Thailand is a popular tourist destination for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and mouth-watering cuisine. But beyond that, Thailand is a popular tourist destination for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and mouth-watering cuisine. But beyond the well-known attractions lies a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This article will explore some of Thailand’s surprising and unusual sights worth visiting.
Unusual Nature Sights
Thailand’s natural beauty is one of the biggest draws for tourists, and the country is home to some unique natural sights you won’t find anywhere else. These sights are so rare that they might sound like the stuff of myth and legend.
First up, we have the Bo Sang Umbrella Village in Chiang Mai. This village is famous for its handcrafted umbrellas and parasols using traditional techniques. Visitors can watch the artisans at work, and if you’re feeling daring, you can even try making one of your own. Or if you’re anything like me, you’ll probably end up with a convoluted mess and buy one from the shop instead.
Next on our list is the Giant Rafflesia Flower. This rare flower can only be found in certain parts of Thailand and is the largest flower in the world, growing up to three feet in diameter. You might think seeing a giant flower would be easy, but trust me, it’s not. The flower is so rare that spotting it feels like finding a needle in a haystack. But if you’re lucky enough to come across one, you’ll be rewarded with a unique sight.
Last but not least, we have the Sticky Waterfall in Chiang Mai. This waterfall is unlike any other, thanks to the unique texture of the water. Visitors can climb up the rocks without slipping, which makes for a fun and unusual experience. It’s like climbing up a sticky wall, except a waterfall. Don’t worry; you won’t get stuck like a fly on a strip of tape.
Quirky Museums
Thailand has various museums, from traditional art and history museums to more unusual offerings. Here are a few of the latter:
First up, we have the Sirindhorn Dinosaur Museum in Kalasin. This museum is dedicated to studying dinosaurs and 
features fossils, models, and interactive exhibits that will appeal to visitors of all ages. You’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time to the land of the dinosaurs.
Next on our list is the Forensic Museum in Bangkok. This museum displays the forensic evidence used to solve crimes in Thailand. Visitors can see everything from weapons to clothing to human remains. It’s like CSI in real life but without the cheesy one-liners.
Lastly, we have the Escher Museum of Optical Illusions in Pattaya. This museum features the work of M.C. Escher, a Dutch artist known for his mind-bending optical illusions. Visitors can explore rooms that seem to defy gravity and perception. You’ll feel like you’ve entered a psychedelic world where nothing is as it seems.
Unusual Temples
Thailand is known for its beautiful and ornate temples, but a few stand out for their unusual features. Here are three that are worth a visit:
First up, we have the White Temple in Chiang Rai. This temple is a modern take on traditional Thai architecture and features Superman, Batman, and Hello Kitty murals alongside more traditional religious imagery. It’s like a mash-up of pop culture and religion, and it strangely works.
Next on our list is the Black Temple in Chiang Rai. This more dreadful temple features art made from animal bones and skulls. It’s a unique and haunting sight that will stick with visitors long after they leave. It’s like walking into a horror film but without the jump scares.
Last, we have the Wat Rong Khun, or the “White Temple,” in Chiang Mai. This temple is unlike any other, featuring a dazzling white exterior with intricate glasswork and mirrored mosaics. Visitors can walk through a bridge over a pit of hands reaching out from hell, symbolizing the difficulties in reaching heaven. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale but with a dark twist.
Unusual Festivals
Thailand is famous for its festivals, but a few are more unusual than others. Here is a couple that you won’t find anywhere else:
First up, we have the Monkey Buffet Festival in Lopburi. This festival involves feeding the town’s monkeys with a buffet of fruits, vegetables, and other treats. It’s a sight as hundreds of monkeys descend upon the feast. Just keep your distance, as these monkeys can get pretty rowdy.
Next on our list is the Vegetarian Festival in Phuket. This festival involves participants abstaining from meat and other vices for nine days. It culminates in a parade where participants pierce their cheeks with various objects, including knives, skewers, and even bicycles. It’s a bizarre and gruesome sight but also a fascinating glimpse into the country’s culture and traditions.
Conclusion
Thailand is a country full of surprises; these hidden gems are just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you’re interested in nature, museums, temples, or festivals, there’s something here for everyone. So, the next time you find yourself in Thailand, venture off the beaten path and discover the country’s unique and unusual sights. Who knows, you might find your new favourite destination.