Biking

Going on a tour by bicycle is probably one of the best ways to visit some of Thailand's important sites with the fun and adventure accompanied thereof. Mountain biking is cycling on off-track terrains and is a relatively new sport in Thailand, taken up by young international tourists and Thais.

Thailand's mountain biking routes are mainly located in national parks. The hilly north of Thailand is the most favourable site for biking. The best time to visit is between November to February when the weather is cooler.

A number of companies offer well-organised biking tours, with guides and back-up vehicles carrying food and overnight equipment. Bikes are also widely available in major tourist destinations, where they can be rented at extremely reasonable rates on a daily basis.

White Water Rafting

This activity is probably one of the best ways to experience Thailand's more pristine and relatively untouched rain forests and inaccessible waterfalls. Thrilling and mild white water rafting is available in Thailand.

Most white water rafting locations are within national parks but also in non-protected areas in Northern Thailand. The best time to experience white water rafting is during the rainy season starting in June until early October.

Bungee Jumping

The thrill of a bungee jump is definitely incomparable to anything on the planet. If hanging upside down on a cord is your thing then go for it.

So far, there are only 4 well-known bungee jumping locations in Thailand, though they are quite experienced in conducting this activity. Without a doubt this is a very dangerous sport and should not be endeavoured lightly.

Bungee jumping is best conducted during the cool season from November to January. Do avoid the rainy season during June to October when heavy rains are expected.

Bird Watching

Bird watching can be an interesting part of your trip if you intend to do some jungle trekking and camping. With 96 national parks, 48 wildlife sanctuaries and a numbers of non-hunting areas, watershed reserves, forest parks and biosphere reserves that have been protected by law, Thailand is one of the foremost destinations for bird watching where different variety of birds can be seen all year round at different points in time.

All the major national parks are the best destinations for bird watching in Thailand. Bird watching is one activity which can be held all year round. At different times of the year, different species and birds in the different stages of their journey make a pretty sight. But still, if you want to catch the best sightings, December to February is the best time. Not only resident species you can also look at migrating birds from northern Palearctic where the weather is reliably cool, with no rain.

Wind Surfing

Windsurfing has become one of Thailand's most popular water sports in the last two decades, and it is practiced all over Thailand's beaches. Wind-surfing is an excellent way to get fit, it is also quiet, non-polluting and environmentally friendly. It is a sport that enquires dexterity and coordination and also strength.

You can learn to windsurf on all major beaches in Phuket, Samui, Pattaya and Krabi, as well as on islands of Ko Tao and Ko Chang. Once you have mastered the basics, you'll find boards and sails available everywhere.

Don't go out to sea if the weather is threatening to turn stormy. You should wear a life jacket at all times. Beware of boats and swimmers on crowded stretches of water, especially when you are still learning how to handle your board and sail. It is easy to forget about the sun with the wind on your face, but it is especially strong when reflecting off the water all around you. So wear protective sun block.

Fishing

Thailand has some of the most exciting game fishing sites in Asia especially along the Andaman seacoast of Phuket and Krabi provinces. Marlin, sailfish, tuna, huge grouper and every kind of shark imaginable are a boat ride from shore. Phang-nga Bay plays host to some of the rarest species of aquatic life in the world, including the rare swimming iguana.

For game fishing, the twin islands of Racha Yai and Racha Noi, some 50 Minutes out of Phuket, offer some of the best local fishing. Sailfish, black, marlin, wahoo and tunas make this, along with excellent snorkelling, a good choice for the novice and experienced angler alike. Power boats are also available for chartering deep-sea fishing expedition out of the Andaman Sea resorts of Phuket and Krabi. Power cruises come fully equipped with fighting chairs and heavy tackle. For those who just want to go along for the ride, the scenery is as breathtaking as the activities.

Jet-Skiing

Major beaches in Samui, Phuket, Pattaya, Samet and Krabi offer the exhilaration of jet-skiing. Despite the speed, jet-skiing in Thailand is a safe sport.

As also, you have to be careful about the roaring waves around the bays and watch out for other sea traffic, especially swimmers and snorkellers. It's easy to forget that you're in the full force of the sun, so protect yourself beforehand.

Butterfly Watching

The kingdom of Thailand is alive with the fluttering brilliance of over 1,200 species of butterfly more than almost any country in the world. If you are out in the forest at night, you could well see the world's largest moth, spectacular for both its bold brown & cream markings and for its incredible eight inch wingspan.

Visit the World Heritage sites of Thung Yai Naresuan and Huai Kha Khaeng sanctuaries and you'll see the whole expanse of grassland shimmer with the vivid hues of these delicate creatures. Go to the mudflats and wetlands along the coast, particularly in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, you will find a totally different yet equally copious assortment of species.