The Other Side of Thailand: Quiet Towns, Ancient Ruins, and Natural Beauty

Thailand is known worldwide for its vibrant cities, bustling markets, and tourist spots. There are a lot of destinations in Thailand that are much more than the well-trodden paths. From rolling mountain views and peaceful ancient ruins to idyllic islands and quaint northern towns, these undiscovered gems provide visitors with an exclusive chance to discover the lesser-known Thailand.

Let’s take a journey through some of Thailand’s lesser-known treasures where you will definitely make unforgettable memories:

This is the third-largest city in northern Thailand and capital of Lampang Province and the Mueang Lampang District. Lampang was a major city in the Lanna Kingdom, and now one can visit and see the preserved temples and buildings in Lanna-style architecture and what makes it even more unique is the use of teak wood in all the architecture.The city is famously known as “City of Horse Carriages,” because horse-drawn carriages still are a common means of transport in the city center, giving tourists a nostalgic feel.

Pai is a small town in northern Thailand’s Mae Hong Son Province and lies on the Pai River. This place was earlier a quiet market village and is now quite famous among backpackers for its relaxed atmosphere. Pai has grown into a tourism hub famous for cheap guesthouses, cafes, souvenir shops, and vibrant nightlife including live music venues and bars. Surrounding Pai are numerous hot springs such as Tha Pai Hot Spring and gracious waterfalls like Mo Paeng and Pam Bok Waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints like Yun Lai Viewpoint. The area also offers trekking opportunities to nearby hill tribe villages such as Karen, Hmong, Lisu, and Lahu, allowing tourists to experience local ethnic cultures. This place is a perfect blend of a small town with rich culture and easy access to nature-based activities, making it even more visit-worthy.

Sukhothai is in the valley of the Yom River in the lower north of Thailand. This province was named after the Sukhothai Kingdom that once ruled the area, and the name has Sanskrit terms which mean dawn of happiness. Here, the province’s temples and monuments have been well restored, and Sukhothai Historical Park is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historical park features the ruins of the ancient city and also has well-preserved temples, monuments, and statues. This place is protected under law as a key cultural heritage destination.

This hidden gem is a mountain area and a national forest park in Thailand. It is located in the Thoeng District, Chiang Rai Province. This place is famous for its breathtaking views over surrounding mountains and valleys. It is believed that Phu Chi Fah was once home to ancient tribes, such as the Akha or Hmong people. Locals call the ridge pointing to the sky “Chi Fa.” The main highlight of this location is its spectacular “sea of mist” phenomenon seen at sunrise during the cooler months, where valleys below are shrouded in mist. One should definitely visit this location around December to February for the best views. One famous spot along the route to Phu Chi Fa is the “Sakura Viewpoint,” popular during the winter bloom of Thai cherry blossoms (Prunus cerasoides), a carpet of pink along the roadsides, enhancing the scenic drive.

This place is a district in Krabi Province in Thailand. It consists of three major islands: Ko Klang, Ko Lanta Yai, and Ko Lanta Noi. Koh Lanta Yai is the main island amongst the three and is also a popular travel destination known mostly for its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty. The largest island (Ko Lanta Yai) has nine beaches in the entire west coast along the forests and tropical jungle. The islands here are known for their sandy beaches and scuba diving. Koh Lanta island maintains a laid-back and a low-key vibe contrary to other islands.