Unique from the rest of Thailand both culturally and linguistically, Northern Thailand is a diverse region that has been a tourist hotspot since the 1970s.
Explore: Chiang Mai • Chiang Rai • Mae Hong Son • Mae Sai • Nakhon Sawan • Nan • Pai • Phitsanulok • Sukhothai
- Chiang Mai: The largest city in the north, known for its old-city temples.
- Chiang Rai: The access point for the Golden Triangle.
- Mae Hong Son: A picturesque little town with lush valleys.
- Mae Sai: Northernmost city in Thailand and border crossing town to Burma.
- Nakhon Sawan: One of the regions larger cities.
- Nan: Former capital of a small kingdom, filled with history and temples, and surrounded by mountains.
- Pai: A laid-back backpacker atmosphere and a good starting point for trekking tours.
- Phitsanulok: A favorite overnight stop between Bangkok and Chiang Mai and gateway to Sukhothai historical park.
- Sukhothai: Thailand’s ‘original’ capital, now famed for its ancient ruins.
The cooler climate of mountainous Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Provinces and the ethnic diversity of the area established it as a favorite trekking area, with the capital cities of the aforementioned provinces providing charming launching points for excursions into more remote provinces, including the popular Mae Hong Son Province.
Northern Thailand is a region on immense historical importance, as the first Thai kingdoms, including Lan Na (Lanna) were established here. There are hundreds of fascinating ancient ruins spread across the region that can be appreciated while sampling traditional Thai culture, and looking for exotic wildlife in some of Thailand’s most pristine forests.
Inhabited by colorful ethnic minority groups such as the Akha, Lisu, Hmong, Karen, and Lahu, the mountainous North offers visitors endless opportunities to interact with these groups and learn of their traditional clothing, culture, and language. Trekking to hill tribe villages is, for many, a highlight of a trip to Thailand.
Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand and the region’s trekking center, with dozens of travel operators here organizing one to three-day treks. Trekking agents typically take tourists to neighboring provinces to appreciate the scenic views and spend a night at a hill tribe village. Elephant riding is often included, though the quality of such treks and the treatment they provide their elephants varies greatly -an unfortunate consequence of the popularity of the pasttime.
Other trekking bases include Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Pai, Nan, and Soppong, each of which is worth visiting in itself. The North also has an abundance of national parks with six individual parks in Nan province alone. For nature lovers, Northern Thailand can be a rewarding destination to spend time camping in the hinterland.
Adventure activities have become increasingly popular in Northern Thailand over the last decade, with white water rafting, elephant riding and rock climbing among the activities available. Alternative pursuits are popular in Pai, which has developed into one of the North’s key destinations for hammock-resting, leisurely bike rides, and yoga.
For temples, Chiang Mai is perhaps the best city to visit yet most provincial capitals in the North have a selection of temples worth visiting. Not just for temple-hoppers, Chiang Mai is also a centre for cooking, Thai language, and traditional Thai massage schools.
Boasting modern conveniences in most of its cities, Northern Thailand has good tourist infrastructure, making it easy to explore. Despite drawing large tourist crowds in the most popular cities, it is never difficult to get off the beaten path and out into the little explored wilderness.
Where to Go
Highlights
- Chiang Mai: Known for its ancient temples, vibrant markets, and the stunning Doi Suthep.
- Chiang Rai: Famous for the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Golden Triangle.
- Pai: A laid-back town with hot springs, waterfalls, and a vibrant backpacker scene.
- Mae Hong Son: Known for its picturesque landscapes, hill tribe villages, and the Mae Hong Son Loop.
- Doi Inthanon National Park: Features Thailand’s highest peak, stunning waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
- Sukhothai: Home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sukhothai Historical Park, with its ancient ruins and temples.
- Lampang: Known for its horse-drawn carriages, historical architecture, and the beautiful Wat Phra That Lampang Luang.
- Nan: A tranquil town with a rich history, beautiful temples, and scenic landscapes.
- Phrae: Offers charming teak houses, traditional crafts, and the unique Phae Mueang Phi forest park.
- Chiang Dao: Famous for its limestone caves, serene hot springs, and the towering Doi Chiang Dao mountain.
- Doi Ang Khang: A mountain resort area known for its cool climate, beautiful gardens, and hill tribe villages.
- Phayao: A serene town by the picturesque Kwan Phayao lake, known for its peaceful ambiance and local culture.
Top Cities
- Chiang Mai: A cultural hub in northern Thailand, famous for its ancient temples, vibrant night markets, and mountainous surroundings.
- Chiang Rai: Known for the striking White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and its rich Lanna heritage.
- Mae Hong Son: A serene town surrounded by misty mountains, known for its hill tribe cultures and picturesque landscapes.
- Mae Sai: The northernmost town in Thailand, popular for its bustling border market with Myanmar.
- Nakhon Sawan: Often called the “Gateway to the North,” known for its scenic rivers and the beautiful Bueng Boraphet.
- Nan: A charming town with a rich history, stunning temples, and a laid-back atmosphere.
