Top Vacation Spots in Thailand

After much deliberation, you’ve finally decided on Thailand for your next vacation. Well, congratulations - you’ve made a great choice. This stunning country is the number one destination spot in all of Southeast Asia! Now it’s time to iron out the details and hone in on the top vacation spots in Thailand.

Whether it’s beach life, ancient architecture, mesmerizing landscapes or a foodie fantasy that’s luring you there, everyone is sure to find a slice of their own version of heaven on their Thailand vacation.
 

Here are the top 25 vacation spots in Thailand everyone must see!

Being one of the most popular cities in the world, anyone heading to Thailand is sure to make plans to explore Bangkok. The question is, how much time will you spend there? It all depends on what you’re in the mood for, and what kind of traveler you are.

Bangkok is a loud and frenetic city, so get ready to have all your 5 senses indulged. Luckily, this top travel destination has got something to offer to pretty much everyone. For those seeking the complete Thai culinary experience, you are right at the center.

What to see and do in Bangkok:

• See the gold-leaf covered reclining Buddha

• Visit Khao San Road to dive into the party scene

• Stop at Chatuchak Market for some shopping

• Marvel at the Royal Palace

• Sign up for a food-tasting city tour via tuk-tuk

• Take a stroll through Lumpini Park (The best time to go is early morning or just before sunset)

• Experience the grandeur of Wat Arun temple and Wat Benchamabophit (the marble temple)

Dating back to 1350, Ayutthaya is a hidden archeological gem overflowing with Buddhist temples, monasteries, and archaic monuments. Right at the heart of Ayutthaya city, you’ll find Ayutthaya historical park, a must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dive right into Siam’s rich history as you walk among these ruins encompassed by a serene backdrop of ancient trees.

Apart from these impressive historical masterpieces, you can find plenty of other tourist attractions like the Chao Phrom Market, which has been around since Ayuttaya was the capital of Siam; or the more recent Ayodhaya floating market.

What to see and do in Ayutthaya:

• Scout through the Historic City of Ayutthaya

• Witness the splendor of Wat Mahathat, Wat Yai Chai Mang Khon, Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet

• Stroll through the Chao Phrom Market

• Check out the Ayutthaya National Art Museum

• Shop at the Ayodhaya floating market

Nestled in the misty mountains of the north, Chiang Mai’s quaint charm will steal your heart and easily prove to be one of the best vacation spots in Thailand.

The city was originally founded in 1296 as the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom. Remnants of its past are evidenced by the crumbling walls partially enveloping what is referred to as the “old city.” Ancient temples stand alongside modern buildings, successfully uniting past and present.

Within the old city parameters, you’ll find an abundance of cute coffee shops, cafés, restaurants, boutique guesthouses, and backpacker hostels, all tucked away within adorable little alleyways. These are the more tourist-ridden areas and prices tend to be higher here.

Venturing out of that old city center you’ll get into more local Thai residential neighborhoods featuring street food markets and temples.

Finally, on the rural remote peripheries of Chiang Mai, you’ll find a host of outdoor sports attractions along with cultural sightseeing opportunities.

What to see and do in Chiang Mai:

• Explore temples like Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara, Wat Pha Lat and Wat Phra Singh

• Take a meditative stroll through the expansive and serene grounds of Wat Umong

• Take in the natural splendor of Royal Park Rajapruek

• Go shopping at the Night Bazaar

• Climb up to Doi Suthep temple

• Care for the elephants at Kanta Elephant Sanctuary

• Take a trek to Mae Sa Waterfall

• Spend the day at the Doi Pui Mong Hill Tribe Village

A remote mountainous region neighboring the border of Myanmar, Mae Hong Son has much to offer those looking for a laid-back but cultural experience. This super-chill province is easily accessible from Chiang Mai and awards visitors with striking mountainous landscapes, lush valleys, and plenty of cascading waterfalls.

Mae Hong Son is high on the list of places to visit for outdoor adventures like hiking, climbing, kayaking, rafting, tubing, and cave exploring. You can also meet the hill-tribe people and peruse through their colorful handmade crafts.

What to see and do in Mae Hong Son:

• Cross the Sutongpe Bridge for stunning landscapes

• Visit the sweet Chinese village of Moo Ban Rak Thai (Mae Aw)

• Have a moment of deep reflection at Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu

• Enjoy the Mae Hong Son Walking Street Night Market

• Trek to Khun Korn Waterfall

Also a city in northern Thailand, Chiang Rai is situated near the border of Laos and Myanmar. Chang Rai possesses a more down-to-earth vibe than its sister province, Chiang Mai, but still holds all the historical and cultural appeal. Visit an elephant sanctuary, view the famed White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), located just outside the city, or take a stroll through the Night Bazar.

