Northern Thailand

Best for

Culture & Elephants

Chiang Mai

Ancient temples, vibrant markets and unforgettable elephant encounters.

Canyons & Cafés

Pai

Dramatic canyons, mountain views and a laid-back café culture.

Temples

Chiang Rai

Extraordinary temples, intricate architecture and artistic wonders.

Scenic Escapes

Mae Hong Son

Misty mountains, peaceful villages and breathtaking scenic drives.

Browse the destinations

Chiang Mai

Filmed byMika Journey

Music byBrad Oberhofer - Mountain Meets Ocean

Nestled among the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its relaxed atmosphere, centuries-old temples, thriving café culture and incredible natural surroundings. It's one of the country's best destinations for slow travel, adventure and authentic local experiences.

Must visit

Old City

Ancient temple lanes in the heart of Chiang Mai

Elephant Nature Park

A sanctuary where rescued elephants roam free

Land Of Angels

A hidden waterfall framed by a heart-shaped cave

Twin Royal Pagodas

Royal pagodas above the clouds of Doi Inthanon

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

A golden mountaintop temple above Chiang Mai

Sunday Walking Street

Sunday night streets filled with food, craft and music

Doi Inthanon National Park

Thailand's highest peak wrapped in cool mountain mist

Perfect for

Café Culture

Some of Thailand's best coffee shops and co-working spaces

Nature

Doi Inthanon National Park and mountain scenery

Digital Nomads

Fast wifi, low cost of living, thriving community

Culture

Hundreds of temples across the Old City

Before you go

Rent a scooter if comfortable⌄

It's the best way to reach temples and viewpoints outside the city.

Visit during Yi Peng or Loy Krathong⌄

The lantern festivals make for a truly unique experience.

Pack a light jacket⌄

Evenings can get cool during the cool season (Nov–Feb).

Check air quality during Feb–Apr⌄

Burning season can bring hazy skies and poor air quality.

The drive to Pai has over 700 curves⌄

Ride carefully or organise a driver for the mountain road.

Pai

Filmed byJimmy Travels

Music byOuska - Alive

Hidden in the mountains of northern Thailand, Pai is a laid-back town famous for its scenic landscapes, bohemian cafés and relaxed atmosphere. It's the perfect escape for travellers looking to slow down and immerse themselves in nature.

Must visit

Pai Canyon

Sunset ridgelines carved into Pai's red earth

Mo Paeng Waterfall

A jungle waterfall with natural rock slides

Memorial Bridge

A river crossing with Pai's old-world charm

Pai Hot Springs

Warm mineral pools tucked into the forest

Yun Lai Viewpoint

Misty valley views from Pai's quiet hilltops

White Buddha

A white hillside Buddha watching over Pai

Pai Walking Market

Tiny-town nights filled with food, music and backpackers

Perfect for

Nature

Canyons, waterfalls and mountain scenery

Cafés

Bohemian coffee shops throughout the walking street

Road Trips

The famous drive from Chiang Mai is an adventure in itself

Photography

Sunrise and sunset over the valley

Before you go

Rent a scooter⌄

It's the easiest way to explore the surrounding waterfalls and viewpoints.

Time it for sunrise or sunset⌄

The views around Pai are best in the golden hours.

Chiang Rai

Filmed byManu T

Music byDryhope - Somewhere Else

Home to some of Thailand's most extraordinary temples, Chiang Rai blends contemporary art, rich history and beautiful mountain scenery. Quieter than Chiang Mai, it's the perfect destination for travellers seeking culture, creativity and a slower pace.

Must visit

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

A white temple that feels carved from another world

Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

Cobalt halls glowing with gold and blue detail

Black House Museum (Baan Dam)

Dark wooden halls filled with surreal northern art

Khun Korn Waterfall

A tall jungle waterfall worth the forest walk

Singha Park

Tea fields and open views just outside Chiang Rai

Golden Triangle

Three countries meeting at one legendary river bend

Doi Tung

Royal gardens and mountain air near the border

Choui Fong Tea Plantation

Terraced tea hills made for a slow morning

Perfect for

Culture

Some of Thailand's most unique temple architecture

Photography

The White and Blue Temples are unmissable photo stops

Road Trips

Easy to combine with the Golden Triangle

Nature

Khun Korn Waterfall and mountain scenery nearby

Before you go

The White Temple is busiest late morning⌄

Arrive early to beat the tour bus crowds.

Stay overnight if you can⌄

There's enough to see around Chiang Rai to justify more than a rushed day trip.

Visit the Golden Triangle⌄

See Thailand, Myanmar and Laos all from one viewpoint.

Mae Hong Son

Filmed byKevin Loupe

Music byKlur - Behind My Eyes

Surrounded by misty mountains and peaceful valleys, Mae Hong Son offers one of Thailand's most authentic and rewarding road trips. Traditional villages, mountain viewpoints and quiet countryside make it the perfect destination for travellers looking to escape the crowds.

Must visit