Thailand also known as the Land of Smiles is Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist destination. Those who’ve travelled extensively around the country will attest to its beauty and magnificence.
For those who love solo vacations around Thailand, different destinations are right for you. Here are but a few.
1. Chiang Mai
While Chiang Mai may be a busy location for tourists, it has a different vibe from other cities in Thailand. The area has slightly cooler weather than the green hills which keeps visitors coming all year long. You’ll love the Thai culture and food thanks to the Burmese residents and the many ethnic hill tribe people.
You should try visiting Chiang Mai on weekends and take advantage of night markets and cheap shopping. The Pae Gate is one destination you shouldn’t miss to pass by if you’re around Chiang Mai. The area features a spacious public square that hosts different public events from cultural shows, regular live music, and water fights.
You’ll also get to learn a lot about its history that dates back to the 18th century when it was the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. During its formation in the early 13th-century adjacent moat, the wall and other gates were built to act as defensive measures in case of an attack (the army from Burma were a constant threat).
Doi Suthep is a regal mountain area overlooking Chiang Mai from the northwest and is also home to Thailand’s largest National park.
2. Bangkok
Bangkok is a chaotic and restless metropolis, but it’s one of the areas that should be on your Thailand solo travel guide the next time you’re on vacation. Some of the areas you shouldn’t miss to visit on your next trip include Wat Pho – Home of reclining Buddha, Wat Arun (the best and oldest landmark in Bangkok) as well as the Grand Palace.
Wat Pho is one of the largest temples in the city and is popular for its giant reclining Buddha that stands over 46 meters long covered in gold leaf. It’s also a ten minutes walk to the Grand Palace. It’s one of the best places to relax and get a traditional Thai massage after a long day of travelling. If you’re the outgoing type, visiting the rooftop bars in Bangkok for a great private dining experience is another option you should not miss.
3. Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is located two hours’ drive from Bankok. This area is popular for different tourist attraction sites including a tree that has grown around Buddha statue’s head. Ayutthaya is home to wat Phra Sri Sanphet (temple of the holy) which served as the Siamese capital for over 700 years. Today, the place stands as a testament to the culture of the past.
The steps of this architectural monument are steep and the architecture breathtaking. There’s also an option for an elephant ride if you’re feeling sun-drenched and weary.
4. Chiang Rai White Temple
White temple (Wat Rong Khun) is a striking Buddhist temple located 20 minutes south of Chiang Rai. Designed and constructed by Buddhist artist Ajarn Kosotpipat, the temple has become a major highlight on many Thailand’s itineraries.
The Chiang white temple doesn’t match any traditional temple style throughout Thailand. The designer created a perfect representation of what he envisions as obstacles to enlightenment. He chose to settle for gold which represents Buddha’s nature and mosaics to represent wisdom. The temple isn’t just a thought-provoking art piece but an extraordinary place of worship.
5. Mae Hong Son
This breathtaking Thailand for solo travellers’ destination site is situated on the route to Ban Rak Thai and junction of highway 1095, a quiet location off many tourist hotspots. Adjacent to the highway is the Hon Son bridge that is a must-stop for anyone travelling between Soppong and Mae Hong Son.
There is a mud spa nearby where you’ll get to unwind after a long day of travelling. You can still get to access the Shan village located at the western end of the route. Don’t miss to talk a walk to the Shan style temple on the low hill (Phu Sama) to get a better view of the bridge. There is a sealed road that connects the temple and the bridge which is for pedestrians only.
Aside from providing monks with access to the village, the main users are tourists.
6. Kanchanaburi
There isn’t a lot to see in the west compared to the south and North, but Kanchanaburi is one of the areas worth visiting. The story of Kanchanaburi dates back to World War II. Some of the important landmarks that are worth seeing include a railroad that was built by war prisoners during the Japanese invasion.
There are many more memorial structures and war cemetery that are worth your attention. About an hour’s drive from Kanchanaburi is the Hellfire Pass. This is was one of the most difficult areas to construct as the prisoners were forced to remove huge solid blocks covering the area. This area has also got plenty of national parks where you’ll get to see diverse animal species.
7. Sukhothai
Sukhothai is a renowned world heritage site. Everything about this magnificent destination tells the story of those who were there before. This is a great destination for any solo traveller as you’ll get to enjoy and appreciate the temples in the Sukhothai Old City which were the original capital of the Kingdom of Siam.
Sukhothai also known as the dawn of happiness is a historic park comprising of ruins of more than twenty-six temples. You can enter through the ancient courtyard through the gates located on each wall and get to experience an immense ancient culture
About the Author
Maryn Mcdonnell is a creative content writer. She spends her days working closely with many entrepreneurs and creative thinkers from various companies including Cielo Sky Bar & Restaurant where you can find a great private dining experience in Bangkok. Her interests include travel, self-improvement, and technology. Find Maryn on Twitter @MarynMcdonnell
All look awesome Maryn. I love CM, Bangkok and Phuket. Pak Nam Pran and Koh Lanta were also a blast.
Ryan