- Pai: A bohemian village in the mountains, famous for its natural hot springs, waterfalls, and relaxed vibe.
- Phitsanulok: Known for Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, home to one of Thailand’s most revered Buddha images.
- Sukhothai: Famous for the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the ruins of the ancient Thai capital.
National Parks
- Doi Inthanon National Park: Host to Thailand’s highest mountain.
- Doi Suthep-Pui National Park: Countless waterfalls and home to one of the country’s most sacred temples.
- Doi Khuntan National park: Forests, wildlife, and the longest rail tunnel in the country.
- Ob Luang National Park: Best known for its interesting rock formations.
- Huai Nam Dung National Park: Warm up at Bong Duat hot spring.
- Doi Luang National Park: Waterfalls and mountains dominate this scenic park.
Other Popular Destinations
- Doi Ang Khang: Mountain resort northwest of Chiang Mai.
- Doi Tung: Royal villas and a mountaintop temple with stunning views and (so they say) the Buddha’s collarbone.
- Golden Triangle: A bit of a tourist trap, but the opium museums are worth a visit.
- Mae Sai: Thailand’s northernmost town, daytrips to Burma.
- Mae Salong: Founded by Chinese Nationalists who fled their homeland after defeat.
- Thaton: Small village with good guesthouses.
Destinations
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Chiang Mai Province: The North’s main hub, Chiang Mai is popular with trekkers and culture enthusiasts
- Chiang Mai: A vibrant city known for its ancient temples, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage.
- Chiang Dao: Famous for its limestone caves, serene hot springs, and the towering Doi Chiang Dao mountain.
- Doi Ang Khang: A picturesque mountain resort area known for its cool climate, beautiful gardens, and hill tribe villages.
- Ban Tawai: Renowned as Thailand’s premier handicraft village, famous for its extensive array of handmade furniture, carvings, and home decor items.
- Mae Chaem: A tranquil district known for its traditional way of life, rice terraces, and proximity to Doi Inthanon National Park.
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Chiang Rai Province: Bordering Myanmar and home to colorful hill tribes. Popular spots include Chiang Rai city and the Golden Triangle.
Ban Thoet Thai • Chiang Khong • Chiang Rai • Chiang Saen • Doi Tung • Mae Sai • Mae Salong • Sop Ruak
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Kamphaeng Phet Province: Features UNESCO-protected historical sites dating to the Sukhothai era.
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Lampang Province: Tour the main town by horse-drawn cart or spend the night on a raft at Kiu Lom Dam. Popular spots include the Thai Elephant Conservation Center.
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Lamphun Province: Pretty, laid back province with a moated, provincial town that is one of the oldest in Thailand
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Mae Hong Son Province: This hilly province boasts caves, mud baths, and hot springs. Popular spots include Tam Lod, Mae Sariang and Pai.
Mae Aw • Mae Hong Son • Mae La-Na • Mae Sariang • Pai • Soppong • Tham Lot • Tham Pla National Park
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Nan Province: Ideal for visitors wanting to get off the beaten tourist path
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Phayao Province: Best known for its lake where picnics are the order of the day. Popular spots include Phayao Lake.
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Phetchabun Province: Little visited province with the usual array of temples and parks.
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Phichit Province: Famous for its crocodiles farms, some of which are open to tourists.
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Phitsanulok Province: The modern provincial city here is one of Thailand’s largest, but there are four national parks if bustle isn’t what you’re after.
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Phrae Province: This so far unspoiled gem is slowly making its way onto the tourist radar
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Sukhothai Province: Home to the remains of the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom, a must-visit destination. Popular spots include Sukhothai Historical Park.
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Tak Province: Busting border markets filled with both Burmese and Thai traders.
Lan Sang National Park • Mae Sot • Tak • Taksin Maharat National Park • Umphang • Waley
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Uttaradit Province: Bordering with Laos, home to the globe’s highest teak tree, more popular with domestic tourists than foreigners.
When to Go
The best time to visit Northern Thailand is during the cool season, from November to February. The weather is pleasantly cool, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and cooler nights, especially in the mountainous areas. This period is ideal for outdoor activities, trekking, and exploring the region’s cultural and natural attractions. The cool season also coincides with several major festivals, such as Loy Krathong and the Flower Festival in Chiang Mai.
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Hot Season: (March to May) - The hot season in Northern Thailand lasts from March to May, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). While it can be quite hot, this is still a good time to visit if you can handle the heat. The hot season is less crowded, and you can find good deals on accommodations and tours. Activities such as visiting waterfalls, enjoying indoor attractions, and exploring higher altitude areas like Doi Inthanon can help you stay cool.
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Rainy Season: (June to October) - The rainy season, from June to October, brings frequent but usually brief downpours. The region becomes lush and green, with waterfalls and rivers at their most impressive. While travel can be more challenging due to occasional flooding and muddy trails, the rainy season offers a quieter, more serene experience. The reduced number of tourists means you can enjoy popular sites without the crowds. September and October, in particular, see the heaviest rainfall, so plan accordingly.
Festivals & Events
- Loy Krathong: (November) - A beautiful festival where people float decorated baskets on waterways to honor the water spirits and make wishes.