Don’t miss out on northern Thailand’s well known Khao Soi dish, which is associated with the Chiang Rai region. Indulge in a steaming bowl of this creamy, coconut-based curry, which is served over soft-egg noodles, topped with crunchy deep-fried egg noodles and accommodated with a side plate consisting of freshly chopped onions, pickled vegetables, chili flakes, and lime.

What to see and do in Chiang Rai:

• Enjoy a bowl Khao Soi, the famous northern Thai dish

• Visit the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

• Visit Wat Rong Seur Ten (Blue Temple)

• Enjoy an afternoon with some lovable elephants at Elephant Valley Thailand

• Check out the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar

Even those who have never visited have heard of the famed and vibrant coastal city Pattaya, located just 147km outside of Bangkok - it’s among the top Thailand destinations. Pattaya is prized as a party city, brimming with nightlife excitement, daytime sports adventures, walking markets, and water parks. There’s even a Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, for the ultimate tourist experience.

Pattaya, however, is also a showcase for sites of natural awe, like the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and Buddha Mountain (Khao Chi Chan). A heart-stirring panorama of Pattaya’s crescent bay can be observed at Khao Pattaya View Point on Pratumnak Hill. This is a highly touristic spot, so be prepared for hoards of people waiting to capture that exact majestic shot.

What to see and do in Pattaya:

• Take a walk through Nooch Tropical Garden

• Connect with your inner truth at The Sanctuary Of Truth

• Slip and slide at Ramayana Water Park

• Go to Buddha Mountain (Khao Chi Chan)

• Head to Khao Pattaya View Point on Pratumnak Hill for a gorgeous panoramic shot

Pai has simply got to be on your list of where to go in Thailand. Many will agree that there’s something truly enchanting about this snug little city that dwells at the foot of the mountains of Northern Thailand, about 3 hours northwest of Chiang Mai.

Though Pai attracts heaps of backpacker tourists each year, it still manages to provide a quiet and serene setting on the peripherals of the town for those wishing to get away from the hubbub. You’ll find plenty of affordable guesthouses and hostels in the city where the action is, or on the outskirts surrounded by nature.

Soak in one of Pai’s many hot springs, witness stunning vantage points, challenge yourself to a hike through vibrant greenery, or take a scooter ride to Pam Bok Waterfall.

What to see and do in Pai:
 

• Challenge yourself to a trek across Pai Canyon

• Soak in Pai Hot Springs

• Hike to Pam Bok and Mae Yen Waterfalls

• Visit the Big Buddha statue

• Learn how to defeat your most worthy opponent at Nam Yang Kung Fu Retreat Day Courses

Phuket is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, if not the planet. Of its 40 dazzling beaches, the most exquisite ones include silky white sands and reside along the west coast, accompanied by high-end seaside resorts, spas, and restaurants. These popular west coast beaches include Patong, Karon, Kata, Kamala, and Bangtao.

Despite being distinguished for its beaches and stunning viewpoints, Phuket also has a quaint historic old town to meander through and features iconic cultural attractions like Wat Chalong temple and the Phuket Big Buddha.

If you want to see some of the most beautiful sunsets in Thailand, check out the Laem Phromthep Viewpoint.

Phuket is also the ideal spot in which to go island hopping to Koh Phi Phi, Similan Islands, Coral Island, Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island), Surin Islands, Racha Yai Island, and Mai Thon Island.

What to see and do in Phuket:

• Stroll through the Sunday Walking Street Market

• Hang out at Monkey Hill

• Enjoy good music, food and drink on Bangla Road

• Visit Wat Chalong temple

• Lounge on one of Phuket’s many beaches

• Climb to the Big Buddha of Phuket

• Explore Old Phuket Town

• Plan an excursion to nearby islands like Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, and Similan Islands

Highly developed and touristic, Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island and chock-full of luxury resorts, posh spas, plus plenty of outdoor activities to take part in.

Despite its reputation as one of the most expensive destination spots in Thailand, you can still do Samui on a budget if you know where and how to lodge. Luxury travelers will find their element in one of Samui’s many fancy beachside resorts along the Chaweng and Lamai Beaches, while budget travelers can grab a more simple beachside bungalow along the more quiet south and west coast of Samui.

