Choose from 178 Fun Things to Do in Thailand
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 178 listings.
Flow House Bangkok
The Flow House urban beach club concept involves packaging a slice of California surfer culture and serving it up to travelers as a one-stop destination for dining, shopping and, of course, surfing. Flow House opened its Bangkok location in 2012, with a FlowRider at its heart. The FlowRider projects a thin sheet of water over a hill-shaped surface to mimic the shape of a perfect ocean wave, allowing surfers to practice without having to rely on Mother Nature.
At Flow House Bangkok, Flowboarding is the sport of choice — an amalgamation of skateboarding, surfing, bodyboarding and snowboarding. Experienced boarders can practice new maneuvers while kids and newbies can learn a new skill. No matter your level, Flow House staff are always on standby to help out. Travelers can participate through session riding, lessons, competitions and special events, even the cautious traveler can enjoy the action while eating, drinking and hanging out.
Besides the FlowRider, Flow House Bangkok facilities include a kid’s pool, viewing deck, sun loungers, surf shop and Flow Bar, where you can purchase snacks, beers, cocktails and sodas.
Practical Info
Flow House Bangkok is located in A-Square near the intersection of Sukhumvhit and Rama 4.
Address: 120/1 Sukhumvit 26, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Open Mon - Fri: 10 am to midnight, Sat - Sun: 8 am to midnight
Admission: 750 baht per hour
From $ 19
Dream World
There’s a reason Bangkok’s Dream World is known by locals as “the world of happiness.” Travelers will find a variety of entertaining live performances, traditional cuisine and dozens of thrill-seeking amusement park rides just beyond the amusement park’s gates.
Nowhere else can visitors to Thailand slide down frozen hillsides aboard speeding sleds, raft across the Grand Canyon or fly 20 meters into the air on the thundering waves of a Hurricane. And these adrenaline pumping attractions are just part of what makes Dream World worth the visit. Families can wander through the chilly streets of the enchanting Snow Town or splash around in the little kids Water Fun area. Whether it’s an adventurous afternoon or an all-day family affair Dream World has travelers covered.
Practical Info
Dream World is accessible via the Rangsit highway and Changwattana Expressway. Travelers can also catch public bus number 538 to Dream World from Victory Monument.
Address: 62 Moo1, Rangsit-Ongkarak road, Pathumthani, Thailand
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Golden Mount (Wat Saket)
The Golden Mount - or Wat Saket - was constructed by King Rama I shortly after the founding of Bangkok. Built just outside the original city walls and intended as a burial site, the mount has many thousands of bodies interned here - most of them dating from Rama II's rule when plague swept through the city.
Built on swampy ground, the hill was rebuilt by Rama III who added a chedi (stupa) which promptly collapsed due to the shifting foundations. Rama V built the golden chedi we see today on the rubble of the previous chedi. The golden chedi is rumored to contain some of Buddha's remains – including his teeth. Concrete walls were constructed during World War II to ensure the structure remains stable.
Built on swampy ground, the hill was rebuilt by Rama III who added a chedi (stupa) which promptly collapsed due to the shifting foundations. Rama V built the golden chedi we see today on the rubble of the previous chedi. The golden chedi is rumored to contain some of Buddha's remains – including his teeth. Concrete walls were constructed during World War II to ensure the structure remains stable.
The Golden Mount looks its best at night when it glows gold against the dark sky. It is worth visiting in the daytime too for fantastic views across the city.
Practical Info
If you are visiting Bangkok in the first week of November, you should visit the annual fair at the Golden Mount, which is lit with colored lanterns and wrapped in cloth. At this time, the entire compound turns into a giant fun fair .The Golden Mount is several blocks east of the Grand Palace in the Old City (Rattanakosin district). There is no straightforward public transport here and it is best to catch a taxi or tuk-tuk.
Address: Ratchadamnoen Klang and Boripihat Roads, Old City, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Open daily 8am - 9pm
Admission: ฿10 donation expected
From $ 23
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery
Sold around the globe, Chalong Bay Rum is Thailand’s best-known rum brand. At the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery in Phuket, travelers can go behind-the-scenes to discover how the facility uses centuries-old French distillation techniques to transform freshly pressed sugarcane into smooth white rum.
