Last updated on May 29th, 2025 at 02:10 pm
When it comes to the best places in Thailand, most travelers think of Koh Samui, Phuket, or Chiang Mai. But after eight visits to the Land of Smiles, we’ve uncovered a different side of the country – hidden gems in Thailand that few people know about.
These unique Thailand attractions include secluded paradise beaches, caves of human resilience, a mega-city oasis, and many beautiful temples – and we are excited to share with you some of these lesser-known destinations in Thailand that still remain untouched by mass tourism.
And the best part? Every single one of these amazing spots is completely free to visit.
If you’re crafting your dream itinerary, don’t miss out on these secret treasures. They’re spread across the country, making them perfect additions to your ultimate 3-week Thailand adventure. Trust us – they’re some of the best places in Thailand you’ll ever explore.
1. Best Places in Thailand: Wat Ban Tham – A Temple Through a Dragon
First on our list of Thailand hidden gems is the unforgettable Wat Ban Tham – a truly unique and fun temple experience that you won’t want to miss.
Often referred to as the Temple of the Golden Dragon, Wat Ban Tham is one of the most unique temples in Thailand. What makes it so special? To reach the temple, you’ll climb a staircase that leads straight into the jaws of a massive dragon – yes, you read that correctly!
Once inside, you’ll venture THROUGH the dragon before emerging into the open air, where a short but scenic hike rewards you with stunning 360-degree views over the Mae Klong River.
Throw in an optional cave shrine exploration near the top for good measure – in case this wasn’t fun enough. Talk about Thailand hidden gems!
If you’re looking for the best places in Thailand that are still off the tourist radar, Wat Ban Tham in Kanchanaburi should be at the top of your list. It’s a true hidden gem in Thailand – combining natural beauty, cultural intrigue, …..and well, a colorful dragon.
Be honest, when is the last time you walked through a dragon?!
Where is Wat Ban Tham located?
Wat Ban Tham is located 15 kilometers from downtown Kanchanaburi, Western Thailand.
How Do I Get to Wat Ban Tham?
As mentioned above, Wat Ban Tham is located in Kanchanaburi Province, about 2 to 3 hours from Bangkok, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from Bangkok.
If you’re looking to explore one of the most unique and lesser-known temples in Thailand, here’s how to get there:
Minivan from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi: Minivans are a convenient and fast option, with direct services from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi. If you’re traveling with a group, this can be one of the most cost-effective ways to reach Kanchanaburi.
Join a Guided Tour: Many visitors choose to book a customized tour from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi – customize your own Kanchanaburi tour from Bangkok so you can see the places you want to visit at your own time and pace.
Check out all the best things to do in Kanchanaburi so you can start planning your customized tour today!
Rent a car: Renting a car in Thailand is one of the best ways to get to Kanchanaburi and explore Thailand’s hidden gems at your own pace, offering both comfort and travel flexibility.
Once you arrive in Kanchanaburi, there is no direct public transportation to Wat Ban Tham, however, there are a couple of easy and affordable options for getting there:
Hire a songthaew or tuk-tuk: From Kanchanaburi town, you can hire a local tuk-tuk or songthaew to reach Wat Ban Tham. Expect to pay around 700 THB for a round-trip fare. This is a convenient option if you’re not comfortable driving yourself.
Rent a scooter in Kanchanaburi: One of the most popular ways to explore hidden gems in Thailand is by scooter – our chosen mode of transport in Thailand! It’s affordable and gives you the freedom to visit multiple attractions in a single day. Daily scooter rental in Kanchanaburi typically costs between 200–250 THB.
*When driving a motorbike/scooter in Thailand always drive to the conditions of the road and ALWAYS wear a helmet.
Just in case, here’s our recommendation for top-rated travel insurance for Thailand:
Thailand Travel Tip – Even with the luck of the Irish, things can still go wrong. World Nomads Travel Insurance is our top choice for travel coverage. With the best transparent fine print in the industry, it’s no wonder they’re ranked number one. Don’t let your Thailand adventures turn to mishaps and get a free quote today!
What Should I Bring to Wat Ban Tham?
Wat Ban Tham is one of the most unique temples in Thailand, combining religious significance with a bit of adventure.
Since you’ll be climbing stairs, walking through a cave, and hiking to a viewpoint, it’s important to come prepared.
