Best things to do near Bangkok
So you’ve spent a few days eating, shopping, and vibing your way through the many things to do in Bangkok. But what’s a holiday without some R&R and adventure? If that’s calling out to you, perhaps it’s time to schedule a day trip outside of the city.
Not a difficult decision to make, seeing that there are tonnes of gorgeous sights and adventurous activities within a 3.5-hour drive from the bustling metropolis. Book a day tour to the coastal town of Pattaya or take a road trip to the serene districts surrounding Bangkok.
Regardless of what you choose, these 30 best things to do near Bangkok will be worth the journey.
– Pattaya –
Think of nightlife in Thailand and Pattaya would likely spring to mind for its 24/7 clubs. More recently, the coastal city has also made waves for its water activities, including island-hopping and beach bummin’. Adding to this glo-up are cultural sites and family-friendly activities. Here’s what’s awaiting you just a 2-hour drive from Bangkok:
1. Sanctuary Of Truth – All-wood, hand-carved religious site
There is no lack of creativity in what the human mind and hands can do. Case in point: the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya. It’s a 100m-tall, all-wood religious site that was painstakingly hand-carved with intricate designs all over.
Such details warrant a closer look, and you can do so by entering the sanctuary to visit its 5 halls. Each hall represents teachings from Asian religions and values like Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, and Confucianism.
You’ll see motifs representing these religions carefully carved into the pillars and structures that hold up the building.
Book admission tickets to Sanctuary of Truth.
Admission: S$15.25/pax (U.P. ฿500/adult, ~S$19.08)
Address: 206/2 Moo 5, Pattaya-Naklua Road, Banglamung, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm | Sun 10am-8pm
Contact: +66 3811 0653 | Sanctuary of Truth website
2. Castello Di Bellagio – Fine dining restaurant in an Italian-style castle
Truth be told, when we first saw Castello Di Bellagio, we had to do a double take and check where we were on Google Maps. With its Romanesque architecture complete with a sprawling, manicured lawn, we thought we’d been transported to Tuscany in Italy.
But nope, the GPS showed that we were at a restaurant in Pattaya. And it wasn’t just the exteriors that had us fooled; the interior is also filled with Italian-inspired ornaments and statues, and even a grand cellar that holds 200 bottles of wine for diners.
Image credit: Castello Di Bellagio Pattaya via Facebook
Food-wise, expect nothing less than fine Italian dining. There’s an extensive list of steaks from ฿1,980 (~S$75.55) for a 200g tenderloin. These go best with their sides such as fries and grilled vegetables from ฿180 (~S$6.87).
Address: 9 Na Chom Thian, Sattahip District, Chon Buri 20250, Thailand
Opening hours: 11am-10pm, Daily
Contact: +66 6 4694 6699 | Castello Di Bellagio Facebook
3. Great&Grand Sweet Destination – IG-worthy candyland
Image credit: @fanscape_photography via Instagram
Great&Grand Sweet Destination wasn’t lying when it said it’s great and grand. This cafe looks straight out of Candy Crush with its gingerbread houses, gumball trees, and cupcake-covered hills.
Image credit: Great&Grand Sweet Destination via Facebook
Partners, you’ll want to bring your photography A game here, because we expect your gf or bf to want hundreds of #OOTD snaps at this candy dreamland.
Image credit: Great&Grand Sweet Destination via Facebook
We’re not surprised if you’re tempted to lick the giant candy canes and ice cream cones, but save the slurping for actual desserts at the cafe. The ice cream bar serves up 36 flavours on sprinkle-dipped cones. There are also other cakes and beverages available at this ’50s style diner.
Adult admission: ฿120/pax (~S$4.58)
Child (above 100cm tall) admission: ฿66/pax (~S$2.52)
Address: 73/12 Moo.3 Nongplalai, Banglamung, Pattaya, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Opening hours: 8.30am-6pm, Daily
Contact: +66 97 469 9919 | Great&Grand Sweet Destination Facebook
4. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden – SE Asia’s largest garden & dino park
We’ve got our fair share of flora on our Little Red Dot, like the Singapore Botanic Gardens and Gardens by the Bay. But these can’t compare in size to Nong Nooch Tropical Garden in Pattaya. Measuring 500 acres in area, this is the largest garden in Southeast Asia.
The massive grounds are split into a number of areas that cultivate specific plant species, like orchids, bonsai, and cacti.
