Northern Thailand is a land of contrasts and quiet magic, where mist-covered mountains meet golden temples, and bustling night markets give way to peaceful villages. Unlike the tropical allure of the south, the north offers a more soulful journey, rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time traveller or a seasoned explorer, this 14 days in Northern Thailand promises unforgettable moments and meaningful connections.
Why visit Northern Thailand?
Northern Thailand is a wonderful destination that every nature and culture lover should visit once in a lifetime. While southern Thailand is renowned for its stretching white sand beaches and tropical islands, the north presents an entirely different beauty: deep, quiet and rich in identity.
- Majestic nature and pleasant climate: The steep mountains in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Pao create spectacular landscapes, especially in the winter. When fog covers the roads, the cool air feels very different from the typical hot sunshine experienced in the south.
- Chance to experience unique culture: The north of Thailand preserves the ancient Lanna culture, from temple architecture to customs. When you visit a temple, you will feel sacred and quiet, such as at Wat Phra Doi Suthep, the sacred cultural symbol of Chiang Mai.
- Diverse culinary experience: Some dishes, such as Khao Soi, Sai Oua or Nampir honey, have a spicy and rich taste, which is entirely different from the sour and sweet taste of southern Thailand.
- Authentic local life: Because northern Thailand is the habitat of minority people, there are lively night markets that sell unique items and exquisite handicrafts. Chiang mai Night Market is not only a place to shop but also a place to explore local life. Visitors can interact with local people and admire the vibe of life here.
- Opportunity to interact with locals: the northerners are friendly and gentle, and their warm smiles make every visitor feel so hearty. Talking to local people, learning how to knit or cooking with them is more valuable than any photo!
Splendors of Northern Thailand
>>> Embarking on our exciting trip to Bangkok and Northern Thailand in 8 Days to uncover the charm of mountains, lakes, and tribes lives.
When is the best time to visit Northern Thailand?
The ideal time to visit Northern Thailand is from November to February, when the region experiences its cool season. During this period, the weather is comfortable, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C, while nighttime temperatures might decline to 15°C, particularly in mountainous areas like Chiang Rai or Pai. Due to the minimal rainfall, outdoor activities, such as trekking or visiting highland towns, can be done easily.
Furthermore, lively festivals such as the Chiang Mai Flower Festival (February), Yi Peng Lantern, and Loy Krathong (November) take place during this time of the year, making it ideal for those who want to experience the traditional Lanna culture.
Last but not least, in this season, the north is covered in the yellow color of post-harvest rice fields or green tea hills in the light sun. In the early morning, you can catch thick fog and a sea of virtual clouds, especially at high points like Doi Inthanon or Doi Ang Khang.
What to Do in Northern Thailand?
Northern Thailand offers a unique atmosphere that you can find nowhere else; it’s gentle, deep, and authentic. Northern Thailand makes people fall in love, not with lively beauty like the South but with its innate experience. Here are the top things to do when visiting northern Thailand in 14 days.
Chiang Mai
Being the largest city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai boasts both tradition and modernity. With hundreds of ancient temples, lively Lanna festivals, and diverse culinary offerings, this destination provides rich cultural heritage and equally energetic cultural experiences for tourists.
Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
This famous temple is located on top of Doi Suthep, about 15 kilometers from the center of Chiang Mai. You can take a tuk-tuk or rent a motorcycle and then climb more than 300 steps decorated with rotating dragons. When you reach the top, the first thing you feel is the tranquillity and sacredness of space. The golden pagoda sparkles in the sun, surrounded by Buddha statues and silver bells. Standing there quietly for a long time, you can feel a unique peace that a busy city can never provide.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Stroll around the Sunday Walking Street
One of the most unique things about northern Thailand is the night market. Every Sunday afternoon through late at night, the market is open. This is not only a selling point but also a feast for the eyes and taste buds. Let’s wander between the handicraft stalls selling hand-embroidered cloth bags and silver jewellery until the aroma of grilled meats and Thai coconut cakes wafts over you. While eating hot Khao Soi dishes and When you listen to street performers, the experience feels intimate and vivid—as if you have just become a part of the daily lives of the local people.
