Nestled in Southeast Asia, Thailand allures with its blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. From vibrant cities to serene landscapes, Thailand’s landmarks showcase its diverse beauty and heritage. In this article, we’ll explore some of the country’s most iconic sights, each offering a unique glimpse into Thailand’s rich tapestry.
Here are 25 incredible landmarks in Thailand, recommended by other travellers!
Koh Phangan
Recommended by Veronika Primm from Travel Geekery
Koh Phangan can be found in the Gulf of Thailand east of the southern Thai mainland, forming a renowned trio with Koh Samui and Koh Tao.
It strikes a perfect balance in size—ample amenities, beaches, and natural beauty, yet compact enough for easy exploration.
Accessing Koh Phangan typically involves flying to Koh Samui and catching a ferry, though budget travelers often fly to Surat Thani on the mainland and hop on a longer ferry ride.
Despite its reputation for the monthly Full Moon parties, Koh Phangan offers a rich collection of activities beyond nightlife. It has long been a spiritual haven; historically, monks sought refuge and kings embarked on spiritual journeys here.
Today, this legacy continues with numerous yoga retreat centers offering sessions, detox programs, and even yoga teacher training.
Other possible things to do in Koh Phangan include enjoying pristine beaches for relaxation, nature trails for hiking, authentic Thai massage for rejuvenation, and temple visits for cultural immersion.
Go see e.g. the colorful Chinese temple, which provides stunning views too.
Koh Phangan has also become a hotspot for digital nomads, thanks to its work-friendly cafés and relaxed atmosphere.
James Bond Island
Recommended by Keri from Mama Loves Phuket
Possibly the most iconic view of Thailand’s dramatic limestone islands, the rock formation of Ko Tapu has been affectionately referred to as James Bond Island since it famously appeared in the 1974 movie “The Man With The Golden Gun”.
For decades now the allure of the emerald waters has attracted visitors to Ao Phang Nga National Park to photograph its natural beauty. This is easy to organise as a day trip from Phuket or Krabi, with multiple different tour companies running larger ferries and speed boats, as well as longtail boats into Phang Nga Bay.
Docking at the tiny island Khao Phing Kan, you will be greeted with some small vendor stalls then free to explore the short path around the island whilst taking your iconic photos of Ko Tapu, about 40 metres offshore; do we warned, you’ll not be alone and it’s difficult to capture a nice photo from the beach without hundreds of tourists, but patience is a virtue! Hiring your own boat to arrive very early in the day or prior to sunset you are likely to encounter fewer crowds.
As your time visting “James Bond Island” will likely only last around 1 hour, most island-hopping tours will also combine a stop with nearby islands such as Hong Islands, Koh Panak, and Koh Panyee (the floating gypsy village).
You can expect most tours into Phang Nga Bay to last all day, costing in the vicinity of $40 USD per person for group tours, through to $130 USD per person for smaller private groups. Your tour should include the required entry fee to the National Park of 300 baht per adult.
Kanchanaburi
Recommended by Abbie and Jack from A Couple’s Calling
Although not one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, Kanchanaburi is certainly worth a visit. This town is found in Kanchanaburi Province in Western Thailand, under a 4-hour drive from the capital of Bangkok.
There’s no airport here, but Kanchanaburi is still well-connected to the rest of Thailand. You can easily reach the town from other destinations by bus and train (the latter may see you head over the River Kwai).
Kanchanaburi is a fascinating destination full of culture and beauty, although it has a dark past. This place is located along the ‘Death Railway’, a rail route built to link Thailand and Myanmar.
It was constructed during WWII by prisoners of war (POWs) and civilians who were forced to work on the railway by the Japanese forces. Conditions were horrific and it’s estimated that over 100,000 people died due to disease, maltreatment, and starvation.
While here, you’ll want to learn more about the local history by visiting the JEATH War Museum, the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, and The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. You’ll also want to walk along the ‘Bridge over the River Kwai’.
In terms of accommodation, you’ll find some beautiful options located along the river.
Koh Nang Yuan
Recommended by Marjut from The Smooth Escape
Koh Nang Yuan is a group of three small islets next to the island of Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand. It can be reached by a taxi boat from Koh Tao and the journey takes just 15 minutes.
What makes Koh Nang Yuan special is the fact that the three islets are connected by a bright white sand bank. This, together with the surrounding turquoise water, creates a spectacular paradise-like setting. The beach on Koh Nang Yuan’s sandbank is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in Koh Tao.
