There are few places on this planet that are so beautiful that words don’t do it justice. Thailand is one of those places. In all honesty, not every corner of Thailand is aesthetically beautiful. Technically, I could say that about every place I have visited. That said, the natural beauty of the country is astonishing. Thailand is often called “The Land of Smiles” and when you visit you quickly understand why. The culture is so welcoming and everyone is so helpful. I was fascinated by the grandeur of the temples, the stunning landscapes and let’s not even get started talking about the food. It’s hard to capture this magnitude of beauty in photos, so I would urge you to go see them with your own eyes.
My journey through Thailand took me from Bangkok to Chiang Mai to Krabi. And while this is far from all inclusive, there were sites in these places that blew me away. If you are planning a trip to Thailand, I’ve outlined a few visually stunning places that you should most certainly add to your itinerary.
Bangkok
It’s sometimes hard to think of captivating beauty in a bustling capital city. But there are so many amazing temples across Bangkok that literally shine. Hop on a tuktuk or jump into a longtail boat and make your way through this fascinating city.
Grand Palace was built as the official residence of the King of Siam back in 1782. Today, curious visitors can tour the palace for around $16USD. It is one of the busiest attractions in Bangkok so getting that perfect photo might prove to be bit tricky.
The grounds are absolutely stunning. You could spend hours gazing at the perfectly manicured bonsai trees alone. Make sure you put down the camera and really enjoy this special palace.
Wat Arun. You can get the most amazing view of this temple from the river. Hop on a long tail boat and take a cruise by the site before disembarking to get a closer for the view. The temple is famous for its striking spires and vast footprint along the river. You can get the most dramatic sunrise and sunset views from the grounds. For this reason, the temple has come to be known as the Temple of Dawn.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is ideal for people looking for a culturally immersive experience without a bunch of tourist getting in your way. Soon after you arrive, you’ll be jumping in the back of a truck/taxi and heading to some of the most iconic sites in the city.
Was Phra That Doi Suthep is a temple perched atop a sacred mountain. It’s a bit of a workout to get there but once you arrive you will be gifted with a panoramic view of Chiang Mai and the ornate temple of Doi Suthep. Take your time to wander about the temple and if it feels right, settle in for a moment of personal reflection and gratitude
Old City provides a glimpse into the past of Chiang Mai. As you arrive, you will notice the historic walls and moats that still encircle the Old City. Within this area, you’ll find numerous temples, markets, and traditional Thai houses. Some of the most magical places are hidden in plain sight. Take some time to visit a few of the temples but don’t miss the opportunity to engage with the local while you are there.
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai attracts many visitors because of its close borders to Laos and Myanmar. It’s a quieter and more laid-back alternative to Chiang Mai and offers a unique glimpse into northern Thailand. It won’t take long before you run across two of the most stunning temples in Thailand.
Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple) is notable for its brilliant blue hues and elaborate architecture. Step inside to see the stunning murals and the large white Buddha statue. The artistry captured here is so unique. Get curious and learn as much as you can about the history of this fascinating temple.
Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) is easily one of the most beautiful places in Thailand. The Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat designed this contemporary Buddhist Temple. The dazzling white façade, intricate details, and unconventional art style that combines traditional Buddhist imagery with a modern pop are what make this temple stand out from the rest.
Krabi
While many people run off to Phuket, those in the know head over to Krabi. The pristine beaches and luxurious resorts are what have made this a go to destination for discerning travelers. It’s the ideal location for those seeking total relaxation. Unless you happen to be there when movies like The Hangover are filming scenes at the resorts. The most efficient way to get to Krabi is by private speed boat transfer. This gives you the opportunity to take in all of the amazing beauty of the area and arrive in style to your resort. I personally found this to be the most beautiful place I visited in Thailand.
Hong Islands is a group of islands known for their stunning limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. Take a boat tour to explore the hidden lagoons and snorkel in the coral reefs. But watch out for jellyfish. They seemed to be in high numbers during my visit.
Phulay Bay located in the Krabi province, is where you a really check out of it all. It’s also home to some of Thailand’s most luxurious resorts, offering world-class amenities and incredible views. I stayed at the Ritz Carlton, Phulay Bay and could not have chosen a better place to cater to my every whim. The view from the massive pool deck is astonishing. And the way they have honored the culture with design of layout of the result is fantastic.
My Perspective
Thailand offers a surprise at every corner. Take the opportunity to step away from the crowds to experience the serenity the country has to offer. You don’t have to be a professional photographer to snaps some great shots from your camera. Just remember to put it away and capture the most impressive memories in your heart and mind.
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