Here’s what to bring:
Sarong or Shawl: While Wat Ban Tham is fun to visit, it remains a sacred religious site. Female visitors should carry a light sarong or shawl to cover their shoulders and knees when entering the temple cave. This is the standard dress code at temples across Thailand and helps you show respect while exploring cultural landmarks.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: To the top of Wat Ban Tham is a short but strenuous hike with many steps involved. This trek will take 30 minutes depending on your fitness and we think comfortable shoes will make it that little bit easier!
Water: If this is your first time in Thailand, here’s your friendly heads-up: Thailand is hot – and humid! Welcome to looking and feeling like a sweaty mess 24/7! Combine that tropical heat with a steep stair climb, and well… even though it’s a short hike, you’ll be sweating your arse off! Trust us, by the time you reach the top of Wat Ban Tham, you’ll be glad you packed plenty of water. *Ideally a reusable water bottle!
Sunscreen and Hat: If you’re visiting during the day, parts of the path are exposed. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses – seeing as we are from Ireland, this is just a given!
Small Flashlight or Phone Light: The cave shrine section can be dim, so a small flashlight or your phone’s torch may come in handy.
Camera or Smartphone: You’ll want to capture Wat Ban Tham’s 360-degree views over the Mae Klong River once you reach the top
It’ll be worth it to witness the best views of Kanchanaburi!
2. Best Places in Thailand: Lumphini Park – Bangkok’s Green Oasis
Thailand is our favourite country, Bangkok is our favourite city and Lumphini is our favourite park!
If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit in Thailand that offers a break from Bangkok’s wonderful chaos, look no further than Lumphini Park. Often overlooked by tourists who head straight for the famous pub-filled Koh San Road, this lush urban oasis is one of Bangkok’s hidden gems.
Here are some highlights and activities that make Lumphini Park worth visiting:
Green Oasis: Lumphini Park provides a serene and green environment where visitors can relax, escape the urban hustle and get into some serious people-watching!
Paddle Boats: Lumphini Park’s central lake offers paddle boats and swan boats for rent – a unique experience allowing you to float peacefully amid nature while surrounded by the striking skyline of Bangkok, one of Asia’s most popular cities. It’s a surreal and memorable way to experience the quieter side of the Thai capital.
Fitness and Exercise: Lumphini Park is the perfect place in Bangkok for cycling, jogging, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. Come in the early morning or evening and you’ll find groups doing aerobics, yoga, or Tai Ch. The number of people exercising in Lumphini Park is truly spectacular – it even got us joining in for our daily runs!
Giant Monitor Lizards: One of the park’s most surprising features? It’s giant monitor lizards! Lumphini Park is known for its resident monitor lizards and they are HUGE. While they are generally harmless, it’s interesting to observe them in their natural habitat…..in the middle of Bangkok!
Cultural Highlights: Lumphini Park features the King Rama VI statue at its entrance, along with various sculptures and monuments scattered throughout. It’s a great place to soak up a bit of Thai culture without the crowds.
Occasional Events and Festivals: Lumphini Park also hosts seasonal events and festivals, especially during Thai holidays. These are fantastic opportunities to experience local culture, music, and food in a truly authentic community-focused setting.
Make the most of your Thailand itinerary by timing your trip with one of the country’s vibrant cultural celebrations – check out our guide to the Best Thai Festivals and start planning your unforgettable journey today.
Whether you’re after fitness, nature, people-watching, or a peaceful escape, Lumphini Park offers a unique experience that feels worlds away from the typical tourist trail in Bangkok. It’s an ideal addition to any Bangkok itinerary – especially for travelers seeking hidden gems in Thailand that locals love.
Lumphini Park is just a pretty cool place to hang out – go see for yourself and you will know what we are talking about!
Where is Lumphni Park Located?
Lumphini Park is located in the heart of Bangkok. It is situated in the Pathum Wan district, near the Silom and Sukhumvit areas.
How Do I Get to Lumphini Park?
Lumphini Park is centrally located in Bangkok so it is very it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
Visitors can use public transportation, such as the Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) or the Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) to reach the park, or they can opt for taxis, GRAB, or other forms of local transportation (tuk-tuks).
If you want to get to Lumphini Park by MRT (Subway), take the MRT to Lumphini Station and use Exit 3 for direct access to the park. Alternatively, get off at Si Lom Station (Exit 1); it’s a short walk from there.