French Garden.
There are also themed gardens like the French Garden, where red telephone booths line an avenue, and even a Stone Forest that contains hundreds of stone pillars.
Looking at plants might be more fun for the adults if you’ve got kids in tow. But you can easily turn this into a family trip by visiting the neighbouring Nong Nooch Dinosaur Valley. Life-size dino figures are on display all over for you to take pics with. Fair warning, these roar when you’re near, but life-like as they may be, they thankfully can’t bite.
Book admission tickets to Nong Nooch Tropical Garden.
Admission: From S$15.15 (U.P. ฿500/pax,~S$19.08)
Address: 34/1 Moo 7, Na-Jomtien, Satahip, Chonburi 20250, Thailand
Opening hours: 8am-6pm, Daily
Contact: +66 81 919 2153 | Nong Nooch Tropical Garden website
5. Pattaya Sheep Farm – Petting zoo with animal shows
Here’s another one for the kiddos who want something more than just trailing mum and dad from mall to mall. Pattaya Sheep Farm is part petting zoo, part amusement park, but 100% fun for the whole family.
The main draw is its fluffy sheep and other furry farm animals like alpacas and Sika deer. These you can pet all you want, but you can also catch them in a talent show doing tricks.
Critters aside, there are also carnival games to play and larger-than-life fairy tale sculptures to take wefies at. In between all that fun, stop by the Barn Steak House for a quick bite.
Book admission tickets to Pattaya Sheep Farm.
Admission: ฿100/adult (~S$3.81), ฿50/child (~S$1.91)
Address: 73 Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi 20150, Thailand
Opening hours: 9am-7pm, Daily
Contact: +66 97 459 9919 | Pattaya Sheep Farm website
6. ATV Adventure Park – 17km-long route on a dirt track
If you’re itching for some adrenaline after countless temple visits and cafe-hopping, look no further than ATV Adventure Park. Just strap on a helmet and put pedal to the metal to start zipping around.
It’s a 17km-long route on a dirt track through wild grasslands which include lots of bumps and humps. But this is no biggie for the 4-wheel drive you’ll be riding – it is called an all-terrain vehicle after all.
Newbies needn’t worry about handling such a powerful machine. Each session includes a crash course on driving and safety before you zoom off.
Book a session at ATV Adventure Park.
Rates: From S$57.15/pax (U.P. ฿2,200, ~S$83.87)
Address: 204/14 Moo 8, Soi17, Toongklom-Talman Road, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Opening hours: 9am-5pm, Daily
Contact: +66 94 465 2952
– Hua Hin –
Coming in under the radar is Hua Hin, a coastal city that’s a ~3-hour drive from Bangkok. White sand beaches aside, the city has plenty to keep you and the fam occupied for a couple of days. We’re talking outdoor activities with dramatic mountain views, local markets, and even a waterpark that’s home to the most impressive waterslides in Thailand.
7. Vana Nava Water Jungle – Largest & longest waterslides in Thailand
Check out the man-made mountain and waterfall that’s 31m tall.
Image credit: Vana Nava Water Jungle via Facebook
A must-visit in Hua Hin would be the Vana Nava Water Jungle, where thrilling slides and high-speed rides are aplenty. Daredevils can pay the Boomerango a visit to whizz down the longest slide in the park. Then, hop on the water park’s iconic megaphone-shaped ride – the Abyss – or give the anti-gravity tube slide a go.
Image credit: Komon sermboonkrong via Google Maps
Catch some waves at the Surf Zone, where your balance and core strength will be put to the test. For the kiddos, there are rope obstacle courses and a waterpark playground. And if you need to catch a breath from all that splashing around, head to the chill pool where you can float away under the sun.
Book tickets to the Vana Nava Jungle Park.
Admission: From ฿1,090/adult (~S$41.54), from ฿850/child (~S$32.39)
Address: 129/99 Soi Moo Baan Nong Kae, Tambon Nong Kae, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Prachuap Khiri
Opening hours: 11am-5pm, Daily
Contact: +66 32 909 606 | Vana Nava Water Jungle website
8. Cicada Night Market – Affordable local food & shopping
Hua Hin’s version of the famous Chatuchak market is the Cicada Night Market. Open every Friday to Sunday, this night market is home to affordable grub, trendy clothing, and all things artsy.
