4 of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural treasures
From exploring fluorescent green pastures to venturing to the top of Thailand for the ultimate view, if you add any one of these destinations to your Thai itinerary, you won’t be disappointed.
1. The grass really is greener in Pai
Location: Pai, Mae Hong Soon Province, northern Thailand
Pai – a tiny town in northern Thailand – is known as an adventurer’s playground.
Tucked deep in a valley surrounded by mountains, Pai is the perfect place to explore by foot.
For a peek at just how expansive the town’s foliage is, climb more than 300 steps to the white Buddha statue. It’s worth the sore calves, especially at sunset when the valleys look their prettiest.
For travellers who prefer to stay on the ground, there’s a strip aptly named ‘the walking street’. Here, you can weave your way through markets selling fresh fruit, knick-knacks and traditional Thai food to fuel your energy.
Feet feeling the burn? Hop on a scooter. Pai is considered one of the safest places in Thailand to learn how to ride. The roads are quiet and there’s hardly any public transport.
2. The roof of Thailand
Location: Doi Inthanon National Park, Chang Mai
It’s not unusual to feel on top of the world when you’re on holiday. If you’re chasing pure elation, head straight for Doi Inthanon National Park.
Nicknamed ‘the roof of Thailand’, the national park is positioned at the country’s highest peak, rising more than 2500m above sea level.
Majestic waterfalls, remote villages, lush tropical forests and mountainous terrain engulf travellers who venture through Doi Inthanon.
Don’t forget to bring your binoculars. Known as the best place in Thailand for birdwatching, it’s likely you’ll spot birds perching high in the towering tropical trees. The national park’s protected status makes it a sanctuary for a range of other animals too.
Named after a king who was concerned about the state of forests in north Thailand, Doi Inthanon National Park remains just as much a treasure today as it was then.
3. The underrated beach
Location: Yanui Beach, Phuket
As one of the more secluded beaches in Thailand, Yanui Beach may be small but delivers big when it comes to stunning scenery and relaxed vibes.
Split in 2 by a large rock formation that extends out into the water, Yanui Beach doesn’t have big hotels or shops. In fact, there’s only one small restaurant and a few shacks which turn into cosy beach bars at night.
It’s an ideal spot for travelling families, especially with small children. The clear shallow water close to shore is the ideal playground for the little ones.
Big kids seeking a thrill can paddle out past the large rock to explore life beneath the water on day-long scuba diving expeditions.
4. Don’t go chasing waterfalls – unless it’s Thi Lor Su
Location: Thi Lor Su waterfall, Tak Province
At about 250m high and nearly 450m wide, Thi Lor Su waterfall is considered the highest and largest in Thailand.
Meaning ‘black waterfall’, Thi Lor Su is located deep in Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary – a UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Thailand.
Despite its name, Thi Lor Su is anything but dark. White water – almost crystal clear – tumbles down throughout the year, and it’s not unusual for bare-foot travellers to feel the rumble of gushing water beneath them.
The safest time to get a closer glimpse is between July and November. Soak in the beautiful surrounds by hopping in one of the waterfall’s many rock pools.
Extend your stay by retreating to the sanctuary’s nearby camping site for a shower and a feed.
Keep in mind that in the wet season, travellers are faced with a mighty trek to get to Thi Lor Su. The journey includes rafting along the Mae Klong River, followed by a 3–4 hour trek once on dry land.
It might sound like an arduous adventure, but trust us – it’s worth it.