Thailand Travel Information Guide - Discovering Thailand

Travellers, upon arrival in this land, are safe from the turmoil of life.

The Kingdom of Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, and one of the finest countries in the world in which to spend a vacation. Blessed with a tropical climate that is neither too hot, too dry, nor too wet in the monsoon season, it is possible to travel comfortably in Thailand at any time of the year.

Travellers, upon arrival in this land, are safe from the turmoil of life. Even in Bangkok, the Thai uniqueness in food, architecture, language, customs and religion enliven and pleases the senses. Away from Bangkok, at the pristine sandy beaches and emerald seas in the south, or in the northern mountains visitors can drowse their days away in a long deep dream of peace. The past is a forgotten thing, the present is heaven, and the future you can leave to take care of itself.

The people inhabiting Thailand today share a rich ethnic diversity - mainly Thai, Mon, Khmer, Laotian, Chinese, Malay, Persian and Indian. Thai culture is evident everywhere in the Kingdom: in Buddhist rites which take place in numerous Thai temples, the succession of festivals that occur throughout the year, and the country markets where locals haggle, politely, for everything from food to clothing.

For travellers, Thailand is the only gateway in which to experience the special life of Southeast Asia. Due to the fact that the country has never been colonised, the Thai individuality blooms and remains vibrant. When the journey is over, the Kingdom will leave visitor with the desire to return again and again, as the smells, sights and memories of a land and people remain indelible in their thoughts, for Thailand is a feast that they will always carry with them.

Thailand is divided into four main regions detailed below:

Central Plains: Twenty-four provinces make up central Thailand with Bangkok as its centre. The rain-fed network of rivers and canals makes this the most fertile part of Thailand, supporting vast fields of rice, sugar cane and a variety of fruit. Some of the oldest settlements are found here along with some of the most dazzling temples, day and night markets, and historical ruins.

North: The North’s hilly ranges are home to most of Thailand’s hill tribe population. Slimly populated and undisturbed by modern man, these mountain ranges have vast rugged vistas, waterfalls, and footpaths where one can discover these remarkable features. It should be noted that the first true Thai kingdoms arose in what is now Northern Thailand. Hence, the region is endowed with a wide range of traditional culture and architecture, including some of the country’s most majestic temples.

Northeast: Known as the “I-San” region, traditional Thai customs continue to flourish in this area. The area rests on the Khorat Plateau. Compared to the rest of Thailand, the pace is slower but the people retain the same friendliness that is found throughout the Kingdom. Both Lao and Khmer influences can be seen and felt within the ancient temple ruins, distinctive food, architecture, and the region’s dialect.

South: Bound by the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, the south is a beach person’s paradise. Scattered islands off the coast accentuate this tropical haven. Brightly painted fishing boats catch a myriad of seafood, and long stretches of white sandy beaches beckon. The world seems brighter and more serene here, and one’s childhood dream of tropical beauty is within a few hours reach.

Bangkok, our capital city, is also the major entry point to Thailand. Here is a selection of the delightful attractions you will find in and around “The City of Angels”.

Our Historical Island- Rattanakosin Island is where Bangkok was founded. It is the location of the magnificent Grand Palace and The Temple of The Emerald Buddha. Other major points of interest are Wat Po, which has the largest reclining Buddha in Thailand, the National Museum and Sanam Luang where many important royal ceremonies are held such as the annual Royal Ploughing Ceremony.

On the other side of the Chao Phraya River, stands the magnificent Wat Arun or Temple of Dawn which is lit up at night.

Adjacent to Rattanakosin Island is Bangkok’s China Town where there are many gold shops and Chinese Herbalists.

From China Town, head towards the Central Business District around Silom Road to find may jewellery shops, which have helped create the image of Bangkok as the Gem Capital.

Upscale shopping in modern air-conditioned complexes stretches from Pathumwan intersection near Siam Square all the way up Sukhumvit Road to Soi 24.

