Best Places to Visit in Northern Thailand

It used to be the seat of the Lanna Kingdom, the capital of Thailand. Chiang Mai is all about temples, monasteries, laid-back vibes, crowded natural and local markets, and historical sites. A comfortable town offering affordability and warmth along with a high quality of life is what attracts the people globally. A backpacker’s haven, it is known for cycling, rafting, hiking, and other outdoor activities. With over 30 temples, the famous ones include Wat Phra Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Umong. It also allows you to visit many tribal regions like Karen Hill Tribe Village or head to the local markets like the Sunday and Saturday weekend markets. Doi Suthep Vipassana Centre is also here offering meditation sessions. 

• Best time to visit: November-February
• Ideal stay duration: 2-4 days
• Things to do: Visit Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Doi Suthep, Doi Inthanon National Park, explore the night market, and more.

Chiang Rai is a beautiful city in Northern Thailand nearing the border of Myanmar and Laos. Chiang Rai is known for being home to many ancient temples and tribal villages and the Mekong River. Chiang Rai is part of the Golden Triangle of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, making it a perfect base for exploring the region. Wat Rong Khun or white temple has made this gateway popular for backpackers. The local food, music, and art along with the jungle trekking makes it one of the best places to visit in Northern Thailand.

• Best time to visit: November-February
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 days
• Things to do: Explore the clock tower at night, shop and eat at Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, visit Wat Phra Kaew, and more.

Pai is located between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Don engulfed by mountains everywhere. It is a dream destination for a traveler with River Pai appealing to everyone. The river also makes the ideal place for river rafting. Other adventure activities to do here include hiking and trekking. Travelers can also head to ethnic hill-tribe villagers for a natural and local experience. 

• Best time to visit: November-February
• Ideal stay duration: 3 days
• Things to do: Do Tubing in Pai, go trekking, Bamboo & white-water rafting, exploring Pai Canyon and more.

Doi Inthanon National Park or ‘Roof of Thailand’ is a known tourist destination in Northern Thailand. It is located in the Thanon Thong Chai Range, Himalayan mountain range, 70 km Southwest of Chiang Mai. The park is home to Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain at 2,565 meters above sea level. It also has diverse forests, a rich cultural heritage, and waterfalls. The park is also home to many wildlife including gibbons, civet cats, yellow-bellied weasels, bats, lizards, and more. It is also a top destination for different species of birds over 362 species.

• Best time to visit: Early morning hours
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
• Things to do: Hiking, visiting Thailand’s highest point, waterfalls, and two chedis. 

Tham Lod Cave in Northern Thailand’s Pai district is one of the most impressive limestone formations of the region. The massive cave system is known for its dramatic stalactites, ancient teakwood coffins, and stalagmites. Most of them are thousands of years old. Visitors explore the cave via a bamboo raft along the Pang Mapha River. This passes through the narrow changers and large cavers filled with fascinating rock formations. The cave is not only a natural wonder but is also significant historically and culturally. 

• Best time to visit: January to July
• Ideal stay duration: 2 hours
• Things to do: See the rock formations, see the murals & catfishes, sail on the river and explore the caves.

Located just outside Chiang Mai, Mae Sa Waterfall is a beautiful, multi-tiered waterfall set within a lush, tropical forest. The waterfall cascades down several levels, creating scenic pools ideal for a refreshing dip. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle. The surrounding area offers several walking trails, making it an ideal destination for nature walks and picnics. With its cool, clean water and stunning surroundings, Mae Sa Waterfall provides a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and unwind.

• Best time to visit: May to October
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
• Things to do: hiking, exploring the waterfalls, exploring Hmong hill tribe market and more.

Wat Rong Khun or white temple is one of the best places to visit in Northern Thailand. It is a unique and visually striking temple situated in Chiang Rai. It is a contemporary Buddhist temple designed by artist Chalemchai Kostipipar and is a fusion of traditional Thai architecture and modern artistic elements. Unlike other temples, it has a dazzling white exterior symbolizing purity while intricate carvings and sculptures depict themes from Buddhist teaching. This includes scenes from pop culture and even the afterlife. The temple designs also have symbolic elements like bridges of ‘rebirth’ that visitors cross to reach the mail hall representing the transitions from suffering to enlightenment.

• Best time to visit: May to October
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
• Location: Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand

It is situated in the heart of Chiang Mai and is one of the most beautiful temples in the city. It offers a peaceful escape for anyone seeking spiritual solace. It was built in the 14th century and the complex is home to Phra Singh Budhha, the most important religious artifact in Thai Buddhism. Tourists can explore the beautiful and intricately designed structures including detailed murals, golden stupas, and courtyards. The temple is the perfect spot for reflection and meditation with its serene atmosphere and rich history providing a deep sense of spiritual awakening for both tourists and locals alike.

• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
• Location: 2 Samlarn Rd, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50280, Thailand
• Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
• Things to do: See the reclining Buddha, head on a cycling tour, see the golden chedi, and taking the temple tour.

The black house museum or Baan Si Dum is in Chiang Rai. It is an eclectic and beautiful art space created by Thai artist Thawan Duchanee. It is a contrast to the ornate temples of Thailand and the museum has Thai-style and dark buildings filled with bizarre yet meaningful art pieces, animal remains and sculptures. The art here challenges conventional ideas of spirituality and beauty offering visitors an offbeat and unique experience. The black house museum is simply a must-visit place in Northern Thailand for art-lovers looking for creative and unconventional art. 

