Things to see in Thailand

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There is so much to see and do in Thailand that few visitors can resist returning. With an expansive coast line and gorgeous tropical islands, Thailand is justly famed for its wonderful beaches and laid-back lifestyle. Inland there are the iconic sights of lush jungles, rolling hills and rice paddies. As a country of Buddhists, there is also an abundance of golden temples and beautiful, spiritually-inspired architecture. One word of caution though: to avoid the common fate of temple fatigue, don't try to see too much. Rather concentrate on a few key attractions and spend some quality time in each of them.

One reason why Thailand is such a rewarding sightseeing destination is that it has retained its distinctive identity in the face of significant western influence. That makes visiting here an exciting and exotic experience, whether you are resort loving beach bum or an adrenaline junky exploring hill tribes and river rapids. More good news is that Thailand is blessed with year-round temperate weather so you visit at any time.

Getting around is fairly easy and remarkably safe. An excellent bus network connects even far-flung towns with the major cities, while a comfortable sleeper train connects Chang Mai in the far north with the capital Bangkok. Many people prefer to see the sights via organised tours and air-conditioned buses, but by doing so you risk missing out on the fun of getting between attractions, where you will encounter local people in unexpected ways.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is an escape from the Western-style shopping malls of Bangkok and a glimpse into the past, revealing the centuries' old way of life of the residents whose stilt-houses perch on the canals. Visitors can explore the market with boat trips and sample the wares of local farmers as... see full details

Royal Grand Palace

Construction of the palace began in 1782 and was completed in time for the coronation of King Rama I, and opened in 1785 to signify the end of the Burmese invasion of Thailand. The palace itself is made up of a complex array... see full details

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)

Situated adjacent to the Royal Grand Palace, Wat Pho is Bangkok’s oldest, largest and most famous temple. The grounds of Wat Pho contain over 1,000 statues of Buddha, and the temple houses one of Thailand’s most spectacular sights, the Reclining Buddha - a 157ft... see full details

Kanchanaburi

Eighty miles (130km) west of Bangkok, the town of Kanchanaburi has secured its position of infamy as the original site of the Bridge Over The River Kwai, where during World War II allied prisoners of war were used by the Japanese to build... see full details

Mae Sa Waterfall

Set in the lush Soi Suithep-Pui National Park, only 10 miles (15km) out of town, the Mae Sa Waterfall is definitely worth visiting. Follow the winding pathway to the waterfall's plummeting 10-tiered cascades. There are various little secluded areas along... see full details

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit)

Dating back to the 13th century, Wat Traimit stands nearly 10ft (3m) tall, weighs over 5 tons and is believed to be solid cast gold. It was discovered by accident in 1957 when an old stucco image was dropped by a crane, shattering... see full details

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple)

Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, is constructed of white Carrara marble and is known as one of Bangkok's most beautiful wats where even the courtyard is paved with polished white marble. The temple's name literally means 'The Temple of the fifth... see full details

Vimanmek Mansion Museum

Built by King Rama V in 1901, the exquisite golden teakwood mansion, also known as Vimanmek Palace, is located in the Dusit Palace complex. It was restored in 1982 for Bangkok's bicentennial and King Rama IX granted permission to transform Vimanmek Mansion into a... see full details

Muay Thai

Fight fans will get a kick out of Thailand's national sport Muay Thai. The matches can be best watched at the Rajadamnern stadium but be warned, the prices for foreigners or farang are much more than local's. Usually less than 10 matches are... see full details

Ayutthaya

This is the former capital of Siam from 1350 until mid 18th century and at one time was one of the largest cities in the world. The capital was relocated to Bangkok in 1768 when the Burmese army destroyed much of Ayutthaya. Today... see full details

Pai

Located 135km (83 miles) up a coiled mountain road from Chiang Mai, Pai is an unlikely tourist attraction. The town has undergone a number of transitions from hill tribe village to hippie hideaway to a tourist playground. Its relaxed atmosphere and peaceful mountain scenery... see full details

Chiang Rai

Nestled into the lush mountains of northernmost Thailand, Chiang Rai surrounds its visitors in hill tribe culture and scenery. Chiang Rai is also the name the city's province which has bared some infamy for being within the Golden Triangle, a previously heavy drug traffic... see full details

Temples

Temple tours of Chiang Mai are a wonderful attraction for visitors. The old town is home to the most honored temples and some tranquil Buddhist sanctuaries. The historic Wat Pra Singh holds the revered Phra Singh Buddha, which dates from... see full details

Lisu Hill-Tribe Display

A worthwhile Chiang Mai attraction is the Lisu Hill-Tribe display at the Hill-Tribe Research Institute Museum. The lives and cultures of the hill-tribe people in Thailand are exhibited here through photographs, agricultural implements, religious artefacts and musical instruments. Household utensils... see full details

Dokmai Garden

The Dokmai Garden (dokmai meaning flower) displays a vast range of edible fruit plants, vegetables and vascular plants. Aluminium signs in English, Japanese and Thai guide and inform guests throughout the grounds, which are surrounded by plantations of teak, bananas... see full details

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden

A beautiful Chiang Mai attraction, the first genuine botanical garden in Thailand was the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden in the Mae Sa Valley. It now also serves as a centre of botanical research and studies. The main feature of this... see full details

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