When I visited Thailand for the first time in 2014, we did a 3-day scuba diving trip to the Similan Islands. I remember waking up early, standing at the boat’s railing, and just staring at the sun rising over the ocean. I thought I had finally found paradise.
This was it. I was in love with Thailand.
Fast forward to today—we’ve been living here since 2019. I’ve explored so many incredible places across the country. Ancient temples, floating markets, golden Buddhas, and crazy rock formations.
Now, it’s your turn!
These 15 must-see landmarks in Thailand should be on your bucket list. Let’s dive in!
1. The Grand Palace, Bangkok
If you visit Bangkok, you have to see the Grand Palace. This place is massive—spanning 2.3 million square feet (218,000 square meters)—and was home to Thai kings for 150 years.
Even though the royal family no longer lives here, the palace is still used for important ceremonies.
Inside, you’ll find Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
This tiny but sacred Buddha stands just 26 inches (66 cm) tall, made of jade, and has been around since the 15th century. The King himself changes its outfit three times a year for each season!
The buildings shimmer with gold, mosaics, and intricate details. Everything looks so extravagant that it almost doesn’t feel real. But be warned—it gets crowded, so go early!
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
🕘 Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 500 THB per person (includes Wat Phra Kaew)
🚫 Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must be covered. You can rent clothes at the entrance.
2. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Bangkok
Wat Arun belongs to Bangkok’s most stunning temples, and you’ll find it right on the Chao Phraya River. Its huge central tower, covered in colorful porcelain tiles, glows beautifully when the sun hits it. That’s why you should visit at sunrise or sunset for the best views.
You can climb the 269-foot-high (82 meters) tower for an amazing view of the river and city. The stairs are steep, so get ready for a little workout. At night, lights illuminate the temple, creating a breathtaking view from across the river.
Visiting is easy. Wat Arun sits right across from the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Just hop on a short ferry ride, and you’ll be there in minutes.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Arun Amarin Road, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok
🕘 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 100 THB per person
🚤 How to Get There: Take the Chao Phraya Express boat to Tha Tien Pier, then a 5 THB ferry.
3. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Bangkok
Wat Pho houses one of Thailand’s biggest Buddhas—the Reclining Buddha. You’ll see its massive 151-foot-long (46 meters) body covered in gold leaf, with feet stretching 16 feet (5 meters), decorated in intricate mother-of-pearl patterns. The statue is so huge that it barely fits inside the temple!
You’re standing in one of Bangkok’s oldest temples, dating back to the 16th century. This place wasn’t just a temple—it was Thailand’s first public university.
Today, it’s still the best spot for an authentic Thai massage, so if you want to experience the real thing, this is where you should go.
As you walk around, you’ll find over 1,000 Buddha images—the most in any temple in Thailand. Look out for the beautifully detailed chedis (stupas) and the intricate mosaic-covered structures that make this temple truly unique.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Sanam Chai Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
🕘 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 200 THB per person (includes a free bottle of water)
🚶 How to Get There: Short walk from the Grand Palace or Tha Tien Pier.
Check out these amazing hotels in Bangkok, or use the map below. 👇
4. Ayutthaya Historical Park, Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya was once Thailand’s grandest city. For over 400 years, it served as the capital of the Kingdom of Siam until the Burmese army destroyed it in 1767. Today, you can explore its ancient ruins, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Thailand’s most fascinating places.
The park spans 714 acres (289 hectares) and is packed with crumbling temples, giant Buddha statues, and old palaces. One of the most famous sights is the Buddha head trapped in tree roots at Wat Mahathat—it looks like nature is slowly reclaiming history.
You also have to see Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the former royal temple. Its three massive chedis (stupas) are still standing and look incredible at sunset.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Ayutthaya, 80 km north of Bangkok
🕘 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 50 THB per temple or 220 THB for a full pass
🚆 How to Get There: Train from Bangkok (15 THB – 350 THB) or minivan from Mo Chit (60–100 THB).
