The best resorts in Thailand. Major cities in Thailand - what places are worth visiting? Resort provinces of Thailand

Thailand attracts tourists with various types of recreation: from relaxing to beach holiday on a quiet island. The tropical climate allows you to enjoy the warmth, sun and sea every day of the year, which is why most Russians go on vacation there during the cold season. In addition, Thailand is famous for its huge number of attractions that are worth seeing at least once in your life. The Buddhist spirit permeates the country's guests through and through, making them admire the local temples and cathedrals. There is a Thailand for everyone. Returning there, each time you can enjoy different types of recreation.

Since 1782, the capital of Thailand has been Bangkok - a large city with a lot of entertainment, shopping centers and attractions. The Chao Phraya River divides the city into two parts. Another large city of the country - Pattaya - is famous beautiful scenery And nightlife.

Thailand is home to several international-level golf courses that attract golf lovers from all over the world.

The most large part country - northeastern - called I-San in Thai. It includes about twenty provinces with amazing and unique history and traditions. This region borders Cambodia to the south and is bounded by the Mekong River to the east and north.
They make a unique impression, from large and noisy, full of entertainment, to quiet, semi-uninhabited remote islands, where you can relax from the bustle of the city and enjoy pristine and uniquely beautiful nature.

Resort provinces of Thailand.

Each of the tourist cities of this amazing and unique country hides many attractions that are sure to interest vacationers. Unique views and beaches will allow you to enjoy the beauty and warm sea, and will also help you find entertainment to your liking.

I-San Province.

Semi-dry place suitable for growing rice. The region is rich national parks, such as Khao Uyai, Phu Kra Dung and Phu Luang, with entertainment and rural traditions. Saved in this place cultural heritage and traditions throughout Thailand. It is famous for a variety of colorful and noisy celebrations and festivals. For example, the Candle Festival, which local residents are held in honor of the rainy season, as well as a holiday in Ubon Ratchathani, the main item of which is candles of incredible size. The Bun Bang Fai holiday is also interesting for tourists, which is celebrated for two whole days. The first day is marked by large parades, and on the second day many fireworks are launched into the sky. The spectacle is truly breathtaking!

In Surin, at the end of November, an elephant taming festival takes place. About a hundred animals take part in this action. Trainers show their skills in catching and taming these sacred animals in Thailand. This spectacle is amazing.

Krabi Province.

The province is located on the Andaman coast and fascinates tourists with its picturesque views, clean sea ​​water and soft white sand. The many varied and colorful fish hovering around the feet of vacationers in the clear water are pleasing to the eye. This place is known among tourists for its most beautiful national parks. For example, Mu Koh Lanta, where you can see a huge orchid farm, Phao Khanom Bencha, where you can swim in the most beautiful waterfalls, Mu Ko Phi Phi, where Suzan Hoi is located, is a place where you can see stunning shells, many of which are several million years old. You can go rock climbing, diving, jet skiing and many other activities.

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Located at an altitude of more than half a kilometer above sea level in northern Thailand. The place is interesting for tourists due to its cultural significance in the development of the country. The province is home to many temples and cathedrals, as well as historical sites. For example, Wat Phrathat Doi Chom Thong, which was founded earlier than the city, and Singhahlai Road Temple, where the Buddha statue is kept. If you are visiting Thailand in December-January, then you should definitely visit the village of Santi Khiri. During this period, the color of Thai cherry is there - the sight amazes with its beauty.

Ching Mai city.

This city is located in the center of northern Thailand. This is the second largest city in the country, but, unlike the bustling Bangkok, it has retained its pristine cultural life, traditions and the atmosphere of a “non-tourist” city, despite the fact that it is developing rapidly. is on the shore the most beautiful river Ping. In this place you can visit the most high point Thailand - Mount Doi Inthanon (its height is more than 2500 meters). Near a large city there are several very small villages where locals still live in rural communes, as in ancient times. Mae Klang Waterfall also attracts tourists - the most favorite place for picnics and quiet walks with local residents.

Pattaya city.

