Thailand enjoys three cultural and two natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as a handful of attractions on UNESCO’s tentative list. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Thailand’s rich history and heritage, each of these important sites -- carefully preserved for generations to come -- are absolute must-sees. Let All Asia Tours take you there.

The Historic Town of Sukhothai
With AAT’s signature Thailand travel, enjoy opportunities to travel to Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns -- once the capital of the Kingdom of Sukhothai. This region is known for being the birthplace of Thai culture, including the Thai language and ‘Sukhothai style’ art and architecture. As you meander past scores of temples and pagodas, you’ll be struck by their elegant designs and the city’s organization. In fact, Sukhothai was likely constructed by the Khmer in the 12th or 13th centuries A.D., and the site’s moats and temples look similar to Angkor Wat’s.

The Historic City of Ayutthaya
Like Sukhothai, Ayutthaya was an ancient Thai capital and founded in the mid-1300s. Soon, this site mushroomed into a cosmopolitan urban center with strong international influence, including in trade. Unfortunately, Ayutthaya suffered an attack from the Burmese in the 18th century and never fully recovered. Today, you can still get a sense of the kingdom’s past majesty as you explore the archaeological ruins. Climb toward the towering prang towers that dot the landscape, explore the remains of meditating Buddha sculpture, and marvel at the Buddha image entwined in bodhi tree roots.

Ban Chiang Archaeological Site
At Ban Chiang in Udon Thani Province, you have the rare opportunity to glimpse Thailand’s prehistoric past. Ban Chiang is credited with a variety of innovations in Thai culture including pottery production, crafting bronze tools, domesticating animals, and more. In fact, Ban Chiang is home to more ancient artifacts than any other site in Southeast Asia. You’ll be amazed at the craftsmanship of each of these items including a variety of iron tools, sophisticated ceramic jars with intricate paintwork, and more.

Dong Phayayen-Khao Forest Complex
Hands down, this forest preserve is one of the most beautiful natural sites in Thailand. You’ll be amazed at the region’s diversity, home to over 800 varieties of animals and plants. Dong Phayayen-Khao also serves as a habitat for endangered species including Siamese crocodiles, Asian elephants, tigers, gibbons, and more. UNESCO has also recognized the importance of the region’s tropical forest ecosystems for protecting and preserving these threatened animal species.

Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries
Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng also is a perfect place to immerse yourself in pristine, foliage-covered forests. This region boasts a variety of forests -- almost all of the types found in Southeast Asia. In the sanctuary, you can also discover two important rivers: the Huai Khakhaeng and the Upper Khwae Yai. UNESCO recognized the sanctuary not only for its astounding natural beauty, but also for its diverse blend of geographic zones: Indo-Burmese, Indo- Chinese, Sino-Himalayan, and Sundaic. If you’re lucky, you may glimpse some of Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng’s many animal species, as well as birds and fish.

No matter where you visit in the world, dining is an important family and social activity. Thailand, with its world-renowned cuisine, is no exception. You’ve likely sampled some Thai food at home, but perhaps you didn’t know that the country boasts a wide range of flavors and dishes from north to south. Let All Asia Tours take you on a culinary adventure into the ‘Land of 1,000 Smiles,’ where you’ll have the chance to sample everything from super- spicy curries to the country’s quintessential pad thai. What better way to treat your taste buds?

Years ago, neighboring countries -- including China, India, and Cambodia -- influenced Thai cuisine as we know it today. Most Thai dishes feature a balance of salty, sour, sweet, and spicy tastes, and Thai curries typically use infusions of Indian spices to create strong flavors. Yet, many Thai meals make use of local ingredients such as Thai basil and ginger, as well as plenty of fresh herbs and aromatics like lemongrass. In addition, fragrant jasmine rice is native to Thailand and provides a satisfying accompaniment to many meals.

One of Central Thailand’s most popular dishes is pad thai, which begins with a base of stir-fried rice noodles. Your plate may include a variety of toppings -- everything from plump prawns, cubed tofu, bean sprouts, green onion, peanuts, and a squeeze of fresh lime. Some versions even come with a thin egg omelet. You may have tried this signature Thai dish before, but one of the best ways to enjoy a steaming meal of pad thai is amid the hustle and bustle of Bangkok at a celebrated local restaurant or street vendor.

