Whether you rent or own a house or condo in Bangkok or are just visiting, you may find yourself wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of city-life from time to time. Luckily, Thailand is home to countless cities, islands, and towns, and many are just a short flight, train, bus, or ferry ride from downtown Bangkok! If you’re thinking of taking a trip away from the city, check out these four awesome weekend getaways from Bangkok!
Ko Samet
Just 200 kilometers away from Bangkok rests the beautiful island of Ko Samet. A three hour drive followed by a quick, twenty-minute ferry trip will land you on pristine white beaches surrounded by sparkling turquoise water. This tranquil escape is a popular weekend trip for Bangkok residents because it offers the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of city life!
Soak up the sun on one of the island’s beaches. Take a dip in the warm water. Or, opt for something a bit more exciting by renting a jet ski or participating in some of the other water sports available on the island. At the end of the day, you can partake in some of Ko Samet’s exotic nightlife or dine at one of the delicious restaurants.
Koh Chang
Koh Chang is the second largest island in Thailand, second only to Phuket. But don’t let the large size fool you. This paradise still offers a laid-back, relaxing weekend getaway that’s just a one hour flight or a five hour bus ride from Bangkok. Only around 30 percent of this island is developed. The rest is filled with pristine beaches, undisturbed rainforests, towering cliffs with gorgeous waterfalls, and plenty of wildlife.
Despite the tourist-centered developed section of Koh Chang, this island is the perfect escape for any nature lover. The waters surrounding the island are known for their beautiful reefs, perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving. If you prefer to enjoy the water from above, you can rent kayaks, sailboats, and more from many different spots on the island. Inland, elephant rides are available, as are guided excursions to some of the island’s most popular locations, including Klong Plu waterfall.
Pattaya
If your idea of the perfect weekend getaway is something a bit more fast-paced than an island escape, Pattaya is the place for you. This bustling resort area on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand is about 160 kilometers from Bangkok.
Here you’ll find luxurious resorts, exotic nightlife, and even a few ancient temples. Every corner of Pattaya seems to have a shopping center, including several mega-centers. There are plenty of beaches in Pattaya as well, but expect crowds if you plan to sunbathe or go for a swim, especially during busier times of the year.
Khao Yai National Park
You won’t find a getaway that is quite so different from the city of Bangkok as this oasis. A four to four-and-a-half hour ride via public transportation, or a two hour private ride from Bangkok will land you in Thailand’s first national park, Khao Yai National Park. The park is home to elephants, bears, gaurs, barking deer, otters, gibbons, macaques, and many species of birds and reptiles.
Many of the trails in the park require a guide to explore, though there is a short circular trail that starts next to the Visitor’s Center that you can walk on your own. On a private or group tour, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with these incredible wild animals. Nature enthusiasts will love seeing them in their natural habitat. Photographers will enjoy snapping some incredible photos to share with friends and family back home. Visitors of all ages will enjoy a relaxing day away from the city, soaking in nature in this natural paradise.
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