This city is the most popular among tourists. It captivates vacationers with chaos and wild nightlife. and resorts await vacationers all year round - this city almost bypasses the rainy season. In addition, the proximity to Bangkok is a big plus - less than two hours drive from. It is impossible to visit and see all the attractions in Pattaya in one trip. It would take a very long time to list them. But some places simply cannot be ignored, for example, the province of Chanthaburi, located in the suburbs of Pattaya. The most popular excursion is a trip along the River Kwai.

The emotions you experience during this journey are incomparable. In Pattaya you can visit many jewelry centers and even a museum precious stones. The local aquarium will not leave either children or adults indifferent. In addition, fishing in the open sea and diving can serve as excellent entertainment. It is worth taking time for a trip to the Dream World amusement park. for a long time. In huge shopping and entertainment centers you can find a lot of things from well-known and not so famous brands at very attractive prices. You should prepare for the fact that you will want to spend as much money as possible on souvenirs for yourself and your friends.

Islands of Thailand.

The islands of the country are the most popular among tourists, where you can not only have fun, but also be in solitude with nature, enjoy its pristine beauty and virginity.

Koh Kood Island.

This is the fourth largest island in Thailand, famous for its amazing, untouched nature. There are many available for tourists sports entertainment: diving, canoeing, water skiing and windsurfing. You can also take excursions to neighboring islands. The beaches are covered with white sand, lush greenery pleases the eye, and azure waters create a feeling of peace.

Phuket Island.

The richest island in Thailand. It attracts tourists with many attractions and paradisiacal nature. Enjoy underwater world It won't be difficult to get close to the island - diving lessons with an instructor cost little money. More experienced holidaymakers can purchase equipment from the store and practice scuba diving as much as they want. In addition, you can rent a yacht and enjoy the beauty of the island from the water.
Thailand is rich in unique and inimitable islands, on each of which you can find a lot of new and unusual things. The following islands are often visited by tourists: Koh Samui, Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.

Conclusion.

For every tourist in Thailand there is a place that will be to their liking and will be remembered for a long time. Fans of noisy entertainment will enjoy spending time in large cities such as Bangkok and Pattaya. Connoisseurs of culture and traditions should visit the local provinces. For lovers of tropical holidays, all kinds of islands with amazingly beautiful nature are open.

And so, if you have decided what time is best to relax in Thailand, then we will briefly tell you where you can have a good rest. There are corners of the planet that can only be called “paradise”! The nature here amazes with its beauty and purity, an abundance of greenery and shady palm trees, the climate pampers with warm air, plenty of sun and a gentle breeze, and the gentle sea caresses your feet, inviting you to plunge into its cleansing freshness! We will tell you about the best , beach, expensive and popular resorts in Thailand, you will see resorts and cities on the map and photos.

A relatively small country - by Russian standards - has so many different resorts that can satisfy the needs of the most demanding and demanding tourists that you could list them all day - and this without much detail.

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People from all over the world come here, even from other “paradise” corners, because it is in Thailand that you can find complete harmony with yourself! It doesn’t matter whether it lies in the need to live for a few days desert island or, conversely, plunge headlong into the reckless nightlife. Or maybe make an important discovery for your spiritual life?! Amazing Thailand will provide all the opportunities for this!

In general, the list of resorts and cities in Thailand looks like this:

  • Bangkok;
  • Ayutthaya;
  • Phuket;
  • Pattaya;
  • Rayong;
  • Krabi;
  • Sukhothai;
  • Chiang Mai.

Central region of Thailand

There are two main cities in the central region - the current capital Bangkok and the ancient capital Ayutthaya.

Bangkok

In addition to the fact that Bangkok is the current capital of Thailand, it is also Thailand's largest port. Also, it represents major cities and resorts in Thailand. Bangkok received this title in 82 of the 19th century. The Thai name for Bangkok sounds like the “city of angels”, the most noisy, popular and in demand city among all foreign tourists.

The most interesting and fascinating can be found in the historical part of Bangkok - on the island called Rattanakosin. This is where the main attractions of all of Thailand are located - Royal Palace, as well as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. In addition, guests of the country often visit National Museum, where an amazing collection of Thai masters is collected, the Temple of the Dawn, and also the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. You can get acquainted with the religion of Thailand in the monasteries, of which there are more than two hundred in Bangkok. If you love Asian flavor, metropolitan bustle, bright colors and constant movement, then Bangkok is exactly the place where you should definitely visit.