This island has a broad appeal that’s sure to capture everyone’s interest. To fully experience Samui, it’s suggested to have your own mode of transportation.

What to see and do in Samui:

• Climb up to the Golden Big Buddha statue

• Discover Chaweng Beach and the Walking Street

• Hang out at the more chill Lamai Beaches

• Roam through Bophut’s Fisherman Village

• Explore Secret Buddha Garden

• Take a trek to Namuang Waterfall

• Spend time at Hin Ta and Hin Yai, Lamai Beach (Grandpa and Grandma Rocks)

An increasingly popular destination spot is the elephant-head shaped island known as Koh Chang. Located in the Gulf of Thailand near the western border of Cambodia, this sensational island consists mostly of dense steep jungles, rainforests, and mountainous terrains.

It’s the kind of place through which you can take energizing jungle treks, explore waterfalls and partake in a number of different water sports. It also provides the ultimate beach experience for those who seek it.

Being more of a rugged and far less developed terrain than bigger islands like Phuket and Samui, Koh Chang is one of the best destinations in Thailand for those seeking an island with less tourism. As a side note, you will need to have your own transportation if you truly wish to discover the magic of Koh Chang.

Whether your budget is big or small, Koh Chang has plenty of accommodations ranging from backpacker beach huts to luxury resorts. All in all, it’s far more affordable compared to other island destinations in Thailand.

What to see and do in Koh Chang:

• Bask in the sun at Khlong Prao Beach, White Sand Beach, Kai Bae Beach, and Lonely Beach

• Trek to Klong Plu Waterfall, Than Mayom Waterfall, and Khlong Nonsi Waterfall

• View an amazing sunset at Kae Bae Viewpoint or Chai Chet Beach

• Visit Wat Salak Phet Temple

• Have a blast at the Zip N Zorb Adventure Park

• Enjoy the quietude of Wai Chaek Beach

Located just 73 kilometers from Phuket airport, the Khao Lak region is a super convenient and easy vacation spot to reach. Considering how close it is to other lively coastal destinations, it’s surprisingly quieter, offering secluded beaches and more family-oriented activities. So if an exotic nightlife and a thriving party scene are what you’re after, this isn’t the vacation spot for you!

Khao Lak is a tranquil resort destination with beachfront accommodation and impressive white sandy beaches that stretch out for miles.

While this region may have been deeply devasted by the 2004 Tsunami, it’s certainly made a comeback with dozens of newly established and refurbished resorts on location. To learn more about the extent of the Tsunami damage and the lives lost, pay a visit to Khao Lak’s 813 Tsunami Memorial Park.

Other activities include horseback riding lessons at Khao Lak Horse Club, the Jungle Safari at The Khao Lak Park, and a trek to the Chong Fah Waterfall.

What to see and do in Khao Lak:

• Take a hike to Ton Chong Fa Waterfall and Ton Pring Waterfall

• Visit the International Tsunami Museum

• Check out the Moo Moo Cabaret show bar

• Enjoy White Sand Beach and Coconut Beach

• Take a dive and see amazing aquatic life and coral reefs at Richelieu Rock

• Visit Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park

• Take horseback riding lessons at Khao Lak Horse Club

The lovely town of Kanchanaburi is located in west Thailand, a few hours away from Bangkok, and packed with numerous natural and historical attractions. While it’s well known for its famous ‘Bridge over the River Kwae’ (Death Railway), built by prisoners of WWII, it offers many more other incredible experiences to the wanderlust traveler.

For the history buffs, sites including the Thailand Burma Railway Centre & Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the JEATH War Museum and the Hellfire Pass & Memorial Museum will pique interest.

Nature lovers - you’ll fall in love with Kachanaburi’s national parks, including Erawan National Park, Khuean Srinagarindra National Park, and Sai Yok Yai Waterfall. For the ultimate blend of history and nature, check out Prasat Muang Singh National Park, a historic site with ancient Khmer ruins.

Of course, you can’t visit Thailand without making plans to encounter some majestic elephants. You can care for Thailand’s most revered creature at ElephantsWorld.

What to see and do in Kanchanaburi:
 

• Visit the Thailand Burma Railway Centre

• Take a walk through the Kanchanaburi War Cemetary

• Glimpse into the past at JEATH War Museum

• Enjoy the blissful energy of Khuean Srinagarindra National Park

• Trek to Sai Yok Yai Waterfall

• Dive into ancient history at Prasat Muang Singh

• Make friends with some lovable creatures at ElephantsWorld

Another less crowded and less developed gem you must make time for is the island district on Thailand’s Andaman coast known as Koh Lanta. Despite being less developed, it still manages to provide all the exemplary facilities one would need to get by easily for a relaxing vacation experience.

