Choose from 178 Fun Things to Do in Thailand
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 178 listings.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Few markets couple ephemeral wares—fresh fruits, fish, foods, and colorful flower bouquets—with culture, chaos, and tradition like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. One of the largest and last remaining floating markets in Thailand, this authentic market has entranced travelers and photographers the world over with its vividly colorful scenes of vendors offering goods from long-tailed boats on the sleepy green Damnoen Saduak canal, built by King Rama IV in the 19th century.
The Basics
The famous floating market is commonly visited on half- and full-day tours from Bangkok. Popular options include a guided boat ride along the canal in a long-tailed speedboat or umbrella-shaded paddle boat and a riverside group bike excursion that explores the countryside and nearby canals (klongs) for a better appreciation of local life. Both group and private tours are available, and round-trip transportation from Bangkok is typically included. Because the market wraps up around midday, the experience is often coupled with a visit to the Sampran riverside Thai village or the stupa at Phra Pathom Chedi (Phra Pathommachedi) in Nakhon Pathom, the tallest stupa in Thailand.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is no admission fee for the market.
- Remember to wear a hat and sunblock—much of the market is shadeless.
- Some of the vendor offerings are geared toward locals, while others typically sell souvenirs to travelers.
- Pay attention to your valuables and be courteous when taking photos of vendors or their goods.
- Vendors generally accept only Thai baht as payment.
How to Get There
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located some 62 miles (100 kilometers) southwest of downtown Bangkok city in the southern part of the Ratchaburi province, a journey of about 90 minute by road. Most visitors arrive by organized tour from Bangkok, though it is possible to take a taxi or public bus.
When to Get There
The market runs every morning from 7am to 11am. Arrive early for the best pick of the produce, to spend the most time wandering amid the vendors before boat traffic picks up around 9am, and to beat the heat, especially during the sweltering summer months of March, April, and May. Toward midday, when vendors pack up, it may be possible to negotiate for better deals.
What to Buy at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
To make the most of your market tour, you may want to interact with vendors and purchase some of their unusual, delicious, and practical goods. Taste smelly durian, order fried bananas served via fishing pole, or select a straw hat from a canalside stall. Whatever you choose, you’ll need to bring Thai baht in small bills and bartering skills. Bartering is part of the local culture and will help to get you the best price.
Address: Ratchaburi, Thailand
Hours: Daily 9am - 2pm
Admission: Free
From $ 20
Freedom Beach
Not far from the electric energy of the ever-popular Patong lies the small 300-meter shore of Freedom Beach—a quiet gem of a destination on Phuket’s west coast. Hop aboard a traditional long-tail boat at the southern end of Patong Beach and enjoy the cool breeze of a peaceful 10-minute ride to what many say feels like a remote island shore.
Sunbathers can stretch out on pristine beaches and relax in the sand surrounded by scenic tropical hills, while more active sorts can play beach soccer or snorkel in the crystal clear and always warm waters that wash Freedom’s shore.
Sunbathers can stretch out on pristine beaches and relax in the sand surrounded by scenic tropical hills, while more active sorts can play beach soccer or snorkel in the crystal clear and always warm waters that wash Freedom’s shore.
Practical Info
Roundtrip boat rides to Freedom Beach are offered on a sliding scale, between 1,000 and 1,500 baht. The beach is also accessible by car, with a public parking lot a short—but challenging—walk from the bay near Avista Hideaway Resort. Locals keep watch on the lot and charge about 100 baht to park.
Address: Phuket, Thailand
From $ 44
Golden Mount (Wat Saket)
The Golden Mount - or Wat Saket - was constructed by King Rama I shortly after the founding of Bangkok. Built just outside the original city walls and intended as a burial site, the mount has many thousands of bodies interned here - most of them dating from Rama II's rule when plague swept through the city.
Built on swampy ground, the hill was rebuilt by Rama III who added a chedi (stupa) which promptly collapsed due to the shifting foundations. Rama V built the golden chedi we see today on the rubble of the previous chedi. The golden chedi is rumored to contain some of Buddha's remains – including his teeth. Concrete walls were constructed during World War II to ensure the structure remains stable.