Bangkok is the most paradoxical city in the country! Contradictions here are encountered literally at every step: magnificent skyscrapers, competing with each other to see which of them is more modern and sophisticated, embody symbols without which the capital of any large state, where life does not stop even at night, is unthinkable.

As already mentioned, Thailand has a wide variety of resorts that provide the full range of services - from a serene beach holiday to a rich cultural and entertainment life. Perhaps, every guest of the country eventually develops his own TOP list of places that are a must-visit in Thailand.

However, as soon as one lowers his gaze to the foot of the ultra-fashionable giants, the tourist immediately understands that he is not in just another city of the 21st century, but in Thailand, an Asian country that professes Buddhism.


Bangkok - Royal Palace

Numerous shops and small houses, an incredible number of temples modestly nestled against the wall of a newfangled high-rise, peaceful residents walking along traffic-filled highways - the contrast is so striking that it is even mesmerizing!

There are no beach holidays in Bangkok, but this is not a reason to miss visiting this city when traveling to Thailand. There is no point in listing its advantages and attractions, because there are incredibly many of them, and besides, every guest of the city will find something for themselves here.

A variety of entertainment and excursions will make your stay in Bangkok truly unforgettable; it will be equally interesting for both shopping lovers and connoisseurs of authentic Asian culture.

Bangkok on the map

Ayutthaya

Another place in Thailand whose visit should have the word “must!” - This is Ayutthaya. The history of Ayutthaya goes back to the distant 14th century - when Ayutthaya was still the capital of Thailand, kings lived here. The historical part of the city of Ayutthaya is strictly protected by UNESCO, but among the attractions you should pay attention to the so-called “Grand” palace, monasteries, as well as the royal chapel.

This city cannot be classified as a resort in the classical sense of the word, but missing it from the list is simply criminal.


Ayutthaya - the ancient capital of Siam

Ancient capital country reveals something to its guests that makes any beaches pale in comparison. A once destroyed city, in which even the ruins allow us to judge the former beauty, grandeur and scale of Thai culture!

Ayutthaya on the map

In order to properly enjoy the sights of Ayutthaya, it is better to spend 2-3 days in this city by booking a hotel in advance. Some tourists claim that after visiting it they looked at their lives completely differently and gained some knowledge that allowed them to make it better!


Eastern part of Thailand

Pattaya

Resort towns Thailand is amazing, and this city has rightfully won the title as the most famous resort in Thailand. It is located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand. Pattaya offers affordable entertainment for everyone, this is especially true if you want to relax with a large group.

The only drawback of the resort is that it does not boast excellent cleanliness. In addition, the developed adult industry may discourage a family vacation here. Having gained fame as a “city of sins”, it really boasts a variety of entertainment – ​​from those that are just right to write “age 21+” stickers on them, to those where you can easily go with the whole family.

But, despite all this, Pattaya is very popular among tourists. If you come to Pattaya, be sure to visit the crocodile farm, elephant village, Coral reefs or a zoo.

Young people and tourists who want to have a blast should definitely include a visit to Pattaya on their list, staying there for a few days or even the entire vacation.

Pattaya on the map

Unfortunately, despite the fact that the city has access to the sea, the beaches here are dirty and not very pleasant to visit, therefore, to swim in the sea, you will have to choose the neighboring islands, of which there are quite a few nearby.

However, the size of Thailand is so large and huge that you can easily move from one part of the country to another, combining in one vacation all the delights of both nightlife and serene beach life!

Rayong

This city is completely opposite to Pattaya. There is a quiet resort here, clear sea, delightful calm beaches and very cozy bays. Among the attractions, tourists love the fishermen's village and healing springs. Rayong - great choice for a family vacation.

Southern part of Thailand

Phuket

An island where dreams come true - this is what most travelers say about Phuket! Phuket is the best beach resort in Thailand. An amazingly beautiful place in nature with long sandy beaches, a gentle sea of ​​crystal purity, an abundance of vegetation and corners where you can easily be alone.


beach in Phuket

Despite the developed tourist infrastructure, which includes numerous hotels, an extensive network of roads, a variety of entertainment, several parks and modern nightlife, the population of the island managed to maintain its original appearance - not disfigured by the imprint of modern life!

