Off-the-Beaten-Path Northern Thailand Route Guide

Northern Thailand is a region you’ll never forget. With buzzy cities, show-stopping mountain ranges, oodles of culture, and a food scene that’ll revolutionize your taste buds, this is a trip you’ll never stop bragging about. 

There is a lot to see, and planning a Northern Thailand route can be overwhelming. So, we’ve created a fool-proof guide to the top destinations in this region to inspire your own journey. 

It’s time to create the trip of a lifetime. Scroll down to become a Thailand travel expert in minutes. 

About Northern Thailand

Before we jump into the Northern Thailand route guide, here’s some quick information about the area to whet your appetite. 

Northern Thailand: At a glance

Northern Thailand generally refers to the northwestern region of the country that borders Laos and Myanmar. Provinces in this region include:

• Chiang Mai
• Lamphun
• Lampang
• Uttaradit
• Phrae
• Nan
• Phayao
• Chiang Rai
• Mae Hong Son

Each province offers a rich cultural heritage and fantastic views. See as much of it as you can!

Map of Northern Thailand

This map will help you make sense of Northern Thailand. Everything is relatively close to each other, making travel a breeze.

Is Northern Thailand better than Southern Thailand?

Both Northern and Southern Thailand provide exceptional experiences. Buuut, these regions have different vibes. 

Northern Thailand is mountainous and packed with adventure activities, national parks, spiritual monuments, and ancient culture. If your ideal day is a museum hopping, hiking through the jungle, or admiring beautiful temples, you’ll love the North.

Alternatively, Southern Thailand offers secluded islands, turquoise waters, and a unique party culture. It’s also great for snorkeling, diving, and most watersports. Perfect for laid-back beach bums who enjoy a cocktail (or two).

Complete Northern Thailand route guide

Pack your backpack! Here’s a potential route that covers the Northern Thailand must-see spots. 

Getting Started in Bangkok

We know what you’re thinking. Bangkok is in the center of Thailand! But stay with us. 

Schedule a day or two there to take in the sights and sounds (and get rid of your jet lag) before you explore the northern cities. Top things to do in Bangkok include:

• Enjoy the famous street food. From skewers to fragrant rice plates, it’s a foodie’s dream.
• Visit Wat Pho, the 16th-century shrine. This is the spiritual home of Thai massage, and treatments are still available here.
• Explore Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace. Built by powerful Thai royalty, this is the city’s largest tourist attraction.
• Wander around the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Markets are a must when you’re traveling, and this is one of the largest open-air options in Asia. 
• Float down the Chao Phraya River. Book a boat trip down this buzzing waterway to see the true heartbeat of the city.
• Day Trip to Ayutthaya. You can travel from Bangkok to Ayutthaya on a quick day trip to see the ruins of the old city.  

Once you’ve seen the city’s highlights, it’s time to hit the north. Travel from Bangkok to Sukhothai to continue the tour. This takes 9.5 hours via bus or 1 hour and 20 minutes via flight. 

Sukhothai

Instagram-worthy ancient temples and mouth-watering night market street food make Sukhothai the perfect stop for foodies, historians, and culture vultures. This city isn’t always considered northern Thailand, but it’s well worth a visit on your journey. 

There’s lots to see and do in Sukhothai, so plan ahead to ensure you’re not overwhelmed. Top activities and sights include:

• Si Satchanalai Historical Park
• Wat Si Chum (Giant Buddha statue)
• Wat Mahathat
• Sukhothai Historical Park (best seen by bicycle!)
• Ban Na Ton Chan 
• Morning markets in Sukhothai’s Old City
• Heart-shaped lake at Thung Thalay Luang

The principal must-see attraction in Sukhothai is the Sukhothai Historic Park. This old city includes 21 historic sites, four large ponds, and an additional 70 sites within a 3-mile (5 km) radius. You’ll likely spend a whole day here. If you want to see the other sides, book a few extra nights!

Calling all foodies! One thing you must taste is the region’s famous dish: Sukhothai noodles! This hearty bowl is made from thin rice noodles, juicy barbecued pork, fresh lime, toasted peanuts, and crushed red chilies. Divine. 

Ready to continue? Lampang is next. If you want to skip Sukhothai and jump further north, take a flight or bus from Bangkok to Lamphun.

Lamphun

Keen to visit one of the oldest cities in the country?