The Basics
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is the perfect destination for a laid-back morning or afternoon of rum sampling. Opt for a guided tour to learn about the rum-making process, sample rum cocktails at the distillery bar, or take part in a masterclass or cocktail workshop to learn the secrets of cocktail making and whip up favorites including Chalong Bay mojitos, Spicyrinhas, and Piña Coladas. You can also combine a rum-tasting session at Chalong Bay Distillery with a private tour of Phuket Town to see city highlights such as a local cashew factory and scenic viewpoints overlooking the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is a must-see for rum and cocktail aficionados.
- The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20 years old.
- The distillery is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is located on Soi Palai in Chalong Bay, roughly five miles (eight kilometers) southwest of Phuket Town. There are no public transportation options, so it’s best to arrive by private vehicle, taxi, or as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The distillery is open year-round but can get busy during the dry season (November through February), so opt for an early morning visit to avoid the crowds.
The Natural Rum of Chalong Bay
Chalong Bay is renowned for its natural rum production—inspired by traditional French-Caribbean methods—and uses pure sugarcane juice instead of the molasses typically used in industrial rum. The distillery is proud of its eco credentials and uses only the finest Thai sugarcane sourced from local farmers, grown without chemical fertilizers, and harvested by hand.
Address: 14/2 Moo 2 Soi Palai 2 Tambon Chalong Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130, Thailand
Hours: Daily, 11am - 10pm. Distillery tours start every hour from 2pm - 6pm.
From $ 125
Dusit Palace
Visiting Dusit Palace (Phra Ratcha Wang Dusit) is a very different experience from visiting the nearby Grand Palace. Built by King Rama V in 1903, it was meant to be a direct contrast to the traditional yet cramped Grand Palace. As the first Thai king to visit Europe, Rama modeled his palace after the spacious leafy royal residences he observed there, which comes through in the western architecture and layout.
Over 100 years later the complex is still the seat of power today, and there are many residences, organizations and political buildings spread around the grounds. The main highlight for visitors is the Vimanmek Mansion: King Rama V's former home and the largest teakwood residence in the world. There are also over a dozen museums on the grounds including several photography museums, a pottery-salvaged-from-shipwrecks museum and an ancient clock museum.
Over 100 years later the complex is still the seat of power today, and there are many residences, organizations and political buildings spread around the grounds. The main highlight for visitors is the Vimanmek Mansion: King Rama V's former home and the largest teakwood residence in the world. There are also over a dozen museums on the grounds including several photography museums, a pottery-salvaged-from-shipwrecks museum and an ancient clock museum.
Address: Vajira Hospital 295 Ratchasima Rd, Dusit, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
Admission: About 100 THB
From $ 69
Bangrak
Hugging the Chao Phraya River and home to some of the city’s best hotels, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, Bangkok’s Bangrak is a blend of international and local culture. Particularly famous for the commercial shopping district around Silom Road, Bangrak covers a huge area, although most locals usually consider it to be the area surrounding the river.
Aside from its shopping centers and high-rise hotels, Bangrak is home to a number of attractions, including the Bangkok Folk Museum, plus the religious sites of Wat Hua Lamphong and the famous Hindu temple, Sri Mahamariamman.
The area between the Saphan Taksin Skytrain station and the junction of Charoen Krung and Silom Road is well worth a stroll along. It’s a teeming melting pot of local life and home to a number of hawker food stalls serving delicious and traditional local cuisine.
Practical Info
Bangrak is served well by both Bangkok’s Skytrain and Metro lines. Skytrain stations include Sala Daeng, Chong Nonsi, Surasak, and Saphan Taksin. Metro stations include Lumphini, Silom, and Sam Yan. Bangrak can also be reached by river via the Chao Phraya Express Boat.
Address: Bang Rak, Bangkok, Thailand
From $ 50
Bangkok National Museum
The main branch of the National Museums in Thailand, Bangkok's main public museum is also the largest museum in all of South East Asia. Spread out over acres of green grounds and multiple buildings, the museum is a showcase for Thai art and history. Although it used to be considered unorganized, dusty and forgotten, it's recently been renovated and updated and now features a vibrant collection of artifacts with clear English-language descriptions.
Inside you will find a truly enormous collection of treasures including paintings, sculptures, bronzes and prehistoric art from Thailand and other Asian countries. You will want to give yourself plenty of time to thoroughly cover the exhibits and may want to consider hiring a guide for a more targeted tour. Highlights include a replica funeral chariot hall, the Buddhaisawan chapel and the weapon galleries.
Inside you will find a truly enormous collection of treasures including paintings, sculptures, bronzes and prehistoric art from Thailand and other Asian countries. You will want to give yourself plenty of time to thoroughly cover the exhibits and may want to consider hiring a guide for a more targeted tour. Highlights include a replica funeral chariot hall, the Buddhaisawan chapel and the weapon galleries.
Address: 4 Thanon Na Phra That, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Hours: Open 9am - 4pm Wed-Sun, closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and national holidays.
From $ 10
Bangkok Chinatown (Yaowarat)
With its heady smorgasbord of street food, gold merchants, wooden shophouses, and ancient Chinese temples, there’s never a dull moment in Bangkok’s Chinatown, also known as Yaowarat. Exploring the bustling sois (side streets) of the city’s oldest district is a must on any trip to the Thai capital.
The Basics
Bangkok Chinatown envelops the streets and alleys branching off Yaowarat Road, its main thoroughfare. Since the area transforms into a food street after dark, many visitors choose to explore it on a walking food tour. Those more interested in the history and heritage of Bangkok’s Chinese immigrants can opt for a daytime biking tour or walking tour to visit the area’s Buddhist temples and neighborhood markets.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bangkok Chinatown is a must-see for foodies and first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes and prepare to walk; there’s a lot to see in this busy neighborhood.
- Most Chinatown tours include a bit of shopping, eating, and temple visits.
- Walking and biking tours that include Chinatown typically last three to five hours.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Chinatown is by boat; alight at Ratchawong Pier and walk up Ratchawong Road until you get to Sampeng Lane or Yaowarat Road. You can also disembark at Harbor Department Pier or Memorial Bridge Pier. Alternatively, take the subway to Hua Lamphong Station on the eastern bank of the Phadung Krung Kasem Canal.
When to Get There
To get the most comprehensive Chinatown experience, plan to visit by day and after dark. Plan to arrive hungry at night, when the street-food stalls are in full swing. The neighborhood is at its most vibrant during major Chinese festivals, especially Chinese New Year (January or February).
Must-Try Foods in Chinatown
Food is one of the major reasons for a visit to Chinatown. Seafood restaurants here serve some of the freshest crabs and prawns in the city, while street-food vendors cook up grilled squid, Thai toast, kway chap (a peppery noodle soup), pad thai, and bird’s nest soup.
Address: Thanon Yaowarat, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 11
Central World Plaza
Central World Plaza, Bangkok’s largest shopping complex, comprises 5,920,000 square feet (550,000 square meters) of space with 500 shops, 50 restaurants and 21 movie theaters. The retail offerings include a mix of international and local designers and flagship specialty stores, all spread across eight floors. Popular tenants include H&M, Uniqlo, Toys R Us, Zara and Forever 21.
While most certainly a shopper’s paradise, Central World Plaza has plenty of non-retail attractions to boot. Visitors will find indoor and outdoor Activities Zones, an education center for kids, a food court and an ice skating rink.
Practical Info
To reach Central World Plaza, take the subway to Chit Lom Station or Siam Station and exit toward Sky Walk.
Address: 999/9 Ratchadamri Rd, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Open Mon- Sun 10 am-10 pm
From $ 33
Bangla Road
This eclectic strip of bars, discos, shops and attractions is the epicenter of entertainment in Patong. It offers a taste of some local traditions, as well as near unlimited access to plenty of western amenities. Travelers can shop for high-end fashions, flashy new swimsuits or local souvenirs at the massive Bangla Mall.
Bangla Road is also a popular drinking destination. Beer bars serving ice-cold Thai brews ice cold entice passersby with aircon and open tables filled with favorite board games. But perhaps Bangla Road is best known for its evening entertainment. Stop by Rock Hard—one of the street’s oldest institutions—for live go-go dancers, center-stage pole dancing and strong drinks, or grab a ticket to the popular Simon Cabaret in Patong’s Paradise Complex. The famous ladyboys put on one of the largest transvestite shows in all of Asia.
Bangla Road is also a popular drinking destination. Beer bars serving ice-cold Thai brews ice cold entice passersby with aircon and open tables filled with favorite board games. But perhaps Bangla Road is best known for its evening entertainment. Stop by Rock Hard—one of the street’s oldest institutions—for live go-go dancers, center-stage pole dancing and strong drinks, or grab a ticket to the popular Simon Cabaret in Patong’s Paradise Complex. The famous ladyboys put on one of the largest transvestite shows in all of Asia.
