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6 Hidden Gems in Thailand You Must Visit

Sunrise in Khao Sok National Park, one of the hidden gems in Thailand. (photo: Robin Noguier)

If you’ve been to Thailand regularly, you may think you’ve seen all it offers. But the Land of Smiles hides a treasure trove of unique places for those who go off the beaten path. 

When we say hidden, we mean places that may be challenging to get to without a guide. So, be prepared to spend a little more on transport, depending on where you’re based.

Sunrise in Khao Sok National Park, one of the hidden gems in Thailand. (photo: Robin Noguier)
Khao Sok National Park (photo: Robin Noguier)

But with the cost of living in Thailand being much lower than in most Western countries, these hidden gems shouldn’t be out of reach even for most broke backpackers.

If you’re looking for something extraordinary beyond crowd-laden Bangkok, these are the best places in Thailand to experience tropical paradise in solitude. 

Hidden Gems in Thailand

1. Khao Sok / Cheow Larn Lake 

Cheow Larn is a 103 mile² (165 km²) artificial lake tucked deep in the thickets of the Khao Sok rainforest.

This lake was formed in 1987 and is a truly magical place where deep blue waters meet a scenery of lush rainforest and over a hundred peaks of towering limestone cliffs. 

Over thirty years since its creation, Cheow Larn lake remains relatively untouched.

Besides swimming, canoeing, and enjoying boat rides, this is an excellent place to have close and personal encounters with clouded leopards, tigers, wild elephants, and Malayan sun bears. 

Another unique feature of Cheow Larn lake is its Instagram-worthy Floating Bungalows that make up for a truly authentic Thai experience. 

Yanui Beach, a few minutes south of Nui Beach on Phuket in Thailand (photo: Vitaly Sacred)
Yanui Beach, a few minutes south of Nui Beach (photo: Vitaly Sacred)

2. Nui Beach

Phuket, the southern province of Thailand, is home to some of the best beach destinations in the country.

If you want to avoid the large crowds that characterize Patong and Karon, Nui Beach is a worthy consideration. 

Nui Beach is not a secret in the true sense of the word. But most people find it a challenge to get to due to its location. There was an entrance fee of up to 100 baht some years back.

While the fee has been lifted, the transfer service down the treacherous road and parking fee (if you choose to drive yourself) still limits most would-be visitors.

But this is a small price if you don’t want other beachgoers and vendors bothering you. 

Nui Beach is between Kata Viewpoint and Nai Harn Beach on Phuket’s southwest coast. It’s a good place for swimming, snorkeling, and snapping photos for social media.

You’ll also find a restaurant and a mix…

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