Thailand Unveils Best Kept Travel Secrets Like Koh Samet, Sukhothai, Koh Kood, Mae Sot, Nong Khai, Phitsanulok, Korat, Lampang, Phayao And Mae Sai Offering Peaceful Retreats And Immersive Cultural Journeys

Published on May 17, 2025

Thailand offers travelers a treasure trove of hidden destinations beyond the well-known cities, inviting exploration of ten remarkable places—including Koh Samet, Sukhothai, Koh Kood, Mae Sot, Nong Khai, Phitsanulok, Korat, Lampang, Phayao, and Mae Sai—that showcase the country’s authentic culture, serene landscapes, and rich history. These underrated gems provide peaceful escapes and immersive experiences for those seeking to discover the true heart of Thailand away from the usual tourist crowds.

Thailand is often synonymous with bustling cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, but the country offers so much more for those willing to step off the beaten path. Beyond the well-trodden tourist trails lie hidden gems—towns and destinations brimming with old-school charm, peaceful landscapes, and unique flavors that you won’t find in typical travel apps. These off-the-beaten-path spots cater to travelers who seek calm over crowds and authenticity over the usual photo ops.

For those who prefer exploring tranquil surroundings and experiencing a deeper, more serene side of Thailand, there are countless undiscovered gems that offer breathtaking beauty and a real connection to local life. Whether it’s lakeside walks, mountain sunrises, or discovering fascinating local traditions, these ten underrated destinations provide a quieter, yet equally enchanting, alternative to the well-known hotspots of Thailand.

Koh Samet – A Quiet Beach Escape

Koh Samet, located just a few hours from Bangkok, offers a refreshing alternative to the more crowded islands. This small island is part of a national park and boasts powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters. Unlike its more famous counterparts, Koh Samet retains a calm, laid-back vibe, making it an ideal getaway for those who want to avoid the throngs of tourists.

Attractions & Vibe
Spend your days lounging on the quiet beaches of Ao Wai and Ao Prao, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or hiking through the island’s modest jungle trails. The evenings here are equally enchanting, with beachside BBQs under the stars and fire-dancing shows adding to the island’s charm.

Local Food & Customs
Beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood such as prawns, squid, and snapper, often paired with a spicy seafood papaya salad. A meal wouldn’t be complete without mango sticky rice, a local sweet treat. Although Koh Samet has a laid-back vibe, it’s also a national park, so visitors are encouraged to respect the environment.

Sukhothai – A Journey Back in Time

Sukhothai, the first capital of Siam, is a historic treasure that remains relatively quiet compared to other historical sites in Thailand. It offers an idyllic setting for history buffs and romantics alike, with its ancient temples and serene atmosphere.

Attractions & Vibe
The Sukhothai Historical Park is home to stone Buddha statues, crumbling chedis, and lotus-filled ponds. Renting a bicycle to explore the park allows visitors to enjoy the ruins at their own pace, far from the usual crowds. Watching the sunset over these majestic ruins is an unforgettable experience.

Local Food & Customs
Sukhothai is famous for its noodles, which come in a sweet-spicy pork broth. The city also celebrates Loi Krathong, where the park is illuminated with candlelit floats. Respectful behavior is expected at the temples, even if they are in ruins.

Koh Kood – The Ultimate Escape

Koh Kood, located near the Cambodian border, is often described as what Phuket was like decades ago—untouched by mass tourism and full of natural beauty. This quiet island features pristine beaches, waterfalls, and traditional fishing villages.

Attractions & Vibe
Koh Kood offers quiet beaches like Ao Tapao, along with scenic hikes through emerald jungles to discover hidden waterfalls like Klong Chao. The island’s tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Local Food & Customs
Seafood is a highlight here, with dishes like tamarind-glazed prawns and yellow crab curry on offer. Many guesthouses also invite visitors to join in community meals or local fishing trips, creating a deeper connection to the island’s culture.

Mae Sot – A Border Town with a Cultural Blend

Located at the border between Thailand and Myanmar, Mae Sot is a unique town that offers a blend of Burmese, Thai, and ethnic Karen cultures. It’s a place where local markets are bustling with ethnic goods, and the landscape is dotted with temples and natural hot springs.

Attractions & Vibe
The Mae Sot border market is a lively spot where you can find everything from gemstones to textiles. You can also cross the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge into Myanmar for a glimpse of another country’s culture. The town offers a fusion of Buddhist, Muslim, and Christian influences, making it culturally rich and diverse.

Local Food & Customs
Burmese tea and Mohinga soup, a traditional fish broth with rice noodles, are popular local dishes. The multicultural influences make the food scene here a fascinating mix of flavors, with options like samosas, poori, and rich Burmese curries.

Nong Khai – The Mekong River and Spiritual Mysteries

Nong Khai is a laid-back town in the northeast of Thailand, situated along the Mekong River and just across from Laos. This tranquil town has a unique charm, with river views, art, and mystery all around.