The bustling Sunday Walking Street
Indulge in the tranquil atmosphere at Doi Inthanon National Park
If you want to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of the city life, let visit Doi Inthanon National Park. This is the highest peak in Thailand, with the height about 2,565 meters, providing year-round cool weather, even chilly in the early mornings.
To start your journey, visit the twin pagodas, which are the King and Queen Pagodas. They are located right in the carefully tended flower gardens, creating a beautiful picture between clouds and the mountains. After that, take a walk along the forest trails, where you will encounter the majestic Wachirathan waterfall, primaeval moss forests and rare birds. It is fair to say this is a paradise for those who love photography and ecological exploration. Spending a day in Doi Inthanon not only helps you relax in the fresh air but also brings a new perspective on the natural beauty of the northern mountains of Thailand.
Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai
Chiang Rai
Not as energetic as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai has a quieter beauty, which is suitable for those who love nature, want to understand the frontier culture, and want to explore the little-known cuttings in Thailand.
Explore White Temple—Wat Rong Khun
Have you ever seen a picture of this temple? Do you agree that this temple is one of the most unique buildings you’ve seen? Unlike the traditional golden temple, Wat Rong Khun is made entirely of bright white ink, with small lenses that shine in the sun. Every detail has far-reaching significance, from the bridge leading to the main circuit, symbolising the road from hell to heaven, to murals depicting religious and modern figures (such as Neo in War). You should spend at least an hour observing and understanding every layer of meaning given by the artist Chalermchai Kosipipat.
The White Temple, one of the most architecture in Chiang Rai
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Visit the Golden Triangle
From Chiang Rai, visitors can drive north for about 1.5 hours to reach the Golden Triangle, and the Mekong River separates Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. Here, you should rent a boat to travel along the river and view the border between Thailand and Myanmar, which is just a short distance away. The nearby opium museum is also impressive, not only for its artefacts but also for its way of telling the story of the land’s once complicated history. Interestingly, what used to be the “black” centre of the region has now become a peaceful and educational tourist destination.
Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai, Thailand
Pai
Nestled in the middle of pristine mountains and forests, Pai is a dream destination for people who love slow living, nature, and peace. With its winding roads, majestic mountain scenery, natural hot springs, and lovely cafes, Pai creates a relaxing and intimate atmosphere reminiscent of a “hippie paradise” in the heart of Thailand.
Admire sunrise at Pai Canyon
About a 15-minute drive from Pai Town, Pai Canyon is a place worth your sleep to visit in the early morning. We recommend leaving before 5:30 am to catch the sunrise from the distant mountains. The narrow, rugged, dark red strips of land create a very unique terrain, with some places just wide enough for one person to walk through, with vertical cliffs on both sides. When the early morning sunlight touches the mist lingering on the grass and trees, the scene is both wild and poetic, a very different kind of beauty, very “Pai”.
Walk though the unique terrain in Pai Canyon
Indulge in the Tha Pai hot springs
After hours of driving on winding roads, there’s nothing better than soaking your body in the natural hot springs. The Tha Pai Hot Springs is located in the middle of a forest, with moderately hot water and a stone staircase leading down to each small lake. Only with a bath of about an hour can the warm water dissolve all the fatigue in your body. The sound of the birds, the wind, and the rippling of the water harmonises into a cruising music, making you forget about time.
Ease your body in the warm water at Tha Pai hot springs
Suggested Itinerary for 14 Days in Northern Thailand
Itinerary 1: Adventure to Northern Thailand
Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok
Day 2: Kanchanaburi & River Kwai: Getting to Kanchanaburi by a longtail boat. Then, you will enjoy the view of the bridge and take incredible photos.
