Thailand is one of the most popular holiday destinations known for its stunning beaches, world-famous nightlife and stunning islands. However, if you are someone who loves to explore the hidden gems beyond the mainstream tourist destination, then Thailand will not disappoint you! The Koh Kood tops the list of natural attractions in Thailand with untouched beaches meeting the lush green jungles. Here, you can immerse yourself in the serenity of nature, exploring crystal-clear waterfalls with jaw-dropping beauty and secluded shores away from the usual crowds. Another offbeat places in Thailand that you should consider on your next visit is the Kanchanaburi, which is known for its historical significance and natural beauty.
With its limestone cliffs, unspoiled beaches, and vibrant marine life, there are many offbeat places in Thailand to visit for your next adventure. So, read on our list and get ready to venture beyond the usual Thailand beauty as hidden gems are waiting to surprise you!
9 Offbeat Places In Thailand – Uncover The Best-Kept Secrets
For many travelers, Thailand is all about white sand beaches, sea-facing resorts, clear blue waters, and never-ending vibrant nightlife. However, there are many hidden gems in Thailand to visit that are affordable from Pattaya and Phuket as well that can bring the unique factor to your itinerary.
There are many islands in Thailand that are unexplored, especially that are off the coast in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Siam are less explored by tourists. If you are a history buff, then explore some of the underrated, unique places to visit in Thailand for ancient temples and Buddhist architecture. Here is the list of the 10 offbeat places in Thailand that you must explore:
Koh Kood
When you think of Thailand, the only thing that comes to your mind is bustling cities and crowded beaches. But if you are looking for natural attractions in Thailand to escape the humans, then Koh Kood is the best.
Tucked away in the eastern Gulf, Koh Kood is the 4th biggest island in Thailand and one of the untouched islands perfect for honeymooners and families far from the usual crowds. Here, you can kayak through mangrove forests, hike to the hidden waterfalls like Klong Chao, and snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs. One of the best experiences is to stroll on beaches during the sunset and sip your favorite drink under the swaying coconut palms.
How To Reach Koh Kood :
The nearest airport is the Trat, which is 64 km away from Koh Kood. From here, daily 3-4 flights are operated daily to Bangkok and vice versa. You can also opt for a taxi, minivan, or bus from Bangkok and then take a ferry to Koh Kood.
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Koh Kood is from October until May, when the weather is sunny, and the sea is calm to enjoy activities. Koh Kood gets shut off during typhoon season, which is from June to September, as no ferries and speedboats operate during this time.
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is another offbeat place in Thailand, nestled along the banks of the River Kwai. It is such a destination that whispers the stories of wartime, breathtaking waterfalls, and tranquil temples. Here, you can walk across the famous bridge over the River Kwai, which was built by the Allied prisoners of World War II and is also known as the ‘Death Railway.’
Apart from this, you can hike through the dense forests to discover the magnificent Erawan Waterfalls which is a seven-tired cascade that looks straight out of a dream world. You can enjoy swimming in the emerald green pools and picturesque natural settings. Other attractions include the Three Pagodas Pass, Sai Yok Noi Waterfall, and Wat Tham Sua, which you should definitely visit.
How To Reach Kanchanaburi:
Reaching Kanchanaburi from Bangkok is easy and affordable. You can choose from buses, trains, minivans, and taxis. However, the most traveled option is either taking a bus or minivan from Bangkok.
By Bus: The bus runs throughout the day, starting at 5 in the morning and going till 8:00 pm. The duration of the journey ranges from 2.5 hours to 4 hours, depending on several factors. The bus fares range approximately from 110 TBH. There are also tourist mini buses directly to/from Khao San Road departing for Kanchanaburi.
By Train: There are two trains a day from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, leaving from Thonburi train station, also known as Bangkok Noi Station. You can also buy a ticket for all the way to Kwai River Bridge as well. The train ride takes approximately 3 hours to reach Kanchanaburi from Bangkok. The fare for foreigners is 100 THB.
