Thailand is full of colour and diversity. That much is obvious at first glance, and has inspired tons of film, music, and even apps.

With movies like the Hangover 2 popularising the kind of debauchery the capital is known for, there is much more to Bangkok, and indeed the country as a whole.

From the offshore islands of Koh Mah and Koh Kood, to the southern peninsula destinations like Trang, Koh Phayam, Khao Sok national park and Koh Kraden (Ngai). There is so much more than you will find in a two-page brochure on the country.

Bangkok is an amazing city with so much to offer—no one is debating that. But what if you could also be on the cutting edge of exploring lesser-known, less-populated areas rich in culture and natural beauty?

This kind of off-the-beaten-path tourism not only inspires young travelers to leave their home countries and discover places like Thailand, but also breathes life into countless creative endeavors across various forms of media.

And timing your trip just right can make a big difference—not just in experience, but in cost. Certain months offer a quieter, more affordable way to see the country, perfect for those traveling on a budget to Thailand.

Let’s turn our attention to the kind of travel that stirs the soul and has long sparked creativity in artists, writers, and dreamers worldwide.

Koh Mak

Well off the radar of major guidebooks, this island is part of the Koh Chang archipelago—a chain so small you might need a magnifying glass to spot it on the map.

Located in the eastern Gulf of Thailand, it offers tropical sunsets, fishing boats, and palm trees straight out of a movie. Escape the crowds and discover the unspoiled beaches of Koh Mak.

Koh Kood

While it may not have the fame of Koh Samui’s beaches or Ko Phi Phi Leh, those places are more frequented thanks to the attention brought by film and media.

Koh Kood, on the other hand, remains a relatively uncommon getaway—even with the recent arrival of a high-speed ferry and a five-star resort. It’s the kind of place that still evokes images of untouched tropical beauty.

So why Koh Kood? For the diving at Koh Rang National Park, the vibrant coral reefs, and the clear, azure waters—of course.

Khao Yai National Park

For those near Bangkok, this UNESCO-protected site has forest and mountains as far as you can see. The star of the show is Haew Suat, one of the highest national waterfalls, as depicted in the Leonardo DiCaprio film, The Beach. But the park offers much more than cinematic scenery—it’s home to elephants, gibbons, hornbills, and over 300 species of birds.

Visitors can explore jungle trails, watch wildlife at salt licks, or take night safaris for a completely different perspective. It’s one of the few places in Thailand where you can truly immerse yourself in nature without venturing too far from the city.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Located just outside of Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon is home to the highest peak in Thailand and a cool mountain climate that offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.

Nicknamed “The Roof of Thailand,” the park features lush cloud forests, terraced rice fields, and cascading waterfalls like Wachirathan and Siriphum.

Cultural gems include hill tribe villages and the striking King and Queen Pagodas, perched with panoramic views over the valleys below. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, Doi Inthanon is a must for hikers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience northern Thailand at its most majestic.