Shopping for traditional Thai handicrafts is best left to Saturday and Sunday at the Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is the world’s largest “flea market”. The BTS Skytrain and the new Underground both have stations at this market, making it very convenient for tourists to get there from their downtown hotels.

These provinces in the far north are particularly enjoyable in the cooler months of December-January when temperatures drop to below zero in the mountainous areas.

In Chiang Rai you can stand at the Golden Triangle and in one view see Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. There is a popular border crossing at Mae Sai to Tachilek in Myanmar and beautiful gardens on Doi Tung where the late HRH Queen Mother had her palace built. There are many hilltribe villages throughout this province.

Chiang Mai has for many years been a popular holiday area with its unique Lanna culture, also many hilltribe villages, magnificent Northern-style Temples, particularly the one on Doi Suthep. Doi Intanon, about one and a half hours drive from Chiang Mai city is the highest mountain in Thailand. The Chiang Mai Zoo has become a major attraction with the arrival of two giant Pandas on loan from China.

Chiang Mai is a major center for furniture and handicrafts, which can be bought at the Night Bazaar and Ban Tawai Village.

Mae Hong Son is a province of mist-shrouded hills and valleys, that invites travellers who enjoy jungle trekking, cool mountain streams and waterfalls. It also has many hilltribe villages growing vegetables and producing traditional woven cloth and silverware.

The Tham Lod cave system is one of the largest in Southeast Asia with three adjoining caverns through which a stream flows.

Lamphun is renown for its fruit especially its longan which are in season during July-August. The most important Temple in Lamphun town is Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, dating back to 1044.

The Mae Ping National Park has the 7-level Ko Luang Waterfall and nearby caves have fascinating stalactites and stalagmites. This province is famous for its lamyai orchards where the trees are so prolific with fruit that the branches have to be supported.

Lampang is home to the world-acclaimed Thai Elephant Conservation Center where tourists can see elephants being trained for work in the forests. The town is also famous for its horse-drawn carriages which are featured on the provincial emblem.

The homes in the Old Market area reflect architectural influences of Thai, Burmese, Chinese and British.

Phayao has one of the largest fresh water lakes in Thailand which is the site for fish farming, particularly the giant catfish. The ethnic Thai Lue communities at Chiang Khum and Chiang Muan are noted for the fine weaving in silk and cotton. You can see this at their own cultural center at Ban Yuan Village.

Nan has one of the most beautiful Temples in northern Thailand. Wat Phumin was built in 1596 houses 4 identical gilded Sukhothai Buddha images sitting back to back facing all 4 directions. Sao Din or Earth Pillars south of Nan features sculptured clay columns eroded by nature. To the north there is Tham Pha Tup Forest Reserve which has more that 17 caves,

Phrae can be seen at a glance at the Folklore Museum where there are a collection of buildings showing the different types of homes and markets. The province’s most famous Temple is Wat Phrathat Cho Hae, located on a small hill near the town. Its tall chedi is wrapped in gold. There is a strange collection of soil pillars created by erosion at Phae Muang Phi.

Uttaradit is the site for The Praya Phichai Daap-hak Memorial that honours a valiant Governor of 200 years ago who fought off invaders. Another interesting attraction is the Uttaradit Provincial Cultural Hall which houses important historical relics.

Tak is a mountainous province with many spectacular waterfalls in the heavily forested national parks. It is a popular place for white water rafting on the Huai Mae Klong River. The Thi Lo Su Waterfall is one of the most breathtaking in Thailand.

Sukhothai was the first capital of Siam, founded in the 13th century. This birthplace of our nation has been lovingly restored and is now a World Heritage Historical Park. Si Satchanalai is also a World Heritage site and well worth a visit.“Sangkhalok” ceramic ware produced 700 years ago can be seen at the Sangkhalok Museum.

Phitsanulok is another province with an interesting history as it was the birthplace of King Naresuan The Great. The Nan River flows through the provincial capital, where house boats line both banks. A 700 hundred year old Giant Tamarind Tree is located at Tambon Ban Kok near the main town.