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Kanchanaburi is during the dry and cool season, which is from November to February. This is the ideal time to explore outdoor activities such as hiking, and exploring national parks. However, it is also an all-year-round destination with unique things to experience.
Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is situated on the southern side of Thailand and close to Malaysia. It is a laid-back tropical island in the Andaman Sea, where you can find vibrant coral reefs and white sand beaches. This small island has three prominent beaches to explore: Sunset Beach, Sunrise Beach, and Pattaya Beach. It is truly one of the offbeat places in Thailand for its hidden beaches, such as Pitiusas Beach, Secret Beach, and Bulow Beach.
The island is perfect for snorkeling, with lots of vibrant coral reefs, turtles, and tropical fishes. Although the island is small, the nightlife of this island is relaxed and vibrant. Another thing you can do is kayak from Sunset Beach to Koh Usen or Koh Khra, which you can rent for 200 THB per hour. Moreover, you can also take a day trip to Koh Adang for amazing views and white beaches.
How To Reach Koh Lipe:
From Bangkok: The easiest way to reach Koh Lipe from Bangkok is to take a flight to Hat Yai, then take a taxi from the airport to the Pak Bara pier, and then catch a boat to Koh Lipe. During the summer season, which is from June to September, it is important to take one of the first flights from Bangkok, which lands at Hat Yai before 9:30 so that you are on the pier on time to take a boat to the island.
From Phuket, Krabi, or Phi Phi: Traveling from Northern islands to Koh Lipe is easy from November to mid-April as there are daily boats available. From May to October, the only way to travel is to first travel to Pak Bara pier by taxi, minivan, or public bus and then take a boat to the island. Most importantly, you have to be at the pier before 14:30 to catch the last departure of the boat.
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Koh Lipe is from November to April, as the temperatures during this time are pleasant with little rain.
Koh Chang
Koh Chang is often overshadowed by Thailand’s more famous islands, like Phuket or Koh Samui, and is a unique place to visit in Thailand. Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Chang remains a largely undiscovered paradise where nature takes center stage. The island is also known as the Elephant Island because of its elephant-shaped form. Think lush jungles, cascading waterfalls, and serene beaches that feel like your own private escape. Here, you can hike through dense rainforests, stumble upon the secluded waterfall, or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life. The island’s vibe is laid-back, with small beachfront cafes.
It is the perfect destination for you if you want to unplug and experience a slice of unique and real Thailand. Visit a traditional fishing village to see a slower pace of life or explore Buddhist temples tucked away in the hills.
How To Reach Koh Chang:
By Air: You can take a direct flight from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, which takes exactly 1 hour to reach Trat Airport on the mainland. At the airport, you can hop on a minibus to get a transfer to the pier for Koh Chang. You can also book a complete package, which includes your ferry crossing and minibus service, or you can book separately.
Private transfer by Minibus or Car: This is also one of the best options to reach Koh Chang during the peak season as the prices of the flights increase drastically. You can book through several companies where you will be picked up from your hotel, and all your transfers are taken care of.
By Bus from Bangkok: If you’re leaving from Bangkok to Koh Chang, then the cheapest and most economical way to reach via Laem Ngop is by bus. You just need to catch the 999 bus from Ekamai (Eastern) Bus Terminal to the two piers at Laem Ngop, where you can then proceed to catch the ferry over to Koh Chang. The journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic. The cost is around 260 THB for one way.
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Koh Chang is from November to February when there is daily sunshine and calm seas. This is also the peak season to visit this island.
Koh Samet
If you are someone who craves adventure and a touch of tranquility, then visit Koh Samet on your trip to Thailand. What makes Koh Samet so special? For starters, it’s a quick boat ride from the mainland of Bangkok, making it an ideal destination for a quick gateway.
