Best October Travel Destinations in Thailand with Fun Activities

Where to travel in October? As we approach the end of the year, many are starting to plan trips to take in the cool breezes this October. For those looking for nearby destinations within Thailand, we have some fantastic recommendations for October trips along with a variety of fun activities. Get ready to pack your bags and embrace nature, book cheap flights, and stay in beautiful accommodations with Gother now!

Our first must-visit destination in October is Pang Ung. The scenery here is stunning, with a reservoir surrounded by pine forests and towering mountains. The atmosphere is perfect during the late rainy and early winter season. Camping enthusiasts shouldn't miss the chance to pitch a tent by the lakeside, spend a night, wake up to a beautiful sunrise, and enjoy the sight of swans gliding on the water.

The highlight activity is rafting through the mist that gently hovers over the water in the morning. Experience the romantic atmosphere reminiscent of Interlaken in Switzerland. Then, warm yourself up with a hot pot meal by the lake, while capturing the breathtaking reflection of the mountains in the clear water.

Coffee lovers shouldn't miss the chance to brew a fresh, hot cup of coffee right by the tent before embarking on the day's adventures. If you're not into brewing your own, stop by "Uncle Palah's Coffee House" in Ban Ruam Thai, where you can enjoy high-quality Arabica coffee grown and roasted by Uncle Palah himself. Before moving on to your next destination, let Gother’s KLUB community guide you through exciting coffee and tea workshops, helping you learn the skills to brew like a pro!

Spend the afternoon exploring Ban Ruam Thai, soaking in the 180-degree views of the lake and the pine forest. Don't forget to stop by the hanging bridge, another perfect photo spot.

As evening approaches, watch the sunset at Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, an ancient temple perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Mae Hong Son town from above. Get ready for another day of exploring Mae Hong Son.

A relaxing half-hour drive from Pang Ung will take you to Ban Rak Thai, another recommended October destination. This small village in Mae Hong Son resembles a traditional Chinese village in Yunnan, with houses built in ancient Chinese architecture and tea plantations surrounding the area. It feels like a close encounter with Chinese culture.

Stay overnight to fully immerse yourself in the charm of this little village. Start your morning with a leisurely walk, taking pictures of the clay houses and the beautiful lake view, with light mist floating over the water, creating a romantic atmosphere.

Then, head to a local restaurant to try the original Yunnan-style pork leg stew, served with hot Chinese tea to warm you up in the cool weather.

After a delicious breakfast, take a short hike up the hill for a bird’s-eye view of the village, capturing colorful landscapes. In the afternoon, visit the nearby tea plantation, where you can experience the life of the villagers who make a living growing and harvesting tea. Don’t miss the chance to sample the famous Oolong and white tea varieties, while taking pictures with the lush tea gardens as your backdrop.

End the day with a boat ride on the lake, enjoying the cool breeze and the sunset’s soft orange glow reflecting on the water. Ban Rak Thai is a place where you can experience the beauty of nature and the serenity of culture in one peaceful setting.

 

Where to stay in Mae Hong Son

For those still unsure where to travel in October, we recommend Kiriwong Village in Nakhon Si Thammarat, known for its slow-life vibe and some of the freshest air in Thailand. Let’s invite you to take a deep breath of fresh air and embrace the beautiful natural scenery of Kiriwong Village.

Start your trip with a refreshing morning at Kiriwong Bridge, the village’s famous landmark where everyone stops to take photos. The best time to visit is between 6:00 - 9:00 AM. The morning air is cool and fresh, and you’ll witness the serene mist hovering above the river and mountains in the area. This peaceful morning scene is perfect for photography and immersing yourself in nature. The spectacular view of the mountains and streams is a sight to behold. If you visit on a Monday or Friday morning, walk a little further to the Kiriwong Market, a small local market open from 5:00 AM until late morning. Sample traditional snacks served in banana leaves and experience the local way of life.

For a late breakfast, try the local favorite dishes at a nearby restaurant, including herbal rice salad and sour mangosteen fish curry, packed with authentic local flavors. Don’t forget to try the village’s signature dessert, Kiriwong Roti.

For those visiting Kiriwong during the tail end of the fruit season, we recommend visiting the village’s mixed fruit orchards, known locally as “Sum Rom Gardens,” to pick and enjoy the season’s best fruits. After filling up on fresh fruit, borrow a bicycle from your accommodation or rent one for 50 baht at Nai Thang's Kiriwong Cafe, a retro-style cafe near the market, and go for a ride around the village. Snap photos on the suspension bridge at Tha Ha, and if you pedal for about 15 minutes from Kiriwong Bridge, you’ll reach Wang Mai Pak Waterfall, where clear, cool water and schools of fish await you. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the village's tranquility before returning to your accommodation for a peaceful night’s sleep.

