Thailand: 11 Days of Culture, Beaches, Temples and Nature!

Thailand is a popular destination among travelers due to its rich culture, stunning beaches, and mouth-watering cuisine. Our 11-day itinerary covers the best tourist attractions, vegetarian-friendly restaurants, and adventure activities in Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui. Join us on our Thailand guide for spending 11 days amidst culture, beaches, temples, hidden gems, beautiful architecture, mouthwatering flavors, thrilling adventures, breathtaking landscapes and nature!

Useful Trivia for Traveling in Thailand:

• Local Currency: The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB).
• Languages Spoken: The official language of Thailand is Thai. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among service industry professionals, it’s helpful to know a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your travel experience.
• Visa Details: It is quite easy to get a visa for Thailand. We got it within 3-4 working days.
• Largest Community: The largest ethnic group in Thailand is the Thai population itself, followed by various minority groups and indigenous peoples.
• Mode of Transport: Thailand has a diverse range of transportation options. Tuk-tuks, taxis, and motorcycle taxis are common for short distances within cities. Long-distance travel between cities is often facilitated by buses, trains, and domestic flights.
• Essential Apps: Consider using apps like Google Maps for navigation and finding local attractions. For language translation and communication, Google Translate can be useful. Apps like Grab, Gojek, HappyCow come in really handy for transport and vegetarian food options.
• Local SIM Card: You can easily purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport or from mobile providers like AIS, dtac, and TrueMove. These SIM cards offer data and voice services, enabling you to stay connected and share your travel experiences.
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is crucial when visiting Thailand. It should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other unforeseen situations, especially if you plan to engage in adventure activities or explore remote areas.

Day Wise Itinerary:

Day 1 – Arriving in Bangkok

Our adventure in Thailand started with our arrival in Bangkok, which was a smooth and hassle-free experience, as we took advantage of the Visa on Arrival service and picked up our SIM cards at the airport. Thanks to the efficient and friendly services at the airport, we were able to start our adventure with ease and convenience, setting the tone for an unforgettable trip.

We decided to explore the city’s top attractions on our first day after checking in to our hostel. We started with the iconic Grand Palace, the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782. The stunning architecture and intricate details left us in awe.

After visiting the majestic Grand Palace, we were eager to witness the beauty and grace of the Khon Thai Masked Dance, a traditional performance that has been cherished for generations, which led us to the Khon Thai Masked Dance Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre, a true marvel of art and tradition.

We then visited Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, which features the impressive 46-meter-long golden Buddha statue. For dinner, we went to Ethos, a vegan restaurant that offered delicious plant-based options.

Day 2 – Exploring Bangkok

We started the day by visiting the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in the world, where we found everything from clothing and accessories to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Next, we visited the Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, which boasts of a unique architectural style and stunning views of the city.

We visited the dazzling Terminal 21 Mall where we enjoyed a feast of divine flavors. Among our favorites were the luscious Mango Sticky Rice, the luxurious Coconut Ice Cream, and the perfectly salted Cashews at the Gourmet Market, each satisfying our taste buds in their unique way.

Our evening in Bangkok was filled with energy and excitement, as we explored the vibrant Khao San Road, a bustling hub of activity that epitomizes the city’s lively culture. You can also try sak yant, the most popular Thai tattoo.

Day 3 – Bangkok to Phuket

On day 3, we took a flight to Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, after having our breakfast at BreadTalk at the Bangkok airport.

Our journey through Phuket was a culinary adventure that delighted our taste buds and rejuvenated our spirits. At Taipan restaurant in Old Phuket Town, we savored the exotic Black Sticky Rice Pudding, a decadent dessert that left us longing for more. For lunch, we visited Da Moreno at Town in Old Phuket Town, where we indulged in an Italian feast that tantalized our senses with its rich flavors and aromas.

Our adventures continued as we marveled at the Big Buddha, a 45-meter-tall statue that offers panoramic views of the island, and enjoyed a mesmerizing performance at Simon Cabaret in the evening. We then relaxed with Beers and Peanuts at the Kangaroo bar in Bangla Road, before indulging in a Thai massage at Enjoy Massage near Patong beach.

Our culinary journey culminated in a delightful dinner at Amritsr, near Patong beach on Bangla road, where we savored the most sumptuous punjabi cuisine, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 4 – Phi Phi Island Tour

We took a day trip to the stunning Phi Phi Islands, which are known for their crystal clear waters and stunning beaches. Enjoyed snorkeling, kayaking, and even saw some wild monkeys. We explored Maya Bay, where the movie “The Beach” was filmed, and enjoyed a delicious lunch on the island.

Later in the evening, we relished the exquisite Turkish ice cream, a frozen treat that was as much a delight for the eyes as it was for the taste buds in Old Phuket Town.