If you want to get to Lumphini Park by BTS Skytrain, take the BTS Silom Line to Sala Daeng Station, then walk about 10 minutes to the park.
If traveling by Taxi or Tuk-Tuk, simply tell the driver you want to go to “Lumphini Park.” It’s a well-known landmark in Bangkok so they’ll know where to go!
Lastly, if you’re staying in a Bangkok hotel nearby, walking is an option. For example, it’s about a 20-minute walk from Sukhumvit Soi 22
What Should I Bring to Lumphini Park?
If you’re planning to visit Lumphini Park, one of the best green spaces and hidden gems in Bangkok, it’s good to come prepared. Here’s a list of what to bring for a comfortable and enjoyable visit:
Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a fair bit of walking, so sneakers or supportive sandals are ideal – especially if you plan to explore the full park or join in on group fitness activities. We highly recommend joining in with one of the group fitness activities, you will be warmly welcomed – when in Thailand and all that!
Reusable water bottle: Remember our warning about Thailand’s humidity from above?! Well, Bangkok is no exception! It is hot and humid, and staying hydrated is essential. Many areas in the park are exposed to sun, so always bring water with you.
Sunscreen and hat: For protection from the midday sun, especially if you’re visiting between 10 AM and 4 PM. And of course, sunglasses are always essential!
Lightweight clothing: Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothes. Lumphini Park is casual, and you’ll want to stay cool while walking or relaxing.
Picnic mat or blanket: If you’re planning to sit and relax under the trees in Lumphini Park, a lightweight mat or blanket can make it more comfortable – it’s all about the comfort!
Camera or smartphone: From paddle boats to monitor lizards and skyline views, Lumphini Park offers plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Bug spray or mosquito repellent: Especially useful if you’re visiting Lumphini Park in the late afternoon or early evening.
Cash: For small snacks or drinks from vendors near Lumphini Park – not all accept cards.
Most importantly, bring a smile to greet all the wonderful locals you will encounter in this beautiful Bangkok oasis.
While spending time in the Thai capital, check out the top day trips from Bangkok to experience the best of Thailand.
3. Best Places in Thailand: Wat Tham Sua – A Temple Framed by Nature
Wat Tham Sua is a Buddhist temple, also known as The Tiger Cave Temple, which can be easily called one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand, and hands-down, the most beautiful temple in Kanchanaburi province.
Wat Tham Sua is famous for its multi-level architecture, featuring a 157-step staircase adorned with decorative nagas (mythical serpent-like creatures), leading to the hilltop Buddha statue, which stands 18 meters tall and 10 meters wide. Visitors can also explore a seven-story pagoda and the Tiger Cave, which contains shrines and tiger figurines – sounds like a pretty impressive Thailand temple right!?
One of the most special things about this Tiger Cave Temple Complex is the vastness of its location. Elevated with the most magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding rice fields, majestic mountains, and nearby temples.
You can climb to the very top of one of the pagodas, from where you can get an even better view of the vast surroundings, as well as, the neighboring Chinese temple.
Important to note: Wat Tham Sua in Kanchanaburi has the same name as Wat Tham Suea in Krabi, so don’t get confused. Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi is one of the toughest temple hikes we have ever done so be sure not to get these mixed up!
Where is Wat Tham Sua Located?
Wat Tham Sua is 15 kilometers from the town of Kanchanaburi. Yes, this means we have another entry from the stunning province of Kanchanaburi!
For even more amazing places to visit in Kanchanaburi, including the most beautiful waterfall in Asia, make sure to check out our ultimate guide to Kanchanaburi.
How Do I Get to Wat Tham Sua?
We are presuming you know how to get to Kanchanaburi already from number 1 on the list! Therefore, we will skip straight to how to get to The Tiger Cave Temple/Wat Tham Sua.
Similar to Wat Ban Tham (number 1 on the list), public transport does not go to The Tiger Cave Temple, so you can only get there by taxi or rented transport.
Hire a songthaew or tuk-tuk: From Kanchanaburi town, you can hire a local tuk-tuk or songthaew to reach Wat Tham Suea. Expect to pay around 800 THB for a round-trip fare.
Rent a scooter in Kanchanaburi: As mentioned above, daily scooter rental in Kanchanaburi typically costs between 200–250 THB.