Built on swampy ground, the hill was rebuilt by Rama III who added a chedi (stupa) which promptly collapsed due to the shifting foundations. Rama V built the golden chedi we see today on the rubble of the previous chedi. The golden chedi is rumored to contain some of Buddha's remains – including his teeth. Concrete walls were constructed during World War II to ensure the structure remains stable.
The Golden Mount looks its best at night when it glows gold against the dark sky. It is worth visiting in the daytime too for fantastic views across the city.
Practical Info
If you are visiting Bangkok in the first week of November, you should visit the annual fair at the Golden Mount, which is lit with colored lanterns and wrapped in cloth. At this time, the entire compound turns into a giant fun fair .The Golden Mount is several blocks east of the Grand Palace in the Old City (Rattanakosin district). There is no straightforward public transport here and it is best to catch a taxi or tuk-tuk.
Address: Ratchadamnoen Klang and Boripihat Roads, Old City, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Open daily 8am - 9pm
Admission: ฿10 donation expected
From $ 23
Elephant Nature Park
A sanctuary for former ill-treated Asian elephants, the Elephant Nature Park encourages visitors to learn about the plight of these mammals and their habitat through activities, such as feeding and helping to care for the resident herd. Elephant rides are not offered at the park, a policy the park encourages in other elephant camps.
The Basics
Most travelers visit the elephant sanctuary on a day trip from Chiang Mai. A daylong elephant experience includes the chance to observe the animals in the forest, feed them fruit from a viewing platform under staff supervision, and assist with bathing elephants in a nearby river.
Funds raised here support efforts to reforest habitats for wild elephants, and the park also houses a menagerie of other rescued animals from Northern Thailand, including dogs, cats, and birds. Food for the elephants is purchased locally to support area farmers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This elephant rescue center is a must-see for animal lovers and families.
- Common areas of the elephant park offer free Wi-Fi access.
- A full-day park visit includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Chiang Mai city and lunch.
- All experiences at the elephant park are suitable for all fitness levels.
- The park has a restaurant serving both Thai and Western vegetarian dishes, buffet style.
- Be sure to book your experience in advance as they tend to sell out.
How to Get There
The Elephant Nature Park is located just under 40 miles (64 kilometers) north of Chiang Mai at 1 Ratmakka Road, Phra Sing. The journey takes about 90 minutes.
When to Get There
Full-day experiences at the park take place daily throughout the year, with hotel pickup early in the morning and drop-off during late afternoon. The best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is cool and relatively dry.
Longer Stays at the Park
While the single-day visit is the most popular option at the Elephant Nature Park, visitors can opt for longer stays as well, ranging from a short overnight visit to a full week of volunteering.
Address: 1 Ratmakka Road, Phra Sing, Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand 50200, Thailand
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks (Hin Yai/Hin Ta)
Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks - or Hin Yai/Hin Ta - are rocky outcrops on Lamai Beach. Often photographed and commented on, the rocks bear an uncanny resemblance to male and female genitalia.
The rocks are set on a lovely stretch of beach, and create tranquil rock pools when the tide is in.
Practical Info
Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks - or Hin Yai/Hin Ta - are a little south along the sands of Lamai Beach, on Koh Samui’s southern east coast.
From the road, follow the trail lined with souvenir stalls to the rocks.
Address: Highway 4169, Hat Lamai 84140, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 5
Coral Island
With crystal clear water and interminable stretches of fine white sand, Thailand’s Coral Island, or Koh Larn (Koh Lan), is paradise personified. About 4.5 miles (7 km) off the coast of Pattaya, Coral Island is a perfect day trip destination and a mecca for lovers of water sports, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
Popular Coral Island Activities & Things to Do
Coral Island caters to both island adventurers and those looking to relax. Take a glass-bottom boat ride to marvel at colorful fish, sea urchins, parrotfish, and sea sponges in the underwater world; kick things up a notch with a banana boat ride or parasailing experience; or simply sink your toes into the sand, enjoy a buffet lunch of freshly caught seafood, and work on getting the perfect sun tan.
