What is Thailand Famous For?

According to the number of 2019 visitor arrivals, Thailand is the 8th most visited country in the world, with 39.8 million visitors annually. This breathtaking Southeast Asian paradise is known for its rich culture, Thai massages, Muay Thai, and mouthwatering endless cuisine options.

From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the magnificent rock pillars of Railey Beach, Thailand allures tourists, digital nomads, and expats alike, including me. I have journeyed to this beautiful country probably 10+ times and even embarked on a more significant two-month stay in Chiang Mai, otherwise known as Asia’s Digital Nomad Capital.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, this beautiful country really does have it all. And on top of everything, it is still a cheap getaway.

Get ready to fall in love with the spicy flavors of Thai food, the golden temples and ancient ruins, and the endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Here are the top 20 reasons Thailand is famous and why you should visit!

Thai Cuisine

1. Street food and markets

Out of the 65+ countries I’ve visited, I’d be hard-pressed to say that there is a better country in the world in terms of street food and the sheer number of markets. 

Markets are ubiquitous all over Thailand; however, nothing compares to those in the capital city of Bangkok! With so many choices at your fingertips, you’d literally never be able to finish eating your way through the city!

Bangkok is home to street food stalls tried by the likes of Anthony Bourdain to Michelin recommendations, enough so that you can sign up for a full “Michelin Guide Street Food Tour by Tuk Tuk” (4.7/5)

2. Thai dishes and Ingredients

Thailand is renowned for its delectable dishes that leave your taste buds tantalized. With its unique flavors and spices, Thai food can be found on almost every street corner.

Some famous traditional Thai food you must try:

• Pad Thai
• Pad See Ew (stir-fried flat rice noodles)
• Tom Yum Soup (spicy & sour soup)
• Kao Ka Moo (stewed pork leg *the best*)
• Khao Soi (northern style noodle)
• Papaya Salad
• Mango Sticky Rice
• Anything with coconut (coconut drinks, curries, ice cream)
• A daily juice or two! (some shops offer 100+ flavors to choose from)

 You should try a cooking class at least once in Thailand. Here are a few highly rated options in various cities around the country.
Chiang Mai
Bangkok
Krabi
Phuket

Many people are unaware that the cuisine of Thailand is highly regional, with unique ingredients and flavors used to create distinctly delicious dishes in each area.

Certain ingredients used in these dishes are widely available throughout Thailand, from pungent lemongrass and ginger root to sweet palm sugar and fiery chilies!

Tip! People eat spicy in Thailand. Besides “hi” and “thank you”, add “Mai Ped” – No Spicy to your Thai vocabulary.

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Thai Culture and Traditions

3. Buddhism and Temples

It is estimated that 95% of the population of Thailand practices Buddhism. As a result, there are thousands of temples (or “Wats”) that have become an integral part of Thai culture that can be found in almost every town and city in the country.

The most famous temple in Thailand is Wat Phra Kaew (or the Temple of Emerald Buddha), located in the precinct of the Grand Palace, Bangkok. This is considered one of the most important Buddhist temples in the world.

Chiang Mai, especially the Old City, is a veritable treasure trove of temples, so abundant that you will get “temple out” before you’ve seen them all! 

For history enthusiasts, UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ayutthaya and Sukhothai are brimming with remarkable Wat’s (temples) from centuries past. And Chiang Rai is home to the picturesque White Temple, an Instagram-worthy hotspot!

Looking to fill your Instagram with the coolest Thai temple?
That’s definitely gotta be the White Temple in Chiang Rai (Check out this 4.5/5 tour)

4. Festivals and Celebrations

Thailand is a country of festivals, with unique celebrations happening all year round. I’m blessed to have experienced two of the most remarkable festivals: Songkran and Loi Krathong in Chiang Mai. But hundreds more small-scale local celebrations scattered throughout the year honor anything from food to animals across Thailand!

During Songkran, I had the pleasure of being a part of one of the world’s largest water fights! Everyone gleefully threw buckets, water balloons, and water guns for three whole days. It’s amusing how the religious practice of sprinkling holy water has been transformed into something completely different.

On Loi Krathong, I admired the beautiful sight of lanterns crowding the night sky. People send positive vibes to the heavens with paper lanterns and flowery tributes that glisten on rivers or lakes, radiating light in all directions.

Another festival on the stranger side is the vegetarian festival or “Tak Bat Thevo”. Let me say that it has absolutely nothing to do with vegetables.

Check here for a full list of festivals to coincide with your visit. Many Thai festivals are according to the lunar calendar and, therefore, do not have yearly dates. 

5. Ethnic Hill Tribes (Long-Necked Tribes)

Thailand is home to an estimated 6 million people from various hill tribes, or the “long-necked” tribe, who have migrated from neighboring countries like China, Myanmar, and Laos.

You can learn about their culture and experience majestic mountain landscapes by visiting a few of these villages in northern Thailand, such as Long Neck Karen Village near Chiang Mai. 

