Categories > Guides and Tips
Top 13 Unique Things to Do in Thailand
- Take a boat tri at the Red Lotus Lake
- Explore the ethereal beauty of the White Temple, Wat Rong Khun
- Discover the illuminated pavilion hidden within Phraya Nakhon Cave
- Ascend the 17-story Dragon Temple – Wat Samphran
- Explore the wonders of Khao Chi Chan Buddha
- Indulge in a taste of history with the Half-Century-Old Soup in Bangkok
- Explore Bangkok's Amulet Market
- Explore the eerie Buddhist hell depictions at Wat Saen Suk
- Visit the Sanctuary of Truth Museum
- Experience Treepod Dining
- Eat solar chicken
- Visit the Princess Cave
- Visit the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls
It’s no exaggeration to say that unique experiences await in Thailand. After all, its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, culinary delights, magical festivals, and rich history make it a treasure trove for travellers seeking an adventure.
So, how do you ensure that your visit to the Land of Smiles is extra special? Well, we’ve got you! We’ve listed down unique things you shouldn’t miss doing while you’re in the country, so read on!
Take a boat tri at the Red Lotus Lake
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Opening hours: Daily 6 AM to 5 PM
Fee: Starts at 500 THB
The Red Lotus Lake is like a chill spot in nature. When you get there, you’ll see this big, sparkly lake reflecting the blue sky and all the green trees around. You can hear birds chirping and bugs buzzing, which just adds to the chill vibe.
But the coolest thing is the thousands of pink lotus flowers all over the lake, making it look like a giant painting. Here, you can hop on a boat or just kick back and enjoy the view from the shore.
Local tip:
If you want to catch the lotus flowers in full bloom, plan your visit between December and February. Also, these flowers start to close up by midday, so aim to arrive around 6 AM. That way, you can watch the sunrise and see the lilies open up—a magical sight you won’t want to miss.
Explore the ethereal beauty of the White Temple, Wat Rong Khun
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Address: Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 5 PM
Fee: 50 THB
Up in Chiang Rai’s northern part, you’ll find the White Temple, also called Wat Rong Khun. It’s basically a modern take on Buddhist art.
When you get close, you can’t miss the temple’s super shiny white exterior, covered in all sorts of fancy carvings and mirrors that catch the sunlight. Walk through the fancy gates and you’re in this otherworldly place where everything, from the tall spires to the statues, has a story about finding peace.
Inside, it’s like a wild mix of colours and symbols, with paintings showing Buddhist stories mixed in with some modern stuff.
Local tip:
Don’t forget to check out the smaller gallery showcasing the artist’s original paintings and drawings. It’s a great opportunity to see their work up close and appreciate the details that might not be visible in reproductions.
Discover the illuminated pavilion hidden within Phraya Nakhon Cave
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Address: Ban Bang Pu, Sam Roi Yot, Sam Roi Yot District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77120, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 3 PM
Fee: 200 THB
Deep within Sam Roi Yot National Park, you’ll find Phraya Nakhon Cave, a place full of history and secrets. As you explore the cave, you’ll see sunlight peeking through a hole in the roof, lighting up the way.
Keep walking through the twists and turns until you stumble upon the main attraction—the “Throne Hall.”
This special spot has been used for worship for ages, with its walls covered in cool carvings and statues. It’s a magical sight that gives you a taste of Thailand’s awesome culture.
Local tip:
You have two options to get there: you can either take a leisurely walk, which might take around 40 minutes, or hop on a boat to the beach and make your way up from there. Choose whichever suits your mood and schedule!
Ascend the 17-story Dragon Temple – Wat Samphran
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Address: 92 8, Sam Phran, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom 73110, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 7 AM to 6 PM
Fee: Free
Wat Samphran Temple stands tall and totally impressive. Its main attraction? A huge dragon coiling around the 17-story tower, painted in bright colours and full of intricate details that catch everyone’s eye.
Climb up the tower’s winding stairs for awesome views of the countryside, with the dragon’s claws and teeth looming above you. When you reach the top, you’ll find a special place for worship, where people come to show respect to the Buddha and ask for good vibes.
