Thailand is one of the most prominent holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. Often regarded as the “Land of Smiles”, this tropical paradise is known for its mesmerising islands, sun-kissed beaches, vibrant marine life, enchanting temples, exquisite nightlife scene, and warm hospitality of its people. Thailand provides exquisite tropical vacations and is certainly more budget-friendly than its western counterparts. In the year 2022 alone, Thailand attracted more than 11 million tourists from all over the world. This massive figure is a testament to its tourist-friendly atmosphere and the ease of travel it offers. And with the number of amusement parks, elephant sanctuaries, museums, and shopping hubs, Thailand promises a fulfilling vacation for all.
Suggested Read: 10 Best Museums in Thailand to Visit and Songkran Festival Thailand 2024
So without further ado, let’s look at the best tourist places to visit in Thailand.
Places to visit Thailand with family and kids
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is a massive aquarium in Bangkok that is ideal for families and kids to visit. The aquarium is spread across an area of 10,000 square metres and houses around 400 marine species and 30,000 underwater creatures. There are feeding shows and exhibitions which offer an immersive experience of witnessing coral reefs, sharks, turtles, seahorses, penguins, and the newly added rainforest tour. The aquarium also provides activities such as a Glass Bottom Boat ride, 4D Cinema, diving with sharks and much more. The tickets are divided into three price categories: A single ticket costs THB 1,040/-, a big ticket costs THB 1250/- and a combo ticket costs THB 1775/- per person. Tip: Online booking of tickets will be much cheaper and can give you swift entry to the aquarium. Operating hours of the aquarium are from 10 AM to 8 PM.
Address: Siam Paragon Mall, 991 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Tiger Kingdom, Phuket
Get a unique and memorable chance to click photos with tigers at Tiger Kingdom in Kathu, Phuket. Upon visiting Tiger Kingdom, you can also learn about the conservation efforts made for tigers and about their natural behaviour. Apart from clicking photos, you can also feed tigers in the presence of a trainer. And if you feel scared of approaching tigers, you can watch them from far away eating, sleeping and playing. There is also an on-site restaurant which serves fantastic food and refreshing beverages to the visitors. It would take about 2 to 2.5 hours to explore the park. The easiest way to reach the tiger kingdom is via taxi, which costs THB 300 to 350 and takes 9 minutes. The operating hours are from 9 AM to 5:30 PM.
Address: 118/88 Moo 7, Kathu, Phuket, Thailand
Cost: Tiger cubs (2-3 Months) THB 700; Small tiger (4-8 Months) THB 500; Medium tiger (9-12
Months) THB 500; Big Cat (13-30 Months) THB 600.
Mahanakhon Skywalk, Bangkok
Watch the Bangkok skyline from Thailand’s highest 360-degree Observation Deck at 314 metres high. On reaching the top, you will see a glass tray floor at a height of 310 metres above the ground. (63 square metres) which is perfect for taking Instagram-worthy photos. It also has the fastest video-themed elevators in Thailand, which will take you to the 74th floor in a mere 50 seconds. Once you reach the top, you must cover your shoes with a throwaway shoe cover. All the loose items, such as watches, phones, and cameras, must be kept away from the glass tray. The glass tray has an official photo zone, especially reserved for clicking photos. The ticket price starts from 880 Thai Bahts.
Address: 114 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Rd, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum, Pattaya.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum is a place best enjoyed with family and friends. The Museum is a place which gives you both the thrills and the creeps with its haunted house, haunted hospital, infinity maze, 9DX theatre with moving seats and more! Its eccentric and quirky vibe draws many visitors in. Apart from the attractions mentioned above, the Museum also features Louis Tussaud’s Museum of Waxwork and the Museum of Oddities, which, like its name, houses odd and peculiar displays of a mask made of human skin, a human shrunken head, and some old torture devices. The operating hours of the Museum are from 11 AM to 10 PM.
Ticket Price: The ticket price for a single activity in Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum is THB 350/-
Location: 218 Beach Rd, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Places to visit in Thailand for Islands and Beaches
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is the third-largest archipelago situated in the Gulf of Thailand. It is one of the top tourist places to visit in Thailand. The island is blessed with many beautiful sun-kissed beaches, such as Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Taling Ngam Beach. The island caters to all kinds of travellers—from the ones looking for budget accommodation near the beachside to the ones looking for luxurious 5-star resort stays—Koh Samui has it all. The island’s famous fisherman’s village is a popular historical as well as a cultural tourist attraction. And apart from beaches, tourists can also enjoy water sports, yoga, Thai cooking classes, Muay Thai boxing, Thai spas, and shopping. For those who like to enjoy nightlife, Koh Samui beach parties, clubs, and night markets can easily mesmerise anyone. Over a period of time, Koh Samui has turned into an attractive tourist destination and a lively and exciting holiday spot in Thailand.