Petchabun has the oldest known City Pillar Shrine in the country which originally came from Si Thep. Streams flowing down cracks and crevices in the mountains have created a huge 12-level waterfall in the Tat Mok National Park. Thailand has its own “Little Switzerland” at Khao Khor where its beautiful scenery and cool weather attracts many visitors.

Kamphaeng Phet is another province that has many historical places to visit. Muang Nakhon Chum, Muang Chakangrao and Muang Trai Trueng are all in Kamphang Phet Historical Park. For nature-lovers, Khlong Lan and Mae Wong National Parks have rivers ideal for rafting and many trekking routes past waterfalls.

Phichit has a history dating back 900 years, remnants of which can be seen in some of the old city wall, moats and Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat in Muang Kao, the old city park. The Fisheries Department has a fresh water breeding facility at Bung Si Fai, a large lake to the south of town.

Nakhon Sawan Is where four waterways join to form the Chao Phraya River, the most important waterway in the country. At Tambon Pak Nam Pho you can see the the reddish coloured waters of the Nan River merge with the greenish Ping River. This province has the largest freshwater swamp in the country called Bung Boraphet, which is famous for its resident and migratory bird life.

Wat Tham Bo Ya is at an interesting cave complex which has a large Buddha image in the first section, a sacred pond in the second and many beautiful stalagmites and stalactites.

Uthai Thani combines lowland rice growing plains with mountains in the western region. There are two large national parks at Huai Kha Khaeng, which merges with Thung Yai Naresuan Sanctuary, to create the largest wildlife reserve in Thailand. The lifestyle of the people has always been linked to water. This is best seen at the raft communities living on the Sakae Krang River.

Chai Nat has a major role in controlling the water flow on the Central Plains as it is where the Chao Phraya Dam was built in 1956. During the monsoon season, the water beneath the sluice gates is a popular fishing spot for the local people. The Chai Nat Bird Sanctuary has large cages where more that 100 species of birds are on show. Wat Phra Borommathat is the oldest Temple in the province with a pagoda housing Buddha relics.

Sing Buri is famous for the village of Bang Rachan whose residents performed heroic deeds in fighting an invading Burmese army in 1765. The most complete set of Nang Yai shadow play pieces in Thailand is at Wat Sawang Arom which is a centre for Buddha image sculpturing. Sing Buri is also famous for its abundance of freshwater fish that can be enjoyed at the many specialty restaurants.

Lop Buri has many monuments in the Khmer and Hindu styles as it was part of the Khmer Kingdom from the 10th to 13th centuries. Wat Phra Si Mahathat is a good example of the Khmer style, while Phra Prang Sam Yot with its three prangs shows the Hindu influence. The magnificent Narai Ratchaniwet Palace was built for King Narai in late 17th century when he used Lop Buri as an alternative capital to Ayutthaya. No visit to Lop Buri is complete without seeing the many monkeys at the Brahman San Phra Kan shrine.

Saraburi is home to the most visited national park at Khao Sam Lan. Wat Phra Buddha Bat houses Thailand’s most important Buddha footprint inside a beautiful Mondop decorated with thousands of glass pieces. Saraburi is a major centre for cattle rearing particularly in the Muak Lek district. Consequently, there are many fine steak houses that are popular with travellers on their way to the North East.

Angthong is a small province astride the Chao Phraya River noted for having many Temples. Wat Chaiyo Worawihan has a large seated Buddha and a collection of sacred amulets. The province is famous for its handicrafts such as drums made in Bang Phae and miniature dolls made under a Royal Project set up by Her Majesty The Queen at Bang Sadet.

Ayutthaya is a World Heritage Site that was the capital of Siam from the 1350 to 1758. The most photographed site is the row of three giant chedis at Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Other major attractions are Chantarakasem Palace, the National Museum, Wat Raja Burana and the home of Khun Pan, a legendary figure in Thai literature. Tourists can travel through the World Heritage site on traditionally adorned elephants. Closer to Bangkok is the Royal Summer Palace at Bang Pa In and the Royal Arts and Crafts Centre.