How to Visit With Viator
Whether it’s to energize or exhilarate, Coral Island caters to the needs of every type of traveler. The majority of Coral Island tours depart from Pattaya Beach’s South Pier—the journey takes 15 minutes by speedboat. Tours typically include pickup from Pattaya hotels and a tour guide, as well as plenty of free time to explore Koh Larn’s six main golden beaches, all of which are flanked by seafood restaurants and offer opportunities for beach activities such as parasailing, water-skiing, and scuba diving in the green-blue waters. Opt for a private tour for the full experience.
Insider Tip
Before leaving Pattaya in favor of Coral Island’s blissful serenity, consider taking a city tour that stops by the Pattaya Floating Market, a visual feast of boats swelling with exotic produce, and the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, one of the city’s most popular attractions.
What Brings People to Coral Island
Travelers to Southeast Asia flock to these beautiful islands to escape the bustling crowds of mainland Thailand, recline on the white-sand beaches, and swim among a coral reef inhabited by diverse marine life. Although most tours are single-day options and beach bungalows on the island are more expensive than accommodations on the mainland, taking a Coral Island tour that includes an overnight stay allows you to take further advantage of the island’s idyllic beaches.
How to Get There
To get from Pattaya to Coral Island, you can only travel by boat. Therefore, you must first arrive in Pattaya city before heading out on a boat ride west to the island. Bangkok is about 90 miles (150 km) northwest of Pattaya Bay, and convenient transfer services are available from Bangkok hotels and the city’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. The journey to Pattaya takes approximately two hours by road.
Address: Highway 3, Pattaya, Gulf of Thailand 20260, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Dream World
There’s a reason Bangkok’s Dream World is known by locals as “the world of happiness.” Travelers will find a variety of entertaining live performances, traditional cuisine and dozens of thrill-seeking amusement park rides just beyond the amusement park’s gates.
Nowhere else can visitors to Thailand slide down frozen hillsides aboard speeding sleds, raft across the Grand Canyon or fly 20 meters into the air on the thundering waves of a Hurricane. And these adrenaline pumping attractions are just part of what makes Dream World worth the visit. Families can wander through the chilly streets of the enchanting Snow Town or splash around in the little kids Water Fun area. Whether it’s an adventurous afternoon or an all-day family affair Dream World has travelers covered.
Practical Info
Dream World is accessible via the Rangsit highway and Changwattana Expressway. Travelers can also catch public bus number 538 to Dream World from Victory Monument.
Address: 62 Moo1, Rangsit-Ongkarak road, Pathumthani, Thailand
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot)
Originating from a warm stream in the lowland forest of Khao Nor Juji, the Emerald Pool (or Sa Morakot) is a hot spring located within the Khao PraBang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary in Krabi.
The dazzling Emerald Pool is 115 long, 214 meters wide, and deep enough to swim in (although, due to the high levels of calcium carbonate, visitors should avoid swallowing any water while doing so). The color of the water varies according to the reflection of the sunlight at different times of the day. To experience the most intense emerald hue, visit at dawn or as early in the morning as possible.
There are three nature trails that lead to the Emerald Pool. The first is a direct 800 meter path from the main entrance. The second is via ‘Thung TieoSa Morakot’, which is around 1400 meters long and and more challenging, but is ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The third method is the longest at just under three kilometers, and is a scenic nature trail through the forest.
Practical Info
To reach the Emerald Pool from Krabi, take Highway No.4 to Khlong Thom and turn left on the road towards Thung Yai. Follow signposts to the Khao PraBang Khram Wildlife Park from here. It is also possible to take a motorcycle taxi from Klong Thom.
