The Ultimate Thailand Itinerary – 3 Weeks to 3 Months!

Heading to Thailand and feeling overwhelmed by all the amazing places out there? Fear not! These epic Thailand itineraries, ranging from 3 weeks to 3 months, highlight the best destinations and cater to a range of travellers.

After spending several years exploring Thailand (our founder Nikki even lived there for a while), the team at South East Asia Backpacker has gathered a wealth of insider knowledge about the country. Now, we’re sharing it all with you. Get ready to plan your perfect Thai adventure with these itineraries!

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Amazing Thailand Itineraries for Every Type of Traveller 🗺️

3-Month Thailand Itinerary

Central Thailand

🏙️ Days 1-5 Bangkok

Recommended Accommodation: Yak’s House Hostel

There’s no beating around the bush; arriving in Bangkok can overwhelm the senses. It’s loud, energetic and crowded. But it doesn’t take long to understand why so many people love this city!

Great public transport, unbelievable street food, fascinating markets, trendy bars and wild nights out are all on offer in Bangkok. Explore the notorious backpacker strip of Khao San Road but don’t spend all your time there – Bangkok’s true charm comes from the clash of cultures and religions that make up this eminently liveable city!

While in Bangkok, don’t miss:

The Grand Palace – One of Bangkok’s busiest attractions, the Grand Palace used to be home to the Thai Royal Family but its other glittering resident, the Emerald Buddha, is arguably the star of the show. The entry fees are a little steep but well worth it in our opinion!
Wat Arun – Found in Thonburi, a quieter part of Bangkok, Wat Arun is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Chatuchak Market – One of the biggest markets in the world, you can lose hours wandering between stalls selling almost anything.
Massages – Thai massage is more than a luxury; it’s a must-do Thai experience!
The ‘Green Lung’ – If you’re getting fed up with Bangkok’s constant motion, the ‘Green Lung’ a.k.a. Bang Krachao, is the perfect escape. Hire a bicycle and spend the day exploring!

👉 More Info for Bangkok: Bangkok Travel Guide | Recommended Bangkok Itinerary

🌉 Days 6-8 Kanchanaburi

Recommended Accommodation: Siam Guesthouse

Travel from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi via train, bus or minibus. The train is the most pleasant and cheapest way to make the journey but also the longest at around 4 hours. Minibuses are fastest but also more expensive, taking around 2.5 hours.

Home to the River Kwai Bridge, made famous by the WWII epic The Bridge On The River Kwai, Kanchanaburi sees plenty of tourists to its main hotspots. But don’t forget to spend some time trekking in the surrounding countryside and swimming in beautiful waterfalls too. We promise you won’t be disappointed with what this small town has to offer.

While in Kanchanaburi, don’t miss:

The Kwai Bridge and Museum – Without context, the Kwai Bridge doesn’t look like much. Visit the museum to understand what went into its creation.
Death Railway – Journey through history to learn about why this mammoth project cost so many lives.
Erawan Falls – An epic seven-tiered waterfall with beautiful swimming spots!

👉 More Info for Kanchanaburi: Kanchanaburi Travel Guide

🛕 Days 9-11 Ayutthaya

Recommended Accommodation: Baan Bussara

From Kanchanaburi, it’s less than a 3-hour drive to Ayutthaya. Minibuses make the journey every day.

Once the capital of Siam and the largest city in the world, Ayutthaya is on the confluence of the Chao Phraya, Lopburi and Pa Sak Rivers, making it a vital hub of trade and influence in Southeast Asia. It was regarded as one of the finest cities in the world until its destruction in the late 18th century.

Rediscovered in the 1950s, the ancient temples and ruins of Ayutthaya give a glimpse of this lost wonder – spend a couple of days here to get a taste of Thailand’s rich history.