Image credit: Noteman Vorapote via Google Maps
Walk along the rows of tents with fairy lights strung atop and you’ll be greeted by gourmand fragrances that are sure to pique your hunger. You can find various finger foods here, including barbeque skewers, grilled seafood, and soft drinks to quench your thirst. The market also boasts paintings for sale and performances by local artists for those who fancy the arts.
Browse the clothing stalls (left) for vacation OOTDs or try out the local street food (right).
Image adapted from: 古懷文, Aum GuRuManz via Google Maps
Admission: Free
Address: 83 159 Soi Hua Thanon 21, Nong Kae, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand
Opening hours: Fri-Sun 4pm-11pm (Closed from Mondays to Thursdays)
Contact: +66 9 966 97161 | Cicada Market website
9. Petchaburi Salt Farm – Sprawling salt fields with serene vibes
With Thailand’s robust agricultural scene, there’s no doubt that there are numerous types of farms for us to visit. Add the Phetchaburi Salt Farm to your list – it’s one of the largest salt producers in Hua Hin. While there aren’t any official tours or activities here, the sprawling salt fields prove to be an Instagram-worthy spot.
The place also serves as a unique educational trip for families travelling with young ones, where they can observe the process taken to harvest salt – starting with the farmers manually ploughing the salt into pyramid stacks.
Admission: Free
Address: 4028, Tambon Laem Phak Bia, Amphoe Ban Laem, Chang Wat Phetchaburi 76110, Thailand
10. Bueng Bua Wood Boardwalk – Dramatic cliffs in the backdrop
Image credit: @cindy_yutingshen via Instagram
Located within the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is the Bueng Bua Wood Boardwalk that’s set amidst a sea of water lilies and long reeds. Stroll along the wooden planks and snap K-drama inspired pictures, or simply admire the unblocked scenery of the nearby mountains. There are also boat rides you can take, but these are subjected to the staff’s availability.
Image credit: Emma B via Google Maps
Quaint gazebos are peppered around the area too, where you can take shelter from the sun. We’d recommend visiting between December and February as that’s when the lotus flowers typically bloom.
Admission to Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park: ฿200/pax (~S$7.62)
Address: Sam Roi Yot, Sam Roi Yot District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77120, Thailand
Opening hours: 8am-4.30pm, Daily
Contact: +66 9 4526 9594 | Bueng Bua Wood Boardwalk Facebook
11. Tree Top Adventure Park – Zipline through a forest
Image credit: Tree Top Adventurepark Hua Hin via Google Maps
PSA to all adventure seekers: the Zipline Experience at the Tree Top Adventure Park is not to be missed. Strap on your harness and be free as you soar across the lake with the surrounding greenery as your “flight” companion.
Image credit: Tree Top Adventurepark Hua Hin via Google Maps
There are also high-element courses that will involve you treading through shaky bridges, climbing rope nets, and even riding an aerial skateboard. These activities are suitable for kids aged 6 and above, so there’s no excuse for you to skip out on this.
Book the Zipline Experience.
Admission: ฿750/pax (~S$28.55)
Address: Vana Varin Resort Hua Hin Tubtai, Hua Hin, Prachuabkirikhan 77110, Thailand
Opening hours: 9am-3pm, Daily
Contact: +66 98 278 8725 | Tree Top Adventure Park website
12. Pa-La-U Waterfall – Waterfall with 16 cascades
Image credit: @peaks_andbeaches via Instagram
Take a break from the city bustle and let your inner Tarzan out at the Krachan National Park. There are tours available that will have you exploring a rainforest that’s been around for a millennium, and then to the 16-tiered Pa-La-U Waterfall. Shutterbugs can snap a ton of pictures here, with the cascading torrent in the background.
Do remember to bring a change of clothes and wear proper hiking footwear as the walkways can get pretty wet and slippery.
Book a tour to Pa-La-U Waterfall Tour.
Tour rates: From ฿1,600 (~S$60.95)
Address: Huai Sat Yai, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand
Contact: +66 32 646 294
– Kanchanaburi –
If a detox from city life is what you’re looking for, then it’s time to plan a few days’ stay at Kanchanaburi. The definition of “tranquil” materialises here with a landscape that includes nature spots, calm rivers, and even a dreamy flower field. Travelling here is pretty convenient too as it’s just a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok.
