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An untamed beauty, fringed by very pretty beaches. River boats and bicycles are the perfect way to explore the scattered temple ruins of this former capital. During Taoist Lent, fasting Chinese devotees test their spiritual resolve with acts of gruesome self-mortification. For more information, see Phimai boat races & Khao Phra Viharn (Preah Vihear)The Khmers of neighbouring Angkor left a chain of magnificent temple complexes across the northeast, including this one at Phimai. Thailand’s top shopping experience features over eight thousand stalls selling everything from cooking pots to designer lamps. A lively and lavish temple, encompassing the awesome Reclining Buddha. Home to superb food and the chief religious and cultural riches of the south. Easy trails and tours, night safaris and a healthy cast of hornbills and gibbons. One of the most harmonious ensembles of temple architecture in the country. A spectacular 600km trip, winding over steep forested mountains. No visitor should miss this huge complex, which encompasses the country’s holiest and most beautiful temple, Wat Phra Kaeo. Of the many courses on offer in the town, cookery classes are the most instantly gratifying and popular. Set in rich mountain scenery, with a strong handicraft tradition and some intriguing temples. Combining elements of acupressure and yoga, a pleasantly brutal way to end the day. Apocalypse Now without the war. A popular choice for families, with its many long beaches and plentiful but low-key resort facilities. Walking through the beautiful, rainforested scenery of northern Thailand’s mountains comes with the bonus of getting to know the fascinating hill tribes. Thailand’s most scenic train journey is also its most historic, using the track constructed by World War II POWs. Even novice climbers can scale the cliffs at Ko Yao Noi, Phi Phi or the Railay peninsula for an unbeatable perspective on the Andaman seascape. Hire a bicycle to explore the elegant ruins of Thailand’s thirteenth-century capital.