With its laid back atmosphere, Koh Lanta is a haven for those on all budget sizes. It’s a notably large island and there’s much to explore - having your own mode of transportation is the best way to get around. You can easily rent a motorbike.

Activities you can find on this island include snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and yoga.

What to see and do in Koh Lanta:

• Engage in activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and yoga

• Visit and support the non-profit organization, Lanta Animal Welfare (LAW)

• Explore Khao Mai Kaew Cave

• Chill at Long Beach, one of the longest and most attractive beaches on Koh Lanta

• Meander through Koh Lanta Old Town

• Have some relaxation time at quieter southern beaches like Kantiang Bay, Waterfall Bay (Ao Klong Jark) and Bamboo Bay (Ao Mai Pai)

A small island in the Andaman sea near Thailand’s border with Malaysia, Koh Lipe is the perfect getaway for nature lovers. The island is covered with lush vegetation and is lined with beautiful beaches with clear and calm waters.

Koh Lipe is not as crowded as other popular islands of the country. The most common way to reach Koh Lipe is to take a ferry from Pak Bara. During the peak season (October to June), ferries and speed boats to the island are also available from Ko Lanta, Phi Phi, and some other places.

Koh Lipe offers varied experiences, from nightlife to nature walks, to soothe your senses.

What to see and do in Koh Lipe:

• Have some leisure time at Sunrise Beach, Pattaya Beach, or Sunset Beach

• Go diving or snorkeling in sparkling aqua waters

• Stroll through the Walking Street

• Enjoy the nightlife, especially at Maya Bar

• Take a trip to the neighboring Tarutao National Marine Park

• Sign up for a boating excursion to nearby islands

• Relish the amazing local cuisine

Located on the Gulf of Thailand less than 200 km from Bangkok, Hua Hin is the most popular getaway for the city's residents. The small beach town of about 60,000 people is also the favorite summer retreat of Thai royals.

Hua Hin is more family-friendly compared to other popular destinations of Thailand. Have you got enough time? Because there's a lot to do here. Relax at the powdery sand beaches, indulge in delicious seafood, or go shopping at the beautiful night bazaars in the city. Luxury resorts, beach guest houses, and budget hotels offer ample options to stay.

What to see and do in Hua Hin:

• Shop at the Cicada art and craft markets

• Meet the lovable elephants at Hutsadin Elephant Foundation

• Take pleasure in wine tasting at Monsoon Valley Vineyard

• Splash around at Vana Nava Water Jungle

• Indulge all the senses at Hua Hin’s Night Bazaars

• Take a horseback trip to the temple atop Chopsticks Hill (Khao Takiab)

• Lounge at the beaches and seaside restaurants

Koh Tao, or 'Turtle Island', is one of the better-connected tourist islands of Thailand. It has good air connectivity, with Chumphon and Ko Samui being the nearest airports. There onwards, you can ferry to Koh Tao from Ko Samui, Surat Thani, and Koh Phangan.

Beautiful beaches, soothing viewpoints, and vibrant nightlife of the beaches pull visitors from all over the world. Lodgings are available for all sorts of budgets; even backpackers are welcome.

Koh Tao is known as a diver’s island, with several diving establishments set up there. Be prepared to meet divers from all over the world, including free divers.

An assortment of Thai and international cuisine offered at Mae Haad and Sairee Beach will help you satiate the foodie in you.

With popular beaches and restaurants, the western part of the island is generally bustling with tourists. To spend some relatively calm time, head to the eastern shores of the island.

What to see and do in Koh Tao:

• Relax at Sairee Beach and Mae Haad

• Have some Flying Trapeze Adventures

• Launch off the rocks and go snorkeling at Ao Tanot Bay

• Take a scuba diving course

• Challenge yourself to some rock climbing

• Escape to the silence of Chalok Baan Khao

• Take a trip to Koh Nang Yuang

• Join some night parties on the beaches

Krabi is one of the most beautiful places in Thailand and a fast-growing tourist hotspot. This coastal district in southern Thailand is famous for its beaches, limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and numerous surrounding islands. With its own airport, getting to Krabi couldn't be easier.