Sunset at Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Ayutthaya, Thailand

While in Ayutthaya, don’t miss:

Buddha Head in a Tree – Probably the most famous image from Ayutthaya is the Buddha head statue wrapped in the root system of a Banyan tree. You’ll find it for yourself at Wat Mahathat.
Temples & Ruins – It’s why you’re here, so hire yourself a bicycle and spend a couple of days exploring them!
Chao Phrom Market – An authentic Thai market where you’ll find some amazing traditional food for real local prices.

👉 More Info for Ayutthaya: Ayutthaya Travel Guide | Ayutthaya vs Sukhothai – Which One Should You Visit?

🪷 Days 12-14 Sukhothai

Recommended Accommodation: Le Charme Sukhothai Historical Park

Assuming you’ve not had your fill of temples yet, take the 6-hour bus ride to Sukhothai. Like Ayutthaya, Sukhothai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and another ancient capital city.

The old city is split into five distinct areas: north, east, south, west and central. Housing many of the most impressive temples and ruins, the central area is the most frequently visited.

Buddha statue across a pond in Sukhothai

While in Sukhothai, don’t miss:

Sukhothai Historical Park – Hire a bicycle or scooter to get around all the main temples in a day. Otherwise, budget a couple of days to explore the place on foot! Make sure to visit Wat Saphan Hin in the western zone.
Sangkhalok Museum – Located outside of the historical park, Sangkhalok Museum houses a fascinating collection of ancient artefacts from the local area.
Loy Krathong – Celebrated in Central and Northern Thailand in November, Loy Krathong Festival is when locals float beautifully decorated baskets down the Ping River. Often containing candles and incense, this makes for a stunning show as thousands of tiny lights flicker away. Grab a table near the river and enjoy the show if you’re not taking part!

👉 More Info for Sukhothai: Sukhothai Backpacking Guide

Northern Thailand

🌆 Days 15-19 Chiang Mai

Recommended Accommodation: The Common Hostel

Jump on a bus from Sukhothai to Chiang Mai. The journey takes around 5 hours. Known as ‘the capital of the north’, Chiang Mai is a popular city with tourists, expats and digital nomads looking for more than lazy days on the beach! Accommodation is cheap, food is cheap and activities are cheap too. Once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai is a cultural hotspot waiting to be explored.

backpacker trekking their way on the trail - Mae Wang, Thailand

While in Chiang Mai, don’t miss:

Temples – With over 300 temples in the city, you could explore them for your entire trip and still not see them all! Among the most notable temples in Chiang Mai are: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chiang Man, Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Sri Suphan.
Weekend Markets – Try to time your visit with the weekend to see one of the most spectacular markets Thailand has to offer. Sunday’s market near the Thapae Gate is the largest and most impressive. You’ll find everything from clothes and jewellery to traditional indigenous handicrafts and instruments!
Thai Massage – Not only can you get some of the best Thai massages out there but in Chiang Mai, you can learn how to perform them too with multi-day courses!
Elephant Sanctuaries – Visit elephants that have been rescued from the cruel riding industry at one of Chiang Mai’s ethical sanctuaries. BEES is our favourite!
Outdoor Adventures – Trekking, rafting, kayaking, cycling, ATVs and even bungy jumping are all on offer in and around Chiang Mai!

👉 More Info for Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai Travel Guide | Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai | Best Hostels in Chiang Mai | Hiking in Chiang Mai, Thailand

🛕 Days 20-22 Chiang Rai

Recommended Accommodation: Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort

Jump on one of the regularly scheduled buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. The 3-4 hour journey takes you past two stunning national parks and is a pleasure in itself!

Chiang Rai is a relaxing and charming city. Smaller and quieter than Chiang Mai, it’s the best city in Thailand for those wanting to get off the beaten track and into the Golden Triangle. Many treks start in and around the city, making it the perfect destination for outdoor lovers but if you prefer to soak up some Thai culture, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy.