This island is also part of National Park, which means you will be surrounded by lush greenery and untouched beaches. Picture yourself lounging under a palm tree, listening to the gentle waves and maybe you spot a rare bird. Snorkel in its turquoise waters, hike through its verdant forests, or simply explore its charming, laid-back villages. People usually travel to this island to windsurf, sunbathe, swim, and enjoy the nightlife.
How To Reach Koh Samet:
One of the most popular ways to reach this hidden gem in Bangkok is to take a bus, which takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. The fare ranges from 150-250 THB per person. The mode of travel that we recommend is to take a private car or taxi to Ban Phe, which you can hire from Bangkok. The journey takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on the traffic. After reaching Ban Phe, park your car in the parking facilities and take a speed boat to Koh Samet.
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Koh Samet is from October to April when the seas are calm with pleasant weather.
Sukhothai
Sukhothai was the ancient city once the capital of the first Siamese Kingdom offering a unique glimpse into the history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site feels like a journey back in time, far from the noise and cross of more popular destinations in Thailand. It is surrounded by 200 historical monuments, towering Buddha statues, lotus ponds, and architectural ruins inside the Sukhothai National Park. You can opt for a half-day or full-day tour from Bangkok to explore these offbeat places in Thailand.
See the beauty of Phra Achana or the Speaking Buddha at Wat Si Chum, which is enshrined in the mondop with only four walls remaining, resulting in a strange and magical image. From here, you can also buy Chinaware, which is a valuable handicraft of this place.
How To Reach Sukhothai:
Sukhothai is easily reachable with direct flights from Bangkok. Moreover, you can also hop on a direct bus from Bangkok and Chiang Mai, which takes approximately 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic.
Best Time To Visit:
The months between October to February are the perfect time to explore this ancient town of Thailand.
Phetchaburi
Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Phetchaburi is an offbeat destination that is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility. One of the highlights of Phetchaburi is its stunning natural attractions. Head to Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand’s largest national park, where dense forests, misty mountains, and pristine rivers create a paradise for hikers and bird watchers.
The park is also home to the beautiful Pala-U Waterfall, a cascading wonder that invites you to cool off in its clear waters after a day of exploration. The city is dotted with ancient temples and palaces, such as the Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park, which sits majestically atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The blend of Thai and European architecture makes it one of the best natural attractions in Thailand.
How To Reach Phetchaburi:
By Train: One of the most scenic and relaxing ways to reach Petchaburi is by train. Trains depart regularly from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station, heading south toward Petchaburi. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the type of train you choose. Fares range from 34 THB to 153 THB.
By Bus: Another popular option is to take a bus from Bangkok to Petchaburi. Buses depart from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) in Bangkok throughout the day. The journey takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. The fare ranges from 50 to 70 THB.
By Car or Minivan: The town is approximately 120 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, and the drive typically takes about 2 hours via Highway 35 (Rama II Road) and then Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road). Minivans offer a faster option, taking about 2 hours, but can be a bit cramped, especially during peak times.
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Phetchaburi is from November to February, with a pleasant climate.
Koh Tao
Koh Tao, one of the hidden gems in Thailand to visit, is known as “Turtle Island,” where its charm lies in its laid-back vibe and untouched beauty. While Koh Tao is famous for its scuba diving, with crystal-clear waters that teem with vibrant coral reefs and marine life, there’s so much more to explore.
The island’s rugged landscape offers breathtaking viewpoints, such as the famous John-Suwan viewpoint, where you can soak in panoramic views of the island’s pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Lounge on quiet beaches like Ao Leuk or Shark Bay, where the sand is soft and the sea is inviting. You can spend days here by taking a boat trip to nearby islands to explore many gorgeous beaches of Koh Tao.
How To Reach Koh Tao:
The quickest way to Koh Tao is to fly to either Koh Samui or Surat Thani and then take a ferry to the island. If you fly into Koh Samui, which has an airport served by Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways from Bangkok and other cities, you can easily catch a ferry from Bangrak Pier. The ferry ride from Koh Samui to Koh Tao takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
You can also take a bus from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani. This is often the most economical option, with buses departing from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal. Once you reach the coastal towns, you can take a ferry to Koh Tao.