Phuket on the map

Krabi

This region can be found by focusing on Phuket - Krabi is located exactly opposite it. Krabi is located on the river, but it is not classified as a resort town. A vacation in the former fishermen's village is recommended for those who want to experience local flavor and delve into the life of the Thai people.

The province of Krabi is familiar to many tourists from the film “The Beach”, since it was filmed in a place called Phi Phi - it is part of this territorial unit of Thailand.

Thanks to the diversity of nature, the infrastructure for active recreation is very developed here - from diving to rock climbing. The resort's beaches boast fine, surprisingly white sand, and numerous and very comfortable hotels offer a wide range of spas and other wellness treatments.


beach in Krabi

For connoisseurs cultural programs in Krabi you have the opportunity to visit numerous parks and excursions, touch the history of these places and even get acquainted with the life and way of life of modern Thais, many of whom live “the old fashioned way”.

Krabi on the map

So for those tourists who would like to have time to fully embrace all the features of Thailand on their rather time-limited vacation - as such, you can safely book a hotel in Krabi and not go anywhere else.
Krabi province

Local infrastructure will provide you with a classic bounty-style holiday, an unforgettable experience of Thai massage, and satiate you with cultural impressions.

Northeastern part of Thailand

This region of the country includes only one city, Udon Thani, which is located 50 kilometers from the Laotian border. In the 19th century, Udon Thani was the capital of the Kingdom of Thailand, and the surrounding area of ​​the city has been lively and inhabited since prehistoric times. They're talking about it ancient settlement in Ban Chiang. The city's attractions include Buddhist temples and a zoo.

Northern part of the country

Sukhothai

This city is unique in terms of history. Its foundation dates back to the 13th century - 1238. Nowadays, the territory of historical Sukhothai is under the protection of UNECO and is the most interesting and important attraction of Thailand. Among interesting places Sukhothai is worth visiting Wat San Da Pha Daeng, Wai Mahathat, and also Wat Si Chum.

Sukhothai on the map

Kanchagaburi

Chiang Mai

Nicknamed the city of monasteries and mountain landscapes. It is located in Chiang Mai highest peak all over Thailand. In addition to architectural monuments, it is worth seeing with your own eyes the monasteries, the National Museum and various parks.

Tourist resorts in Thailand are ready to surprise every new tourist. Thailand is something that is truly worth seeing with your own eyes.

Geographical location and population

The Kingdom of Thailand is a state in the central part South-East Asia, which is spread over two peninsulas: Indochina and Malacca. This country is being washed Andaman Sea from the west and South China Sea from the east (Gulf of Thailand).

The area of ​​Thailand is 514,000 km2. The country borders Laos and Cambodia in the east, Malaysia in the south and Myanmar in the west. The Kingdom is divided into regions: Northern, Northeastern, Central, Eastern and Southeastern. The map of the country resembles the outline of an elephant, whose trunk is the south of the kingdom.

The population of the “Land of Smiles” is 65 million people. Most of them are ethnic Thai (80%), in addition, the main population includes Chinese, Lao, Khmer, Hindus and Malays. Official language in the kingdom - Thai, in addition to it, in big cities Common languages ​​are English, Japanese and Chinese. The calendar is Buddhist, ahead of the Gregorian by 543 years (2012 = 2555).

Cities of Thailand

Thailand is a country with a centuries-old history and developed culture. Cities of Thailand offer guests of the country a unique opportunity to get acquainted with beautiful examples of historical architecture and see stunning natural wonders, and also plunge into the colorful world of traditions of one of the most amazing countries South-East Asia.

Capital of Thailand - Bangkok city, located in the central part of the country, is one of the largest metropolitan areas in Asia. is a kind of gateway to the “Land of Smiles”, although it is landlocked, it is through it that most tourists enter Thailand. Here is also the largest collection of palaces, temples, parks, museums and other important attractions of Thailand.

Popular resort town Pattaya- the closest beach in Thailand to Bangkok. Although the coastal areas are built up with comfortable family hotels, the center of activity of the city, attracting the bulk of tourists, is the famous Walking Street, full of bars, discos and available women.