Attractions & Vibe
Nong Khai is home to Sala Kaew Ku, an eccentric sculpture park that features oversized concrete statues of deities and mythical creatures. The Naga Fireballs, mysterious glowing orbs that appear in the river during the Naga Fireball Festival, are another fascinating local phenomenon.

Local Food & Customs
Isaan cuisine takes center stage here, with dishes like Naem Nueng, grilled Mekong fish, and sticky rice served alongside spicy chili dips. The locals are known for their warm hospitality, and you’ll often find Naga-inspired art and symbols throughout the town.

Phitsanulok – History and Local Flavors

Phitsanulok, known for its rich history and vibrant street food culture, is a riverside city that often gets overshadowed by bigger destinations like Chiang Mai. However, it offers a deep dive into local culture and history.

Attractions & Vibe
Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, home to the revered Phra Buddha Chinnarat, is one of the city’s most important landmarks. Phitsanulok’s night market is a great place to experience local food and culture, where street vendors offer dishes like grilled quail and spicy noodles.

Local Food & Customs
Street food is a highlight, with local specialties like Kuay Tiew Phitsanulok and grilled quail. The city also celebrates events like the Phra Buddha Chinnarat Fair, where locals gather to honor their heritage.

Nakhon Ratchasima – A Mix of Modern and Ancient

Nakhon Ratchasima, or Korat, is a city that blends modern conveniences with ancient traditions. It is often overlooked by tourists but offers plenty of history, culture, and fantastic local food.

Attractions & Vibe
Visit Phimai Historical Park to explore Khmer-era ruins or enjoy nature at Khao Yai National Park, one of Thailand’s oldest and most beautiful parks. The city’s night markets are lively and offer a mix of food, crafts, and local culture.

Local Food & Customs
Isaan food reigns supreme here, with dishes like Pad Mee Korat (spicy stir-fried rice noodles) and grilled chicken served with sticky rice. The city also has a proud tradition, celebrated during festivals like the Ya Mo Festival.

Lampang – Northern Thailand’s Hidden Gem

Lampang, often overshadowed by Chiang Mai, is a quiet town with a relaxed atmosphere, historical landmarks, and unique horse-drawn carriages still used as a mode of transport.

Attractions & Vibe
Explore Lampang’s old town on a horse-drawn carriage, passing teakwood mansions and historical temples like Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao. The Ban Sao Nak Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history, while the weekend market brings vibrant local life to the streets.

Local Food & Customs
Lampang’s food scene includes northern Thai dishes like Sai Ua (herb sausage) and Khao Soi (curry noodles). Locals also enjoy unique snacks like fried rice cakes glazed with watermelon syrup.

Phayao – A Tranquil Lakefront Haven

Located between Chiang Rai and Nan, Phayao is an underrated town offering a peaceful lakeside retreat. With stunning views of Phayao Lake and surrounding mountains, this town offers a calm vibe away from the crowds.

Attractions & Vibe
Phayao Lake is perfect for morning jogs or leisurely strolls, and the floating Wat Tilok Aram temple offers a serene experience. The nearby Phu Langka Forest Park offers breathtaking sunrise views over misty peaks.

Local Food & Customs
Freshwater fish dishes like Tom Pla Kwan Phayao and Khao Soi are popular, along with locally grown citrus fruits. The town celebrates Loy Krathong with beautiful floating offerings on the lake.

Mae Sai – A Cultural Crossroads

At the northernmost point of Thailand, Mae Sai is a vibrant border town where Thai, Burmese, and Yunnanese influences merge. It’s a bustling town that offers a fascinating mix of cultures and a gateway to the Golden Triangle.

Attractions & Vibe
Visit the Thailand-Myanmar Friendship Bridge, where you can cross into Myanmar, or explore Tham Luang Cave, known for the 2018 rescue. Mae Sai’s lively market scene is perfect for shopping for unique local goods.

Local Food & Customs
Mae Sai’s food blends Thai, Burmese, and Yunnanese flavors, including dishes like laphet thoke (fermented tea leaf salad) and khao soi Mae Sai. The town is also known for its colorful mix of spiritual practices and cultures.

Thailand’s hidden gems like Koh Samet, Sukhothai, and Mae Sai offer authentic cultural experiences and tranquil escapes beyond the typical tourist trail. These ten destinations reveal the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty for curious travelers.

Conclusion

Each of these ten underrated destinations—Koh Samet, Sukhothai, Koh Kood, Mae Sot, Nong Khai, Phitsanulok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Lampang, Phayao, and Mae Sai—offers a unique glimpse into Thailand’s diverse culture, nature, and hospitality. These destinations may not always make the top travel lists, but they hold their own charm, ready to offer unforgettable experiences for those willing to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. With easy access via services like 12Go for booking buses, trains, ferries, and vans, these hidden gems are well within reach, waiting to be discovered.