Guest Article from Travelwyse.co.uk
Think of Thailand and you probably think of backpackers, full moon parties, cheap booze and Leo DiCaprio faffing around with some French chick underwater, right? Well, think again.
Think of Thailand and you probably think of backpackers, full moon parties, cheap booze and Leo DiCaprio faffing around with some French chick underwater, right? Well, think again.
This South East Asian island actually has so much more to offer the traveller who dares to venture off the usual tourist trodden trail. If you're all geared up for a holiday in Thailand and ready to get stuck into all the hidden gems this piece of paradise has to offer, then listen up.
Here’s my pick of the best undiscovered spots Thailand has to offer…
Greater Khanom
Pack up your flip-flops and sunscreen, because Thailand is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Greater Khanom, a short boat ride from Koh Samui, is no exception. It’s particularly special because the hordes of tourists are yet to discover this pristine, white-sanded slice of heaven. Head down to the deserted shores where you can enjoy the sparkling clear waters and perhaps spot one or two of the area's pink dolphins.
Secret Buddha Garden
The secret garden is another hidden treasure to be found in the hills of Koh Samui. Walking into this hidden oasis is like walking into a different world entirely. With greenery, streams, waterfalls and endless grinning carved stone statues waiting to greet you around every twist and turn, this place has such an eerie, mystical feel to it. The magical feel of the secret Buddha Garden is something that will stay with you for a long time.
Buatong Waterfall
The amazing kaleidoscope of colours that hang in the air as water from this waterfall catches the light is a sight I'll never forget. Nestled amongst the lush mountains of Chiang Mai, you can swim in the pools by the base of the waterfall too, which although a little chilly, is a must! After all, what holiday in Thailand is complete without swimming in a waterfall pool?
Khao Mai Kaew Cave
Feeling brave and agile? On the sleepy island of Koh Lanta you'll find a Lara Croft-esque adventure waiting for you in this underground labyrinth of dark, damp caves. Wear trainers and be prepared to climb and descend in equal measure, then feast your eyes on the dramatic stalagmites and stalactites of this cavernous undiscovered world. Just watch out for those naughty bats…
Wat Khao Sukim Buddhist Temple
Again, no holiday in Thailand can be called complete without a visit to one of the many fascinating Buddhist temples. Without a doubt, my pick of the bunch is Wat Khao Sukim, propped on top of a mountain in Chanthaburi. Rows and rows of golden Buddhas cast their eyes over you as you make your way to the summit, where you'll find a temple positively crammed with ancient artefacts and religious statues of all shapes and sizes. I was lucky enough to meet a Thai monk here and received a blessing from him, the whole experience was very life affirming.
So those are my favourite undiscovered spots in Thailand. If you make the effort to visit them on your holiday to Thailand you certainly won't be disappointed. Take a little detour from the usual tourist trail and find a few hidden wonders of your own. After all, the intrepid traveller always has the best stories to tell!
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