Top 4 Places to Visit in Thailand for Backpackers

Thailand is easily one of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia, thanks to a well-deserved reputation as a veritable party hub, tropical delight and backpackers’ haven. But there’s more to this fascinating country than party-hopping and beach-bumming.

So let’s talk about having a balanced experience for backpackers in Thailand, shall we?

Let Your Hair Down in Koh Phangan

Well you can’t visit Thailand without indulging in the party culture, can you?

The island capital of the (in)famous Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan is all about luscious beaches and loud, loud music. Think beaches lined with alcohol vendors and crackling fireworks displays - in sync with the electronic beats belted out by the DJ. During peak seasons, the parties draw crowds of 20,000-30,000 people.

Don’t worry if you can’t fit your schedule around the Full Moon Party; there are loads of Half Moon, Quarter Moon and Black Moon parties happening for the backpackers in Bangkok. You’re bound to stumble upon one of them.

Quick Tip: If you’re looking for a low-key destination, Koh Phangan is not it.

Swim With the Fishes in Koh Tao

If you’ve had enough of the partying, take a ferry to Koh Tao, about 45 kilometre north of Koh Phangan.

Koh Tao is definitely one of the more offbeat venues in Thailand, and a great tonic after the shot-downing fiesta you’ve had in Koh Phangan. The island itself is pretty small, only 21 square kilometre, but it packs quite a punch.

The turquoise waters along the shores are simply begging to be explored, so go to the nearest diving centre (plenty of those around) and sign yourself up. Snorkeling and scuba diving are two of the most popular activities here so pick one and go under.

The funky vibe of the island is complemented by the hordes of beach bars nestled upon the palm-fringed beachfronts. Plenty of budget hotels and hostels dot the area, so it’ll pay to do a bit of research to get the best price.

Quick Tip: If you’re planning on diving, have a word with your diving instructor and he’ll probably give you a sweet deal on accommodation.     

Clamber Up the Cliffs at Railay

Adventure junkies, take note! If diving, jungle treks, hiking and rock climbing appeal to you, Railay is the place to be.

Located just south of Krabi, Railay is truly a sight for sore eyes. Gargantuan limestone cliffs jut out against the backdrop of the pale-blue waters and hut-lined beaches. Railay also has the distinction of having some of Thailand’s most spectacular beaches.

Quick Tip: The budget for adventure activities won’t burn holes in your pockets, provided you stay away from the tourist traps and throw in a few Thai words while bargaining. Planning a bagpacker's trip to Bangkok just turned into more fun.

Catch Up On Some P&Q at Koh Lanta

‘P&Q’ here means ‘Peace and Quiet’. God knows you need that after all that partying, diving, climbing and other shenanigans you’ve engaged in.

It would be wise to combine your trip to Railay and Koh Lanta, since they’re only about 50 km apart.

Koh Lanta is the perfect foil to Koh Phangan. While the latter boasts enormous sound systems and multiple parties happening within gate-crashing distance, the former counters with idyllic coves and sprawling beaches with not a soul in sight. An excellent base for backpackers in Thailand, to be sure.

Quick Tip: Rent a motorbike or moped and explore the island. You’re likely to come across a secluded cove where you can lie down and catch up on some reading with a spectacular sunset stretching out before you.

Now all you need is a pseudo-philosophical book extrapolating the meaning of life and what not.