Edited by: Bhawna Nijhawan
Summary: Thailand offers an abundance of sightseeing opportunities that cater to all types of travelers. Plan your trip to this enchanting country and embark on a journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Take a look at some of the best tourist spots in Thailand.
Thailand is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and has long been a favored destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. It is a Southeast Asian gem full of attractive sights that will satiate every traveler’s wanderlust. In this blog, I will take you on a virtual journey to explore the best sightseeing tourist spots in Thailand. Get ready to be enchanted by this gorgeous country and immerse yourself in its cultural wonders.
Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is one of the most popular sightseeing tourist spots in Thailand. The first thing that I saw when I entered the Grand Palace is Wat Phra Kaew, which is located in the center of the complex. The temple is a beautiful example of Thai architecture and is decorated with gold leaf and precious stones. An Emerald Buddha statue is present in the temple.
The Buddha is made of jade and is considered to be one of the most sacred Buddhist images in the world. The Grand Palace is open to the public from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, except on Mondays. The entry fee is 500 baht for adults and 200 baht for children.
Address: Grand Palace, Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
How to reach: Take the BTS Skytrain to the Saphan Taksin station and then walk to the Grand Palace
Things I like: Rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, the grandeur of the Emerald Buddha
Things I dislike: Crowded with tourists
Wat Arun
Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn, is a Buddhist temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. It was built in the 17th century and is a famous tourist spot in Thailand. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and is a popular pilgrimage site for Thai Buddhists too.
It is known for its colorful chedi, or stupa, which is decorated with porcelain tiles. Wat Arun is open to the public from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, except on Mondays. The entry fee is 50 baht for adults and 20 baht for children.
Address: Wat Arun Ratchawararam, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
How to reach: Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to the Tha Tien pier and then walk to Wat Arun.
Things I like: Historical significance, sunset view
Things I dislike: Limited access to the interior of Wat Arun
Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands are a group of islands located in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Krabi, Thailand. The Islands are renowned for their postcard-perfect beaches with soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
The stunning Maya Bay on Phi Phi island was featured in the movie “The Beach,” and is a must-visit sightseeing spot. However, as one of Thailand’s most famous destinations, accommodation near Phi Phi Islands can be more expensive compared to other places.
Address: Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand
How to reach: The Phi Phi Islands are located about 45 kilometers from Phuket and the easiest way to reach the islands is by ferry.
Things I like: Paradise-like beaches, crystal-clear waters, snorkeling, and diving opportunities
Things I dislike: Accommodation near Phi Phi is very expensive
Ayutthaya Historical Park
Ayutthaya Historical Park is a historical sightseeing tourist site featuring the remains of ancient temples, palaces, and other structures that once adorned the capital city. The park is divided into different zones, each housing a unique collection of ruins. Some of the notable sites within the park include Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet.
Ayutthaya Historical Park is a remarkable testament to Thailand’s rich cultural heritage I personally loved exploring the ruins of Ayutthaya, it surely provided a unique and immersive experience. The Ayutthaya Historical Park is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. For foreign tourists, the entry fee is 50 Baht per person.
Address: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
How to reach: Buses operate regularly from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) to Ayutthaya.
Things I like: UNESCO World Heritage Site, well-preserved ruins, peaceful ambiance
Things I dislike: Some temples inside Ayutthaya Historical Park may require separate entrance fees.
Chiang Mai Old City
Chiang Mai Old City is home to a number of temples, palaces, and museums. The most popular sightseeing tourist attractions in the old city include Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and the Chiang Mai Night Safari. If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai, I highly recommend visiting the old city.
It’s a beautiful and historic place, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Chiang Mai Old City itself does not have an entry fee, and you can explore the area freely. However, some specific attractions within the Old City, such as temples and museums, may have separate entrance fees.
Address: 100 Nakhon Ping, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
How to reach: Once you arrive in Chiang Mai, get to the old city by foot, bicycle, tuk-tuk, or taxi.
Things I like: Beautiful and historic city, home to several tourist attractions
Things I dislike: Lots of scams happen in the old city
James Bond Island
The island is officially known as Ko Tapu (Koh Tapu), but it is more commonly named James Bond Island after it was featured in the 1974 James Bond film, The Man with the Golden Gun. The tall limestone rock coming out of the sea is the star attraction of the island.