13. Death Railway & River Kwai Bridge – Historical train rides
Image credit: Klook
While a Death Railway might sound morbid, it’s actually a compelling piece of history that’s now a beautiful Thai landmark. In case you’re wondering, it got its name from the 100,000 slave labourers who died during its construction during WW2.
To honour their travails, a free memorial walk and museum have been set up at Hellfire Pass, which you can find at the end of the railway.
Image credit: Klook
The train will take you across the River Kwai Bridge for some pristine views of the countryside and riverbank. If the bridge sounds familiar, it’s because it was once the focal point and namesake of an Oscar-winning film from 1957.
Book a tour for the Death Railway and River Kwai Bridge.
Tour rates: From S$72.75
Address: 73 Chao Khun Nen Road, Ban Nuea, Mueang Kanchanaburi District, Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand
Opening hours: 9am-4pm, Daily
Contact: +66 3451 2721 | Railway Museum website
14. Baan Rai Nai Rung – Seasonal flower fields
Image credit: @baanrainairung via Instagram
With throngs of flowers and a bunch of dreamy photo-ops, Baan Rai Nai Rung looks like a scene from a fairy tale. This 2-acre-wide field of flowers is famed for being an #OOTD hotspot for aspiring IG princes and princesses.
Image credit: Baan Rai Nai Rung via Facebook
The flowers planted change annually; in recent years, the field has had magenta cosmos and bright yellow sunflowers. You’ll also find a series of props for you to pose with. No, not the kinds that come on sticks you’ll find at photobooths. Rather, these include benches, pianos, and even a “stairway to nowhere” that’ll give your IG photos an out-of-this-world vibe.
Image credit: Thawitphat Viriyaparpcharoen via Google Maps
Note that Baan Rai Nai Rung is temporarily closed for the season, but they’ll be back in December 2023 with a new concept and photo corners. Keep yourself updated on an opening date by following the Baan Rai Nai Rung Instagram page.
Admission: ฿40/adult (~S$1.53), ฿10/child (~S$0.38)
Address: Klon Do, Dan Makham Tia District, Kanchanaburi 71260, Thailand
Opening hours: 7.30am-6.30pm, Daily
Contact: +66 89 051 9242 | Baan Rai Nai Rung Facebook
15. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – Affordable boat market
We’ve got pasar malams, and Thailand has floating markets – and Damnoen Saduak is one of the best ones in the country. Picture narrow canals filled with colourful longtail boats, peddling various fruits, accessories, and knick-knacks.
To make the most of of your trip, rent your own rowboat (from ฿500, ~S$19.07) or join a tour of the market and nearby villages. Otherwise, exploring the market on foot is free and will give you more time to savour the authentic Thai street food.
Book a tour to visit Kachanaburi’s floating markets.
Tour rates: From S$51.65
Address: 51 Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand
Opening hours: 8am-4pm, Daily
Contact: +66 85 222 7470
16. Mallika R.E.124 Village – Siam in the 1930s
For a taste of some immersive Thai heritage and culture, head up to Mallika R.E.124 Village, a small town lost in a bygone era of shop houses and “ancient” markets. Take this opportunity to dress up in traditional Thai costumes as you wander about the streets and homes of people from the 1900s.
Make sure to convert – or rather, revert – your Baht currency back to the ancient Satang currency, before you purchase any souvenirs or food over here. Also, look out for Ruean Phae, a floating house towards the end of the village which sells an array of traditional desserts that are prepped right in front of you.
Get tickets for Kanchanaburi Mallika City.
Admission: From ฿250/pax (S$9.56)
Address: 168, Sing, Sai Yok District, Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand
Opening hours: 9am-5.30pm, Daily
Contact: +66 34 540 884 | Mallika R.E.124 Village website
17. Sai Yok Noi Waterfall – Swim in mineral water pools
Also known as the “wrecked” waterfall, the Sai Yok Noi Waterfall was once broken down from a cliff into a limestone slide, allowing mountain water to cascade from 15m above. Compared to the other waterfalls in the vicinity, Sai Yok Noi is the closest to the city centre – just an hour’s drive away via main road number 323.
Entry into this natural sanctuary is free, but you may choose to rent some floats for ฿20 (~S$0.76), or grab a post-swim bite from the nearby food kiosks. Many locals also prefer to just wade in their clothes, so that’s good news if you forgot to pack a swimming costume.