Pathum Thani has three interesting Temples. Wat Hong Pathummawat has a large fish sanctuary and Wat Pailom is one of the world’s largest sanctuaries for the Indian open-billed storks, which spend the winter there for mating. Wat Sing was built by the Mon community and has an attached museum of Mon artifacts. Thailand’s largest fresh produce wholesale market, Talad Thai, is also in this province

Nonthaburi straddles both sides of the Chao Phraya River on the northern outskirts of Bangkok. Express boats travel from downtown Bangkok to the Nonthaburi pier. Wat Chalerm Phra Kiat is a royal Temple constructed from bricks, which formed an earlier fortress. From Nonthaburi pier, boats take visitors to Ko Kret, a small island settled by Mons who are noted for their pottery. The province has fertile soil that is ideal for growing fl owers and fruits, particularly durian, mangosteen and mangoes.

Suphan Buri is mentioned in ancient Buddhist chronicles as Suwanaphum. Its history is closely linked to that of adjoining Ayutthaya. Don Chedi commemorates King Naresuan’s victory over his Burmese counterpart in a battle on elephants. The largest cast metal Buddha in the world, at Wat Phai Rong Wua, is 26 meters tall.

Kanchanaburi has a long border with Myanmar and is a province of many national parks with spectacular waterfall such as Erawan. It is the location of the infamous Bridge on The River Kwai, built during the Second World War. Today trains take visitors on the“Death Railway” on a journey through Hellfire Pass. There are two well-kept cemeteries for the estimated 16,000 Prisoners of War who worked and died there. Prasat Muang Singh, where the stone ruins have been renovated, was once part of the Khmer kingdom

Ratchaburi is the location for one of Thailand’s most visual images, the floating market at Damnoem Saduak where local villagers ply their fresh fruit and handicrafts from small boats. This province is also famous for its water jars that are exported to many European and North American countries. The Mon influence can be seen at Wat Khongkharam. Wat Khao Wang was originally built as a palace for King Chulalongkorn.

Nakhon Pathom has another striking visual symbol of Thailand, the golden Phra Pathom Chedi which towers 127 metres above the landscape. Built in the 10th century by Mons, it is the most venerated Buddhist monument in Thailand. Nearby is the Sanam Chan Palace, built for King Vajiravudh in the English Tudor style. The Rose Garden cultural center and resort and the Samphran Elephant Ground and Zoo are also in this province.

Samut Songkhram is the smallest province in Thailand noted for its salt farms that line both sides of the main highway. It has three floating markets including the one at Tha Kha, which is set in an open area surrounded by traditional wooden houses. Wat Satthatham has a beautiful teak building encrusted with mother of pearl. Villagers in Ban Bencharong produce traditional 5- coloured ceramics called bencharong in the traditional way. Bencharong is also made in neighbouring Samut Sakhon province.

Samut Sakhon is a major fishing port at the mouth of the Tha Chin River. The market is one of Thailand’s largest trading centers for fresh seafood. Wat Ratsatthakaram is home to thousands of birds that live in the bushes there. There is a collection of old cannons from Wichian Chodok Fortress in front of the city pillar.

Petchaburi is an ancient province that has been influenced by Mons, Khmer and the Ayutthaya Kingdom which is reflected in the architecture of various Temples such as Wat Yai Suwannaram in the Ayutthaya style. Phra Nakhon Khiri is a beautilully restored summer palace on top of a hill overlooking the town. The beach resort at Cha-am is very popular with Bangkok residents. The Kaeng Krachan National Park covers mountainous areas all the way to the Myanmar border.

Prachuap Khiri Khan is famous for Hua Hin which is Thailand’s first beach resort. The Royal Family has a summer palace there, called Klai Kangwon. Despite major development as a tourist resort, Hua Hin still maintains its old world charm. South of Hua Hin is one of the country’s best national parks at Khao Sam Roi Yot which combines quiet beaches, wetlands teeming with exotic birdlife and soaring peaks. Thalu Island, at the southern tip of the province, is a popular diving spot.