Address: Khao PraBang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary, Krabi, Thailand
Hours: 9am-5pm
Admission: 200 THB
From $ 35
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park protects a swathe of verdant forest and mountain ranges in Northern Thailand near Chiang Mai. Named after a hermit who lived in the forest before it became a national park, Doi Suthep Pui is perhaps most famous for the temple at the summit of Doi Suthep Peak, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Founded in 1383, the temple is one of the most sacred in the North and affords some of the most spectacular views in Chiang Mai. The temple is reached via 306 steps leading up to the peak, but the climb is worth it for the views and the stunning temple itself. Other cultural attractions of note within the park include Bhubing Palace, the winter residence of the Thai royal family, as well as San Ku, an ancient earth mound dating back to the thirteenth century.
While most visitors come to Doi Suthep Pui National Park to see the temple, it’s also a place of great natural beauty, where numerous nature trails wind through the forest and past several waterfalls. The park is home to some 300 bird species and another 2,000 species of flowering plants and ferns, making it a great destination for wildlife viewing.
Practical Info
The national park is located 10 miles (16 kilometers) northwest of Chiang Mai. Camping and small bungalows are available for overnight stays.
Address: Thailand
From $ 24
Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha)
Arching in front of the sacred Wat Suthat in Bangkok, what is left of the Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha) is a tall teak structure that once supported a giant seat used during Brahman festivals to honor the god Shiva. The landmark is often spotted on walking and biking tours through Bangkok.
During the festivities, participants would swing in arcs in an effort to reach a bag of gold suspended from a bamboo pole, an act that was believed to encourage a good harvest. A black-and-white photograph illustrating the ceremony can be found at Wat Suthat's ticket counter nearby.
Constructed toward the end of the 18th century by King Rama I, the swing was later damaged by lightning during the reign of Rama II. In 1920, it was renovated and moved to its current location in front of Wat Suthat. However, there were so many injuries and even accidental deaths that the ceremonies were discontinued for good by the end of the 1930s. In 2007, the Giant Swing was replaced with the current model, while the previous version was moved to the National Museum.
Practical Info
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing are located to the east of the Grand Palace on the route that leads to the Golden Mount (Wat Saket).
Address: Thanon Bamrung Muang, Bangkok, Thailand
From $ 23
Doi Inthanon
Rising 8,415 feet (2,565 meters) above sea level, Doi Inthanon, situated in the center of Doi Inthanon National Park, is Thailand’s tallest mountain. While many visitors strive to see the views from its summit, the surrounding forests, waterfalls, stupas—dome-shaped Buddhist shrines—and trails are just as impressive.
The Basics
Doi Inthanon is one of the most popular day trips from Chiang Mai (the mountain is named for the city’s last king, in fact), and you’ll find plenty of tour options. Active travelers can trek through paddy fields to plummeting waterfalls, cruise down the peak on a mountain bike, or navigate the rapids of Mae Wang Valley, which sprawls out at the foot of the mountain. A guided small-group or private tour of the park often includes a trek to the summit of Doi Inthanon, plus visits to a hill tribe village, a Hmong market, and the twin King and Queen pagodas; you’ll also learn about the region’s ecosystem by exploring the Kew Mae Pan or Ang Ka nature trails.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Doi Inthanon is a must-see for adventure travelers and nature lovers.
- Dress in layers; daytime temperatures in the park can be surprisingly cool.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
- Most day tours from Chiang Mai include roundtrip transportation and lunch.
- Expect a full-day tour to last upwards of eight hours.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Doi Inthanon is by joining an English-speaking guided tour of the park or hiring a private taxi for the day. Convenient public transportation to the park is lacking.
When to Get There
For the best chance of clear views from the summit, plan your visit for the dry season (between May and October). During the rest of the year, Doi Inthanon is blanketed in perpetual fog and sees almost daily rainfall.
The Mae Kha Ning Phenomenon
If you visit Doi Inthanon over New Year’s, you’ll likely be joined by locals coming to witness a phenomena known as Mae Kha Ning, or frost—a rare sight in a climate as warm as Thailand’s.
Address: Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai, Thailand
From $ 31
Golden Triangle
The mountainous border regions of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand come together in the exotically named Golden Triangle—a haven of Buddhist architecture, lush forest, and colorful riverfront villages. Located in the Chiang Rai province at Thailand’s northernmost tip, the Golden Triangle is thick with wonders, both natural and man-made.
