Thailand is a notoriously difficult place to get off the beaten path. Pretty much every corner of the country has been scoured by foreign tourists and written about by travel bloggers.

But, thankfully, there are still some lesser-known destinations in Thailand that most foreigners don’t know about. In fact, the 10 places compiled on this list are usually only frequented by local Thai tourists who are–let’s say–more in the know than a fresh off the boat tourist.

So if you are ready to ditch Bangkok, Full Moon Party, and the other stops along the well-worn tourist route, then why not hit up some of the spots listed below?

From incredible beaches to monkey-filled temples, these destinations are sure to blow you away–and give you a much different perspective on Thailand, its culture, and its people.

10 incredible off the beaten path destinations in Thailand

1. Ko Mak & Ko Kham: Better than Koh Chang

Foreign tourists adventuring to the eastern islands of Thailand near Cambodia typically opt for Koh Chang–an island famous for its hippie scene, chill vibes, and waterfalls.

But while it does have a lot of natural beauty, it can’t hold a candle to the beaches and relaxing charm of the small neighboring islands of Ko Mak and Ko Kham. Ko Mak and Ko Kham feature pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

And since these two islands are only frequented by handfuls of Thai tourists, you will have all the privacy you could ever dream of.

2. Loei: Thai culture in its purest form

Loei is a province in the north of Thailand bordering Laos and the Mekong River, known for its traditional Thai charm. Netflix subscribers and horror fans might know it as the filming location for “The Medium”.

Chiang Khan, a quaint town along the Mekong River, enchants visitors with its traditional teak wooden houses and vibrant night market. Loei also features a large amount of mountains and parks that visitors can explore.

Loei province is the perfect place for travelers who want to see what Thailand would have been like before becoming a hotbed for tourism.

3. Petchabun: Visit the trippy White Buddha

Nestled in the heart of Thailand, Petchabun is a province steeped in spiritual significance and natural beauty.

Wat Phra That Pha Sorn Kaew, the main attraction of Petchabun, is a mind-bending Buddha statue perched atop a mountain. Its psychedelic design dazzles visitors who want to see a truly unique Buddhist temple. There’s simply no other temple in the world like it.

Also nearby is Phu Thap Buek mountain. It offers mist-shrouded peaks and cool views for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

4. Lopburi: Hang out at the Monkey Temple

Our next stop takes us to Lopburi, a few hours drive north of Bangkok. This small Thai city went viral a couple of years ago due to its wild and raucous monkey infestation.

Although they are trying to put an end to the mayhem, dozens of roving gangs of monkeys still terrorize the town: stealing food, interrupting traffic, and being all-around nuisances. The monkeys have also taken ownership of Phra Prang Sam Yot, an ancient 13th century Khmer temple in the city center.

Tourists can visit the temple and watch as hundreds of monkeys frolic among the ancient ruins. Just make sure you don’t feed the monkeys, as the local businesses near the temple will get angry–and rightly so.

5. Prachuap Kiri Khan: Caves, cliffs, and beaches near Hua Hin

Just south of foreigner retirement hotspot Hua Hin is Prachuap Kiri Khan, a coastal province blessed with amazing nature.

Khao Daeng Viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the Gulf of Thailand coastline. Phraya Nakhon Cave, on the other hand, is home to a stunning Buddhist pavilion illuminated by sunlight streaming in.

For a more relaxed experience, nearby Hat Laem Sala offers a secluded beach paradise surrounded by towering cliffs that you can hike. And, finally, don’t miss out on the tranquil beauty of Bueng Bua Boardwalk or the panoramic views from Khao Lom Muak.

Just a short drive from Hua Hin, Prachuap Kiri Khan is truly a diamond in the rough.

6. Ko Phayam: Untouched island paradise

Off the coast of Ranong Province lies Ko Phayam, a beautiful island paradise still somehow untouched by mass tourism thanks to its remote location.

Think of pristine beaches, swaying palm trees, private bungalows on the beach, and incredible island vibes. Ko Phayam is the epitome of tropical bliss.

Visitors at Ko Phayam normally spend their days snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden coves, or simply unwinding in a hammock with a good book.

The fact that a magical island like this with so few tourists exists in the world is completely mind-blowing. But, hey, we aren’t complaining!

7. Pang Oung & Ban Rak Thai: Serene lake and Chinese village

Traveling further north to Mae Hong Son Province, we encounter Pang Oung and Ban Rak Thai, two hidden gems nestled near the border of Myanmar.

Pang Oung, while it isn’t known much by foreign tourists, it is one of the most popular tourist locations for locals.

Put simply, it’s a magical lake with a campground in a pine forest. In the early mornings, a thick blanket of mist covers the lake, making it look like something straight out of a fairytale.

Ban Rak Thai, on the other hand, is a nearby village established by Chinese immigrants who escaped during the Chinese Revolution.

The Chinese architecture, tea plantations, and streets lined with Chinese lanterns make it easily one of the most beautiful villages in Thailand. A boat ride on a traditional Chinese boat across the fog-covered river is a must.

Both of these off the beaten track destinations in Thailand can be done as part of the Mae Hong Son Loop, a popular motorbike route for backpackers.

8. Mon Cham: Hilltop village with awesome views

An hour’s drive outside of Chiang Mai is Mon Cham, a scenic hilltop village offering panoramic views of vegetable fields and the surrounding countryside.

Mon Cham is an extremely charming and chill place. There are dozens of affordable resorts perched on the hills with amazing views, all from the comfort of your bed. There are also numerous cute cafes to choose from.

We recommend that anyone visiting Chiang Mai rents a motorbike and rides to Mon Cham. The drive itself is worth it!

9. Mae Kampong: Traditional Thai village

Also not far from Chiang Mai, is the quaint village of Mae Kampong. It is one of the best preserved villages in Thailand that offers a glimpse of how traditional Thai village life must have been.

Mae Kampong Village is a sight for the eyes. Tourists can walk through the town’s main street and sample traditional Thai foods and snacks. Also nearby is a remarkable waterfall hidden away in the surrounding forest.

Right now, Mae Kampong is one the trendiest places for Thai domestic tourists, thanks in large part to its hip and modern accommodation options along the river leading to the village.

Just be careful if you are driving. The roads going through the village can be extremely steep.

10. Wat Tham Saeng Tham: Temple built on a mountain

Wat Tham Saeng Tham is a temple complex in Thailand built up the side of a mountain.

The temple is both huge and stunning. From the bottom, it’s a massively imposing structure that makes you wonder how it was even built in the first place. As you climb up the temple’s unending steps (you’re going to break a sweat), you can explore the many caves adorned with Buddhist statues and intricate carvings.

Once you finally make it to the top, the payoff is totally worth it. The view of the surrounding countryside is nothing short of majestic.

The only problem is that the temple is quite hard to get to. It’s a few hours of driving from any of the nearest cities, which happen to be Petchabun, Udon Thani, and Khon Kaen.

Get Off the Beaten Path in Thailand

Thailand is one of the most well-trodden countries in the world. For that reason, finding lesser-known spots and hidden gems is not very easy. But it’s not impossible.

So, why not take a chance and try something less known by tourists in Thailand? You might just love it!

Related: The 8 Most Common Tourist Scams in Thailand (And How to Avoid Them)