Ready to soak up the magic of Thailand? Whether you’re dreaming of golden temples, vibrant street markets, lush islands, or simply relaxing under palm trees, Thailand has it all.
Wondering where to go in Thailand, or which are the must-visit places in Thailand? And of course, what on earth to pack for the trip – especially in that tropical heat? Not to worry, we’ve got you covered!
Where to Go in Thailand: Top Places to Visit & Must-See Destinations
When you’re planning your Thailand adventure, knowing the top places to visit in Thailand is like your secret weapon. Here are some of the best places in Thailand that should be on your radar, especially if you’re looking for a cultural, scenic, and unforgettable trip.
1. Bangkok
You can’t skip the capital. Bangkok is bursting with energy, from majestic wats to buzzing markets. Highlights include:
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) – This iconic riverside temple is famous for its towering prang and stunning architecture.
- Wat Pho – Home of the reclining Buddha and a historic centre for traditional Thai massage.
2. Ayutthaya
Just north of Bangkok, the Ayutthaya Historical Park is a treasure trove of crumbling temples and historic ruins. Here’s what you can explore…
- Wat Mahathat, where a Buddha head is entwined in tree roots.
- Wat Phanan Choeng, a riverside temple with a rich history.
3. Sukhothai
A UNESCO site and one of the must visit places in Thailand: the Sukhothai Historical Park features ruins of temples, palaces, and Buddha statues from Thailand’s earliest kingdom.
4. Chiang Mai
Head north to Chiang Mai for a more relaxed and spiritual side of Thailand.
- Doi Suthep (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep) sits high above the city with panoramic views and vibrant golden pagodas.
- Explore the Old City’s lanes filled with over 300 temples, cafés, markets, and the rich Lanna heritage.
5. Other Cultural Gems
- Phimai Historical Park – A Khmer-style temple complex in the northeast, lesser-known but architecturally stunning.
- Wat Phra Mahathat, in Nakhon Si Thammarat – a temple with deep spiritual meaning and exquisite design.
- Wat Si Khom Kham – Located in Phayao, this temple boasts a huge Lanna-style Buddha statue and peaceful lake surroundings.
- Phra That Phu Pek – An ancient Khmer ruin with a solar calendar carved into the stupa.
- Wat Pa Thama Uthayan – A unique, family-friendly temple in Khon Kaen with quirky sculptures (including peacocks and baby Buddhas) and forest-like serenity.
- Wat Yansangwararam – A vast complex with tranquil gardens, lakes, and pavilions.
What to Wear & What to Pack: Your Ultimate Clothes Checklist
One big question travellers ask: what to wear in Thailand? With its hot, humid weather and cultural expectations, packing right is key. Thailand’s climate (especially in the hot season) is humid and warm, so breathable, loose-fitting clothes are your best friends. On top of that, when you visit temples, modesty matters: shoulders and knees should be covered. Here’s a super-practical guide to clothes for Thailand and what to pack…
What to Pack
Here’s a handy breakdown of a go-to packing list for your exciting Thailand travels…
Clothing Essentials
- Lightweight T-shirts or tank tops (choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen)
- Loose shorts, skirts, linen trousers – perfect outfits for day-to-day exploring and comfy in the heat.
- Modest outfits for temple visits: long skirts or trousers and a shirt with sleeves, or a sarong/scarf to temporarily cover up.
- Lightweight dress (optional but handy for women)
- Swimwear (the beaches are calling) with a beach cover-up or sarong.
- Rain gear: If you’re traveling in the monsoon or rainy season, a compact rain jacket or poncho is super useful (thank us later!)
- Light layering: A breathable hoodie or long-sleeved shirt can help with air-conditioned interiors, or cooler nights in the north.
Footwear
- Comfy walking shoes for exploring temples or cities
- Sandals or flip-flops for beach days
- Closed-toe shoes can come in handy for hiking or uneven temple terrain.
Extras & Accessories
- A scarf or sarong – really useful for modesty (temple visits) and sun protection.
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The sun here doesn’t mess around!
- A reusable water bottle to keep hydrated in the heat.
- Universal travel adapter – Thailand uses several plug types.
- A first-aid kit and mosquito repellent – especially important if you’re heading off the beaten path.
- A quick-dry towel – lightweight and practical for when you’re on the go.
Packing Insider Tips
- Keep things light and breathable, fabrics like cotton, linen or moisture-wicking synthetics are ideal.
- Respect cultural norms – when visiting sacred sites, make sure your clothing respects temple dress codes.
- Buy locally if you need it – you don’t need to take everything but the kitchen sink with you! You can pick up cheap, lightweight clothes in Thailand if your luggage is tight. Plus, you’ll look the part!
- Pack for all weathers. Even if it’s hot, the rain can often make a cheeky surprise visit, and air-conditioned transport or hotels can feel chilly without a light layer.
Why These Are the Best Places to Visit in Thailand
When you combine these must visit places in Thailand, from the bustling temples and floating markets of Bangkok to the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, to the spiritual calm of Chiang Mai’s hilltop wats, you get a spectacular snapshot of what makes Thailand so truly special.
And with the right packing list for Thailand, you can enjoy every moment in comfort and style – whether you’re snapping pics beside island monkeys, bargaining at a market, or unwinding on a sandy beach.
Facebook
Twitter
Email 