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to explore Koh Tao is from February to April.
Pai
Pai offers a serene escape into nature, making it a hidden gem among offbeat places in Thailand. Imagine winding through scenic mountain roads, with every twist revealing a new panoramic view more stunning than the last. As you arrive in Pai, you’re greeted by a quaint town filled with bohemian cafes, local markets, and friendly smiles. The true magic of Pai, however, lies in its surrounding nature.
Explore the Burmese-style temples and vibrant Pai Canyon, where you can hike along narrow trails with sweeping views of the valley below. Or take a dip in the hot springs, where you can unwind while surrounded by lush greenery. For a touch of adventure, make your way to the Lod Cave, where you can float through an underground river illuminated by lanterns held by local guides.
How To Reach Pai:
By Air: For a quicker route, Kan Air offers small aircraft flights from Chiang Mai to Pai. The flight is only about 25 minutes, but check the schedule and availability as flights are limited and can be affected by weather conditions.
By Road: Minivans are the quickest and most convenient option, with multiple departures throughout the day from Chiang Mai’s Arcade Bus Station. The ride costs around 200-250 THB and takes about 3 hours. Keep in mind that the road to Pai is famous for its 762 hairpin bends, so it’s best for those who don’t get motion sickness. A slower but cheaper option is the local bus, which also departs from Chiang Mai’s Arcade Bus Station. The journey takes about 4 hours and costs around 100-150 THB.
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Pai is during the dry and cool season, which is from November to February. These months offer pleasant weather with cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore the town.
FAQs
What are some offbeat places in Thailand to visit?
If you’re looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots in Thailand, consider visiting the charming town of Pai, nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand. It’s known for its relaxed vibe, stunning landscapes, and hot springs.
Another great choice is Koh Lanta, an island with beautiful beaches and fewer crowds compared to its more famous neighbors. For a unique experience, head to Sukhothai, the ancient capital of Thailand, where you can explore historical ruins in a serene setting. Also, don’t miss the town of Hua Hin, which combines a laid-back beach atmosphere with intriguing night markets and local culture.
How do I get to these hidden places in Thailand?
Getting to these offbeat places in Thailand typically involves a combination of flights, buses, and local transportation. For Pai, you can fly into Chiang Mai and take a minivan or bus to Pai. Koh Lanta is accessible via a flight to Krabi, followed by a ferry ride. To reach Sukhothai, you can fly to Sukhothai Airport or travel by bus from Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Hua Hin is easily reachable by train or bus from Bangkok, making it a convenient option for a quick getaway.
What activities can I do at these offbeat destinations?
In Pai, you can enjoy relaxing at hot springs, visiting waterfalls, and exploring local markets. Koh Lanta offers snorkeling, diving, and exploring nearby islands. Sukhothai is perfect for biking around ancient ruins and immersing yourself in history. Hua Hin provides opportunities for beach relaxation, golf, and sampling local seafood at vibrant night markets.
Are these offbeat destinations suitable for families?
Yes, these hidden gems in Thailand to visit are family-friendly. Pai’s laid-back atmosphere and natural attractions are great for families looking to relax. Koh Lanta offers activities suitable for all ages, including beach fun and snorkeling. Sukhothai’s historical sites can be a fun and educational experience for children. At the same time, Hua Hin provides a mix of beach activities and cultural experiences that are enjoyable for the whole family.
When is the best time to visit offbeat places in Thailand ?
The best time to visit these offbeat destinations is during the cool and dry season, from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather and is ideal for outdoor activities. However, Pai and Koh Lanta can be enjoyed year-round, with slight variations in weather and crowd sizes. For Sukhothai and Hua Hin, avoiding the rainy season (May to October) will ensure a more enjoyable visit.
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