Samut Prakan lies between Bangkok and the mouth of the Chao Phraya River. The major tourist attraction is The Ancient City, a magnificent park where there are scaled down versions of the major Temples and other historical buildings representing every province of Thailand. Nearby is the world-renown Crocodile Farm which has more that 30,000 of these reptiles.

Chachongsao is bisected by the Bang Pakong River. On its banks stands one of Thailand’s most important Temples. Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan houses Phra Buddha Sothon, one of the most revered Buddha images in Thailand. Near Khao Hin Son, a spectacular hill of white rocks, there is a royal-sponsored agricultural research center. The province is a major livestock and aquaculture breeding center.

Nakhon Nayok is the southern approach to Khao Yai National Park. It is a province famed for its waterfalls, visited by Bangkokians for day trips. The two most popular are Sarika and Nang Rong. Canoeing is popular on the Nakhon Nayok River. The Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy offers visitors a variety of soft adventures.

Prachin Buri is another province bordering Khao Yai National Park. It is home to many ruins from the Dvarati and Khmer periods. There is an unusual Temple combining Thai and Greek architectural styles called Wat Kaeo Phichit. A two-storey European style building built for King Rama V is now used as a study center for traditional Thai medicine and medicinal plants.

Sa Kaew has the major border crossing to Cambodia at Aranyaprathet. The market located beside the Immigration and Customs posts is a major center for cross-border trade. There are many ruins from the Khmer period including Prasat Khao Noi. There is also a verdant national park at Pang Sida.

Chonburi is probably the most popular tourism province in the country. It encompasses Pattaya, famous for its beaches, off-shore islands and many resorts, Bang Saen Beach, which is more popular with Thai families, and Si Chang Island off Si Racha where there is a more laid back lifestyle. There are many man-made tourist attractions including Khao Kieo Open Zoo, Si Racha Tiger Zoo and Suan Nong Nooch Village which stages daily cultural and elephant shows.

Rayong is famous for Thailand’s most famous poet, Sunthorn Phu. On his way back from Bangkok he visited Samet Island and was so impressed by the white sand, he renamed it Ko Kao Pisadan which means “Crystal Beach”. The province is fast becoming the “Detroit of The East” due to the industrialization, particularly in automotive assembly plants. However it is still a major area of orchards producing succulent pomelo, rambutan, durian and jackfruit.

Chanthaburi is a major center for gemstones, with trading in sapphires and rubies taking place on Chan Road. The province was briefly occupied by the French in the early 20th century whose influence can be seen in the largest Catholic Cathedral in Thailand. Attractions, apart from the beautiful beaches include Oasis Sea World, Chamsom Crocodile Farm and Zoo and the Underwater Archaeological Museum at Khai Noen Wang where treasures recovered from ancient shipwrecks are on display.

Trat also has a lively gem trading scene and borders Cambodia. There is a border crossing at Had Lek near Klong Yai. This province is destined to become well-known on the tourist circuit due to the many undeveloped islands. The government has drawn up a master plan to ensure that Chang and the neighboring islands are made accessible for tourists while maintaining their pristine beauty.

Nong Khai is bounded by the Mekong River. It is the land route to Laos now that the Friendship Bridge ha replaced the boat traffic that used to leave from Tha Sadet. There is a lively market on the riverside. During the dry season when the water level recedes, Phra That Nong Khai, an old chedi that slipped into the river can be seen. Wat Pho Chai has a large seated Buddha that is believed to have been cast in Lan Chang. You can see amazing sculptures of Buddha and Shiva, Vishnu and other figures from Hindu and Thai culture at Sala Kaew Ku.

Udon Thani was settled at least 4,000 years ago as evident by the discovery of pots and other items unearthed at Ban Chiang. This is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a National Museum showing exhibits from the excavations. Phu Phra Bat Historical Park has unusual rocks, caves and pre-historic cliff paintings.

