Thailand off the beaten track

Looking to see a different side of Thailand beyond the buzzing cities and lively beach resorts? Exploring Thailand off the beaten track gives you the chance to uncover its quieter, more authentic charm. In remote villages and lesser-known regions, you’ll find rich traditions, untouched landscapes, and a deeper connection to the country’s diverse culture, far from the typical tourist path.

1. Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai offers a quieter, more laid-back alternative to the popular Chiang Mai, making it a perfect destination for those looking to explore Thailand off the beaten track. Tucked away in the far north of the country, its remote location means far fewer tourists venture here, giving it a peaceful, unhurried vibe despite being home to around 200,000 people.

There’s no shortage of things to see and do. Known for its strong ties to Lanna culture, the city invites visitors to explore its heritage at the Oub Kham Museum, which houses a beautifully curated collection of traditional artifacts. Chiang Rai is also famous for its spectacular temples, from the historic and intricate Wat Klang Wieng to the dazzling, contemporary White Temple. Just outside the city, you’ll find hill tribe villages where life has changed little over the decades. Visiting these communities, situated near the border with Myanmar, offers an authentic, eye-opening experience. Our local experts can arrange enriching day trips to meet the Lahu people, complete with a scenic drive and traditional lunch.

Read more: The best places to enjoy peace and quiet in Thailand

2. The Trang region

Often described by our trusted local experts as “unseen Thailand,” Trang is a coastal province that truly embodies the essence of Thailand off the beaten track. With far fewer visitors than other parts of the country, Trang offers a refreshing escape filled with natural beauty and unique experiences. From quiet, unspoiled beaches and jungle-covered landscapes to hidden caves and cascading waterfalls, it’s a dream for travelers seeking tranquility and authenticity. One of Trang’s biggest claims to fame is the endangered dugong, a gentle sea mammal rarely spotted elsewhere. Koh Libong, just off the coast, is home to about 70% of Thailand’s dugong population thanks to its thriving seagrass beds, the dugong’s primary food source. The islanders have a deep respect for these unusual creatures and are active in protecting their habitat.

For a truly immersive experience, you can add a dugong tracking adventure to your Thailand itinerary. This eco-focused excursion includes a guided exploration of the lunar-like tunnels of Khao Kop Cave, an introduction to local forest preservation efforts, and a boat trip with a conservation expert to spot dugongs in their natural environment. It’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with the unique marine life and conservation culture of this bio-diverse region.

3. Koh Phra Thong

Tucked along Thailand’s southwestern coast between Phuket and Ranong, Koh Phra Thong is a hidden gem in Thailand off the beaten track. Although it’s the fifth-largest island in the country, it remains refreshingly untouched by mass tourism. With wide golden-sand beaches often completely empty, and a wild, green interior, this serene island is ideal for adventurous travelers and those seeking true peace and quiet. Choose from a handful of relaxed resorts and spend your days beachcombing, venturing inland, or snorkeling some of Thailand’s most pristine reefs.

Koh Phra Thong and its neighboring islands are also among the most important sea turtle nesting sites on the Andaman coast. Sadly, nesting activity has dropped by more than 90% over the past five decades, but local conservationists are working tirelessly to reverse that trend. They monitor the beaches closely, protecting nests and hatchlings to ensure these ancient creatures have a fighting chance. With four distinct ecosystems, including beach, savanna, mangrove, and rainforest, Koh Phra Thong is also a haven for nature lovers. The island supports a remarkable variety of birds and plant life, making it a dream destination for eco-minded explorers looking to experience a truly wild side of Thailand.

Read more: Discover Thailand’s best viewpoints from mountains to coast

4. The Mae Hong Son Province

Tucked away in the far northwest corner of Thailand, Mae Hong Son Province is a land of misty mountains and untamed valleys along the border with Myanmar. It’s a peaceful, rural region with a relaxed pace of life, where the forested hills feel as mysterious as they are breathtaking. Aside from Pai, a laid-back town with a charming riverside setting, you won’t find many well-known tourist spots here. Instead, it’s all about simple pleasures like hiking through spectacular landscapes in search of waterfalls, hot springs, and traditional hill tribe villages.

The Salween River and its surrounding area are protected as a national park and recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, making it a great choice for travelers seeking off-the-grid rafting adventures. The river in Pai also offers plenty of fun water-based activities, and you can relive the day’s excitement over drinks at one of the town’s cozy bars or cafés. Pai is an ideal base for exploring the countryside, especially for cyclists, the scenic roads and lookout points are perfect for seasoned riders looking for a challenge.

Make it happen

Venture into Thailand’s lesser-known corners to experience a different side of this warm and welcoming country. From breathtaking mountain regions and tranquil, under-the-radar islands to hidden national parks waiting to be explored, there’s so much more beyond the typical tourist trail. Whether you’re planning for your entire trip to focus on Thailand off the beaten track, or you’re looking to add a touch of adventure to a classic sightseeing itinerary, our carefully selected local experts are here to help. Just share a few details, and they’ll handle the planning, making your trip effortless and unforgettable.