The White Temple in Chiang Rai northern Thailand

While in Chiang Rai, don’t miss:

Trekking – Some of the best treks in Thailand leave from Chiang Rai. The area’s combination of verdant jungle, towering mountains and multiple tribal ethnic groups creates a unique environment for hikers. Plenty of agencies offer overnight treks that include jungle camping or local homestays.
Temples – Even if you’re feeling a little ‘templed out’ by this point, don’t be put off seeing a few of the majestic wats in Chiang Rai – they’re worth it, I promise! Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) is the most famous and a beautiful contrast to Baan Dam Museum (a.k.a. The Black House) – the two aren’t far apart and can easily be visited in a day. But the most revered among Thais is Wat Phra Kaew (not to be confused with Bangkok’s Grand Palace).
Chiang Rai Hill Tribe Museum – Learn about the local ethnic groups in this interesting museum. A perfect place to visit before heading out on a trek.
Art Galleries – Chiang Rai has become a hotspot for artists, yogis and free thinkers, leading to an array of galleries and arty cafés. And yes, arty cafés usually mean good coffee!

👉 More Info for Chiang Rai: Chiang Rai Travel Guide

😎 Days 23-26 Pai

Recommended Accommodation: Farm House Boutique Pai

Getting from Chiang Rai to the backpacker paradise of Pai involves getting the bus back to Chiang Mai and jumping on a minibus from there. Some tour agencies provide combined tickets with guaranteed connections but these aren’t always available.

Until the mid-naughties, Pai was little more than a small mountain town but now it’s become a Mecca for laidback travellers wanting to unwind for a few days (or weeks)! Bamboo forests, lush rice paddies, waterfalls, natural hot springs and amazing hiking first attracted travellers but the town’s laidback charm kept them coming back!

Amidst the rice fields @ Sitjemam Muay Thai Camp, Pai, Northern Thailand.

While in Pai, don’t miss:

Trekking – If you’ve not had your fill of trekking yet, you’ll find plenty of amazing day hikes and overnight adventures on offer!
Caving – Pai is surrounded by some of Thailand’s most accessible cave systems. You can book tours with most agencies in town.
Explore Under Your Own Steam – Hire a motorbike and set off into the countryside – go where the wind takes you and see what you find.
Pai Night Market – Expect to find budget-friendly street food from around the world. It’s not just noodles and rice on offer, you’ll find plenty of tacos, burgers and fries – none of which will break the bank!

👉 More Info for Pai: Pai Travel Guide | Chiang Mai to Pai Bus Journey

🌳 Days 27-29 Mae Hong Son

Recommended Accommodation: Jungle Guest House

From Pai, grab a minibus from the bus terminal to the quaint town of Mae Hong Son. Mae Hong Son might just be the most lovable Thai town you’ve never heard of. You won’t find the same number of tourist bars and restaurants as in other Thai towns but you can still find great street food and good quality accommodation.

The Bamboo Bridge across rice fields in Mae Hong Son

While in Mae Hong Son, don’t miss:

The Bamboo Bridge – Located a short journey outside town, the Bamboo Bridge connects Kung Mai Saak village to the nearby temple over rice fields. Free to wander across, the bridge provides amazing views of the surroundings!
Namtok Mae Surin National Park – Mountains, waterfalls and caves, everything you’ve come to expect from Northern Thailand!
Phuklon Mud Spa – More rustic than the initial advertising suggests, the Phuklon Mud Spa is a budget-friendly way to experience hot mineral pools, mud baths, body scrubs and massage services!
The Mae Hong Son Loop – This epic motorcycle journey takes in 650 km of Thailand’s finest scenery. Often used as the starting base for the trip, Mae Hong Son is just one stop on this fantastic route; others include: Mae Cham, Doi Inthanon (Thailand’s highest mountain), Khun Yuam, Soppong and Pai.

👉 More Info for Mae Hong Son: Mae Hong Son Travel Guide | Mae Hong Son Loop Guide

🛕 Days 30-32 Mae Sariang

Recommended Accommodation: Mae-Sa-Riang Home

For a dose of small-town Thailand, jump on a bus or minibus from Mae Hong Son to Mae Sariang. Both leave frequently every day.

There’s not much to do in Mae Sariang but that’s the point. Still relatively untouched by tourism, the only visitors to the town are generally riding the Mae Hong Son Loop. Good accommodation is easy to come by and you can expect to spend your days split between people-watching and visiting a few Burmese temples.

🚐 Day 33 Return to Chiang Mai

Take the 3-4 hour journey back to Chiang Mai by minibus, ready to pick up your onward transport or tour.

⛰️ Days 33-35 Doi Inthanon

Recommended Accommodation: Ban Rai Jai Chaem

From Chiang Mai, either rent a motorcycle or hop on a group tour to explore Doi Inthanon. The latter is easiest if you don’t ride a motorcycle – unfortunately, the public transport to the park is pretty limited!

Known as the ‘Roof of Thailand’, Doi Inthanon is Thailand’s largest national park and an absolute dream for nature enthusiasts. Home to cascading waterfalls, extensive hiking trails and lush jungle, this is the place to go if you want to see a more rural Northern Thailand. Did we mention it’s home to Thailand’s tallest mountain? This is just another reason to squeeze a visit into your Thailand itinerary!

Sunrise view over Doi Inthanon National Park

While in Doi Inthanon, don’t miss:

Trekking – There are countless hiking trails which weave throughout the national park, all offering the chance to see a variety of flora and fauna. The Kew Mae Pan Trail is the most popular, however, you will need to hire a guide.
Doi Inthanon Summit – While there is no long, adventurous hike to the summit of Thailand’s tallest mountain, it is still worth a trip for the views. Come at sunrise for the scenery at its best.
Hillside Villages – There are a few small Karen hill tribe villages that live in the area, who are very involved with tourism. Learn about their transition from opium farming to coffee cultivation.
Waterfalls – Waterfalls are aplenty at Don Inthanon; Don’t forget to bring swimwear so that you can cool off!

👉 More Info for Don Inthanon: Don Inthanon National Park Guide

🚎 Days 36-37 Return to Chiang Mai and Bangkok

Once your legs need a break, return to Chiang Mai and jump on an overnight bus to Bangkok. It is here that you’ll pick up transport to your next destination. Unfortunately, your onward travel to Khanom is onboard another overnight bus from Bangkok. However, hardly anyone visits this forgotten coastal gem – we promise the journey will be worth it!

Southern Thailand

🐬 Days 38-40 Khanom

Recommended Accommodation: Leeloo Paradise

The beautiful Khanom is one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets. The jungle-clad hills butt up against stunning coastline, offering up some of the most deserted beaches in the country. Better still, the area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts who make the long journey here to see Thailand’s rare pink dolphins.

While in Khanom, don’t miss:

Pink Dolphins – Khanom is most famous for the unusual pink dolphins that call this area home. If you want to see them, you’ll need to embark on a boat trip. We recommend choosing an eco-conscious company that respects the space of the animals and is mindful of the environment. Mr Daeng’s Khanom Tour is the best-rated outfit in the area.
Beaches – Unlike better-known coastal locations in Thailand, Khanom is yet to be spoiled by mass tourism. Any of the beaches in town promise to be quieter than those you’ll experience on the nearby islands of Samui, Tao and Phangan. Pack your towel and soak up some sun.
Natural Fish Spa – Let us be upfront here, this is something you will either love or hate. Dip your toes in this natural fish spa and let those slippery suckers do their thing! The fish will nibble away at all the dead skin on your feet, leaving your feet softer than a baby’s bum.

👉 More Info for Khanom: Khanom Travel Guide

Gulf of Thailand

⛴️ Day 41 Travel to Koh Samui

Many companies offer transport between Khanom and Koh Samui. You’ll need to head to the Don Sak pier and board a ferry to the island from there. Tickets purchased online in advance or via accommodation providers usually include both legs of the journey.

🏖️ Days 42-46 Koh Samui

Recommended Accommodation: Thai Fight Hotel

Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most touristy islands and many backpackers dismiss it for this reason. You really should give it a chance, though! While it is undoubtedly the package holiday destination of Thailand (along with Phuket), it boasts beautiful beaches, stunning resorts and a range of retreats, from Muay Thai to meditation.

While in Koh Samui, don’t miss:

Ang Thong Marine Park – For a slice of picture-perfect Thailand, don’t miss the breathtaking Ang Thong Marine Park, said to be the inspiration for Alex Garland’s cult classic, The Beach.
Beaches – There are beaches on Koh Samui to please every kind of traveller. From the buzzing Chaweng strip to quieter hideaways like Lamai, it’s easy to wile away time relaxing on golden sands.
Fitness Classes – After all that lazing about, you may start to crave a bit of movement. Do a yoga class, try out your Muay Thai skills or go the whole hog and book a full-length fitness retreat!
Big Buddha – As the name implies, this Big Buddha statue is one of the most notable attractions in the area. While it is easy to feel like you’ve seen plenty of temples and Buddhas if you’ve been in Thailand a while, this is one of the best.

👉 More Info for Koh Samui: Koh Samui Travel Guide | Lamai (Koh Samui) Guide | Best Muay Thai Camps in Koh Samui

🏝️ Days 47-51 Koh Phangan

Recommended Accommodation: Zama Resort

Jump on one of the regular ferries from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan. The two islands aren’t too far apart, so the journey takes less than an hour. Despite this, you shouldn’t expect more of the same – Phangan has a very different vibe to Samui!

Although Koh Phangan is best known as a party hotspot, famous for the legendary Full Moon Party, there is much more to this island than hedonism. A large community of freethinkers call Phangan home, which means a range of spiritual practices are available for open-minded guests, from ecstatic dance to tantric yoga. If wellness isn’t your bag, don’t worry. You’ll find plenty of breathtaking sands here, too!

While in Koh Phangan, don’t miss:

Full Moon Party – Slather on the UV paint, grab a bucket and plonk yourself down ready for the fire show. Love it or hate it, there is nothing quite like a Full Moon Party! And, if your trip doesn’t coincide with the full moon, ask around for the latest party dates – they are held across the lunar calendar.
Boat Trips – If you didn’t get a chance to visit Ang Thong Marine Park, there is another opportunity here. But, if you’ve already visited Thailand’s most beautiful archipelago, instead see Phangan’s sights on a day trip. Itineraries vary but make sure you get one which includes the stunning Bottle Beach.
Wellness – If you’re looking to connect to your inner self, Koh Phangan is the place to be. Retreats are dotted all over the island, encompassing disciplines like yoga, meditation and breathwork. No matter your preferred style, you’ll find somewhere to detox and rejuvenate among like-minded people.

👉 More Info for Koh Phangan: Koh Phangan Travel Guide | Full Moon Party Guide | Top Hostels in Koh Phangan

🐠 Days 52-54 Koh Tao

Recommended Accommodation: Closca Hostel Koh Tao

Just shy of 50 km from Koh Phangan lies Thailand’s diving Mecca, famous for its colourful coral, abundant sea life and budget-friendly dive courses. Every year, travellers flood to Thailand’s ‘Turtle Island’ for its crystal clear water and yep, you guessed it, sea turtles! Get here on board one of the regular speedboats or ferries from Koh Phangan.

Snorkeling Adventure | Full Day | KOH TAO, THAILAND

While in Koh Tao, don’t miss:

Diving – Koh Tao is the diving capital of Thailand, with colourful reefs, plentiful fish and a range of dive shops to help you get certified. Trips take place all around the island and divers have the chance of seeing barracuda, angel fish, reef sharks and turtles! You’ll need to do your research when it comes to choosing a dive school, as there are so many but the competition keeps the costs down.
Snorkelling – If you’re not a fan of deep water or would simply prefer to spend your hard-earned baht on Chang, fear not. You can still get a taste of Thailand’s underwater life on a snorkelling trip. Rent the gear yourself or embark on the group tour!
Koh Nang Yuan – Nang Yuan Island is undoubtedly one of the prettiest spots around Koh Tao. A favourite destination on snorkel/dive trips, it is well worth spending some time ashore to hike up to the famous viewpoint. Charter a long-tail boat to get here or kayak over from Sairee Beach.

