Phuket, Pattaya, Samui - these resorts are known to almost every tourist. However, interesting places in Thailand are not limited to beaches. Ancient palaces, picturesque nature and unique temples - it is worth only to move away from the coast, as another, amazing Asia opens up in front of you. We have collected a list of amazing sights of Thailand, which are definitely worth seeing.
By the way, if you decide to go to Thailand, remember that you need a visa. Tourists from some countries can get a stamp right at the airport. Belarusians need to apply for a visa in advance. Information on how to do this is collected here. here. And by the way, Thailand is among top 10 cities for New Year's Eve celebrations.
The historic city of Ayuthaya
The parade of interesting places opens the Historic City of Ayutthaya. This is a whole complex of ancient buildings that occupies a part of the modern Ayutthaya city. It is here that you can feel the rich past of this country and see with your own eyes how Asian rulers lived centuries ago.
The ruins of ancient temples, remnants of palaces, Buddhist statues and farm buildings are spread over several square kilometers. This place was founded in 1350 by King Ramathibodi I. He also turned it into the capital of Ayutthaya kingdom. In the golden times, Ayutthaya had 3 royal palaces, 375 temples, 29 forts and 94 city gates, and the number of inhabitants reached a million. Now it is practically just ruins.
The most famous building in Ayuthaya is Wangluang (Grand Palace). The king stayed there with his wife and children 4 centuries ago, so the area around it is arranged in the best way: picturesque gardens, alleys, ponds. The temples of Wat Ratchaburana and Wat Na Phra Meru deserve attention. They are impressive not only for their size, but also for their luxurious interior and sculptures created by craftsmen of that time.
Grand Palace
The original name of the Grand Palace in Bangkok is almost impossible for a tourist to pronounce - Phrabarommaharadchawang. But despite this, the unique complex of buildings cannot be overlooked. It is another royal residence, originally inspired by the palace in Ayuthaya.
Construction began in 1782, the territory was constantly expanding, new buildings and structures appeared. Some of the buildings are now government offices, while others are still used by the royal family. Special ceremonies are held here every year: weddings, funerals and receptions. This explains the strict dress code for visitors: tourists are not allowed in shorts and short skirts.
If you want to see unique decorative elements and architectural marvels, go to Dusit Palace. The snow-white façade, the Thai island roof, the wooden throne adorned with mother-of-pearl are all breathtaking.
The official halls, the queen's private rooms and the urns with the ashes of the rulers can be found in the Chakri Throne Palace. Pay attention to the Sivalai Gardens, where the personal temple of King Rama IV is hidden. It is decorated with light mosaics and gray marble.
Wang Pho - Temple of the Lying Buddha
It is Bangkok's largest and oldest temple, famous for the huge statue of a reclining Buddha. It was built in the 12th century, and in 1782 General Chakri proclaimed himself King Rama I here.
The statue is 46 meters long and 15 meters high. There are 108 mother-of-pearl ornaments on the feet, reflecting the personality of the deity. Don't forget to make a wish while walking around it and throw coins into all the vessels - only in this way will your cherished dream come true.
In addition to the main building, 95 stupas and several hundred Buddha statues were built on the territory of Wan Pho. Monks live in one part of the temple and a school of Thai massage is located here. It is believed that this very place was its birthplace.
San Kampaeng Hot Springs
And this place is very popular not only among tourists, but also among locals.
Chiang Mai San Kampaeng Hot Springs is located just 36 kilometers from the northern Thai capital and has been open for almost 40 years. The territory of the park occupies 16 hectares. It accommodates geysers and a river with gray-hydrogen mineral water, a spa pool, Thai massage parlors, lodges, restaurants and places for camping and picnicking.
You can take a dip in this healing water with a temperature of about 100°C in a common pool or baths (they are separate for men and women). Everything is perfectly landscaped, there are many local species of flowers and trees. And from exotic entertainment tourists can go rafting or elephant riding.
White Temple
This is the most amazing Buddhist building in Thailand. Its appearance will amaze anyone. The famous Thai artist Chalermchayu Kositpipat started the construction back in 1997, but has yet to finish it. This temple is an example of the architect's unlimited imagination. The author combines Thai architectural traditions, Buddhist symbolism and modern art.
The walls of the temple are made of sculptural concrete painted with white paint and decorated with a mosaic of mirrors. A bridge leads to the main entrance, from under which the hands of sinners reach out - the whole road symbolizes the path from life to eternity. In addition, in the garden around the temple you can find many more amazing sculptures.