Krabi Town has a lot to offer, including baths and spas for a relaxing experience. Railay Beach and the neighboring Ao Nang Beach are the most popular beaches in the area. There's a very photogenic lagoon hidden in the limestone cliffs at the Railay Beach you must see.

If you're a party lover, head to the Old West Bar or the Ao Nang Center Point. Also, don't forget to shop at the Night Bazaars of the city.

What to see and do in Krabi:

• Enjoy the local cuisine and seafood

• Take a dip at Saline Hot Spring, Khlong Thom

• Peruse through the Krabi Weekend Night Market

• Engage in water adventures sports like diving, wakeboarding, and snorkeling

• Explore the caves at Railay Beach

• Visit the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)

• Take boat trips to nearby islands such as Phi Phi

• Experience nature at national parks

Located on the Yom, a tributary of the Chao Phraya, Sukhothai lies about 400 km north of Bangkok. Direct flights to Sukhothai are available from Bangkok.

The town is of great historical importance, with many experts believing it to be the birthplace of the Thai civilization. Being much older than Ayutthaya, another historical town, Sukhothai boasts of nearly two hundred ancient sites and temples that attract history buffs from all over the world. Most of these monuments have been restored in the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO designated heritage site. The beautiful light and sound show at the park adds tremendously to the experience.

What to see and do in Sukhothai:

• Take a trek into the mountains

• Explore beautiful waterfalls

• Take part in the Loy Krathong festival (November)

• Visit Wat Mahathat and Wat Si Chum

Located near Koh Tao and Koh Samui, there are two main ways to get to Koh Phangan; either from Koh Samui or from Surat Thani by ferry.

This is where you need to head right away if you are a party animal - or a yoga enthusiast.

That may seem contradictory, but Koh Phangan has always had somewhat of a split personality. On the one hand, it’s known for its all-night full moon beach parties; on the other, it’s the place to go for yoga retreats and yoga teacher training courses.

Most of the lively parties are organized in Haad Rin and Baan Tai, while the quieter yoga areas are north along the west coast.

With a big portion of the island being comprised of mountainous jungle, many of its visitors go on lengthy jungle hikes. There are several gorgeous waterfalls to see. Fishing is an important part of the local economy, and you can get in touch with the locals to go on a fishing trip.

Although not as developed as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan has a fantastic nightlife and some great bars. Jam Bar, Infinity Beach Club, and Merkaba are the more famous ones. The island is surrounded by clear and calm waters that are perfect for diving or snorkeling.

What to see and do in Koh Phangan:

• Hang out at Seaboard Bungalows for a chill beach party (check their Facebook page to confirm dates)
• Go snorkeling or diving at Koh Ma
• Lounge at the stunning Koh Raham restaurant, where you can also do some snorkeling around the area
• Take a day trip to Thong Nai Pan and chill at the beach
• Get a Thai massage on one of many stunning beaches
• Go on an ATV trek
• Attend one of Phangan's many parties, like Fullmoon, Halfmoon, Samsara, Loilay, Lighthouse, Eden, or Lost Paradise.

A sub-district of Ko Kut district in the Trat province, Koh Mak is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand. The island is named after the Areca Nut which is extensively cultivated here.

Koh Mak is not as developed as the nearby Koh Samui or the neighboring Koh Kood. There are no bars and pubs, and you won't find any loud music here. Nightlife is almost non-existent. The interior of the island is mostly agrarian, covered with coconut and rubber plantations.

There isn't much to do here other than a couple of beaches. Even those beaches aren't the best as per Thai standards. However, Koh Mak still manages to provide the perfect setting for those yearning for more chill island vibes.

What to see and do in Koh Mak:

• Observe the beautiful sunset on the bay at Suan Yai

• Chill on the beach at Suan Yai

• Participate in sustainable activities such as 'Trash Hero'

• Relax on the many secluded islands nearby

• Take in the splendor of Ao Kao beach

• Relax with some yoga and meditation classes

• Take up diving and snorkeling

An archipelago located between the island of Phuket and the Andaman coast, the Phi Phi Islands are among the most popular ones in Thailand. Getting there is easy, as they are well connected to the Thai mainland - regular services to the islands are available from the town of Krabi.

Ko Phi Phi Le and Ko Phi Phi Don are the main islands of the group, each with popular beaches. These islands form a part of the beautiful Hat Nopparat Thara-Ko Phi Phi National Park.

Koh Phi Phi saw a tourism boom after it was first popularized in the west through the British film, 'The Beach'. The islands underwent rapid redevelopment after being ravaged by the Tsunami in 2004.

