Turquoise waters, pristine beaches and golden temples are just part of the allure surrounding the southeast Asian country of Thailand. There’s a lot to see in the Land of Smiles, but don’t miss these seven must-visit places in Thailand.
Bangkok’s Grand Palace
The country’s capital is ripe with ancient temples and royal grounds, but if you only have the chance to see one, head to Bangkok’s Grand Palace. This spectacular and sprawling royal complex has been home to the Thai royals since the 18th century, and it’s one of the finest examples of Thai architecture. After strolling through the pavilions, courtyards and halls at the Grand Palace, you can also visit one of the country’s most important temples: the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, dedicated to a small jade Buddha.
Floating markets
Canals and rivers run throughout Bangkok, and vendors have taken to turning their boats into shops in what are known as floating markets. As you float along the water, you can buy anything from fresh fruit and freshly cooked delicacies to Thai trinkets and fresh flowers. Hire a long tail boat and be ready to bargain hard for the best prices.
Koh Phi Phi
As some of Thailand’s most idyllic islands, the archipelago of Koh Phi Phi is an easy boat ride from the popular island of Phuket. The picture-perfect beaches attract both sun seekers and movie makers, with “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio being one of the most notable movies filmed in the region. After spending the day on one of Thailand’s most breathtaking beaches, you can choose between the islands’ quiet retreats or the infamous Thai nightlife scene.
Ayutthaya
Once a grand capital city, Ayutthaya burned to ruins in 1767. Today, the remaining temples, spires and monasteries offer a magnificent glimpse into what was once the trading capital of Asia. The stone ruins are about 40 miles outside Bangkok.
Khmer Ruins
You don’t necessarily have to travel to Cambodia to see the remains of the once expansive and powerful Khmer Empire. In the Buriram province, Phanom Rung is a Khmer temple dedicated to Shiva. It sits on the summit of an extinct volcano and is itself a symbol of Mount Kailash, believed to be Shiva’s home. Phanom Rung contains several stone buildings, a carved archway and 15 doorways that allow the sun to shine through in perfect alignment.
Khao Yai National Park
This treasured Thai jungle is home to some of the best wildlife watching the country has to offer. A trek through the forest could lead to sights like gibbons, elephants and waterfalls on any given day. There are more than 20 trails into the jungle throughout the park, but you can also spot wildlife from two viewing towers or a guided safari.
Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai
This mountain-top temple amid the natural beauty of Doi Suthep National Park is one of the top Buddhist sites in the country. After climbing a dragon statue-lined staircase under a canopy of trees, you’ll reach the temple and its stunning views of Chiang Mai below. Among the various worship rooms and temples you’ll see the golden stupa, which shimmers into the sky with a height of 80 feet.
(Main image: Greg Knapp)