Lamphun is here to indulge your wishes. With a history that dates back to the 8th century and outdates the Kingdom of Siam (what Thailand was known as before 1767), this northern city brings the history books to life. 

Popular activities here are unsurprisingly museum-based. You should visit the Haripunchai National Museum and the Lamphun Community Museum. There are also many mind-blowing temples to keep you busy, such as Wat Chammathewi and Wat Mahawan Woramahawihan. 

However, if you want to see something really unique, visit Mickey’s House. Yes, that’s right. This ancient city has a house dedicated to Mickey Mouse memorabilia. It’s totally bonkers and totally worth a visit. 

On a short schedule? You can visit Lamphun on a day trip from Chiang Mai. Coincidentally, that’s also our next stop. Let’s go!

Chiang Mai

So, you’ve traveled from Lamphun to Chiang Mai. Where should you get started in the famous mountainous city? 

From sacred temples and culinary delights to gorgeous landscapes, you’re spoilt for choice in this town. Top tourist attractions include the Wualai Walking Street, the night bazaar, and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Include these on your list if you’re pushed for time.

If you have time to spare, also see the Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Sri Suphan, Baan Kamg Wat. Any party animals should also lap up the city’s nightlife. As one of the larger urban areas in the north, this is your chance to bar hop and visit vibrant dance clubs. 

Prefer peace and quiet? Escape to the country. Day trips to the Pa Pong Piang rice terraces are a fabulous way to learn about the culture and snap photos of beautiful views. 

Fun Fact: This spot was the former seat of the Lanna Kingdom, one of the first major areas in the kingdom of Siam.

This is one of the most connected spots in the north, so your travel options are abundant. Our next journey is from Chiang Mai to Pai (available via car, bus, and minivan). 

Pai

Located deep in the northern mountains, Pai is a haven for backpackers, hippies, and anyone who appreciates a good view. From seeing the gushing waterfalls to chilling in the hot springs, this destination is the perfect place to indulge in nature’s bounty. To maximize your relaxation, spend three to four nights here.

Must-see sights and activities include:

• Pai Canyon
• Lod Cave (day tour)
• The White Buddha Statue (at sunset!)
• Pam Bok waterfall
• Mor Paeng waterfall
• Thai Pai Hot Springs

Pai is known for its alternative vibe. Don’t discount it because it’s a backpacker favorite. It’s well worth a visit for all travelers. 

Now onwards, from Pai to Chiang Rai. This takes 5 hours and 15 minutes via car.

Chiang Rai

Welcome to the northernmost city in the country! 

Situated close to the Laos and Myanmar border, Chiang Rai is a chilled-out city, especially when compared to some of Thailand’s other urban areas. 

But don’t skip out on this cultural hub. You can explore the stunning Blue and White Temples (Wat Rong Suea Ten and Wat Rong Khun) here. These jaw-dropping sites have intricate Buddhist carvings and captivating decor, making them architectural marvels. 

At sunset, you can also visit the Lady Buddha Temple (Wat Huay Pla Kang). Nothing beats watching the sunset at this majestic spot. It’s also a serene place to power down and reflect on your journey (or the exquisite food you’ll eat later).

Other must-see landmarks in this area include:

• The Black House (Baan Dam)
• Nearby rice fields and tea plantations
• Elephant Valley
• Doi Luang National Park

This city is ideal for travelers who prefer nature and culture to more party-focused towns. It’s smaller than Chiang Mai and has a quieter nightlife. Don’t confuse the two!

Now, moving swiftly on from Chiang Rai to Phayao. This marks our journey into the east of northern Thailand.

Phayao

Phayao is a hidden gem that’s (unfairly) missed by the typical tourist circuit. Cue shimmering lake views, ornate gardens, and rolling hills. This is Thailand’s natural beauty at its best. 

Whether you enjoy a fresh stir fry by Kwan Phayao Lake or visit nearby rice fields, there’s a lot to do here that gets overlooked by larger cities. 

Hikers should visit Mae Yom National Park to trek amidst the mysterious teak forest, and history buffs can study the gorgeous lakeside Wat Si Khom Kham. Here, you’ll find a 17-meter Buddha statue and an intriguing Dante-style hell and heaven sculpture garden.  

Strapped for time? You can travel from Chiang Mai to Phayao in 3 hours by car or bus for a day trip. 

