Top 10 Hidden Gems in Thailand Beyond Bangkok

 

Thailand is the place of lush culture, golden temples, white beach and crowded cities, Bangkok is usually the first destination of most of the tourists. Nevertheless, the country has a lot more than the glamorous capital. Whether it is the most tranquil villages, smaller and unknown islands, and off the beaten track parks, Thailand has a lot to offer to the adventurous wanderers. They are destinations that, to a traveler eager to get off the beaten track, offer a lifetime experience and an in-depth exploration of Thailand: its heritage, its culture, and its landscape.

It is also important to learn how to meet the Thailand visa requirement and get the required paperwork before you make up your mind to visit the country. Traveling in Thailand with pleasure or a cultural exploration, you can apply in advance in order to have a trouble-free visit and discover the undiscovered secret of Thailand.

1. Pai – The Peaceful Mountain Town

Pai is a small town located in the mountains in Northern Thailand that provides the nice and relaxed lifestyle and beautiful nature. Nestled amidst beautiful valleys, hot springs, waterfalls and hiking paths, Pai is a popular destination with backpackers, as well as nature enthusiasts. Pai is less crowded as compared to those of Chiang Mai. You will be able to do such things as a visit to the Pai Canyon, a bath at the Tha Pai Hot Springs or a visit to the Bamboo Bridge across the rice fields.

2. Sangkhlaburi – A Cultural Crossroads

Sangkhlaburi is a town in western Thailand, which borders Myanmar, and is very scenic and culturally diverse. This is where the Mon, Karen, Thai and Burmese people live together, making a special mix of cultures, architecture and food. One of the must-see landmarks is the iconic Mon Bridge which is the longest wooden bridge in Thailand. Tourists are available to get boat rides on Vajiralongkorn Lake or hike in nearby forests. The remote beauty and the multicultural nature of Sangkhlaburi are more off the beaten path experience.

3. Phu Chi Fa – A Sea of Clouds

Phu Chi Fa is a secret treasure of Chiang Rai province, which is the most popular place to be with the sunrise panorama look above the clouds sea. This mountain summit is located on the Laos border and is the hikers and photographers paradise. In the cool season (November to February) the misty scene is magical. Hill people like the Hmong also exist in the region, and there is an opportunity to be exposed to local culture. Phu Chi Fa is a relatively undeveloped touristic destination with lots of natural beauty.

4. Koh Kood – The Underrated Island Escape

Although such islands as Phuket and Koh Phi Phi draw most of the crowds, Koh Kood (or Ko Kut) remains one of the best-kept secrets of Thailand in terms of islands. This island is close to the Cambodian border with clear waters, untouched beaches and thick jungle land. It is ideal to people who want to find peace and tranquility on the road. Koh Kood is not overdeveloped with resorts and other commercial properties.

5. Loei – Thailand’s Hidden Mountain Province

The province of Loei in the northeast (Isan) part of Thailand is one of the most underestimated regions of Thailand. It presents a new scenery of freshness with its cool atmosphere, foggy mountains and local festivities such as the renowned Phi Ta Khon (Ghost Festival). The Phu Kradueng National Park is a major attraction in this area, where hikers enjoy the cliffs, the waterfalls, and the views. Loei is perfect as a destination of eco-tourism and cultural immersion that are not accompanied by large flows of tourists.

6. Nakhon Si Thammarat – For Temple Lovers

It is a southern Thai city which is rich in history and spirituality, as well as some of the oldest temples in Thailand. Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan is a holy place which is an attraction to pilgrims as well as history lovers and is a UNESCO world heritage candidate. It is also a pathway to virgin beaches and islands which are very near Nakhon Si Thammarat. It is a rich hidden gem to explore because of its religious value and natural beauty.

7. Mae Hong Son – The Misty Northern Beauty

Mae Hong Son, hidden at the end of a secluded valley, close to the border of Myanmar, is a dream of those travelers, who want to be at the edge of the world and enjoy its silence. Mae Hong Son, alongside being shadowed by Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, has beautiful mountains, tribal settlements, and serene lakes. See Su Tong Pae Bridge which is one of the longest bamboo bridges in Thailand or visit Pang Ung a beautiful lake that many people call Thailand Switzerland. The area is secluded, which enhances its mysticism.

8. Koh Yao Noi – The Untouched Island Near Phuket

Koh Yao Noi is a short boat-ride away from Phuket and a peaceful respite to the madness of mass tourism. This island has peaceful beaches, local fishing villages, and scenic rice paddies and it is a favorite destination among those travelers who seek authenticity and repose. It is possible to ride a bike around the island, kayak into mangroves, or participate in Thai cooking classes with the locals. Koh Yao Noi is a place of perfect mixture of the adventure and culture exploration.

9. Phetchabun – Nature’s Untouched Playground

The other underrated destination is Phetchabun, which is characterized by mountain peaks, forests and waterfalls. It is particularly made popular by the Thai locals as a weekend getaway. The tallest mountain in the province, Phu Thap Boek is an excellent location to observe panoramic sceneries and cabbage cultivation terrains. Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, a beautiful temple covered with millions of mosaic tiles is also located in Phetchabun. This province is a gem to find out, its spiritual and natural beauty is unmatched.

10. Trat – The Gateway to Island Adventures

Trat is an attractive town often used as a stop-off on the way to Koh Chang and the other islands and it can use some extra visitors. It has colonial architecture, tranquil environment and night markets which give you a glimpse of the traditional Thai life. There are beaches and mangrove forests close to Trat, which is ideal in eco-tourism. It is a wonderful resort to rest after or before your adventures in the island-hopping.

Conclusion

Thailand has other wonders besides the capital city. Mountainous villages such as Pai and Phu Chi Fa or peaceful islands such as Koh Kood and Koh Yao Noi are these hidden treasures which give a more authentic Thai experience. Every destination is a story, a cultural richness, a beauty of nature, and you have a chance to make your trip unforgettable. These underrated destinations are perfect for tourists who are interested in avoiding the tourist hustle and bustle in Thailand and feel the heart of this country.

It is also important before you pack your bags to ensure that you know the requirements of the Thailand visa to eliminate last-minute surprises. To have a smooth entry into the country, it is advisable to apply to your Thailand visit visa early enough. After all is prepared, then, prepare to experience a Thailand you have never seen before; a Thailand that is full of charm, warmth and memorable discoveries.