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Travel and Tour World Emirates Holidays Boosts Thailand Travel With New Pass Offering Discounts VIP Lounges and MoreTravel and Tour World Thailand Expands Transit Travel Plans With City Food and Wellness Trips for Eligible Layover PassengersTravel and Tour World Laos Neighboring Nations Spark Record Breaking Visitor Surges Throughout For Ultimate Travel Discovery, Find Out NowTravel and Tour World Thailand’s Phuket Surges Towards Global City Status as THB214 Billion Mega Projects and 4,166 New Homes Ignite a Major Urban TransformationTravel and Tour World Turkey Aligns Thailand and Others Used to Face Ages for Visa to South Africa and Now ETA Slash Processing Times and a Lot MoreTravel and Tour World Southern Thailand Proves Why Smart Travel Lovers Are Trading Crowded Beaches For Soulful Culture In Nakhon Si Thammarat Along With PhuketThe Independent Travel Why you should swap the Thai islands for this underrated Malaysian beach escapeConde Nast Traveler 15 Best Resorts in Thailand: Readers’ Choice Awards 2026VisaVerge Thailand LTR Visa Hits 12,000 Approvals, Adding USD 1.28 Billion as Board of Investment Attracts Highly Skilled ProfessionalsThe Flight Deal Cathay Pacific: New York – Koh Samui, Thailand. $898. Roundtrip, including all TaxesLoyalty Lobby Award Success: Cathay Pacific Asia Miles Mixed Class Bangkok-Hong Kong-SeoulHospitality Net Minor Hotels Launches Life Longevity, One Wellness Brand for Every Season of LifeSimple Flying Finnair's Record-Breaking 24-Hour Direct Flights Launch Soon: See Route NowThe Independent Travel Anger in Bangkok over inaction to tackle flooding threat as death toll rises to 31Travel and Tour World Emirates Holidays Boosts Thailand Travel With New Pass Offering Discounts VIP Lounges and MoreTravel and Tour World Thailand Expands Transit Travel Plans With City Food and Wellness Trips for Eligible Layover PassengersTravel and Tour World Laos Neighboring Nations Spark Record Breaking Visitor Surges Throughout For Ultimate Travel Discovery, Find Out NowTravel and Tour World Thailand’s Phuket Surges Towards Global City Status as THB214 Billion Mega Projects and 4,166 New Homes Ignite a Major Urban TransformationTravel and Tour World Turkey Aligns Thailand and Others Used to Face Ages for Visa to South Africa and Now ETA Slash Processing Times and a Lot MoreTravel and Tour World Southern Thailand Proves Why Smart Travel Lovers Are Trading Crowded Beaches For Soulful Culture In Nakhon Si Thammarat Along With PhuketThe Independent Travel Why you should swap the Thai islands for this underrated Malaysian beach escapeConde Nast Traveler 15 Best Resorts in Thailand: Readers’ Choice Awards 2026VisaVerge Thailand LTR Visa Hits 12,000 Approvals, Adding USD 1.28 Billion as Board of Investment Attracts Highly Skilled ProfessionalsThe Flight Deal Cathay Pacific: New York – Koh Samui, Thailand. $898. Roundtrip, including all TaxesLoyalty Lobby Award Success: Cathay Pacific Asia Miles Mixed Class Bangkok-Hong Kong-SeoulHospitality Net Minor Hotels Launches Life Longevity, One Wellness Brand for Every Season of LifeSimple Flying Finnair's Record-Breaking 24-Hour Direct Flights Launch Soon: See Route NowThe Independent Travel Anger in Bangkok over inaction to tackle flooding threat as death toll rises to 31
Chiang Mai – ThailandBangkok – ThailandPhuket – ThailandKrabi – ThailandAyutthaya – ThailandKoh Samui – Thailand
📍 Chiang Mai📷 Nawit science · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
🌍 Asia🗓️ Best: Nov–Feb