For dinner, we headed to Papazula Beer Sound, a charming eatery that promised a unique dining experience in Old Phuket Town. The menu was a delightful mix of international cuisine and local flavors, with each dish crafted to perfection. The ambiance was equally impressive, with a cozy vibe and live music that set the perfect mood for an unforgettable evening.

Day 5 – James Bond Island Tour

On day 5, we took another day trip, this time to James Bond Island, which is famous for being featured in the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”. We went kayaking through the sea caves, visited the Muslim fishing village of Koh Panyee, and enjoyed a traditional Thai lunch on the island.

Our journey through Phuket was nothing short of magical, with each experience leaving us in awe. During evening, we visited the spectacular Phuket FantaSea, a world-class cultural theme park that transported us to another realm, filled with wonder and enchantment.

For dinner, we headed to Khao Rang Breeze, situated atop the picturesque Khao Rang Hill View Point, where we enjoyed a feast for the senses. The breathtaking views of the city below were the perfect accompaniment to the sumptuous local cuisine that we savored, each dish more delicious than the last.

Day 6 – Phuket to Koh Phangan

Our morning started with a delectable breakfast at Campus Coffee Roaster in Old Phuket Town. We then took a ferry to Koh Phangan, an island famous for its full moon parties and beautiful beaches. Checked into our resort, and went to explore the island. We visited the stunning Thong Nai Pan Noi beach, which is known for its clear waters and picturesque setting. For dinner, we went to Karma Kafe, a vegetarian restaurant that offered a variety of tasty dishes.

Day 7 – Exploring Koh Phangan

We started the day by visiting the stunning Haad Rin Beach, known for its full moon parties and lively atmosphere. We then visited the Phaeng Waterfall, which offers a beautiful hiking trail and refreshing swimming holes. For lunch, we went to Eat.co, a vegetarian-friendly restaurant that served delicious and healthy food.

Our adventure in Koh Phangan was nothing short of exhilarating, as we attended the world-renowned Full Moon Party, a celebration like no other, where the night comes alive with music, dancing, and revelry under the gleaming moon.

We couldn’t resist the allure of the colorful Headbands that were being sold at the Full Moon Party, each one a unique work of art that added to the festive vibe.

After dancing the night away, we headed to Haad Rin Beach for a scrumptious dinner, where we feasted on the freshest seafood and other local delicacies, while gazing out at the serene sea.

To add to the fun, we also picked up some vibrant Neon paint at Haad Rin beach, a perfect way to commemorate our experience and add some color to the night.

Day 8 – Koh Phangan to Koh Samui

On day 8, we took a ferry to Koh Samui, another popular island in Thailand. We checked into our hotel, and went to explore the island. Explored the famous Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks, which are said to resemble male and female genitalia. We also visited the Big Buddha Temple, which features a 12-meter-tall golden Buddha statue.

Day 9 – Exploring Koh Samui

We started the day by having our breakfast at Coffee Cup, later we visited the Na Muang Waterfall, a stunning waterfall that offers a beautiful hiking trail and refreshing swimming holes. We then visited the Fisherman’s Village, a charming area that features traditional Thai houses and a variety of restaurants and shops. Our evening in Samui was an unforgettable experience, as we indulged in a culinary extravaganza at The Roof, a chic rooftop restaurant that offered breathtaking views of the sea.

Day 10 – Koh Samui to Bangkok

On day 10, we took a flight back to Bangkok. We checked into our hostel, and went to explore the city one last time. We visited the Wat Traimit, which houses the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue, and the Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, which features stunning white marble architecture.

Our day in Bangkok was an adventure in exploration and indulgence, starting with a delicious lunch at the Coffee & Condoms cafe, a quirky establishment that combines the unusual elements of coffee and safe sex awareness.

After lunch, we headed to Centre Point, Siam Square, a bustling shopping destination that offers an eclectic mix of stores, from high-end boutiques to local street vendors.

For our final dinner in Thailand, we went to May Kaidee’s, a vegetarian restaurant that served delicious Thai food.

Day 11 – Departure

As our 11-day adventure in Thailand drew to a close, we bid farewell to this enchanting country, carrying with us a treasure trove of unforgettable memories. But before we embarked on our journey home, we made sure to indulge in a delectable treat of sandwiches and croissants at the Zurich Bread Cafe in Bangkok’s airport.

With our stomachs content and hearts full, we boarded our flight home, feeling grateful for the incredible experiences we had in Thailand, and for the opportunity to indulge in such mouthwatering delights.

Thailand is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences, adventure activities, and culinary delights. From bustling cities to serene islands, Thailand has something for everyone. Don’t forget to try the local delicacies, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, and explore the breathtaking landscapes on your trip to Thailand!

P.S. – It is advisable to book all day trips / tourist attractions / activities / experiences through Klook or GetYourGuide. They offer amazing discounts online as compared to offline booking.