Practical Info
Bangala Road is the liveliest stretch of nightlife in Patong, but the 10 or so side streets between Beach Road and Rat U Thit Road offer even more options for dance, music, drinks and ladies.
Address: Patong, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 6
Grand Palace
Bangkok’s glittering Grand Palace is one of the most popular attractions in the Thai capital. Built in 1782, this sprawling 54-acre (21.8-hectare) complex served as the royal court and administrative seat of Thailand for 150 years. Today, while it continues to host royal Thai functions, the palace also impresses swathes of visitors with its intricate golden-spired architecture and cultural history.
The Basics
The complex grounds, right off the Chao Phraya River, feature several visitable buildings and courtyards. Popular sites within the palace walls are the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew); Phra Maha Monthian, where ceremonies of the court still take place; the throne room in Dusit Hall (only two of three throne halls are open to the public); a museum covering the palace’s history; and the buildings of the former royal residences. Though the palace is no longer used as a royal residence, the inner court remains closed to the public. In-depth day tours with private guides explain the art, traditions, and architecture of the Grand Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A strict dress code applies for entry: long pants or skirts, shirts with sleeves (no bare shoulders), and socks—even with sandals. If you come unprepared, a booth near the entrance may offer extra cover-ups with a deposit.
- Most half-day Bangkok tours couple a visit to the Grand Palace with other top activities like canal cruises or stops at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), or Wat Arun.
- The grounds feature a cafe and three restrooms.
When to Get There
The Grand Palace is open daily from 8:30am to 3:30pm. The temples can get crowded and, with the requisite dress code, can also get quite hot. To beat the heat and the crowds, visit in the early morning on weekdays during the peak tourist (but cooler, drier) months of November to February, or in the rainy season (July through October).
How to Get There
The Grand Palace is sandwiched between the Chao Phraya River, Sanam Luang Park, and Wat Pho in the government district of downtown Bangkok. To get there, take the Chao Phraya Express to the Tha Chang Pier. Alternatively, take a taxi or tuk tuk from the city center—although Bangkok’s notoriously heavy traffic is very likely to slow you down.
Making the Most of Your Grand Palace Visit
There are many sites to see within the Grand Palace. If you arrive early, head straight to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, to the left of the entrance, before crowds form. If you visit later in the day, head to the right past the ticket booth to see the palace and formal halls before circling back around by Buddha Ratana Starn Hall and Sidhala Phirom Hall, behind the Emerald Buddha complex. Take your time exploring the chedi (Thai Buddhist stupa-like monument) and naga (multiheaded snakes) along the temple’s exterior.
Address: Na Phra Lan Road, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Daily 8:30am–3:30pm
Admission: 500 THB
From $ 8
Bang Saen Aquarium (Institute of Marine Science)
The Bang Saen Aquarium / Institute of Marine Science is housed within Burapha University at Bang Saen Beach in Chonburi. The institute is divided into three sections; the marine science museum, the aquarium, and a research laboratory. The center exists both for research purposes and as a place for students and visitors to learn about marine science.
The museum is creatively arranged, featuring exhibitions on marine preservation and restoration, with information on ecology and examples of stuffed sea animals. As you might expect, the aquarium is the main place to view various live fish, with a tunnel revealing the big fish and a high tank showcasing swarms of smaller fish. It’s a modern aquarium with a real underwater environment divided into different ocean zones. Elsewhere, the laboratory is the main research center that allows the institute to make new discoveries about marine life.
A trip to the Bang Saen Aquarium can be combined with visiting other sights and attractions in the area on a half-day Pattaya discovery tour, including ‘Monkey Cliff’ plus Ang Sila, a small fishing community famous for its oyster farms and stonemason villages.
Insider’s Tip: Divers feed the giant groupers in the aquarium every day at 2:30pm, with an additional feeding time of 10:30am on weekends and public holidays.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour, you can reach Bang Saen Aquarium by hiring a motorbike or taxi and heading along Highway No.3 until you reach Bang Saen. The institute is within the Burapha University compound on Long Had Bang Sean Road.
Address: Long Had Bang Sean Road, Chonburi, Thailand
Hours: 8:30am-5pm, Tuesday to Sunday
Admission: Adult: 220 THB / Child: 120 THB
From $ 54
Bangkok Cruise Port
Bangkok is one of Asia’s most exciting capital cities, and there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained while in port. Bangkok cruise port is a popular start or end destination for cruises to China, Singapore, and Southeast Asia, welcoming cruise liners from Viking, Windstar, and Silversea, among others.