Loei is most famous for the bell-shaped mountain Phu Kradung, which is a national park. The large plateau on the top at 1,300 meters above sea level has an abundance of flora and fauna. The 6 kilometer trek to the top usually takes about 4 to 5 hours. Phu Rua National Park is another mountain with spectacular scenery and from the summit, you can see Laos and the Mekong River. At Dan Sai, there is an anuual festival called Phi Ta Khon where villagers wear outlandish costumes.

Nongbua Lamphu was part of Udon Thani province until 1993. The huge Erawan Cave has beautiful stalagmites and stalactites. At the entrance to the main cavern there is a large Buddha. Kudkormuey and Kudkwangsoi villages are interesting archaeological sites. Wat Tham Klong Phen is revered as the home of Luang Phu Khao Analayo, a famous meditation monk. The lake formed by the Ubon Ratana Dam is a popular fishing spot.

Sakon Nakhon is a province of lakes including Nong Han Lake, which is Thailand’s largest natural lake. Wat Phra That Choeng Chum is one of the North East’s most sacred spots. The main chedi was built over a 10th century Khymer prang. Thailand’s largest milestone is in a beautiful park beside the road through Phu Phan National Park on the way to Kalasin.

Nakhon Phanom is another province bordered by the Mekong River. There are many riverside restaurants that are good viewing spots of the river traffic crossing to southern Laos. The riverside promenade has many shops selling silver and handicrafts from Laos. Due to its proximity to Laos, there are many Lao style Temples with four-sided chedis. Phra That Phanom, 50 kilometers from town, has a 52-meter high Laotian-style tower said to contain a breastbone of Lord Buddha.

Mukdahan is on the Mekong River opposite Sawannakhet in Laos. Wat Si Mongkhon Tai next to the river houses the town’s oldest and most revered Buddha image. The Indochina Market offers a wide variety of goods from both sides of the Mekong. The province has the Mukdahan National Park which has caves and unusual rock formations. Prehistoric paintings can be found on Phu Pha Thoep which also has beautiful wild flowers.

Kalasin was definitely roamed by dinosaurs as their remains have been found at Wat Sakkawan and Phu Kum Khao. There is a large zoo with modern day animals beside Lam Pao Dam. Muang Fa Daet Song Yang is an ancient town which has Phra That Ya Khu, a large stupa decorated with stucco reliefs and carved sandstone boundary markers depicting the life of Lord Buddha.

Khon Kaen is the commercial, administrative and educational center of the North East. The Kaen Nakhon Lake in the center of town is a popular spot for picnics and dining. Wat That on its bank features typical Isan spires. Chonnabot village is famous for its high quality silk in the “Mudmee” design. It is also a province with dinosaur remains, which were discovered in Phu Wiang National Park

Roi-et town is built around Bung Phlan Chai, a large manmade lake. In the center there is a large walking Buddha on an island. There is also a 68-metre walking Buddha at Wat Buraphaphiram. Ku Kasing, 60 kilometres outside of town is a large Khymer sanctuary dating from the 11th century. Provincial handicrafts include the wood-wind Isan Khaen, best made in Si Kaew village.

Maha Sarakham the heart of the Northeast has the Isan Cultural and Arts Centre, displaying its history, various fabrics, handicrafts and agricultural traditions. Relics over 700 years old have been found at Ku Mahathat archaeological site. River rafting is becoming popular at the Loeng Chan Rapids.

Chaiyaphum is in the geographical center of Thailand. This hilly province is famous for its silk. The whole process from feeding the silk worms through to the dyeing and weaving of thread can be seen at villages such as Ban Khwao. There is an ancient Khmer shrine called Phrang Ku, housing a revered Buddha. Pa Hin Ngam National Park is famous for its pink “krachiew” fl owers that bloom from May to July.

Buri Ram was an integral part of the Khmer Kingdom so there are more than 140 sites of Khmer ruins. The most famous is Prasat Hin Phanom Rung perched on top of an extinct volcano built between the 10th and 13th centuries. Pre-dating this is Muang Tam, a walled in Khmer sanctuary.