Thailand ✓

PhuketBangkok

Golden temples, island beaches and world-famous food

🕒 –:– local time35 stories this week13 sources 6 top placesCapital Bangkok

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Thailand📸 Photo album · 9 photos · Ultra-HD
Thailand📜 History of Thailand

The story of Thailand

Thailand's past reaches deep into prehistory: at Ban Chiang in the northeast, archaeologists uncovered painted pottery and some of Southeast Asia's early bronze tools. Over many centuries, Mon and Khmer kingdoms flourished in the region, spreading Buddhism and Hindu-inspired art, while Tai peoples gradually migrated south from what is now southern China, founding small city-states in the northern valleys.

In the thirteenth century the kingdom of Sukhothai rose to power and is celebrated as the birthplace of Thai identity, credited with developing the Thai script and graceful Buddhist art. It was eclipsed by Ayutthaya, founded in 1351, which grew into one of Asia's great trading capitals, welcoming merchants from China, Japan, Persia and Europe. In the north, the Lanna kingdom centred on Chiang Mai developed its own distinct culture. Ayutthaya was destroyed by Burmese forces in 1767, but the kingdom was quickly restored, and in 1782 the Chakri dynasty founded a new capital at Bangkok.

Read the full history

Thailand, then known as Siam, holds the rare distinction of never having been colonised by a European power. Skilful diplomacy and modernisation under kings such as Mongkut and Chulalongkorn helped preserve its independence while borders were reshaped by Britain and France. In 1932 a revolution ended absolute monarchy and established a constitutional monarchy, and in 1939 the country took the name Thailand. The decades since have seen rapid economic growth alongside periods of political change.

Today Thailand is one of the world's most popular destinations, blending deep Buddhist traditions with dynamic modern cities. Visitors can explore the ruined temples of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, the gilded palaces of Bangkok and the mountain temples of Chiang Mai, then head to dazzling islands and beaches. Respect for the monarchy and religion runs deep, and the famous Thai hospitality makes every journey memorable.

Timeline

  1. c. 2000–1000 BCBronze-working communities thrive at Ban Chiang
  2. 1238The kingdom of Sukhothai is founded
  3. 1351Ayutthaya is established and becomes a major trading power
  4. 1767Ayutthaya is destroyed by Burmese forces
  5. 1782The Chakri dynasty founds Bangkok as the capital
  6. 1932A revolution creates a constitutional monarchy
  7. 1939Siam is renamed Thailand
Thailand 🛂 Visa & entry

Entry rules depend on your passport and change often.

  • ASEAN – ASEAN member – many Southeast Asian citizens have easier short visits.

Before you book, check the official rules for your passport:

The latest visa and entry news for Thailand appears below as soon as publishers report it.

Thailand✨ 10 best things to do in Thailand

Things to do in Thailand

  1. Explore Bangkok's Grand PalaceWander among glittering spires and the revered Emerald Buddha in the heart of the old city.
  2. Cruise the Chao Phraya RiverTake a river boat past temples like Wat Arun as Bangkok's skyline lights up at dusk.
  3. Visit Ayutthaya's ruinsCycle between crumbling brick temples and Buddha heads entwined in tree roots in the former royal capital.
  4. Take a Thai cooking classLearn to make green curry, som tam and pad thai using fresh herbs from local markets.
  5. Island-hop the Andaman SeaSail among limestone cliffs and turquoise lagoons around Krabi, Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay.
  6. Experience Chiang Mai's templesClimb to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for views over the city and explore the moated old town's many temples.
  7. Visit an ethical elephant sanctuaryObserve rescued elephants roaming freely at a sanctuary that does not offer riding or performances.
  8. Shop at a night marketGraze on street food, sip fresh fruit shakes and browse crafts at lively evening markets.
  9. Dive or snorkel Koh TaoLearn to dive or snorkel among coral reefs and tropical fish in the Gulf of Thailand.
  10. Get a traditional Thai massageUnwind with a centuries-old technique of stretches and pressure points, ideally at a temple school like Wat Pho.
Thailand🗺️ Where to visit in Thailand