The capital of Northern Thailand is the city Chiang Mai surrounded by a chain picturesque mountains and the glory of one of the most important spiritual and cultural centers countries. The ancient Buddhist temples located here are revered as the greatest shrines far beyond the borders of the “Land of the Free”. The city has a developed infrastructure that will allow you to combine natural and cultural attractions with a variety of entertainment and vibrant nightlife.

City Ayutthaya, located 100 km from, was the predecessor of the current capital of Thailand. Destroyed during the invasion of Burmese troops more than 250 years ago, it remains today the most important monument of the history and culture of Thailand.

Other large cities: Samut Prakan (390 thousand inhabitants), Surat Thani (130 thousand inhabitants) and Khon Kaen (121 thousand inhabitants). The cities where the main resorts of the country are located are easily accessible and can strike a visitor as unusual high level service.

Resorts of Thailand

The main thing that makes holidays in Thailand attractive to most people is the sea, sand and tropical nature. Numerous resorts in Thailand, located on the islands and on the mainland, provide excellent conditions for a beach holiday and a varied range of related entertainment.

Phuket Island

Thailand's main and most prestigious beach resort is located in the Andaman Sea, near southwest coast countries. Holidays in Phuket will allow you to combine the enjoyment of untouched tropical nature with an extremely rich program of excursions and evening leisure activities.

The center of tourist activity on the island is main beach- . Patong Beach is concentrated greatest number hotels, entertainment venues, and the infamous street is also located here.

Koh Samui

The second most popular (after Phuket) island resort in Thailand. Picturesque lovers come to Koh Samui to relax tropical nature, privacy and comfort.

Koh Phangan Island

A small island located next to Koh Samui has long been loved by fans of modern music and reckless nightlife. It is at this resort in Thailand that the famous beach raves are regularly held, in which people from all over the world come to participate.

Koh Chang Island

(“Elephant Island”), located at the southeastern tip of the Gulf of Thailand, for a long time was favorite place recreation for representatives of the reigning dynasty and Thai aristocracy. Today this protected tropical resort, lost in the azure waters of the sea, is one of best places for a secluded holiday and exploring the nature of Thailand.

Krabi Province

Krabi province is located on the mainland, 170 km east of Phuket. Krabi is home to such popular Thai resorts as, which became the location for the filming of the Hollywood blockbuster “The Beach”. Also famous for its unique karst caves and numerous nature reserves.

Hua Hin

A small city located 200 km from Bangkok, considered one of the most prestigious beach resorts Thailand. There are practically no noisy night entertainments here, so the beach Hua Hin but it is considered ideal place for families with children and for elderly tourists.

Which resort in Thailand should you choose?

Beach and excursion holiday: Pattaya, Phuket, Samui, Krabi province.

Excursions only: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya.

Vacation with children: Bangkok, Phuket, Samui, Hua Hin, Koh Chang.

Night life: Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Phangan.

  • Holidays in Thailand during the rainy season (May-October) will allow you to save a little on the cost of staying at a hotel, but there is a high probability of spending the lion's share of the time hiding under the roof from the raging elements.
  • Many popular Thailand attractions(temples, islands, parks) are cheaper and more interesting to explore yourself, having previously learned the route to them.
  • Noisy Pattaya has fun day and night. If you are not inclined to active recreation and night fun, you should pay attention to a calmer Thailand resort.

Pattaya

Rayong

Rayong is located in the eastern part of the country. Here you can bask on the beach and admire the beauty of the sea, or you can visit the sights, of which there are at least three dozen in this city. Here are some of them:
City temple. This is a small temple in the historical part of the city, which was first built from wood. Later, when the structure was restored, it was decided to rebuild the concrete walls, but preserve the original architecture. The temple was built by the Chinese and is dedicated to the deity who is the patron saint of the city of Rayong. The temple area is not very large, but the historical architecture is impressive.
Rayong Caves are located near the city. There are 86 of them in total, and almost every cave has a unique waterfall or karst lake. The caves themselves are of limestone origin, and on their walls you can find carved panels with images of animals, birds and plants, made by the ancestors of the Thais.
Arboretum Sofa. This is an incredibly beautiful garden that is over a hundred years old. The entire garden is planted in traditional Thai style and has a rich variety of plants and trees. Flowers also grow here, many of which are considered rare or endangered species. The garden area is large, you can even spend the whole day here, just walking and enjoying Thai nature.