• Best time to visit: November to February
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
• Things to do: Explore the museum or visit the gallery
• Location: 333 Nang Lae, อำเภอเมือง Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
• Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Mae Hong Son, located in northern Thailand, is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts, offering lush jungles, scenic mountain landscapes, and cultural encounters with indigenous hill tribes. Popular trekking routes lead through remote villages, where visitors can interact with the Karen, Hmong, and Lisu communities. The trek takes you to picturesque viewpoints, hidden waterfalls, and vibrant rice paddies. With its diverse flora and fauna, Mae Hong Son offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual hiker, this destination provides an authentic and rewarding experience amidst nature’s untouched beauty.

• Best time to visit: May to October

Bamboo rafting along the Pai River is a tranquil and scenic way to explore the beauty of Pai, a picturesque town in northern Thailand. The river winds through lush green landscapes, with bamboo rafts providing a calm, eco-friendly mode of transportation. As you float down the river, you’ll pass by small villages, rice fields, and pristine wilderness, experiencing the natural beauty of the area at a leisurely pace. It’s an ideal activity for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy Pai’s serene surroundings. Bamboo rafting is both relaxing and a perfect way to soak in the tranquility of northern Thailand.

• Best time to visit: May to October
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
• Timings: 300-500 baht

The mountains of Mae Hong Son, Ban Rak Thai is a beautiful, Chinese-influenced village known for its tea cultivation and serene beauty. The village was originally the home of Chinese soldiers who fled to Thailand after the Chinese civil war. The village also offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush tea plantations and hills covered by mists. Do not forget to try the cup of hot Oolong tea here while breathing in the panoramic views of the nearby surroundings, including the reflective lake at the heart of the village.n Ban Rak Thai is the perfect destination for anyone who loves tea and seeks an escape from the busyness of the city life. 

• Best time to visit: May to October
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
• Things to do: hiking, exploring the waterfalls, exploring Hmong hill tribe market and more. 
• Location: หมู่บ้านรักไทยแม่ฮ่องสอน Tambon Mok Cham Pae, เมือง Mae Hong Son 58000, Thailand.
• Timings: 6:20 am to 8 pm. 

Pha Chor Canyon in Mae Wang National Park is known as Thailand’s ‘Mipi Grand Canyon.’ It is a striking geological formation featuring towing sandstone cliffs shaped by centuries of erosion. The canyon is a labyrinth of narrow pathways, offering dramatic views of the nearby landscape including steep escarpments and rock pillars. Visitors also hike along trails exploring the canyon’s beauty while the area is also home to the diverse flora and fauna. For nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, this is a must-see offering a beautiful landscape in Northern Thailand. 

• Best time to visit: November to early February
• Ideal stay duration: An hour or so
• Things to do: Hiking to Mae Wong Mountain
• Timings: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
• Price: 100 baht (Foreigns), 20 baht (Locals)

One of the top attractions in Northern Thailand is Phu Chi Fa, the place with the most beautiful sunrise. Phu Chi Fa, a mountain peak in Chiang Rai province is known for its beautiful views over a sea of clouds. Head over early morning for a sunrise view that is ethereal and surreal. When the sun rises, the entire landscape transforms with golden light illuminating the nearby mountains. Hike to this mountain is easy and the viewpoint offers splendid views. It is a magical experience for anyone seeking serenity and natural beauty.

• Best time to visit: Early morning
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
• Things to do: Explore Doi Tha Phang, relax at the summit and watch the stunning sunrise.

The Chiang Mai Night Safari offers a unique experience of wildlife viewing after dark. Located just outside the city, this nocturnal safari allows visitors to explore a vast wildlife park under the stars, where they can observe nocturnal animals in their natural habitats. The safari is divided into three zones: the predator zone, where you can see big cats; the savannah zone, home to herbivores like giraffes and zebras; and the nocturnal zone, where animals such as civet cats, porcupines, and various birds are active. The safari includes both tram rides and walking trails, making it an engaging experience for animal lovers and families alike.

• Best time to visit: Afternoon
• Ideal stay duration: 3-4 hours
• Location: 33, Nong Kwai, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230, Thailand
• Timings: 11 am to 10 pm.
• Entry fee: 50-800 baht

Elephant Nature Park, Chiang Mai is a sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of elephants mistreated in the logging and tourism industries. This park simply focuses on ethical elephant tourism prioritizing animal welfare. Here visitors can feed or bathe them and be part of the conservation efforts. The Elephant Nature Park is one of the best choices for anyone looking to support humane wildlife tourism.

• Best time to visit: October-November
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
• Location: 289 1 Kuet Chang, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand

One of the best places to see in Northern Thailand is Sirikit Botanical Garden set against Doi Suthep Mountain. The park spans over 600-acre of land preserving the rich plant diversity of Chiang Mai. The garden also features beautifully landscapes areas divided into many different themes. These include temperate, alpine, and tropical plant species. Visitors walk through lush gardens exploring the rainforest greenhouse and even venture along scenic trails leading to waterfalls. The garden boasts a unique orchid display and is the ideal place for nature lovers, and botany enthusiasts wanting to escape the city while immersing in the natural beauty nearby.

• Best time to visit: Mid-November > Mid-February
• Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours
• Location: 100 หมู่ 9 Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand