7 days, a backpack, and hidden gems of Northern Thailand are awaiting to be explored, from ancient houses amidst the lush forest of Chiang Mai to misty seas of Pai Mountain. If you seek a Thai adventure that takes you away from the bustle of Bangkok or Phuket, Northern Thailand presents a captivating destination. So when is the best time to start your journey, and what to do in Northern Thailand in 7 days? Let’s find out in this article!
Is 7 days enough to visit Northern Thailand
A week is a reasonable length to explore the charm of Northern Thailand. Firstly, the popular destinations in Northern Thailand are close, making them suitable for travelling between places. Visitors can travel by several modes of transportation, such as bus, motorbike, or private car, for flexibility and time consumption.
Secondly, northern Thailand is a diverse cultural region. For instance, Chiang Mai boasts sacred temples and bustling night markets, while Chiang Rai is home to the unique Wat Rong Khun temple. Thailand as a whole is very calm and peaceful. There is something unique about each place, which makes the experience different for each traveler.
Finally, over the course of 7 days, visitors can indulge in the local lifestyle with delicious specialities, a leisurely pace of life, and friendly locals. Many authentic experiences are waiting for you to enjoy, including cooking classes, yoga, visiting tribal villages, or simply talking to local people. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the culture of northern Thailand without having to stay here for a long time.
When is the best time to visit Northern Thailand?
The ideal time to start your journey to Northern Thailand is from November to February, when the region enters dry season. During this period, the scorching hot almost disappears, giving way to a mild, fresh, and comfortable atmosphere. This is a great time to stroll through the ancient streets of Chiang Mai, explore ancient temples, or have a leisurely coffee in nature without worrying that wind and rain will hinder the plan.
In addition to pleasant weather, Northern Thailand in the dry season showcases a poetic beauty. Visitors will witness blue, high skies, gentle sunshine, and misty mountains like ink paintings. If you are a nature lover, this is definitely the perfect time for trekking in Doi Inthanon, watching sunset in the middle of a sea , or visiting lush green tea hills in Chiang Rai. Everything is vivid and brilliant; it is no longer covered by rain or summer fog.
Particularly, if you go in November, you will have the opportunity to experience the Yi Peng Lantern and Loy Krathong festivals, two of the most special cultural festivals in Thailand. Thousands of lanterns and prayers fly into the sky, bringing a sacred and touching feeling. This is a “turning point” that many tourists see in their journey to explore Thailand. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and blend in with the local culture; these festivals will add something special to your adventure in northern Thailand!
Best time to visit Northern Thailand
What to do in Northern Thailand
As mentioned earlier, a trip to northern Thailand provides diverse experiences, from natural to cultural to authentic exploration. These following activities is suggested for a well-rounded one-week trip.
Visit famous temples in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are two cities that present a strong impression of Buddhism with thousands of sacred and unique temples. The Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most outstanding. Located on a peak at a height of 1,073 meters, this temple provides panoramic views of Chiang Mai. Visitors can drive a car or climb the ladder stones to get there.
In Chiang Rai, there is Wat Rong Khun (also called the White Temple), which boasts magical and modern beauty. The temple is as white as snow, decorated with glass and intricate tiny details that depict reincarnation, good and evil, and the desire for enlightenment. It is both religious and a unique work of art, which is difficult to see anywhere else in the world.
Wat Rong Khun
Participate Yi Peng Lantern and Loy Krathong Festivals
If you visit northern Thailand in November, do not miss this chance to participate in two of the most beautiful festivals: Yi Peng Lantern and Loy Krathong. In the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, people release thousands of lanterns into the air, creating a magical and emotional atmosphere; it feels like the whole sky is sparkling with dreams and wishes. Standing in the middle of crowds, making a wish is a unique experience, don’t you think?
Meanwhile, the Loy Krathong Festival is the occasion when participants release bouquets in the river to thank the Water God and wash away the bad luck. You can make a krathong out of flowers and banana leaves, write down your wishes, and throw it into the water. These two festivals are usually held in Chiang Mai, accompanied by many activities, such as parades, traditional songs and dances, night markets, and fireworks shows.
Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai
Experience mountain life in Pai Town
Pai is a small town located deep in Chiang Mai’s north valley, famous for its pristine beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The road to Pai winds around the mountain, with over 700 bends, but the natural scenery along the way makes the trip an exciting part of the journey. Here, you can rent a motorbike to explore Mo Paeng Waterfall and Tha Pai Hot Spring or walk through Pai Canyon at sunset.
Pai is also renowned for its beautiful cafes, rustic homestays, and small but cozy night market. You can spend a day just sitting, relaxing by the river, reading a book, or chatting with tourists from all over the world. If you want a slow journey and “healing” from the rhythm of repentance, then pai is the ideal stop.
Pai Town, Thailand
Trekking and watching sunset on Doi Inthanon
Doi Inthanon is the highest peak of Thailand (2,565 meters) and is a part of the national park of the same name. Hiking here, you will cross all kinds of primaeval forest, large waterfalls such as Wachirathan, and observation decks with panoramic views of the mountains and forests. Some tours also take you to the villages of the Karen people to explore the simple life and return to nature.