Coral Island
Koh Larn, or Coral Island, is one of the most visited islands in Thailand. Located around 7 kilometres away from Pattaya city, it is perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers. People who visit Thailand even for 3–4 days add Coral Island to their travel itinerary. Coral Island’s accessibility to many water sports, such as snorkelling and scuba diving, attracts many visitors. Besides, it boasts thriving colonies of colourful coral reefs, fish, and vibrant aquatic plants. It will take an average of 20 minutes to reach Coral Island from Pattaya on a speedboat.
Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands are an archipelago on the Phuket and Straits of Malacca coasts of Thailand. It is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Thailand. The island attracts many party enthusiasts, as it is particularly famous for its nightlife and beach parties. The larger islands with hotels and resorts are perfect for families, while the smaller islands are ideal for couples on a honeymoon. If you plan to visit Phi Phi Island, make sure to visit Tonsai Beach and Maya Bay Beach. The former is famous for its restaurants, bars, beach shacks, and water sports, while the latter is popular for scenic tropical beauty, aquamarine waters, and blacktip sharks. Maya Bay Beach has also garnered attention ever since the Hollywood film The Beach was filmed here. Visit Phi Phi Island for an exciting island getaway in Thailand. The best time to visit Phi Phi Island is from November to April.
Similan Island
Similan Island is a continental archipelago in the Andaman Sea off the coast of, and part of, Phang Nga Province in southern Thailand. It is renowned for its clear blue waters, spectacular marine life, and stunning landscapes above and below the waves. Similan Island is famous for its scuba diving sites. While scuba diving, you can spot manta rays, leopard sharks, giant frogfish, a healthy population of corals, and an exhilarating reef life.
Railay Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Krabi, Railay Beach is renowned for its limestone caves, rock climbing, and island hopping. Despite a heavy influx of tourists, the beach is relatively clean and well maintained. Many tourists like to enjoy kayaking and hiking. The beach has many restaurants and bars to satiate anyone’s hunger pangs.
Nai Harn Beach
Nai Harn Beach is a laid-back and small beach that has only a handful of beachfront hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars. This makes the beach ideal for those looking for relaxation and seclusion. The best time to visit Nai Harn Beach is from November to April, when the sea waves are relaxed and it is conducive for swimming and surfing. It is situated in the south of Kata Noi and the north of Promthep Cape.
Places to visit in Thailand for Couples
Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise, Bangkok
It is a luxury 5-star dinner cruise that offers unforgettable experiences. The cruise offers an exquisite experience of Thai culture. Couples can enjoy a romantic candlelight dinner while admiring Bangkok’s city lights and nighttime scenery. The quick and efficient service of the staff, a performance by a live band, and the delicious food served with warm hospitality are the cherry on top. The cruise has two decks: the lower one is an air-conditioned deck, and the upper one is an open-air deck. The cruising time begins at 7:15 PM and goes on until 9:15 PM.
Location: Asiatique Riverfront Pier
Kata Noi Beach, Phuket
A 700-metre-long beach with a stretch of white powdery sand spread across, the beach is considerably smaller in comparison to most beaches in Phuket. But it is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket, surrounded by resorts. The beach is a perfect place for couples to relax, as it’s not bustling with tourists. The azure waters of the sea are calm and inviting, especially in the months of November to April. One can enjoy swimming and snorkelling on this beach.
Address: Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Banyan Tree Spa, Phuket
Enjoy a relaxing couple spa session at the luxurious Banyan Tree Spa. It’s an award-winning spa centre in Phuket known for its exceptional massage therapies and wellness regimens. Choose anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes of massage to get rid of the travel fatigue and stress. You can also cherish the view of the garden with warm tea. The opening hours of the spa are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: 33, 33/27 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Amphur Talang, Phuket
Samet Nangshe Viewpoint, Phang Nga Bay
It is one of the most visited viewpoints in southern Thailand. If you are in Phang Nga Bay town, the view point is 40 km via car. You can take a taxi or a rental car to reach this point. The journey to the viewpoint might be tedious, but the scenic view you get to witness makes it all worthwhile. Once you reach the hilltop, you can walk further for 5 to 10 minutes to reach a point that gives a better view. There is a restaurant at the top of the hill that serves delicious food and coconut ice cream. Avoid wearing flip-flops or sandals; instead, wear sports shoes for walking uphill. The ticket price for this breathtaking viewpoint is approximately THB 50 per person.
