Exciting Things to do in Thailand: Your next list of #TravelGoals
It does not matter what time of the year it is, Thailand is always a good idea. This far-eastern country has attracted holiday lovers all through the year from all over the world. The place has so much to offer in terms of places to see and things to do, that a single day may just not be enough. Here’s our detailed and exhaustive list of things to do in Thailand that is sure to leave you in awe of this wonderful, exciting and serene Far Eastern haven.
1. The Magnificient Grand Palace
Emerald Buddha Image Source
The Emerald Buddha is essential among the many things to do in Bangkok, Thailand. These gorgeous and breath-taking gold-tipped buildings are nearly 200 years old.
The temple complex is a very popular tourist attraction so make sure you brace yourself for long ques and waiting times.The temple complex has been the official residence of the King of Thailand since 1782.Located near the Emerald Buddha are a host of temples that you must include in your city tour. These are:
- Wat Pho: Home to the famous reclining Buddha in Thailand. This Buddha Statue is also the biggest of its kind in the country.
- Wat Arun: AKA the Temple of Dawn. The temple is an intriguing building and looks stunning from afar, and you have simply blown away when up close.
In addition to these temples, you must also visit the Grand Place. Make sure you visit the palace at night time when the whole building is illuminated. Despite large crowds, a visit to the palace is among some of the most romantic things to do in Thailand.
Tip: Make sure you are appropriately dressed when visiting any temple or religious places in Thailand. Offending the locals is the last thing you want to do.
2. The Serenity of the Golden Triangle
View of the Golden Triangle Image Source
The golden triangle AKA Sop Ruak is referred to as the point where the Ruak river meets the Mekong river. The place is quite significant as it’s the point at which Thailand, Laos and Burma/Myanmar meet. If you are after a truly offbeat experience, make sure you include a visit to this place in your list of things to do in Thailand.
You can hire a boat here, with sail closer to the borders of Laos and Burma/Myanmar. The area was infamous for widespread opium farming. Visit the Hall of Opium at the Golden Triangle Park for a lesson on the local history and the once flourishing opium industry.
3. An Elephant-astic Experience
Asian Elephants Image Source
The Elephants are the national symbol of Thailand and are highly respected animals in the country. An elephant encounter is among the best things to do in Thailand. And if you are a fan of these gentle creatures you can also help volunteer at the sanctuaries.
Beware that although elephants are a revered species of animals in Thailand, they aren’t immune to forms of animal cruelty. Avoid visiting any sanctuary that makes these gentle giants perform cheap circus tricks and keeps them chained and undernourished.
One of the best places for a thrilling elephant encounter would:
- Name: Elephant Nature Park
- Location: Chang Mai, Thailand
- Work: The organisation is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants
Activities you can enjoy:
- Elephant Bathing
- Water Rafting
- Jungle Walks
- Feeding Elephants
- Cost:
- Single Day Visit: INR 5200/- Per adult and INR 2600/- Per Child
- Overnight Day (1 night and 2 Days): INR 12,000/- Per adult and INR 6000/- Per Child
- Contact Number: +66(0)53 272855
- How can you help: Majority of your entry fees and tickets go toward the rehabilitation projects. Likewise, you can also donate, if you feel for their cause.
Must Read: 100 places to visit in Thailand
4. Island Hopping
Phang Nga Bay, Thailand
Thailand has over 5000 miles of explored but most unexplored coastline. Whether you are travelling with friends or your partners make sure Island Hopping is on the top of your list of things to do in Thailand.
The main attraction here is the naturally occurring limestone rocks. They are perhaps the most photographed things in all of Thailand.
The clear conditions and calm seas are ideal for Kayaking
- Cost: Approx. INR 8500/- Per Person
- Duration: Between 6-10 hours just depends on your location and activities.
- Ko Phi Phi Lee and Ko Phi Phi Don
These islands are the best place for chilling in the sun-kissed beaches and enjoying snorkelling in the pristine turquoise waters.
You can even hire a photographer to take excellent underwater shots while you snorkel around.
- Cost: Approx. INR 8700/- Per Person
- Duration: Between 6-10 hours just depends on your location and activities.
5. Hill Tribe Villages
Akha Tribe Elderly Women Image Source
Four main tribes are spread all across Northern Thailand. These are Karen, Hmong, Lisu and Akha, tribes. If you are looking for a unique experience, then a visit to one these tribes should certainly make it your list of things to do in Thailand.
You can take a break from your usual touristy itinerary and spend a few days with these tribal families. It’s a fantastic way to learn about their lives and. This adventure will offer you a unique is sight into the deep-rooted culture if Thailand.
6. Festivals
Songkran Festival
Festivals are an integral part of the loves of the Thai people. Your list of things to do in Thailand must include attending one of the many Thai festivals held during the year.
Locals are welcome to join the festivities and celebrations. This is a fantastic way to learn about the local traditions and customs.
One of the most famous festivals in Thailand is the Songkran Festival AKA the Thai New Year water festival.
- When: April each year
- Significance: The festivals are probably the most important celebration of the year in Thailand.
The day is celebrated performing various symbolic traditions.