The Basics
Originally launched into notoriety by the opium trade, this sleepy part of Southeast Asia is now a popular jungle escape and jumping-off point for visits to hill tribe villages populated by the White Hmong, Akha, Karen, and Lahu people. Most regional tours start in Chiang Rai, although some also make the trip from Chiang Mai. On a full-day tour, discover cultural delights of Northern Thailand such as the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the impressive Hall of Opium museum, and Chiang Saen’s ancient Buddhist ruins. You can also visit farther-flung rural villages, ride in a tuk-tuk, peruse local markets, and cruise the Ruak and Mekong rivers. Some longer tour options cross into Myanmar at the border town of Mae Sai, while other excursions venture into Laos via the Fourth Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- On tours that cross into Laos or Myanmar, it’s helpful to carry a small amount of US currency in addition to Thai baht.
- A valid passport is required for border crossings into Laos and Myanmar.
- Thailand’s northern region is more conservative than Bangkok, the islands, and the beaches down south. Cover your shoulders and avoid wearing swimming attire at religious sites.
How to Get There
The Golden Triangle’s official center is the town of Sop Ruak, located at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong rivers. The capital city of Chiang Rai (the departure point of most Golden Triangle tours) lies roughly 113 miles (182 kilometers) north of Chiang Mai, a 3-hour journey by road. Multiple buses travel between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai daily, though most visitors travel by car or guided tour.
When to Get There
Winter is the most popular time to visit, when the days are usually dry and warm. Monsoon season lasts from late April through October, bringing rain and humid weather.
Things to Know When Visiting Hill Tribe Villages
Each traditional hill tribe community has its own style of dress, language, and cultural customs. Many villages retain their roots but also open up their way of life to curious visitors. Visitors should be respectful, always ask before taking photographs, and consider purchasing locally made handicrafts that support the village communities.
Address: Highway 1290, Sop Ruak 57000, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 39
Democracy Monument
This politically significant monument located in the heart of Bangkok commemorates the nation’s transition to a constitutional monarchy. Some 75 cannonballs surround the base of the statue, which measures exactly 24 meters tall—a number that is particularly significant, since the new constitution was signed on June 24. And while relief work along the bottom or the monument depicts military, citizens and law enforcement responsible for birthing the current state, locals say the Democracy Monument continues to be a gathering place for demonstrations and for calls to action in times of political unrest or during threat of dictatorship.
Practical Info
The Democracy Monument is located on the boulevard known as Th Ratchadamnoen Klang.
Address: Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, Bangkok, Thailand
From $ 69
Flow House Bangkok
The Flow House urban beach club concept involves packaging a slice of California surfer culture and serving it up to travelers as a one-stop destination for dining, shopping and, of course, surfing. Flow House opened its Bangkok location in 2012, with a FlowRider at its heart. The FlowRider projects a thin sheet of water over a hill-shaped surface to mimic the shape of a perfect ocean wave, allowing surfers to practice without having to rely on Mother Nature.
At Flow House Bangkok, Flowboarding is the sport of choice — an amalgamation of skateboarding, surfing, bodyboarding and snowboarding. Experienced boarders can practice new maneuvers while kids and newbies can learn a new skill. No matter your level, Flow House staff are always on standby to help out. Travelers can participate through session riding, lessons, competitions and special events, even the cautious traveler can enjoy the action while eating, drinking and hanging out.
Besides the FlowRider, Flow House Bangkok facilities include a kid’s pool, viewing deck, sun loungers, surf shop and Flow Bar, where you can purchase snacks, beers, cocktails and sodas.
Practical Info
Flow House Bangkok is located in A-Square near the intersection of Sukhumvhit and Rama 4.
