Thailand is heaving with more and more tourists as it is gaining popularity as the travel hub in Southeast Asia. If you are looking for a relaxed holiday experience, there are some offbeat places in Thailand that are quiet, fewer tourists, peaceful, and far away from the mainstream itinerary. Just have a look!
The white-sand beaches, blue waters, tropical islands, luxury villas, and the dynamic nightlife of Thailand, WOW! It’s no surprise that most people end up going to these famous tourist hotspots. As tourists flood the famous destinations such as Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Krabi, etc., the places become overcrowded, especially during the holiday seasons. But Thailand has enough places to delight you with other less explored places. These places provide a castaway experience which can be a lonesome island, green jungles, charming waterfalls, tropical evergreen forests and trekking on mountains, etc.
Skip overly Instagrammed places and head to the less explored places to enjoy more. These hidden jewels will definitely provide an unforgettable experience to you!!!
The Islands:
There are many beautiful islands where one can explore the unexplored. The islands off the coast in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Siam are the less explored places by tourists. Certainly, some islands are famous across the world for their party ambiance and beautiful beaches. Thus, the island hopping experience will definitely give relaxation, recreation, and spiritual exploration to you. Let’s check some of the islands that are must-see places in Thailand.
1. Koh Lipe:
This island is located in the Adang-Rawi Archipelago in southwest Thailand. A small island just outside the jurisdiction of Tarutao National Park and has plenty of accommodation from grass huts to bungalows.
2. Koh Lanta:
Koh Lanta is an archipelago of three major islands and fifty smaller islands near the Krabi province. Koh Lanta Yai is the largest island at this place. You can see several beaches on the west coast of KoLantaYai with a line of resorts and bungalows. This island is also a hub for adventure enthusiasts. They can witness the coral reefs and ocean life including manta rays and whales. An abundance of tropical forests, ancient plants, and remnants of rainforests are some of the places that can be explored.
You can also enjoy beautiful beaches, limestone karsts, and the tangled range of mangrove plantations at this tropical paradise. It also offers an array of diverse and less explored getaway for travelers. The picture-postcard views, serene atmosphere, and crashing of waves give immense pleasure to the tourists. Moreover, KoLanta is the dream destination for beach lovers to get a secluded holiday away from crowded places making it one of the best places to go in Thailand.
3. Koh Chang:
Koh Chang is an unheard-of island located in eastern Thailand covered with jungles and picture-perfect beaches. You can see hidden waterfalls with blue pools inside the jungle on this island.
There are countless small islands to be explored at this place. As part of Mu Ko Chang National Marine Park, you can also enjoy the tropical weather here. It would be a spectacular experience to do scuba diving in the sparkling waters if you love water sports activities. The wild beaches give a lively and chill environment to enjoy the nightlife.
4. Koh Samet:
Koh Samet is a favorite respite for tourists from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. Despite National Park covering most of the island, there are many vacation spots you can find depending upon the experience sought. The white sand beaches are great attractions on this island. You can find more serene places that feature cozy accommodations and stunning sunset views. Tourists mostly come to this place to sunbathe, swim, windsurf, and enjoy the nightlife.
The Waterfalls:
You’ll find the water oasis in almost every part of the Thai province. Discover the waterfalls and have a good time in the shallow streams of water. You can find perfect picturesque spots near the gurgling water and green canopy at these places. Enjoy the serenity by listening to the sound of water murmuring. Keep going further, and you will end up with many beautiful places in Thailand.
1. Erawan Waterfalls:
Erawan waterfalls are one of the most attractive places in Thailand. You will find an epitome of mystical beauty along with the emerald green water. Tucked away inside the Erawan national park, this waterfall inturn comprises 7 levels of waterfalls tumbling and splashing over limestone terrace. The uppermost part is considered as the three-headed elephant. When you are visiting Kanchanaburi, take a hike through the scenic park and discover the waterfalls.
You can also see the caves like Mi, Wang Bohdan, Rua during your trip to this park. Make sure to carry your hiking boots and extra clothes during your tour. It is one of the most unique and must-see places in Thailand.
2. Chanthaburi:
For a blissful holiday in Thailand, Chanthaburi is the best escape for tourists. It is known as the gem capital of Thailand where you can find precious stones. Three hours away from Bangkok, the city is unfrequented and considered as one of the best places to visit in Thailand.
The city is also known as the city of the moon where you’ll find the Asian culture. A plethora of activities makes this place a great ambiance for tourists. Most travelers seek fortune at this place. This place also hosts arguably the most stunning waterfalls, lagoon, and pools with rich and diverse wildlife.
You can also witness many other waterfalls in Thailand. Just have a look at the following.
- Khlong Lan Waterfall
- Sridit Waterfall
- Maeya Waterfall
- Bang Pae Waterfall
- Namtok Ton Nga Chang Waterfall
- Phliu Waterfall
Historical Places:
Forget more popular cities like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket and explore some underrated gems in Thailand if you are a history buff. You can witness the rich history of Thailand with its impressive landmarks, ancient temples, and Buddhist architecture. These breathtaking places are considered as some of the best places to go in Thailand if you are a history enthusiast.
