Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand, is one of the most popular tourist spots in Asia. Thailand is situated at the geographical heart of South-East Asia, on the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.

Covering an area of about 513,120 square kilometers, Thailand is the third largest country in South-East Asia. Boasting of magnificent islands, stupendous beaches, picturesque hills, mysterious caves, dazzling waterfalls, and lush green forested areas, Thailand abounds in wonderful attractions.

However, these attractions are not just the reason that draws millions of people from across the world per year, but beyond that. The destination is also much favored for its salubrious tropical climate, sumptuous cuisines, heritage palaces, interesting museums, fabulous architecture, ancient shrines interesting activities, and above all, the presence of smiling amicable Thai people.

Additionally, Thailand is also one of the Asia’ preferred destination for medical and wellness tourism, with a number of sophisticate private hospitals and spa establishments offering rejuvenating massages and beauty therapies.

Attractions in Thailand are categorized in terms of regions, such as, the Central Region, the North-East Region, the East Region, and the South region. The Central region is much famed for its sites of historical significance. Bangkok, the capital city of the country, is perhaps the greatest of all attractions in this region.

Just few among many of the highlights in the region are Wat Phra Kaeo and Grand Palace complex, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Wat Saket (Golden Mount), Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Benchannabophit (Marble Temple), Vimanmek Palace, and the Pasteur Institute’s Snake Farm. Another much famed tourist attraction in this region is Ayuthaya Historical Park, which is about 75 kilometers north of Bangkok.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayuthaya once served as the capital of the Thai kingdom for more than 400 years. A host of historic temples, crumbling palaces and fortresses, and ruins of ancient sculptures and architecture that stand as a symbol of ancient Thai kingdoms can be seen here.

Also, included in the highlights of this region are Kanchanaburi, whose focal point is an allied war cemetery; Lop Buri – an ancient city that dates back to the 9th century; Phetchaburi, which is renowned for its attractions such as Khao Luang Caves filled with statues of Lord Buddha, the hilltop palace of Phra Nakhon Khiri, and Wat Suwanaram noted for its murals; and Hua Hin, which is the country’s oldest beach resort.

With Laos and Burma as its neighbor, the Northern Region of Thailand is bestowed scenic attractions covering forested hills and fertile river valleys. This area also encompasses some parts of the fabled Golden Triangle. Among the attractions in this region are Sukhothai, which is noted for its huge stone images of Lord Buddha.

Phitsanulok, which is famed for Wat Phra Si Rattana Maha That, enshrining the much revered Phra Buddha Chinarat; Lampang, with several Burmese style temples; Lamphun, boasting of Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, which stands as a fine example of northern religious architecture; Chiang Mai, an ancient city founded in 1296; and Nan, where annual boat races are conducted.

Bordered by the Mekong River and Laos, the North-East region has a unique topography, and is home to attractions such as Khao Yaii National Park, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon, Ubon Ratchathani, Yasothon, and Khon Kaen. Included in the attractions of the Eastern region are Pattaya, one of the premier beach resorts in Asia; Rayong, whose prime attraction is Ban Phe fishing village; Chanthaburi, which is renowned for its historic sites; and Trat, with Ko Chang Marine National Park.

When comes to the Southern Region, this area contains a multitude of lush islands, beautiful palm-fringed beaches, forested mountains, and picturesque sanctuaries. Some of the attractions in the region are Phuket – the largest island in the country; Krabi, with 75-million-year-old Susan Hoi shell graveyard; Pattani, which boasts of the most beautiful mosque in the country; Surat Thani, with the magnificent island of Ko Samui; and Chumphon, with excellent scuba diving facilities.

Above all, people touring Thailand could indulge in a number of activities from water sport activities such as diving, paragliding, sailing, and deep sea fishing to activities like viewing traditional Thai boxing, indulging in traditional Thai massage, taking Thai cooking classes, and jungle trekking.

In short, Thailand has everything that is required to make your vacation in the destination amazing as well as unforgettable. Hence, the destination has accommodation choices to cater to every taste and budget. From hotels and resorts to condominiums and apartments, accommodation choices are aplenty in the destination. Along with these options, also a popular choice is villa, which is perfect for those seeking privacy and luxury.

