Thailand, Asia
Bangkok is ringed by the older Thailand the capital grew out of. A ruined royal capital, the floating markets, a WWII river town, and the tallest stupa in the world are all inside about three hours.
| Where | Getting there | Why go |
|---|---|---|
| Ayutthaya | About 1.5 hr by train from Krung Thep Aphiwat station | The ruined former Siamese capital, a UNESCO park of brick temple towers and the famous Buddha head held in tree roots. Hire a bicycle or a tuk-tuk for the day. |
| Amphawa and Damnoen Saduak | About 1.5 hr by road | The floating markets west of the city. Damnoen Saduak is the big photogenic one, Amphawa is the more local weekend market with an evening firefly boat ride. |
| Kanchanaburi | About 2.5 hr by road or the scenic train | The Bridge over the River Kwai and the Death Railway, with the WWII cemeteries and museums. Often paired with Erawan waterfall. |
| Nakhon Pathom | About 1 hr by train | Home of Phra Pathom Chedi, the tallest Buddhist stupa in the world, ringed by a busy temple market. |