Southern Thailand, home to countless coconut groves, is celebrated for its extremely spicy cuisine and curries. Here, you’ll find plenty of delicious foods to try, as well as extremely fresh (and mouthwatering!) seafood. Gaeng leung yod maprao pla -- a thick yellow curry packed with pure spice -- is a popular favorite in the south. The curry showcases generously sized morsels of fish (sometimes with the skin still on), as well as coconut shoots.

Northern Thailand’s dishes are worlds away from what you’ll find in the south and central regions. If you venture up to Thailand’s picturesque and rugged north (particularly Chiang Mai), you’ll want to try one of the area’s most popular dishes – khao soi or coconut curry noodle soup. Unlike pad thai’s rice noodles, khao soi uses egg noodles made from wheat that float in an aromatic broth. You can add in a delicious variety of garnishes and toppings such as shallot, fermented vegetables, and ground chilies.

Northeastern Thailand is home to traditional Issan food. You’ll find a wide variety of dishes to try including laab, a minced meat (often pork) salad flavored with ground toasted rice, shallots, coriander, and a handful of fresh herbs. Issan fermented sausage is another local favorite, and these smoky, meaty morsels are packed with plenty of tangy and savory flavors.

When it comes to photographing Thailand, you’ll need your camera at the ready every second of the day. You can take your pick of stunning architecture shots, landscape and seascape photos, wildlife pictures, charming images of daily life in the cities and countryside, food photography, and so much more. Embark on the Thailand journey of a lifetime and see what all you can discover in the amazing ‘Land of 1,000 Smiles’ through your camera lens.

Begin in Bangkok and seek out some images of this bustling capital city’s major landmarks. For excellent art and architecture photography, explore the Grand Palace and nearby Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) where you can capture a range of fascinating images -- from long range shots of the temple’s gilded spires and bright orange roof to close-ups of the ornate statues and artworks that adorn the interior and exterior. Inside Wat Phra Kaew, you can glimpse the country’s most cherished image -- the Emerald Buddha. Note that this celebrated statue isn’t easy to photograph unless you bring appropriate lenses; the Buddha is fairly small at 26 inches (66 cm) tall and sits high above in an ornately gilded shrine. Yet, if you venture to Bangkok’s Wat Pho, just behind Wat Phra Kaew, you’ll find a 150-feet long (46 m) golden Reclining Buddha sculpture that makes for absolutely stunning photographs. Take time to explore more of the Wat Pho temple, and you’ll find hand-painted designs that illustrate scenes from the Ramakien, Thailand’s epic poem. These intricate images make for compelling detail images.

For more incredible photo opportunities, venture to Thailand’s northern highlands, known for their picturesque mountain ranges that frame the vast skyline. In Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, you’ll find pristine landscapes that call out to the latent nature lover in each of us. From December to February, you may even be lucky enough to glimpse the region’s gorgeous cherry blossoms that paint the trees and surrounding foliage in soft shades of rose and blush pink. Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are also excellent places to take advantage of ‘golden hour’ -- the hour just before sunset when the sky casts the natural surroundings in warm, amber light. While the mountains, terraced rice fields, lush foliage forests, and lakes are beautiful at just about any time of day, golden hour makes these fairy tale landscapes look completely enchanting.

For photos that evoke a sense of Thailand’s rich history and heritage, journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya. At Sukhothai Historical Park, you can capture striking shots of these ancient ruins and surrounding foliage during the day or stay until nighttime when the temples are illuminated in bright light. Ayutthaya is home to a number of photogenic Buddha image, including a Buddha head entwined in the roots of a bodhi tree. No matter your skills or experience with a camera, let All Asia Tours help you capture Thailand’s boundless beauty in photos you’ll treasure for years to come.

Thailand -- Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist destination -- welcomes countless overseas travelers each year. While travel and tourism have made a strong impact on modern-day Thai life, this intriguing and beautiful country still holds on to its rich history and traditions. Even Bangkok, which continues catapulting forward into the frenetic pace of the 21st century, still retains its charming atmosphere. Let All Asia Tours take you on a memorable adventure into what makes Thailand so unique – the devout Buddhist culture, local practices, and fascinating hilltribe villages.

