Thailand is not only known for popular dishes like Pad Thai and Thai Green Curry, but also for its historic sites that are located in the beautiful coastal areas. These sites provide a glimpse into the country’s culture, diverse ethnicity, and history. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or not, these remarkable heritage sites in Thailand will surely amaze you with their fascinating stories. So why settle for flipping through magazine pages or viewing them online when you can witness and experience them in person?
Take a step back and start scrolling because we guarantee that a visit to these iconic places will make your trip to Thailand truly special!
5 Renowned World Heritage Sites in Thailand
These heritage sites in Thailand offer a sneak peek into Thai culture and history, and should not be missed on your next trip. Here’s why!
1. Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries
Essential Read: 10 Unusual National Parks In Thailand For An Uncommon Encounter With The Wild
Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary and Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries are two connected protected areas that UNESCO declared as World Heritage Sites in Thailand in 1991. These places cover a vast expanse of 622,200 hectares and are home to various species such as water buffalo, black panthers, rhinoceroses, wild cows, and indigenous communities. While there are limited tourist attractions to explore, you can obtain permission from the Director of the Wildlife Conservation Office in Bangkok to venture deeper into the wilderness or even stay overnight.
Operating Hours: Not Applicable Entry Fee: 200 THB or INR 420 for Adults; 100 THB or INR 210 for children Location: Uthai Thani City, Thailand
2. Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex
Spanning over 615,500 hectares of land, it offers refuge to over 800 species, including Asian elephants and Vogel’s pit viper. The Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex consists of five adjacent protected areas – Ta Phraya National Park, Thap Lan National Park, Pang Sida National Park, Khao Yai National Park, and Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary. If you haven’t had your fill of wildlife encounters in your local area, these national parks and wildlife sanctuary are the ideal destinations, though one at a time!
Operating Hours: Not ApplicableAdmission Fee: 400 THB per person or INR 855 approximately; an additional 20 THB or INR 43 approximately for motorcycles or 50 THB or INR 107 approximately for cars.Location: Saraburi, Thailand
3. Sukhothai and Connected Historical Towns
Tracing back to as early as the 13th and 14th century, during the establishment of the first Thai kingdom, it is believed that the Sukhothai Historical Park, Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park, and Si Satchanalai Historical Park were constructed to preserve the remains of the cities of Sukhothai Kingdom. Encompassing various temples and providing a valuable cultural insight, these parks are a must-visit for explorers who have a penchant for heritage sites.
Operating Hours: 8:30 am to 6:30 pmAdmission Fee: 100 THB or INR 214 per person (additional charge for bicycles)Location:
- Sukhothai National Park: Mueang Sukhothai National Park, Sukhothai Province
- Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park: Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District, Kamphaeng Phet Province
- Si Satchanalai Historical Park: Si Satchanalai District, Sukhothai Province.
4. Historical City of Ayutthaya
Established by King Ramathibodi I in 1351 and later seized by the Burmese in 1569, the city of Ayutthaya holds significant importance in the history of Thailand. One has the opportunity to witness the widely discussed Buddha Head intertwined in the roots at the Wat Mahathat Temple, although there are no definite records explaining its placement.
Operating Hours: Not AvailableEntry Fee: Free, but the main temples inside charge approximately 50 THB or INR 107 per personLocation: Ayutthaya City, Thailand.
5. Ban Chiang Archeological Site
Declared as a World Heritage Site in 1992 by UNESCO, this site is renowned for red painted pottery. The significance of the site lies in its portrayal of evidence for wet-rice agriculture, domestication of cattle and pigs, as well as the utilization and production of metals. If you have an affinity for art, this world heritage site in Thailand is ideal for you to leisurely explore.
Operating Hours: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)Entry Fee: 150 THB or INR 320 per personLocation: Nong Han District, Udon Thani Province, Thailand
Other Thailand Heritage Sites That Can Obtain The UNESCO Status Too
Still seeking more? Well, here are a few additional cultural sites in Thailand that have been proposed for UNESCO’s declaration as World Heritage Sites.
1. Phimai Historical Park
One can definitely appreciate the Khmer architecture carved in the historical park of Phimai. Despite the fact that the Khmer were adherents of Hinduism at that time, the temples located here are Buddhist due to the presence of Buddhist inhabitants. The park also showcases an art gallery exhibiting ancient Buddhist inscriptions, restored architectural pieces, and small sculptures from the bygone era.
Business Hours: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm every dayAdmission Fee: 40 THB or INR 85 per personLocale: Phimai Town, Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand.
2. Kaeng Krachan National Park
Ruddy Kingfisher, flavescent bulbul, and dusk-colored leaf monkey are some of the stunning species found in the national park amongst others. Spreading over a few districts, the borders are adjoining to Burma, catering to its biodiversity and an extensive region of rainforest and Tenasserim Mountain range. If you’re planning to witness this site with nature at its finest, it would take approximately more than 3 hours to cover the main areas within.
Business Hours: 08:30 am to 04:30 pmAdmission Fee: 300 THB or INR 641 for adults; 200 THB or INR 428 for children (additional charges for vehicle and overnight camp)Locale: Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan Provinces, Thailand
3. Phu Phra Bat Historical Park
Not only is this park a must-visit for its appealing prehistoric rock paintings, but also for the immense rock formations with exquisite shrines surrounding them. It is said that these rocks had originated from beneath the sea due to an erosion that occurred 50 million years ago. Undoubtedly, it is one of the finest places to explore in Thailand.
Business Hours: 08:30 am to 04:30 pmAdmission Fee: FreeLocale: Ban Phue, Udon Thani Province, Thailand
4. Chiang Mai
Being one of the biggest cities in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai overlooks the tallest mountains and was also honored the title of ‘Inventive City’ by UNESCO in 2017. Make sure to explore its popular celebrations such as Loi Krathong, Songkran, Chiang Mai Flower Festival, and the Inthakin celebration which include enjoyable activities.
Area: 700 km north of Bangkok, Thailand
5. Wat Phra That Phanom
This temple holds a great significance for Buddhists as it is believed to have been constructed on the spot where Buddha’s breast bone was discovered. The unique aspect lies in the 57 meters high Laotian style Chedi which was renovated by the department of Fine Arts in 1941. The 110 kilos of gold at the top of this Chedi enhance the beauty of the intricately carved architectural structures of the temple.
Operating Hours: 06:00 am to 08:00 pmAdmission Fee: FreeLocation: Chayankun Road, That Phanom Subdistrict, That Phanom,Thailand
Additional Read: 12 Suggestions For Backpacking In Thailand: A List Of Do’s & Don’ts
So, what are you contemplating? Pack your bags for an incredible excursion to Thailand with Fred and Fuzzys and don’t worry about a plan because we’ve got you covered!
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