Central Thailand is a general name for the region that includes, among others, the The capital city of Thailand - Bangkok. But in fact, there is much more to the center of Thailand than Bangkok and although it is naturally the center of attention, there are many places nearby, some of which are completely different from it and offer a much quieter and more relaxed experience.
Either way, it is the beating heart of the Kingdom of Siam and as such it is also the most populated area in it. There are no less than 26 districts in the center of Thailand with thousands of historical and heritage sites alongside various attractions suitable for tourists of every type, sex, religion, race and age - so you can easily find a variety of activities that will enjoy your time.
From a topographical point of view, this is a flat area whose borders are mountains and hills and it is a starting point for many day trips and it serves as an intermediate point where many travelers stop before continuing on to various destinations throughout Thailand or in neighboring countries.
Among the many sites in central Thailand you can find antiquities sites, museums, National parks, hiking trails, bathing beaches, observation points, temples, palaces, markets, excellent restaurants and quite a few shopping centers. The many options make the area excellent for a trip in any vehicle and whether you are a backpacker, a loving couple or a family with small children - you will not be disappointed.
How to get there?
The simplest and most convenient way to get to the central region of Thailand is by use of public transport. There are quite a few bus lines that pass through different cities in this area and there are also major train lines that pass through it. In general, the travel time by train and bus does not have a significant difference, so if it is an air-conditioned bus and the travel hours are reasonable - then it is the cheapest and most worthwhile option.
In addition to public transportation, you can also reach the center of Thailand by flight Departing from the main airports e.g Bangkok airport. In this case it is important to take into account that you will have to use public transportation in any case in order to reach the exact final destination and if you take into account the difference in prices and the time you will spend at the airports before and after the flight - it is not sure that this is the most profitable option.
major cities
Bangkok
The capital city of Thailand is also usually the destination where tourists arriving to the exotic country land and from which they will take off when they want to continue their journey. As such, Bangkok is the kicking center of the Kingdom of Siam and whoever says about Tel Aviv that it is a city that never rests - better jump to Bangkok. The vibrant city continues to bubble 24/7 and some claim that its flashy nature bordering on over-urbanism is a little hard to digest for those who are visiting the country for the first time. Well, after you come to your senses you can enjoy plenty of attractions and activities, temples, restaurants, markets and shopping centers.
For everything you need to know about Bangkok, click here.
Ayutthaya
North of Bangkok lies one of the oldest cities in Thailand full of history and sacred heritage sites that attract curious tourists alongside local religious and spiritual people.
Until it was destroyed by the Burmese, the city of Ayutthaya served as the second capital city of Thailand and today, due to the remains of the ruins and the holy places found in it, it is recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO. During the visit to the area, you can fully appreciate less than 400 temples and countless Buddhist statues.
For everything you need to know about Ayutthaya click here.
Kanchanaburi
About three hours' drive west of Bangkok, on the banks of the River Kwai and near the border with Burma, is the resort town of Kanchanaburi. This is a very favorite destination for families, young people and couples who come to the Bangkok area and want to enjoy a pampering vacation away from the busy city and this pleasant city undoubtedly exceeds expectations. During your visit to the city, you can visit magnificent temples, magical waterfalls, river cruises and quite a few spa centers where you can find relaxation.
For everything you need to know about Kanchanaburi click here.
Patia
The city of Pattaya lies on the coast right next to the capital city of Bangkok and is considered one of the most favorite resorts for visitors to the capital city who often visit the pleasant beaches and spa centers located there. In addition to the tummy-to-back experience, you can enjoy the lively night life of Patia, the excellent restaurants, pubs, clubs and extensive marine activities.
For everything you need to know about Pattaya click here.
Ko Chang
Unlike its predecessors, the picturesque island of Ko Chang has not many more than five thousand inhabitants and as such it provides a much more relaxed atmosphere compared to the big cities that share the central region of Thailand with it. In order to get to the island, you can use public transportation services (about a six-hour drive) or board a short flight from Bangkok that will take you to the pastoral island with pristine beaches, pleasant hiking trails, rainforests and breathtaking views.
For everything you need to know about Koh Chang, click here.
5 must-see attractions in central Thailand
The Grand Palace in Bangkok
What used to be the official palace of the King of Thailand is actually a complex of several royal buildings located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the capital city of Bangkok. Today the place is used for official ceremonies and it is home to one of the most famous temples in Thailand, aka Wat Phra Kaew - Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
The site has an outer courtyard where there is also a visitor center and a small museum, a central courtyard with important buildings and a spectacular temple and an inner courtyard that serves as a palace where the king's wives and children live.
Ayutthaya
Although it is also included in the list of the main cities, the old city of Ayutthaya is undoubtedly a site that you should not miss even if you do not intend to spend the night nearby. This is a particularly popular day trip among travelers in the area where you can admire the ruins of the old city and tour beautiful temples and important heritage sites. History buffs will find the site particularly fascinating.
Erawan National Park (Erawan National Park)
A spectacular nature reserve that covers over 500 square kilometers of wild nature, the highlight of which is the Seven Waterfalls Park in Kanchanaburi - the seven waterfalls that flow in it and give it a heavenly appearance. In addition to visiting the waterfalls, you can take a walk on the walking paths in the park, Climb to the top of the mountain and enjoy a panoramic lookout, visit the caves and be impressed by the abundance of plants and animals.
Omega trip in Patia
Omega Park in Patia is one of the main attractions in the area and one of the most enjoyable activities you can do with a family. In the park located in the rain forest of Patia, you will find a challenging omega track that will force you to face your fear of heights (if any) and surf through the trees as if you were the bravest of the brave.
Although it sounds somewhat scary, this is an activity that does not require any previous experience and is also suitable for very small children, from 4 to 120 years old.
Cooking course in Koh Chang
One of the wonderful things about Thailand is the wide variety of activities it offers to its visitors - from experiences you could do anywhere else, such as tanning or a massage, to activities that will authentically connect you to the real Thailand, such as a cooking course. In the cooking course, which lasts a few hours, you will learn to prepare the most popular traditional dishes, choose the right ingredients and slowly become addicted to the spicy taste. At the end of the activity there is a corruption dinner, so that at least you will be satisfied.