Steep limestone cliffs, white sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters make for some breathtaking scenery on these islands. However, the real crowning beauty of Koh Phi Phi is Maya Bay. These islands, being a part of a protected environment, abound with coral reefs and other endangered marine life.

Diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are also very popular with tourists here.

Khao Sok National Park is probably one of the most beautiful nature reserves you will ever visit. Surat Thani and Phuket are the most preferred airports to reach it, while the onward journey is by bus or train.

Located in the southern part of Thailand, the park is an expanse of dense evergreen rainforests that support some rare and exotic wildlife. Its famous limestone masts rising from the Cheow Lan lake, an artificial lake in the park, are truly a marvel to look at. Elephant safari is the most popular activity in the park, however, many visitors also prefer exploring the park on foot.
 

Khao Sok isn't all just about wildlife and pristine jungles - the Sok river and the Cheow Chan lake offer a chance to indulge in varied watersports like rafting, kayaking, or boating.

If you have had enough of the beaches and are looking for a change of scenery, Khao Sok could be the perfect escape for you.

Named after the Samet trees that abound there, Koh Samet is an offshore island off the coast of Rayong in the Gulf of Thailand. Being close to Bangkok, Koh Samet is a popular destination for foreign tourists and a favorite weekend getaway for the city's residents.

Most of the island falls under the limits of the Khao Laem Ya–Mu Ko Samet National Park. The island features some stunning beaches like Hat Sae Kaeo, Ao Phai, Cape Kut, and others. Koh Samet checks all the boxes that a perfect seaside destination should - beautiful beaches, water sports, and an awesome nightlife.

When it comes to budget, there’s a wide range of accommodations available on the island. Luxury resorts are available and can cater to upscale guests. For those seeking a more quiet destination, Ao Phraya on the western shore is a peaceful area away from crowds.

One of the novelties of Koh Samet is that you can join fishing crews on their deep-sea expeditions.

What to see and do in Koh Samet:

• Relax away from the crowds at Ao Phraya on the western shore
• Join a fishing crew on their deep-sea expedition
• Enjoy stunning beaches like Hat Sae Kaeo, Ao Phai, and Cape Kut

Huge rocky cliffs, limestone formations, turquoise waters, powdery beaches, reefs, and lagoons - that's Phang Nga Bay for you.

A marine national park and an important Ramsar site, the bay lies off the coast of Phuket. Near-vertical pillars of limestone emerging out of crystal clear waters of the bay make for perfect boat trips. There's so much to do here that staying for a day is an absolute recommendation.

As with most Thai islands, water sports such as boating and kayaking are a thing here. Also, don't forget to see the 'Hongs’ - a collection of collapsed caves surrounded by towering cliffs.

What to see and do in Phang Nga Bay:

• Trek to Koh Tapu (James Bond Island)

• Visit the Sea Gypsies village, known as Koh Panyi

• Take a kayak trip to surrounding reefs and caves

• Visit the traditional village of Koh Panyee

• Observe the gorgeous sunrise at Samet Nangshe Viewpoint

• Take a cruise on the bay

• Spend some time at Phang Nga Elephant Park

• Indulge in fresh seafood at local villages

Located in western Thailand, this beautiful national park is situated in the lush greenery of the Tenasserim Hills and is an ecological paradise of sorts. It is named after the mythological elephant Airavat, the ride of Indra.

Wildlife such as elephants, antelope, and rare species of birds can be spotted here, but surprisingly, wildlife is not the chief attraction. The crown goes to something extremely popular among tourists: the huge, seven-tiered waterfall known as Erawan Waterfall. Try trekking to the upper levels of the fall if you want some solitude, as the lower tiers of the fall are easier to reach and overcrowded with tourists. The Khao Hin Lan Pee trail will take you to the fifth tier.

Also worth visiting are the Tham Phra That caves, in which limestone formations and a small Buddhist shrine are the main attractions. It's highly recommended to accommodate a park ranger if you want a full experience of the area.

With so many lovely destinations in Thailand to travel to, you may need to plan a few trips there just to get the most out of this alluring country. Trust it when we tell you: one short trip won’t be enough! These days, however, more and more people are exploring the art of slow travel. This is perhaps the best way to burrow into a particular country’s essence and grandeur. Maybe that’s how you should experience Thailand! Be sure to check out these 25 top vacation spots in Thailand and let us know how your experience was in the comments below.