Top 10 things to do in Thailand Part2 (10/10)

6. Festivals

Visitors are very welcome to join in local celebrations, and most festivals and events offer a unique insight into local customs and traditions. 


Songkran festival (Shutterstock)
Must see events include Loi Krathong in November, Songkran/Thai New Year water festival in April (read our Songkran guide here), and the Naga Fireballs in October – a natural phenomenon that occurs just once a year.

7. Floating markets

It's the iconic photo shot: the floating market, with rickety wooden boats piled high with colourful local produce. Pick a market, and arrive early to avoid crowds and bag the best bargains. Don’t forget your camera – these markets are very colourful. 


Amphawa floating market (Shutterstock)

Damnoen Saduak, Ratchaburi: The most famous of the floating markets, located 100km south-west of Bangkok en route to Hua Hin/Cha-am. 

Amphawa Floating Market, Samut Songkhram: Open in the afternoons and situated next to a temple. 

Taling Chan Weekend Floating Market, Bangkok: Only recently discovered by tourists, this market is entirely authentic and frequented by locals. Try a range of Thai fruits including custard apples, yellow longan and the pungent durian. 

8. Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi province, an area of lush forest and a haven for backpackers, has a dark past. Here, you'll also find the start of the infamous Death Railway (which links to Burma/Myanmar), and the bridge over the River Kwai. Both are haunting relics from WWII, constructed by prisoners of war. It's a chilling spot, but essential on any Thailand itinerary.


Death railway (Shutterstock)

Close by, you'll find the Tiger Temple, which has been the focus of some damning animal welfare reports. Consult other travellers for advice, and follow your conscience before booking. 

9. Ancient ruins and national parks

Thailand boasts diverse landscapes, and its national parks are renowned for their beauty and scale.  You'll also find UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and superb hiking and biking trails in plenty of spots. 


Prasat Hin Phimai Historical Park (Shutterstock)
Our favourite national parks include: Doi Inthanon National Park (home to Thailand’s highest peak); Khao Yai National Park (considered to be one of Asia’s largest monsoon forests and a UNESCO World Heritage Site); Sai Yok National Park (with several waterfalls, caves and rare animals to discover); Khao Sok National Park (considered the finest in southern Thailand).

Other natural highlights include:

Phimai Historical Park: With 12th-century Khmer ruins.

Phanom Rung Historical Park: Home to Ancient Khmer ruins, dating from the 12th century, constructed of sandstone.

Khao Sai Dao Waterfall: Visitors can explore a wildlife sanctuary, as well as an astonishing 16-level waterfall that flows year round.

Erawan Waterfall: It boasts seven tiers of waterfalls, each feeding freshwater pools you can swim in.

Thilosu Waterfall: Considered by many to be the most beautiful waterfall in South-East Asia.

10. Shop ’til you drop!

From street stalls to bustling markets, you can shop at every turn in Thailand. 
In Bangkok, try any of the following markets: Chatuchak (JJ Mall); Weekend Market (Sat/Sun), all day; Asiatique Night Market (riverside), open 4pm – midnight, seven days a week.


Chatuchak Market (Shutterstock)

In Northern Thailand, stroll the streets of Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, daily from 6pm; Wualai Walking Street Saturday Market, from 2pm.

There are a variety of shops and local markets throughout the north and north-east that specialise in local handicrafts, wooden carvings, silverware, silks, pottery and furniture. Korat and Khao Yao in Nakhon Ratchasima has a popular night market, too.

This article originally appeared on the Tourism Thailand blog – the official blog for tourists and travellers visiting Thailand. Find more tips, inspiration and advice online here.

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