Where to Travel in January? Top New Year Destinations in Thailand

Where to travel in January in Thailand? No need to travel abroad to have a fantastic time! January is the perfect month for adventure, both for Thai and international tourists. It’s a month to explore new places, whether you love listening to the waves on a beach, hiking in the mountains, eco-tourism, adventure sports, or underwater exploration. Whatever your travel style, January has everything you need. Want to go somewhere? Make it happen! This New Year, experience something unique with Gother.

Where to travel in January? Our first recommended January destination is Suan Ya Luang in Nan Province. Kick off the New Year in a cool, misty location surrounded by serene grasslands and breathtaking views. Time to hit the road! Be prepared for a bit of a rugged drive, as the route to Suan Ya Luang is steep, and only 4WD vehicles can make the journey. You can book a homestay with the locals, set up a tent at the campsite to stargaze under the Milky Way, or stay in the village of San Charoen below and hire a vehicle to watch the sunrise from the mountaintop.

Start your morning with a slow-life experience at Doi Suan Ya Luang viewpoint, about 4 kilometers from the accommodation on the hill. This spot is best visited in the early morning for a 360-degree view of coffee plantations and surrounding mountains. Watch the sunrise and thick sea of mist—it’s indescribably beautiful. Don’t forget your camera! For spiritual travelers, don’t miss the chance to pay respect to the Buddha Image of Blessing, located near the viewpoint’s peak, protecting the local residents of San Charoen village for many years.

Later in the morning, visit the coffee plantations, which are the highlight of this area. What was once an opium-growing region is now home to vast Arabica coffee farms, the locals’ primary source of income. You’ll learn about the coffee-growing and harvesting process directly from the villagers. While in San Charoen, don’t forget to try some drip coffee at La Pien Coffee, a local café that serves fresh coffee from Suan Ya Luang. Chat with “Khun Krit,” the skilled owner who brews the smoothest coffee and strives to produce eco-friendly beans. You can even buy some to take home. If you love the aroma of coffee and tea, make sure to follow Gother’s KLUB for Coffee and Tea Enthusiasts to join future drip coffee trips like this one.

If you’re staying in a homestay, dinner will consist of simple local dishes served on banana leaves, such as grilled fish, chili paste, boiled vegetables, and tasty soup made from fresh local ingredients. Enjoy your meal in a cozy atmosphere amidst the cool weather. For those seeking to stargaze under the Milky Way, this is one of Thailand’s best and clearest spots for doing so, but it’s usually most visible from late February onward, depending on the weather.

Where to stay in Nan

After heading north, let’s journey south! Another unseen January destination in the Andaman Sea is the Kam Islands in Ranong Province, a small group of islands that remains relatively untouched. It’s perfect for travelers seeking peace and quiet, with activities like beach lounging and exploring scenic viewpoints. Reaching the top of the viewpoints offers panoramic views of the sea and nearby islands. Book your flight and bring your camera—you’ll definitely want to capture the beauty of this New Year destination!

The Kam Islands include main islands like Koh Kam Yai and smaller ones like Koh Kam Nui, Koh Kam Tok, Japanese Island, and Bat Island. The standout feature is Ao Khao Kwai (Buffalo Bay), with its crescent-shaped white sand beach, crystal-clear blue waters, and beautiful pine trees. The area is peaceful and not overcrowded. Bat Island offers clear water with visible rocks and coral reefs below, making it a great snorkeling spot. If you snorkel here, you’ll encounter colorful coral reefs and clownfish living among the sea anemones.

Where to travel in January? After exploring the islands, don’t miss visiting Laem Son National Park, which has stunning beaches, large pine forests, and beautiful diving spots. The park offers a peaceful and cool atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a sunset in the evening. Camping enthusiasts can also set up tents and spend the night surrounded by nature. Just remember to bring your own food, as there are no restaurants within the park. You can rent a local boat to explore the surrounding islands all day.

Another destination is the Kra Buri River National Park, a relaxed New Year spot located in northern Ranong. A must-visit is Khao Khao Ma Viewpoint, which offers million-dollar views of Myanmar and a quirky glass-walled bathroom with a panoramic view. Before leaving Ranong, don’t forget to try the famous Thap Li Steamed Buns, soft and juicy with an intense flavor, paired with hot Chinese tea at the Han Yok Yuan restaurant.

Where to stay in Ranong

Let’s continue to Phetchaburi! Where to travel in January? Whether you’re a laid-back traveler or an adventure-seeker, Phetchaburi has something great for you to enjoy all day long.