Local tips:
Remember to take off your shoes before entering.
If you prefer, you can take the elevator to the top for 80 baht, or you can opt to walk up the stairs yourself.
Explore the wonders of Khao Chi Chan Buddha
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Address: Soi Khao Chi Chan, Na Chom Thian, Sattahip District, Chon Buri 20250, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 6 AM to 6 PM
Fee: Free
Khao Chi Chan Buddha is this massive monument that stands tall and represents peace, compassion, and wisdom. Carved right into a cliff, the Buddha’s calm face overlooks the green landscape below, shining gold in the sun.
Here, you get to wander around the area, and you’ll find peaceful gardens, special shrines, and detailed sculptures showing Buddhist stories. It’s a spot where you can take a breather, connect with your thoughts, and soak in the beauty of nature.
Local tip:
Early morning is definitely worth it for stunning photos, as the rest of the day the mountain’s shadow covers that side, making the lighting less ideal for photography.
Indulge in a taste of history with the Half-Century-Old Soup in Bangkok
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Address: 336 338 Ekkamai Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 9 AM to 7:30 PM
Down the busy streets of Bangkok, in the middle of all the hustle and bustle, there’s this simple bistro that’s been dishing out a slice of history for more than 50 years.
Tucked away in a quiet corner, they’ve got this pot of beef stew that’s been cooking up since forever—a real culinary gem packed with flavour and stories.
As you walk by, the tempting scent of simmering beef stew beckons you closer to the unassuming bistro. Ordering is a breeze too; just point to the English menu provided, making it easy to dive into this flavorful piece of culinary history.
Local tip:
This place has become incredibly popular with tourists, so if you want to snag a seat, it’s best to arrive early.
Explore Bangkok’s Amulet Market
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Address: Amulets Field 1 Trok Sake, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 9 AM to 4 PM
Bangkok’s busy streets have this hidden spot called the Amulet Market. Amidst the city’s chaos, you’ll find rows of stalls selling mystical charms and talismans, each thought to bring protection and good luck.
From beautifully crafted amulets to blessed trinkets, the market is a mix of ancient relics and modern finds, drawing people from all over who seek blessings and fortune.
As you explore the maze-like paths, you’ll meet collectors, tourists, and locals, all sharing a belief in the supernatural.
Local tip:
Located near the Grand Palace and adjacent to the pier, this spot is conveniently situated for exploration. You can even take a boat to visit another market across the river.
Explore the eerie Buddhist hell depictions at Wat Saen Suk
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Address: 150 Bang Saen Sai 2 Rd, Saen Suk, Chon Buri District, Chon Buri 20130, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 6 AM to 6 PM
Wat Saen Suk stands as a symbol of Thailand’s deep religious roots. But what really grabs visitors’ attention isn’t the temple’s beautiful architecture or peaceful ambiance—it’s what’s hidden below.
Venture into the underground chambers, and you’ll come face to face with a chilling portrayal of Buddhist hell. Lit only by torches, lifelike sculptures depict scenes of suffering and torment, leaving a lasting impression.
There are lots of ways to show respect and give back to the sacred spaces here. You can feed the fish, make offerings, give alms to monks, and earn merit.
Local tip:
If you’re considering bringing children along, it’s advisable to check out the place first. Some statues depict graphic scenes of torture, so it’s best to assess whether it’s suitable for them beforehand.
Visit the Sanctuary of Truth Museum
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Address: 206, 2 Pattaya-Na Kluea Rd, Nong Prue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 6 PM, 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Fee:
- Adult – 500 THB
- Children – 250 THB
Sanctuary of Truth Museum is like a love letter to Thailand’s vibrant culture. This stunning building, made entirely of wood, is a masterpiece of architecture, with its detailed carvings and tall towers reminiscent of ancient temples.
Here, you get to wander around the museum’s vast grounds, and you’ll uncover a wealth of religious artefacts, mythical creatures, and meaningful symbols, each with its own story to tell about faith and tradition.
It’s indeed a breathtaking wooden masterpiece, adorned with intricate carvings at every turn. Every angle offers a picturesque backdrop, perfect for capturing memorable photographs.