The Basics
With so much to see and do in Bangkok, most cruise visitors opt for a shore excursion to make the most of their time. Tours typically focus on the highlights, including the Grand Palace, home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha; temples, such as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and the Temple of the Golden Buddha; or the gigantic Chatuchak Market, a great place to purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes, and street food. Some tours also include lunch at a local restaurant or a scenic cruise around Bangkok’s canals.
Another popular choice for a shore excursion is a visit to the coastal town of Pattaya. The beach resort is just a 30-minute drive from Laem Chabang port.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
- Laem Chabang port has food kiosks, gift shops, a massage spa, and a visitor information center.
- With transfer times taking around two hours, full-day shore excursions can last up to 12 hours.
How to Get to Bangkok from the Port of Laem Chabang and Klong Toey
Most cruise ships dock at Laem Chabang, about two hours south of Bangkok. Public transport options from Laem Chabang are limited, so it’s best to prearrange a private transfer or take a taxi. Smaller ships may dock at Klong Toey, located on the Chao Phraya River on the outskirts of the city. For ships docking at Klong Toey, free shuttles often bring passengers into Bangkok—an around 45-minute journey.
Port Information
The official language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The local currency is the baht. Some shops may accept euros and US dollars, but be sure to check the exchange rate before agreeing on a price. ATMs are widely available and credit cards are generally accepted, although it’s best to carry some cash in smaller denominations, especially for taxis, tuk-tuks, and markets.
Address: Thailand
From $ 121
Art in Paradise
Art in Paradise is an interactive 3D art gallery in Chiang Mai. Visitors get to become a part of the art, interacting with paintings and installations to create various illusions and gain some unique photos opportunities in a family friendly environment.
From a ride on Aladdin's flying carpet to an exploration expedition of the deep blue sea, Art in Paradise encourages travelers to use their imaginations and tap into their inner child in order to create and complete the artworks on display. This three-story gallery has various zones to explore with different themes, including an ocean area, a zoo site, a classic art theme and Thai and Egyptian areas. There's also a small cafe and restaurant on the ground floor of the gallery.
Practical Info
Art in Paradise is located on Changklan Road in the south of Chiang Mai, next to the Shangri La Hotel and just a few kilometers east of the Ping River.
Address: 199/9 Changklan Road, Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand 50200, Thailand
Hours: 9am-9pm
Admission: Adult: 300 baht / Child: 200 baht
From $ 16
Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha)
Arching in front of the sacred Wat Suthat in Bangkok, what is left of the Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha) is a tall teak structure that once supported a giant seat used during Brahman festivals to honor the god Shiva. The landmark is often spotted on walking and biking tours through Bangkok.
During the festivities, participants would swing in arcs in an effort to reach a bag of gold suspended from a bamboo pole, an act that was believed to encourage a good harvest. A black-and-white photograph illustrating the ceremony can be found at Wat Suthat's ticket counter nearby.
Constructed toward the end of the 18th century by King Rama I, the swing was later damaged by lightning during the reign of Rama II. In 1920, it was renovated and moved to its current location in front of Wat Suthat. However, there were so many injuries and even accidental deaths that the ceremonies were discontinued for good by the end of the 1930s. In 2007, the Giant Swing was replaced with the current model, while the previous version was moved to the National Museum.
Practical Info
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing are located to the east of the Grand Palace on the route that leads to the Golden Mount (Wat Saket).
Address: Thanon Bamrung Muang, Bangkok, Thailand
From $ 23
Bangkok NANTA Theatre
The Bangkok NANTA Theatre stages unique NANTA shows, a non-verbal comedy musical that originated in Korea. Nanta literally means 'to strike relentlessly' in Korean, and this instrumental performance, with a kitchen as its backdrop, uses everything from knives and other utensils to traditional water drums to create a show like no other.
Audiences are taken on an action-packed adventure where performing chefs dazzle and impress, using nonstop percussion, acrobatic cooking styles, and hilarious facial expressions to convey their story.
NANTA made its international debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 1999, where it received the best performance award. Since then, the show has been entertaining audiences worldwide, from cities in Europe to those across Asia, and beyond. The show also made history when it became the first Asian production to open its very own large-scale theater in New York.
