From Temples to Treetops: Adventure-Seeker’s Guide to Thailand

Thailand is a glorious land of natural beauty – famous for its rugged limestone karsts, lush greenery, crystal-blue oceans and sandy white beaches. Along with the natural beauty, Thailand is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts. From exploring ancient temples to soaring through tree top canopies, here is an adventure-seeker guide to Thailand:

Exploring the Temples

With over 40,717 Buddhist temples dotting the geography, Thailand is known to have many historical temples. Each one of them has its significance and history that needs to be remembered. 

Bangkok: 

• Grand Palace and Wat Pho: In the bustling capital of Bangkok, one can visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho to marvel at intricate architecture and the famous Reclining Buddha.  It is one of the most beautiful temples in Bangkok, located in the vicinity of the Grand Palace. It has that royal status, that sees a heavy footfall all through the year due to the highly revered marvel that it has.
  
• Wat Phra Kaew – Wat Phra Kaew is the famous temple of the Emerald Buddha, situated in the Grand Palace and has the holy statue of the Buddha. The image is carved from a single piece of green jade and some precious jewels which makes it much more significant. 
• Wat Arun – Wat Arun is a famous temple which is famously seen on postcards and souvenirs of the country. One can witness one of the royal temples in Thailand, and undoubtedly the most dazzling one in town. It is located on the riverbanks of the Chao Phraya River. The 80-meter prang shoots into the sky, clearly seen from the sky as well. There are huge halls, pavilions and over a hundred images of Buddha which denotes the different periods of his life.
  
• Loha Prasat –  Loha Prasat looks like more of a castle which will mesmerize people to the core. Built during the 19th century, it is considered to be one of the most unique temples in Thailand, and also one of the most amazing temples in Bangkok.  It has 37 black metal spires poking into the sky, which represents the 37 virtues needed for enlightenment. There are some meditation cells where monks sit for their prayers and the shrines are built up on the top floors.
  
• Wat Saket – Wat Saket is one of the oldest temples in Thailand, dating back to the Ayutthaya era. It has a great history which says that initially, it was a resting place for the cremation when many people died due to the epidemic and their ashes were laid down here. Then, it was converted into a temple with a great golden stupa upon a hill, known as the Phu Khao Thong or the famous Golden Mount. Some special ceremonies happen at Wat Saket in November, where the procession of candle-bearing locals climbs up the mountain at night.
  
  

Chiang Rai

Wat Rong Khun – Wat Rong Khun is popularly known as the “white temple”. Undoubtedly, it is the most beautiful temple among the Thai temples in Thailand. It is a white-castle-looking temple that stands against a pond and has beautiful greenery all around. Every detail of the temple symbolises the Buddha’s teachings.

Chiang Mai

Wat Phra Singh – Wat Phra Singh is the Monastery of the Lion Buddha and is a beautiful temple in Old Chiang Mai City. it has a unique structure and flaunts a very attractive architecture made in classic Lanna style. There is a huge hall or an assembly hall carved with rich gold and ochre detailing. One cannot miss the beautiful mural walls that come with different stories from the Buddha’s life. 

There is a sculpture library on the grounds of the temple that has books of ancient texts, monk residences and another building that holds a golden reclining Buddha statue. 

Krabi

Wat Tham Suea –  Wat Tham Suea is also known as the tiger cave temple in Thailand. It is surrounded by green jungles and a maze of natural caves all around. Tourists can admire the historical and archaeological findings that can be of great value, including stone tools, pottery remains and much more. 

Pattaya

Sanctuary of Truth – This temple is made entirely of wood and showcases such intricate carvings that mesmerize everyone. It is an architectural wonder and is a tribute to the dexterity of Thai craftsmanship with minute carvings of patterns from Thai, Cambodian, Indian, and Chinese traditions. 

It is an unusual temple, devoid of the principal deity image found in all other temples in Thailand. Instead, it depicts many deities from many Eastern cultures. 

Ayutthaya: Travellers having a keen interest in history can explore the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site with impressive temples and historical ruins. Visitors can explore and appreciate Thai History in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, which is only 86 kilometres north of Bangkok. They can marvel at its grandeur reflected through numerous magnificent temples and ruins concentrated in and around the City, which is located upon an “Island” surrounded by the Chao Phraya, Pa Sak and Lopburi Rivers.

Enjoying adventure activities

• Rock Climbing in Railay: Nestled in Krabi, Railay is a haven for rock climbers. The stunning limestone cliffs offer various climbing levels, and the top views are breathtaking.
• Scuba diving in Similan Islands: Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, the Similan Islands are a scuba diver’s paradise. One can explore underwater landscapes teeming with coral reefs and diverse marine species. Diving into Thailand’s crystal-clear oceans may seem more like leisure than adventure. These colourful coral reefs are full of awe-inspiring sea life, including rays, cephalopods, turtles and even sharks.
  One can also join a shark or whale shark dive to see these magnificent fish in their natural environment. Whale sharks are gentle giants that mesmerise with their size.
  
  As for sharks, there is nothing quite dangerously exciting like being in the presence of a dangerous, wild and unpredictable animal to get the blood pumping like crazy.

• Zip-lining: Adrenaline rush seekers can experience the thrill of zip-lining through the treetops in the lush rainforests of Chiang Mai. The Flight of the Gibbon adventure park offers zip lines, sky bridges, and abseiling.
  