After a restful night, drive 40 minutes from the village to visit Wat That Noi, a temple known for housing the largest reclining Buddha in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Pay respects to the revered statue of "Luang Por Khlai Wajasit," a famous monk known for his holy words, believed to make anything he says come true. The life-sized statue of Luang Por Khlai, seated in a water-sprinkling pose, has water mist gently spraying down on visitors, as if he is blessing them. His undecayed remains are preserved in a glass coffin inside the pagoda at Wat That Noi, making it a must-visit site for those seeking spiritual blessings. Don’t forget to follow Gother's KLUB Mutelu for spiritual trips that open the door to positive energy in your life!

Where to stay in Nakhon Si Thammarat

If you only have one day to explore Sa Kaeo in October, we recommend a day trip that includes waterfalls, ancient temples, beautiful flowers, and stunning views. Let's start our journey through Sa Kaeo!

Begin your day at Prasat Sdok Kok Thom, the largest ancient stone temple in Eastern Thailand. Located near the Thai-Cambodian border, this historical site is full of rich history. Walk through the serene surroundings and take photos of the ancient temple under the soft morning light. Be sure to visit the on-site museum to learn about the history of the area, a perfect choice for history and culture enthusiasts. The best time to visit is between 8:00 - 10:00 AM, when the weather is cool and the sunlight is soft, making it ideal for both exploring and photography. Avoid visiting during the midday heat, especially in summer, as the high temperatures can make walking around less pleasant.

 

Next, drive about an hour to Pang Sida National Park, where you’ll immerse yourself in lush nature. A short walk from the parking lot leads to Pang Sida Waterfall, which cascades down a 10-meter cliff. During the rainy season, the waterfall is full, making it perfect for a refreshing dip. After the rain, butterflies flutter around, and the surrounding green forest makes you feel completely rejuvenated.

In the afternoon, recharge with lunch before heading to the next destination. After your meal, visit Wat Tham Khao Chakan, a beautiful temple set inside a limestone cave. Be prepared for a bit of a climb! The best time to visit Wat Tham Khao Chakan is in the morning (6:00 - 10:00 AM) when the air is still cool and refreshing, as you’ll be climbing up 300 stone steps and another 100 wooden steps to reach the viewpoint. Be cautious, as the path can be steep, and you might encounter monkeys along the way. At the top, the cave opens up to panoramic views, and the cool breeze feels refreshing. If you're into making merit, you can also offer alms at both the base and the top of the mountain.

After descending, relax with a refreshing drink or dinner at Wood House Khao Chakan, a cafe that offers views of a flower field and a stunning view of Khao Chakan. In the evening, the atmosphere is perfect, with the last light of the day slowly fading, and you might even spot bats flying out of the cave in search of food. For serious coffee lovers, head to Reply Coffee Roasters on the main road, just 15 minutes away. This cafe, located inside a PT gas station, offers a rich, aromatic coffee blend roasted in-house. For more unique coffee and tea experiences, follow Gother’s KLUB for coffee and tea enthusiasts, where we will introduce you to new flavors you’ve never experienced before.

Where to stay in Sa Kaeo

Lastly, we conclude our October travel recommendations in the northeast with Loei Province. Start your day with a spiritual visit to Phu Khor in Na Haeo District, where the "Naga Head Rock" is believed to bring wealth and prosperity. This site is particularly popular near mid-month and the end of the month, as many come to make offerings and leave with good fortune. If you're looking to catch the sunrise and sea of mist, arrive early in the morning and take a 15-minute ride up to the viewpoint, followed by a short 600-meter walk to Phii Khong Koi Cave. Afterward, you can offer prayers at the Naga Head Rock nearby. Leave with blessings for a prosperous future!

In the late morning, continue your spiritual journey at Wat Neramit Wipatsana, the only temple in Thailand built entirely from laterite stone. The unique architecture and local craftsmanship of the murals, which took over eight years to complete, are a sight to behold. Pay respects to the replica of Phra Buddha Chinnarat and visit the reliquary of the late Phra Kru Phawana Wisutyan, whose undecayed remains are enshrined here. Locals and tourists alike come to pay their respects.

In the afternoon, head to Suan Hin Pha Ngam, also known as the “Kunming of Thailand,” famous for its stunning limestone formations. Enjoy the cool breeze and nature’s beauty as you take photos surrounded by unique rock formations. Afterward, recharge with some local Isaan delicacies like sticky rice and spicy papaya salad at the nearby restaurant.

A short 5-minute drive will take you to Phu Pa Poh, the most famous viewpoint in the area and our final October destination. Here, you’ll find yourself admiring mountain views that resemble Mount Fuji, earning it the nickname “Loei’s Fuji.” Park at the visitor center and take a local tractor ride up to the four viewing points, each offering a progressively better view. If you’re feeling up to it, hike to the top for a thrilling ride on the swing overlooking the stunning landscape. End your day with a magical sunset to cap off a perfect October trip.

Where to travel in October? After going through our list of recommended October destinations, you should have plenty of ideas for your next trip. Whether it's lush forests, towering mountains, serene lakes, or beautiful temples, Thailand has it all. Ready? Pack your bags and head out with Gother!

 

Where to stay in Loei