Where to go in Thailand

  • BangkokCentral Thailand · capitalA thrilling capital of royal palaces, riverside temples, street food and rooftop bars.
  • Chiang MaiNorthern Thailand · cultureA relaxed, temple-filled city surrounded by mountains, perfect for cooking classes and trekking.
  • AyutthayaCentral Thailand · historic cityThe atmospheric ruins of a once-mighty capital, easily reached from Bangkok.
  • 📍
    SukhothaiLower north · ancient capitalA peaceful historical park of lotus ponds and serene Buddha statues.
  • KrabiAndaman coast · beaches & cliffsDramatic limestone karsts, rock climbing and beaches like Railay, plus easy access to island tours.
  • 📍
    Koh Phi PhiAndaman Sea · islandsPostcard-perfect bays and lively beaches, with nearby Maya Bay famous for its beauty.
  • 📍
    Koh Samui and Koh PhanganGulf of Thailand · islandsPalm-fringed beaches, from upscale retreats on Samui to the famous Full Moon Party on Phangan.
  • 📍
    PaiMae Hong Son · mountain townA laid-back valley town loved by backpackers for hot springs, canyons and waterfalls.
Thailand✨ Must-do experiences
  • Take a longtail boat to island beaches
  • Take a Thai cooking class
  • Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary
  • Celebrate Songkran or Loy Krathong festivals
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Thailand🍽️ Taste of Thailand
  • Pad thai – stir-fried rice noodles with egg and peanuts
  • Tom yum goong – hot and sour shrimp soup
  • Green curry – coconut curry with Thai basil
  • Mango sticky rice – sweet sticky rice with fresh mango
Thailand🌦️ Weather & best time to visit Thailand

Best time to visit Thailand

Thailand is tropical, with a cool dry season, a hot season and a monsoon season. The Gulf of Thailand coast around Koh Samui has a different pattern, with its wettest months around October to December.

BestNovember to February – the cool, dry season brings sunshine and pleasant temperatures across most of the country.
ShoulderMarch to May – very hot, but still dry and good for beaches; the Gulf islands stay relatively dry into the summer.
AvoidSeptember to October – the peak of the rainy season brings heavy downpours and rough seas on the Andaman coast.
32°☀️Jan
33°☀️Feb
34°💧Mar
35°💧Apr
34°💧💧May
33°💧💧Jun
33°💧💧Jul
33°💧💧Aug
32°💧💧💧Sep
32°💧💧💧Oct
32°💧Nov
31°☀️Dec

Typical daytime highs and rain in Bangkok (approximate averages).

Thailand🎉 Festivals & events in Thailand
  • April
    SongkranThe Thai New Year turns the whole country into a joyful water fight, alongside temple visits and family gatherings.
  • November
    Loy KrathongPeople float candlelit baskets on rivers and lakes under the full moon to give thanks and let go of misfortune.
  • November
    Yi PengChiang Mai's lantern festival fills the night sky with glowing paper lanterns.
  • September–October
    Phuket Vegetarian FestivalA dramatic Taoist festival with processions, firecrackers and strict vegetarian food.
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Thailand🧭 Thailand itinerary ideas

How many days in Thailand?

5 daysBangkok and Ayutthaya

Days 1-3 explore Bangkok's Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, markets and river. Day 4 take a day trip to the ruins of Ayutthaya. Day 5 shop at a weekend or night market and enjoy a final rooftop sunset.

14 daysTemples, mountains and islands

Days 1-3 discover Bangkok. Days 4-5 visit Ayutthaya and Sukhothai on the way north. Days 6-9 enjoy Chiang Mai's temples, a cooking class and an elephant sanctuary. Days 10-14 fly south to Krabi for island hopping, beaches and snorkelling.

