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Published on June 13, 2024

When people think of Thailand, they have visions of the famous temples. The large, colourful, and intricately decorated structures are breathtakingly designed. However, Thailand is so much more than these famous buildings. Thailand’s rich and historic culture makes it a beautiful place with welcoming people. Its terrain makes it the perfect place to find relaxation from our busy world. For those looking to disconnect and slow down, the best wellness spots in Thailand offer treatments and services inspired by traditional methods. From soaking in the healing waters of the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs to communing with nature in Khao Sok National Park or enjoying a topical beach getaway in the Phi Phi Islands, there is something for everyone. Plan to visit these wellness sites in Thailand on your visit to this beautiful country.

San Kamphaeng hot springs in Chiang Mai |  Visit Southeast Asia

San Kamphaeng Hot Springs in Chiang Mai

Travellers worldwide make the pilgrimage to the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs in Chiang Mai to soak in its healing mineral waters. Visitors can enjoy foot soaking or bathing in the mineral water swimming pool. Located about 36 kilometres outside of town, the hot springs are surrounded by lush forests and vegetation. A peacefulness and calming effect happens when you soak in the healing hot waters and take in the Earth’s natural beauty around you. Two hot springs spray how water 20 meters into the air. The water deep within the Earth is over 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it cools off to a temperature safe for soaking in, thanks to the blowing wind. The remains hot, though, so hot that you could boil an egg in it. You may even see visitors cooking a snack and enjoying their egg with soy sauce. Just outside the springs is a collection of shops that sell local souvenirs.  

Raft Houses at Cheow Lake, Khao Sok National Park | Visit Southeast Asia

Khao Sok National Park

Turn your phone off and take a digital detox with a visit to one of Thailand’s most popular parks. Located in Southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is almost 200,000 acres of untouched nature. It is also the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world. Some areas of the park are so lush and dense they have yet to be discovered. Don’t fret; there is plenty to do in the park for visitors looking to have a memorable experience. Take one of the multi-day tours and have an up close and personal encounter with elephants, canoe the mangroves, or trek the trails along the limestone mountains. One of the best places to commune with nature is Cheow Lar Lake. The beautiful blue-green waters within the park are home to floating raft houses and luxury tents. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and riding in a traditional boat. Surrounding the lake are high limestone mountains that create an almost mystical feel to the area. 

Swan Boat Paddling at Lumphini Park | Visit Southeast Asia

Lumphini Park in Bangkok

As Bangkok’s first public park, Lumpini Park serves as a community gathering place for city residents. The park’s lush greenery provides a breeze of fresh air for those looking to spend some relaxing time outdoors. When visiting Bangkok in Thailand, take a lesson from the locals and recharge your body and mind with a visit to this beautiful little oasis at the city’s edge. The park was created in 1925 and once served as the place for ballroom dancing and parties. It is a bit more subdued today, but you will still find social dancing classes taught in the park. It is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a peaceful moment with friends or be alone. Visitors could check a book from the library in the park and enjoy reading in the shade of a large tree. On some weekends, live music, Tai Chi is taught, or athletic club sports are played. If you get hungry, stop by Sri Thai Derm Food Center for drinks and a bite. Rental swan paddle boats and rowing boats are available around the lake.

People Snorkeling at  Ko Phi Phi Island | Visit Southeast Asia

Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands is a group of two large and four smaller islands in the middle of the Andaman Sea, located about 42 kilometres from the city of Krabi. You can take a 90-minute ferry ride from Phuket or Krabi to the islands. The boat ride is well worth it for the tropical paradise that awaits you. The islands are world-renowned for their tropical waters, weather, and pristine beaches. The breathtaking rock formations that populate the island draw amazement from visitors as they marvel at their sheer scale, rising high above the water. The large island of Ko Phi Phi offers plenty for those looking to have a lively vacation. Here the snorkeling with the pristine waters full of exotic wildlife, is regarded as one of the best activities that visitors should not miss. There is a thriving nightlife with plenty of shopping, restaurants, and beach bars. The surrounding islands also offer a range of experiences, from modest accommodations for those looking to travel on a budget to elegant luxury retreats. The island of Phi Phi Leh is often used for filming Hollywood movies, including The Beach, Cutthroat Island, and Stealth.

Experience the Wellness Spots of Thailand 

There is something for everyone in Thailand, from bustling cities to the peaceful countryside. Those looking for physical healing and total body relaxation will appreciate the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs mineral waters in Chiang Mai. The Khao Sok National Park offers plenty of activities for travellers who find relaxation when communing with nature. The Lumpini Park in Bangkok is a perfect place to visit when your itinerary gives you little time to get out of the city but you still want to find a peaceful moment. In contrast, the Phi Phi Islands are the ideal destination for someone looking to have the ultimate exotic getaway without sacrificing the typical vacation amenities.

Plan for your next wellness trip to take you through Thailand’s exotic and diverse landscape.