A separate and most popular part of the arboretum is the rose garden. This garden is famous for the fact that there are more than 70 different varieties of roses, many of which were brought from different parts of the world. That is why the garden is unique - nowhere in the world are there similar open-air plantings.

    • Suphattraland orchard. This garden is located in the suburbs of Rayong and is one of the largest botanical gardens in the country. It is unique not only for the fruits growing in it, but also because they can be picked and eaten throughout the entire tour of the gardens (however, it is strictly forbidden to take them out). By the way, a tour of the garden can be done not only on foot, but also by tram, which runs very slowly and makes stops at various plantations. At the end of the tour, you can relax and eat traditional Thai dishes in the cafe, many of which are prepared with fruits grown in Suphattraland.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is an ancient city that was founded at the end of the 14th century. It was once the capital, and everything in the city is different time 36 kings ruled. Ayutthaya is rich in historical monuments, primarily architectural. But not only them. What attractions are worth visiting here:

      • WatPhraSiSanphet Temple. This is a temple that can be called the largest in the city of Ayutthaya, or rather its ruins. The first thing that catches your eye when approaching the temple is the three chedis arranged in a row. Previously, they were destroyed during the war, but were restored not very long ago. But not only thanks to the chedi, this temple became a replacement; on its territory there are also many different historical buildings and ruins that have not yet been restored, which are also worth visiting.
      • WatPhraMahathat Temple. This temple can be called the hallmark and main attraction of the city of Ayutthaya. It became famous for the fact that on its territory there is a head of Buddha carved from stone. It is located just above ground level and is intertwined with the roots of a huge tree. Access to this statue is not limited, and there are always many tourists around it who want to take pictures with this monument.
      • WatBoromPhuttharam Temple. This temple was built in the 18th century, but now you can only admire its ruins, which, by the way, are very well preserved. Here you cannot enter any building and see everything from the inside, but you can enjoy the architecture of the complex from the outside. This temple is popular because entry to its territory is free for everyone, and the complex itself is quite extensive.
      • BungPhraRamPark. The park contains ancient ruins and several ponds. This perfect place to take a walk and relax on fresh air. You can have a snack in the park, or you can just wander around the territory. This a good place for leisure, if you come to the city of Ayutthaya for long term, for example, for a week. Then you can unwind here and take a walk without a tour. If time is limited, it is better to visit more significant attractions.
      • PhetFortress. This fortress was built back in the 15th century, and then it served as a defensive structure. The fortress was the guard of the city of Ayutthaya and its main fortification. Now it is a historical monument, which is quite interesting to visit. Entrance to the territory is free, and besides, this place is also famous as the confluence of two Thai rivers - Pasak and Chaoprayai.

Phuket

Phuket is famous for its beauty. Both the city and its surroundings are beautiful. In addition, there are many interesting places and attractions that are worth seeing:

        • PhraNangSang Temple. This is the most ancient temple of all those located in Phuket. This complex is more than 250 years old. It is located in the suburbs of Phuket, and getting there is not difficult.
        • 3 most large statues Buddhas are also located on Phuket territory. They are located not far from each other, and there are many legends about these statues. According to some of them, it can be argued that these statues are the oldest in Thailand.
        • Kathu Falls. This is a 130-meter waterfall with many bends and cascades. The area here is very beautiful, and the waterfall itself is located near the Phuket beaches. On the territory of the waterfall complex there is a small restaurant with different cuisines of the world, but mainly Thai.
        • Orchid garden. Orchid is one of the most common types of flowers that grow in Thailand. But the orchid garden in Phuket is famous for the fact that it is here that almost all the world’s known varieties of this flower are collected and planted. In addition, they grow not on plantations, but on flower beds, which looks incredibly beautiful. If garden visitors like any of the flower varieties, they have the opportunity to purchase it in the form of seedlings, but it is quite difficult to transport them because special documents are needed. In any case, the garden is worth a visit, because it is very beautiful here, and the cost of the excursion is relatively inexpensive.
        • Thalang National Museum. This is a huge museum with various historical models and exhibitions. An excursion to this museum will interest everyone who is interested in the history of different cultures. The main exhibitions of the museum illustrate the culture, history and tradition of three Asian countries - Thailand, China and India. Also in the museum there are many different historical monuments, antique materials and various things found by historians and archaeologists of the country.