Visitors to Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand come for the quaint, unhurried pace of life, the bargain shopping and the potential to break out on retreats into the mountains and jungle with a trekking trip. Whatever your reason for coming, Chiang Mai promises plenty of opportunities for excitement, relaxation and historic journeys into the city’s past.

A trip to Mae Sa

A 30-minute drive to Mae Sa is a fun event for the entire family, as the area is packed with activities. Tourists venture out for the orchid nurseries; the well-known Elephant Camp where visitors can ride elephants and watch performances including a football match played by elephants; a snake farm and bungee jumping. Finally, the Mae Sa Waterfall offers a place to relax or perhaps go hiking.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai is well-known for its handicrafts, silk and large markets. This all comes to a focus at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a veritable shopper’s dream. Stretching the entire length of Chang Klan road, this market has become more of a tourist’s domain than it once was. Here you’ll find an assortment of jewellery, clothing, antiques, silver, all manners of souvenirs and knock-off designer items. It’s open every evening until midnight. This is where you’ll find many of Chiang Mai hotels.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Situated south of Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon National Park is a unique wildlife preserve and often makes for a comfortable cool weather retreat after spending time in the city. It’s the tallest mountain in Thailand at a grand height of 8,415 feet. Camping is permitted in the park and the natural surroundings make for an excellent getaway. This is one of the best places for trekking in Northern Thailand.

Wat Phratat Doi Suthep

Overlooking the Old City of Chiang Mai, the mountain of Doi Suthep holds one of Thailand’s most sacred temples. The 300-stair climb leads you to the large chedi and golden spire. This large temple complex dates back to the 14th century and the view of the city achieved from the marble courtyard is worth the trip alone. No trip to Chiang Mai is complete without visiting Doi Suthep. Ask the concierge at the hotels for assistance getting up there, it’s one of the most important in Thailand.

Thai massage and spas

Places to get a massage can literally be found on almost every street of the Old City, and prices range depending on quality and accessibility. Thai massage is world-renown, and some of the most skilled masseurs can be found in the more upscale spas, which also offer body scrubs and detox and beautification treatments. Even at these high-end facilities, the money spent is still fantastic value when compared to the superb quality of the treatment.

Chiang Mai Zoo

Don’t be surprised if a local asks you if you’ve visited the zoo yet—most likely, they’re wondering if you’ve seen the pair of pandas which are on loan from China, an endless source of pride for locals. These are only two of the more than 6,000 animals on display at the zoo which sits at the base of Suthep Mountain, from where there are wonderful views of the city.

Courses and training

Chiang Mai overflows with all sorts of courses in which tourists can enrol for only a few days or weeks at a time. Due to the affordable prices and the comfortable atmosphere in Chiang Mai, visitors are tempted to dig in and stay a while. So whether you’re looking to learn the art of Thai massage, perfect your Thai cooking skills or study Thai boxing, you’ll find it here for every level and length of time. When in Thailand this is highly recommended.

The Old City

A tour of the Old City is easily done on foot or by bike, and is the best way to come face-to-face with Chiang Mai’s legacy. Portions of the old wall were restored in the 19th century, and the 700-year-old moat that surrounds the city has been beautifully preserved. The city gates have also been restored, and each marks an important commercial avenue in or out of the city. Temples are spread across the entire Old City, and some of the more important include Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phrasingh and Wat Chiang Mai.

Adventure sports

Any number of adventure sports can be organised through travel agencies in Chiang Mai. Some of the more popular outings include white-water rafting on the Mae Tang River, which is 1 hour, 30 minute drive out of town; mountain biking on Doi Suthep with the added bonus of spending time at the temple if you make it all the way to the top, and rock climbing at Crazy Horse Buttress. There’s also an outdoor climbing wall located to one side of the Night Bazaar. Trekking in Chiang Mai is perhaps the biggest drawcard

Trekking Northern Thailand

It’s impossible to list the major attractions of Chiang Mai without mentioning trekking. Tour guide operators use the city as a springboard from which to organise trips into the surrounding mountainous jungles. Expeditions are packed with a variety of activities and range from daytrips to several night journeys that include hiking, elephant riding and bamboo rafting. Routes are planned around hill tribe villages, where overnight accommodation is provided. Trekking is the best way to see rural Northern Thailand.

Remember to book your Chiang Mai hotels early in the high season.