  Zip-lining is a great activity for families or groups with mixed abilities because even though it is thrilling, it is also very safe and gentle – Flying through the beautiful green canopy while admiring the view below.
  
  Most zip-line parks also have alternative activities, such as canopy boardwalks, ATV tracks, playgrounds and interesting statues to admire. One features a rollercoaster and another features elephants and gibbons that one can spot while zipping through the treeline.
• Bungee Jumping: For the ultimate adrenaline rush, one must try bungee jumping as there is no denying bungee jumping is an activity that is perfect for adventure seekers. Throwing oneself off a super-high platform while trusting a few threads of rope to catch the fall is equal measures of bravery and craziness but undeniably exciting and fun. Thailand is a great place to try this activity, as one would be surrounded by gorgeous scenery while taking the jump. There is also the human slingshot, where the person and his bungee cord are stretched back and let go, just like its namesake suggests. 
  The Pattaya Bungee Jump offers a thrilling experience with safety measures in place.
• Rope swing in Krabi: More akin to bungee jumping than swinging, the ‘Emperor Swing’ at Hollow Mountain Extreme Adventure Park, Krabi is said to be Southeast Asia’s biggest rope swing. After harnessing up to the 120m-long swing, one has to jump off the 55m-high platform and swing through a rock opening, gaining spectacular views of the jungle below.  
• • Elephant Sanctuary Visit: Chiang Mai and Phuket: Travellers can opt for ethical elephant experiences in sanctuaries focusing on conservation and welfare. It gives one the scope to interact with these majestic creatures responsibly and sustainably.

• Elephant Trekking: The experience of enjoying the natural landscape of Thailand while sitting on the top of elephants provides an unusual activity. There are special camps arranged for trekking lovers while providing one with the experience of trekking with some friendly elephants. Most importantly, Chang Thai Thappraya Safari is famous in Pattaya for its adventurous activities. 
• Hiking in Doi Inthanon National Park: It is exciting to scale the highest peak in Thailand at Doi Inthanon National Park. Hike through the park’s trails, discover waterfalls, and experience the unique flora and fauna of the region.
• White-Water Rafting in Pai River: Travellers can try white-water rafting in the Pai River for an adrenaline rush. The scenic surroundings and varying rapids make it a thrilling adventure.
• Island Hopping in the Gulf of Thailand – Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui: Travellers can explore the Gulf of Thailand by hopping between islands. Koh Tao is famous for diving, Koh Phangan for its Full Moon Party, and Koh Samui for its diverse activities.

• Trekking in Khao Sok National Park: The lush jungles of Khao Sok National Park are ideal for trekking adventures. Travellers discover hidden caves, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife.
• • Cycling in Sukhothai: The ancient ruins of Sukhothai can be explored on a bicycle. The Sukhothai Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and cycling allows one to cover the vast area while enjoying the historical wonders.
    

• Mountain Biking: Thailand is an ideal location for mountain bike enthusiasts. It offers diverse terrains, breathtaking landscapes, and many trails to explore, from mountains to lush forests. One of Thailand’s most popular mountain biking destinations is Chiang Mai and Koh Chang. With their hilly terrain, waterfalls, and tropical rainforests, both destinations provide a unique and adventurous biking experience. Interestingly, for more experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Khao Yai National Park is an excellent choice.
  

• Skydiving: Thailand also offers the most adventurous activity of all – skydiving. Thailand is beautiful from the ground, so one can imagine how good it looks from the air. There are multiple skydiving locations in Thailand, where one can take a leap of faith over the azure oceans or emerald mountain ranges. Bravehearts can even brave the highest skydive in Asia (18,000ft) at Thai Sky Adventures, or become certified so he can dive without a tandem partner. 
  

• Flyboarding: Flyboarding involves strapping water-propelled jets to one’s legs. Thankfully, there is no crash landing here, because if one loses balance, he would just fall or dive into the water below! This activity is so much fun. Participants in this can control how gentle or extreme the experience is, so it is good for all ages.
  

• Cave Canoeing and Kayaking: For people to whom being in pitch black sends thrilling shivers down the spine, caving would be an exciting option. Thailand has hundreds of long, deep and dark caves, often partially water-filled. Thailand has many stunning caves and waterways, offering fantastic opportunities for canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts. It allows one to witness unique geological formations, experience the serenity of hidden caverns, and discover the natural wonders of Thailand. 

Phang Nga Bay, located near Phuket is famous for its limestone karsts rising dramatically from emerald-green waters. Thailand has Khao Sok National Park, a paradise for nature lovers. Most interestingly, it has stunning Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush rainforests.

These can be explored on tours or by oneself. Assistance from concierge luxury travel would be recommended for the tour though, as there are obvious dangers associated with trekking through the country’s underworld. Thailand’s national parks are good places to head for cave tours, which usually feature other gorgeous sites and experiences in beautiful jungle surroundings. 

Conclusion

Thailand is a vibrant and diverse destination that offers a wide range of activities for travellers. Whether one is interested in cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply wants to relax on beautiful beaches, Thailand has something to offer for everyone. Thus, luxury tours are increasingly becoming popular in this country. The Best Luxury Concierge can guide interested visitors on how to plan an itinerary to Thailand, prioritising their needs and preferences. Whether one is exploring historical sites, diving into the depths of the sea, or soaring through the treetops, Thailand offers an adventure for every thrill-seeker.

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