Far from the crowds: Thailand’s hidden gems

Thailand might be a long-haul favourite, but there’s far more to it than buzzing cities and postcard beaches. Look a little closer and you’ll find quiet coves, jungle-fringed parks and places that still feel refreshingly under the radar.

Here are a few hidden gems well worth seeking out on your next trip to Thailand. 

Phuket – Laem Sing Beach

Laem Sing Beach is easily one of Phuket’s prettiest stretches of sand, tucked away on the west coast between Kamala and Surin. While it’s no longer a total secret, it still feels far more hidden than many of the island’s main beaches. This small bay is framed by palms and giant boulders, giving it a slightly wild, castaway feel – a bit like a mini Seychelles. It’s a great spot for a slower-paced beach day, with clear waters that are ideal for snorkelling when conditions are right. .

Hua Hin – Phrayanakorn Cave

If you’re up for a bit of adventure, the climb to Phraya Nakhon Cave is well worth the effort. The trail is steep in places, so good shoes and plenty of water are a must. After around 30 minutes, the reward is pretty unforgettable – a vast limestone cave with a natural skylight and a royal pavilion sitting right in the middle. When the sunlight hits just right, it’s one of those wow moments you don’t forget in a hurry.

Bangkok – Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market

Bang Nam Pheung is located in an unusual loop of the Chao Phraya River nicknamed 'the Green Lung of Bangkok', a surprisingly untouched area considering how close it is to the heart of the city. A complete contrast to touristy Damnoen Saduak, Bang Nam Pheung is a real local's market with many a sweet snack and sizzling seafood dish to try. Whilst it doesn't offer the same photo opportunities as its well-known counterparts, it still has plenty of charm, largely created by the seller's smiling faces.

Krabi – Ban Bor Thor Caves

Travel 40 minutes north of Krabi and discover a network of rivers, inlets and limestone caves in Ban Bor Thor National Park, thought to be one of the earliest sites of human occupation in Thailand. Rich in archaeological treasures and artefacts, rent a kayak and spend some time paddling down the narrow channels between the mangroves and watch the wildlife that inhabits the water before entering Tham Lod Cave. This cave will take you under the cliffs, decorated by stalactites and stalagmites. If you're still feeling adventurous then visit Tham Pee Hua Toh Cave, which holds remarkable 3,000 year old cave drawings.

Koh Samui – Bangrak Beach

You may have read about many 'pristine' beaches in Thailand but Bangrak Beach really is exceptional. These glistening sands run from Big Buddha Temple through to the headland that marks the beginning of Bophut Beach. Often overlooked by tourists, you can have a little spot to yourself, enjoy some of the hidden bars along the shore and dine on mouth-watering street food at fantastic prices. 

Khao Lak – Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park

Immediately south of Hat Khao Lak, the vast Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park is a combination of sea cliffs, 1000m-high hills, golden beaches, forested valleys and mangrove swamps. With such a diverse landscape, you'll be able to spot a variety of wildlife, including hornbills, drongos, tapirs, gibbons, monkeys and Asiatic black bears. Visit the small visitor centre to dine at its open-air restaurant with breathtaking sea views.

Chiang Mai– Wat Sri Suphan

Located just outside Chiang Mai near its southwest corner, Wat Sri Suphan, nicknamed the Silver Temple, is a relatively unknown treasure despite it being the only silver temple in Thailand.

In a district known for its silver making workshops, this temple is clad in silver with intricate panels all along the exterior of the temple. Each panel depicts scenes of elephants in the jungle, elaborate clouds and key moments from Buddha’s life.