Surin is famous for its annual Elephant Round-up held in the third week of November. As this province also borders Cambodia, it has many Khymer ruins including Sikhoraphum. There are three ruins in good condition at Ta Muan near the border. Ban Buthon village produces rattan basketry while Ban Khwao is famous for silk weaving.

Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as Korat, is the gateway to the Northeast is the site of another beautifully restore historical park at Phimai. This Khmer site has a tall tower surrounded by four porches and anti-chambers. Another historical site is at Ban Prasat where skeletons, artifacts and pottery dating back 3,500 years have been found. Among its natural attractions are Khao Yai National Park that has an enormous variety of animals, birds and plants. Dan Kwian is a village where unique pottery is made from the clay in the area.

Yasothon is Thailand’s rocket center as this where the famous Rocket Festival is held every May. The giant home-made rockets are launched as a symbolic rain-making gesture. There are both Lao and Khmer influences reflected in the Lao-style chedi at Wat Mahathat and the Khmer chedi at That Kong Noi. The popular triangular Thai pillows originate in the village of Ban Si Than.

Amnat Chareon is known as “The Land of Dharma” as Temples are its main attraction. Phra Mongkhon Ming Muang has a giant Buddha set in its scenic Buddha Uttayan Park. There is a Vientiane-style bronze Buddha at Wat Chaiyatikaramit. The late Phra Acharn Cha presided over meditation at Wat Tham Saeng Phetch where there is a large Buddha inside a cave.

Ubon Ratchathani has a National Museum displaying Thai and Khmer artifacts and localhandicrafts. Wat Tung Sri Muang is its most noted Temple housing a Buddha footprint, an old wooden library and erotic wall paintings. Wat Nong Bua is the only Temple in Thailand with a Buddha gaya-style pyramidal stupa. There are two national parks, Kaeng Tana and Phataem.

Si Sa Ket is the entry point to one of the grandest Angkorperiod sites, Khao Phra Wihan. The main sanctuary is in Cambodia but the easiest access is in Thailand. Other noteable Khmer sanctuaries are at Wat Sa Khamphaen Yai and Noi. These date back to the 10th century.

Chumphon has a coastline of 220 kilometers, offering many fine sandy beaches and islands. The most popular beach is Sai Ri which has many seafood restaurants and a small museum honouring Prince Chumphon, the founder of The Royal Thai Navy. Samet, Mattra and Ngam Noi islands are relatively undiscovered marine paradises. The hinterland is mountainous with verdant forests such as Khlong Phrao National Park.

Ranong is a mountainous and heavily forested province on the Myanmar border. The main town is an active fishing and trading port where colourful longboats ply back and forth across the narrow divide between Ranong and Victoria Point. There are hot springs just outside of the town where visitors benefit from the medicinal properties of the mineral waters. The province has one of the heaviest annual rainfalls in the country, which probably accounts for its lush greenery and waterfalls.

Surat Thani is the largest of the southern provinces and was once part of the Srivijaya Empire. This can be seen at Phra Boromthat Chaiya which has authentic Srivijaya architecture. Its 1,200 year-old chedi contains relics of Lord Buddha. Nowadays, Surat Thani is best known for its islands of Samui Pha-ngan and Tao. Vehicular and passenger ferries depart Don Sak for these islands. The province is also well-known for its coconuts and the trained monkeys used to harvest them. Khao Sok National Park in the hinterland is popular for eco-tourism.

Nakhon Si Thammarat was also once part of the Srivijaya kingdom. The town is dotted with historical sites including an almost intact city wall from the 13th century and various Brahman shrines and old Temples. The western region is mountainous with the highest peak in southern Thailand in Khao Luang National Park. There is an agro-tourism village at Khiriwong where you can also hire guides for trekking in the national park to see the fascinating scenery.