It’s the perfect place to spend a relaxing day by the sea. Rent a sunchair, soak up some sun and cool down in the crystal clear waters at the beach. Remember to also bring your snorkeling mask and go explore the fantastic underwater world around the island. Another must-do activity here is to hike to the Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint for a wonderful panorama over the three islets.
As Koh Nang Yuan is a private island, all visitors must pay an entrance fee of 250 THB.
Railay Beach
Recommended by Sara and Ryan from Across Every Border
If you’re looking for a quintessential landmark in Thailand, then look now further than the infamous Railay!
Ever seen those famous Instagram photos of the fishing boats on the beach? Yup, that’s the place!
Railay is a peninsula in southern Thailand that’s only reachable by ฿200 boat from the nearby towns of Ao Nang and Ao Nam Mao – in the province of Krabi.
Once you arrive on Railay you have a ton of activities to choose from. Some favorites are the Diamond Cave, Phra Nang Beach, Railay Beach and the Princess Cave (a cave full of wooden penises…).
If you’re feeling bold, scale the cliffs all the way up to Railay Viewpoint and get one of the best views in southern Thailand. If you’re feeling even bolder, climb down to the Railay Beach Lagoon – a body of water fed by the ocean surrounded by cliffs. But be sure to wear appropriate footwear as it’s a difficult climb.
It can be a bit pricey, but definitely consider booking a hotel on Railay in advance. They sell out quickly, but two days would be perfect for a visit. And you could even catch the sunrise!
Sukhothai
Recommended by Catherine Xu of Nomadicated
Sukhothai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a Thai destination with profound historical significance and impressive ruins. Located in central Thailand, this ancient city flourished in the 13th and 14th centuries as the first capital of Thailand and the beginning of Thai civilization.
The most convenient way to reach Sukhothai is by flying from Bangkok to Sukhothai Airport, about an hour’s journey. Alternatively, for those who prefer road trips, buses and a combo of trains are possible from Bangkok or Chiang Mai. However, these options are considerably longer, taking anywhere from 5 to 7 hours.
Upon arrival, the Sukhothai Historical Park is an expansive park sectioned off into different areas of well-preserved ruins of royal palaces, Buddhist temples, and ancient city walls. Key attractions within the park include Wat Mahathat, the spiritual center of the kingdom; Wat Si Chum, known for its gigantic seated Buddha; and Wat Sa Si, set in front of a reflective pond. Don’t forget a visit to the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum too.
Because the park is so large, it is best explored by bicycle, which you can also use to ride through the countryside. The entry fee to the historical park is approximately 100 Thai Baht per zone, with the park being divided into 5 zones.
Loha Prasat (Wat Ratchanatdaram)
Recommended by Alex from Adventure to Every Country
Often overlooked in favour of the Grand Palace, Wat Ratchanatdaram, most commonly known as Loha Prasat, is one of the most spectacular Buddhist temples in Bangkok.
Loha Prasat is located in Bangkok, just a 25-minute walk from the Grand Palace, 10 minutes from the Golden Mount and 14 minutes from Sam Yot (the nearest metro station).
It stands out due to its 37 golden spires poking up towards the sky. It is the only temple of its kind worldwide, having originally been modelled on a Sri Lankan temple which no longer exists. The closest comparison today would be temples in Yangon, Myanmar.
Loha Prasat is most notable for its appearance from the outside, but in the building a large golden Buddha sits peacefully in the centre of a large room, with several smaller Buddhas supporting it.
This temple is well worth seeing, and best combined with a trip to the nearby Golden Mount for half a morning or so.
Entry fee: 20 baht per person (10 baht for Thais)
Opening hours 8am-5pm every day
White Temple in Chiang Rai
Recommended by Guillem from Feast of Travel
Even if you haven’t heard of the city of Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand, you probably have seen the White Temple of Chiang Rai. Known in Thai as Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple is an architectural masterpiece and a very unique take on traditional Thai architecture. It keeps the intricacy of Thai carvings in temples, but strips it of all color and gold, symbolizing Buddha’s purity. This leaves a beautiful temple all in white, silver and mirrors and with carvings and sculptures representing the teachings of the Buddha and the path to enlightenment.
To get there, you’ll have to get to Chiang Rai. The most popular way to get to Chiang Rai is by bus from Chiang Mai, which will take around 3-4h. In fact, some people even visit as a day trip from Chiang Mai. Alternatively, you can get there by plane from most main destinations in Thailand, as well as some international destinations. You’ll find the White Temple around 14km south of Chiang Rai, which is easily accessible by motorbike, car hailing service or a bus from Chiang Rai’s bus terminal. The entry fee for the White Temple is only 50THB (1,76€) and it’s open every day from 8am to 6pm.
