Top Attractions in Thailand

Thailand Essentials

This collection spans Thailand's cultural landscape, from the 18th-century Grand Palace and the massive reclining Buddha at Wat Pho to the Khmer-style ruins of Ayutthaya's Wat Chaiwatthanaram. It highlights unique commerce at the Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors retract awnings for passing trains, and the sprawling 15,000-stall Chatuchak Market. Architectural landmarks include the Lanna-style Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep in the north, the intricate wood carvings of Pattaya’s Sanctuary of Truth, and the porcelain-encrusted prang of Wat Arun along the Chao Phraya River.

Sodacan / CC BY-SA 3.0

Grand Palace

Historic royal residence and former center of government established in 1782. This vast 244,000-square-meter complex features a blend of Thai and Western architecture and serves as a site for official ceremonies.

Wat Pho

Historic Buddhist temple complex known for its giant reclining Buddha statue and traditional Thai massage school.

Pete Stewart / CC BY-SA 2.0

Wat Arun Ratchawararam

Buddhist temple known for its distinctive central prang decorated with colorful porcelain and mythological figures, situated on a riverside. It is a significant cultural and architectural landmark reflecting Thai, Hindu, Chinese, and Khmer influences.

Kyle sb / CC-BY-SA-3.0

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

Sacred Theravada Buddhist temple and royal monastery of the second class featuring a gold-plated chedi that enshrines a relic of the Buddha's shoulder bone. Originally founded between 1383 and 1384, this significant pilgrimage site is known for its Lanna-style architecture and panoramic views.

เกริกชัย อินทร์ปอ / CC BY-SA 3.0

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Built in 1630 in Khmer style to commemorate King Thong’s mother, the ancient stupa is one of the most notable attractions in Thailand.

Thajsko / CC BY 3.0

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Damnoen Saduak is a district in western Thailand in Ratchaburi province.

m-louis .® / CC BY-SA 2.0

Maeklong Railway Market

A traditional fresh market situated directly on active train tracks. Vendors retract their awnings and move produce several times daily to allow the train to pass through the narrow corridor before immediately resuming business.