ lives from.
The Green Elephant Sanctuary Park ensures that all activities are carried out responsibly, prioritising the elephants’ welfare and well-being, making it a truly unique and rewarding experience for all visitors.
4. Take a swim in the Andaman Sea
In the summer, the place to be is the beach by the Andaman Sea!
The sea is famous for its crystal clear waters, beautiful coral reefs, and diverse marine life. You can explore its beauty by snorkelling, scuba diving, or taking a boat tour.
The Andaman Sea is also home to many breathtaking islands such as Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta, which offer stunning beaches, delicious local food, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Looking for adventure, perhaps? Try sea kayaking or rock climbing on the limestone cliffs.
With so much to offer, the Andaman Sea is a perfect destination for travellers of all ages and interests. So pack your bags, and come experience the magic of the Andaman Sea!
5. Go on water slides at Andamanda Phuket
Among the top things to do in Thailand is Andamanda Phuket, an exquisite resort located in, you guessed it, Phuket!
If you’re looking for luxury and relaxation, look no further! The resort boasts stunning views of the Andaman Sea and is surrounded by lush tropical gardens.
Guests can choose from a variety of spacious and well-appointed rooms and villas, each designed with comfort and elegance in mind.
The resort offers a range of amenities, including water slides, a beautiful infinity pool, a fitness centre, and a spa where guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments.
Andamanda Phuket also provides easy access to the nearby beaches, where visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and a variety of water sports.
Feeling hungry? The resort’s restaurant serves delectable Thai and international cuisine, ensuring that guests have a delightful dining experience.
With its impeccable service and breathtaking surroundings, Amanda Phuket is the perfect destination for those seeking a luxurious and tranquil escape while in Phuket.
6. Look at art and animal bones at the Baan Dam Museum
Visiting the Baan Dam Museum (also known as the Black House Museum) is among those unique things to do in Thailand. More precisely, in Chiang Rai. The museum is a collection of over 40 houses and buildings that showcase the works of renowned Thai artist Thawan Duchanee.
Why is it so unique, you might ask? Well, the buildings are made from a variety of materials, including wood, concrete, and animal skins, and are filled with a variety of sculptures, paintings, and artefacts. You can even see various animal bones there!
The museum also has a dark and eerie atmosphere, with many of the sculptures and artworks featuring themes of death and decay. Might be off-putting to some but, despite this, the museum is a beautiful and awe-inspiring destination, with intricate carvings, stunning architecture, and unique pieces of artwork.
It is important to note that you can take a guided tour of the museum and learn about the history and significance of each building and artwork.
You just have to visit The Baan Dam Museum if you are an art lover and someone looking for a unique and memorable experience in Chiang Rai!
7. Stop for a pastry at Feuang Nara
After a day of exploring Chiang Rai, a good course of action would be to stop at Feuang Nara. It is a charming coffee shop and bakery known for its delicious coffee and baked goods, including pastries, cakes, and bread. Feuang Nara has a cosy and inviting atmosphere, with comfortable seating and a relaxed ambience.
The coffee is made from locally sourced beans and is brewed to perfection by skilled baristas. The bakery uses high-quality ingredients and traditional baking methods to create its tasty treats, with options for all dietary preferences!
In addition to coffee and baked goods, Feuang Nara also offers a variety of Thai dishes and international cuisine.
The shop is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day, or to grab a quick bite on the go. Feuang Nara is a popular destination among locals and tourists alike and is a must-visit spot for coffee and food lovers in Chiang Rai!
8. Learn how to cook at the Smile Organic Farm Cooking School
Now, the Smile Organic Farm Cooking School is no ordinary cooking school – the experience itself begins with a tour of the farm!
But let’s go back to the basics for a moment. The cooking school is located in Chiang Mai and offers visitors a chance to learn how to cook authentic Thai dishes using fresh and organic ingredients.
Firstly, while at the farm, you can see how the ingredients are grown and harvested. You can then take a cooking class and learn how to prepare classic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum Soup. The classes are, of course, led by experienced chefs who provide step-by-step guidance and share their knowledge of Thai cooking techniques.
After the class, you can sit down and enjoy the delicious meal you’ve prepared, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the farm!
The Smile Organic Farm Cooking School is both a fun and educational experience that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Thai culture and cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this cooking school is something you should look into while in Chiang Mai!
9. Be in awe of miles of the untouched jungle at the Kaeng Krachan National Park
Kaeng Krachan is a stunning national treasure located in Phetchaburi, a city only about 3 hours by bus from Bangkok. It is a haven for both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, while also being the largest national park in Thailand! With its lush jungle areas, scenic mountains, and sparkling rivers, Kaeng Krachan offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.
If you decide to go, you can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems through hiking trails, where you can witness unique flora and fauna. The park is also home to various species of birds, making it a bird-watching paradise!
Adventurous souls can go camping, fishing, or even rafting in the rivers. There are also several viewpoints that provide breathtaking panoramic vistas of the park’s landscapes.
For a truly memorable experience, visit the Pala-U Waterfall, a majestic cascade that offers a refreshing swimming spot!
With its natural beauty and plenty of recreational opportunities, Kaeng Krachan National Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquillity and adventure in the heart of Thailand.
10. Have a drink on the Bangla Road
The Bangla Road, located in Phuket, is a lively and exciting destination that offers visitors a wide range of entertainment options. You can stroll down the road, grab a drink, and enjoy the colourful lights, music, and street performers.
The road is lined with restaurants, bars, and clubs that offer a variety of food and drinks. In the evening, the road comes alive with music and dancing, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
Bangla Road is also known for its shopping opportunities, with many stalls selling souvenirs and clothing.
If you’re looking for adventure, you can also try Muay Thai boxing or take a tuk-tuk ride around the city.
Whether you’re travelling alone or with friends and family, Bangla Road is a great destination to experience the energy and excitement of Phuket!