Top-rated Wat Tham Sua Tours:
- From Bangkok: Death Railway, River Kwai & Wat Tham Sua – experience the best of Kanchanaburi, including Wat Tham Suea, on this day trip from Bangkok.
- From Kanchanaburi: Soak up Thailand’s history with this popular Kanchanaburi Day Tour and visit the Hollywood-famous Bridge Over The River Kwai, as well as, the Tiger Cave Temple.
What Should I Bring to Wat Tham Suea?
Similar to Wat Ban Tham above, females should bring a light shawl/sarong to cover their shoulders and therefore, show their respect whilst visiting this religious site.
Wat Ban Tham is free to visit, but like many temples in Thailand, a small donation is appreciated – so it’s a good idea to carry some small change with you.
As with most points in this guide to the Best Places in Thailand – just be comfortable with light clothing and sturdy walking shoes, stay hydrated, and protect yourself from the sun.
Enjoy the most beautiful temple in Thailand!
4. Best Places in Thailand: Klong Nin Beach – Thailand’s Best Sunset Spot
As we write this, we’re soaking up island life on Klong Nin Beach, located on the beautiful Thai island of Koh Lanta. This marks our fourth month here in the past year – and for good reason.
To hook you in immediately, we are going to say it: Klong Nin Beach is the best place in Thailand to watch the sunset. Bold claim? Maybe. But after months of exploring the country’s coastline, we’re standing by it!
Koh Lanta is one of Thailand’s lesser-visited islands, and even more so, Klong Nin Beach is even less visited again – a true hidden gem and hands down one of the best places in Thailand if you’re looking for a chilled island vibe.
While most tourists stay near Saladan Village (close to the ferry port), just a short 20-minute drive will bring you to what feels like your own private slice of paradise – Klong Nin Beach.
If you like less crowds, chill vibes, perfect sunsets, affordable luxury accommodation, welcoming local communities, and the best authentic Thai food, Klong Nin Beach is the place for you.
It is definitely the place for us – this is our kind of Thailand hidden gem.
If you are still not convinced, you can read all about why we think Koh Lanta is the Best Island in Thailand.
We’re currently enjoying life in Thailand for just €31 per day – for two people!! That daily budget covers everything: a stunning pool-view villa, all our meals, drinks, snacks, and more. And yes, we’re traveling during Thailand’s peak season – January/February.
When we last visited in November, our costs were even lower. If you’re searching for an affordable travel destination that offers exceptional value, Thailand is one of the best budget-friendly countries in the world!!
One of the best things about Klong Nin Beach in Koh Lanta? You won’t find high-rise apartment-style resorts here as all the ” Klong Nin Beach resorts” blend into the natural tropical surroundings so that you barely notice them – how wonderful does that sound!?
We love Koh Lanta so much that we just had to bring Kate’s parents there last year. Check out the video below for a small glimpse into how we spent our time on this paradise island in Thailand.
Where is Klong Nin Beach located?
We will start first with the location of Koh Lanta, an island district in the Krabi Province of Thailand, off the west coast of mainland Thailand.
Klong Nin Beach is on the western side of Koh Lanta Yai, which is the larger and more developed of the two main islands in the Koh Lanta district.
If island living suits you, make sure to find out which Thai island is best for you and next time consider a Thailand Island-Hopping trip.
Check out the top-rated day tours from Koh Lanta below and find the perfect one for you:
How Do I Get to Koh Lanta?
To reach Koh Lanta, the nearest major town, Krabi, has an airport (Krabi International Airport) that serves as a gateway for visitors to the region. From Krabi, you can then take a ferry or boat to Koh Lanta’s Saladan Pier. You can book your tickets easily online via 12go.
Once on the island, Klong Nin Beach is accessible by road. If you booked the hotel transfer option via 12go then you will be dropped at your hotel in Klong Nin Beach, if not, there will be local transport available.
*The fee from the Saladan Pier to Klong Nin Beach should be 200 TBH per person.
What Should I Bring to Koh Lanta?
Grab a pen and paper for this one because you are going to want to take note here: For your visit to Koh Lanta, you will need to bring swimwear and a strong arm for holding up those cocktails!
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the best island in Thailand!
