3 little-known tourist destinations near Bangkok that are extremely chill for a new journey of discovery

Bangkok is bustling – but have you ever wondered: is there anything else in Thailand? The answer is yes. And it lies just a few hours away from the capital – where nature, culture and a slow pace of life make people want to leave everything behind. Join me to discover 3 beautiful and little-known places in Thailand near Bangkok that will help you step out of the familiar circle.

As Bangkok has become a familiar name on the Southeast Asian tourist map, many people have begun to seek out different, quieter and more authentic experiences. The hustle and bustle of the Thai capital is undeniable, but sometimes, it is the noise that urges us to “go a little further” – not in terms of distance, but in terms of emotions and the depth of the journey.

And if you are looking for some tourist destinations near Bangkok but bring truly new, authentic and memorable experiences, then the itinerary below is for you - three names that are not on the popular tour, but are quietly causing a fever with those who love to experience Thai eco-tourism .

1. Koh Phayam – Peaceful island without dust

Where is Koh Phayam?

Ao Khao Kwai - A pristine beach in Koh Phayam, a little-known tourist destination near Bangkok. (Photo: Collected)

Located in southwestern Thailand, just a short flight and ferry ride from Bangkok, Koh Phayam is a small, unspoiled island in the middle of the Andaman Sea in Ranong Province – where everything is slow and quiet. This is one of the tourist destinations near Bangkok suitable for those looking for peace, relaxation and connection with nature.
There are no honking cars, no crowds, and cars are not even allowed on the island. What you will see most is sunshine, wind, greenery, and long stretches of deserted beaches.

>> See Thailand island tours:
1. Thailand: Phuket Sea Paradise - Phi Phi Island (4N3D)
2. Thailand: Phuket - Phi Phi Island & Phang Nga Bay (4N3D)
3. Thailand: Bangkok - Pattaya (Nong Nooch Village, Coral Island, Four Regions Floating Market, free Alcazar Show and Buffet at Baiyoke Sky) (5N4D)

What is Koh Phayam?

Ao Yai Beach - The most beautiful sunset spot on Koh Phayam Island. (Photo: Collected)

Ao Yai and Ao Khao Kwai are the island’s two most prominent beaches, but what makes Koh Phayam special is not the scenery but the feeling of being “alive,” not pushed by schedules or time. You can wake up in a wooden bungalow by the sea, meditate with the sunrise, kayak in the afternoon, or simply lie in a hammock, listening to the steady sound of the waves.

With an eco-friendly lifestyle, many homestays and eco-lodges on the island encourage visitors to immerse themselves in nature rather than over-consumption. This is a typical slice of Thai eco-tourism , where people and nature coexist in gentle respect.

2. Nan – Lanna beauty in the misty mountains and forests

What is special about Nan?

Sapa Village in Nan and the beautiful rice fields. (Photo: HashCorner)

Away from the sea, head to the northern mountains – where there is a small town called Nan (bordering Laos) that stands out for its ancient Lanna culture and majestic mountain scenery. This is the perfect destination for those who want to experience Thai ecotourism with rich cultural and natural elements.

Although not as famous as Chiang Mai or Pai, Nan still carries the soul of Lanna culture – ancient, profound and sincere. The first feeling when setting foot here is pleasant: fresh air, friendly people and a pace of life that you can blend into after just a few minutes of walking around.

>> Refer to the latest Thailand tour (5N4D) in 2025:
4. Thailand: Bangkok - Pattaya (Muang Boran Citadel, Big Buddha Temple, Castello Di Bellagio Pattaya Castle, enjoy Buffet at Baiyoke Sky, Colosseum Show, Thai Massage)
5. Thailand: Bangkok - Pattaya (Lighting Art Museum and Balloon Garden, Four Regions Floating Market, Enjoy dinner on Chao Phraya River Cruise, Free Calypso Cabaret Show Tickets, Gold-Foiled Cake and Mango Sticky Rice) | New Program
6. Thailand: Bangkok - Pattaya (Four Regions Floating Market, Lighting Art Museum and Balloon Garden, Enjoy dinner on Chao Phraya River Cruise, Free Calypso Cabaret Show Tickets, Gold-Foiled Cake and Mango Sticky Rice) | New Program

Experiences in Nan that will make you not want to leave

Ancient temple Wat Phumin in Nan – A place to experience unique Lanna culture. (Photo: Collected)

Strolling through Wat Phumin, a cultural icon of Nan, you will come across the poetic and philosophical mural “The Whispering Man”. The small paths leading to the textile dyeing village, where women sit diligently next to indigo vats, will make you feel the slow and unforced pace of life.

And if you like the mountains, the outskirts of Nan also have winding roads around the hillsides, perfect for cycling or light trekking. In the early morning, the mist covers the valley like a thin curtain, making you wonder if you are in reality or in a gentle dream.

It is this authenticity that makes Nan one of Thailand's lesser-known beauty spots, where each day feels fulfilling and healing.

3. Udon Thani – Legendary red lotus sea and rustic Isaan soul

Is Udon Thani just an industrial province?

Talay Bua Daeng – The magical red lotus sea in Udon Thani, Thailand. (Photo: chitsanupong Pakdeekul/Shutterstock)

Not at all! Tourist destination near Bangkok - Udon Thani belongs to Isaan region, a land with its own unique beauty, simple but containing many beautiful destinations, of which the most prominent is the red lotus sea Talay Bua Daeng.

Things not to miss in Udon Thani tourist area - Peaceful destination near Bangkok

Unlike Koh Phayam or Nan, Udon Thani has the appearance of a fairly developed province – but just a little further away from the center, you will reach Talay Bua Daeng, known as the most brilliant “sea of ​​red lotus” in Thailand. During the blooming season (November to February), the lake here is covered with thousands of bright red lotuses, like a watercolor painting dyed with the color of love.

Waking up at dawn, boarding a small boat and drifting gently through the lotus sea while the mist still hangs over the water – it’s not just a beautiful photo, but also an unforgettable feeling. The serenity of the scene makes Udon Thani an ideal destination for those pursuing a meditative and healing Thai eco-tourism experience.

Ban Chiang National Museum - A destination not to be missed when traveling to Udon Thani, Thailand. (Photo: Collected)

In addition to the lotus sea, this Isaan land is also famous for its rich and unique cuisine – dishes such as grilled chicken, som tum, lap… are sold throughout the markets and villages, making the trip full of flavor. You can combine a visit to Ban Chiang – an archaeological site recognized by UNESCO, to add cultural depth to the journey.

Three locations – three emotional circuits – one thing in common: they are all within reach if you depart from Bangkok. In an era where everything is fast and everyone is busy, finding a tourist destination close to Bangkok that still offers relaxation, privacy and a sense of openness is not easy. But Koh Phayam, Nan and Udon Thani are doing it – naturally and quietly.

Thailand is not just Bangkok , Phuket or Chiang Mai . If you are planning a trip near Bangkok but still looking for something new, original and memorable, these 3 suggestions will definitely not disappoint you. You may not see them on popular tours. Maybe no one is lining up to check-in these places. But that is why they deserve to be on the list of travelers with taste – and who know that the journey is really about depth, not distance. Don't forget to save this article to be ready for the next trip!
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Source of article: Collected and compiled
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Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/dia-diem-du-lich-gan-bangkok-it-nguoi-biet-v17427.aspx