5. Sukhothai Historical Park, Sukhothai
Sukhothai is where Thai civilization began and where history lovers can step back in time. It was the first capital of Siam in the 13th century, and many believe this is where Thai art, architecture, and even the Thai alphabet originated.
Today, its ancient ruins are beautifully preserved, making it one of the best historical sites in Thailand.
The park spans 27 square miles (70 square kilometers) and holds nearly 200 ruins, including massive Buddha statues, towering chedis, and old palace foundations.
You can’t miss Wat Mahathat, with its huge seated Buddha and lotus-shaped stupas. Another must-see is Wat Si Chum, where a 49-foot-tall (15-meter) Buddha seems to peek out from the temple walls.
Sukhothai is quieter and less crowded than Ayutthaya, and the best way to explore is by bike. The flat roads and peaceful surroundings make cycling here a dream.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Sukhothai, 430 km north of Bangkok
🕘 Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 100 THB per zone (there are 3 zones) or 350 THB for all
🚍 How to Get There: Bus from Bangkok (7 hours, 300–500 THB), or fly to Sukhothai Airport.
6. Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), Chiang Rai
Wat Rong Khun is not your typical Thai temple. It looks like something straight out of a fantasy movie. This bright white, intricately designed temple was created by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat in 1997.
Unlike most golden temples in Thailand, this one is covered in tiny mirrors that sparkle in the sunlight.
The design is full of symbolism. The bridge leading to the main hall represents the journey from suffering to enlightenment. Below it, dozens of sculpted hands reach up, symbolizing human desire. Inside, you won’t find traditional Buddha murals.
Instead, the walls have paintings of superheroes, movie characters, and even spaceships—yes, really!
The temple is still a work in progress. Chalermchai says it won’t be finished in his lifetime, but it’s already one of the most unique places in Thailand.
By the way, it’s the only temple my girls actually enjoyed—so I can confidently say it’s kid-friendly!
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Pa O Don Chai, Chiang Rai
🕘 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 100 THB per person
🚌 How to Get There: From Chiang Rai, take a 20-minute taxi or local bus (20 THB).
7. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most famous temple in Northern Thailand and is considered a sacred site for Thai Buddhists. It sits on Doi Suthep mountain, about 3,520 feet (1,073 meters) above sea level, with incredible views over Chiang Mai.
Legend says it was built in 1383 to house a relic of the Buddha.
The gold-plated chedi (stupa) is the highlight. It shines in the sunlight and is surrounded by detailed murals, statues, and bells. To reach the temple, you must climb 306 steps up a beautifully decorated staircase guarded by two giant nagas (serpent-like creatures).
Too tired? There’s also a funicular tram for those who don’t want to walk up to this landmark in Thailand.
The atmosphere is peaceful, and monks often chant in the temple. Many visitors ring the prayer bells for good luck. The views from the top make the trip 100% worth it.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai
🕘 Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 50 THB per person (tram ticket: extra 20 THB)
🚗 How to Get There: Songthaew (red truck) from Chiang Mai (~50-100 THB one way) or motorbike rental.
8. Erawan Waterfall, Kanchanaburi
Erawan Waterfall is one of Thailand’s most beautiful waterfalls and a national treasure. It’s hidden inside Erawan National Park and has seven tiers, each with crystal-clear turquoise pools. The waterfall is named after Erawan, a three-headed elephant from Hindu mythology.
Locals say the top tier looks like an elephant’s head—but you’ll have to hike up and decide for yourself!
The trail stretches 0.9 miles (1.5 km), and each level gets more breathtaking. You can easily reach the lower pools, which are perfect for swimming. The higher you climb, the fewer people you’ll encounter.
Reaching the final tier takes some effort, but the peaceful surroundings and incredible view make it worth it. Keep an eye out for the nibbling fish in the water—they love giving your feet a little spa treatment!
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Erawan National Park, Kanchanaburi
🕘 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 300 THB per adult, 200 THB per child
🚗 How to Get There: Minivan from Kanchanaburi bus station (50 THB), or rent a motorbike (200–300 THB/day).
9. Bridge on the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi
The Bridge on the River Kwai was part of the Death Railway, a 258-mile (415-km) track that Allied prisoners of war (POWs) and forced laborers were forced to build under Japanese occupation during World War II.
