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“It is not down in any map, true places never are”, quoted Herman Melville in the classic Moby Dick. And it does hold true for the real seafarers, travellers and adventurers on a quest to explore the hidden nooks and corners of this world in this limited sojourn on earth.
So, when we talk about Thailand, it is only obvious that you are transitioned into a daydream of vacationing amidst the azure seas, electrifying nightlife, rejuvenating spas and gorging on mouth-watering food. However, it may be a surprise for you, when we say that the true enchantment of Thailand lies in the roads (say islands) less travelled by giving a miss to the popular retreats like Bangkok and Pattaya.
If you are one of those who likes to stay ahead in every race, why should your travel expeditions be any different? So, hurry up and book a ticket to these mesmerising places in Thailand before others map it on the tourist trail.
1. Surround yourself with serenity of Chiang Mai
Steeped in history, Chiang Mai will please you with a perfect amalgamation of modernity and laid-back vibes of a long-gone era. The city is adorned with a number of glorious temples in its old town while the pristine rainforests are not too far to bring you closer to nature. From taking a walk through the traditional boulevards to enjoying the casual escapes of modern life, this city will leave you captivated with every footstep you take. The best places not to miss when you are here include Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.
2. Backpack through Pai
Chart an off-the-beaten path, when you navigate through the riveting landscapes of Pai on your next backpacking venture. With a number of budget accommodations and its relaxed ambience, it is a paradise for hippies and nomadic souls in Thailand. It is where you will not realize how time slips by while you soak in the beauty of its misty mountains and gurgling waterfalls. Backpackers here can enjoy numerous activities like hiking on the unknown trails amidst the jungles, exploring the caves, soak in the views at Pai’s Grand Canyon and enjoying a dip in the hot springs.
3. Rejuvenate in Chiang Rai
Soaked in history and culture, Chiang Rai is your idyllic retreat to escape the hustle and bustle of life. Famous for representing the vestiges of Lanna culture in its most spectacular ways, Chiang Rai is your ticket to see something new at every step. The city’s landscape is dotted with a number of places like Doi Mae Salong, Phu Chi Fah, Wat Rong Khun and Oub Kham Museum to help you relax and unwind breaking the monotony. Surrounded by a quaint ambience, Chiang Rai is a wonderful place for anyone who doesn’t like to see the crowds spoiling their laid-back vacation.
4. Enjoy the rustic life in Mae Hong Son
Don your voyager’s hats to have a taste of authentic Thai lifestyle by walking through the unexplored corridors of Mae Hong Son. Like an oasis of peace, Mae Hong Son oozes with raw natural beauty having more than 80% virgin forests and offers an answer to your search for tranquility.
Promising you a slice of rural life, Mae Hong Son is a city where you will love to take a break from your usual dependence on modern conveniences and sink in the rustic way of living. Some of the must-do activities in Mae Hong Son comprise of kayaking, rafting, visiting the hill tribes and enjoying the deep cultural experiences of Thailand.
5. Explore the lesser known Lampang
Hiding in plain sight with its plethora of astonishing ways of bringing a smile on a tourist’s face, Lampang is one of the most fascinating destinations in Thailand. Renowned for its horse drawn carriages and surreal surroundings, Lampang is your perfect retreat in Thailand to bring alive your dream of an offbeat vacation. Whether it is the jaw-dropping temples or its exciting elephant center, tourists are in for a treat when it comes to spending a few days of your life in Lampang. The most noteworthy tourist attractions in Lampang are Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, Wat Lai Hin, Wat Pong Sanuk, Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao etc.
6. Have an adventure in Chiang Dao
Nestled amidst the green mountains, Chiang Dao should be your getaway if savoring an adrenaline rush defines your vacation goals. With a misty landscape covering the limestone caves, Chiang Dao will not fail to leave you spellbound unexpectedly during most of the time on your vacation. It offers a wide array of escapades for the adventure junkies like hiking to Doi Luang Chiang Dao, rafting on the Ping river, camping in San Phakia along with exploring the famous caves present here.
7. Retrace the history at Sukhothai
For those who are always wishing to get a time machine and see the past, they may find their respite with travelling back in time in the exquisite lands of Sukhothai. Often hailed as the birthplace of Thai art, architecture and language, Sukhothai leaves you fascinated by its historical sites and temple ruins. Soaked in heritage, it is a paradise for travelers interested in capturing a glimpse of ancient Thailand. With 21 UNESCO heritage sites to boast of, Sukhothai Historical Park in Thailand is a place that must be on your bucket list if being called a history lover is your motivation for travelling.
8. Be charmed by the coasts of Chanthaburi
One can never be satiated by art carved in concrete and an extravaganza of fancy boulevards, when the ocean beckons you to a day of reverie in Chanthaburi. The beaches here paint a postcard perfect picture to bring out your wanderlust with various fishing villages and spectacular views.
Moreover, Chanthaburi scores brownie points since these beaches are less touristy allowing you to soak in the sun, sea and sand without being bothered by the crowds. To add to the spectacle, Chanthaburi leaves the tourists enthralled with its waterfront buildings, natural splendor of Namtok Phlio National Park and its bustling gem markets.
Still wondering? Well, we just have to tell you that don’t listen to what we say and go see it yourself. Don’t worry. You can always thank us later!
