For those seeking a peaceful place to relax and rejuvenate, Agoda recently highlighted five up-and-coming destinations that are appealing, yet devoid of chaotic crowds.
With 50% higher searches on Agoda in 2023 compared to 2022, Nakhon Nayok is the top riser. There has also been a noticeable rise in interest in Ubon Ratchathani (29%), Suphan Buri (24%), Phetchabun (23%) and Trang (20%) compared to the previous year.
These are excellent places for tourists who want to spend weekends discovering natural wonders in the North or coastal treasures in the South.
Nakhon Nayok
Just a two-hour drive from Bangkok, Nakhon Nayok is a fantastic weekend escape with an easy-going vibe and beautiful scenery. At Khao Lon Adventure, nature lovers can stroll across a wooden bridge to cross through forests and see unique rock formations.
Climbers seeking adventure can experience an adrenaline rush as the scenery changes to a golden field of grass with stunning sunsets in the background.
Huai Prue Reservoir is worth a visit as it offers scenic views of green mountains at any time of day, while the road that encircles the reservoir is great for cycling. Alternatively, visitors can immerse themselves in a peaceful atmosphere while making merit at Khao Durian Temple where (almost) everything is pink.
Ubon Ratchathani
As the second-largest city in the northeastern region of Thailand, Ubon Ratchathani is promoting Sirindhorn Dam Nature Skywalk as a brand-new tourist attraction. The world's largest hydro-floating solar farm and the surrounding woodlands can both be seen from this 400m glass-floored promenade.
Back to earth, Hong Beach is a sand dune complex situated in the heart of the Mekong River that boasts steep inclines over 75 degrees. Accessible only by boat, the site is encircled by an amazing expanse of gleaming rocks with tones of deep bronze.
Sam Chuk Old Market. (Photo: Pattarawadee Saengmanee)
Suphan Buri
Suphan Buri is home to Sam Chuk Old Market, situated on the banks of Tha Chin River. It boasts a row of vintage wooden shop houses and a riverside community. For those wanting to live with nature, the Khao Wong Reservoir is a popular place to pitch a tent and enjoy camping activities under the starry sky.
Phetchabun. (Photos courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand)
Phetchabun
Phetchabun is famous for Sri Dit Waterfall with consistent water flow all year round, while the neighbouring forest displays rare species. Families can imagine themselves being in Jurassic Park while touring Amazing Dinosaur Khao Kho and greeting a T-rex.
History enthusiasts should not miss Si Thep Historical Park, which is the latest addition to the list of Unesco World Heritage Sites. This historical town features remarkable structures such as Khao Klang Nok and Khao Klang Nai, a Buddhist stupa renowned for its Dvaravati-style bas-relief and the small figurines surrounding the structure's foundation.
Koh Kradan. (Photo courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand)
Trang
With its immaculate white sands and crystal-clear waters, Koh Kradan was ranked as the world's best beach by the World Beach Guide website, making Trang the new rising star of the Andaman Sea. Once back on the mainland, Trang offers Sino-Portuguese architecture, century-old shrines and quaint churches.
It also provides the ideal combination of Thai and Chinese cuisines. There's a variety of options including Trang grilled pork and mei cai kou rou (Chinese pork belly with preserved vegetables), both revered as quintessential dishes representing the city.
