Thailand is a country that dazzles visitors with its azure beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. But beyond the well-trodden paths of Phuket and Bangkok lie secret destinations that will make your time in the country truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or planning your first trip to the “Land of Smiles,” exploring places off the beaten path (such as those outlined below) will enhance your Thai adventure! Sprinkle a few of these into your 2025 travel itinerary to fully appreciate the rich diversity of Thai history and culture.
Cultural Hidden Gems
Thailand has a rich, ancient culture that spills into the streets around you. No matter where you go, you’re bound to stumble upon historic sites and natural wonders that have preserved the region’s rich history.
Ban Chiang Archaeological Site
Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its ancient pottery and insights into early human civilization. Located in the Udon Thani, this site offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life in Southeast Asia.
The best time to visit is during the cooler months (November to February). Take time to explore the Ban Chiang National Museum, which houses impressive artifacts and provides an informative overview of the site’s history.
Phu Phra Bat Historical Park
Phu Phra Bat Historical Park is known for its unique rock formations, prehistoric cave paintings, and ancient religious shrines. Nestled in the hills of Udon Thani, this Thai park is full of natural and historical wonders.
Wear comfy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. The best hiking routes are clearly marked, but local guides can enhance your visit with detailed explanations of the site’s significance.
Bo Sang Handicraft Village
Immerse yourself in the artisanal culture of Bo Sang Handicraft Village, famous for its beautiful umbrella-making handiwork. Located just outside Chiang Mai, this village comes alive during the annual Bo Sang Umbrella Festival, where the streets are lined with hand-crafted umbrellas and lively performances.
Plan your visit to align with the festival in January for a truly magical experience. Participate in workshops where you can make your own umbrella and browse local crafts. Much like the rest of the country, the foodie scene is incredible. Take advantage of the local delicacies at the market stalls!
Natural Wonders
Thailand is known for its stunning beaches in the south, but the north, with its rich forests and forest-clad mountains, has its own charm as well. When travelling around Thailand, don’t be afraid to balance both inland and seaside adventures – and to head into nature to experience some of Thailand’s stunning national parks.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak, is a must-visit for nature lovers. The park boasts stunning waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking viewpoints.
The best hiking trails include the Ang Ka Nature Trail and the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail (closed from June to October during the rainy season). Both offer spectacular views. For panoramic vistas, visit the twin pagodas (Phra Maha Dhatu Nabha Metaneedol and Nabhapol Bhumisiri) dedicated to the King and Queen. The park is most beautiful from November to February when the flowers are in bloom, and the weather is cooler.
Koh Lipe’s Secret Beaches
While Koh Lipe is gaining popularity, some secluded beaches still offer tranquillity and maintain their pristine beauty. Sunrise Beach and Sunset Beach are perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the serene surroundings. Reach these hidden spots by renting a kayak or hiring a local boat. Come prepared for snorkelling or diving to explore the vibrant underwater world.
Phu Kradueng National Park
Phu Kradueng National Park is a paradise for hikers and campers. The park is known for its scenic viewpoints, rich biodiversity, and serene camping spots.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from October to May. Start your trek early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Camping is popular here, so feel free to bring a tent and necessary camping gear. For an unforgettable experience, enjoy the sunrise at the Pha Nok Aen viewpoint.
Khao Sok National Park
The natural beauty of Khao Sok National Park, is almost unmatched – and definitely one of Thailand’s most stunning national parks. Known for its dense rainforest, limestone cliffs, and diverse wildlife, Khao Sok offers visitors the opportunity to take guided jungle treks and night safaris. Don’t miss Cheow Larn Lake, famous for its unique, emerald-green waters and romantic floating bungalows.
Unique Experiences
Thailand has a variety of unique experiences that aren’t to be missed. Try seeking out lesser-known temples and towns or get around in more off-beat ways to get closer to an authentic Thai experience.
Chiang Khan Walking Street
Chiang Khan Walking Street offers a charming blend of culture, food, and local markets. This riverside town is perfect for leisurely strolls, with wooden houses lining the streets and the Mekong River flowing quietly in the background.
Visit during the weekend for the bustling night market. Try local street foods like kai krata (Thai-style pan eggs) and homemade ice cream. Stay in a traditional wooden guesthouse for an authentic Thai experience.
Lampang’s Horse-Drawn Carriages
Explore the quaint town of Lampang via traditional horse-drawn carriages. It’s a charming way to see the sights! The town is known for its well-preserved architecture and peaceful ambiance, which makes it fun to explore by carriage.
You can hire your carriage from the main market area. Visit key attractions like the Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang temple. Let your carriage driver/guide set the pace and give you historical context for the carriages and some notable landmarks along the way.
Nan’s Hidden Temples
Nan, a province in Northern Thailand, is home to lesser-known temples with stunning murals and serene atmospheres. Wat Phumin and Wat Phra That Khao Noi are particularly noteworthy.
Observe temple etiquette by dressing modestly and removing your shoes before entering. You can take pictures of the intricate murals with your camera, but be respectful of the sacred spaces. Engage with local monks who can share stories and insights about the murals.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai Night Train
If your travels include both Bangkok and Chiang Mai, skip flying and experience the overnight train between the two cities. Get space in a sleeper car and wake up amongst the green, misty mountains of the North before disembarking. Friends who chose this route decided to stop first in the historic city of Ayutthaya (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), a 1.5-hour train ride from Bangkok, before catching the night train north. At night, enjoy the explosion of colours as your train passes by and momentarily lights up the exterior mosaics of Wats (Buddhist compounds in villages and cities) and drink your coffee or tea in the morning (in the restaurant car) while marvelling at the vast Thai jungles and rugged cliffs as you move closer to your destination.