- Yi Peng Lantern Festival: (November) - Celebrated alongside Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai, with thousands of lanterns released into the sky, creating a magical sight.
- Songkran: (April) - The Thai New Year water festival known for its massive, fun water fights in the streets.
- Chiang Mai Flower Festival: (February) - A vibrant celebration featuring elaborate floral floats, beauty contests, and flower displays.
- Bo Sang Umbrella Festival: (January) - A unique festival in Bo Sang village celebrating traditional handcrafted umbrellas with parades, dances, and exhibitions.
- Inthakin City Pillar Festival: (May) - A religious festival in Chiang Mai where locals make offerings to the city pillar to bring good fortune.
- Lanna Rocket Festival: (May) - A traditional festival in Yasothon where large homemade rockets are launched to encourage rainfall for the upcoming rice season.
- Loy Krathong Sai Festival: (November) - In Tak, locals float thousands of coconut shell krathongs with candles on the Ping River, creating a stunning spectacle.
- Sukhothai Historical Park Light and Sound Show: (Various dates) - A mesmerizing show featuring historical reenactments, traditional music, and illuminated ancient ruins.
- Poi Sang Long Festival: (March/April) - A Shan Buddhist ordination ceremony in Mae Hong Son where young boys dress as princes before becoming novice monks.
- Doi Saket Songkran Festival: (April) - A unique celebration in Doi Saket with traditional water pouring ceremonies and cultural performances.
- Poy Luang Festival: (February/March) - A traditional Lanna festival in Lamphun with parades, cultural shows, and religious ceremonies.
- Chiang Mai Jazz Festival: (January) - An annual event featuring local and international jazz musicians performing in various venues around Chiang Mai.
- Golden Triangle Elephant Festival: (February) - A festival in Chiang Saen celebrating the cultural significance of elephants with parades, shows, and elephant rides.
Things to Do
Cultural Experiences
- Explore the Temples of Chiang Mai: Visit iconic temples such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phra Singh, showcasing beautiful Lanna architecture.
- Sukhothai Historical Park: Discover the ancient ruins of Thailand’s first capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site with impressive temples and monuments.
- Bo Sang Umbrella Village: Witness traditional umbrella-making in Bo Sang village, famous for its handcrafted parasols and annual Umbrella Festival.
- Lanna Folklife Museum: Learn about Northern Thailand’s cultural heritage through exhibits on traditional Lanna life, arts, and crafts in Chiang Mai.
Natural Experiences
- Doi Inthanon National Park: Trek to the summit of Thailand’s highest peak, explore stunning waterfalls, and enjoy diverse flora and fauna.
- Hiking in Pai: Hike through the unique rock formations and enjoy panoramic views of the Pai Valley, especially beautiful at sunset.
- Mae Hong Son Loop: Drive or bike through picturesque landscapes, visit hill tribe villages, and soak in hot springs along this scenic route.
- Huai Nam Dang National Park: Camp under the stars, trek through forests, and take in the breathtaking mountain views and vibrant flower gardens.
Urban Experiences
- Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: Shop for local handicrafts, clothing, and enjoy delicious street food at this bustling evening market.
- Sunday Walking Street: Experience the vibrant atmosphere, local crafts, and street performances in Chiang Mai’s Old City every Sunday evening.
- Warorot Market (Kad Luang): Explore one of Chiang Mai’s oldest markets, offering a wide variety of goods from fresh produce to traditional textiles.
- Nimmanhaemin Road: Discover trendy cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife in Chiang Mai’s hip and modern neighborhood.
Unique Experiences
- Elephant Nature Park: Spend a day at an ethical sanctuary, learning about and interacting with rescued elephants.
- Cooking Classes: Learn to cook traditional Thai dishes using local ingredients at one of the many cooking schools in Chiang Mai.
- Flight of the Gibbon: Experience an exhilarating zip-lining adventure through the jungle canopy in Mae Kampong.
Weird and Wonderful
- White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): Visit this unconventional and stunningly intricate temple in Chiang Rai, known for its all-white design and surreal art.
- Insect Museum: Discover a fascinating collection of insects, including rare and exotic species, in this quirky museum in Chiang Mai.
- Silver Temple (Wat Sri Suphan): Explore the unique silver-covered temple where you can see silver craftsmen at work.
- Khum Khantoke: Enjoy a traditional Lanna dinner and cultural show, complete with dancing and music, in a beautifully decorated setting.
Need to Know
- Worth it?: Definitely, especially for those who enjoy temple hopping, visiting hill tribes and jungle trekking.
- What to do: Temple hopping, visiting remote hill tribe villages, jungle trekking on the back of an elephant, river rafting, shopping at night markets.
- Best time to go: November until February is blessed with cool, dry weather and is when the region receives the largest number of visitors.
- How long?: At least five days and nights are needed for those who plan to go trekking.
- Trivia: Northern Thailand is surrounded by the tallest mountains in Thailand, including Doi Inthanon, Doi Pha Luang and Doi Ang Khang.