It is a sightseeing and picturesque spot for photos and a reminder of the famous movie scene. I also visited the nearby floating Muslim fishing village of Panyee, built on stilts over the water. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the traditional way of life of the local villagers.
Address: James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay, Phang Nga Province, Thailand
How to reach: You can reach the island by boat from Phuket or Krabi.
Things I like: Beautiful island, easy to reach
Things I dislike: The island is small, so there is not a lot to do there.
Erawan National Park
Erawan National Park offers a refreshing escape into nature’s embrace, where tourists can appreciate the beauty of pristine waterfalls, lush forests, and serene surroundings. The park is located in a mountainous area, so the weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to check the forecast before you go.
It is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but the best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as the park can get crowded during the middle of the day. The entry fee is payable at the entrance which is around 200-300 baht.
Address: Erawan National Park, Si Sawat District, Kanchanaburi 71250, Thailand
How to reach: Rent a car or hire a private taxi from Bangkok and drive to the park.
Things I like: Beautiful waterfalls, caves, and forests, Home to a variety of wildlife
Things I dislike: Some of the trails in the national park can be slippery and difficult to hike.
Railay Beach
Railay Beach offered a memorable experience that stayed with me long after I visited this tropical heaven. There are three main beaches in Railay: West Railay, East Railay, and Phra Nang Beach.
West Railay is the most popular beach for sightseeing and is also a great place to swim, sunbathe, and go rock climbing. East Railay is less crowded whereas Phra Nang Beach is home to a cave shrine dedicated to the sea goddess Phra Nang, and is again a popular sightseeing spot for tourists.
Address: Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi, Krabi 81000, Thailand
How to reach: To get to Railay Beach, take a long-tail boat from Ao Nang Beach.
Things I like: Beautiful beaches, Relaxing atmosphere
Things I dislike: There are very limited accommodation options nearby this beach.
Also Read :- Best Tourist Places to Visit in Thailand
Tips for Exploring the Best Sightseeing Tourist Spots in Thailand:
By keeping the following tips in mind, you can enhance your sightseeing experience in Thailand, making it more enjoyable, respectful, and memorable.
- Plan Ahead: Research and plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time and cover the best sightseeing spots in Thailand.
- Be Mindful of the Weather: Thailand has different weather patterns throughout the year. Consider the climate and seasonal factors when choosing the best time to visit specific attractions.
- Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of Thai culture and customs, especially when visiting temples and sacred tourist sites. Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering temples, and avoid inappropriate behavior.
- Watch for Scams: Be cautious of potential scams, especially in touristy spots. Use reputable and licensed tour operators to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Learn Basic Thai Phrases: Learning a few basic Thai phrases can go a long way in connecting with locals and showing respect for their language.
- Photography Etiquette: Ask for permission before taking photos of locals in the sightseeing tourist spots. Some places may have restrictions on photography.
- Be Open to Trying Local Food: Thai cuisine is diverse and delicious. Don’t hesitate to try local dishes from street food vendors and small eateries while sightseeing.
- Stay Safe: Exercise caution and keep your money & belongings secure, especially in crowded tourist spots.
- Respect Nature: When visiting national parks and natural attractions, follow designated trails and guidelines to protect the environment.
- Use Public Transport: Consider using public transportation like trains, metro, or local buses to navigate through cities and avoid traffic jams.
FAQs
What is the number one tourist spot in Thailand?
Grand Palace in Bangkok is one of the top tourist spots in Thailand. It is known for its stunning architecture, intricate details, and historical significance, making it a must-visit sightseeing tourist spot for travelers from all over the world.
What is the main tourist season in Thailand?
The main tourist season in Thailand is from November to February, also known as the cool and dry season. This is the peak season as the weather is generally at its best throughout the country, with warm days and cool nights.
How much money is enough for a Thailand trip?
The total cost of a Thailand trip can vary depending on various factors such as the duration of the trip, the type of accommodation, the activities planned, and personal preferences. A rough estimate for a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Thailand can range from 40,000 to 80,000 per person for a 1-week trip.
Leave a Reply