Address: 120/1 Sukhumvit 26, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Open Mon - Fri: 10 am to midnight, Sat - Sun: 8 am to midnight
Admission: 750 baht per hour
From $ 19
Hat Yai Magic Eye 3D Museum
The aptly named Magic Eye 3D Museum in Hat Yai isn’t your ordinary museum. You won’t find ancient relics or old paintings, nor are there placards detailing history or significance. Instead, the halls of this whimsical attraction are painted floor to ceiling with more than 100 scenes and murals that give the illusion of three dimensions, especially when captured through the lens of a camera.
It’s not so much a place to admire artwork; visitors are meant to step inside and become part of the paintings. Camera-toting visitors can strike a pose ascending a stairway to heaven amid clouds and hot air balloons, hanging precariously from a cliff face, meditating within an hour glass or riding a magic carpet through the deserts of Egypt.
While the Magic Eye 3D Museum is best experienced with friends, friendly staff members are around to help set up and snap the perfect picture. Sample photographs and foot signs guide visitors to the best posing positions.
Practical Info
Bring a pair of socks to wear in the museum, as you’ll have to remove your shoes before entering.
Address: 1408 Kanjanavanich Rd, Hat Yai, Songkhla, Thailand
Hours: Daily 9am to 9pm
Admission: 400 baht
From $ 13
Hall of Opium Museum
Set at the intersection of Thailand, Laos and Burma (Myanmar) known as the “Golden Triangle,” the Hall of Opium Museum seeks to inform its visitors about the history and effects of the opium seed.
The Golden Triangle area is historically well-known for its role in the growth and distribution of opium. Tracing from its first use over 5,000 years ago to current abuse and addiction issues, learn about the opium trade’s past and present both in this area and worldwide. There are several educational multimedia exhibitions throughout, including ones on the process of production and the dangers of consumption. Walk through a dark tunnel to a flowerbed of poppies, the plant from which opium is derived, to enter.
Practical Info
The Hall of Opium is located about four miles from the town of Chiang Saen in the Golden Triangle Park, opposite the Anatara Hotel. It is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. but is closed on Mondays. Admission costs 200 Thai Baht.
Address: Moo 1 Ban Sop Ruak, Chiang Saen 57150, Thailand
Hours: Tues-Sun 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: 200 Thai Baht
From $ 68
Dusit Palace
Visiting Dusit Palace (Phra Ratcha Wang Dusit) is a very different experience from visiting the nearby Grand Palace. Built by King Rama V in 1903, it was meant to be a direct contrast to the traditional yet cramped Grand Palace. As the first Thai king to visit Europe, Rama modeled his palace after the spacious leafy royal residences he observed there, which comes through in the western architecture and layout.
Over 100 years later the complex is still the seat of power today, and there are many residences, organizations and political buildings spread around the grounds. The main highlight for visitors is the Vimanmek Mansion: King Rama V's former home and the largest teakwood residence in the world. There are also over a dozen museums on the grounds including several photography museums, a pottery-salvaged-from-shipwrecks museum and an ancient clock museum.
Over 100 years later the complex is still the seat of power today, and there are many residences, organizations and political buildings spread around the grounds. The main highlight for visitors is the Vimanmek Mansion: King Rama V's former home and the largest teakwood residence in the world. There are also over a dozen museums on the grounds including several photography museums, a pottery-salvaged-from-shipwrecks museum and an ancient clock museum.
Address: Vajira Hospital 295 Ratchasima Rd, Dusit, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
Admission: About 100 THB
From $ 69
Grand Palace
Bangkok’s glittering Grand Palace is one of the most popular attractions in the Thai capital. Built in 1782, this sprawling 54-acre (21.8-hectare) complex served as the royal court and administrative seat of Thailand for 150 years. Today, while it continues to host royal Thai functions, the palace also impresses swathes of visitors with its intricate golden-spired architecture and cultural history.
The Basics
The complex grounds, right off the Chao Phraya River, feature several visitable buildings and courtyards. Popular sites within the palace walls are the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew); Phra Maha Monthian, where ceremonies of the court still take place; the throne room in Dusit Hall (only two of three throne halls are open to the public); a museum covering the palace’s history; and the buildings of the former royal residences. Though the palace is no longer used as a royal residence, the inner court remains closed to the public. In-depth day tours with private guides explain the art, traditions, and architecture of the Grand Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A strict dress code applies for entry: long pants or skirts, shirts with sleeves (no bare shoulders), and socks—even with sandals. If you come unprepared, a booth near the entrance may offer extra cover-ups with a deposit.