Day 3: Erawan Waterfalls: Cooling down in the 7 levels of the spectacular Erawan Waterfalls.
Day 4: Ancient Ruins and History: Today, you will go to Ayutthaya, an ancient capital full of culture and history. Ride a bike and visit world heritage sites to learn about the fascinating history of Thailand. After that, take a train to Chiang Mai.
Day 5: Temples & Cultural Exploration: Visit famous temples in Chiang Mai, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Day 6: Hiking and exploring a waterfall: Today, you will participate in a fascinating trekking tour through the jungle. You will stay overnight at a homestay in a village so you can experience the local lives of tribes here.
Day 7: Visit Elephant Sanctuary and try bamboo rafting: Try bamboo rafting down the river to return to Chiang Mai. You will visit the Elephant Sanctuary to learn about the elephants, feed and bath them.
Day 8: Zipline through the jungle: Spend this day experiencing another exciting activity: zipline through the jungle. This will make your heart beat faster and give you adrenaline!
Day 9: Relaxing morning and driver to Pai: Spend this day relaxing before transfer to the hippie town of Pai.
Day 10: Explore caves, canyons and hot springs: You will explore the highlights of Pai and the surrounding area, such as Lod Cave, hot springs, and Pai Canyon.
Day 11: Relaxing day in Pai: This is your free day in Pai, you can do whatever you want (relax by the pool, play a few games, or read a good book).
Day 12: Cooking class in Chiang Mai: Interested in Thai cuisine? Let’s participate in a Chiang Mai cooking class. Under the guidance of the chef, you will cook by yourself and then taste them.
Day 13: Chiang Mai Canyon: Visit the Grand Canyon for countless exciting activities, including rope jumping, deep water soloing, or climbing on the rock climbing wall.
Day 14: Departure from Chiang Mai
>>> Detailed itinerary: Here
Itinerary 2: Explore Hidden Treasures of Northern Thailand in 14 Days
Day 1: Arrive in Chiang Mai
Day 2: Explore Chiang Mai: Today, you will visit all the highlights of Chiang Mai, such as Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan, and Sam Kamphaeng.
Day 3: Chiang Mai – Lampang: Transfer to Lampang and visit the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre to watch elephant shows. Then, head to Chae Hom district to enjoy spectacular natural scenery.
Day 4: Lampang – Sukhothai: Embark on an exciting trip to Sukhothai, the ancient capital of Thailand, where history comes alive amidst a serene and traditional life. Explore some of the most prominent places, such as Si Satchanalai Historical Park and Wat Mahathat, to learn more about Thailand’s history.
Day 5: Sukhothai – Phrae: Transfer to Phrae and start your exploration with a visit to Wat Pong Sunan, a fascinating temple housing an impressive golden reclining Buddha. Next, venture to Khum Wong Buri, or Ban Wong Buri, an iconic pink-coloured Thai house that is over a century old.
Day 6: Phrae – Chiang Rai: Today, you will explore the unique White Temple – Wat Rong Khun. The pristine white church of the temple resembles a paradise castle. Continue your journey to the Singha Park Farm and end your day at Chiang Rai Night Bazaar.
Day 7: Explore Chiang Rai: This day you will discover the charm of Chiang Rai. Start your journey by visiting the charming Mae Fah Luang, Doi Tung Palace, and Mae Fah Luang Garden. After that, visit the Golden Triangle and discover the border between Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
Day 8: Chiang Rai – Ban Tha Ton: Tranfer to Ban Tha Ton Village, a charming border village to admire the picturesque environment of the village, with mountains and winding rivers.
Day 9: Ban Tha Ton – Pai: Start your day by visiting Hinoki Land, a fascinating tourist attraction featuring Japanese architecture. Then, visit Wat Ban Den temple ans Mork Fah Waterfall. Continue your journey to Pai, a tranquil village with scenic views of mountains and lakes.
