Northern Thailand Holidays

Chiang Mai, the “Rose of the North”, is the region’s hub and a laid back place to hang out or use as a base, if heading to the hills for trekking, rafting and other soft adventures.  If temples are your thing, Chiang Mai has lots, including the impressive Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Phra Singh and the massive Wat Chedi Luang. The area is also rich with cottage industries and you can visit workshops to watch artisans at work, then head to the bustling Night Market to haggle for handicrafts and souvenirs, and feast on authentic Thai cuisine.

Thailand’s most northern city, Chiang Rai, is gateway to the infamous Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar (Burma) meet. Along with a relaxed pace and array of beautiful temples, Chiang Rai is also a launchpad to the surrounding mountains, hills and forest parks. If trekking isn’t for you, take a stroll by the Kok River where you’ll even find a stretch of sand, or simply shop for hilltribe handicrafts, souvenirs and clothing at the Weekend Walking Street Market or Night Bazaar.

Hemmed in by high mountain ranges, sleepy Mae Hong Son nestles remotely in a pretty valley near the Burmese border. Trekking is a major attraction and a terrific way to appreciate the superb scenery and visit some of the hilltribes that inhabit the area, each with their own unique style, language, customs, traditions and cuisine. Mae Hong Son also has several temples, including the striking Phra That Doi Kong Mu.  Set high up on a hill overlooking Mae Hong Son, visit at dawn to see the town bathed in mist or later in the afternoon for far-reaching views.

Why visit Northern Thailand?

Fascinating culture
Historic temples
Elephant trekking
Hilltribe villages
Incredible scenery
Fantastic soft adventure