Top 5 Off Beaten Path Highlights of Thailand
Welcome to Thailand’s hidden treasures, where the appeal of off-the-beaten-path locations reveals another side of this wonderful country. Beyond the well-trodden tourist pathways, let’s visit Lampang, often known as “Thailand’s Little Bhutan,” where antique temples and horse-drawn carriages transport you back in time. Visit Kanchanaburi, home of the renowned River Kwai, where history and nature meet. The bridge, a sad memory of World War II, is a symbol of endurance. Meanwhile, Sam Roi Yot National Park beckons with its gorgeous beaches, limestone peaks, and lively animals, providing a peaceful escape from the spotlight.
Discover the charm of Hill Tribe Villages in Chiang Mai, where old customs and gorgeous scenery create a rich tapestry of cultural variety. Engage with local communities to see a way of life that has been unaffected by the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. Join us on a journey through Thailand’s lesser-known beauties, each offering a distinct experience. From Lampang’s cultural immersion to Kanchanaburi’s historical echoes and the natural splendour of Sam Roi Yot, these off-the-beaten-path treasures entice visitors looking for the road less travelled in the Land of Smiles.
Here are some Off Beaten Path Highlights of Thailand.
1. Lampang and Thailand’s Little Bhutan
Lampang, one of Thailand’s oldest cities, is about a two-hour train ride southeast of Chiang Mai. Lampang dates back to the 7th century, and it is not uncommon to see inhabitants going around in ancient vehicles such as horse-drawn carriages known as rot daeng. There are various locations to visit in town, including local temples like Wat Phra That Lampang Luang and the historic pedestrian path Talad Gao Road, which passes by magnificent residences and open-air market booths. However, go out of the city and visit Lampang Province to truly see Thailand’s hidden gem. Hike up a slope in the hills north of the city to the temple of Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat. The mountain is studded with stupas, shrines, and flags, earning the region the name Little Bhutan. The views are fantastic.
2. Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai
You may have seen the Oscar-winning film The Bridge on the River Kwai without realizing that you can tour this location for yourself. Travel west of Bangkok to Kanchanaburi to see the river Kwai, which is filled with historical and natural treasures to discover. History aficionados and moviegoers will enjoy learning about the Thailand-Burma Railway, which was partly built by Allied POWs during World War II. The Hellfire Pass Museum, Thailand-Burma Railway Center Museum, and Memorial Walking Trail all commemorate the history of the so-called Death Railway. You can even see the bridge itself (sorry, movie enthusiasts, but it was never blown up as shown). But the River Kwai is not just for history buffs. The region is beautiful, with lush forests and canals to explore. You may even stay in a floating hotel over the river for a truly unique lodging experience.
3. Sam Roi Yot National Park
This coastal park, located 28 miles (45 kilometers) south of Hua Hin, was the first marine national park in the country. Its name translates to “Three Hundred Peaks,” which is appropriate given that the entire area is covered with stunning limestone spires that pierce the sky. This is an excellent destination for a day trip to visit coastal beaches, enormous caverns, and peaceful fishing villages. There are 355 bird species in the park, including spotted crakes and steppe eagles, making it one of Thailand’s greatest birding destinations, particularly near the freshwater marsh of Thung Sam Roi Yot. The main draw, however, is Phraya Nakhon Cave, a sizable underground cavern created by sinkholes that is home to a royal pavilion that is noticeable among the dripping stalactites and stalagmites.
4. Hill Tribe Villages Outside of Chiang Mai
The area around Chiang Mai is teeming with intriguing hill tribe settlements, where locals preserve traditional customs and offer beautiful handicrafts to visitors. There are many similar villages in Chiang Mai, but we particularly like Baan Thong Youa and Baan Phong Ngan. Baan Thong Youa is home to the Lahu, Akha, and Karen hill tribes and serves as the starting point for an interesting forest journey. Starting from the town, you may climb into the gorgeous jungle, passing coffee plantations and farms run by native hill tribes. The trek through the forest rewards you with cultural contacts and wonderful natural features, including breathtaking views of the hillside. Baan Phong Ngan is located in the Mae Taeng district, north of Chiang Mai, and is home to the Lahu Hill Tribe. Starting in the hamlet, you may board a floating bamboo raft and go down the Mae Taeng River with a Lahu oarsman. You’ll travel past riverbank towns and may perhaps see buffalo swimming in the water.
5.Town of Lamphun
The town of Lamphun, located south of Chiang Mai, is one of the best sites to experience the Flavors of northern Thailand and learn about the region’s Lanna culture. Wat Phra That Hariphunchai is one of the country’s most prominent temples, housing a Buddha relic. Lamphun’s most remarkable feature is its gorgeous surrounding scenery. The majority of the locals’ foodstuffs come from fresh produce grown in their own gardens. This is an excellent spot to take a cooking lesson and learn how to cook over a traditional charcoal fire while sampling some distinctive Lanna delicacies like miang (fermented tea leaves) and betel nuts, a favoured snack among senior Lanna family members.
Conclusion
Thailand’s off-the-beaten-path features entice with a charm that extends beyond the typical tourist routes. From the historical allure of Lampang to the sad narratives engraved along the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi, these hidden jewels provide a glimpse into the heart of true Thai experiences. As we wave farewell to the calm vistas of Sam Roi Yot National Park and the cultural diversity of Hill Tribe Villages near Chiang Mai, our recollections serve as treasured keepsakes of a less-explored Thailand.
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