The conditions were brutal—over 100,000 workers lost their lives due to disease, exhaustion, and harsh treatment.
Today, the bridge stands as a symbol of resilience and remembrance. Trains still run across it, and visitors can walk along the tracks to take in the view of the Kwae Yai River. A small museum nearby explains the tragic history behind the railway’s construction.
Every year in November and December, the River Kwai Bridge Festival features sound-and-light shows recreating key events from WWII.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Kanchanaburi, 130 km west of Bangkok
🕘 Opening Hours: Open 24/7, but the best time to visit is during daylight
🎟️ Entry Fee: Free (Museum: 50 THB)
🚆 How to Get There: Train from Bangkok’s Thonburi Station (100 THB, ~3 hours) or minivan from Mo Chit.
10. Phanom Rung Historical Park, Buriram
Phanom Rung is one of the most stunning Khmer temples outside Cambodia. Built between the 10th and 13th centuries, it sits on top of an extinct volcano at 1,319 feet (402 meters) above sea level. Dedicated to Shiva, the temple’s design aligns perfectly with the rising sun four times a year.
During these rare events, sunlight shines straight through its 15 doorways—a sight that attracts visitors from all over Thailand.
Many compare Phanom Rung to Angkor Wat, and it’s easy to see why. The intricate carvings and grand architecture bring Hindu myths to life. The most famous carving, the Phra Narai Lintel, was stolen and taken to the US but was returned to Thailand in 1988.
The best way to experience Phanom Rung is by walking up the long processional walkway that leads to the main sanctuary. Once you reach the top, the breathtaking view—especially at sunrise or sunset—makes the journey unforgettable.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Buriram Province, Northeastern Thailand
🕘 Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 100 THB per person (includes nearby Muang Tam temple)
🚗 How to Get There: Bus from Buriram to Nang Rong (1 hour, 50 THB), then tuk-tuk or rental motorbike.
11. Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani
Khao Sok National Park has towering limestone cliffs, emerald-green lakes, dense rainforests, and rare wildlife. Located in Southern Thailand, it is one of the oldest rainforests in the world, dating back over 160 million years—even older than the Amazon.
The highlight is Cheow Lan Lake, a stunning man-made lake with dramatic rock formations and floating bungalows. You can explore by long-tail boat or kayak, gliding through narrow channels and hidden caves. Guided jungle treks take you to waterfalls, caves, and prime wildlife-spotting areas.
Keep an eye out for elephants, gibbons, hornbills, and even wild cats. If you’re up for more adventure, join a guided tour to explore hidden caves and get even closer to nature.
If you’re visiting Phang Nga Bay, a day trip to James Bond Island is a great add-on. The famous limestone rock from The Man with the Golden Gun is just a boat ride away. Many tours also include kayaking through sea caves and a visit to the floating village of Koh Panyee.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Surat Thani Province, Southern Thailand
🕘 Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 300 THB per adult, 150 THB per child
🚤 How to Get There: From Surat Thani, take a minivan (2 hours, ~300 THB) or a private taxi.
12. Phi Phi Islands, Krabi
The Phi Phi Islands are a tropical paradise and one of Thailand’s most famous destinations. With turquoise water, white sand beaches, and towering limestone cliffs, it’s easy to see why. The islands became world-famous after Maya Bay was featured in The Beach (2000), starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
Phi Phi is made up of six islands, but the two main ones are:
- Koh Phi Phi Don – The only inhabited island, with hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Koh Phi Phi Leh – A national park with stunning beaches and hidden lagoons.
Most visitors come for snorkeling, diving, and boat trips. The coral reefs are full of colorful fish, sharks, and sea turtles. If you like viewpoints, hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint for an incredible panoramic view of the island.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Krabi Province, Southern Thailand
🕘 Opening Hours: Open 24/7, but boat tours run 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: 400 THB (national park fee for Maya Bay)
⛴️ How to Get There: Ferry from Phuket (1.5 hrs, ~500 THB) or Krabi (1 hr, ~450 THB).
