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The White Lotus Season 3 has us dreaming of a trip to Thailand. Luxurious hotels, white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. If you're anything like us, your flight alert is already set. (To set up a flight alert, head to the Going app, upgrade to a Premium or Elite membership, and tap My Trips, where you can sign up for notifications when airfare to Thailand drops, whether you have specific dates in mind or not.)
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In the meantime, here are some of our top picks for the most beautiful places in Thailand to add to your itinerary.
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Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park is a highlight of Thailand, with its pristine lakes shrouded by ancient rainforests as far as the eye can see. There are myriad activities to get involved with amidst its breathtaking beauty. Trek through ancient rainforests teeming with rare birds, deer, tapir, monkeys, slow loris, and elephants.
If you're not a hiker, kayak along the deep green lakes, or just kick back and relax on scenic boat tours, making sure to include Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The park's landscapes and diverse ecosystems make it a paradise for nature-lovers, bird-watchers, and adventure-seekers alike, offering an unforgettable deep dive into one of Thailand's most stunning corners.
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Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park sprawls over and around the peak of Thailand's highest mountain, Inthanon, at 8,415 feet, making it one of the most popular destinations for hiking and trekking trips (with guides, as much of the park is protected lands of local hill tribes).
The park is the country's crown jewel of natural beauty, with breathtaking panoramic vistas of rolling hillsides and lush forests. It's also the source of the Ping River, which flows through Chiang Mai, so it's full of waterfalls. Vibrant flora (including cherry blossom trees in late January) and rare migrating birds make it a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
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Old Phuket Town
Old Phuket Town's charm lies in its beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture, a testament to its rich history and cultural heritage. Wander through its narrow streets lined with vibrantly colored shop houses adorned with detailed facades, ornate shutters, and intricate wooden carvings. Each building tells a story of the island's past, blending European and Asian influences into a unique architectural tapestry. The juxtaposition of old-world charm and bustling street life is particularly enticing for photographers (and Instagrammers).
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Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga Bay's ethereal beauty is internationally famous and probably one of the first images that come to mind when you think of Thailand. Khao Phing Kan, known in English as James Bond Island, was featured in The Man with the Golden Gun. This bay of islands captivates travelers with its surreal limestone karsts popping up from the emerald-green waters. The formations, shaped by nature over millennia, create a breathtaking backdrop for kayaking or just kicking back on a boat ride.
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Ayutthaya Historical Park
UNESCO World Heritage site Ayutthaya is a stunner. Its old city center is packed full of tall, ornate temples, each with tons of character. The ancient city is historically significant, as it was one of the former capitals of Thailand prior to its relocation to Bangkok in 1782. Consequently, Ayutthaya is the country's top destination for majestic ruins, towering pagodas, and intricate sculptures, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into its past.
Amidst the serene riverside landscape, Ayutthaya's temples stand as silent witnesses to centuries of grandeur. Travelers can explore the storied streets with a local guide or DIY by bicycle or moped. Be sure not to miss the 17th-century Wat Chaiwatthanaram complex and the bright yellow St. Joseph Church, which shows how international Siam (the official name of Thailand until 1939) was in the 17th century.
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Long Beach, Koh Chang
Long Beach is Koh Chang's most remote bay, and it's worth the pilgrimage. The isolated shores captivate with pristine stretches of powdery white sand, gently lapped by turquoise waters and framed by lush greenery. Unlike its more crowded counterparts, Long Beach retains a sense of tranquility and natural beauty, offering an escape for beachgoers seeking relaxation.
With its picturesque sunsets, clear swimming waters, and laid-back atmosphere, it's one of Thailand's finest. Just be sure to pack a picnic-there's nothing there at all.
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Sukhothai Historical Park
Sukhothai Historical Park is another UNESCO World Heritage site and ruined city in the center of Thailand, just as stunning as Ayutthaya but with fewer visitors. Nestled amidst lush landscapes, the park showcases the remnants of the great, ancient Sukhothai Kingdom that once ruled most of central Thailand.
Marvel at the intricately carved temples, majestic Buddha statues that are remarkably intact, and serene lotus ponds. The terracotta ruins, adorned with exquisite stucco designs and delicate motifs, reflect the grandeur of the lost empire.
Learn about other beautiful places throughout Thailand (and how to get to each one) in our guide.
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Written by:
Lucie Grace
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Lucie Grace is a freelance writer and researcher currently based in India. During her grad school studies, she was lucky enough to take part in an Erasmus exchange program, first visiting Valparaíso in 2018. She traveled in South America extensively throughout 2019 and always came back to Valpo as her favorite city.
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