Thailand is among the most beautiful vacation spots in Southeast Asia. A trip here usually has an incredible contrast between luxury and stillness. During the holiday season, popular tourist spots like Bangkok and Phuket are usually packed with people. However, if you consider yourself to be an explorer at heart, you are probably looking for places where you can spend the holiday without the buzz of the crowds. You don’t have to worry because Thailand has so many unpopular places that will certainly enchant you. These regions may be less known but they are no less amazing than those that are famous. Here are 7 offbeat destinations in Thailand where you can have a peaceful and unforgettable holiday!
- Pai
- Sukhothai
- Trang
- Chiang Mai
- Koh Lipe
- Erawan Waterfalls
- Doi Luang Chiang Dao
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7 Best Offbeat Destinations in Thailand
In fact, Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. But with so much to see, it can be difficult to find the best offbeat places in Thailand. To help you out, we have compiled a complete list of the best offbeat destinations in Thailand that you can visit. Let’s dive right in!
1. Pai
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Pai is a natural sanctuary hidden in the northern hill region of Mae Hong Son. There are hiking routes with beautiful views all over the place. As you stroll down these paths, you get a better sense of Thai country life, which captures the spirit of effortless joy.
If you are looking for adventurous things to do in Thailand, a well-liked sport in this area is whitewater rafting because of the captivating river Pai. There are even a few temples, waterfalls, and hot springs in the style of Burma. Many tourists occasionally interact with the indigenous hill-tribe villagers to experience the local culture.
In fact, it is Northern Thailand’s sanctuary for hippies. The major streets of Pai get crowded at night with a range of food stalls and vendors. So, you can go and get a drink at one of the hippie-friendly bars along the river.
2. Sukhothai
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Sukhothai was the first ancient capital of Thailand and is now the location of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Around 200 historical structures and temple remains can be found in the Historical Park at Sukhothai.
It is surrounded by forests, ponds, paddy fields, and communities. Since there aren’t many tourists there, it’s ideal if you want to learn more about Thailand’s past without getting overrun by other tourists. You should definitely plan a Sukhothai tour if you wish to escape the noise of the city. You will be fascinated by its peacefulness and rustic surroundings in the most wonderful way.
3. Trang
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One of the things Thailand is famous for is the country’s beautiful beaches. An excellent alternative to Phuket’s crowded beaches is Trang. This underappreciated beach destination possesses immaculate white sand beaches and clear waters. Visit the cliffs of Ko Lao Leang or maybe go to Ko Libong to see the critically endangered dugongs.
Trang’s special cuisine is what makes it stand out from the other places in the country. Visitors from all over Thailand travel to Trang just to experience the region’s delectable seafood, dim sum, and pastries.
Take a ferry to the nearby islands to explore them. These serene havens don’t get a lot of visitors, and each island has something special to offer. You are sure to find something that you like amidst these beautiful islands.
4. Chiang Mai
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A place called Chiang Mai is found not too far from Chiang Rai. It is one of Thailand’s less popular tourist spots. The area is made more alluring by the impressive animals, Buddhist shrines, and some of the best historic Thai temples. With its stunning temples, bustling night markets, inviting cafés, and delicious restaurants, Chiang Mai’s old town is enthralling.
History buffs will surely be smitten with this city. Together, Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand make up the well-known Golden Triangle. It is for sure one of the best offbeat places in Thailand. This location offers several options to take part in several breathtaking activities while being remote from the commotion of mainstream Thailand.
5. Koh Lipe
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If you are someone who has always wanted to visit an exotic island but detested the crowds that come to such places, then you should go to Koh Lipe. It checks all the boxes: pearly white coastlines, turquoise oceans, luxurious resorts, and amiable residents.
Hat Sunrise and Hat Pattaya, two of Thailand’s loveliest beaches are situated on the island of Koh Lipe. These beaches have beautiful white sand and a large coral reef. Koh Lipe shares a border with Malaysia. And that’s what gives it its charm. Because the water is so crystal clear, you can snorkel right off the coast. When you’re not in the water, you could explore the little island’s lovely towns on foot.
A budget-friendly alternative to the Islands is to visit the Andaman Islands, which provide a very similar experience.
6. Erawan Waterfalls
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The Erawan waterfalls are among the country’s most beautiful waterfalls and deserve a place on your Thailand Bucket List. Along with the emerald lake, you will discover the pinnacle of mystical beauty. This waterfall itself is made up of 7 layers of waterfalls that cascade down a limestone terrace and are nestled away inside the Erawan National Park. The highest point is known as the three-headed elephant. This spot offers several possibilities to enjoy several of amazing activities while being away from the hubbub of mainstream Thailand.
7. Doi Luang Chiang Dao
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Doi Luang Chiang Dao is Thailand’s third-tallest mountain and unquestionably one of the best spots to visit in the country. Here, you can take in the spectacular sight of the haze. On a vacation to northern Thailand, it is the ideal peak to climb for a short hike. Standing atop this mountain, you can witness both the sunrise and the sunset. The mountain towers over the town and is a well-known landmark.
Doi Chiang Dao is well known for its diversity of animals and natural beauty, and travelers from all over the world flock there to go bird-watching. On your hike, you would have the wonderful opportunity to witness several tropical plants, various species of birds, and lush green trees.
Are these offbeat destinations in Thailand on your list?
These 7 offbeat destinations in Thailand are not just some places to go to. They promise to provide you with experiences that will redefine your life and fulfill your spirit. Visiting Thailand should cover every aspect of an ideal exotic vacation. From places overflowing with beautiful temples and deep woods to islands with pristine beaches and lagoons, you will not be disappointed with the variety you find here.
These are the kind of places where you will get to experience real Thai life, which is very different from living in big cities. With stunning mangroves, calm waters, lovely beaches, and friendly locals to win you over, you are bound to have the most wonderful vacation!
Don’t forget to save these offbeat places in Thailand on your list!