👉 More Info for Koh Tao: Koh Tao Travel Guide | A Guide to Diving in Koh Tao | Top Hostels in Koh Tao | Snorkelling in Koh Tao

🚐 Day 55 Travel to Khao Sok

Gear up for a whole day of travel from Koh Tao to Khao Sok National Park. The best way to make the journey is to hop on board a speedboat to the mainland and then take minibus transport to Khao Sok (usually with a transfer in Surat Thani). Bear in mind that this journey can be a little pricey but by opting for the speedboat, you shave up to five hours off your journey!

🏞️ Days 56-59 Khao Sok National Park

Recommended Accommodation: Khao Sok River & Jungle Resort

Khao Sok National Park frequently features on many a bucket list. With karst limestone mountains, crystal clear waters and an array of vibrant wildlife, the park is nothing short of a marvel. Although it can be a bit of a challenge to reach depending on where you are coming from, we promise it’s worth the journey!

The Ultimate Thailand Itinerary – 3 Weeks to 3 Months!

While in Khao Sok, don’t miss:

Hiking – Khao Sok National Park is one of Southeast Asia’s best hiking destinations. While there aren’t loads of trails, the ones that do exist showcase some of the best jungle scenery out there!
Boat Trips on Cheow Lan Lake – The aquamarine Cheow Lan Lake was created by the Ratchaprapha Dam and makes for the perfect way to spend a day. Hop on a boat at the pier to take in the park scenery in a leisurely fashion.
Floating Bungalows – If you book a multi-day trip to Khao Sok National Park (and if you want to do more than scratch the surface), you’ll get the opportunity to overnight in one of the iconic floating bungalows. Lots of companies offer these trips but we love these Khao Sok Floating Bungalow Tours run by Khao Sok Lake.
Wildlife – Khao Sok is home to the oldest evergreen forest in the world, so it comes as no surprise that it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for hornbills, monkeys and even elephants (but only if you’re very lucky)! Hire a guide for the best chance of spotting rare and exotic species.

👉 More Info for Khao Sok: Khao Sok National Park Guide | How to Get to Khao Sok | Floating Bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake

Andaman Coast

🚐 Day 60 Travel to Koh Phayam via Ranong

Catch a minibus from Khao Sok National Park to Ranong and pick up onward transport to Koh Phayam from there. Boats depart regularly from Ranong Pier.

🥥 Days 61-65 Koh Phayam

Recommended Accommodation: Phuree Hut

Koh Phayam is much less developed than other Thai islands and there really isn’t much to do there but that is the whole point! Relaxing is the name of the game here. If you’re feeling active, Koh Phayam is also one of the few places you can surf in Thailand.

While in Koh Phayam, don’t miss:

Hornbills – Oriental Pied Hornbills are a regular sight all over Koh Phayam. Keep your eyes peeled for them swooping overhead!
Hin Talu – These interesting rock formations can be found on a wonderfully quiet beach. Bring a towel and pitch up a spot in the sunshine.
Hippie Bar – Located in Buffalo Bay, this driftwood construction in the shape of a pirate ship is the place to go for a cheeky cocktail with a sea view.
Ao Yai – The longest beach on the island where you can catch some waves or enjoy the sunset.

👉 More Info for Koh Phayam: Koh Phayam Travel Guide

🚤 Day 66 Travel to Krabi/Ao Nang

Jump on a boat back to Ranong and head to the bus station to pick up onward transport to Krabi. From there, you can hop in a minibus bound for Ao Nang. This is the best place to base yourself in this area and will give you easy access to other places of interest.