Address: 9 3, Khlong Khian, Takua Thung District, Phang-nga
Hours: 4 AM to 12 AM (every day)
Erawan National Park, Kanchanaburi
Established in 1975, Erawan National Park in Thailand is home to lush, dense foliage and the mesmerising Erawan waterfalls. Named after Lord Indra’s elephant, Erawan, this national park is spread across an area of 550 square kilometres. It is a perfect place for couples to relax and soak up the beauty of nature. The highlight of the park is the 7-tier emerald waterfall, which cascades from a staircase-like structure. There is a dedicated camping site in the park that can be accessed by visitors. The park also provides parking and an overnight stay for camping. You can also rent sleeping bags, pillows, and mats from the visitor centre. The park opens from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. The entry fee to enter the park is THB 300 per person.
Address: Tha Kradan, Si Sawat District, Kanchanaburi 71250, Thailand
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand. It is an ultimate tropical destination for anyone looking for a relaxed escapade. To reach Koh Phangan, you can fly down to Surat Thani airport. The island is blessed with stunning sun-kissed beaches, mountains, waterfalls, a thriving population, and coral reefs. The famous Haad Rin beach in Koh Pangan is highly renowned for its full moon festivals. Apart from the full moon parties, the island offers opportunities for scuba diving and snorkelling. Avoid visiting Koh Phangan from the months of October until January, as the island receives monsoon rains.
Places to visit in Thailand – Temples and Religious site
Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok
Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is one of the important religious sites in Thailand. The temple itself is located inside the Grand Palace and houses an emerald stone Buddha. The temple is also a place of worship for the Thai monarchy and members of the royal family. The complex consists of a number of buildings within the precincts of the Grand Palace in the historical centre of Bangkok. The timing of the Wat Phra Kaew is from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 a.m. The ticket price to enter the temple is THB 500.
Address: Na Phra Lan Rd., Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Wat Chalong, Phuket
Wat Chaithararam, or Wat Chalong, is the largest Buddhist temple in Phuket. The latest structure on Wat Chalong’s grounds is a 60-metre-tall ‘Chedi’ that houses a splinter bone from Buddha. Beautiful murals depicting Buddha’s life, as well as numerous donated golden sculptures, adorn the walls and ceilings. Wat Chalong Chedi has three storeys, so walk all the way to the top-floor terrace for an aerial view of the whole temple grounds. Many locals and Buddhist devotees come to offer prayers in the temple. The timing of the temple is 8 AM to 5 PM and it opens every day. Make sure to follow the temple rules and dress modestly by covering your knees, shoulders, and midriff.
Address: Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd., Chalong, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Tiger Cave Temple, Krabi
Tiger Cave Temple is a revered Buddhist site located in the north-east of the temple. The temple’s name is a symbol of a tiger’s paw printed inside the temple’s cave. To reach the temple, you have to take a tedious flight of 1260 stairs. But once you reach the top, you will be greeted by a panoramic view of the surrounding lush rainforest and limestone cliffs. Along with the panoramic view, the gigantic statue of the golden Buddha is awe-inspiring. You can easily reach this temple by a songthaew from Krabi town in THB 50. A tip: wear sturdy shoes and carry a water bottle along with you. The temple opens at 6 a.m. and closes at 4 p.m.
Address: 35, Krabi Noi, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand
Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai
Wat Rong Khun is one of the most visited temples in Chiang Rai. It is a popular tourist location and is known as the “White Temple”. And as the name suggests, the temple is coloured in a pristine snow white tone. The temple’s unique architecture shows the cycle of birth and death, and the bridge that leads up to the temple is called “Gates of Heaven”. The white temple is located 15 kilometres outside of the main Chiang Rai city. The simplest way to reach the temple is by taking a cab. The price should be around THB 300, and the journey should take approximately 20 minutes. The ticket price for entering the temple is THB 50.
Address: Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai, Thailand
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai
In the mountainous region of Chiang Mai lies the majestic Buddhist temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. It is regarded as the most sacred temple in Chiang Mai. Phra entails an honorific Buddha image, and that means a relic. Combining the two tells us that there is a relic of Buddha’s in the sanctity of the Wat, and it is believed that it’s half of Buddha’s shoulder bone. To reach the temple, you can take any of the songthaews near Huay Kaew Road, and it will take you approx. THB 50/-. The serene beauty of the temple and the surrounding area make the trip to the temple worthwhile.