Caveat! Many tourists raise serious questions about these villages, claiming that they’re no more than human zoos for tourism. Because they are technically refugees, these people also have little protection in the eyes of the Thai government.

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Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventures

6. Beaches and Stunning Islands

When you think of Thailand, likely the first thing that comes to mind is its incredible beaches and flaming sunsets. You wouldn’t be wrong, either! With stunningly crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, Thailand has some of the best beaches in the world.

Koh Samui, Phuket, and Krabi are arguably some of Thailand’s most famous beach destinations. But, I suggest exploring some less-crowded beaches like Koh Kood, Koh Chang, and Koh Lipe.

Here are some best things to do on Thai beaches and islands

• Join the hordes of partiers at the Full Moon Party on the shores of Koh Phangan
• Drink a shroom shake
• Become a licensed diver on Koh Tao
• Swim with the whale sharks
• Relax on Maya Beach, as featured in Dicaprio’s movie, “The Beach.” I actually had sea kayaked very unsafely from Phi Phi to Maya Beach!
• Rock climb Railay Beach’s sea stacks

Learn for yourself why Maya Beach was featured in Dicaprio’s movie, “The Beach.” for yourself. Book a trip to this insane beach cove + a few other stops along the way. (4.7/5)

7. National Parks

Thailand has more than 100 national parks! Yes, you heard that right. However, having rented a scooter in Thailand and gone to a few of them, I wouldn’t say all (or most) of them are worth going to. They are more like protected lands for wildlife, pristine jungles, and some cool waterfalls.

Here are a few of the best National Parks in Thailand:

1. Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park
2. Khao Sok National Park
3. Similan Islands National Park
4. Khao Yai National Park
5. Doi Suthep-Pui National Park

Visit Thailand’s highest point with a Doi Inthanon National Park Tour (4.7/5)

8. Diving and Snorkeling

If you’re looking for aquatic fun, Thailand offers great scuba diving and snorkeling experiences. Unbelievable for how touristy Thailand is, in many locations, you can still find yourself marveling at a spectacular array of colorful fishes and coral reefs – all to yourself!

The Koh Rok Islands, Koh Similan, and the Surin Islands are some of the best places to explore Thailand’s underwater world. 

In my opinion, popular spots like Koh Tao have become too crowded due to their popularity among divers…and I went in 2016. Don’t quote me on this, but someone once told me that 70% of divers get certified in Koh Tao. Think of all those inexperienced divers donning beginner fins destroying the coral.

Haven’t tried diving yet? You should. And there is a reason why Koh Tao is so famous for it. Try a discovery scuba session here. (4.9/5)

9. Elephant Sanctuaries

Elephants are an integral part of Thai culture, yet unfortunately, they have been exploited in the tourism industry for years. (Eek, I was probably one of them when I went to “volunteer” on my first trip to Thailand in 2013.)

Thankfully, many places now offer tourists a chance to interact with elephants without causing distress or harm to these majestic creatures.

Many sanctuaries allow visitors to feed, bathe and observe the animals in their natural environment. 

Some known ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand:

• Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai
• Friends of the Asian Elephants in Lampang
• Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary in Sukhothai

 Make sure you pick an ethical elephant sanctuary to visit. Here’s a tour for one of them! (4.9/5)

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History and Archaeology

10. Ruins of Ancient Kingdoms (Sukhothai & Ayutthaya)

Step into Thailand’s past by visiting the ruins of some of its ancient kingdoms. Sukhothai and Ayutthaya are two of the most famous historic sites in Central Thailand.

Having earned the recognition of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, both cities were once proud capitals of an era when Siam kings reigned supreme over this region of Southeast Asia.

At Sukhothai Historical Park, you can take a bike tour and get up close to the ruins in the area. The Ayutthaya Historical Park, on the other hand, is home to a row of grand Buddha statues and temples.

Love History? Book a Tour with a Knowledgeable Local Guide:
Ayutthaya Historical Park (4.8/5)
Sukhothai Historical Park & Cycling Tour (5/5)

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Shopping and Nightlife

11. Bargain Markets

Attention bargain hunters and shopaholics! Nothing compares to the exhilaration of haggling with street vendors for affordable goods in Thailand.

Bangkok has some of Thailand’s most famous markets, such as Chatuchak Weekend Market and Chang Chui Plane Night Market. And for years, all my clothes came from the wholesale markets of Ratchaprarop.

For souvenir bargain hunters, the night markets in Chiang Mai, such as the Saturday & Sunday Walking Street and Night Bazaar, are great places to get a good deal.

For a more unique experience, explore the many floating markets in southern Thailand, like Damnoen Saduak, or visit the fascinating Maeklong Railway Market where vendors swiftly pack up their goods when a train passes through daily.

 Combine a visit to the floating market and the railway market in one day! (4.6/5)

12. Huge Luxury Shopping centers

From Central World to Siam Paragon and MBK, the glossy Bangkok skyline is dominated by enormous malls featuring renowned international brands. Thailand’s metropolises are havens of luxury shopping experiences.

