Known as being the Land of Smiles, Thailand is a stomping ground that attracts diverse travellers. From those seeking relaxation on the wonderful heavenly beaches to the diehard backpackers who are zealous about trekking and hiking. Thailand is a land of contrasts and wonders that never ceases to amaze, suitable for every need.
Royal palaces, dream beaches, national parks and golden temples allow you to immerse yourself in a fascinating and ancient culture and give you an unforgettable trip.
For anyone who wants to plan a trip to the Land of Smiles, here are eight things to see in Thailand on your two-week tour.
A Visit To The Ayutthaya Archaeological Park
The ancient capital of Thailand, Ayutthaya, is a proper archaeological site with over 300 temples and palaces. Most tourists head to the archaeological park nested in central Thailand to rediscover its architectural masterpieces, as well as its history and glory. When surrounded by these ruins, you can easily slide into cogitations of the grandeur and magnificence that once distinguished the kingdom of Ayutthaya.
In 1991, Ayutthaya Park was officially recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It contains some must-see places including Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the important complex of temples that originally housed the statue of Buddha coated with 250kg of gold. In addition, the park includes the ancient temple of Wat Ratcha Burana, Wat Phra Ram and much more! Among the unmissable things, is the Wat Phra Mahathat temple with its Buddha head embedded into the roots of the sacred tree.
Shopping At Chatuchak Market In Bangkok
Bangkok’s largest market is by far the undisputed realm of local Thai shopping. It consists of more than 15,000 stalls selling street food, clothing, handicrafts and books. The perfect place for all shopping lovers and a spot to buy souvenirs at affordable prices. An unbiased pointer? Put on your fanciest smile and haggle for unbeatable deals!
Fun fact: the Chatuchak Market is only open at weekends. One thing to keep in mind if you do not want any last-minute nasty surprises!
The Statue Of Wat Si Chum Buddha In Sukhothai
What to see in Thailand? Wat Si Chum for sure! The true pearl of Thailand is the most characteristic and photographed temple of Sukhothai, and it houses one of the most majestic statues of Buddha. Approaching the temple, you can see the Great Buddha even from afar, who gives a picturesque landscape reliving an ancient culture.
The Buddha, called Phra Achana (translated “He who is not afraid”) is an imposing statue with a facial expression that simultaneously infuses strength and serenity to all passers-by.
Relaxation At The Phi Phi Islands And The Thai Beaches Of The Andaman Sea
Are you a thalassophile and can’t wait to relax on a paradise island with white beaches? Then Phi Phi Islands should be on your list of things to see in Thailand!
The Phi Phi Islands are a small archipelago in the Andaman Sea. They’re renowned for hosting the set of the film The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio.
The coast of the Andaman Sea does not just offer pure relaxation. For those in search of adventure, the islands of Krabi and Phuket province are the perfect layover. From snorkelling to kayaking, you can engage in a variety of activities and explore the beautiful crystal-clear backdrop that sets Thailand apart.
Chiang Mai Relaxing Massage
Thailand is renowned around the world for its traditional SPAs that offer a wide variety of treatments, from facials to holistic massages. That is why all travellers who visit Chiang Mai should try the traditional “nuad phaen boran” massage on their skin. Thai massage is a technique with very ancient origins. It combinines agitation, principles of the Ayurvedic Indian tradition and assisted postures of yoga. Whitout dubt, a heavenly massage ideal for pampering and relaxing after a long day of hiking.
The Beautiful Ang Thong Marine Park
Do not miss a fabulous excursion in the Ang Thong National Marine Park aboard a characteristic boat. The park consists of 42 small islands surrounded by unspoilt nature, dotted with lakes, emerald lagoons and karst mountains covered with vegetation.
A place of disarming beauty, with panoramic points ideal for taking memorable photos. Definitely at the top of the list of things to see in Thailand!
It is a protected area, miles from the mass tourism itineraries. For this reason, it’s a gem you cannot miss.
Fun fact: you can often spot dolphins in the park. So pay attention and keep your eyes peeled!
Royal Palace In Bangkok
Bangkok, called Krung Thep or “city of angels” by the Thais, is the metropolis where two souls live together: the chaotic, crowded, full-of-life one, as well as the mystical and spiritual one, which is steeped in its ancient origins.
Visiting Bangkok and not visiting the Grand Royal Palace is like going to New York without seeing the Statue of Liberty. If you want to plan a trip to the Thai capital, you cannot miss this visit!
Reduced from the country’s glorious past, the fabulous Royal Palace is a complex of buildings and has been the architectural symbol of the Thai royal family for 150 years.
The complex is divided into 4 courtyards:
internal: reserved only for the king and the women, therefore for the wives, concubines and daughters of the monarch;
central: with palaces and the Chakri Maha Prasat Hall, where the king held the hearings and gathered the court;
external: with buildings home to the Treasury and the Royal Guard;
Wat Phra Kaew: The so-called “Temple of the Emerald Buddha” is the home of one of Buddhism’s most revered statues, the Holy Emerald Buddha.
Trekking In The Jungle To Reach The Waterfall Of Paradise
Do you think Koh Phangan is all beaches, yoga and temples? Not exactly. It is much more. It is an immense tropical rural area with some of the most evocative waterfalls in Thailand.
On one hand, a visit during the dry season will reveal breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. On the other hand, visiting Koh Phangan in the rainy season will give you a complete experience of the Thai waterfall. Here you’ll see water basins fed by impetuous streams of crystal clear water.
The waterfall is located near the village Chaloklum. To reach it, take the right immediately after the restaurant “Kika Splace” and follow the signs that indicate “Paradise Waterfall”.
The Paradise waterfall is perfect for anyone who wants to experience an adventure in perfect Tarzan style. From the ropes hanging from the protruding branches of a tree you can swing suspended in the void and dive into the water from an impressive height!
Please note: for safety reasons it is somewhat unwise to dive into the pool from high up during the dry season when the water is shallow.
No trip to Thailand is done and dusted without hiking in the jungle to admire these natural beauties!