Admission: Free
Address: 63Q5+F8M, Tha Sao, Sai Yok District, Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand
Opening hours: 8am-5pm, Daily
18. Wat Saam Prasob – Sunken temple in a remote village
A little off the beaten path, the town of Sangkhlaburi encompasses one of the most enigmatic and hidden finds in Kanchanaburi. We’re talking about Wat Saam Prasob, a sunken temple that outlived its village when a massive flood hit the Mon and Karen tribes in 1968.
Getting to the temple requires you to cross the Mon Bridge, an impressive 850m stretch of wooden beams, and hop on a 20-minute boat tour (฿300, ~S$11.47). However, you could also wait for the surrounding waters to dry up when April rolls around, and extol the temple in its dry state.
Getting there: Take Bus No.8203 from Kanchanaburi Bus Station
Opening hours: 9am-5.30pm, Daily
– Khao Yai –
In case you don’t already know, Khao Yai is a national park that’s about a 3.5-hour drive from Bangkok. You know what that means – a gold mine of outdoor and nature activities for those who need a literal breath of fresh air. And if that’s not convincing enough, all you might need to know is that there are alpacas to cuddle here.
P.S. To visit all the highlights of Khao Yai, book a 1-3 day private car charter that’ll take you to Baan Suan Noi Khao Yai, Primo Piazza, the national park, and Farm Chokchai.
19. Baan Suan Noi Khao Yai – Hobbit House-inspired resort
Image credit: @somchai_jannuan via Instagram
Thailand is rife with 5-star resorts. But those who want to bring their Lord of the Rings fantasies to life can head straight to Baan Suan Noi resort and check themselves into one of its Hobbit Houses.
The interior of the White Cave Hobbit House.
Image credit: @nui.piyanuch via Instagram
These quirky cottages have all the aesthetics of a mystical earth home but with the advanced tech of the modern world. We’re talking ACs, TVs, mini fridges, and high-speed Internet. That means you can feel transformed into a Tolkien character while having all the amenities needed for a relaxing getaway.
Room rates: From ฿1,500/night (~S$57.34)
Address: 292, Lat Bua Khao, Sikhio District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30340, Thailand
Opening hours: 8am-11pm, Daily
Contact: +66 8 1291 5160 | Baan Suan Noi Resort website
20. Primo Piazza – Thailand’s Little Italy with alpaca barn
Okay, we might’ve assumed that Thailand was made up of mainly temples, beach parties, and floating markets. But that was before we stumbled upon Primo Piazza – Khao Yai’s Little Italy.
Image credit: @miniminnienei via Instagram
The cobbled streets, vibrant flower fields, and old school architecture give us major Tuscany vibes. However, stunning views are not the only thing this quaint town is known for. There’s also the alpaca barn and the sheep farm where you can feed, pet, and pose with the animals.
Image credit: @irislin93 via Instagram
Of course, the restaurant and gelato stand here also follow the Italian theme to the T, with the ice cream made entirely from local dairy farm milk.
Admission: ฿200/adult (~S$7.65), ฿100/child (~S$3.82)
Address: Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand
Opening hours: 9am-6pm, Daily
Contact: +66 81 922 9000 | Primo Piazza Instagram
21. Khao Yai National Park – Overnight camping & forest trekking
Khao Yai National Park is a 3.5-hour drive from Bangkok which makes it day trip material.
With various waterfalls, jungle-topped cliffs, and an abundance of wildlife, this enormous park is exactly what your worn-out soul needs. Camping under the stars at the Lam Ta Khong campsite is a popular activity. But if you’re up for some exercises, feel free to trek up the many hiking routes available.
Out of the 7 paths, the advanced Haew Suwat Waterfall trail takes around 6 hours and a lot of sweat to complete, but is worth the incredible views. Just note this particular trail is closed from 1st July to 31st August yearly for maintenance.
Admission: ฿200/adult (~S$7.64), ฿100/child (~S$3.82)
Address: Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand
Opening hours: 6am-6pm, Daily
Contact: +66 86 092 6529 | Khao Yai National Park website
22. Farm Chokchai – With ATV tours & live shows
If watching cowboy shows and swerving on an ATV across a farm sound appealing to you, do not miss Farm Chokchai.
With lush farmland and flower fields as far as the eye can see, this peaceful farm makes it easy to forget the hustling and bustling side of Thailand.
There’s a lot going on at Farm Chokchai and it’s best that you book a tour. It’ll take you through everything from the farm factory to the cow milking session and even an ice cream tasting.