Day 10: Explore Pai: Today, you will explore Pai by visiting its highlights, including Wat Phra That Mae Yen, Pai Canyon, and the Bridge of Merit.
Day 11: Pai – Mae Hong Son: Departing Pai to Mae Hong Son. During your journey, visit Lod Cave, one of the region’s most important archaeological sites. Continue to a Lahu hill tribe village to immerse yourself in Lahu culture.
Day 12: Explore Mae Hong Son: Visit Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, a remarkable and revealed place in Mae Hong Son. Next on the road is Su Tong Pae Bridge, the longest bambook bridge in Thailand.
Day 13: Mae Hong Son – Chiang Mai: Return to Chiang Mai and visit Doi Inthanon National Park, the Thailand’s highest peak, with the twin royal pagodas. Then, visit the majestic Wachirathan Waterfall, a magnificent and imposing single-tiered waterfall.
Day 14: Departure
Detailed itinerary: Here
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Helpful tips for your trip to Northern Thailand
Travelling to northern Thailand, you will feel the atmosphere of the highlands, with cool weather, majestic mountains, diverse local culture and friendly locals. To make your trip smooth, here are some helpful tips you should bear in mind:
- Bring a light jacket: Whether you go in the dry or cool season, the mornings and nights in mountainous areas such as Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai might be chilly; sometimes it’s under 10°C. Therefore, a light jacket and comfortable shoes are must-haves.
- Prepare insect repellent and sunscreen: Despite the cool air, you should still carry mosquito spray, especially if you plan to stay in areas near forests or streams. In addition, sunscreen is still important because sunlight at high altitudes can cause skin to burn faster.
- Download offline maps and prepare local 4G SIMs: In remote areas, mobile signals can be weak or unstable. Download offline maps from Google Maps or Maps and buy a Thailand SIM with 4G data for convenient route searching and information when needed.
- Bring a spare battery: If you use your phone to take photos, navigate and communicate, bring a spare battery. Many mountainous areas may have temporary power outages or no convenient charging source.
- Travel by motorbike to enjoy the journey: Northern Thailand is perfect for riding motorbike, especially from Chiang Mai to Pai or wandering in small towns. The winding mountain passes and scenic roads are perfect for those who enjoy the freedom of movement. However, drive carefully, as some sections of the road are steep and winding.
- Bring cash, especially when you’re going into remote areas: Many areas in Chiang Rai, or highland villages, are not used to smart banking; therefore, always carry some Thai cash (baht), particularly when you are going to night markets, eating snacks or buying handicrafts.
- Carry personal toilet paper and hand wash water: Many stops, public toilets or deep areas are not fully equipped with amenities; therefore, you should bring toilet paper, wet towels, or dry hand wash to feel cleaner and more comfortable.
- Respect local culture: When visiting temples or ethnic minority villages, you should dress politely and ask before taking pictures. A little cultural respect will make you more welcome.
- Learn some basic Thai communication phrases: Since English is not as popular as in major cities such as Bangkok or Phuket, local people will be happy when visitors talk basic Thai languages such as “Sawasdee kha/krub” (Hello) and “Khob khun” (Thank you). Just so you can make them connect and receive friendly smiles from them.
- Be flexible and adaptable: Traveling in mountains is not always easy. You may encounter sudden rain, slippery roads, or late vehicles. Keep calm, respect the slow pace of the locals, and you will have a memorable journey.
In conclusion, travelling through Northern Thailand in 14 days is more than just a scenic journey; it’s a soulful experience. From misty mountains and ancient temples to warm smiles and rich traditions, every stop reveals a new layer of depth and beauty. Whether you seek adventure or quiet reflection, the North welcomes you with open arms and stories that linger long after you’ve returned home. So, are you ready to embark on this exciting journey to northern Thailand? Let us be your companion during your adventure to the north of Thailand!
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