The fantastic wall painting is also amazing. It was made by the artist himself. The frescoes show the confrontation of good and evil in different plots, executed in a unique author's manner. If you look carefully, you can find not only Buddha and demons, but also movie characters and the image of the destruction of the twin towers.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand, its summit is at 2,565 meters. It is located on a huge (more than 400 square kilometers) territory of Doi Inthanon National Park. You will need a few days to explore all the picturesque places, but it is better to travel by rented car.
Tropical forests full of birds and animals, mysterious paths and ancient bridges over water bodies, as well as amazing mountain air with the scents of flowers create a unique atmosphere. Practically pristine nature neighbors with good infrastructure for guests - lodges, stores, cafes, signposts and resting places are everywhere.
The main goal, of course, is to climb to the top of Doi Inthanon. And it's not only the dizzying views, but also the two stupas erected on the highest points. They stand opposite each other, creating an amazing architectural ensemble.
In another secluded corner of the park is also the highest waterfall in Thailand - its height is about 280 meters. Stony rapids cut the water flow into dozens of jets, which picturesquely circle the rocks and plants on their way.
Great Buddha
A huge golden statue of Buddha - what could be simpler yet impressive? Nothing! So make sure you go to Ang Thong Province.
It is the largest Buddha in Thailand, the second tallest statue in Southeast Asia and the ninth tallest in the world. It is 92 meters high and 63 meters wide. The construction of this colossus lasted 18 years. The construction is quite simple - a figure made of reinforced concrete covered with gilding, but due to its size it impresses anyone.
The Great Buddha of Thailand is installed on the grounds of Wat Muang Monastery and Temple. Apart from him, many other sculptures and temples have been installed here. Gold, mirrors, stucco - a variety of architectural styles and variants of decoration adorn each building. The most original statues are installed at the foot of the Buddha. In Hell Park there are figures depicting the stay of sinners in Hell. The lotus ponds, on the contrary, will help you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of peace and tranquility.
Temple of Truth
One more shrine on our list and it is also special. The construction of the Temple of Truth began in 1981, and it was planned to be completed in 2025. The peculiarity of the construction, which is about 105 meters high, is the absence of nails. Externally, it stands out among the pleiades of luxurious golden temples, because it is completely made of wood. It is decorated with carved ornaments and figures from the subjects of Indian and Thai mythology. Every meter of this amazing building is filled with oriental philosophy and reflects the rich cultural heritage of Thailand.
Wat Prathat Doi Suthep Monastery
This monastery is a sacred place for many Thais, but tourists will also find it interesting. It is located on Doi Suthep Mountain at an altitude of 1,073 meters. It is located on Doi Suthep Mountain at an altitude of 1,073 meters.
The exact history of the construction of the temple is unknown. It is assumed that it appeared in the 14th century, but the road to it was laid only in 1935. According to one theory, the place for the monastery was chosen in an unusual way - the sacred Buddhist relics were unloaded on a white elephant and set off, stopping where he began to trumpet and walk in circles. To commemorate this, a statue of the animal was erected here.
There are also golden Buddhas and other numerous statues of iconic figures on the monastery grounds. Visitors can light incense, bring offerings to the monks and ring the sacred bell. Locals, on the other hand, come here for another important reason. It is believed that if you climb to the top of the mountain, you can get rid of sins. But you have to walk up the 309 steps.
Useful information:
Thailand offers many interesting places to relax and explore. We tell you what to visit in Thailand:
The best places in Thailand for a vacation:
- Phuket is known for its beaches, nightlife and resorts.
- Ko Samui is a popular island with great beaches and resorts, perfect for a vacation.
- Krabi is a city with breathtaking views, beautiful beaches and outdoor activities such as rock climbing.
Thailand's most beautiful places:
- Ao Nang is a picturesque beach surrounded by rock formations.
- Ha Long Bay is a Vietnamese place, but it is often visited by visitors to Thailand. The great beauty of the karst cliffs is inspiring.
- Alang Ngum (sometimes spelled Ao Nang) is a beautiful coastal south with crystal clear waters.
Thailand's Best Natural Attractions:
- Khao Sok National Park - rainforests, lakes, caves and a diversity of flora and fauna.
- Erawan National Park - famous waterfalls with bright turquoise lakes.
- The Simillan Islands - known for their stunning snorkeling and diving spots.
Non-Tourist Places in Thailand:
- Koh Lanta islands are less crowded with tourists, with beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Chiang Mai Province - ancient temples and local markets, and the opportunity to experience the culture of the local tribes.
- The small villages around Chiang Rai are an opportunity to learn about the lives of the locals and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The most unusual places in Thailand:
- Tiger Temple (Wat Tham Sua) is a hilltop temple with stunning views.
- Elephant Village in Chiang Mai is a unique experience with these majestic animals.
- The Eyelash Museum is a small but interesting museum dedicated to eyelashes with unusual exhibits.