A visit to Bangkok throws you into the epicenter of Thailand’s vibrant urban culture. As you steer clear from whirring tuk-tuks and zipping motorbikes that fill the bustling streets, you’ll likely pass by charming boutiques, street vendors, cafés, and locals hustling to their next destination. Yet amid this thrilling hubbub, try visiting a Bangkok night market -- one of the best ways to experience city culture. You’ll be swept away by the colorful, festival-like atmosphere as you tour the vast array of merchandise, food, and local crafts. Rot Fai Market in Srinakarin, an open-air bazaar on Bangkok’s east side, is an international favorite. As the sun goes down, this market comes alive with a spectrum of jewel-toned tents scattered in rows across the market square. Here, you’ll find so much to enjoy -- everything from fascinating vintage items to plenty of tantalizing restaurants and snack stalls.

Bangkok may be Thailand’s modern-day capital, but other areas of the country offer plenty of sites with strong cultural and religious significance. Explore Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, two of Thailand’s prominent UNESCO- recognized sites. Sukhothai enjoyed prosperity during the 13th and 14th centuries, and you’ll uncover important Buddhist temples among its many ruins. The temple ruins of Ayutthaya, located a few hours north of Bangkok, may have been part of the world’s largest city centuries ago. Here, you can glimpse one of the country’s most iconic Buddha statues – the face of the Buddha, completely wrapped in bodhi tree roots.

While Thailand is home to numerous hilltribes, there are six major groups: the Karen, Meo, Lahu, Akha, Lisu, and Yao, and each community plays an important role in Thailand’s culture. Many of these highland peoples live in the country’s northern mountain regions near the Golden Triangle -- the meeting place of the Thai, Lao, and Myanmar borders. Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to this picturesque region, where you can learn about the villages’ local life and traditions that have been honored for generations.

Visiting Thailand’s hilltribes also offers an incredible opportunity to experience a unique way of life that focuses on the simple pleasures, strong family and community ties, and generous hospitality. All Asia Tours’ signature Thailand tours take you into hilltribe villages near Chiang Rai, and here, you can learn about these fascinating lifestyles at a hilltribe museum and local market. From lively market exchanges to traditional handcrafted garments, you’ll see that hilltribe culture in Thailand is alive and well.

Everyone loves a festival, and the Thai people are no exception. Annual celebrations are important to everyday life and culture, bringing people from across the country (and in some cases, the world) together for plenty of fun and relaxation. You can find a unique Thai festival happening almost every month of the year, and with All Asia Tours, you can jump right into the festival fun. Take a look at some of the country’s favorites below:

Songkran (New Year’s)
Songkran (also known as Thailand’s Traditional New Year and Water Festival) takes place in mid-April, and a Songkran Thailand tour offers lively and fun-filled atmospheres. Yet for the uninitiated, Songkran is surprising on many levels -- it’s one of Thailand’s most important annual festivals, and it involves a massive countrywide water fight! You’ll hear waves of cheers crashing through the air as gallons of water from buckets and squirt guns pummel passers-by. Many international travelers also come to Thailand during this time to participate in the festivities, and with the exceptions of the elderly and monks, everyone gets drenched to the skin. According to history and cultural tradition, Songkran offers a break from work, quality time with family and friends, and chances to make offers at temples -- excellent ways to start the new year on the right foot.

Lopburi Monkey Festival
While Songkran may be Thailand’s most popular celebration, the Lopburi Monkey Festival (also known as the Monkey Buffet) is certainly the most unique. Venture into the heart of Lopburi’s ruins and San Phra Kan monument at the end of November, and you’ll find scores of long-tailed macaques scurrying about, gathering as much food as they can find (and their stomachs can hold)! According to tradition, locals donate a cornucopia of fresh, tropical fruits that are piled in the streets and on house roofs. Be aware -- these fuzzy guests don’t always stop at the food banquet and may try to snatch your purse or camera!

Festivals of Lights
Hands down -- Loy Krathong and Yi Peng, also known as Thailand’s Festivals of Lights, should not be missed. In major centers like Bangkok and Sukhothai, locals take lotus-shaped baskets with candles in hand, letting these lanterns set sail along the gently flowing rivers. Embark on a trip north to witness Yi Peng in Chiang Mai, a beautiful celebration of sky lanterns. As these luminaries ascend to the sky, they represent wishes for good luck and prayers floating to the heavens.

Phi Ta Khon
Head northeast to the sleepy village of Dan Sai, tucked away in the mountains of Loei province, to see Thailand’s Phi Ta Khon (Ghost Festival). This unusual celebration typically takes place in June and involves a lively procession where locals don colorful costumes and massive masks with fang-like teeth while clanging cowbells to announce the ghosts’ arrival. Phi Ta Khon lasts for three days, and you can expect song and dance, entertaining parades, and plenty of merriment. International tourists don’t typically attend since the province is quite remote, so if you’re looking for a rare Thailand cultural experience, make sure to schedule your itinerary around the fascinating Ghost Festival.

