You’ve seen The Beach. You’ve pictured yourself sipping something sweet out of a coconut while the crystalline waters lap against the limestone karsts. You know Thailand’s a looker; but this place isn’t just about beaches. From thick jungles to mountain vistas, golden temples to jade-coloured lakes, beauty comes in many forms in this part of the world. So, in honour of Contiki trips to Thailand being BACK. ON. here’s my pick of the most beautiful destinations in Thailand.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Around 70km from Chiang Mai you’ll find Doi Inhtanon, a National Park boasting rushing waterfalls, emerald cloud forests and winding hiking trails. Basically, if you’re looking for the biodiverse beauty in Thailand, this is the place to be. The park’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon mountain, forms part of the Himalayan Mountain Range, but the jewels in its crown has to be the showstopping temples, Naphamethinidon and Naphaphonphumisiri, located near the summit.
A few years ago I took my scooter up the snaking mountain passes to catch the sunset from Naphamethinidon. All I could hear was birdsong as the wide golden sky opened above the forest below. In that moment I couldn’t care less about palm trees or full moon parties. Thailand’s northern region is seriously underrated, so make sure you explore as much as you can next time you visit.
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