Practical Info
The Bangkok NANTA Theatre is located in the RCA Plaza, close to the Petchaburi Road. Nightly performances start at 8pm, with a running time of 90 minutes. Round-trip hotel transport is often included in tours. Alternatively, the venue can be reached by taxi, although be sure to leave enough time as traffic in Bangkok can be exceptionally busy.
Address: 31/6 RCA Plaza Building, Floor 1, Soi Soonwijai, Pharam 9 Road, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Shows at 8pm daily (closed every first of the month)
Admission: Royal seat: THB 1300; Standard seat: THB 1100
From $ 14
Golden Triangle
The mountainous border regions of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand come together in the exotically named Golden Triangle—a haven of Buddhist architecture, lush forest, and colorful riverfront villages. Located in the Chiang Rai province at Thailand’s northernmost tip, the Golden Triangle is thick with wonders, both natural and man-made.
The Basics
Originally launched into notoriety by the opium trade, this sleepy part of Southeast Asia is now a popular jungle escape and jumping-off point for visits to hill tribe villages populated by the White Hmong, Akha, Karen, and Lahu people. Most regional tours start in Chiang Rai, although some also make the trip from Chiang Mai. On a full-day tour, discover cultural delights of Northern Thailand such as the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the impressive Hall of Opium museum, and Chiang Saen’s ancient Buddhist ruins. You can also visit farther-flung rural villages, ride in a tuk-tuk, peruse local markets, and cruise the Ruak and Mekong rivers. Some longer tour options cross into Myanmar at the border town of Mae Sai, while other excursions venture into Laos via the Fourth Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- On tours that cross into Laos or Myanmar, it’s helpful to carry a small amount of US currency in addition to Thai baht.
- A valid passport is required for border crossings into Laos and Myanmar.
- Thailand’s northern region is more conservative than Bangkok, the islands, and the beaches down south. Cover your shoulders and avoid wearing swimming attire at religious sites.
How to Get There
The Golden Triangle’s official center is the town of Sop Ruak, located at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong rivers. The capital city of Chiang Rai (the departure point of most Golden Triangle tours) lies roughly 113 miles (182 kilometers) north of Chiang Mai, a 3-hour journey by road. Multiple buses travel between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai daily, though most visitors travel by car or guided tour.
When to Get There
Winter is the most popular time to visit, when the days are usually dry and warm. Monsoon season lasts from late April through October, bringing rain and humid weather.
Things to Know When Visiting Hill Tribe Villages
Each traditional hill tribe community has its own style of dress, language, and cultural customs. Many villages retain their roots but also open up their way of life to curious visitors. Visitors should be respectful, always ask before taking photographs, and consider purchasing locally made handicrafts that support the village communities.
Address: Highway 1290, Sop Ruak 57000, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 39
Elephant Nature Park
A sanctuary for former ill-treated Asian elephants, the Elephant Nature Park encourages visitors to learn about the plight of these mammals and their habitat through activities, such as feeding and helping to care for the resident herd. Elephant rides are not offered at the park, a policy the park encourages in other elephant camps.
The Basics
Most travelers visit the elephant sanctuary on a day trip from Chiang Mai. A daylong elephant experience includes the chance to observe the animals in the forest, feed them fruit from a viewing platform under staff supervision, and assist with bathing elephants in a nearby river.
Funds raised here support efforts to reforest habitats for wild elephants, and the park also houses a menagerie of other rescued animals from Northern Thailand, including dogs, cats, and birds. Food for the elephants is purchased locally to support area farmers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This elephant rescue center is a must-see for animal lovers and families.
- Common areas of the elephant park offer free Wi-Fi access.
- A full-day park visit includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Chiang Mai city and lunch.
- All experiences at the elephant park are suitable for all fitness levels.
- The park has a restaurant serving both Thai and Western vegetarian dishes, buffet style.
- Be sure to book your experience in advance as they tend to sell out.
How to Get There
The Elephant Nature Park is located just under 40 miles (64 kilometers) north of Chiang Mai at 1 Ratmakka Road, Phra Sing. The journey takes about 90 minutes.
When to Get There
Full-day experiences at the park take place daily throughout the year, with hotel pickup early in the morning and drop-off during late afternoon. The best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is cool and relatively dry.
Longer Stays at the Park
While the single-day visit is the most popular option at the Elephant Nature Park, visitors can opt for longer stays as well, ranging from a short overnight visit to a full week of volunteering.
