Discover a different side of Thailand, where scenic road trips, luxurious glamping and nature-based adventures offer a refreshing alternative to the usual beach holiday.

Thailand has long been a popular holiday destination for Australians, thanks to its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. But away from the well-known tourist attractions, a completely different side of Thailand awaits discovery.

More and more travelers are swapping hotel pools for luxury tents, organized tours for self-drive adventures, and bustling beaches for mist-shrouded mountain landscapes. From winding mountain roads and lush national parks to exclusive glamping resorts, Thailand offers numerous opportunities to travel off the beaten track – without sacrificing comfort.

The ultimate road trip through Thailand: The Mae Hong Son tour

For travelers who love the freedom of the open road, the Mae Hong Son round trip in northern Thailand is one of the most spectacular driving routes in the country.

The approximately 600-kilometer-long circular route begins and ends in Chiang Mai and winds its way through more than a thousand curves, past rice terraces, forested mountains and charming towns shaped by Shan culture.

Most travelers plan three to five days for the tour and stop in Pai, known for its relaxed cafes, markets and mountain scenery, before continuing on to Mae Hong Son, where temples overlook mist-shrouded valleys.

The return journey via Mae Sariang offers even more beautiful landscapes, hospitable locals and authentic northern Thai cuisine.

For Australian travelers accustomed to good road trips, the Mae Hong Son round trip offers all the ingredients for an unforgettable driving holiday – spectacular landscapes, fascinating cultural encounters and numerous opportunities to stop and explore.

Khao Yai: Nature, wine and glamping

Located just a few hours' drive from Bangkok, Khao Yai offers a completely different experience than Thailand's bustling capital.

At its heart is Khao Yai National Park, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage-listed forest complex and home to wild elephants, hornbills, gibbons and an extraordinary variety of wildlife.

The surrounding countryside has become one of Thailand's leading destinations for boutique accommodation, wineries, farm experiences and luxury camping.

Visitors can spend their days exploring scenic country roads, tasting wines in the PB Valley, enjoying regional cuisine and observing wildlife in the national park before retiring to a comfortable glamping tent under the starry sky.

It is an attractive option for couples, families and nature lovers who want to combine outdoor adventures with a little indulgence.

Glamping with Thai flair

Forget simple tents and sleeping bags. Thailand's growing glamping scene offers the atmosphere of camping with many of the amenities of a boutique hotel.

In the Khao Yai area, accommodations such as The Wild Khao Yai and SOL Glamping offer stylish tent accommodations, retreats overlooking the forest, and vintage-style caravans with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and mountain views.

Further south lies Khao Sok National Park, known for its ancient rainforest, towering limestone formations, and the spectacular Cheow Lan Lake. Here, travelers can stay in jungle camps or floating accommodations amidst breathtaking scenery.

In northern Thailand, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai also offer luxury tented camps that serve as a base for exploring mountain villages, hiking trails and coffee plantations.

For Australians seeking a nature-based holiday with a touch of luxury, glamping offers an exciting opportunity to experience Thailand's landscapes beyond the beach.

Discover Thailand sustainably

Thailand's growing interest in outdoor adventures also reflects a broader trend towards more sustainable and meaningful travel experiences.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) encourages visitors to discover lesser-known destinations, support local communities, and explore the country's remarkable natural heritage responsibly.

The platform “Travel Green Thailand” highlights environmentally friendly travel destinations, community-oriented tourism experiences and practical ways for travelers to contribute to protecting the environment.

Around Khao Yai, attractions such as the Khao Yai Art Forest combine contemporary art with the natural environment, offering another way to experience the landscape and creative culture of the region.

Choosing locally owned accommodation, visiting community tourism projects, and spending more time exploring regional destinations can help spread the benefits of tourism beyond Thailand's busiest holiday hotspots.

Are you planning your own Thailand adventure?

For Australians who want to explore Thailand beyond beaches and cities, a self-drive tour is a great way to discover the country's diverse landscapes.

For road trip novices, a two- or three-day trip from Bangkok to Khao Yai is a good option, combining encounters with wildlife, visits to wineries and luxurious glamping.

Adventurous travelers can take four or five days to explore the Mae Hong Son round trip from Chiang Mai, discovering mountain villages, temples and spectacular viewpoints along the way.

The cooler months from November to February are particularly well-suited for exploring northern Thailand, offering pleasant temperatures and stunning mountain scenery. However, travelers should check the seasonal air quality beforehand, especially during the forest fire season in the north.

Australians who wish to travel by car should obtain an appropriate international driving permit before departure, ensure they have the correct driving license and insurance, and familiarize themselves with the local road conditions.

Whether you explore mist-shrouded mountains, sleep under the stars in a luxury tent, or discover a quiet country road – Thailand proves that sometimes the journey itself is the highlight of the holiday.

Ready to discover a different side of Thailand? Visit Amazing Thailand for more inspiration and start planning your next adventure.

Adapted from the original article by the Tourism Authority of Thailand “Stylish off the beaten track in Thailand”, published on August 25, 2026.