Travelling in Thailand has numerous challenges, not the least of which is the prevalence of disobedient drivers. However, a car is frequently the greatest way to see the Land of Smiles. As we showcase the top road excursions in Thailand, ignite your engines. Also keep in mind that you’ll need your driver’s license to hire a car here.
Start your road trip across Thailand outside of Bangkok by hiring a car in one of the country’s smaller cities. The roads are calmer and there is more to explore in the villages and towns you travel through the more you veer off the beaten path. Here are some of the favorite Thai road trips for ideas.
Visit Mae Sot via Sukhothai, Phetchabun, and Lopburi from Bangkok
Start your adventure in the center and travel for six to seven hours to Mae Sot in the west, one of Thailand’s least frequented cities. Spend some time in the city with Burmese influences splashing in waterfalls and exploring hot springs before travelling, a little more than two-hour drive away, to ancient Sukhothai.
There from, go to Lopburi in the southeast through Phetchabun. Amazing ruins, such as Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat as well as the Lopburi Palace of King Narai, may be found here. Numerous crab-eating macaques live in the city; come on the final Sunday in November to see the Lopburi Monkey Festival. You’ll need roughly two hours to return to Bangkok.
Kanchanaburi to Bangkok
Just a short while in Thailand? There is a lot to do once you get in Kanchanaburi, even though the trip from Bangkok should just take some time. Go to the city’s centre to visit the War Cemetery at Kanchanaburi and the River Bridge of Khwae Yai . The National Park at Erawan , where one of Thailand’s most renowned waterfalls is located, is located about forty minutes outside of the city. Visit the Railway Center of Thailand-Burma, which is nearby the city.
Rayong to Bangkok, Hua Hin, and Pattaya
Spend an overnight on Walking Street once travelling to Bangkok; it just takes approximately an hour to go from Rayong to Pattaya. The trip to the capital takes little over two hours; spend the day there and visit the temples, see a Muay Thai match, or have a traditional massage. Travelers can end their adventure at Hua Hin, a beach city 3 hours southwest to Bangkok.
Pai to Chiang Mai
The road seems to twist and curve the whole four-hour trip, making it immensely hazardous. This means that you should only go during the day if you feel confident using tight, uphill roads. Pai, which has a laid-back atmosphere, a numerous activities to see and do, and fantastic restaurants, is what’s left, though.
To Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai
Take a hire car and go to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai in four hours. There are a few remarkable rest places along the journey in the hilly region of northern Thailand, such as hot springs that allow you to boil an egg. Wat Rong Khun, often popular as the White Temple, is one of Chiang Rai’s most well-known tourist destinations.
Phetchabun to Bangkok
The scenic countryside vistas on the five-hour trip to Phetchabun from Bangkok are breathtaking. Leave the busy capital behind and travel through only the mountains, farmland, and a few gas stations. You don’t need to be concerned about the dangerous parts seen elsewhere because the route is not windy or hilly. When you get there, go visit Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, a beautiful temple that is nearly completely constructed of vibrant mosaic tiles.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Bid adieu to the historical Ayutthaya city and travel the roads to Chiang Mai, the capital of the north. The seven-hour trip is quite straightforward and takes you by national parks including Wiang Kosai and Si Satchanalai.
Driving advice for Thailand
Driving on the left is the legal norm in Thailand, but beware of natives who disobey the law, especially while riding a motorbike, which they frequently do on the right side of the road. Always yield to heavier vehicles, such as trucks and buses, and keep an eye out for pedestrians. It’s always wise to drive gently. With a home driving permit, you are permitted to rent automobiles, motorbikes, and scooters. Be sure to get the maximum amount of insurance, and keep your passport and licence (or keep various copies of the identity documents) on hand in case the police want to verify them.