Address: 1 Ratmakka Road, Phra Sing, Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand 50200, Thailand
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Few markets couple ephemeral wares—fresh fruits, fish, foods, and colorful flower bouquets—with culture, chaos, and tradition like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. One of the largest and last remaining floating markets in Thailand, this authentic market has entranced travelers and photographers the world over with its vividly colorful scenes of vendors offering goods from long-tailed boats on the sleepy green Damnoen Saduak canal, built by King Rama IV in the 19th century.
The Basics
The famous floating market is commonly visited on half- and full-day tours from Bangkok. Popular options include a guided boat ride along the canal in a long-tailed speedboat or umbrella-shaded paddle boat and a riverside group bike excursion that explores the countryside and nearby canals (klongs) for a better appreciation of local life. Both group and private tours are available, and round-trip transportation from Bangkok is typically included. Because the market wraps up around midday, the experience is often coupled with a visit to the Sampran riverside Thai village or the stupa at Phra Pathom Chedi (Phra Pathommachedi) in Nakhon Pathom, the tallest stupa in Thailand.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is no admission fee for the market.
- Remember to wear a hat and sunblock—much of the market is shadeless.
- Some of the vendor offerings are geared toward locals, while others typically sell souvenirs to travelers.
- Pay attention to your valuables and be courteous when taking photos of vendors or their goods.
- Vendors generally accept only Thai baht as payment.
How to Get There
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located some 62 miles (100 kilometers) southwest of downtown Bangkok city in the southern part of the Ratchaburi province, a journey of about 90 minute by road. Most visitors arrive by organized tour from Bangkok, though it is possible to take a taxi or public bus.
When to Get There
The market runs every morning from 7am to 11am. Arrive early for the best pick of the produce, to spend the most time wandering amid the vendors before boat traffic picks up around 9am, and to beat the heat, especially during the sweltering summer months of March, April, and May. Toward midday, when vendors pack up, it may be possible to negotiate for better deals.
What to Buy at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
To make the most of your market tour, you may want to interact with vendors and purchase some of their unusual, delicious, and practical goods. Taste smelly durian, order fried bananas served via fishing pole, or select a straw hat from a canalside stall. Whatever you choose, you’ll need to bring Thai baht in small bills and bartering skills. Bartering is part of the local culture and will help to get you the best price.
Address: Ratchaburi, Thailand
Hours: Daily 9am - 2pm
Admission: Free
From $ 20
Chalong Big Buddha
The Chalong Big Buddha is hard to miss. Built on a patch of virgin rain forest on Khao Nakkerd Hill high above Phuket, this gigantic 148-foot (45-meter) statue is one of the island's most prominent landmarks, easily seen from most places in the south. From the statue’s base, visitors enjoy panoramic views of Chalong Bay and Phuket town.
The Basics
As one of Phuket’s most recognizable attractions, the Chalong Big Buddha features on most sightseeing tours of the island, along with beaches and other notable religious sites. Those who enjoy hiking can book a tour that includes a trek through lush jungle before a visit to the Big Buddha, as well as a trip to Wat Chalong, the largest Buddhist temple in Phuket. A small museum at the base of the statue chronicles the history of the project. Private tours often visit this site.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chalong Big Buddha is a must-see for photographers and first-time visitors.
- Entry to the Big Buddha is free, but donations are accepted.
- Make sure your knees and shoulders are covered during your visit; avoid beachwear.
- Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering the temple at the Big Buddha.
- There’s a public restroom at the statue about halfway down the stairs.
How to Get There
The Big Buddha is located along a 4-mile (6-kilometer) road just off the main route from Phuket to Chalong. Turn down Soi Yot Sane and follow the signs up the hill. Public transportation to the statue is scarce, so it’s a good idea to hire a taxi or visit as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The statue is at its busiest around sunset (a beautiful time to visit to be sure), but if you want to enjoy the sight when it’s a little less crowded, plan to visit at sunrise when the eastern-facing statue is illuminated by the rising sun.
Messages of Faith
Look closely at the Big Buddha statue, and you’ll see thousands of white-marble slabs engraved with messages from those who donated toward the construction of the statue. Some are words of good luck, while others are in memory of loved ones who’ve died.
Address: Soi Yot Sane 1, Phuket, Southern Thailand and Andaman Coast, Thailand
Admission: Donations accepted
From $ 11