The best of Thailand: What to visit in your short time

Are you off on an adventure to Thailand in the near future? There are plenty of amazing spots to check out while you’re there, but only a limited amount of time to see them. Today, let’s run through the best of Thailand, and take a look at the spots you absolutely have to visit on your travels.

Pai is one of the most interesting spots to visit if you’re after a traditional taste of Thailand. Located at the base of a mountain, this city offers backpackers the chance to get involved with a number of activities which give you a real sense of local life.

Nature lovers can relax and
enjoy the majesty of nearby waterfalls , while anyone with a passion for animals will be able to frolic with elephants in a local park dedicated to the gigantic beasts.

This temple, dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, was constructed somewhere between the < 10th and 13th century on the foundation of an extinct volcano . It was intended to be an Earthly replica of Mount Kailash – an area said to be the sacred home of Shiva.

An annual festival is held here every April, which consists of archaic Brahmin ceremonies, as well as modern sound-and-light shows. As if that wasn’t enough, you’ve also got the brilliance of the ancient ruins to explore and bask in.

We all loved running about with water pistols on a hot day as a kid, but as we got older it (sadly) became somewhat less socially acceptable. That pleasure isn’t one you have to deny yourself any longer however, thanks to the presence of the Songkran Water Festival.

People are said to take to the streets armed with buckets and water guns
, and it’d be advised you leave any electronics at home in order to ensure they don’t get damaged by the insane amount of H20 which’ll be getting splashed about. Prepare for barrel loads of fun, and a very damp set of clothes.

Many argue this is one of the most naturally beautiful areas to visit in all of Thailand, with the Khao Sok National Park playing host to jungle forests, limestones karsts and a plethora of different rivers and lakes.

For most people the crowning glory comes in the form of the wide range of wildlife you’ll find strewn across the region. Just some of the creatures you’ll discover here include:

• Wild Boar

• Bears

• Barking Deer

• Elephants

• Tapirs

• Several different breeds of monkeys

5. Ayuthaya

The former capital of Siam is now one of the most fascinating locations to visit thanks in no short part to its significant fall from grace throughout the centuries. Having been founded in 1350 as a hub of religious and cultural magnitude, a 1767 attack from the Burmese left it in ruins.

Ayuthaya has recovered since then, but now stands as a fascinating insight to the history of yesteryear, as opposed to anything else. The spot is also handily located in relation to the current Thai capital of Bangkok – just 50 miles away.

Make sure when you’re next in Thailand to check out one of these five amazing spots – or maybe a few if you do find the time. You won’t be disappointed by any of them.