Admission: ฿300/adult (~S$11.46), ฿150/child (~S$5.73)
Address: 159 Mittraphap Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am-4pm | Sat-Sun 9am-4.30pm
Contact: +66 98 719 4464 | Farm Chokchai website
23. PB Valley Winery – Wine tasting & fruit picking in the valley
If you need stunning vistas and a valid reason to start drinking before noon, right this way to PB Valley Winery.
Image credit: @wong.leanne via Instagram
For lovers of nature, food, and wine, this flourishing vineyard offers the best of all 3 worlds. Head over here and climb into one of the guided tour buses. From there, you’ll zip around endless fruit orchards and take in the scenery, all while sipping on a sheer amount of red and white vino before having a feast at the restaurant.
Image credit: @kamwaimei via Instagram
The vineyard is just a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok, which means you’ll have a drink in hand in no time.
Book a wine-tasting tour at PB Valley Winery.
Admission: From S$14.50
Address: 102/2 Moo 5, Mitraparp Road, Payayen Pakchong Nakhon, Ratchasima 30320, Thailand
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 9am-8pm | Fri-Sat 9am-10pm
Contact: +66 81 733 8783 | PB Valley Winery website
24. Lala Mukha Resort – Safari-styled tents near the mountains
We heard you’ve had enough of beachfront hotels in Thailand. That’s why we’re here to suggest you these boujee tents at Lala Mukha Resort as the next best alternative.
Image credit: @p.partyy_ via Instagram
Honestly, these African safari tents are quite hard to beat. The resort is located right next to Khao Yai National Park, so you’ll have views for days of the lush forest, rolling hills, and majestic limestone mountains.
The resort comes with an infinity pool that overlooks the mountains and forests.
Image credit: @maysrpnn via Instagram
The luxe tents here are pretty spacious, with the loft-styled ones easily fitting a family of 4. Tree houses are also available if you’re pulling up with a bigger group.
Check out more unique Khao Yai hotels.
Rates: From ฿3,705/night (~S$141.54)
Address: 515 Moo 5 Musi Pakchong Nakhonratchasima Thailand
Contact: +66 44 300 691 | Lala Mukha Tented Resort website
– Others –
If the previous cities in this article aren’t enough for your Thailand escapade, we’re not done yet! Here are more things to do near Bangkok – with more alpacas involved – that’ll satiate any hunger for adventure for a day trip.
25. Wat Samphran – 17-storey pink tower with a giant dragon
Image credit: @will_pnd via Instagram
Only an hour away from Bangkok, Wat Samphran is a Buddhist temple that is truly one of a kind. Enter through the tail of the dragon and climb upwards till you reach the head at the top of the tower from where you can soak in 360-degree views of the surrounding rice paddies and villages.
Wander the temple grounds to spot a large golden Buddha statue.
Image credit: @stephfs via Instagram
While you’re free to go ham on the many photo spots in the area, visitors are advised to dress appropriately and remove their footwear before entering the tower.
Admission: Free
Address: 92 Sam Phran, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom 73110, Thailand
Opening hours: 9am-5pm, Daily
Contact: Wat Samphran Facebook
26. Alpaca Hill – Hobbiton lookalike with free-roaming alpacas
Image credit: @AlpacaHillThailand via Facebook
Take a 3-hour drive from Bangkok towards the Ratchaburi region and you’ll feel like you’re suddenly in New Zealand. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city lies Alpaca Hill – a farm with over 20 types of animals including sheep, geese, and alpacas, of course.
Get up close and personal with the gentle farm animals.
Image credit: @chom.pinkk via Instagram
The farm only allows 200 visitors a day so if you don’t want to be disappointed, reservations online are highly recommended.
Admission: ฿290 (~S$11.08)
Address: 357 Moo 8, Phapok-Tako Land Road, Suanphung Ratchaburi 70180, Thailand
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm | Sat 9am-6pm | Sun 9.30am-6pm
Contact: Alpaca Hill website
27. Historic City of Ayutthaya – Ancient archeological site
Travel back in time to a place known to have almost 700 years of history.
Image credit: @deeexplores_ via Instagram
Those up for their own Indiana Jones adventure can make their way to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site that lies about 1.5 hours from Bangkok by car. Today, you’ll see the ruins of the palace and monasteries that were part of what was once a flourishing kingdom.
One of the most photographed Buddha heads in Thailand.
