Thailand has emerged as the hottest tourist magnets in the last two decades, and rightly so. The country offers everything that a tourist can think of including natural beauty, happening nightlife and entertainment scene, delicious food, and a lot more. However, most travelers have a very standard touristy itinerary that covers the usual Phuket, Pattaya or at max Koh Samui. All these locations are exceptionally beautiful and worth visiting, however, Thailand has much more to offer. If you want to get up close and personal with the unspoiled beauty of the country, then you should consider going off the beaten path and explore some of the hidden treasures.
Most of these destinations are largely undiscovered since they are not as commercially developed. That being said, their rawness makes them exceptionally beautiful ad worth visiting for people who are looking for a quaint secluded retreat.
Chiang Mai
Many people will tell you that Thailand is purely a place for beach lovers and there is nothing more to it. Although it is true that the country is largely sand and water, it still has a lot more to offer that goes undiscovered. In the far north of the country, a beautiful valley exists that is dominated by gorgeous rice paddies cultivated in terraces, lush green jungles, and a beautiful landscape. Unlike other tourist locations in the country, you will not find much commercial development. However, you will fall in love with the lovely treks, beautiful waterfall and a naturistic environment that is topped by a pleasant highland climate. You can book a Chiang Mai tour to explore nearby villages and other neighboring towns such as Pai and Chiang Rai. Alternatively, if you are coming from Singapore, you can check out a Singapore to Chiang Mai flight here.
Ayutthaya
If you are a history buff who would love to explore some ancient ruins that speak volumes about the grandeur of the kingdom’s majestic past, Ayutthaya is your place to be. The town is very close to the capital city of Bangkok and is easily accessible by road and rail. It is very quaint and serene with a minimal commercial activity that makes it ideal for those who wish to relax and have some time mingling with the local villagers. Ayutthaya is also a great place for people who are into photography and architecture.
Riley
If beaches remain the primary purpose of your trip to Thailand but you want to escape the crowd and noise at the touristy islands, Riley is an ideal location for a quick retreat. Riley is located in Krabi, right in the neighborhood of Phuket, so if either Phuket or Krabi is on your itinerary, you can easily head to Rily via a long tail boat. The island is only accessible by boats and does not have any significant motor activity, which makes it very close to nature. There are wooden chalets and comfortable resorts on the sandy beaches overlooking the clear Andaman waters. It is an ideal location for some quiet relaxation, photography, snorkeling and watching sunrise and sunsets.
Lampang
Lampang is yet another exceptionally pleasant mountainous retreat away from the humid beaches. The town is not only loved for its cooler weather, but also for its calmness and minimal modernization. You can explore the city on horse and carriage and enjoy the old rustic feel of the city. There are beautiful treks to explore and waterfalls and hot springs to take a dip. The town is also home to some of the best national parks and a well-kept elephant sanctuary
Tony Platz says
This looks like it would br a beautiful place to visit .
gloria patterson says
Truth if someone said I would pay for a vacation any where I never would have though about Thailand. But just this little bit about it makes me want to visit there. Not that I have the money but a girl can dream
Donna L Holder says
this would be great to visit
Melissa Cantu says
Thanks for sharing these . I might consider visiting Thailand !
Antoinette M says
Sounds like a beautiful destination!
Sue E says
I feel kind of numb in the head, because I have thought of going to China & Japan, but Thailand hasn’t entered my mind for a vacation. After reading your review, I would really like to visit this beautiful country!! I love that the land is untouched by modernization and is surrounded by water ?Plus I would love to get around on a horse and carriage and not be bothered by vehicles’ smoke and dirty air! How refreshing!! Definitely pin worthy! Thank you for sharing!
Dana Matthews says
Thailand is one of my bucket list desires. Lampang sounds like a wonderful site seeing visit.
Sarah L says
If I ever visit Thailand I will look for these places.
Tami Vollenweider says
Some gorgeous places to see! Too me I would like to check out Lampang,a quiter small town!!
Christina Gould says
What a beautiful building! I’ve never considered visiting Thailand. I’d love to go there now. Thanks for sharing!
Janet W. says
Thanks for sharing these! I’d love to visit Thailand one day!