13. Nightlife: Bars and Clubs

No trip to Thailand would be complete without sampling some of its energizing nightlife. Bangkok is definitely the city in Thailand that offers the craziest night out with some of the best bars and clubs in Southeast Asia. Ranging from lively roof-top terraces to hip underground venues, go from partying on the infamous Khao San Road area to the chic clubs in Thong Lor, Bangkok.

The beach destinations of Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui and Pattaya also offer an array of nightlife options such as beach bars, pubs, live music venues and plenty more.

Nearly every day of the month, Koh Phangan invites tourists to its trendy parties. What started off as just one Full Moon Party per month has now been milked to the extreme, think – Half-Moon, Quarter-Moon, New/Black Moon, Waterfall, Jungle Parties, and more!

14. Sex Tourism

Sex Tourism is a major business in Thailand. It’s estimated that at least two million tourists come to the country for sex tourism alone. (There’s no better testament than the fact that all ATMs can dispense up to $800 USD at one time)

Bangkok and Pattaya are famous for their extensive red-light districts, “happy ending” massage parlors, go-go bars, and fishbowl clubs where sex workers can be found. 

If you hear the tell-tale *popping* sound that reverberates throughout Khao San, promoters are advertising ping-pong shows…if you want to take a wild guess what those are about.

15. Lady Boy Shows

Thailand is renowned for its sizeably transgender population, more affectionately known as Lady Boys. And for the most part, they are accepted and a part of normal Thai society.

But, these extraordinarily beautiful and talented entertainers can often be found performing in cabaret shows and bars around the country, and they are hilariously entertaining.

Some of the most renowned ladyboy shows:

• Calypso Cabaret in Bangkok
• Tiffany Show in Pattaya
• Chiang Mai Cabaret

16. Music & Art Festivals

Thailand is also home to some of the biggest music festivals in the region. Big names like Wonderfruit, Phuket Pride, and Waterzonic attract party-goers and big-name DJ’s from all over the world.

Thailand also has its fair share of art and culture festivals, such as Chiang Mai’s Flower Festival, which happens at the beginning of February.

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Health and Wellness

17. Traditional Thai Massage

Thailand is well known for its unique massage style, created over 2000 years ago as part of traditional Thai medicine. Nowadays, you can discover these aromatic massages centers everywhere in the country – at an unbeatable price cheaper than most other massage places around the world!

Thai massage is not only very relaxing, but it can help reduce stress levels and improve circulation, flexibility, and posture.

Apart from Thai massage, many other health and wellness treatments are available in Thailand, like traditional sauna baths and herbal therapy. There are even Thai Massage schools if you would like to try your hand at learning this ancient art.

18. Train Muay Thai

If you have ever wanted to sharpen your fighting game or just boost heart’s stamina, another great reason to visit Thailand is the accessibility and affordability of Muay Thai training.

Hailed as the ‘Sport of Kings’, Muay Thai is a traditional martial art and combat sport with roots in ancient culture – it’s also one of the most intense forms of cardio exercise around!

You can find many gyms throughout Thailand, from the more serious professional fight gyms to smaller schools that cater to tourists. Sign up for some classes, and you’ll be throwing jabs and hooks in no time!

Or you can just go see an intense match where organizers advertise KO rates as a selling point.

 Purchase a VIP tickets to the most famous Muay Thai stadium in Thailand, Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium(4.7/5)
You’re going to want to get VIP tickets to get the full experience, seats close enough to get the spray of sweat and blood, ya know. (I wish I was kidding about the second part.)

19. Yoga and Meditation Retreats

Escape from life’s daily hustle and bustle while exploring your inner self in Thailand! For experienced yogi or just starting out, there are yoga and meditation retreats to suit all needs.

I even had a friend who took the bold move of enduring a five-day Vipassana – silent retreat, engaging in full-day meditation sessions with no breaks or outside stimulation at all. Not even reading a book.

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The People

20. The Land of Smiles

Finally, Thailand harbors some of the most hospitable and welcoming people, both locals and foreigners alike. You’ll find that Thai people are incredibly friendly, helpful, and eager to share their culture with you. To top it off, you’ll find them always sporting a smile on their faces as well – it really lives up to its name, “The Land of Smiles”?

Whenever you choose a cafe spot or take a seat on the bus, you never know who will come your way and what exciting adventures it could initiate.

During my month-long hitchhiking trip throughout Thailand, I was warmly welcomed everywhere (even though a bit of waiting was involved). I attended a military base karaoke competition, visited a tranquil turtle sanctuary, and even played with a family with 10+ giant cats.

So don’t be shy! It just starts with one second of eye contact, and – you never know what kind of knowledge or friendship awaits you.

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Final Thoughts: What is Thailand Famous For?

So there you have it – that’s 20 things that Thailand is famous for and why so many tourists end up finding themselves stuck in the country, in a good way.

A journey to Thailand promises a truly unforgettable experience with its hospitable locals, delicious cuisine, epic nightlife, and breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re looking to get your adrenaline fix, explore Thai culture and history or just relax on the beach, this beautiful country has so many reasons to visit its shores, even beyond this list.

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