From majestic shrines to serene temples and awe-inspiring natural landscapes, Thailand, the Land of Smiles, is rich with places considered holy and sacred. Spirituality is deeply personal, yet there is no denying that Thailand holds a reputation as one of the most spiritual destinations in Southeast Asia. With its plethora of remarkable temples, diverse religious beliefs, and numerous sacred sites, Thailand truly stands as a spiritual mecca.

Here are some must-visit places we recommend:

Bangkok: The city boasts an abundance of temples and religious sites, with an estimated thousands of Buddhist temples, possibly even reaching 40,000 in number!

Krabi: Home to one of Thailand’s most spiritual sites, the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea), this revered place was once believed to be the abode of a tiger. The temple, sitting at a 2,000-foot peak, houses a golden Buddha and requires a climb up jungle-surrounded stairs, offering a breathtaking spiritual experience.

Chiang Mai: With over 24 Buddhist temples in the city and numerous others surrounding it, Chiang Mai holds spiritual significance. The temple of Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon, situated atop Doi Inthanon mountain, within the Doi Suthep-Doi Pui National Park, is a renowned and deeply spiritual site dedicated to celebrating the late king’s 60th birthday.

Kanchanaburi: This place is steeped in spirituality due to its historical significance, including the infamous Death Railway and the River Kwai Bridge, built during World War II. The railway, a somber reminder of the past, now serves as a place of spiritual reflection for locals and tourists who pay their respects to the deceased. Tham Krasae Cave, housing an enshrined Buddha statue, is one such site where visitors come to pray and honor those who lost their lives during the construction of the railway.