These include:
- Visit temples
- Water pouring on Buddha Statues
- Offering food to Buddhist Monks.
- Fun Traditions: The festivals are famous for its water fights. Young people come out on the streets and play with one other by throwing water balloons. This tradition is similar to that if the Indian Festival of Holi.
Related Read: Songkran festival in Thailand is too good to miss
7. Floating markets – Among the best things to do in Thailand
Amphawa Floating Market Image Source
Floating markets are synonymous to Thailand. You list of things to do in Thailand is incomplete without a visit to one of these iconic marketplaces.
The markets are filled with hundreds of stalls selling the very best of the local produce, fruits, meat, fish etc.
Tip: Arrive early (6 am) to avoid large crowds. And don’t forget to carry your cameras.
Famous Floating Markets in Thailand:
Damnoen Saduak, Ratchaburi
- Location: 100 KM south west of the capital city of Bangkok
- Timings: 9 am to 2 pm
- Tour Price: Approx. Tour Cost is INR 2000/- Per Person
- Trip Advisor Rating: 5/5
Amphawa Floating Market, Samut Songkhram
- Location: Amphawa, Thailand
- Timings: 7 am to 7 pm Sat-Sun
- Tour Price: Approx. Tour Cost is INR 6000/- Per Person (Includes other attraction)
- Trip Advisor Rating: 4/5
Taling Chan Weekend Floating Market, Bangkok
- Location: 324 Chakphra Rd, Bangkok, Thailand
- Timings:8 am to 5 pm Sat-Sun
- Tour Price: Approx.Tour Cost is INR 6000/- Per Person
- Trip Advisor Rating: 3.5/5
8. Kanchanaburi
Death Railway
Kanchanaburi is a lush green forest area and a haven for backpackers. However, the place has a dark past, i.e. the Death Railways. The railway line connects Thailand to Burma/Myanmar and is a sad reminder of the horrors of WWII.
It was built by prisoners and is still haunted by the death and tragedies that occurred during the ill-fated war.
Make sure you do your research before heading out to Kanchanaburi and talk to other travellers who have been here, before making a conscious decision.
9. Ancient Ruins and National Parks of Thailand
Prasat Hin Phimai Historical Park
Thailand has a diverse landscape, and you can enjoy its beauty and galore of one of its many national parks. Some of these parks are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
You can enjoy many fun activities here; the most popular are of course hiking and biking. There are excellent paths, and you can book a tour of exploring them independently.
Most Famous National Parks in Thailand
Doi Inthanon National Park- Home to Thailand’s Highest Mountain Peak
- Location: Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand
- Contact Number: +66 53 355 728
- Timings: 5:30am to 6:30pm
- Suggested Duration: Approx. 3 hours
- Tour Price: Starting Price is approx. INR 3500/- Per Person
- Trip Advisor Rating: 4.5/5
Khao Yai National Park- A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Asian largest monsoon forest.
- Location: Pak Phli, Thailand
- Contact Number: +66 86 092 6529
- Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
- Suggested Duration: 8-10 hours or however long the tour takes
- Tour Price: Starting Price is approx. INR 7500/- Per Person
- Trip Advisor Rating: 4/5
Sai Yok National Park- Home to numerous caves, rare animals, waterfalls for you to explore and discover.
- Location: Kanchanaburi, Thailand
- Contact Number: +66 81 920 7596
- Timings: 7 am to 7 pm
- Entry Fees: Approx. INR 400/- Per Person
- Trip Advisor Rating: 4/5
Khao Sok National Park- The Crowning Prince of Southern Thailand
- Location: Surat Thani, Thailand
- Contact Number: +66 81 270 7763
- Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
- Suggested Duration: 8 hours
- Tour Price: Starting Price is approx. INR 5000/- Per Person
- Trip Advisor Rating: 4.5/5
10. Shop ’til you Drop!
Chatuchak Market
Do we need to tell you why? This is probably the number one thing we got to Thailand and for a good reason. You can find anything from a pin to an elephant at a Thai market. In addition to loading up on cheap knock-offs of everything, make sure you explore some of the locally made bamboo furniture, pottery, silks, silverware, wooden carvings and handicrafts.
Markets in Thailand
Amarin Plaza
- Opening Hours: 9 am to 9 pm
- Location: 96-502 Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok, Thailand.10330 Thailand
- Nearest BTS: Chidlom Chatuchak Friday Night Market
B-Gallery Fashion Mall
- Opening Hours: 10 am to 9 pm
- Location: Walk Up Phetchaburi Soi 21 from Platinum Mall or down the same road from Baiyoke Tower.
City Complex Pratunam
- Opening Hours: 10 am to 11 pm
- Location: Soi Phetchaburi 21 (Kanchana), Khwaeng Thanon Phaya Thai, Khet Ratchathewi, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand
- Contact Number: +66 84 551 3910
So here you have one of the most exhaustive list of things to do in Thailand. Think we may have missed some? Do let us know in the comments! We would love to hear from you
About Author
Ratna Sehgal
A day dreamer by nature and writer by choice, Ratna is a movie buff and has an undying penchant for food. She is an avid reader and a dog lover. Her ultimate dream is to travel places and own a house in a secluded country like Bhutan.