Places to visit in Thailand for Shopping
Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok
The biggest street market in Thailand, Chatuchak Market, is a must-visit place for every shopper coming to Bangkok. The market boasts around 15,000 stalls and is divided into 27 sections. It is believed that the market receives a footfall of 2 lakh visitors every weekend. You can buy numerous items from this market, including plants, food and beverages, consumer electronics, cosmetics, ceramics, clothes, furniture, home accessories, books, pets, and more! Always carry extra cash with you because not every vendor may accept digital payments. Wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle. Plus, it’s a crowded market, so beware of the pickpockets. The market opens every Friday from 6 p.m. until midnight and on Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm.
Address: 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok
Indira Square, Bangkok
Indra Square is an indoor wholesale market perfect to visit on a scorching day in Bangkok. You can buy souvenirs, handbags, decor items, clothes, and accessories at cheap prices. The market is visited by many Indian and Chinese tourists. The best time to visit this market is during the morning and midday because in the evening it gets crowded. The top level of markets is where you’ll find the food court. It is an ideal place to relax, shop, and eat. All the vendors in the market can communicate in English and Thai. Every day, the market is open from 10am to 9pm.
Address: 120/126 Indra Square, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, Thailand
Pattaya Floating Market
Located in the heart of Pattaya city, Pattay floating market offers a unique perspective on Thai self-sufficient living. In this market, you can experience foods and other items from all the regions of Thailand: the North, the Central, the North East, and the South. Here at Pattaya Floating Market, both Thai and foreign tourists can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the place by taking a sightseeing boat to see Thai people’s way of life at two riverfronts. You can also witness cultural performances at the activity zone. There are a total of 114 vendors selling different items. You can select any boat, such as a rowing boat, a long-tail boat, or an amphibious boat, and pay accordingly. The Pattaya floating market opens from 9 AM and closes at 7 PM.
Address: 451 304 12 Sukhumvit Road, Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
ICONSiam, Bangkok
ICONSiam is an ultramodern, luxurious mall located near the Chao Phraya River. It is one of the largest malls in Thailand and houses over seven thousand shops, restaurants, and an indoor floating market. Iconsiam is a perfect destination if you’re looking to splurge and get the best brands and quality. This mall gives much-needed relief from the chaos and heat of Bangkok and is one of the best places to visit in Thailand for shopping. The mall opens from 10am and closes at 10pm.
Address: 299 Charoen Nakhon 5 Alley, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok
Chiang Mai Weekend Market
The epicentre of shopping in Chiang Mai, the Night Bazaar runs every evening from 5 p.m. and covers a whole neighbourhood. The market offers pretty much everything any other Thai night market has, just more of it. This means football shirts, carved elephants, artwork, handicrafts, sunglasses, shoes, luggage, furniture, and homeware. After your retail fix, head to one of the dozens of nearby bars or restaurants to wind down. The market is located at the intersection of Chang Khlan Road and Loi Kroh Road in Chiang Mai.
Open: Daily from 5 p.m. to midnight
Places to visit in Thailand for Adventure and Amusement
Hanuman World Phuket
Hanuman World is the biggest zipline park in Thailand, located amidst dense rainforests. The zipline and skywalking activities operate daily at 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m., and they are suitable for any person aged 4 to 70 years old. The maximum weight limit for each person is 120 kg. All in the Park offers ziplining, sky bridges, abseiling, skywalks, and roller ziplines. They also provide you with a free locker to keep your belongings safe. The park also provides a buffet lunch for 350 baht per person and a GoPro camera rental for 800 baht per camera. It is advisable to wear leggings or shorts, avoid skirts, and wear sports shoes instead of flip-flops or heels. You may additionally keep an extra T-shirt and mosquito repellent spray. The price of the zipline starts at 2,900 Baht per person.
Address: 105 Moo 4, Chaofa Road, T. Wichit, Muang, Phuket, Thailand, 83000
Kitesurfing in Phuket
Even though there are locations in Thailand for kitesurfing, one of the best and most conducive ones is in Phuket. Rawai Beach is the best beach for kitesurfing in Phuket. The beach offers a massive area of powdery, soft shores with crystal-clear and tranquil waters. This makes it ideal to try their hand for the first time for an easy kite surfing experience. The progressive increase in the depth allows the riders to easily practise their kite surfing skills. The best time for kitesurfing in Phuket is from November to March.