13. Similan Islands, Andaman Sea
The Similan Islands, I talked about them in the beginning, are not just a diver’s paradise. They are also one of the most breathtaking natural landmarks in Thailand. Located in the Andaman Sea, this group of 11 islands is part of a protected national park.
The water is crystal clear, the coral reefs are full of colorful fish, sea turtles, and manta rays, and the beaches have powdery white sand.
Diving here is unreal. Famous dive sites like Richelieu Rock and Elephant Head Rock are home to whale sharks, leopard sharks, and giant schools of fish. Even if you don’t dive, snorkeling is amazing, too. The reefs are shallow, and you’ll see plenty of marine life just by floating on the surface.
The Similan Islands are only open from October to May to protect the environment. No one lives here, and overnight stays are no longer allowed. You can visit on a day trip from Khao Lak or Phuket.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: 70 km off the coast of Phang Nga Province
🕘 Opening Hours: October – May only, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: 500 THB per adult, 300 THB per child
🚤 How to Get There: Speedboat from Khao Lak (1.5 hrs, ~2,500 THB) or Phuket (2 hrs).
14. Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai
The Golden Triangle is where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. This region, where the Mekong and Ruak Rivers cross, was once famous for something very different—opium. For years, this area was a major hub of the global drug trade, but today, it’s a peaceful, scenic spot with historical significance.
The best way to see the Golden Triangle is from the viewpoint in Sop Ruak. You’ll spot three countries at once, with Thailand’s golden Buddha, Laos’s casino resorts, and Myanmar’s mountains in the background. If you’re curious about the past, visit the Hall of Opium Museum.
It explains how the opium trade shaped the region and how it was eventually shut down.
Boat tours on the Mekong River are also popular. Some trips even stop in Don Sao, a small Laotian island where you can shop without a visa.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Chiang Rai Province, Northern Thailand
🕘 Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (Museums: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM)
🎟️ Entry Fee: Free (Hall of Opium: 200 THB)
🚗 How to Get There: 1-hour drive from Chiang Rai, or take a tour.
15. Sanctuary of Truth, Pattaya
The Sanctuary of Truth is unlike any other temple in Thailand. It’s not just a temple—it’s a massive wooden masterpiece. Every inch of this 105-meter-tall structure is hand-carved from wood, and it’s built without a single nail.
The temple blends Thai, Hindu, Buddhist, Chinese, and Khmer influences, showcasing intricate carvings of gods, mythological creatures, and celestial beings.
Construction started in 1981 and is still ongoing. It’s a work in progress, much like Thailand’s spiritual and cultural traditions. Inside, you’ll find detailed wooden sculptures that tell stories about philosophy, life, and the universe. The craftsmanship is unbelievable, and walking inside feels like stepping into an ancient legend.
This isn’t just a place to look at art—it’s an experience. You can watch artisans carving the wood, take a boat ride around the temple, or even ride a horse-drawn carriage through the grounds.
What to Know Before You Go
📍 Location: Pattaya, Chonburi Province
🕘 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
🎟️ Entry Fee: 500 THB per adult, 250 THB per child
🚗 How to Get There: 20-minute drive from central Pattaya or Grab/taxi (~200 THB).
👉 Want to see more stunning Landmarks in Thailand? You might also like:
– Best Scuba Diving in Thailand
– Where to See Elephants in Thailand?
– 35 Interesting Facts About Thailand
– When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Thailand?
– The Best Months to Visit Thailand
Final Thoughts on the Most Iconic Landmarks in Thailand
Thailand’s landmarks tell so many stories. Some take you back hundreds of years to ancient kingdoms. Others remind you of recent history. And then there are places like the Similan Islands, where you just float in the water and wonder if life can get any better.
So, grab your backpack, camera, and flip-flops, and start exploring these incredible landmarks in Thailand. And if you find a hidden gem I haven’t been to yet—please let me know in the comments!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
Just a heads up: some links in the article “Landmarks in Thailand” on Nomadmum.com are affiliate links. This means if you click and buy, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
