Northern Thailand
What Makes the North Unique?
Northern Thailand is a completely different world than Bangkok or the islands
Mountains and Nature
- πΎ Rice terraces and farming villages
- π₯Ύ Jungle trekking and mountains
- π§ Waterfalls and rivers
- βοΈ Cooler climate than in the south
Culture and History
- π£οΈ Own dialect (Lanna)
- β©οΈ Lanna-style temples
- π¨ Handicrafts and local art
- π Unique festivals (Yi Peng)
Northern Cuisine
- π₯ Khao Soi (curry with noodles)
- π Sai Oua (spicy sausage)
- πΆοΈ Less spicy than in the south
- πͺ Local night markets
Discover Northern Thailand Cities
Each city has its own unique character and attractions
Chiang Mai
Cultural capital of the North. Over 300 temples, food markets, mountains all around and full infrastructure for tourists.
See more βChiang Rai
White Temple and Golden Triangle. Quieter than CM, close to borders with Laos and Myanmar. Base for excursions.
See more βPai
Hippie paradise in the mountains. Relaxing atmosphere, waterfalls, hot springs and views. Perfect for a few days of rest.
See more βSukhothai
Ancient ruins and Thailandβs first kingdom. UNESCO World Heritage. Cycling between temples for sightseeing.
See more βNan
Hidden gem. Few tourists, authentic Thai life, beautiful temples and mountain landscape. For adventure seekers.
See more βMae Hong Son
Famous motorcycle loop. Serpentines, mountain passes and breathtaking views. For motorcycle and nature lovers.
See more βReady to plan your adventure?
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How to Plan a Trip to the North?
Practical information to help you create the perfect plan
How Many Days Do I Need?
- 7 days β Chiang Mai only (perfect for first time)
- 10-14 days β Chiang Mai + 2-3 other cities
- 2-3 weeks β entire region at a relaxed pace
- 1 month+ β all cities + villages
Sample Routes
- Classic: Chiang Mai β Chiang Rai β Pai
- Historical: Chiang Mai β Sukhothai β Nan
- Loop: CM β Pai β Mae Hong Son β CM
- Off-beaten: CM β Nan β Phayao β Chiang Rai
How to Get Around?
- Within cities: Songthaew, Grab/Bolt, scooter
- Between cities: Buses, minibuses
- For the adventurous: Rented motorcycle
- Comfortable: Private driver/tours
Budget
- Budget: $20-30/day (hostels, street food)
- Mid-range: $40-60/day (3* hotels, restaurants)
- Comfort: $75+/day (4-5* hotels, tours)
- Cheaper than Bangkok! Accommodation 30-40% less
Start with Chiang Mai
Almost everyone begins their Northern adventure with Chiang Mai β itβs the best place to start with full infrastructure and easy access to other cities.
See Chiang Mai Guide βRead the Best Articles
Detailed guides to Northern cities and attractions
ποΈ Cities
ποΈ Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Northern Thailand
How does the North differ from the rest of Thailand?
The North has its own dialect (Lanna), different cuisine (less spicy), its own temple architecture style and a significantly cooler climate (in winter it can be 59Β°F in the evenings!). Itβs also a region of mountains and rice terraces instead of beaches. The culture is more preserved and authentic β fewer tourists than in the south or Bangkok.
Which city is best to start with?
Chiang Mai is the best choice to begin with. It has an international airport (flights from Bangkok, Phuket), full tourist infrastructure, hundreds of hotels and restaurants. Itβs also an ideal base for trips to other cities. You can spend a week there, get to know the region, and then decide where to go next.
How many days do I need to explore the region?
It depends on what you want to see:
β’ 7 days β Chiang Mai only (perfect for first time)
β’ 10-14 days β Chiang Mai + 2-3 other cities (Chiang Rai, Pai)
β’ 2-3 weeks β most of the region at a relaxed pace
β’ Month+ β all cities plus small villages and trekking
I recommend minimum 10 days to feel the diversity of the North.
Do I need to know Thai in small towns?
In Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Pai, English is enough β theyβre touristy. In smaller towns like Nan, Mae Hong Son or villages it will be harder, but Google Translate + gestures work wonders. Thais are very helpful. Basic Thai words (sawadee krap/ka, kop khun krap/ka) really help and are appreciated!
Whatβs the weather like in the North?
The North has 3 seasons:
β’ Cool (November-February): 59-82Β°F β best time! Cool evenings, bring a jacket
β’ Hot (March-May): 86-104Β°F β very hot, field burning season (smog)
β’ Rainy (June-October): 77-90Β°F, afternoon rainfall
Avoid March-April (smog + heat). Best time: November-February.
Can I combine the North with beaches?
Yes! Many people do this:
1. Week in Bangkok (acclimatization, sightseeing)
2. Week in the North (Chiang Mai + 1-2 cities)
3. Week on the islands (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui)
This gives you the full picture of Thailand: city, mountains, culture + beaches and relaxation. Flights between regions are cheap ($40-80). Perfect combination!