Thailand’s exquisite natural beauty and captivating culture perfectly fit the word ‘magnetic’. Around 30 million travelers fly each year for a well-deserved vacation in this Southeast Asian country. On the other hand, over-tourism has been haunting Thailand. Large packs of tourists flock to Thailand’s top destinations, like Bangkok and Phuket. However, that does not mean you cannot find places without crowds in the country. Check out these hidden gems in Thailand and make your dream getaway come true!
Hidden Gems in Thailand – Summary
- Koh Mak
- Koh Poda
- Nai Harn Beach, Phuket
- Phu Langka Viewpoint, Chiang Rai
- Phraya Nakon Cave, Hua Hin
- Thi Lo Su Waterfall
- Khao Sok National Park
- Amphawa
- Phanom Rung Temple
- Chiang Dao
- Pai
- Nan
Koh Mak
If you find Phuket or Koh Samui too crowded, head to Koh Mak. Tucked off the coast of Eastern Thailand, Koh Mak is a hidden paradise offering flawless beaches and star-rated resorts. It stays out of both local and international tourists’ radar, making it a perfect place to unwind. The island covers an area of 16 km2 – a one-hour bike ride can take you exploring. Moreover, you can stay in a private villa or a local-owned guest house. Have fresh seafood for dinner while enjoying the quaint atmosphere and starry sky. Therefore, Koh Mak is one of the must-visit hidden gems in Thailand.
Koh Poda
Ever dreamed of dipping your feet into the powdery sand of an untouched beach in Thailand? Good news – it does come true in Koh Poda! The small island stays hidden among Southern Thailand’s major destinations, like Railay Beach and Ao Nang. For that reason, Koh Poda features a trash-free coastline, crystal-clear waters, and healthy coral reefs underwater. Moreover, it presents an enormous jungle-coated limestone cliff as a backdrop. Koh Poda’s proximity to Krabi makes it easy for you to visit. It is one of the hidden gems in Thailand for beach lovers.
Nai Harn Beach, Phuket
You would not need to leave Phuket to find a quiet destination. Sitting on the southern end of Phuket, Nai Harn Beach is one of Thailand’s hidden gems. Jungle-clad hills surround the pristine beach. A few seaside hotels line along the coastline. While Karon and Patong are packed with tourists, Nai Harn is locals’ favorite escape. Soak up the sun at the powdery shore and dip yourself in the crystal-clear waters. It is an amazing place to unwind from Phuket’s hustle and bustle.
Phu Langka Viewpoint
Witness a landscape that will take you straight into the Avatar movie. Towering limestone cliffs jut out of thick mist with golden morning sun illuminating their facade. You can see the magical scene from Phu Langka Viewpoint. It is a part of Phu Langka, a tiny village sitting on the top of a hill. Shrouded between rainforests, Phu Langka Viewpoint might make you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere. However, you can find small cafes and humble guest houses to stay. The closest city, Chiang Rai, is also only a 2-hour drive away. It is one of the best hidden gems in Thailand to see a beautiful sunrise.
Phraya Nakon Cave
Leave the beaches for a while and walk down closer to the center of the Earth. Let Phraya Nakon Cave fascinate you with its breathtaking rock formations. Gigantic stalactites and stalagmites frame the landscape. Rocky walls wind forming a dome-like structure. Besides that, Phraya Nakon Cave houses a 19th-century cave pavilion. The gold-pleated Thai pavilion sits in a spacious area inside the cave. It glimmers under the sunlight which crept into the cave. Although reaching Phraya Nakon Cave requires a hard climb, all the sweat will be worth it! It is one of the most unique hidden gems in Thailand.
Thi Lo Su Waterfall
Cascading from a height of 250 meters, Thi Lo Su is the biggest waterfall in Thailand. The rushing waterfall comprises four tiers and is framed by lush rainforests. It lies in the heart of Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary in northwestern Thailand. Thus, it is one of the hidden gems in Thailand that waits to be explored. Visitors can hike into the rainforest to reach Thi Lo Su Waterfall. During the hike, you can hear loud rumbling sounds due to the waterfall’s rapid streams.
Khao Sok National Park
Stepping into Khao Sok National Park would make you feel like you are entering a movie scene. Find an enormous body of water dotted with towering limestone cliffs and surrounded by verdant rainforests. You can trek through the misty rainforest or row a kayak along the emerald Cheow Lan Lake. Alternatively, stay in the floating bungalows and sleep in nature’s serene embrace. The national park sits in Surat Thani province in southern Thailand – something to add to your Phuket or Krabi itinerary. It is one of the hidden gems in Thailand that you must visit.
Amphawa
When we talk about floating markets in Thailand, we would not leave out Bangkok. The capital city houses bustling floating markets, selling various goods from snacks to souvenirs. However, if you find Bangkok’s floating markets too touristy, you can head to Amphawa. Sitting one and a half hours drive away from Bangkok, Amphawa is home to authentic floating markets. See the locals selling their goods on wooden boats and floating kiosks. Sample some mouthwatering Thai delicacies and grilled seafood while grabbing some souvenirs. Most importantly, they are twice as cheap as Bangkok!
We would recommend staying in the market until the sun goes down. Warm-colored lanterns illuminate the kiosks and boats. Moreover, fireflies would often come and greet the visitors. It is one of the hidden gems in Thailand that you must visit.
Phanom Rung Temple
Discover a piece of Cambodia in Thailand at Phanom Rung Temple. It represents the legacy of Hindu Khmer influences in Thailand dating back to the 10th century. The grandeur temple is built in distinctive Khmer architecture with sky-puncturing towers and decorated walls. Moreover, Phanom Rung Temple sits above an extinct volcano, making it more unique. The complexity and history of the temple’s architecture make it a fascinating place to visit. Therefore, it is one of the best Thailand’s hidden gems, especially for history buffs.
Chiang Dao
This small town hides behind a row of jungle-clad limestone cliffs. A laidback community bustle within it, depicting what peace looks like. Temples, hot springs, and local markets are scattered around the town. Staying out of the tourists’ radar, Chiang Dao is one of the hidden gems in Thailand. Its refreshing scenery and relaxed everyday life invite everyone who needs a short escape.
Chiang Dao gets ‘City of Stars’ as its nickname due to the lovely landscape. You can do a day trip from Chiang Mai to this town and explore its attractions. Culture fans can see handicraft and textile workshops showcased in local markets. Adventurers can embark on the Chiang Dao Cave or hike along the steep green hills. Additionally, make sure to dig in the specialty Thai salad and skewers.
Pai
Sitting within Northern Thailand’s mountainous landscape, Pai is both a small local town and bohemian hub. At a glance, it will remind you of Ubud in Bali. Like its ‘sister’ town, Pai has been attracting international visitors for the past few years. However, it never lost its authenticity. Therefore, Pai is one of Thailand’s hidden gems you must consider visiting.
Pai features laidback streets, beautiful small temples, and hot springs. Moreover, it has an array of nature destinations. You can discover the cascading waterfalls, catch the sunrise from towering canyons, and walk along vast rice fields.
These hidden gems in Thailand beckon the adventurer inside of your. Walk off the beaten path and find one-of-a-kind experiences. If you think it’s better to have someone to show the way, we got your back!
JoinMyTrip offers a collection of group trips crafted by experienced local hosts. They love their hometown and will show you the most amazing spots in the local area. From dishes that make you crave for more to wonderful hidden gems, our TripLeaders pick the best ones for you. Start traveling and find a trusted local guide at JoinMyTrip.