Let’s walk through some of Thailand’s frequently visited historical sites by tourists and travelers from around the world.
1. Kanchanaburi:
It is a place historians will love to visit. The river Kwai has a bridge that was built by the Allied Prisoner of War as a part of the Thai-Burmese railway which is also known as ‘Death Railway’. These landmarks and wartime memorials are must-see places in Thailand. You’ll feel like revisiting history at this place. And surely, the dense jungles, beautiful waterfalls, and attractive riverside villages will make your trip unforgettable.
2. Sukhothai:
Sukhothai was Thailand’s ancient capital and surrounded by many UNESCO world heritage structures. It is located in the lower north of Thailand and sees a few travelers throughout the year. Sukhothai means ‘The dawn of happiness’. As the name itself depicts happiness, you can feel the Thai culture, language, architecture, and art at this place. The Thai lifestyle and heritage also give a vibrant and lively scene to the city.
You can see the historical sites and ruined temples inside the Sukhothai historical park. The best way to get around these places is on cycle. You can see the paddy fields, trees, ponds, etc. You can also witness the rural lifestyle of Thailand at this place apart from the architecture. This place is best suited for travelers who want to look at ancient Thailand with the fascinating Thai roots.
3. Chiang Mai:
Chiang Mai is a place situated just 5 Km from Chiang Rai and one of the lesser-known tourist destinations in Thailand. The ancient Thai structures, Buddhist shrines, natural greenery, and striking wildlife make the place more attractive. The historians will definitely fall in love with this historical city. It forms a famous Golden Triangle where Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand meet together. It is one of the best places to go to in Thailand apart from the big cities. This place is far away from the hustle and bustle of mainstream Thailand and gives lots of opportunities to enjoy several breathtaking activities.
Mountains/Trekking Places:
If you are addicted to traveling adventurously, these are the hiking trails and mountains in Thailand where you can do trekking and get the fresh air. Check it out!
1. Doi Mon Jong:
Doi Mon Jong is known as the golden mountain of Thailand. The green landscape is surrounded by beautiful scenery where the tourists can enjoy seeing the sunrise and sunset views. It is a great time to visit during December and January as the fields are filled with Rhododendron, a rare flower that can be found only during these periods. The peak looks like a Lion’s head and is considered as one of the top ten peaks in Thailand.
Doi Mon Jong is a great escape to enjoy the beautiful views. It takes 4 to 5 hours to get there on foot.
2. Doi Luang Chiang Dao:
Prominently known as Thailand’s tallest peak, Doi Luang Chiang Dao is the third tallest peak in Thailand and definitely one of the finest places to go in Thailand. You can enjoy the stunning view of fog at this place. You can also see sunrise and sunset standing at the peak of this mountain.
The hikers should not miss the place as it consists of a series of mountains like Doi Sam Pee Nong, Doi Pyramid, and so on. It takes 5 to 6 hours to hike up. Interestingly, you could see some tropical plants, different kinds of birds, and forests during your hike.
3. Mon Tu Le:
You will be amazed to see the stunning view of this mountain during the winter season. This mountain turns into a golden color since the field turns its color to gold from November to January.
You’ll find a lot of picturesque places where you can take pictures with fog in the morning and the sky full of stars at night. The hiking trail is pretty difficult and best suited for the professional hikers who have good experience in trekking sports. The hiking usually takes 6-8 hours to reach the peak of Mon Tu Le.
4. Phetchaburi:
Phetchaburi is a popular town among the Thai locals. The narrow lanes, teak shops, and ancient temples give a perfect getaway for tourists. You’ll definitely enjoy the timeless ambiance and amazing food at this place.
Don’t forget to check out the cave shrine of ThamKhaoLuang. You can even see Bryde’s Whales if you travel in the months from January to May. It is one of the best hiking trails and camping locations in Thailand.
5. Pai:
Reconnect and unwind in the valley of the Pai River at the Mae Hong Son Province of northern Thailand. Pai is the perfect mix of the stunning urban environment and picturesque nature. The rich city is known for its yoga, wheatgrass shots, organic food, waterfalls, hiking trails, and the slow living life. It is an absolute paradise for art and music enthusiasts to get a peaceful reprieve from city life.
It is an ideal place for you if you want to bask in the company of nature. The best thing to do in this place is to explore the natural wonders in a motorbike. If you are a backpacker, this place is the best place to go in Thailand. You can relax with a drink at night near the riverside pubs. You can also enjoy different varieties of culinary delights at this place on the streets. These include Indian, Chinese, Sushi, Thai, etc.
Rent a bicycle and explore the hidden caves, lesser-known temples, refreshing mountain air. Visit the afternoon market and head to some bar and dance the night away with other like-minded travelers. If you are a nature junkie, this place will be the best destination to get lost in.
Final Thoughts:
Unlike the other cities, the above destinations mentioned in the article don’t have many facilities, but these places can provide you amazing unexplored places. Beware, you won’t get an English speaking person in these areas, thus it is recommended to learn some of the basic Thai phrases that will help you during your trip. Finally, prepare yourself to experience true Thai life which is quite different from life in the big cities.