Lampang

Lampang (or Nakhon Lampang) is the often-forgotten third-largest city in northern Thailand, but it’s not a tourist hotspot. Here, you can explore a charming city center without the queues. Ideal if you want authentic Thai life.

From the majestic temples to the serene river, Lampang offers time to relax and soak in the culture. Plus, it’s easily explored on foot. No need to whiz about on motorbikes or tuk-tuks here (unless you want to!)

If you find yourself in this tranquil town, make a beeline for:

• Wat Phrathat Doi Phra Chan (mountain-top temple)
• Chase Son National Park
• The Thai Elephant Conservation Center 
• Wat Si Rong Mueang (Burmese-style temple)
• Kat Kong Ta Walking Street

When you’ve had enough R&R, it’s time to move on from Lampang to Nan.

Nan

Nan is yet another spot that’s not yet on the mainstream backpacking route. But it’s worth a visit, especially before it becomes too busy. 

For centuries, this spot was an independent kingdom called Nanthaburi. The culture here is diverse and unique, so expect to see Lanna and Burmese-style temples and Chinese-influenced traditions. It’s a beautiful fusion of different societies.

Top views in Nan include the following:

• Wat Phumin
• Nan National Museum
• The Plumeria Tunnel
• Wat Ming Muang (the White Temple)
• Wat Sri Panthon (the Golden Temple)

This city also boasts some mouth-watering foods. From bua loi kai wan (small rice balls cooked with coconut cream) to ma-kawaen pepper pork ribs, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Once you’ve had your fill of unforgettable culture and food, it’s time to move on to Phrae.

Phrae 

Phrae never makes any “must-see” lists and is usually used as a stopover town. But we want to change this narrative. 

This area might be best known for teak trading, yet it has so much more to offer. Here are some of the highlights:

• The Emperor’s Cave (Tham Chakapat)
• Wat Phrathat Suthon Mongkhon Khiri
• Wat Chom Sawan
• Khum Chao Luang Museum
• Pae Mung Pee Forest Park
• Thung Hong Market

The Khum Vongburi Museum is a particularly intriguing stop. This bright pink colonial-style teak house tells the story of the province’s history. With perfectly preserved “gingerbread-style” decor, this is a never-seen-before glimpse into the province’s trading history and how the elite lived. 

Once you’ve completed Phrae, it’s time to see the last (but not least) stop: Uttaradit. 

Uttaradit

Prepare to take on the wilderness. Uttaradit is home to three national parks, mountains, and the staggering Sirikit Dam. 

Like some of the other stops on this list, Uttaradit isn’t well-known nor on the main tourist circuit. But if you have the luxury of time, it’s a great location to explore. 

Sights here include mountains, caves, and waterfalls. Uttaradit City offers a peek into Thai life, but the real gems are the national parks: Ton Sak Yai National Park, Klong Tron National Park, and Lamnam National Park.

You’ll find Ton Sak Yai National Park 56 miles (90 km) east of the city. Within this park, you can explore tropical evergreen forests, hill forests, and even deciduous forests. You may also spot black bears and wild boars, so keep a pair of binoculars on hand.

Congratulations! You’ve traveled through Northern Thailand. Take a train from Uttaradit to Bangkok to hop to the south or continue your journey elsewhere.

Weather in Northern Thailand

Be ready whatever the weather. Here’s all you need to know about the forecast. 

Northern Thailand experiences a dry season from November to early June, making it a great time to visit if you’re focused on outdoor activities, which you probably will be! Temperatures range from 25°-30°C (78°-86°F), so pack light clothing. 

In the wetter months, the temperature remains hot and humid, and you can expect highs of 33°C/91°F. Typically, the heavy rain only lasts for two to three hours per day. If you want to travel sans an umbrella, stick to the dry season.

If you want to explore when it’s not sweltering, visit during the coolest month of the year — January when averages are 23.5°C/74.3°F. 

Planning your Northern Thailand route: The takeaway

Planning any trip is exhilarating, especially if your destination has as many show-stopping spots as northern Thailand. However, it’s important to remember that no one route fits all. 

Due to time constraints, budget limitations, or personal preferences, this route might not work for you. And that’s okay! We hope it has given you a glimpse into Thailand’s rich culture and beauty and helped you pick and choose which cities you want to prioritize. 

Don’t forget! Bookaway is always here to help you 24/7. We provide digital tickets for all Thailand routes, allowing you to book on the go. 

Now get out there and enjoy!

Northern Thailand FAQ