DK Eyewitness - DK Eyewitness Thailand

Inspire / Plan / Discover / Experience

g

key to main icons

g

g

key to maps

g

t Dense tropical forest on Krabis coast

g

t Buddha statues at Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Home to serene Buddhist temples, legendarily wild nightlife, pristine ancient rainforest, bustling markets, and one of Southeast Asias biggest metropolises, Thailand is as diverse as it is fascinating. Whatever your dream trip to the country entails, this DK Eyewitness Travel Guide will prove the perfect companion.

Located at the beating heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is known worldwide for its lush islands and delectable cuisine. The capital city, Bangkok, is a multisensory feast which teems with people, sounds, color, and life. This is the place to eat the worlds best street food at sizzling Chinatown stalls, and discover Thailands thriving contemporary culture.

Heading north, and worlds away from buzzing Bangkok, Buddhism continues to thrive in the peaceful countryside of Chiang Mai, with its host of awe-inspiring temples. Crumbling ancient cities at Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, meanwhile, echo with the regions rich cultural history, while hill tribes continue to practice a unique and vibrant culture in the isolation of the northern mountains.

Thailands coastline is blessed with some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world, while its 1,000-plus offshore islands range from party paradises to renowned scuba diving hotspots. Nature lovers can explore the rainforests of Khao Sok, said to be the oldest on the planet, or spot elephants roaming the jungles of Khao Yai. However you choose to experience Thailands natural beauty, it will not disappoint.

The sheer diversity of Thailand can be overwhelming, but this guidebook breaks the country down into easily navigable chapters, full of expert knowledge and insider tips. Weve created detailed itineraries and colorful maps to help you plan the perfect trip, whether youre on a flying visit or an exciting extended adventure. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Thailand.

Elephants enjoying one of Thailands many rivers.

Boat perched on the coastline of Krabi Town.

Thai street food from a traditional market at dusk.

g

With the pristine wilds of its countryside, the rich culture and history of its cities, and an abundance of delicious cuisine, there are endless reasons to love Thailand. Here, we pick some of our favorites.

t Whether you want to scuba dive, party, or simply relax, Thailand has over 1,000 islands most of them tropical gems smothered in jungle and skirted by fine white sand.

DISCOVER Reasons to Love Thailand

t Ancient and contemporary Thai culture vibrantly blend in the , a center of endless markets, nightlife both raucous and refined, and some of the greatest monuments.

DISCOVER Reasons to Love Thailand

t The lifeblood of much of Southeast Asia, the mighty Mekong is best enjoyed on a long-tail boat trip from , winding past wooden riverfront houses.

DISCOVER Reasons to Love Thailand

t The is Thailands second city, but its a far cry from noisy Bangkok. Stroll down the temple-lined streets or embark on a cycling tour of the countryside.