Thailand is a land of contrasts — it has so many busy cities, super tranquil beaches, and jungles spreading as far as the eye can go. But beyond the better-known tourist paths, there are still unusual and quirky places (that truly defy imagination!) to be discovered. Here's a pick of 15 mind-blowing places to explore in Thailand.
1. The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) - Chiang Rai
We hate to be cheesy, but the White Temple in Chiang Rai is a true modern masterpiece. In it's all-white colours, it's decorated with intricate designs and countless mirrors, blending traditional Buddhist architecture with contemporary art.
2. The Sanctuary of Truth - Pattaya
This towering wooden building is an ongoing project that combines Hindu and Buddhist elements. Every inch is hand-carved, with numerous depictions of gods and mythological stories, which showcase the craftsmanship of the Thai artisans.
3. Red Lotus Sea - Udon Thani
Every winter, this lake becomes a sea of pink for the bloom of the lotus flowers. The sight of colourful petals stretching across the water's surface is just absolutely magical.
4. Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew (The Temple of a Million Bottles) - Sisaket
Made entirely from over a million recycled beer bottles, this temple is both sustainable and extremely creative, shining green and brown under the sunlight.
5. The Giant Monkey Gathering - Lopburi
In this ancient city, the annual Monkey Buffet Festival honors the local macaques with a feast of fruits and sweets. Hundreds of monkeys enjoy the offerings – which is both a bizarre and captivating sight, as you can imagine.
6. Phang Nga Bay - Phang Nga
This bay is a surreal seascape, showing the best of Thailand's beaches. With secret caves and floating villages, you can even visit James Bond Island, where "The Man with the Golden Gun" was filmed!
7. Erawan Waterfalls - Kanchanaburi
This seven-tiered waterfall cascades through the forest, creating wonderful pools perfect for a refreshing swim. Each level offers a unique landscape, with the highest tier believed to resemble the three-headed elephant god, Erawan.
8. The Death Railway - Kanchanaburi
Built during WWII by POWs under brutal conditions, this railway stretches through beautiful (yet haunting) terrain. The bridge over the River Kwai stands as a memorial to those who perished.
9. The Golden Triangle - Chiang Rai
Where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, the Golden Triangle was once infamous for opium production. Today, it offers stunning river views and insights into the region's history.
10. The Ghost Tower - Bangkok
The unfinished Sathorn Unique Tower, often dubbed the "Ghost Tower," looms over Bangkok as a symbol of the 1997 financial crisis. Adventurous souls climb it for the eerie ambiance and panoramic views of the city.
11. Bo Sang Umbrella Village - Chiang Mai
This village is famous for hand-painted umbrellas and parasols. Watch artisans at work and pick up a colorful souvenir in this celebration of traditional craftsmanship.
12. Phi Phi Islands - Krabi
Beyond the famous Maya Bay lies a paradise of towering cliffs, clear waters, and hidden lagoons. This postcard-perfect destination is ideal for snorkeling, diving, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
13. The Hellfire Pass Memorial - Kanchanaburi
Another relic of the Death Railway, Hellfire Pass was carved out of solid rock by POWs using only hand tools. The site is now a memorial, with a walking trail and museum detailing the harrowing history.
14. Wat Samphran (The Dragon Temple) - Nakhon Pathom
This unique temple features a massive dragon sculpture wrapped around a pink cylindrical tower. Climb inside the dragon’s body for a spiritual journey to the top.
15. The Phallic Shrine (Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine) - Bangkok
Tucked away behind a luxury hotel, this shrine is filled with phallic symbols of all sizes. Despite its unconventional theme, it’s a place of reverence where locals pray for fertility and good fortune.