Top 10 Cities For History-Buffs In Thailand

OT Staff

Thailand

Thailand has a rich history and vibrant culture that attracts visitors with its ancient temples, bustling markets, and majestic palaces. From the busy streets of Bangkok to the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, Thailand's diverse heritage offers a captivating journey through time and tradition.

Tourists ride elephant around the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya, Thailand | Shutterstock

Bangkok

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a culturally and historically rich city. The Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and the ancient city of Ayutthaya are some of the must-visit places in and around the city that offer a glimpse into the city's rich past.

Details of Wat Phra Kaew, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok, Thailand | Shutterstock

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam for 400 years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city has magnificent temple ruins, ancient palaces, and Buddha statues, including Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet.

Old ruins and Buddha statue with blue sky at Wat Prasat Nakhon Luang | Shutterstock

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a historic city in Northern Thailand with ancient walls, moats, and numerous cultural sites. Notable attractions include Doi Suthep, a mountain temple with panoramic views, and Wat Chedi Luang, a massive pagoda dating back to the 14th-century.

The royal flora, Ho Kum Loung in Ratchaphruek Park Chiang Mai, Thailand | Shutterstock

Sukhothai

Sukhothai, the first capital of Siam in the 13th-14th centuries, has a Historical Park with well-preserved ruins of temples and ancient monuments, including the largest temple Wat Mahathat and Wat Si Chum, famous for its towering Buddha statue.

Wat Phiphat Mongkhon blue temple in Sukhothai, Thailand | Shutterstock

Lopburi

Lopburi is famous for its ancient Khmer ruins and monkeys. The city was important in the Khmer Empire and the Ayutthaya Kingdom. You can visit Phra Prang Sam Yot, a Khmer temple with monkeys, and Phra Narai Ratchaniwet, a former royal palace with Thai-European architecture.

Khmer temple with monkeys | Shutterstock

Phetchaburi

Phetchaburi has historical sites dating back to the Dvaravati and Khmer periods. Highlights include Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park and Wat Mahathat Worawihan featuring a large Buddha statue and ancient murals.

Khao Long Cave (Tham Khao Luang), Phetchaburi | Shutterstock

Nakhon Si Thammarat

Nakhon Si Thammarat is the centre of Theravada Buddhism. Its ancient temples, including Wat Phra Mahathat, house exquisite architecture and relics. The Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum displays artefacts from the Srivijaya Empire era.

Wat Phra Mahathat, Nakhon Si Thammarat | Shutterstock

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is famous for the Death Railway, which was constructed during WWII. Visitors can explore war museums, cemeteries, and memorials, including the Bridge over the River Kwai, built by Allied prisoners.

The Death Railway of Kanchanaburi | Shutterstock

Phitsanulok

Phitsanulok is well-known for its religious and historical significance in Thai history. Its main attractions include Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat (Phra Buddha Chinnarat), Sgt. Maj. Thawee Folk Museum, and Chan Palace Museum.

The Temple of the Great Jewelled Reliquary | Shutterstock

Phrae

Phrae is a pivotal attraction for history buffs with its well-preserved, traditional wooden houses and historic temples. Its main attractions include the Khum Chao Luang Museum, Wat Phra That Cho Hae, and Ban Wongburi.

Wat Phra That Cho Hae, Phrae | Shutterstock

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