Photo: 500px.com by Justin Nowell

Thailand is recognized as one of the best beach resorts according to National Geographic. But the beaches are not the only beautiful side of the Kingdom. The refined architecture of temples, the romance of the old streets of Nong Khai and the morning flair of Chiang Mai - all this is in our selection of the 10 most charming cities in the Kingdom

Ayutthaya

Ancient city, which at one time was at the intersection trade routes from China, India and the Malay Archipelago, included in the list World Heritage UNESCO. Like all former great city-states, now well-kept ruins, it attracts people with imagination. Yes, you will need to imagine what Ayutthaya was like in 1350, although the city is very well preserved! By the way, you can visit it as part of a one-day trip from Bangkok.


Ayutthaya city, Thailand. Photo: 500px.com by Alexander Kozlov

Chiang Rai

It is located in the north of the country, which distances it from the crowds of sea tourists. Here is the exquisitely crafted White Temple, whose vaults are decorated with stucco in the form of bones and skulls, and the interior is futuristic. In Chiang Rai, you can stay longer than a day to try rock climbing, bike the streets and buy unusual souvenirs at local fairs.


Wat Rong Khun Chiang Rai. Photo: 500px.com by Noppera Bosri

Chiang Mai

Another representative of the North, where you can relax slowly. The second largest city in Thailand after Bangkok, Chiang Mai often serves as a transit point for excursions to the villages of mountain tribes (you probably remember the Karen, who consider a long neck to be the ideal of female beauty) or a trip to the jungle. But you can explore the city itself for weeks! The most vivid memories are left by the surrounding area.


Photo: jjttravel.com

Krabi

"Classic beauty of Thailand" - best description for this place. You can easily get to Krabi, in just 15 minutes, from Phuket, since the island is located very close to the province of the same name. Temples and authentic markets await you in the city, and the surrounding area is crystal clear pure water, white sands, waterfalls, wild beaches, steep cliffs. Plus, it has the most stunning sea sunsets in the country!


Kanchanaburi

The city is located in the west of Thailand. Kanchanaburi is a historical place: during the Second World War there was a famous prisoner of war camp, a base for the construction railway Thailand - Burma, known as the "road of death". The most popular attraction is the Bridge over the River Kwai, about which Hollywood director David Lean made a film that won seven Oscars.


Waterfall in Kanchanaburi. Photo: 500px.com by Prasit Rodphan

Sukhothai

Former capital Thailand is open to everyone who loves “time travel”. In Sukhothai, you can rent a bicycle and ride around the ancient city early in the morning. They say nothing beats the sight of a Buddha statue against the backdrop of the rising sun!


Sukhothai historical park. Photo: 500px.com by Anek S

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The small town in the north of the Kingdom is easily accessible from Chiang Mai, especially since the scenery along the way is beautiful. Pai is surrounded by hot springs, jungles, waterfalls. It can be compared to one of the Alpine towns, only much warmer and with streets filled with Asian exoticism.


Yellow house in Pai. Photo: 500px.com by Josan Jo

Samed

The island is famous cleanest beaches and turquoise waters. Despite the preservation of nature, Samed has a vibrant nightlife and is ready to offer you a meal in one of dozens of restaurants. Its small locality difficult to call it a city, but if you are looking exotic place for life with the benefits of civilization near Bangkok, Samed - the best option!


Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park. Photo: 500px.com by Taweesak Boonwirut

Nong Khai

Original city on the banks of the Mekong allows you to see the sacred essence of Thailand. There is the historical park of Phu Phra Bat, and in the surrounding area there are several temples. Relatively recently, a road-railway bridge connecting Thailand with Laos was built here.


Thai-Lao Friendship bridge. Photo: 500px.com by Karel Fransen

Phetchaburi

The ancient city, located southwest of Bangkok, is a treasure trove for history and architecture lovers. The former royal palace and temples are maintained in full tourist readiness. One of the most visited places is the Khao Luang cave with a sanctuary inside.


Natural Spotlight. Photo: 500px.com by Puniest Rojanapo

Which Thai city do you think is the most beautiful? Share your opinions in the comments!

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