Northern Thailand

Thailand's northern mountains centered on Chiang Mai: the old city, Chiang Rai's White Temple, the Pai valley, and the old towns of Lampang and Nan.

Northern Thailand is the mountainous north of the country, historically the land of the Lanna Kingdom, with culture, food and architecture that differ from the central region around Bangkok. For travelers it centers on Chiang Mai and includes Chiang Rai, Pai and Mae Hong Son, Lampang and Nan, as well as the World Heritage ancient city of Sukhothai farther south. Highlights include: Chiang Mai's more than 300 temples in the old city, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the weekend night markets, cooking classes and elephant sanctuaries; Chiang Rai's White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House and the Golden Triangle; Pai's canyons, hot springs and slow-paced vibe, and the Mae Hong Son Loop with its 1,864 curves; Lampang's horse carriages and teak temples; Nan's mural-painted temples and hill villages; and the Buddha images and lotus ponds of Sukhothai Historical Park. The classic route is Chiang Mai 3–4 days, Chiang Rai 2 days and Pai 2–3 days, 7–10 days in total, with 2–3 more days if you add Sukhothai or Nan. Chiang Mai has international flights and overnight trains from Bangkok; within the region you get around by bus, minibus or rented motorbike. Mountain roads are full of bends, so drive carefully and buy insurance that covers motorbikes. Haze is severe in March–April, so avoid it if you can.

Destinations

Itineraries