5. Best Places in Thailand: Tham Luang Cave – A Hidden Gem with a Powerful Story
Lastly, one of the most compelling hidden gems in Thailand is Tham Luang Nang Non, a vast cave complex stretching over 10 kilometers in the northern province of Chiang Rai. Nestled inside a forest park near the border with Myanmar, this cave blends natural beauty, cultural depth, and a story that captured the world.
Tham Luang Cave gained international attention in 2018 when 12 members of the Wild Boars youth soccer team (aged 11 to 16) and their 25-year-old coach became trapped inside due to sudden flooding. After an intense 18-day international rescue operation, all 13 were brought out safely in a mission that gripped hearts across the globe.
Today, Tham Luang is fully open to visitors. A dedicated memorial site and visitor center now stand near the cave entrance, sharing insight into the cave’s geological formations, its cultural significance, and the extraordinary rescue effort that unfolded there.
Despite its fame, Tham Luang remains a surprisingly under-visited attraction in Thailand – making it a perfect stop for travelers exploring Northern Thailand beyond the usual tourist trail.
Whether you’re drawn by nature, history, or human resilience, this is one of the best places in Thailand for those craving both adventure and meaning.
And yes – it’s every bit as powerful in person as the books, documentaries, and Netflix series make it seem.
Tham Luang Cave has become a symbol of teamwork, international collaboration, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
If you’re intrigued by the incredible story behind Tham Luang Cave, check out our full article, where we dive deeper into this unique Thailand attraction. We also cover why it’s important to book your tour in advance to ensure you don’t miss the chance to explore this unforgettable site.
Where is Tham Luang Nang Non Cave Located?
Tham Luang Nang Non Cave is located in Tham Luang-Khun Nam Nang Non Forest Park in Chiang Rai Province, Northern Thailand, about 30 kilometers north of Chiang Rai City, near the border with Myanmar.
Visitor Tip: Due to the cave’s seasonal nature, it’s advisable to plan your visit to Tham Luang Cave during the dry months, typically from November to April, as the cave may be closed during the rainy season due to safety concerns – ah, fair enough!
How Do I Get to Tham Luang Nang Non Cave?
Whether you prefer traveling by car, bus, or scooter, we will help you navigate the best routes to reach Tham Luang Cave and discover one of Thailand’s most meaningful hidden gems.
Travel to Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai: With Tham Luang located in the northern part of Thailand, you can fly to either Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai, both of which are major cities in the region – both cities well worth exploring in their own right.
Local Transportation to Mae Sai: From Chiang Rai Bus Terminal, you can take a local bus or minivan to Mae Sai, the northernmost town in Thailand and the closest town to Tham Luang Cave. The journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a convenient option for budget travelers in Thailand.
Mae Sai to Tham Luang: From Mae Sai, you can easily arrange local transportation to reach Tham Luang Cave. Whether you hire a taxi or rent a scooter, it’s a quick and scenic 15–20 minute ride (about 6 km) to the cave entrance. This short trip gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Guided Tours: A good idea is to enquire with your accommodation if they arrange or have information on a trusted local tour guide.
Top-rated Luang Cave Tour:
From Chiang Rai: For a hassle-free experience, consider booking this popular private sightseeing tour that covers the top attractions in Chiang Rai, including a visit to the iconic Tham Luang Cave Complex.
What Should I Bring to Tham Luang Nang Non Cave?
Visiting Tham Luang Nang Non Cave is a mix of light adventure, cultural discovery, and outdoor exploration. While the main cave chamber is easy to access, the site is still part of a forest park, so it’s best to come prepared.
Here’s what to bring (you should know this by now!)
As with any Thailand day trip, always be prepared with comfortable clothing, sun protection, small change, water, and snacks!
We are big fans of always having snacks, read more about how we eat cheap around the world!
Enjoy All The Best Places in Thailand!
And there you have it – some of our favorite Thailand hidden gems you might not have heard of (let’s just agree not to all rush there at once… especially Koh Lanta!).
The goal of this article is simple – to inspire you to venture beyond the usual tourist hotspots and discover the countless other amazing places to visit in Thailand.
From quiet beaches to unforgettable caves and serene local parks, Thailand continues to surprise us. The list of the best places in Thailand truly goes on and on.
What’s your favorite of the Thailand hidden gems? Are we missing any that we need to add to the best places in Thailand?
We would love to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
Slán go fóil
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