5 lesser-known cities to explore in Thailand off the beaten track

Phayao-Kwan-Phayao-Lake-amazing-thailand

Far from the crowded beaches and urban hustle and bustle, Thailand hides some worthwhile destinations. From ancestral Sukhothai to frontier Betong, not forgetting the cultural melting pot of Chanthaburi, these stopovers reveal another side of the Thai soul, away from the crowds.

Thailand attracts millions of visitors every year, but some of its most beautiful places remain in the shadows. These cities and regions, more discreet than the flashy Bangkok and Chiang Mai, reveal a different face of the country, combining history, nature and traditions.

Want to explore Thailand? Read more on the topic and get ready for your trip:

• Thailand: The most beautiful islands for a picture-perfect holiday
• This idyllic coastal town is the perfect place to stay in southern Thailand
• 30 essential Thai phrases you need to know for a successful trip

Sukhothai, birthplace of the Kingdom of Siam

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient capital of the kingdom of Sukhothai is filled with the wonder of its historic remains. In total, 193 temples and palaces in ruins bear witness to the past glory of this city founded in the 13th century.

Among those ruins, the impressive temple of Wat Mahathat is home to a fascinating element: a stone Buddha head encased in the roots of a banyan tree, a symbol of how nature has reclaimed these ruins. Dotted with ponds and frangipani trees, this historic park is ideal for exploring by bike. At dusk, the monument light up, creating a magical atmosphere.

Amphawa, an authentic floating market

Just 90 kilometres away from Bangkok, Amphawa is a place full of charm. Its floating market, lesser known than Damnoen Saduak, has retained all its authenticity. On weekends, the canals come alive with boats loaded with fresh fruits, colourful vegetables and traditional dishes prepared with care and tradition, such as "pla pao," a grilled fish served with a spicy sauce.

When night falls, you can take a boat trip to watch the ballet of fireflies that lights up the riverbanks. This natural spectacle adds a magical dimension to Amphawa's captivating atmosphere.

Chanthaburi, a cultural crossroads

Also known as the City of the Moon, Chanthaburi is a cultural crossroads of Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese influences. The old town invites its visitors to stroll around, with its 19th-century buildings lining the river. Each alleyways bears witness to the cosmopolitan past of this region.

Starting with Notre Dame de l’Immaculée Conception, its surprising cathedral, both Gothic and coloured in pastel shades. Built during the French occupation (1893-1905), it houses a statue of the Virgin Mary adorned with over 200,000 precious stones, donated by the local population. Chanthaburi is indeed famous for its gem trade, as well as for its local markets, which are brimming an impressive variety of fruits, including the must-try durians and mangosteens.

Phayao, the Venice of the North

Nestled on the shores of the Kwan Phayao, a large expanse of freshwater, this town has a remarkable idyllic setting. With a surface area of around 20 km², the lake is the beating heart of the city, sheltering beneath its waters the remains of Wat Tilok Aram, a 15th-century temple. The Thai Lue tribe, renowned for their silk and cotton weaving crafts, perpetuate an ancestral way of life here.

At sunset, the riverbanks come alive, and both locals and visitors come to admire the spectacle, sample local culinary specialities such as grilled tilapia and enjoy the mild evening air. With its tranquillity and unspoilt authenticity, Phayao is a much-needed break, far from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism.

Betong, gateway to the Deep South

On the edge of Thailand, just a few kilometres from the border with Malaysia, Betong holds an intriguing and complex history. The « peace village » and the Piyamit tunnels are fascinating relics of this tumultuous past. The village, once a refuge for members of the Malay Communist Party, is now home to a museum, while the Piyamit underground network, stretching for almost a kilometre, was used to hide up to 200 insurgents.

Beyond these historic sites, breathtaking mountain landscapes surround the town. Betong is also known for its natural hot springs, ideal for relaxing after a day’s exploring.