Here is a comprehensive list of the best things to do for a fun-filled and meaningful backpacking Thailand experience. This is your ultimate backpacker’s guide to Thailand.
Thailand is undoubtedly the tourism hub in Southeast Asia, welcoming millions of tourists every year.
Tourists will never run out of options to visit in this tropical paradise with its vast array of cultural, natural, and historical attractions.
It’s no wonder that backpackers often stop in Bangkok and other provinces in Thailand before traveling to nearby countries.
White sandy beaches, untamed jungles, and tropical forests, world-class diving sites, pristine rivers, streams with thriving marine life, authentic dishes, and extremely low prices.
These are just among the buzzwords associated with Thailand. Thus, many tourists consider it as the ultimate getaway for thrill, fun, and adventure.
There are always new places to explore in Thailand, and backpackers prove that. With vast swathes of Thailand‘s wilderness remaining unexplored, what more awaits visitors to this varied country?
For a backpacker, check out these cool things to do.
11 Best Things to Do for Backpackers in Thailand
Visit Wat Pho and the Grand Palace
Built at the end of the 18th century by King Rama I, the Grand Palace has served as the official residence of the royal family. Today, however, it’s mainly used for significant ceremonies.
The Grand Palace’s architecture is an attraction in itself. Within the complex, there are numerous temples with alluring designs such as Wat Pra Kaeo, which contains a pized 15th-century Emerald Buddha. Near the Grand Palace is another famed temple known as Wat Pho. It houses a giant statue of a reclining golden Buddha.
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Trek to Khao Sok National Park
Nestled in the southern part of Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is ranked as one of the top backpacking destinations in the country. With an entrance fee of only 200 baht, the park offers a multitude of activities for families, solo travelers, extreme adventurers, or backpackers.
The park hosts vast tropical forests that host unique flora and fauna species, including the iconic elephants, Asian bears, and leopards. It’s also home to various bird species such as the endangered hornbills.
Backpackers navigating the park will also glimpse many hidden waterfalls, mystical lakes, crystal-clear rivers, and stunning limestone karsts.
The peaks of the towering mountains are likewise ideal viewpoints for catching sunrise and sunset. There are also remote attractions hidden on challenging terrains, thus, making up to an ultimate getaway.
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Stroll around the ancient capitals
For backpackers who have a keen interest in history and culture, visiting Thailand’s three ancient capitals is a must-try. These are Ayutthaya, Lopburi, and Sukhothai, all nestled between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
For a day or two, tourists can visit some of the iconic destinations of these ancient cities and delve deeper into the rich cultural and historical heritage of Thailand.
With its endless list of stunning temples and prized landmarks, nothing beats a cultural backpacking Thailand’s experience. Make sure to consider this when planning your backpacking Thailand budget.
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Go hopping on Tropical Islands
Thailand boasts of more than 1000 islands, each offering unique features and experiences. Although overdevelopment affected the natural beauty of some islands, many generally remain off-beaten and unspoiled. These are ideal getaways for backpackers who prefer the less touristy options.
In most islands, expect lush forests and scenic mountains views complementing powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. Some islands also have nearby diving sites, brimming with colorful corals and thriving fish schools. The best islands for backpacking Thailand are Phuket, Ko Samui, Ko Tao, Ko Samet, Ko Jum, Ko Lanta, and Ko Phi Phi.
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Have Fun All Night Long during the Full Moon Party
While there are backpackers who prefer the off-beaten path, there are those seeking rowdy attractions and events. One of which is the internationally-acclaimed Full Moon Party.
With thousands attending, the party feels almost like a cultural festival. There is a lot of dancing, drinking, merry-making, and, sadly, drugs too. Numerous bars line the venue, each with sound systems blasting hyper music.
Along the beach, there are various performances staged, such as fire dancers entertaining crowds. Yes, it’s super touristy, but that does not mean there is no fun and thrill. For extroverted backpackers, it’s heavenly.
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Explore the Hidden Treasures of the Jungles
Jungle trekking is one of the best adventurers for backpackers visiting Thailand. The northern part of the country, in particular, is home to towering peaks with dense jungles and untamed trails.
Expect to navigate on thick vegetation, cross rivers and streams, clamber across the steep precipice, and hang unto roots and vines to reach the jungle treasures. Exhausting they may seem, these are experiences that will make up to a challenging and fulfilling adventure.
Tourists can also side trip to the so-called Hill Tribes settled on the northern mountains. These tribes consist of various ethnic groups with diverse cultures and traditions. Backpackers who brave the more distant jungles will glimpse of rare wildlife and flora species.
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Enjoy scuba diving at Similan Islands
The islands of Similan are the most popular sites for scuba diving in Thailand. Despite Similan’s popularity, some of its islands and beaches are generally raw and unspoiled by mass tourism.
The surrounding waters are also clean and crystal-clear, hosting a myriad of corals, fishes, sharks, and other marine species.
It’s considered the best diving spot in the country. After diving, tourists can then relax and enjoy its lovely beaches and wait for stunning sunset views. When visiting, don’t forget to see the iconic Elephant Head Rock.
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Contribute to Conservation at the Elephant Nature Park
We’ve all heard of animal abuses in Thailand, including elephants, as a result of mass tourism. Surely you don’t want to add to that problem.
A better option for backpackers or tourists is then at the Elephant Conservation Center near Chiang Mai. Here, elephants are not chained and are allowed to roam free to bathe on rivers or wallow in mud and feed on grass. Tourists can have close interactions with them naturally.
What’s the good thing about this? Aside from the healthy interactions, every penny the tourists give help in the protection and conservation of these endangered species.
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Shop at the Floating Markets
Thailand teems with numerous markets selling locally-made products and goods. For backpackers looking for whimsical versions, check out the floating markets which are also found throughout Thailand.
Among the most popular options are Taling Chan Weekend Floating Garden, and Damnoen Saduak. Sure, the floating markets get quickly crowded. But nothing beats the authenticity of experiencing the rowdy side of Thailand.
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Go for a Backpacking Adventure in Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi province also hosts pristine forests and towering peaks. Therefore, it makes up for a challenging and fulfilling backpacking Thailand experience. One of the historic spots here is the infamous Death Railway connecting Thailand and Myanmar. Prisoners of war built this during World War II and thousands of them perished during the construction phase.
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Take the motorbike through Northern Thailand
Backpacking Thailand would not be complete without trying a motorbike. Northern Thailand, in particular, features ideal terrains and trails for a motorcycle.
Not only will tourists get to experience the thrill and fun of it, but they will also have a glimpse of panoramic mountain views and untouched wilderness.
So those are just some of the can’t-miss things to do for backpackers visiting Thailand. Make sure to add them to your itinerary for a backpacking experience you will never forget.
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