Pattaya Skydiving Centre
The skydiving centre in Pattaya is one of the best in Thailand. All tourists above 18 years of age and less than 95 kg can go skydiving in Pattaya. The diving takes place between 7:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.; you can choose what time you’re comfortable with. The diving only takes place in the first half of the day and also depends on weather conditions, so make sure to book your dive in advance. The price of a tandem jump is THB 8,000 per person.
Address: Nong Kho Reservoir, Nong Kham, Sriracha, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
Scuba diving in Similan Island
The Similan Islands rank among the top 10 diving destinations in the world. There are about 20 dive sites in the Similan Islands with unparalleled coral reefs, colourful fish, and kaleidoscopic marine flora. The water is crystal clear, providing remarkable visibility, which makes the diving fairly relaxed with moderate sea currents. The best time to visit Similan Island for scuba diving is from November to early April.
Elephant Trekking in Krabi
Located approximately 7 km away from the Ao Nang beach, you will find the elephant trekking camps. You can choose whichever camp to go elephant trekking. The trained staff will guide you on how to navigate your way with elephants. You can witness the lush surroundings while sitting atop the elephant. On average, a typical trek lasts for about 50 minutes. After the trekking session, you can also get a chance to bathe and scrub them. There are morning elephant rides that start at 9 am, 10 a.m., and 11 a.m., and the afternoon ones start at 1.00 p.m., 2.00 p.m., and 3.00 p.m.
Adult tickets are approximately THB 800, and children aged 4–14 are approximately THB 400.
This brings us to the end of the best tourist spots to visit in Thailand. Being a wonderful tropical island, Thailand caters to every kind of budget and offers something to everyone. Whether you want to visit Thailand with family and kids, a couple going on honeymoon, a group of friends who want to soak up the Thai vibe, or you want to explore Thailand solo, you will surely be captivated by its beauty. If you are interested in going on a Thailand trip, book a Thailand tour package with us today!
Frequently Asked Questions about the best tourist places to visit in Thailand
Q1. Where is the nicest place in Thailand?
The ‘nicest’ place in Thailand depends on the type of experience you are looking for. However, the best tourist attractions in Thailand are:
- Bangkok
- Phuket
- Pattaya
- Koh Samui
- Krabi
- Chiang Mai
Q2. Which part of Thailand is most visited?
Phuket is the most visited part of Thailand due to its ethereal beauty, beach resorts, nightlife and water sports. Phuket is also a popular honeymoon destination in Thailand.
Q3. Is seven days enough in Thailand?
On a 7-day vacation in Thailand, you can cover the major tourist spots and immerse yourself in Thai culture. The time of the year you choose for your Thai vacation is also necessary to determine how many activities you can cover in Thailand in seven days.
Q4. What month is best for Thailand?
Any month of the high season (November to April) is the best month to visit Thailand.
Q5. What are the top five destinations in Thailand?
The top five destinations in Thailand are Phuket, Bangkok, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui and Pattaya.
Q6. What’s better, Phuket or Koh Samui?
Koh Samui is the right choice if you want a laid-back tropical vacation. And if you are looking for enthusiastic beach parties with an eclectic mix of scenic natural beauty, Phuket is a better choice.
Q7. Do Indians need a visa for Thailand?
Yes, Indian passport holders need a visa to visit Thailand. The Kingdom of Thailand provides Visa On Arrival (VoA) to Indian citizens. For more information, you can read:
Thailand visa guide for Indians.
Q8. What is the cheapest month to fly to Thailand?
The cheapest month to fly to Thailand is from mid to late April.
Q9. How expensive is Thailand for Indians?
Thailand is a highly budget-friendly destination for Indians. You can plan a Thailand trip with satisfactory accommodation, sightseeing and dining experience for anywhere between INR 50,000 to 70,000/-
Q10. Is INR 1 lakh enough for a Thailand trip?
With careful budget planning and keeping track of your expenses, you can plan a Thailand trip for INR 1 lakh.
Q11. What are the best places to visit in Thailand for first-timers?
The best places to visit in Thailand for first-timers are:
- Bangkok
- Ayutthaya
- Pattaya
- Phuket
- Krabi
Q12. How much does a Thailand trip cost from India?
A Thailand trip cost from India depends on the travel time and the number of days and places covered in that trip. However, to give you a rough estimate, a one-week Thai trip can cost anywhere from INR 65 thousand to INR 75 thousand.