When people think of Thailand, they often imagine the country’s pristine beaches, coastal resorts, and the hubbub of Bangkok. Yet, the ‘Land of 1,000 Smiles’ offers plenty of opportunities to step outside and bask in the natural wonders that surround you. From the rugged mountains in the north to the stunning limestone karsts in the south, this biodiverse country offers a wide range of ecosystems and habitats, as well as flora and fauna. Lace up your hiking boots or grab your diving gear, and let All Asia Tours take you on the trip of a lifetime to wild Thailand.

Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai in the north are a trekker’s dream. You’ll find plenty of hiking trails that range from moderate to difficult, so you’re certain to find the right challenge for your unique level. The scenic north also boasts deep valleys, lush vegetation, and hilltribe villages that preserve centuries-old traditions. Venture to Chiang Rai during the cool season, and you’ll be able to glimpse stunning vistas of atmospheric mountains and bright green fields. This region is also home to gorgeous waterfalls that cascade down to misty pools below. And if you wish to get up close to Asian elephants, Chiang Mai has ethical elephant sanctuaries where you can commune with these majestic creatures in their natural habitats.

Thailand is also home to numerous national parks -- perfect places for basking in pristine nature and spotting wildlife. One of the most famous is UNESCO-recognized Khao Yai, located in Central Thailand. You’ll find plenty of hiking and biking trails, as well as stunning waterfalls. If you keep your eyes open, you may be lucky enough to see all sorts of animals including elephants, deer, gibbons, and macaques. Khao Yai is also home to vast varieties of birds and reptiles like hornbills, Asian fairy bluebirds, water dragons, crested lizards, and many more.

Travel from inland Thailand to the coast, and you’ll find yourself in a fantasy paradise of shimmering white shores, flowing turquoise waters, arching palm trees, and expansive skies. In Krabi, Thailand, you’ll discover thick jungles, secret grottoes, and towering limestone karst cliffs. If you’re feeling up for an adventure, set sail to nearby foliage-covered islands or explore some of the region’s cave systems. In fact, some of the larger caverns have been converted into Buddhist shrines. In picturesque Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, take a deep dive into the Andaman Sea to glimpse the coral reefs that fringe the sands and multicolored coral fish. Some scuba divers in Phuket are even lucky enough to spot manta rays, turtles, eels, clownfish, and variety of sharks.

For the outdoor adventure of a lifetime, travel to Thailand - - where there truly is something for everyone. Whether you love to trek through forested landscapes and rolling hills, scuba dive and snorkel at one of the world’s most beautiful coasts, or spend time in national parks spotting rare wildlife, All Asia Tours has you covered.

A family vacation in Thailand gives your loved ones an unforgettable gift -- the chance to learn about the country’s fascinating culture, tour some of Southeast Asia’s most stunning temples and local attractions, and get away from the frantic pace of daily life as you stretch out on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. From the whirlwind of Bangkok to Thailand’s scenic northern highlands and southern shores, you’ll find so many opportunities to strengthen family ties and make lasting memories in the ‘Land of 1,000 Smiles.’ Speak with an All Asia Tours travel expert today; we’re excited to help you and your family create the Thailand trip of a lifetime.

You may not immediately think of Bangkok family travel as a viable option, but this bustling capital city offers so many unique activities for all ages. Your family can immerse themselves in the city’s most celebrated temples such as Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and stunning Wat Arun that sits along the Chao Phraya River. You can also try a Chao Phraya dinner cruise as a family. What a treat to enjoy a family dinner as you witness dynamic Bangkok aglow with colorful lights! If you’re interested in AAT’s custom travel options, we can take you on exciting explorations at Bangkok’s Ocean World and Safari World -- perfect places to glimpse fascinating species of animals and marine life. Bangkok also offers a variety of theme parks, a water park, and an interactive art gallery to capture your loved one’s imaginations.

Head north to Chiang Mai where you can explore Doi Inthanon National Park, ethical elephant sanctuaries, and local hilltribe communities. Doi Inthanon is a natural wonder with lovely vistas, lush foliage, and scores of bird species. In fact, this park is an excellent place for bird watching, and you may even be lucky enough to spot some rare varieties! A visit to an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai is another wonderfully enriching experience. You and your family will enjoy rare treats -- chances to feed, help bathe, and even play with these majestic creatures. Chiang Mai also offers the unique chance to glimpse the centuries-old traditions of local hilltribe peoples, which provide a wonderful lesson in finding true happiness in life’s simple pleasures.