Pai
Recommended by Flavia Desario from unmundoahiafuera.com
Pai, nestled in the mountainous landscape of northern Thailand, is a cute hippie town known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.
Getting to Pai is quite an adventure! The road has 762 twists and turns, and Thai drivers are known for going pretty fast. But don’t worry, if you’re okay with curvy roads and don’t get car sick easily, the trip is absolutely beautiful. You’ll see amazing mountain views and lush greenery all the way.
You can book a minivan from Chiang Mai to Pai, the drive takes about three hours. If you’re adventurous and prefer motorbikes, driving yourself is also an option.
Some of the best activities in Pai include hiking in Pai Canyon, relaxing in the natural hot springs, admiring the White Buddha statue at Wat Phra That Mae Yen, and tasting Thai street food at the night market.
Driving around on a scooter is the best way to discover the town and its picturesque surroundings, such as the rice terraces, viewpoints, and waterfalls.
The high season in Pai goes from December to March when prices usually increase. To avoid the crowds and get better deals, visiting in October or November, just before the peak season starts, is recommended.
Koh Lanta
Recommended by Džangir Kolar from Dr Jam Travels
Koh Lanta is an archipelago district in Krabi province in southwest Thailand located on the Andaman Sea. The easiest way to arrive here is overseas by ferry/speed boat from Phuket or Krabi where you have airports. Alternatively, you can use a minibus/van to drive to Krabi in 3 hours.
At the pier in Saladan, you will catch a tuk-tuk (100 THB) to your accommodation. You can stay at a high-end resort or rent a cheap bungalow from locals (as low as 500 THB per night for a twin bed).
People choose to visit these islands because it is not as crowded as Phi Phi or Phuket, you can enjoy nature and still find some parties (Pangea, Time, Ieri, Mushroom bar).
As this is an archipelago, main activities are connected to the sea. Klong Dao, Phra Ae, and Long Beach are some of the best beaches.
You can opt for a half-day island hopping for 800 THB to visit great snorkeling spots. On land you can visit Mu Ko Lanta National Park in the south, many hiking trails with few waterfalls and caves, or Old Town with wooden houses in the east.
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang
Recommended by Dotti from Explore Travel Oasis
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is a 13th-century Lanna-style Buddhist compound in northern Thailand. Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is one of the best things to do in Lampang, or Northern Thailand for that matter.
The compound is surrounded by a fortified wall, creating a medieval feeling. Inside the compound is Wihan Luang, which some consider the most beautiful wooden Lanna temple in all of Northern Thailand.
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is located 17 km southwest of Lampang, which is around 100 km southeast of Chiang Mai.
Public transport to Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is very limited, so by far the best way to get there is by renting a car or scooter. You can pick up either a car or scooter in Lampang easily, with many places offering affordable daily rentals.
If self-driving, use Waze for directions and be sure to take the back roads, as they’re very scenic and peppered with multiple cute cafes and restaurants to stop at.
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is open from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm and is free to enter. It’s best visited during the week, as it becomes very busy with domestic tourists on weekends.
Khao Yai National Park
Recommended by Steffi from Beach Bum Adventure
One of the best places to visit in Thailand is Khao Yai National Park. It is one of Thailand’s oldest jungle areas and is home to amazing wildlife, from wild elephants to noisy gibbons. You can enter the national park using your own transport or do a guided tour through Greenleaf tours who have amazing tour guides to spot all the wildlife for you.
You can do both private and group tours with Greenleaf depending on your budget. There are some set hiking trails you can do alone to waterfalls and around the visitor centre but for anything more adventurous a guide is always recommended.
The national park fee is 400 baht per day. You also have the option to camp inside the park if you are feeling adventurous and can rent all equipment from the campsite office. Alternatively stay in hotels along the edge of the park and travel in from there. The best time to visit is during the dry season when you have a better chance of spotting wild elephants. Dry season is between November-April.
Khao Yai national park is about 2 hours from Bangkok and you can take a shared minivan to Pak Chong from Mochit bus station. From Pak Chong your hotel near the national park will collect you.
