15 Things to Do in Thailand: Must-Visit Places & Top Attractions

Thailand, known as the “Land of Smiles,” is a tropical paradise where rich culture, golden temples, and pristine beaches come together in perfect harmony. From the bustling streets of Bangkok and historic ruins of Ayutthaya to the tranquil mountains of Chiang Mai and the turquoise waters of Phuket, the country offers experiences for every traveler. 

This article covers the top 15 things to do in Thailand, including temples, islands, markets, and must-visit attractions.

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1. Explore The Grand Palace, Bangkok

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The Grand Palace in Bangkok is Thailand’s most revered architectural complex and former royal residence, constructed in 1782. Its ornate temples, golden spires, and detailed murals reflect classical Thai craftsmanship and religious symbolism. Within its grounds lies Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha, a deeply venerated statue carved from a single jade block. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.7/5
• Location: Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
• Timings: 8:30 AM–3:30 PM daily
• Price: ~500 THB (~₹1,200 INR)

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2. Visit Wat Phra Chetuphon (Reclining Buddha)

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Wat Phra Chetuphon, also known as Wat Pho, houses the iconic Reclining Buddha statue measuring over 150 feet long, covered in gold leaf and symbolizing the Buddha’s passing into nirvana. Beyond the statue, the temple complex is one of the oldest in Bangkok and serves as a leading center for traditional Thai massage education. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.6/5
• Location: Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM daily
• Price: ~200 THB (~₹480 INR)

3. Wander Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest open-air markets in the world, spanning more than 27 sections and over 15,000 stalls selling everything from fashion and art to antiques and Thai street food. Popular with locals and tourists alike, this bustling market offers a full day of shopping and cultural immersion in Bangkok. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.5/5
• Location: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok
• Timings: Sat–Sun 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Price: Free entry

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4. Cruise the Chao Phraya River Dinner

A dinner cruise along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River offers a captivating way to view illuminated landmarks such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Rama VIII Bridge while dining on Thai and international cuisine. Cruises often include live music and traditional performances, combining sightseeing with cultural entertainment. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.4/5
• Location: Charoen Krung, Bangkok
• Timings: Typically 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Price: Varies by operator (starts ~1000 THB / ~₹2,400 INR)

5. Explore Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

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Damnoen Saduak is Thailand’s most famous floating market, where vendors sell fruit, snacks, and souvenirs from traditional wooden boats along a network of canals. A visit here offers a glimpse of rural Thai life and lively bargaining culture, often combined with long-tail boat rides through the waterways.

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.3/5
• Location: Damnoen Saduak, Ratchaburi Province
• Timings: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Price: Free to enter; boat rides extra

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6. Relax at Phuket’s White Sand Beaches

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Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Popular beaches like Patong, Kata, and Karon offer swimming, snorkeling, and water sports, while quieter coves are ideal for relaxation. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.6/5
• Location: Phuket Island, Southern Thailand
• Timings: Beaches open 24 hours
• Price: Free (activities extra)

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7. Island Hop the Phi Phi Islands

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The Phi Phi Islands are an iconic group of limestone islands in the Andaman Sea known for postcard-perfect turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant marine life. Popular tours include boat trips from Phuket or Krabi, snorkeling stops, and visits to Maya Bay, made famous by The Beach (note seasonal closures for conservation). 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.7/5
• Location: Andaman Sea (Phuket/Krabi access)
• Timings: Tours typically run from morning to afternoon
• Price: Trip cost varies by tour

8. Discover Ayutthaya Historical Park

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Ayutthaya Historical Park preserves the ruins of the ancient Siamese capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring temple complexes, Buddha statues, and royal palaces that date back to the 14th century. Cycling or tuk-tuk tours around the park let visitors explore sites like Wat Mahathat and Wat Chaiwatthanaram at leisure. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.5/5
• Location: Ayutthaya Province, Central Thailand
• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Price: Park entry fees apply

9. Explore Chiang Mai Old City & Doi Suthep

Chiang Mai blends spiritual heritage and Northern Thai charm with its Old City temples, night markets, and mountainous backdrop. A must-visit is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched 3,500 feet above the city with panoramic views. The Old City’s walls enclose centuries-old temples, artisanal shops, and local eateries. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.7/5
• Location: Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand
• Timings: Old City open daily; Doi Suthep 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Price: Temple donations/fees vary

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10. Rock Climb at Railay Beach