Local tips:
As per Thailand’s cultural norms, it’s important to cover your knees and shoulders when visiting a sacred place. But, if you don’t have appropriate clothing, you can borrow some for a deposit of 200 THB, which will be refunded when you return the items.
Additionally, there are various tours available in different languages. The tour guides are exceptional at communicating and offering insights into each part of the museum.
Experience Treepod Dining
Address: 110, Tambon Ko Kut, Ko Kut District, Trat 23000, Thailand
Take your dining experience to the next level with Treepod Dining, a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure nestled in the lush jungles of Thailand, offered by Soneva Hotel.
Suspended high above the forest floor, these charming tree pods offer breathtaking views of the surrounding canopy, setting the stage for an unforgettable meal.
Indulge in gourmet cuisine crafted by top chefs as you feel like you’re floating among the treetops, serenaded by the soothing sounds of nature. Whether it’s a special celebration or just a desire for a unique dining experience,
Local tip:
Apart from the unique experience of Treepod Dining, this hotel offers a range of dining options to cater to different tastes and preferences. If you’re craving variety, you can indulge in the all-you-can-eat dining experience, where you can savour a wide array of dishes to your heart’s content.
For those seeking a romantic meal with a view, beachside dining offers the perfect setting to enjoy delicious cuisine while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves.
Alternatively, you can elevate your dining experience even further with clifftop dining, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape as you dine in style.
Eat solar chicken
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Address: 4X55+X4H, Chong Sakae, Mueang Phetchaburi District, Phetchaburi 76000, Thailand
Opening hours:
- Monday – 10 AM to 8 PM
- Tuesday – 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 9:30 AM to 6 PM
If you’re up for an extraordinary culinary adventure, you’ve got to try the Solar Chicken—a traditional Thai dish with a modern twist.
Cooked solely using the power of the sun, this unique method involves using lots of reflectors and a stainless steel BBQ griller suspended to capture the sun’s rays.
Each chicken is cooked to tender, juicy perfection, infused with a delightful blend of aromatic herbs and spices that are enhanced by the distinctive solar cooking process. Conveniently located beside the road, you can easily stop by this eatery to enjoy this innovative and delicious dish.
Local tip:
If you’re intrigued by the solar cooking process and want to see it in action, consider asking to visit the place where the solar ovens are located, a few kilometers away. You might even get to meet the gentleman who cooks the chicken using this innovative method.
It’s a fascinating experience that adds a unique twist to your culinary journey.
Visit the Princess Cave
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Address: 2R3R+R4R, Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
Fee: Free
Phra Nang Cave in Krabi, also called the Princess Cave, is a place worth visiting that’s covered in lush greenery welcoming you in. Inside, discover a hidden sanctuary with ancient formations lit up by golden light.
But there’s more to this cave than meets the eye. Locals believe it’s home to a sea princess who protects fishermen. That’s why it’s become a sacred spot, with people leaving offerings for her.
And here’s the interesting bit: the cave’s also linked to fertility. You’ll find phallic-shaped statues symbolising fertility and good luck. It’s a cool blend of legend, nature, and culture all in one spot.
Local tip:
As it’s situated by the beach, keep in mind that it can get quite crowded. However, the bustling atmosphere adds to the excitement!
While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to spot monkeys and other wildlife roaming around. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try rock climbing and other fun activities available in the area.
Visit the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls
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Address: Mae Ho Phra, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 5 PM
Fee: Free
Dive into an extraordinary natural wonder by exploring the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls in Chiang Mai. Unlike regular waterfalls, these unique falls boast limestone rocks with a naturally grippy surface, making it easy to climb up the cascading tiers.
Feel the cool water against your skin as you ascend this natural staircase, surrounded by lush greenery and the tranquil sounds of nature. The limestone formations resemble big foams from a far, adding to the allure and charm of the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls.
Local tips:
Make sure to use the ropes when you come across them, especially during the final climb to the top. They’ll provide extra support and help you navigate the trickier sections safely.
You can easily rent a locker at the area for just 30 THB to keep your belongings safe while you explore the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls.