Best Places to Visit in Thailand for Backpackers: An Ultimate Travel Guide

Thailand offers an incredible mix of vibrant cities, ancient temples, stunning beaches, and lush jungles — making it one of the best places to visit in Asia for backpackers.

In 2018, my husband and I spent 7 weeks backpacking across the country, exploring everything from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene islands off the coasts. We immersed ourselves in the culture, tasted incredible food, and made unforgettable memories, all while keeping our expenses low. In fact, we spent less than $1500 Canadian (around 1110 USD or 40,005 THB) each for the entire trip.

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View over Bangkok from Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan.

Thailand has something for every traveller, whether you’re new to the country or a seasoned explorer. From the northern mountains to the southern beaches and islands, we saw it all without breaking the bank. If you’re planning your own adventure, keep reading for my top 10 recommendations on the best places to visit in Thailand for backpackers — these spots are definitely worth the journey!

Gavin & I in Koh Lanta with our backpacks and day-use side-bags; packed light for a 7-week trip!

1. Bangkok – The City That Never Sleeps

Thailand’s buzzing capital is a whirlwind of energy, where modern skyscrapers meet historic temples. Visit the Grand Palace, marvel at Wat Arun at sunset, and shop at Chatuchak Market. At night, explore Khao San Road for a wild backpacker experience or sip juice along the Chao Phraya River and explore the canals in the Venice of the East. You might even see monitor lizards!

Bangkok’s bustling Chinatown off Yaowarat Road where we based our stay is a fantastic neighbourhood.

On the quest for durian we found this vendor on Yaowarat Lu!

Street art in Bangkok: King Bhumibol Adulyadej mural at the Bangkok Arts and Culture Centre.

Legendary chef Jay Fai making her crab omelette. She was the first street food stall in Bangkok to garner a Michelin star in 2018.

Rent a swan-shaped paddleboat and explore Lumphini Park for a serene escape.

Must-try Thipsami next door to Jay Fai: order their signature pad thai inside an omelette!

Rip along the Chao Phraya River and the canals of Bangkok in a traditional long-tail boat!

2. Chiang Mai – The Cultural Heart

Surrounded by mountains, Chiang Mai is a haven for culture lovers. Visit the famous Doi Suthep Temple for panoramic city views, eat at hole-in-the-wall street-food locations in the Old City, or wander through the Sunday Night Market. If you visit in November, don’t miss the Yi Peng Lantern Festival—a magical experience.

Chiang Mai by night is alive: street-food, night markets, tuk tuks, temples and Thai massage.

Visit a legitimate elephant sanctuary and take mud baths with the elephants and try affordable Thai massage or join a Thai massage teacher training course.

Took a 3-day Thai massage course at Jera Traditional Thai Massage: highly recommend!

Couchsurfers took us to this view over Chiang Mai on the road up to Wat Doi Suthep.

Feeding a baby elephant at the Elephant Retirement Sanctuary.

Durian sold out of the back of car at night in Chiang Mai – can’t beat this accessibility!

Wat Buppharam, a Buddhist temple founded in 1497.

3. Pai – The Laid-Back Mountain Escape

Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Pai is a backpacker’s paradise with hot springs, waterfalls, and endless rice fields. Eat local congee and noodles near the China border and take a cooking class to satisfy your foodie cravings. Rent a scooter and explore Pai Canyon, soak in the Sai Ngam hot springs, and catch the sunset at the Yun Lai Viewpoint.

Local congee from a breakfast street-food stall.

Final cooking class spread: Pad Thai, Pad Kha Prao, Tom Kha Gai, Thai green and red curries.

Wat Phra That Mae Yen, the “White Buddha.”

Gavin and I soaking in Tha Pai Hot Spring.

Views of Northern Thailand from the White Buddha.

4. Khao Sok National Park – Jungle Paradise

Khao Sok is home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Stay in a floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake, kayak through limestone karsts, swim through inland caves, and go on a night safari to spot wildlife. This was one of my favourite experiences in Thailand—completely immersed in nature.

Our overwater bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake.

The *best* views at Khao Sok National Park.

5. Railay Beach – A Rock Climber’s Dream

Accessible only by boat, Railay Beach in Krabi is famous for its limestone cliffs and stunning turquoise waters. Try rock climbing, take a long-tail boat to Phra Nang Cave Beach, and enjoy a sunset from the viewpoint after a short but steep hike. This was the undoubtedly the most picturesque beach on our trip.

Perfect weather at gorgeous Railay Beach.

6. Koh Phi Phi – Island Vibes and Nightlife

Made famous by The Beach movie, the Phi Phi islands are known for turquoise waters, snorkeling spots, and nightlife. On the main island, Koh Phi Phi Don, hike to Phi Phi viewpoints for breathtaking views and experience legendary beach parties. We witnessed the best fire-spinners we have ever seen on Koh Phi Phi!

To see where The Beach was filmed, take a boat trip to Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh.

Gorgeous view over Phi Phi as you climb up to 3 consecutive viewpoints.

🌟 Hot travel tip: bring earplugs as the party goes all night long and you will be able to hear the music no matter where your guesthouse is located on the island! 😅

View from our treehouse guesthouse on Phi Phi.

7. Koh Lanta – The Underrated Island

If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Koh Phi Phi, head to Koh Lanta. This island offers stunning beaches, excellent diving, and a laid-back vibe. Rent a scooter and visit Mu Koh Lanta National Park, explore the Old Town where well-preserved wooden houses on stilts reflect Chinese trade influences, and relax on Long Beach.

Our Hello Kitty scooter rental in Koh Lanta.

A grocery store coconut milk plus durian drink find!

8. Koh Muk – Hidden Gem of the Andaman Sea

One of Thailand’s best-kept secrets, Koh Muk is home to the famous Emerald Cave, where you swim through a dark tunnel to discover a hidden lagoon. The island is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy unspoiled nature.

The highlight of our stay here was definitely meeting Yai, who drove us around the island for free in his motorcycle taxi sidecar! He owns the Cashew Nut Bungalows which is a great place to stay if you want to see real cashews growing in the wild!

Cashews nuts growing on the cashew fruit.

🌟 Top travel tip: Bring mosquito repellant! This is one of the 2 places in the world (the other being Waskesiu, Saskatchewan Canada!) where I have received the most mosquito bites. Within mere minutes my legs were entirely covered!

9. Koh Pha Ngan – Beyond the Full Moon Party

While Koh Pha Ngan is famous for its Full Moon Party, the island has so much more to offer, especially if you’re like me and rarely ever drink alcohol! Visit the tranquil beaches of the north, take a yoga class in Sri Thanu, and hike to Domesila Viewpoint for panoramic views of the island.

The scenic coastline around The Sanctuary reminded me of the computer game Riven.

We stayed in a treehouse at The Sanctuary Thailand for a night and then at a second (cheaper) treehouse at Why Nam beach where we still returned to The Sanctuary daily to dine at their fantastic vegetarian restaurant. The Ayurvedic herbal sauna and yoga classes at The Sanctuary were phenomenal and the vegan passionfruit cake was delicious!

For backpackers accustomed to rustic accommodation this spot is truly a paradise away from it all and a wonderful place to rest and recharge.

Mural at Why Nam beach adds a burst of creativity.

10. Koh Tao & Nang Yuan – Snorkeling and Diving Heaven

Koh Tao is Thailand’s top destination for diving and snorkeling, with affordable PADI certification courses. Swim with reef sharks, explore Shark Bay, and take a short boat ride to Koh Nang Yuan for the iconic viewpoint overlooking the sandbar.

Me feeling tanned and joyful at Freedom Beach, Ko Tao.

Long tail boats anchored by Koh Nang Yuan island.

Snorkelling at the Japanese Garden was an absolute delight as we saw many different kinds of tropical fish including parrot and puffer fish.

Me at the top of Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint!

Thailand Backpacker Windup

Backpacking across Thailand for seven weeks was an unforgettable experience, and these destinations showcase the best of what the country has to offer. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Thailand has something for everyone.

Glorious Railay Beach, showcasing stunning limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

How’s your Thailand backpacking adventure coming along? Whether you’re reveling in the vibrant city of Bangkok or seeking out the most tranquil islands and scenic beaches, be sure to save this guide to discover the best places to visit in Thailand for backpackers.