🧗🏻‍♂️ Days 67-71 Ao Nang

Recommended Accommodation: Poonsiri Resort Ao Nang

Located in the Krabi province, Ao Nang is the best base for travellers heading to this area. The town itself is nestled among the karst limestone cliffs and there are plenty of bars and restaurants all within walking distance. If you are looking for beautiful beaches, Railay Beach and Ton Sai are just a long-tail boat ride away. For closer adventures, we recommend hiring a scooter to get around.

While in Ao Nang, don’t miss:

Tiger Temple – Famous for the tiger footprints inside, this Buddhist Temple is around a half-hour ride from Ao Nang. Sure, you’ll have to ascend 1,260 stairs to get to the top but trust us when we say the views are well worth it.
Penis Cave – Located in Railay, this unusual cave is stuffed full of giant penises! Watch out for the mischievous monkeys that hang around this area.
Rock Climbing – Railay Beach is one of the best places for rock climbing in the country. With a range of pitches to suit all abilities, this is a great place to try climbing for the first time. If you want to give it a go, check out this tour with our partner here.

👉 More Info for Ao Nang: Krabi Travel Guide | Ao Nang Destination Guide | Railay and Tonsai Guide | Rock Climbing in Railay, Krabi

🛥️ Day 72 Travel to Koh Lanta

The easiest way to get to Koh Lanta from Ao Nang is to book a private minivan transfer. These also include the cost of the short ferry journey to cross onto the island. The journey will take between 3-4 hours.

🐒 Days 72-76 Koh Lanta

Recommended Accommodation: De Saran Lanta

Becoming increasingly popular over recent years but still retaining its rustic charm, Koh Lanta is a wonderful slice of paradise to while away a few days. It may surprise you to learn that Koh Lanta actually refers to two islands: Koh Lanta Noi in the north (not touristy at all) and Koh Lanta Yai in the south (the hub for all things tourism). Don’t be put off, though. Koh Lanta benefits from western comforts and undeveloped stretches of sand – the best of both worlds. The South East Asia Backpacker team love Koh Lanta so much that we have all called it home for a bit!

Travellers on the beach in Koh Lanta Thailand

While in Koh Lanta, don’t miss:

Koh Lanta Noi – Welcome to the Lanta that tourism forgot. Retaining its authentic vibe, Lanta’s northern island is wonderfully undeveloped, with only a few locals and monkeys calling the island home. Rent a scooter and zip about the deserted roads while taking in the views.
Mu Lanta National Park – Located at the very bottom of Lanta Yai, the national park is the place to go if you want to see wildlife. Home to a range of exotic birds and monkeys, the journey there is a lot of fun and there is a fun but sweat-inducing hike down to one of the finest beaches the island has to offer.
Lanta Animal Rescue – This inspiring rescue centre for dogs and cats is well worth a visit. Funded by the associated cooking school, Time for Lime, which cooks up mouthwatering Thai dishes, they run tours to showcase their work to visitors. Adopt a new furry friend or support their work through a visit or cooking class.

👉 More Info for Koh Lanta: Koh Lanta Travel Guide | Top Beaches on Koh Lanta, Thailand

🛥️ Day 77 Travel to Koh Lipe

You can catch a speedboat from Lanta to Lipe, which leaves several times a day. Unfortunately, speedboat transport is pretty expensive, so make sure you have accounted for this in your budget.

🌴 Day 78-81 Koh Lipe

Recommended Accommodation: Forra Dive Resort

Koh Lipe is a little like island living when backpacking first reached Thailand’s shores. Hippy stalls selling fisherman’s pants line every street, the smell of grass is in the air and at night, the beaches come alive with fire dances. It’s a great place to get back to the backpacking of old – just be prepared to deal with the crowds. The secret is already out.

The gorgeous beaches of Koh Lipe, Thailand.