If you and your family crave a relaxing beach vacation, Thailand offers a bounty of pristine beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, watersports, and even nature hikes. Krabi is an especially fun and kid-friendly destination; here, you’ll find everything from fun parks to chances to go rock climbing along limestone cliffs. The soft white sands and shimmering teal waters are perfect for watersports such as scuba diving, snorkeling, canoeing, and more. If you and your family feel adventurous, try hopping into a boat and explore the nearby offshore islands. Other stunning Thailand beach destinations include Phuket and Ko Samui, also home to plenty of outdoor activities and world-class beach resorts. Of course, these tropical paradises are truly sublime when you’re with the ones you love.

Thailand’s beautiful beaches are no secret; for decades, travelers have flocked here for the inspiring seascapes, stunning sunsets, delicious cuisine, tranquil atmospheres, and vibrant party scenes. The country boasts over 1,031 miles (1,660 km) of gorgeous coastline along the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, as well as scores of pristine off-shore islands just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking to pamper yourself with a tranquil tropical getaway, enjoy a picture-perfect honeymoon, or try an active outdoor adventure with plenty of water sports, Thailand’s shores will more than satisfy.

With All Asia Tours’ custom Thai travel, you can enjoy as many of the country’s premier beaches and seaside resorts as you choose. With so many beautiful seaside destinations, let AAT help you discover which ones are right for you. Koh Samui continues to be a popular tourist destination; here, you’ll find a bounty of luxury experiences including top-tier beach resorts, wellness centers with excellent yoga and spa facilities, world-class cuisine certain to tempt your taste buds, and some of the most beautiful natural scenery found anywhere in the world. From luminous aquamarine waters and powdery alabaster sands to dense clusters of bright green palm trees, you’ll be swept away by Koh Samui’s beautiful natural wonders and serene atmosphere.

Phuket, Thailand -- the country’s largest island -- is another popular beach destination and offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery you’ll find anywhere. Like Krabi, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear seas, gorgeous white-sand beaches, and stunningly vast skies. Phuket is also known for its dramatically lofty limestone islands covered in thick blankets of jade and emerald green foliage. If you’re looking for Thailand beach luxury, look no further. Phuket offers a bounty of 5-star resorts, deluxe amenities, and outstanding Southern Thai cuisine known for its fresh seafood and spicy flavors. Snorkelers and divers will also love exploring the region’s diverse marine life. If you’re lucky, you may spot a regal manta ray, turtles, and a wide variety of colorful fish.

Krabi, Thailand is another relaxing and utterly beautiful beach destination in the south. You’ll love this tropical paradise, teeming with rugged karst islands that shoot skyward from the turquoise sea, as well as sparkling pure white-sand beaches. While Krabi’s scenery is its major attraction, in Krabi Town, you’ll also find thriving nightlife scenes, chic restaurants and bars, and a wide array of stunning shrines and temples. Krabi also offers plenty of opportunities to surround yourself in pristine nature, and from here, it’s easy to hop into a boat and escape to Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands. In this region, you can enjoy countless opportunities to try snorkeling and diving, boat trips to nearby islets, and simply sunning yourself in a true seaside paradise.

A Thailand beach vacation offers endless possibilities -- awe-inspiring scenery, rich and colorful sunsets, fantastic food, heart-pumping water sports, and a welcome chance to slow down from modern life’s hectic pace. With All Asia Tours, you’ll always enjoy insider access to Thailand’s best beach destinations -- simply select those that appeal most to you.

In recent years, much of the travel industry has become increasingly aware of ecotourism: sustainable tourism practices that ensure traditional culture, natural environments, and animals are supported, as well as empower local communities. In Thailand, Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist destination, travel experts and organizations continue spearheading new ways for visitors to minimize their footprint while enjoying the incredible beauty of the ‘Land of 1,000 Smiles.’ Let All Asia Tours support you in their eco-friendly Thailand trip, where you can engage in a variety of activities that follow your conscience.