In Phetchaburi, one of the most popular January destinations is Cha-am Beach, perfect for a relaxing getaway. It’s just a short drive from Bangkok. Check into one of the hotels for a night and enjoy sitting by the beach, taking in the cool sea breeze. If you’re there on a weekend, you can spend the late morning strolling through the Kwangchow Floating Market, a serene riverside market with a natural atmosphere. It feels like a floating market nestled in a forest. Take the family for a leisurely lunch by the water, sampling dishes like Karen-style rice wrapped in banana leaves, pad thai, and forest coffee. The market is also pet-friendly, so it’s a great spot for travelers bringing their furry friends along. Don’t miss trying food served in bamboo containers—delicious and eco-friendly! Before leaving, take the kids to the Cha-am Camel Republic to meet and feed some cute animals, with opportunities to ride camels as well.

For adventurers, besides the relaxing January spots mentioned above, consider starting the New Year with a thrilling white-water rafting trip at Kaeng Krachan. The 6-8 kilometer rafting route is not too challenging and suitable for all ages. After rafting, head off-road to camp overnight at Phanoen Thung for cool mountain air and a morning sea of mist. If you’re lucky, you might spot bears, porcupines, gibbons, hornbills, or even flocks of butterflies ready for a photo op. Phanoen Thung offers full facilities, including bathrooms, shops, and restaurants.

Before wrapping up your trip, don’t forget to visit Khao Luang Cave, one of Phetchaburi’s sacred spots. Getting there requires some stamina, as you need to walk up and down steep stairs. The cave’s open ceiling lets sunlight stream in, creating stunning photo opportunities. For the best lighting, visit between 10:00 and 11:00 AM.

Lastly, for spiritual travelers, stop by Wat Tham Jaeng near Cha-am Camel Republic. It’s home to Thailand’s largest Naga statue, standing over 31 meters tall. It’s believed that those who pray here for wealth and success will have their wishes fulfilled. Don’t forget to write your wish on a red cloth and tie it to the statue to ask for blessings from the Naga spirit. For more spiritual travel tips, follow Gother’s KLUB Mutelu for insider content.

Where to stay in Phetchaburi

Where to travel in January in Chanthaburi? Let’s explore this beautiful New Year destination in just one day! Start your day at Chanthaboon Waterfront Community, a historic riverside neighborhood that’s great for a casual stroll and photo ops with old wooden houses. The community has preserved its old architecture and wall art for tourists to enjoy. There’s even a century-old streetlight—the last of its kind in Chanthaburi. Don’t forget to cool off with a rocket popsicle and sample Chanthaburi’s crispy rice cakes. Recharge with some caffeine and sweet treats at C.A.P Coffee, a local favorite known for its strong coffee and donuts.

From the waterfront, continue your trip to Wat Phai Lom, a must-visit January destination for paying respects and making merit at the start of the year. This 200-year-old temple houses the largest reclining Buddha in eastern Thailand. If you were born on a Tuesday, visiting this Buddha is said to bring extra blessings. Visitors can also participate in the traditional practice of placing gold leaf on the sacred boundary stones of the temple.

After making merit, drive just 15 minutes to SUP Addict Chanthaburi at Nong Bua Riverside Community. This serene spot offers a blend of nature and local culture. Don’t worry if you’re new to paddleboarding; the staff will guide you through the basics. Once you hit the water, you’ll paddle past mangrove forests and old houses, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a red hawk flying by. The atmosphere is amazing! After paddleboarding, head to the local market to try Nam Mapeed juice and traditional Chanthaburi desserts like Monkey Balls, Lover’s Fate, and Jia Yiao Toad Cakes. You’ll also find great spots for street art photos along the way.

When hunger strikes, head to Mae Aroon Si Restaurant! Chanthaburi is famous for its seafood, and this place serves fresh dishes with a killer seafood sauce. Must-try items include Three Musketeers Garlic Stir-fry, Salted Egg Stir-fried Squid, and Two Buddy Sour Curry—so delicious you’ll want seconds!

After lunch, a quick 10-minute drive will take you to Ao Khung Kraben for breathtaking views. It’s perfect for families, with a wooden walkway through the mangroves, kayak rentals, and educational exhibits about marine ecosystems. Families interested in eco-friendly activities should follow Gother’s KLUB Family for more fun ideas.

End your day with a sunset visit to Wat Hua Laem Chedi, a 200-year-old white and gold stupa standing on a rock in the middle of the sea. You can walk across a wooden bridge to get closer and watch the beautiful sunset. It’s recommended to visit after 4:30 PM to avoid the heat. Don’t forget to buy local specialties like black pepper, palm sugar, and seasonal fruits like durian and mangosteen before you leave!

Where to stay in Chanthaburi

Where to travel in January? Another excellent New Year destination with good weather and plenty of activities is Nong Khai. Start your day early at the Phothai Morning Market. We’ll take you to Kua Jab Golan, a famous local noodle shop known for its rich broth, tender noodles, crispy pork, and soft offal. It’s so delicious you’ll want a second helping. For those who love spicy food, add a sprinkle of chili powder and vinegar for a kick! Be sure to visit early in the morning, as the shop opens at 5:00 AM and sells out by noon.

After breakfast, head over to the Sunflower Fields of Hat Kham to snap some photos. This vast sunflower field, with over 12,000 flowers spread across 8 rai, is a stunning sight as the golden flowers bloom under the morning sun. The best time to visit is early morning to avoid the crowds and catch the flowers glowing in the golden light. The sunflowers bloom from late January through April, so don’t forget to wear bright colors for perfect photos!

Late in the morning, visit Sala Keoku, also known as Wat Khaek, an extraordinary religious park in Nong Khai. The park is filled with giant, surreal concrete statues of Buddha, gods, mythical creatures, and imaginative beings. Wander around and take in the awe-inspiring sculptures. The sheer size and mystique of the statues will leave you feeling humbled and amazed. Don’t forget to feed the fish or release some fish as an act of merit!

After lunch, take a scenic drive to Wat Phra That Khaen Si, home to the famous Skywalk at Phu Tok. This glass bridge juts out over the cliff, giving visitors a panoramic view of the Mekong River and Laos beyond. The views are simply breathtaking! For those afraid of heights, you can admire the views from the nearby lookout points. Don’t forget to visit the temple and pay respects to the reclining Buddha before heading down.

If you’re visiting on a Saturday, end your day with a stroll at the Nong Khai Walking Street Market along the Mekong River from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The atmosphere is fantastic, with cultural performances on stage and plenty of local delicacies to try, like Nong Khai’s coconut pancakes and Wichianburi grilled chicken. Be sure to pick up some local specialties like Nong Khai fermented fish, crispy banana chips, and colorful local fabrics to take home as souvenirs.

Where to stay in Nong Khai

Activities in Nong Khai

Where to travel in January? Our last January destination in this article takes the whole family to Saraburi! If you’re looking for a New Year trip for the kids, head to Uncle Chris’s Farm, a beautiful green space where children can learn about and appreciate nature while breathing fresh air. There are plenty of activities, including exploring the world of insects, firefly watching, horseback riding, forest walks, and hands-on art workshops. Families can even camp overnight to stargaze and enjoy the cool weather.

As outdoor adventures make the best classrooms for kids, families seeking such experiences should follow Gother’s KLUB Family for more trips that will inspire kids to learn from the world around them.

The next morning, fuel up with some of Saraburi’s famous boat noodles. We recommend Ekaros Noodle Shop, serving up beef and pork noodles with a rich, flavorful broth and tender, chewy noodles—a must-visit spot for noodle lovers!

Next up, stop by the Thai-Danish Dairy Farm, where kids can get hands-on experience with dairy farming. They’ll see the entire process of milking cows, and they can even feed baby calves themselves! The farm also offers tours of the scenic pastures and herds of cows. Before leaving, be sure to sample the farm’s fresh dairy products, including milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream—delicious and healthy!
 

For a sweet treat, head to Saithong Farm, known for its organic mulberry orchards. Visitors can pick fresh mulberries straight from the tree, and if you’re lucky, the farm owner might share tips on growing mulberries. Try mulberry tea with crispy biscuits or mulberry jam on toast—delicious and wholesome! If you love the taste, don’t forget to buy some mulberry juice, jam, wine, or fresh berries to take home.

End your trip with a refreshing dip at Jet Sawan Noi Waterfall, one of the best January destinations, thanks to its cool, abundant water and lush surroundings. The waterfall cascades over seven tiers, creating a picture-perfect scene. There’s a wide lawn for picnicking, and you can spend the night at the nearby campground, complete with starry skies and a serene natural atmosphere—perfect for family trips!

Where to stay in Saraburi

Activities in Saraburi

Wondering where to travel in January? This list of January destinations recommended by Gother should inspire you to explore. Pick a trip that speaks to you and follow our itinerary—your travels will be worthwhile! Don’t forget to take lots of photos and create memories to share with your friends, showing them just how much fun your New Year trip was!