Jungle Trekking in Northern Thailand
If you’re visiting Chiang Mai, or plan to be in the area, set aside a few days for a trek through the northern jungles. Outside of rainy season, these hikes will take you through rural and remote Thai villages and into the mountains where you’ll be surrounded by the natural wonder of the Northern provinces. I have friends who raved about their experience taking a multi-day trek and swore it was the best part of their trip
For the best jungle trekking experience, hire a trusted local guide or tour company. Opt for a three-day tour if you can to experience a mix of rigorous mountain hiking, bamboo rafting, and elephant rides. My friends took a tour that had them staying in a small riverside village one night and a rustic camping hut the next. Like them, you’ll likely get a chance to learn about northern Thai culture and make friends with fellow travellers around bonfires under star-filled skies. Be open to roughing it a little and get rewarded with the experience of embracing nature while sharing in the unique customs of local communities.
Culinary Delights
Thailand has some truly amazing restaurants! But don’t discount humble markets or smaller restaurants. It’s pretty hard to have a bad meal, no matter where you find yourself in the country.
Local Markets in Nonthaburi
Nonthaburi‘s local markets are a culinary delight, offering unique dishes and fresh produce. Head to Bang Bua Thong Market, a local favourite, thanks to its authentic Thai flavours.
The best time to visit is in the early morning. Snag the freshest produce and best food selection before it gets too busy. Must-try dishes include moo ping (grilled pork skewers) and khao lam (sticky rice in bamboo). The market is also a great place to buy local spices and snacks.
Surat Thani’s Riverside Eateries
Surat Thani is known for its tiny, local riverside eateries, where you can enjoy delicious seafood, authentic Thai cuisine, and scenic views. Head north of Si Surat Bridge and dine during sunset for a laidback Thai experience. Alternatively, head to the Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine and peruse other nearby river restaurant options. Try goong ob woonsen (shrimp with glass noodles) and tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup) that you can share family-style according to local Thai etiquette.
Isan’s Street Food Scene
Isan, in Northeastern Thailand, is famous for its street food, characterized by bold and spicy flavours. Markets in cities like Udon Thani and Khon Kaen offer many mouth-watering options.
Try local specialties like som tam (papaya salad) and larb (spicy minced meat salad). But be prepared for the heat—Isan food is known for its spiciness! Come hungry and explore different stalls to sample a variety of dishes.
Bangkok’s Tuk Tuk Food Tours
No matter your ultimate destination, you’ll likely have to fly into Bangkok to get there, so you might just want to spend a little bit of time hanging out in this massively entertaining city. One of the best things I did while I was in Bangkok was a midnight tuk tuk food tour! If you are like me and are game to try anything and everything, having a guide lead the way can keep you from becoming overwhelmed. That, coupled with the sheer joy of travelling the city by tuk tuk really can’t be beat! To find your own tuk tuk food tour, explore your options on sites like withlocals, Get Your Guide, or Bangkok Food Tours.
Festivals
Thais know how to celebrate! Try to plan your trip around a festival or two and prepare to be charmed by the grace and power of religious rites that often follow the ebb and flow of the lunar cycles.
Loy Krathong
Loy Krathong is one of Thailand’s most enchanting festivals, celebrated on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, usually in November. This festival honours Phra Mae Khongkha, the goddess of water, and involves releasing beautifully decorated floating baskets (krathongs) onto rivers, lakes, and canals. The krathongs, often made from banana leaves and adorned with flowers, incense sticks, and candles, symbolize the release of past misfortunes and the welcoming of good luck.
While Loy Krathong is celebrated nationwide, some of the best places to experience it include Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, and Bangkok. In Chiang Mai, the festival coincides with Yi Peng, where thousands of lanterns are released into the sky.
Phi Ta Khon Festival in Loei
The Phi Ta Khon Festival (Ghost Festival, or “Happy Ghost Parade”) is a unique and vibrant celebration held in the Dan Sai district of Loei Province. This festival features colourful costumes, masks, and lively parades.
Phi Ta Khon typically takes place in June or July. Join the locals in the parades, enjoy traditional dances, and taste local delicacies. The festival’s origins are rooted in local folklore and Buddhist traditions, making it a fascinating cultural experience.
Songkran in Chiang Mai
While Songkran, the Thai New Year, is celebrated nationwide, Chiang Mai offers one of the most lively and spirited celebrations. The festival, held in April, involves water fights, processions, and religious ceremonies.
Be prepared to get wet! Join the water fights in the Old City and along the moat. Visit temples to participate in traditional ceremonies and witness the beautiful flower-decked processions. Wear light, quick-drying clothes and protect your belongings with waterproof bags.
Find Magic Beyond Thailand’s Main Destinations in 2025
Thanks to its delicious regional cuisine and stunning scenery, travellers across the globe flock to Thailand. It’s also rich in culture and full of friendly locals! While Bangkok and Phuket are well worth your time, many other communities throughout the country beg exploration. So, as you plan your 2025 adventures, explore some of these other travel-worthy destinations or one-of-a-kind experiences to uncover the true essence of Thailand.