The Golden Mount
Recommended by Linda from Muy Linda Travels
The Golden Mount, also known as Wat Saket is a beautiful Buddhist Temple set high on a hill in the centre of Bangkok. The golden shrine is a landmark in Bangkok’s Old Town and from the rooftop of the temple, there are panoramic views over the city. An ancient Royal Temple from the Ayutthaya period The Golden Mount has great significance as a place of worship.
320 steps lead up the hill to the sanctuary and there are several levels of the temple to discover before reaching the rooftop where a golden stupa holds ancient relics of the Buddha. From here the views stretch for miles across the city.
The Golden Mount is located close to Wat Suthat and not far from the Grand Palace. It’s a beautiful place to watch the sunset in Bangkok whether you’re visiting Thailand alone or with family and friends. Tuk-tuks and taxis wait at the temple entrance and the ticket office charges a 200 Baht entrance fee.
Make sure you dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered or you may not be allowed to enter the temple.
Monk’s Trail in Chiang Mai
Recommended by Pete from The Backpacking Family
If you’re exploring Chiang Mai don’t miss the Monks Trail. This is a 2.4km jungle path leading up a hill to Wat Pha Lat – a unique and beautiful jungle temple.
Wat Pha Lat has an ancient, mysterious and intrepid vibe with pools, statues, pagodas and different temple buildings. If you hike the trail between 7am – 11am there is a good chance of seeing Monks on the trail (it is also cooler at this time).
The monks descend early in the morning to collect alms in town and return to the temple late in the morning.
You can easily do the Monks Trail Hike in the morning from Chiang mai Old Town. Bring a small day bag with water and snacks and wear good hiking shoes.
The hike takes around 30 minutes each way and is free of charge. Search “Wat Pha Lat Hike (Monk’s trail)” on google maps for the correct location of the start of the trail. You can get here by Grab or Bolt taxi for around 100 – 200 baht from central Chiang Mai.
Ao Phang-Nga National Park
Recommended by Run Walk Explore
Ao Phang-Nga National Park is a magical marine protected area off the Andaman coast. It’s a mesmerising seascape that’s home to turquoise clear waters, pristine beaches, and stunning karst rock formations.
James Bond Island is probably the most famous of its sights, renowned as the setting for The Man With The Golden Gun. But there’s so much more to explore (and ways to escape the tourist crowds) in this marine national park. From discovering hidden caves by kayak to snorkelling in deserted bays, it’s a haven for water activities.
The park is open throughout the high season (mid-October to mid-May) but closes during the rainy period. You’ll need to join an organised boat tour to explore the park which typically costs around $50 per person.
Most tours include James Bond island, cave kayaking, and snorkelling. But it’s worth shopping around to find a boat company that departs early so you can avoid peak-time tourist crowds. Tours leave from Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, Ko Phi Phi, and Ko Lanta.
The Grand Palace, Bangkok
Recommended by Kim of Explore Your Bucket List
Located in central Bangkok, the Grand Palace is an enormous complex and is a must-see location while visiting the city. Dating back to 1782, it was originally built as the royal residence and contained the administration offices. Now it is mainly used for ceremonial purposes and as a tourist attraction.
The numerous buildings are incredible to look at with every surface covered in gold or bronze gilt and beautiful, ornate tiling. Several buildings are open to see, but the major highlights are the Grand Palace Hall, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (considered to be the most important temple in Thailand) and the Chapel of the Emerald Buddha.
Buses go directly to the Grand Palace, or you can take the express boat service along the Chao Phraya. Alternatively, you can take a private car or tuk-tuk to the main entrance.
The site is open daily from 8:30am – 4:30pm and the entrance fee for foreign visitors is 500 baht. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or on-site.
If you can, visit earlier in the morning when it isn’t as busy, and bring water as the temperatures can be very high in the open complex. Please note the dress code is modest including no shoulders showing or shorts.
Doi Inthanon
Recommended by Avantika from Wayward Wayfarer
Doi Inthanon is a national park, and the highest peak in Thailand, and one of the most unique things to do in Thailand. It is located at 2,565 meters above sea level, about 60 kilometres southwest of Chiang Mai city in northern Thailand.
The best way to reach Doi Inthanon is by hiring a private car or joining a guided tour from Chiang Mai. Alternatively, travellers can take a shared taxi or “songthaew” to Chom Thong, a town at the base of the mountain, and then hire a local taxi to the national park.
There are a number of things one can do at Doi Inthanon including hiking several trails within the national park and visiting one of its many waterfalls like Wachirathan and Siriphum. One can choose to either hike to the summit or drive up. Either way, the top offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and forests.
