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10 Must See Places in Thailand
By siliconindia
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Saturday, 03 September 2011, 00:26 IST
Bangalore: Be it the fertile rice fields of the central plains, white sandy beaches or the warm hospitality of its citizenry, Kingdom of Thailand and formerly known as Siam, located at the center of Southeast Asia, gives a certain luster to its visitors.
The best season is from November to February. This is the best season to visit with its low humidity, relatively low temperatures and clear skies. The northeast is a region better suited for home stays and teaching gigs than quick souvenir snapshots: here, you can dive deep into the famous Thai spots and the special features.
Hin Daeng
If you are looking for Scuba diving, Hin Daeng is one of the top diving sites in Thailand with whale sharks and manta rays. Hin Daeng features large underwater pinnacles, carpets of anemone and colorful coral. Into the blue you can see the mantas performing their loop-the-loops. This is one of the favorite dive sites for many local dive pros. With exceptionally colorful soft corals, vast schools of trevallies, as well as barracuda, reef sharks and countless species of reef fish, Hin Daeng provide an excellent option for shorter live aboard trips
Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son is one of the Northern provinces of Thailand, nestled in a deep valley of the Shan Hills; Mae Hong Son has long been isolated from the outside world. It is the most mountainous province in Thailand; the terrain is highly suitable for the training of elephants. Tourists are highly attracted by the spectacular scenery, numerous hill tribe communities and soft adventure. The natives have their own lilting dialect, architectural lifestyles, customs and traditions, and delicious cuisine. The nick name "the City of Three Mists? aroused from its dewy mist in the winter, forest fire mist in the summer and rainy mist in the rainy season.
Bangkok
Bangkok, the City of Angels or "Krungthep?, is the capital, largest urban area and primary city of Thailand. This capital city got some incredible sites which attracts tourists year long. From temples, the Grand Palace, Asia?s largest shopping centers and the largest outdoor market of Asia (Chatuchak), Bangkok definitely has what it takes to entertain visitors from all origins. Some of the places that you should not miss in Bangkok are Wat Arun, Wat Po, Khao San, Chinatown?s Alleyways, Bazaars and Pat pong Night Market. Bangkok has recently seen a huge development of city Spas and Wellness centers, in addition to the long established Thai massage centers.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand. Surrounded by mountains and lush countryside, it is much greener and quieter than Bangkok. It is a must visit on the travelers trail if you don?t want to miss the best of Thailand. This city offers numerous stunning temples, waterfalls and national parks, ancient ruins, fascinating markets and animal parks for family fun. Since the location is high in the north mountainous region of Thailand, it is famous for the popular mountain treks and organized treks.
Ko Samet
This famous island, 200km south-east of Bangkok and around 6 km off the coast of Rayong province on the east side of Thailand, is popular with both vacationers and backpackers. The islands is known for its white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters and laid back attitudes. This isolated location is perfect for those looking for peace and world-class snorkeling and diving. In the 1970's Ko Samet was 'discovered' by Thai teenagers and young couples looking a weekend retreat from the hectic pace of Bangkok. Ko Samet now increasingly attracts Bangkokian residents and tourists. You have to bring your own tents if you are looking for camping!
Ayutthaya
This old capitol of Thailand is just 80 kilometers north of Bangkok; hardly one hour journey from Bangkok. Ayutthaya. The towering temples are now classed as an UNESCO world heritage site and a must see place. The city became Thailand's capitol in the mid-14th century and remained the capitol until the late 18th century. You can spend a leisurely day here, or a quick stop, all with relatively low pressure compared to many other tourist sites
Railay
This little village of fishermen on the mainland is surrounded by the warm Andaman Sea, lush jungle, and twisted rock. The beach is accessible only by boat which attracts backpackers, well-heeled tourists and enthusiastic rock climbers. This hilly vegetated and secluded area is also perfect for trekking. You can get there from Ao Nang or Ao Nam Mao. From this area it?s also easy to take a trip to nearby Phang Nga to see the iconic ?James Bond Rock?. International Rock Climbing arranged every year during end of Apr.
Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is considered as the most expensive region compared to the rest of Thailand.. It is the ultimate island paradise for many tourists. Located between the city of Krabi and Ao Nang, the island is accessible only by boat due to the high limestone cliffs cutting. Island highlights include climbing a steep viewpoint to watch the sunset and hiring a long tail boat to snorkel the beautiful surrounding waters. The island is now fully recovered from the 2009 tsunami and also has suffered from rapid tourist growth especially since the release of the ?The Beach? (starring Leo Dicaprio).
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
Located just 23 km from San Kamphaeng district and about 36 km from Chiang Mai City, The San Kamphaeng Hot Springs situated amid natural surroundings of shady trees and fertile hills. It is set in a wooded area surrounded by mountains. The village of San Kamphaeng passes by a large number of handicraft shops and the famous umbrella village of Bo Sang. Thai massage and foot massage is also available on the site. Thus The San Kamphaeng Hot Spring is an ideal destination for health and physical well being
The Floating Market
The Floating Market was built in 1866 on demand of His Majesty the King of Thailand to help ease communication in the province. The Floating Market today thrive tourists from all over the world. The boats are still piled high with tropical fruit and vegetables, fresh, ready-to-drink coconut juice and local food cooked from floating kitchens located right on the boat. The region also has plenty of vineyards, orchards and thriving local businesses which are great to view by canal boat on route to the market.