Thailand is a country with something for everyone, from stunning beaches to ancient temples, and bustling cities to quiet islands. While many visitors flock to the popular destinations like Bangkok and Phuket, there are also many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this post, we’ll explore some of the lesser-known destinations in Thailand that are worth adding to your itinerary.

Khao Yai National Park

Located just a few hours from Bangkok, Khao Yai National Park is one of Thailand’s largest and most popular national parks. 

Khao Yai National Park is a great place to experience Thailand’s abundant wildlife. The park is home to several species of primates, including gibbons, macaques, and langurs. Visitors can also spot elephants, deer, wild boar, and even tigers. If you’re lucky, you might even see a clouded leopard or a black bear. The park’s birdlife is also impressive, with over 300 species recorded, including hornbills, eagles, and owls.

In addition to its wildlife, Khao Yai National Park has some impressive waterfalls. Haew Narok Waterfall is the tallest in the park, dropping over 150 meters into a deep gorge. Another popular waterfall is Haew Suwat, which was featured in the movie “The Beach.”

One of the best ways to experience the park is on a guided night safari. These tours take you into the park after dark, when many of the animals are most active. You’ll have the chance to see everything from deer and civets to porcupines and wild elephants.

Koh Mak

Koh Mak is a quiet island that is perfect for a relaxing getaway. The island has a small community of farmers and fishermen, who still use traditional methods to make a living. Visitors can explore the island by bike or motorbike, stopping off at secluded beaches and sleepy villages along the way.

One of the island’s most interesting attractions is the Koh Mak Museum, which showcases the island’s history and culture. The museum features exhibits on the island’s fishing industry, as well as displays on local handicrafts and traditional medicine.

Koh Mak is also home to several traditional Thai massage and wellness centers. These centers offer a range of treatments, from herbal compresses to foot massages, all designed to help you relax and rejuvenate.

Pai

Pai is a small town that has become a popular destination for backpackers and hippies. The town has a laid-back vibe, with plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants catering to the backpacker crowd. One of the town’s most popular attractions is the Pai Night Market, where visitors can sample a range of street food and shop for souvenirs.

Pai is also known for its natural hot springs. The Pong Duat Hot Springs are located just outside of town and are a great place to relax after a day of hiking or exploring. The hot springs are said to have therapeutic properties and are popular with both locals and tourists.

One of the best ways to experience Pai is by renting a motorbike and exploring the surrounding countryside. There are several scenic routes that take you through lush forests and past stunning viewpoints.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a great place to experience traditional Thai culture. The island is home to several traditional fishing villages, where visitors can see how the locals live and work. The village of Ban Sang Ka-U is particularly interesting, with its stilt houses and fishing boats.

Koh Lanta is also home to several national parks, including Mu Koh Lanta National Park. The park covers several islands and has a variety of hiking trails that take visitors through lush forests and past stunning viewpoints. The park is also home to several species of wildlife, including langurs, macaques

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand. It’s a popular destination for divers and snorkelers, with clear waters and a rich marine life. The island is home to several dive shops, which offer courses for beginners and advanced divers alike.

One of the most popular dive sites on Koh Tao is Chumphon Pinnacle, a large granite pinnacle that rises from the sea floor. The pinnacle is home to a variety of marine life, including barracudas, jacks, and whale sharks. Another popular dive site is Southwest Pinnacle, which is known for its colorful corals and large schools of fish.

For non-divers, Koh Tao has several beautiful beaches that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Sairee Beach is the longest and most popular beach on the island, with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can also explore the island’s hiking trails, which take you through lush forests and past stunning viewpoints.

Koh Tao is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs catering to the island’s young and energetic crowd. Visitors can enjoy live music, fire shows, and beach parties, making Koh Tao a great destination for those looking to let loose and have some fun.