There’s an endless list of things to do and places to visit in Thailand. You could spend your entire life exploring and still only scratch the surface. Thailand is a dream destination for many, offering something for every type of traveler. From vibrant cities and sandy beaches to lush jungles and ancient ruins, this country has it all. The food is renowned globally, and the nightlife is legendary. Plus, traveling here is cost-effective, making your money go a long way.
Planning a trip can be overwhelming because there are so many exciting activities to choose from. Here are 25 amazing things to do in Thailand to help you get started.
Begin with Wat Phra Kaew, the most sacred site in Thailand, known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Found after a lightning strike in 1434, this sacred figurine now resides in Bangkok’s grand temple. Only the King of Thailand is allowed to touch it during important ceremonies. Nearby, you can also visit Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn) in one day if you start early.
Adventurers should head north to Chiang Mai and tackle the Mae Hong Son Loop. With 1,864 curves, the road trip offers stops at national parks, hot springs, and scenic small towns.
If you’re into parties, Koh Phangan is famous for its Full Moon Party, as well as other gatherings like the Jungle Experience, half and new moon parties, and waterfall parties. For less party-centric activities, the island boasts stunning nature and beautiful beaches.
For those interested in jungles, multi-day treks from Chiang Mai offer activities like swimming in waterfalls, cliff diving, and visiting remote villages. This is a great way to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty.
Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market is perfect for shopping enthusiasts, featuring thousands of stalls selling everything you can imagine. Meanwhile, Pai offers a mix of waterfalls, hot springs, and nightlife, making it a delightful hippie town.
Sampling Thai cuisine is a must. From street food to fancy restaurants, Thai food is delicious and affordable. Koh Tao is another great place to visit, especially for scuba diving. It offers ample courses at reasonable prices, with training sessions in the ocean instead of a pool.
Check out a ladyboy cabaret show for a unique experience, or join the Songkran festival in April for the ultimate Thai party. Participate in traditional Buddhist festivals to gain insights into Thai culture and visit religious sites.
In Krabi, Railay and Tonsai are climbing hubs with hundreds of routes. Railay offers upscale options, while Tonsai is budget-friendly.
Chiang Rai boasts unique temples like the White Temple and the Black House. Both offer a mix of eerie and artistic experiences. Another quirky activity is trying a fish spa, where tiny fish nibble at your dead skin.
Muay Thai kickboxing is Thailand’s national sport and offers an authentic cultural experience whether you watch a match or join a training program. For those seeking solitude, Ko Tarutao National Park provides an untouched escape.
History buffs will enjoy Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, former kingdoms with grand palaces and temples. Both can be explored by bicycle.
A cooking class in Phuket or Chiang Mai can be a great way to bring back a piece of Thailand with you by learning how to make classic dishes. If you’re looking for luxury, renting a villa through Airbnb or VRBO is a great option.
Helping out at an elephant sanctuary offers a rewarding experience. Unlike unethical elephant camps, sanctuaries allow you to feed and bathe these gentle giants while contributing to their protection.
Enjoy beach bars with fire-spinning poi shows, and for a thrill, try ziplining through the jungle near Chiang Mai. No visit to Thailand is complete without a tuk-tuk ride through Bangkok’s chaotic streets.
Bangkok’s nightlife is diverse, offering everything from backpacker hotspots on Khao San Road to chic rooftop bars. If you’re looking to extend your adventure, consider taking a slow boat ride into neighboring Laos for a scenic journey.
Thailand offers so much that a month might not be enough, but it certainly will be worth it. The experiences and sights ensure you’ll keep coming back for more.
