Bucket list things to do in Thailand: Your ultimate guide

So, you’ve decided to visit Thailand, a country where religious temples, diverse forests, beaches, and spicy foods create a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Good choice! You probably have questions, though. What are some of the bucket list things to do in Thailand? Which of Thailand’s islands are best to visit, what cultural landmarks are most important, and what unique experiences have you not even considered adding to your itinerary?

From watching a Muay Thai match in Bangkok to taking in the glow of bioluminescent plankton at Phang Nga Bay, this guide will walk you through the eight attractions you can’t miss out on while in Thailand.

Climb the Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi

Make your way up 1,260 stairs to reach the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Seua), the highest-located temple in all of Krabi. Take in the panoramic views of Thailand’s evergreen forests and limestone cliffs, peer up at the large golden Buddha statue, and enjoy the quiet, meditative atmosphere.

Insider tips

• Watch out for the monkeys — they make for stealthy phone thieves!
• Remember to take your shoes off before you enter the temple at the top of the stairs.

Address

Wat Tham Suea, 35 Krabi Noi, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand.

Opening hours

Open daily, 6:00 AM-6:00 PM

Take a long-tail boat ride through Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Hop on a long-tail boat and glide along bustling canals where vendors sell fresh fruits, snacks, and souvenirs. From getting your hands on mango sticky rice to taking a bite out of a coconut pancake, this is one of the things you should do in Thailand at least once in your life.

Insider tips

• Prioritize local, authentic, boat-made meals over touristy restaurants for a proper taste of Thai cuisine.
• Combine your experience with a visit to the nearby Maeklong Railway Market.

Address

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand.

Opening hours

Open daily, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

See a Muay Thai match and cheer on the skilled champions

From witnessing an authentic Muay Thai match at Bangkok’s Rajadamnern Stadium, the birthplace of this martial art, to discovering boxing stadiums in Phuket, Chiang Mai, or Koh Samui, watching Muay Thai fighters in action makes for a fun cultural experience.

Insider tips

• The seats can fill up quickly, so make sure to book in advance and arrive early to secure a spot with a good view.
• Muay Thai is a highly respected martial art in Thailand, so remember to act accordingly.

Address

Rajadamnern Muay Thai Stadium, 8 Ratchadamnoen Nok Rd, เเขวง วัดโสมนัส, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100, Thailand.

Opening hours

Open daily, 6:00 AM-10:30 PM

Discover the ancient Siamese capital of Ayutthaya

If you find yourself in Bangkok, don’t forget to tick off another once-in-a-lifetime thing to do in Thailand: a visit to the historic city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once there, explore the historical churches and ruins and learn more about Thai history.

Insider tips

• Don’t miss out on Wat Phra Mahathat, where the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots is located.
• After your tour, head to the Ayothaya Floating Market for some food and souvenirs.

Address

Ayutthaya Historical Park, Pratu Chai Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand.

Opening hours

Open daily, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM

Scale Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand

Reach the summit of Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak, at 8,415 feet above sea level. And while you’re visiting Doi Inthanon National Park, why not go see cascading waterfalls, take a stroll in the scenic surroundings, and admire the architecture of the Twin Pagodas?

Insider tips

• It can get quite cold at the summit, so bring an extra layer of clothing.
• Depending on your itinerary, you might be doing quite a bit of hiking — comfortable shoes are a must!

Address

Doi Inthanon National Park, 119 Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand.

Opening hours

Open daily, 5:00 AM-6:00 PM

Canoe through the limestone caves of Phang Nga Bay

Take in cinematic landscapes, canoe through hidden caves, visit the famous James Bond island, and see Phang Nha Bay’s bioluminescent plankton glow in shimmering blue once the sun sets. Sounds good? Just like that, you’ve crossed another one off your bucket list of things to do in Thailand.

Insider tips

• Bring a waterproof bag. Your phone will thank you later.
• Speaking of which, bring a change of clothes. Better be safe than sorry!
• Join a guided tour to explore the area with the help of a local guide. They’ll make sure to show you hidden lagoons and caves at the right tide level.

Opening hours

Open 24 hours
Access depends on weather conditions, tides, and tour operators.

Visit Chiang Rai’s White, Blue, and Red Temples

Chiang Rai is one of the best places in Thailand to visit, and here’s why: its temples are artistic masterpieces that will leave you in awe. The White Temple, known as Wat Rong Khun, is especially stunning, with mesmerizing glasswork and an all-white design that symbolizes purity.

Insider tips

• Don’t miss out on the striking statue of Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, at the Red Temple (Wat Huay Pla Kang).
• Stop at the Mae Kachan Hot Springs for a restful break.

Address

Wat Rong Khun, Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand.

Opening hours

Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) is open daily, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM.
Wat Huay Pla Kang (Red Temple) is open daily, 7:00 AM-9:00 PM.
Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) is open daily, 7:00 AM-8:00 PM.

Discover the underwater world surrounding Phi Phi Islands

Ever seen ”The Beach” (2000)? This famous movie was filmed in Maya Bay, an iconic beach on the Phi Phi Islands. Alongside Monkey Beach, Bamboo Island, and Pi Leh Lagoon, it makes for a spectacular place to snorkel, snap underwater photos, and experience Thailand’s vibrant marine life. And if you’re on the lookout for nightlife bucket list things to do in Thailand, you’ll be glad to know that Phi Phi is a renowned party spot.

Insider tips

• Bring a bottle of water with you. Snorkeling can get quite strenuous.
• Go snorkeling with a local guide to uncover the best-hidden gems and vibrant coral reefs.

Opening hours

Open 24 hours
Access depends on weather conditions, tides, and tour operators.