Wonders of Thailand | Culture, Corals and Coastlines

Located 15 km away from Chiang Mai, this temple is famed for the serenity it offers. Frequented by the Thai people this sacred site is also known as the Doi Suthep, which is the name of the mountain on which it stands. This gleaming mountainside temple features a mighty golden structure of Buddha and extends the panoramic views of the entire city. Here you can witness all kinds of beauties be it in the terms of nature or intricate carvings, this place lacks nowhere and is a true delight for the soul. Being one of the most striking places to visit in Chiang Mai, this place has several shrines, temples and magnificent statues. Location: Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang MaiTimings: 6 am to 6 pm

It is yet another secluded beach in Thailand, situated in the city of Krabi. Railay beach is a beautiful seashore with tranquil white sand and clear seas. The beach is located in just one small peninsula with large limestone cliffs, lagoons, caves, and viewpoints.This spectacular peninsula is just cut off from the main Krabi city because of it being covered with the limestone headlands and deep jungle valleys. Highlights:  If you are in a search of a lazy and peaceful day or chilled-out evenings, heading on to Railay beach will be a good option.  All the lagoons, caves, and cliffs are within walking distance so that you can enjoy anywhere on the beach. Location: In between Krabi and Ao Nang Getting There: With no roads, no buses, no cars, the only way to reach the Railay beach is via longtail boats because the beach is accessible only by sea.

Koh Poda, part of a tiny extensive group of islands in Krabi province off the west coast of Thailand, ranks among the most picturesque of the many uninhabited and semi-inhabited islands that line the coast.Long tail boats drop visitors off along a stretch of sugar soft, white sand beach, famous for its clear waters and stunning views off offshore limestone formations. Thanks to its west-facing beach, the area is particularly lovely around sunset.Highlights: Tropical fish are visible in the waters just off the beach. Just a little further out of the island is an excellent spot for snorkeling with corals reefs.Location: Situated at a distance of 8kilometerss from Ao NangGetting There: The only way to reach Koh Poda is by boat. The visitors are required to pay a small fee to the operators who arrange their journey to the island.

This place is a must-visit for adventure lovers. The park forms part of the Doi Inthanon mountain range, a part of the mighty Himalayas. There are many small and big peaks here with heights of about 865m to 2565m above sea level. Doi Intahnon is the tallest mountain in Thailand. Highlights - The view from here is absolutely stunning. Take a trek through to the peaks, enjoy the early morning sunrise, waterfalls and don’t miss the Siamese sakura flowers in full bloom during the months of December & January. Main camp site, the tall summit, Two huge stupas (Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon & Nophamethanidon), Kaew Mae Pan Nature Trails, Bird-watching, large number of waterfalls and Brichinda Cave are the major highlights.Location - Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang MaiTimings: 5:30am to 6:30pm

Built during the rule of King Saen Muang Ma in the 15th Century, Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai. If you are a history buff or an architecture aficionado, you are going to love a short visit to this magnificent temple complex. Though the tests of time have diminished its original grace, the temple still stands imposing and impressive. Due to its great religious significance among the locals, it is also visited in great numbers by devotees, especially at Visakha Buja. In addition to a unique style of architecture, an emerald image of Lord Buddha, a pillar and a gum tree are the focal points for tourists here.Location: 103 Prapokkloa Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang MaiTimings: 6 am to 5 pmEntry Fee: Free

Rejuvenate each and every segment of your body at the emerald pool, where the water comes from the hot springs and the entire zone is hot bedded. From all the four corners it is surrounded by the trails of greens and hails out to nature lovers.Highlights: The key features of this emerald pool is its location, which is, it is seated right in the heart of lush green forests and is surrounded by a wooden track which adds up to the charm of the place.Location: Khlong Thom Nuea, Khlong Thom District, Krabi 81120, ThailandGetting There: Reaching out to the emerald pool is very easy, one can take a private cab to the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve, from here you have to take a small walk of 10 minutes to reach to the exact point.

One of the most attractive markets Chang Puak Hate Night Market is quite famous among the tourists. For all those who love to walk around the streets and check out different shops this is the ideal location. With outstanding collection of various goods like clothing, perfume, wood carvings and woodwork ornaments, shoes, street performers, belts, lanterns, candles, food stalls, sketch artists, house wares one can find it all here. It is quite crowded place and there are unique vendors who sells exclusive Thai foods which is quite delicious and mouth watering. Apart from this there are other stores of clothing, shoes, and accessories with reasonably good stock. Location: 248/70 Manee Nopparat Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai Timings: 5 pm - 12 am

Mu Koh Hong is not a single island but a cluster of limestone islands which includes popular islands like Lao Riam Pakka, Lao or Sa Ka Lao La Ding and not to forget the southern big island Lao Li Pe. The major attractions of these islands are its pictorial beauty consisting of white sandy beaches, amazing coral reefs, mesmerizing ambiance, pleasant climate, and crystal blue waters.For the adventure lovers, the destination provides equal entertainment with options for adventure sports like scuba diving, snorkeling etc. Fishing is one of the popular activities here as some of the unique fishes are available in the sea here. Another attraction close to the island is the Bok Khorani National Park which can be easily reached by boat ride.Highlights: Sea Canoeing & Kayaking Location: 46km from Krabi town. Getting There: You can reach here by speedboat