Trang is a scuba diver’s paradise with many islands in marine national parks. Kradan Island has powdery white beaches and excellent coral reefs. Muk Island has Emerald Cave which is entered from the water and has an immense cavern open to the sky. Trang is becoming world-famous for its underwater wedding ceremonies sponsored by the provincial authorities. Two popular attractions are Khlong Lamchan Waterfowl Park and Khao Chong Wildlife Education Centre.

Phatthalung is a province of limestone mountains and caves. The town is dominated by Ok Thalu and Hua Taek, two unusual limestone formations, that depict the injuries suffered by two women fighting over their lover. Wat Kuhasawan sits at the foot of a large limestone peak where there are interlinked caves containing votive tablets dating back to the 8th century. The province’s most famous attraction is Thale Noi Waterfowl Sanctuary, an extension of Songkhla Lake.

Phang-nga Bay National Park is a geological wonder filled wit islets, sunken cavern and formations rising out of the sea such as Khao Ping Kan made famous in a James Bond movie. There is a Chao Lay or “Sea Gypsy” village on stilts called Panyi. Rare swimming iguanas habit Khao Khien. Khao Lak, on the Andaman coast, is a park full of wildlife and scenic waterfalls.

Phuket is Thailand’s most visited island as it is Asia’s premier holiday resort. The best beaches face the Andaman Sea, with Patong, Karon and Kata being the most popular. Phuket is the main departure point for the Phi Phi, Surin and Similan islands. Due to the superb marine environment, Phuket is now a very popular venue for yachting. The town has architectural influence of Chinese, Portuguese and Malaysian that reflect its history. Man-made attractions include Phuket Fantasea theme park, the Seashell Museum, Phuket Abalone Farm and rides on the Pakarang semi-submarine.

Krabi has emerged as an “in” spot for beach and island holidays. Facing the Andaman Sea, it has many fine white sandy beaches with limestone cliffs as backdrops. The limestone cliffs have given birth to Thailand’s recreational climbing activities. The most popular beaches are Ao Nang and Railay. Nopparat Thara Beach, lined with pine trees, is preferred by Thai tourists. Sea canoe expeditions to Poda, Rang Nok and Hua Kwan are another attraction. The Phi Phi islands associated with Phuket are actually in this province. The Lanta Islands to the south are gaining international recognition for their unspoilt beaches.

Pattani has a majority Muslim population so there are many decorative mosques. The Pattani Central Mosque is the largest in Thailand. The economy revolves around fishing and handicrafts including batik, artificial flowers, wood carvings and wickerwork.

Narathiwat borders Malaysia at Sungai Kolok which is also the end of the 1,215 kilometre railway line from Bangkok. It has many unspoilt beaches to the north of the main town. The inland is quite mountainous. Budo-Sungai Padi Mountain National Park has the towering Bacho waterfall.

Yala is Thailand’s most southern province. Its cultural diversity is evident with many mosques and Buddhist Temples. Wat Khuha Phimuk is in front of a limestone cave complex and has a large reclining Buddha from the 8th century. It is also home to the Sakai, descendants of the original people of the Malay Peninsula. They are settled at Ban Sakai. Bentong, “The Town in The Mist” has hot springs and the world’s tallest letterbox.

Songkhla is the major commercial center of Southern Thailand. There are two major border crossings to Malaysia at Sadao and Sungai Besar. The Samial Beach, the first beach resort in the south, is guarded by a brass mermaid, the symbol of Songkhla. The business heart is Had Yai which is a popular shopping and entertainment destination for Malaysian and Singaporean tourists. Songkhla Lake is Thailand’s largest inland body of water. At the northern end is Khu Khut Waterfowl Park which has a wide variety of birdlife.

Satun also borders Malaysia. From Satun Port you can catch ferries to Malaysia’s Langkawi Island. Ferries also run from Ban Pak Bara to Tarutao Island which is a National Park. Other islands in the area are the Adang and Rawi group. Turatao Island has an abundance of wildlife including monkeys, turtles, dolphins and dugong.