Chiang Mai is home to Elephant Nature Park, an ethical elephant sanctuary that opened in the 1990s. The main missions of this rescue and rehabilitation center are to help elephants (as well as other animals like buffalo, dogs, and cats) enjoy living in a safe and nurturing natural environment. The organization also works to ensure that the surrounding scenery, including nearby rainforests, remain well-preserved. In fact, Chiang Mai’s Elephant Nature Park has received quite a few honors and recognition for its efforts – even from well-known institutions such as the Smithsonian and National Geographic.

Elephant Nature Park also works to educate visitors about its eco-tourism mission. Tragically in Southeast Asia today, there are a number of organizations that exploit animals, for example, those that let tourists ride elephants and ultimately cause damage to the elephant’s fragile spines. At the park, you’ll have the chance to learn more about the ethical treatment of animals, the endangered status of Asian elephants, as well as the park’s mission. You’ll even have the chance to get involved and help care for the elephants by feeding, bathing, and playing with them. Chiang Mai’s Elephant Nature Park has enjoyed much success in recent years, inspiring similar parks to open in Phuket and Koh Samui.

For eco-minded travelers, Thailand offers unique agrotourism opportunities. Agriculture has and continues to be an important part of Thai life and local economies, and today, many local projects have opened their doors to tourists. If you’re interested in learning more about organic farming and helping out local communities, let AAT take you on a countryside adventure to an organic rice farm. You’ll have the chance to wear traditional farming clothes and assist with transplanting and harvesting rice. Depending on the season, you may even get to help plow the field with a water buffalo!

Thailand today is also home to a wide variety of nature parks, reserves, and serene green spaces -- perfect places for spotting local wildlife and immersing yourself in stunning scenery. Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai offers a beautiful landscape of rugged mountains, emerald tropical forests, and pristine waterfalls. If you’re looking to explore nature along the coast, speak with an AAT representative today about our Thailand custom travel options and Ang Thong National Marine Park, located near Koh Samui. In this region, the beaches and reefs are protected and provide a haven for plenty of marine life including otters and dolphins.

From north to south and everywhere in between, Thailand is home to countless Buddhist temples. These buildings are beautiful to behold, and each wat (temple) carries its own rich history, architecture, and art. Let All Asia Tours take you on a spiritual journey to Thailand’s cherished religious landmarks. Whether or not you’re Buddhist, you’ll be inspired -- and feel your spirit filled by - - each of these iconic sites.

Begin in the thriving capital city of Bangkok, Thailand. At the Royal Palace, you can discover two major Theravada Buddhist temples -- Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha). As their names suggest, each wat is home to a celebrated Buddha image. Wat Phra Kaew’s Emerald Buddha is highly sacred; only the current Thai king is allowed to touch this precious jade statue. Wat Pho’s gilded Reclining Buddha, which measures approximately 151 feet long and 50 feet tall (46 x 15 m), truly is a sight to behold. This statue depicts the Buddha at the moment of his death -- as he stretched out underneath the Bodhi tree and passed into Nirvana.

Bangkok’s Wat Arun, located on the west bank of the picturesque Chao Phraya River, is another must-see. Also known as ‘Temple of Dawn,’ Wat Arun is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and boasts a unique multi-spire design. Centuries ago, this temple became the new capital center of the Thonburi kingdom. Today, when you tour stunning Wat Arun, you’ll not only be captivated by its picturesque riverside setting (especially when the city is lit by a brilliant palette of colors at night) but also by the 100+ golden Buddha images. And if you have time, head north to Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai Historical Park -- an important Buddhist meditation site where you can even partake in an English-speaking mediation class.

Journey to Thailand’s north, and you’ll find an array of fascinating Buddhist monuments in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Chiang Rai’s Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) is a recent project by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. White Temple construction began in the late 1990s, but the exterior’s ornate surface decoration and pure-white color seem like architectural marvels from centuries ago. Wat Rong Khun’s design and artwork are highly symbolic, and sections such as ‘The Cycle of Rebirth’ and the ‘Gate of Heaven’ call for visitors to give up fleeting earthly concerns and focus on attaining enlightenment.

In Chiang Mai, you’ll find stunning Northern Thai-style temples such as Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Today, the ruins of Wat Chedi Luang (Temple of the Big Stupa) still stand proudly, even though the top of the chedi (spire) was destroyed centuries ago. You’ll marvel at the atmospheric beauty of this site, once home to Wat Phra Kaew’s famous Emerald Buddha image. To reach Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, nestled in the mountainside, you can take 300 steps up a staircase flanked with colorful naga (serpent) sculptures.