- Most half-day Bangkok tours couple a visit to the Grand Palace with other top activities like canal cruises or stops at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), or Wat Arun.
- The grounds feature a cafe and three restrooms.
When to Get There
The Grand Palace is open daily from 8:30am to 3:30pm. The temples can get crowded and, with the requisite dress code, can also get quite hot. To beat the heat and the crowds, visit in the early morning on weekdays during the peak tourist (but cooler, drier) months of November to February, or in the rainy season (July through October).
How to Get There
The Grand Palace is sandwiched between the Chao Phraya River, Sanam Luang Park, and Wat Pho in the government district of downtown Bangkok. To get there, take the Chao Phraya Express to the Tha Chang Pier. Alternatively, take a taxi or tuk tuk from the city center—although Bangkok’s notoriously heavy traffic is very likely to slow you down.
Making the Most of Your Grand Palace Visit
There are many sites to see within the Grand Palace. If you arrive early, head straight to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, to the left of the entrance, before crowds form. If you visit later in the day, head to the right past the ticket booth to see the palace and formal halls before circling back around by Buddha Ratana Starn Hall and Sidhala Phirom Hall, behind the Emerald Buddha complex. Take your time exploring the chedi (Thai Buddhist stupa-like monument) and naga (multiheaded snakes) along the temple’s exterior.
Address: Na Phra Lan Road, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Daily 8:30am–3:30pm
Admission: 500 THB
From $ 8
Erawan National Park
Located in the Kanchanaburi Province, the Erawan National Park it is one of the most famous in Thailand. Famed for its impressive seven-tiered waterfall, the park is a popular weekend spot for international visitors, as well as locals from Bangkok and nearby Kanchanaburi.
Just over 80% of the Erawan National Park is covered in verdant rainforest, with winding nature trails allowing visitors to marvel at the giant trees and spot the diverse wildlife that call the park home. Deep in the forest, tigers, wild elephants, cobras, and gibbons all live here, while avid bird-watchers should look out for hornbills, woodpeckers, and parakeets.
The major attraction at the Erawan National Park, however, is Erawan Falls. Named after the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology, these falls have seven levels cascading down over 1,500 meters and are widely regarded as among the more beautiful falls in Thailand. Walking to most levels of the waterfall is relatively easy to do, although to get to the very top is quite the hike, and some good walking shoes and a healthy dose of determination are both recommended!
Practical Info
Trains and buses depart from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi daily. Buses from Kanchanaburi stop by the entrance of the Erawan Falls every 90 minutes from 8am until 5:20pm each day. The last bus back to Kanchanaburi is at 4pm. Within the park, bicycles can be hired from 20 Baht per day.
Address: Mu 4, Tha Kradan Sub-district, Amphur Si Sawat, Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Hours: Daily
From $ 113
Doi Mae Salong
Doi Mae Salong is a mountain in northern Thailand with an elevation reaching 1,800 meters. The stunning scenery and cooler temperatures make it a popular retreat for Thais and tourists alike with activities such as mountain trekking, visiting hill-tribe villages, and touring tea plantations.
Nestled near the mountain is the village of Mae Salong (officially known as Santikhiri, meaning "hill of peace") which offers accommodations to suit all budgets. The village was originally settled by anti-communist exiles from China who were granted asylum by Thailand. The Chinese influence can still be sensed in the town's language and food.
Doi Mae Salong is located about 70 kilometers northeast of Chiang Rai near the border with Myanmar. The winding mountain roads are known to make travelers feel queasy, so have some motion sickness pills on hand if you're prone.
The temperature in the mountains around Mae Salong is noticeably cooler than the rest of Thailand – especially during the winter months from December to February – so pack a sweater and long pants.
Address: Chiang Rai, Thailand
From $ 57