While in Koh Lipe, don’t miss:

Diving – The marine life and colourful coral reefs make diving a great thing to do here and there are plenty of dive outfitters ready to take you out. Forra Diving comes highly recommended and they also offer cute bungalows just a stone’s throw from the beach.
Island Hopping – There are loads of idyllic islands dotted around Koh Lipe just waiting to be explored. Hop on a boat trip to see a selection of them. Trips usually include snorkel spots and lunch.

👉 More Info for Koh Lipe: Koh Lipe Destination Guide

⛴️ Day 82-83 Travel to Koh Phi Phi

Speedboat transfers between Koh Lipe and Phuket tend to take between 5-6 hours. To break up the journey, you’ll want to overnight in Phuket and catch a morning ferry to Koh Phi Phi.

🐚 Days 84-86 Koh Phi Phi

Recommended Accommodation: Voyagers Hostel

It’s getting towards the end of your trip, so it is only right that you finish it with a bang. Head to Phi Phi Island for parties (with buckets so cheap it would be rude not to!) and day trips to some of Thailand’s most famous attractions. It’s touristy but for good reason.

While in Koh Phi Phi, don’t miss:

The Viewpoints – There are a couple of viewpoints in Phi Phi which are well worth hiking to. They showcase incredible views of the surrounding scenery and are a great place to meet your fellow travellers, especially if you go for sunset.
Parties Galore – Phi Phi has been a party hotspot ever since backpackers first found themselves on the island’s powdery shores. There are loads of beach clubs across the island, all boasting generous happy hours and huge buckets. Make the most of the drinks deals as Phi Phi ain’t cheap!
Maya Bay – Made famous by the cult classic The Beach, Maya Bay has long attracted tourists to its powdery soft sand. It has closed several times, mainly to preserve its fragile ecosystem, but is now open again and ready to welcome travellers.

👉 More Info for Koh Phi Phi: Koh Phi Phi Backpacking Guide

✈️ Days 87-89 Phuket

Recommended Accommodation: Shunli Hostel

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country. Despite its touristy feel, there is still charm to be found, particularly in the Old Quarter, which has retained an authentic, laidback vibe.

While in Phuket, don’t miss:

Old Quarter – Jam-packed full of colonial architecture, chilled coffee shops and lively jazz bars, Phuket’s Old Quarter is a must-visit for history lovers. A vibrant fusion of Malay, Portuguese and Chinese influences, it is the cultural heart of the island.
Patong Nightlife – If you’re looking to party, get your butt down to Bangla Road where the tunes never stop. Nightlife is 24/7 here and the drinks never stop flowing.
Muay Thai – If you want to watch Thailand’s national sport in action, Phuket is a great place to do it. Patong Boxing Stadium regularly hosts fights and the venue is very tourist-friendly. If that whets your appetite, you can also try honing the moves yourself at a Muay Thai training camp.

👉 More Info for Phuket: Phuket Destination Guide

6-Week Thailand Itineraries

Beaches – Bangkok, Samui, Phangan, Tao, Khao Sok, Koh Chang, Koh Phayam, Krabi, Lanta, Lipe, Phuket, Bangkok

Mountains and Culture – Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Song, Mai Sariang, Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai, Bangkok

Mountains, Beaches and Culture – Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Khao Sok, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, Bangkok

1-Month Thailand Itineraries

Beaches – Bangkok, Samui, Phangan, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Phuket, Bangkok

Mountains and Culture – Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Song, Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai, Bangkok

Mountains, Beaches and Culture – Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, Samui, Koh Phangan, Khao Sok, Koh Phayam, Krabi, Phuket

3-Week Thailand Itinerary

Beaches – Samui, Phangan, Khao Sok, Koh Chang/Phayam, Krabi, Phuket

Mountains and Culture – Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Doi Inthanon, Bangkok

Mountains, Beaches and Culture – Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui

Where would you add to these Thailand itineraries? Let us know in the comments!