Central Thailand is a region of extraordinary variety, from royal capitals and dramatic national parks to war memorials and lively temple towns.
The journey often begins in Bangkok, Thailand’s high-energy capital, where visitors are drawn to a whirlwind of street food, golden temples and vibrant city life. To the north lies Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site with crumbling ruins and elegant chedis. Westwards, Kanchanaburi offers a different pace, blending history and natural splendour. Here, you can reflect at poignant World War II sites like the Hellfire Pass and explore jungle-clad waterfalls in Erawan National Park. East of the capital, Khao Yai National Park offers more opportunities for wildlife spotting and scenic hikes. It’s Thailand’s oldest national park and one of the best places in the country to immerse yourself in forested trails, tropical birds and elephant habitats.
Further exploration brings more surprises. Lopburi, often referred to as Thailand’s ‘Monkey City’, is known for the playful macaques that roam its streets and temple grounds. The town also plays host to vibrant local festivals during certain times of the year. Heading north, Phitsanulok is home to some of Thailand’s most cherished temples, as well as striking natural scenery. Not far away is Sukhothai, the spiritual and architectural heart of early Thailand. While the modern town is relatively quiet, nearby Old Sukhothai is where the magic lies. Spread across a peaceful landscape of ponds and rice paddies, the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park features over 190 temples, stupas and ancient ruins. These cultural and natural treasures make Central Thailand a rich region to include on a tailor-made itinerary. Speak to our Thailand specialists for ideas on how to make the most of this diverse and rewarding part of the country.