Located near the summit are also the Royal Twin Pagodas, dedicated to the King and Queen of Thailand. These pagodas boast unique architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding them.
Doi Inthanon is also inhabited by various hill tribe communities, such as the Karen and Hmong. Visitors can visit the local villages and shop at the tribal markets for local wine, textiles, spices and more.
The entry fee for foreigners is 300 baht per adult. The best time to visit Doi Inthanon is from November to February. However, it is best to always carry a light jacket as it can get quite chilly and windy due to its height.
Amphawa Floating Market, Bangkok
Recommended by Lavina D’Souza of Continent Hop
The Amphawa Floating Market is located in the waterways near Bangkok and it provides an intriguing peek into traditional Thai market life. This market is slightly closer to Bangkok than its counterpart-Damnoen Saduak.
You will experience a lively atmosphere where small wooden boats laden with fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies ply the waters. It is ideal to take a mini-van from Bangkok to visit this market. Services frequently depart from the Victory Monument area, providing a straightforward route.
There are several things to do here to make your 7 days in Thailand itinerary more fun. Eat delicious street food produced in floating kitchens or explore an unusual mix of handmade goods and souvenirs. The market is attractive due to its genuine display of Thai culture, which provides a scenic environment that captivates photographers and cultural aficionados alike. For an enhanced experience, consider a boat tour to explore the surrounding canals and visit nearby temples.
Arrive early to beat the crowds, typically before 10 AM. While entry to the market is free, boat tours and certain attractions may charge a fee. The best time to visit is the weekend when the market is in full swing, offering the most vibrant experience.
Koh Jum
Recommended by Annelies from Travelers & Dreamers
A hidden gem in Thailand that many travelers have never heard about is the island of Koh Jum.
Koh Jum, with the northern part of the island also referred to as Ko Pu, lies between Krabi and Koh Lanta on the Southwestern coast of Thailand. While most tourists flock to these nearby popular destinations, Koh Jum offers something that is hard to find in Thailand these days: tranquility.
The best way to reach Koh Jum is by making your way to Krabi first. You can fly into Krabi National Airport or take a bus if you travel around Thailand by road. From the center of Krabi, you will then have to look for a blue songthaew that is going to Leam Kruat Pier in Khlong Khanan. From Lean Kruat pier, traditional longtail boats leave for Koh Jum about every hour and the journey takes about 45 minutes.
The best things to do in Koh Jum are snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing. Koh Jum is the perfect island for you if you like to stray off the beaten path and prefer an authentic local Thai atmosphere instead of islands with Western-style restaurants and dozens of tourist agencies. If you are looking for a place to stay, check out the Smile Beach Bungalows on Ao Si Beach.
The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya
Recommended by Tom from Tom Henty’s Travel
Visiting the temples in Thailand is a popular activity for International tourists, all offering unique features, and none more so than the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya.
Although it is technically a museum, the Sanctuary of Truth is treated as a place of worship. The iconic structure has been constructed completely out of wood and is carved with intricate Buddha themed decor throughout, which was done by hand by the locals.
The Sanctuary’s setting on the coast surrounded by beautiful nature adds a serene feeling as you are free to wander around the various external viewpoints, and its impressive internal spaces.
You can reach the Sanctuary in 15 minutes from Pattaya by taxi or bus, with many taxi drivers happy to wait and take you back to the city.
The world class Thai craftsmanship on display makes the museum a must on your Thailand itinerary. As with other places of worship in Thailand, you do have to cover your knees, however, you can hire a pair of trousers to go over your shorts when you arrive for a small fee.
There are elephants on site, but it is unethical to ride the beautiful animals, so just explore by foot, so you don’t promote the activity.
Entry fee – 500 Baht (£11) for foreign visitors.
Opening times – 8am until 8.30 pm everyday, but is closed 6pm – 6.30pm
Insider tip – an early morning visit is more manageable with the heat and sunshine.
Doi Suthep
Recommended by Tamara from My Elated Odyssey
Doi Suthep should be high on your list if you’re looking for the best landmarks in Thailand.
This landmark is located in Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand. No matter what time of the year you visit Chiang Mai, this is a must-see! The best way to get there is to first fly to Chiang Mai International Airport.
From there, you have three main options for reaching it: grabbing a ride in a red songthaew, hiking the monk’s trail from Wat Pha Lat, or using a rental vehicle. You should visit the charming Wat Pha Lat temple even if you don’t hike the monk’s trail.