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Railay Beach, accessible only by boat, is famed for its towering limestone cliffs and world-class rock-climbing routes that attract adventure seekers from across the globe. Beyond climbing, visitors enjoy clear sea swimming, caves, and laid-back beach bars, making Railay a blend of adrenaline and island leisure. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.5/5
• Location: Krabi Province, Southern Thailand
• Timings: Open daily (boat access)
• Price: Free (climbing guides extra)

11. Visit Khao Yai National Park

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Khao Yai National Park, Thailand’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, spans over 2,100 sq km of lush rainforest, waterfalls, and wildlife habitats. It’s a high-value stop for trekking, bird-watching (over 300 species), and spotting elephants, gibbons, and hornbills. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.6/5
• Location: Nakhon Ratchasima Province
• Timings: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM
• Price: Park entry fees apply

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12. Explore Sukhothai Historical Park

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Sukhothai Historical Park protects the ruins of Thailand’s first kingdom with lotus-shaped chedis, ancient Buddha statues, and reflective ponds. As a UNESCO site, its archaeological zone represents early Thai art and architecture, best explored by bicycle or guided tour. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.6/5
• Location: Sukhothai Province, Northern Thailand
• Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Price: Park entry fees apply

13. Visit an Elephant Sanctuary near Chiang Mai

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Elephant sanctuaries around Chiang Mai offer ethical interactions with rescued elephants, focusing on feeding, bathing, and learning about conservation. These experiences support welfare-first tourism without riding, giving insight into Thailand’s efforts to protect its national animal. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.8/5
• Location: Chiang Mai region
• Timings: Typically 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Price: Programs vary (approx. ₹2,000–₹5,000).

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14. Enjoy Pattaya Beaches & Floating Market

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Pattaya combines lively beachfront promenades with cultural attractions like the Pattaya Floating Market, where traditional Thai craft shops, boat vendors, and cultural shows reflect regional heritage. Close-by beaches offer water sports, seaside dining, and nightlife, making it a versatile day trip from Bangkok. 

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.2/5
• Location: Pattaya, Chonburi Province
• Timings: Market 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Price: Free entry (activities extra)

15. Take a Ferry to James Bond Island

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James Bond Island (Koh Tapu) rose to fame after The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) and is now a striking limestone karst formation in Phang Nga Bay. Boat tours from Phuket or Khao Lak sail through emerald waters, past mangrove forests, and into sea caves, offering unique scenery and coastal exploration.

Highlights

• Google Rating: 4.4/5
• Location: Phang Nga Bay, Southern Thailand
• Timings: Tours generally 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Price: Trip cost varies by operator

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FAQs

What are the best things to do in Thailand at night?

Top night experiences include exploring Bangkok’s Asiatique and night markets, watching cabaret or Muay Thai shows, dining on a Chao Phraya River cruise, visiting rooftop bars, or enjoying beach nightlife in Phuket and Koh Phangan.

What are the best things to do in Thailand for tourists?

Must-do experiences include visiting the Grand Palace and Wat Pho in Bangkok, exploring Ayutthaya’s UNESCO ruins, temple-hopping in Chiang Mai, island-hopping around Phuket and Phi Phi, and experiencing floating markets and Thai street food.

What are the free things to do in Thailand?

Free experiences include relaxing on public beaches, exploring local street markets, visiting many temples (donation-based), hiking to viewpoints and waterfalls in nature areas, and enjoying cultural festivals or morning monk alms-giving in select towns.

What is Thailand famous for?

Thailand is famous for golden Buddhist temples, tropical islands, flavorful cuisine, and warm hospitality. Iconic highlights include Bangkok’s royal landmarks, Phi Phi’s turquoise bays, Krabi’s limestone cliffs, and Chiang Mai’s northern culture.

Is Thailand worth visiting?

Yes. Thailand offers a rare mix of culture, beaches, adventure, wellness, and food, so you can pair temple history with island relaxation, night markets, and nature escapes in one well-planned trip.

Is Thailand expensive?

Thailand can be very budget-friendly with affordable street food, local transport, and mid-range hotels, while still offering luxury resorts and private tours for higher budgets, so costs depend mostly on your travel style and island choices.

What is the best time of year to visit Thailand?

The best time is typically November to April for drier weather and comfortable sightseeing. May to October is the monsoon season, which brings greener landscapes and fewer crowds but more rain.

Do Indians need a visa for Thailand?

Yes. Indian citizens generally need a visa, which may be obtained in advance or via Visa on Arrival for short stays, depending on current rules, so it’s best to check the latest official Thailand immigration guidance before booking.