last edited Dec 30, 2019
What to See in Thailand
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Despite being a major tourist destination with many historical and cultural landmarks, Thailand has only five sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The most famous are Ayutthaya and Sukhothai Thani, both former capitals that house countless remnants of their past.
By Region
While the south and Bangkok attract most visitors, the rest of Thailand also offers a wealth of interesting places and sites.
- What to See in Bangkok and Its Surroundings: The capital (though not necessarily "transcendent"), Ayutthaya with its stunning UNESCO-listed monuments, Ko Chang island (beaches, nature, diving), and Pattaya (the country’s first seaside resort but often quite seedy) are the main attractions in central Thailand.
- What to See in the North and Isaan: A mix of culture and nature, with plenty of trekking opportunities in the north (especially around Chiang Mai), the Golden Triangle, and several national parks (Doi Inthanon, Khao Yai, etc.). The region also includes Isaan, off the beaten path, and several renowned archaeological sites, particularly Khmer ones like Kamphaeng Phet, Khao Phra Wihan, and Sukhothai, the first capital of Siam.
- What to See in Southern Thailand: Beach resorts, islands, diving spots, and the most tourist-heavy part of Thailand, featuring places like Krabi, Ko Samui (and other "Ko" islands), and of course Phuket. Alongside these, there are beautiful natural sites like Phang Nga Bay and parks such as Khao Luang and Khao Sok.