Image credit: @adventure_moments_ via Instagram
To experience all that this serene place has to offer, hop on a day tour from Bangkok where you get to explore the historical city as well as the surrounding markets and Bang Pa-In Summer Palace.
Book an Ayutthaya day tour from Bangkok.
Tour rates: From S$61.49
Address: 196, 4 Khlong Tho Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
Opening hours: 8.30am-6.30pm, Daily
Contact: Tourism Thailand website
28. Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market – Thai street food & snacks
Image credit: Tourism Thailand
Lying on the outskirts of Bangkok, Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market is the place to go for your fix of Thai street food and snacks. Despite its name, you can make your way through this market on foot, trying dishes such as boat noodles, grilled pork sausages, and homegrown fruits.
Dim sum and miang kham (wild betel leaves) are some of the street foods to try at the market.
Image adapted from: @rattana_nitha, @janjansyt via Instagram
To get the quintessential Thai experience, take a boat ride along the canal as you capture the scenes of locals going about their marketing. There’s also an option of renting a canoe or paddle boat to explore the wider parts of the canal.
Address: 5, 38 S. Petchahueng 28 Bang Kobua, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan 10130, Thailand
Opening hours: Sat-Sun 8am-4pm (Closed on Mon-Fri)
Contact: Tourism Thailand website
29. Celestial Dragon Village – Chinese vintage architecture
Image credit: @jacksofftoadventures via Instagram
Inspired by Lijiang city in China, Celestial Dragon Village in the Suphanburi district is about a 1.5-hour drive from Bangkok. One of the highlights is the Dragon Descendants Museum on top of which lies the iconic Chinese dragon statue. There’s an English audio tour available that brings you through the history of China and Thailand diplomatic relations.
Plenty of restaurants and retail stores in the village to dine and shop at.
Image credit: @jacksofftoadventures via Instagram
Another landmark not to be missed is the observation tower from which you get a bird’s eye view of the entire village.
Admission: ฿499/adult (~S$19.19) | ฿299/child (~S$11.50)
Address: F4H6+75P, Tambon Rua Yai, Amphoe Mueang Suphanburi, Suphanburi 72000, Thailand
Opening hours: Wed-Fri 10am-4pm | Sat-Sun 9am-5pm (Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)
30. Khao Ngu National Park – A range of limestone mountains
Image credit: @ohorworld via Instagram
Nature lovers will not want to miss the unparalleled views and serenity of Khao Ngu National Park. Grab a ride 2 hours out of Bangkok to reach this scenic park in Ratchaburi district, then take a leisurely stroll along paved pathways or hike the rocky trails if you’re feeling more adventurous.
Image credit: @artist.aungthura via Instagram
Other activities to be enjoyed in the area include paddle boating for ฿20 (~S$0.76) and exploring the bat caves. And if you stay till sundown, witness a spectacular sunset from between the mountain valleys.
Admission: Free
Address: Ko Phlappla, Amphur Mueng Ratchaburi, Ratchaburi 70000, Thailand
Opening hours: 8am-6pm, Daily
Contact: Tourism Thailand website
Day trips & things to do near Bangkok
Whether you’re the adventurous type, or someone who just needs to detox from busy city life, these things to do near Bangkok will satiate your cravings. They’re all pretty accessible too; just take up to a 3.5-hour drive from the city to see these unique gems for yourself.
Planning doesn’t have to be a setback either – not with platforms like Klook making bookings pretty darn convenient. For one, you could easily rent a car and take a road trip to these gorgeous cities. Those who prefer to be hands-off the wheel aren’t left out – private car charters can be booked for day trips to explore sights and attractions outside of Bangkok.
Else, booking a myriad of day tours from Bangkok is at the tip of your fingers. You can even shave up to 45% off attractions when with the nifty Bangkok and Pattaya Klook Pass. Other useful services include private airport transfers that’ll bring you straight to your hotel.
Extra props at the fact that you’ll be able to find everything from family-friendly activities to outdoor adventures with your adrenaline junkie buddies.
Find things to do in & near Bangkok on Klook
This post was brought to you by Klook.
Photography by Alastair Pang, Brad Harrison Lee & Chan Huiwen.
Cover image adapted from: @i_gufgif via Instagram, Lala Mukha Tented Resort
Originally published on 11th October 2022. Last updated by Raewyn Koh on 10th November 2023.
Drop us your email so you won't miss the latest news.