Thailand🎒 Backpacking Thailand – tips & hacks

Backpacker budget: about $30–45 a day

  • Overnight trains and buses between Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the south save both money and a night's accommodation.
  • Bangkok's Khao San Road area, Chiang Mai's old town, Pai and Koh Phangan are classic backpacker hubs packed with hostels.
  • Street food and market stalls offer delicious meals for very little – follow the locals to the busiest vendors.
  • Use ride-hailing apps or insist on the meter in Bangkok taxis to avoid inflated fares.
  • Travel in the shoulder season for cheaper rooms and fewer crowds on the islands.
Thailand🛡️ Safety & money in Thailand

Stay safe

  • Wear a helmet and have proper insurance if you ride a scooter – road accidents are a major risk for tourists.
  • Be wary of common scams, such as being told an attraction is closed or being steered to gem shops.
  • Never make negative comments about the monarchy, as strict laws apply, and dress modestly at temples.
  • Drink responsibly at beach parties and keep an eye on your drink and belongings.

Money

  • The currency is the Thai baht; ATMs are everywhere but usually charge a fee for foreign cards, so withdraw larger amounts less often.
  • Cards are accepted in malls, hotels and many restaurants, but cash is needed for street food, markets and small shops.
  • Tipping is not obligatory, but leaving small change or rounding up for good service is appreciated.

Emergency: 191 police · 1669 ambulance · 199 fire · 1155 tourist police

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Thailand🛬 Getting to Thailand

Most travellers arrive at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang airports, with international flights also serving Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi and Koh Samui. Land borders connect Thailand with Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.

✈️ Cheap flights to Thailand: airports, flight times & best time to fly →

Thailand💡 Did you know? 5 facts about Thailand
  • Bangkok's full ceremonial name is one of the longest place names in the world.
  • Thailand is the only Southeast Asian nation never colonised by a European power.
  • The Thai alphabet has 44 consonants.
  • It is considered rude to touch someone's head or point your feet at people or Buddha images.
  • Thailand is one of the world's leading exporters of rice.
Thailand❓ Thailand travel FAQ

Thailand travel questions

Is Thailand safe for tourists?

Thailand is generally safe and very welcoming to visitors. The biggest risks are road accidents, scams and petty theft, so take sensible precautions and check your government's latest travel advice, including for the far southern provinces.

When is the best time to visit Thailand?

November to February is the most comfortable time, with cooler, drier weather. The islands can be visited much of the year, but the Andaman and Gulf coasts have different rainy seasons.

How many days do you need in Thailand?

Five days covers Bangkok and Ayutthaya, while two weeks lets you combine the north with the islands. Many backpackers stay a month or more.

Do I need a visa for Thailand?

It depends on your passport – check the official government site or Thai embassy before you travel. Entry rules can change, so confirm before your trip.

Is Thailand good for budget travellers?

Yes, Thailand is one of the best value destinations in Asia, with cheap street food, hostels and transport. Costs are higher on popular islands and in high season.

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Thailand💰 What a trip costs
$price level
$30–45backpacker / day
$80–150mid-range / day

Approximate daily cost per person (stay, food, local transport).

Thailand🚌 Getting around

Cheap domestic flights, overnight trains and buses link regions, and ferries serve the islands. In cities, use the Bangkok BTS/MRT, tuk-tuks, taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Thailand🛕 Sacred & spiritual places
  • Wat Phra Kaew – Temple of the Emerald Buddha in the Grand Palace grounds
  • Wat Arun – Temple of Dawn with a tall porcelain-covered spire by the river
  • Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – Golden mountain temple overlooking Chiang Mai
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Thailand🤝 Local etiquette
  • Never speak badly about the royal family
  • Dress modestly and remove shoes at temples
  • Don't touch people's heads or point your feet at people or Buddha images

📰 Older Thailand stories Everything our agents ever found – keeps loading as you scroll

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