The most special thing is to watch the sunset at the top of the mountain. When the whole valley is covered with clouds, the early sun gradually dyes the fog yellow. It is a worthwhile experience, not only because of its amazing beauty but also because of the feeling of being integrated with fresh, primitive, and vibrant nature.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Visit minority villages and try to cook Thai cuisines
Northern Thailand is the home of many minorities, such as the Karen, Hmong, Akha, and Lahu. Some of them open for tourists to visit and learn about their customs, traditional crafts, and their unique costumes. You can stay with your host family, eat at home, and listen to their stories about plateau life—nature and preciousness.
In addition, many tourists’ favorite activities are Thai cooking courses in Chiang Mai. You will be guided to choose fresh ingredients from the local market and then learn how to cook traditional food, such as Thai pie, blue curry, Tom Tom,… The cooking classes are usually intimate and interesting, allowing you to take recipes home with you.
Cooking Class in Chiang Mai
Suggested itineraries to explore Northern Thailand
Itinerary 1: 7 Days Northern Thailand Discovery
Day 1: Arrival in Chiang Mai
Day 2: Chiang Mai City Tour: Visit some of the highlights of Chiang Mai, including Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chediluang, Warorot Market, and Doi Suthep Temple. These intricate architectures offer comprehensive into Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and history.
Day 3: Chiang Mai–Doi Inthanon–Mae Sariang: Explore nature in Doi Inthanon National Park to enjoy the finest waterfalls, natural trails, royal pagodas, and botoanical gardens. After that transfer to Mae Sariang a place near the border of Myanmar.
Day 4: Mae Sariang – Mae Hong Son – Pai: Admire the spectacular natural landscape of northern Thailand in Mae Hong Son, a picturesque tribe village. You will also explore the Lod Cave which means “cave with a stream running through” by a bamboo raft.
Day 5: Pai: Visit Chinese Village in Pai to experience authentic local lifestyle. Continue your journey to Yunlai, which offers breathtaking panoramic Pai’s viewpoint.
Day 6: Pai – Chiang Mai: Return to Chiang Mai and visit Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, Ban Sao Nak and Chedi Sao Lang. These all unique Thai architecture.
Day 7: Chiang Mai Departure
>>> Detailed itinerary: Here
Itinerary 2: Dream stay in Northern Thailand in 9 Days
Day 1: Chiang Mai Arrival
Day 2: Chiang Mai Exploration: Visit some of the most popular destinations in Chiang Mai, such as Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan, and San Kamphaeng District.
Day 3: Chiang Mai–Mae Hong Son: Explore the spectacular natural scenery of Watchirathan Waterfall and breathtaking panoramic views from the peak of Doi Inthanon.
Day 4: Visit Mae Hong Son: Discover wonders of Mae Hong Son, such as Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu and Su Tong Pae Bridge.
Day 5: Mae Hong Son – Pai: Embark on the adventure from Mae Hong Son to Pang Mapha district and explore Tham Lod Cave.
Day 6: Pai – Ban Tha Ton: Today, you will explore the tranquillity and idyllic beauty of Pai Town by visit Memorial Bridge, Pai Canyon and Wat Ban Den Temple.
Day 7: Ban Tha Ton–Chiang Rai: Transfer to Chiang Rai and indulge in the bustling Night Market.
Day 8: Chiang Rai–Chiang Mai: Visit famous temples in Chiang Rai, including Wat Rong Suae Ten, Singha Park Farm, and Wat Rong Khun Temple.
Day 9: Departure from Chiang Mai
>>> Detailed Itinerary: Here
Helpful tips when visiting Northern Thailand
Planning your journey through the mountainous areas of Thailand, visitors should consider it thoroughly. Here are some crucial tips to help you make the best of your time here.
- Bring appropriate clothes: If you visit northern Thailand during November and February, it might be cold in the early morning and late night; therefore, you should bring a light jacket, scarf, or windbreaker, along with cool clothes for the day. If trekking, wear comfortable sneakers and insect-proof trousers.
- Plan a reasonable itinerary: Although destinations like Chiang Mai, Pai, and Chiang Rai are not far away from each other, the terrain in mountainous areas is difficult to travel. Therefore, you should spend at least 2-3 days for each destination for a complete experience instead of “running the show”. Rest periods are also essential to avoid fatigue during the trip.
- Respect local culture: Thailand takes regional culture very seriously, especially Buddhism. Therefore you should show respect to local culture by wear neat clothes when entering When visiting a temple, please take off your shoes and avoid taking pictures too close to monks or Buddha statues. Remember to keep a serious and quiet attitude.
- Try local food but choose clean places: There are quite many dishes in northern Thailand, such as Khaosu, Saiua (Chiang Mai sausage) or South Pratt (Spicy Water). You should try restaurants where local people eat or reputable small restaurants. Avoid drinking salt water, and remember to bring digestive medicine in case it is inappropriate.
- Prepare cash: Many places in northern Thailand, especially ethnic villages or local markets, do not accept card payment. You should change some cash before you leave and withdraw more cash from ATMs in Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. Carry a small amount of cash (20, 50, 100 baht) with you for easy consumption.
- Book tickets and accommodation in advance: If you go to the peak season, festivals and Lunar New Year, you should book rooms, air tickets or travel at least 1-2 months in advance to avoid full booking or price increases.
In conclusion, a 7-day adventure to Northern Thailand serves not only as a holiday but also as a form of therapy for those seeking a temporary escape from the hectic pace of daily life. Over the course of a week, you will explore the spectacular natural landscapes, tranquil villages and delicious local cuisines. Please contact us for assistance in planning your fascinating adventure in Northern Thailand!
Read more:
