Thailand has long been one of Asia’s most appealing tourist destinations. From the magnificent islands of all shapes and sizes and sublime palm-fringed beaches, to the sophisticated allure of the marvelous capital Bangkok and the unique Thai cuisine, this nation seems to have been blessed by the Buddhist gods from all angles. While it’s true that many places in Thailand are overcrowded, it’s always possible to find secluded ‘hideaways’ and enjoy peace and relaxation to your heart’s content. Here is a collection of the best.
Erawan Falls
If you want to experience some of the country’s natural beauty, waterfalls found deep in the land are always a classic choice. The Kanchanaburi Province of Thailand is home to the fascinating Erawan National Park characterized by amazing mountains, caves, cliffs and extensive wildlife and is best-known for its striking seven-tiered Erawan Falls, dropping from an aggregate 1,500 meters, with many being dispersed within the topography of the forest. The seventh tier is said to resemble the shape of ‘Erawan,’ the holy three-headed white elephant referred in Hindu mythology and is said to be the most striking natural scenery of the country. Accommodation is available in the Park’s bungalows or you can pitch a tent nearby.
Getting to the top of the falls can be a bit of a hike, nevertheless, it’s well worth it with many opportunities to stop and swim in one of the many majestic cool blue pools the fall creates and feeds into. To beat the heat and the crowds, you’d better go on a week day and as early in the morning as possible.
Wat Rong Khun
Another wonderful getaway, where you will find peace, purity and wisdom is the white, incredibly ornate temple of Rong Khun, located in the spiritual city of Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand. The work of Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, Wat Rong Khun is created as the ‘replica of the magnificent and resplendent heaven.’ The temple is still largely in construction and upon completion it is expected to have 9 buildings with different shapes and characters.
To reach the main building you have to cross a bridge symbolizing the ‘cycle of rebirth.’ The small half-circle in front of it stands for the tourists and the big circle for the mouth of ‘Rahu’ (Challenges of terrestrial life). The striking white ordination hall – Phra Ubosot features plenty of silver glittering pieces of mirrors and large mural paintings of the Lord Buddha in different gestures. The hall is surrounded by viharn (small halls for recitation), museum and reception pavilion. Wat Rong Khun is open from 6:00am to 5:00pm and there’s no entrance fee though donations are welcome.
Visit Thailand National Parks
Thailand is flowing with nature and wildlife. With over hundred national parks, including over 20 marine parks, each with its own unique attractions, Thailand offers great opportunities for those interested in trekking, mountain biking, photography birding, scuba diving or getting up close to exotic animals. A visit to a Thailand National Park is a real chance to explore the wonders of nature, discover unique flora and fauna and distinct ecological zones and simply relax in a charming, tranquil environment.
Khao Yai National Park, since being declared the Kingdom’s first national park in 1962, has been and remains a popular getaway, where many nature lovers go for various outdoor pursuits, ranging from education, camping, biking and even river rafting.
Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan
Perfect for those looking for peace, the isolated islands of Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan are simply amazing. Koh Tao is a premier place for diving and boasts of the most beautiful and fertile coral reefs in Thailand. Koh Nang Yuan is a place of profound beauty and serenity and life here is all about relaxing and being with the ones you love. The climate in these islands is tropical and usually rather pleasant all year round, but it might rain more between September and December.
