Make sure to leave some time to visit these must-see attractions around the Kingdom.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
(Tambon Suthep, Amphone Mueang, Chiang Mai; www.doisuthep.com)
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a sacred temple located on the hills in Chiang Mai. The temple is reached by walking up the more than 300 steps of the Naga staircase, which is decorated with statues and mythical serpents. Fortunately, a cable car is available those who want to save energy for other spots at top of the hill. After reaching the top, your eyes will be rewarded with breathtaking views in front of you. The beautiful golden spire, the White Elephant statue, and golden chedi are major attractions that are worth a visit.
Ancient City (Mueang Boran)
(296/1, Sukhumvit Road, Bang Pu, Samutprakan; 02 709 1644; www.ancientcity.com)
The ancient city is one of the largest outdoor museums in the world. This massive historical site is 80 hectares in size and features 109 copies of the country’s most illustrious monuments and buildings. When entering the city, people can imagine themselves living in the past in a tranquil setting that greatly differs from the city outside. This site educates the visitors about the history of Thailand and also impresses them with scale models of monuments to offer a realistic experience for visitors. The museum offers bicycle rental service to make the tour even more convenient and efficient.
The Thailand-Burma Railway Centre
(73 Jaokannun Road, Ban Nua, Kanchanaburi; 034 512 721; www.tbrconline.com)
The Thailand–Burma Railway Centre is an informative museum that presents the history of the railway and the role it played in major historical events, such as World War II. The building was built by Allied prisoners under the command of the Imperial Japanese Army during the war. The museum features eight main galleries that show artifacts used in the war, the life of the prisoners, and video clips to further illustrate the relationship of Kanchanaburi with WWII. The railway center also offers tours to locations associated with the railway, and the prison camp and other aspects of the historic event.
Wat Chedi Luang
(103 Road King Prajadhipok Phra Singh, Chiang Mai; 053 276 140)
Wat Chedi Luang is regarded as one of the must-see attractions in Chiang Mai. It not only attracts visitors as a religious site, but it also delights tourists with its architectural charm. It was once the home of the famous Emerald Buddha, which is now located in Wat Phra Kaew. The site is most famed for having the largest Buddhist chedi in Chiang Mai, which measures approximately 98 meters high and 54 meters around. Another attraction of Wat Chedi Luang is the Lak Mueang, a city pillar that is rumored to house the guardian deity of Chiang Mai.
Wat Mahathat
(Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park)
Wat Mahathat is unquestionably one of the most valued—and photographed—religious and historical sites in Thailand. The main attraction of this temple in Ayutthaya is a small ordination hall where the head of a Buddha image is embraced by the roots of a Bodhi tree. Skip the heat and the crowds by visiting it at sunrise or sunset.