One of the top things to do at Doi Suthep is visit the Wat Phra That temple. This is Chaing Mai’s most significant Buddhist temple, and it’s no surprise why!
The temple is covered in gold decor, creating an incredible scene. There are numerous areas to pray on the grounds, and there’s even the opportunity to get a blessing from a monk.
From the top, you can also see stunning panoramic views of Chiang Mai’s landscape.
Please note that it requires around 300 steps to reach the holy temple. There’s a lift available if you’re unable to climb the steps.
Wat Arun
Recommended by Sophie from Delightful Travel Notes
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a Buddhist temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. With its unique architectural design, this temple is one of the most famous landmarks and most visited attractions in the city.
The facade of the temple is decorated with colorful porcelain and ceramic tiles, creating intricate patterns that are especially stunning when illuminated by the morning light. The central prang is an impressive towering structure surrounded by four smaller prangs. At the top of the central prang is a seven-pronged trident which is believed to be the Trident of Shiva.
This area of Bangkok is not yet served by its BTS or MRT systems. Visitors can reach Wat Arun by ferry or by car, using services like Grab or taxis. If taking a Grab car or taxi, you should factor in additional time due to heavy traffic in Bangkok. When visiting this temple as well as other religious places in Thailand, visitors are required to dress properly with shoulders and knees covered.
As this is one of the must-see places in Bangkok, the site can become packed with tourists. For the best experience and photo opportunities, go early if you can. It will be less hot and less crowded in the early morning, making your visit more enjoyable.
Khao Luang
Recommended by Ami Bhat from Thrilling Travel
Just 2 hours away from Bangkok, in a small town called Phetchaburi, is a mysterious cave by the name of Khao Luang. What makes this place spectacular is the presence of scores of Golden Buddha statues within it. These enigmatic figures of varying sizes and poses are placed between the stalactites across the natural ledges of the caverns. The spiritual aura of the caves is further enhanced by the presence of several chedis within it.
What is today a live temple actually dates back to the Ayutthaya era of the 1350s. It is believed that the cavern was home to an ancient Chedi around which footprints of Buddha were found. Later during the reign of King Rama IV, this temple was rediscovered and restored. It is now a protected ancient monument of Thailand.
You can visit Khao Luang caves for free on any day between 9 am to 4 pm. The best way to get to Phetchaburi from Bangkok is by road. You can hire a cab from the city or try catching a public bus to this town. Alternatively, there are one or two trains from Bangkok to Phetchaburi.
The Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)
Recommended by Madison from Madison’s Footsteps
No visit to Krabi is complete without a stop at one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Thailand—the Tiger Cave temple or Wat Tham Suea. Located about 19 km from Ao Nang, this temple is worth every second of travel time (especially since entrance is free!).
Although you can book a ride on Grab or InDriver, it’s recommended to reserve a car in advance since rides are scarce once you arrive at the temple.
Nicknamed “The Tiger Cave Temple” after a Buddhist monk witnessed tigers roaming outside the temple in 1975, you’d be hard-pressed to find better views—even in Thailand. The temple is topped with a massive gold Buddha statue, but you’ll need to do some serious hiking in order to reach it. The top of the temple is located 1,275 steps up at a whopping 309 meters high, so be sure to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes.
After exploring this famous Thailand landmark, head back to Krabi to try some famous Thai dishes (like spicy papaya salads, seafood curry, and tom ka gha soup) at some of Ao Nang’s best restaurants.
Hellfire Pass
Recommended by Marya from The BeauTraveler
The bridge on the River Kwai isn’t the only notable place to visit in Kanchanaburi province for the tragic history of the Thai-Burma Railway construction during World War 2.
Another landmark in Thailand you should visit is Hellfire Pass in Nam Tok – a small town situated just 50 kilometers from the city of Kanchanaburi.
If you plan to get on the Death Railway route by train from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, Nam Tok is the last stop for the train. It takes around 3 hours from Kanchanaburi, or around 5 hours if you take the train all the way from Bangkok.
Also known as Konyu Cutting, Hellfire Pass is an abandoned section of the Thai-Burma railway that has been transformed into a memorial site and shrines to honor the survivors and the dead under the Japanese occupation in Thailand.
There are two walking trails that you can choose from when visiting Hellfire Pass.
The first one ends at the memorial site, while the next one will lead you to a few other railway passes with the final stop at a valley where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful view of the Tenasserim Hills and its surroundings.
