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NORTH THAILAND THINGS TO DO | Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai, Nan & Bangkok - Activities, Food & Stays

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Born in Chiang Mai, I like to think my knowledge of the north of my home country is pretty well-rounded. The north of Thailand is one of my favourite places on the planet, and I feel that it is criminally underrated; with the country being more well-...
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Chiang Mai

My beautiful hometown is the perfect blend of city living, and beautiful natural activities. From elephant walks, to a fresh smoothie bowl, Chiang Mai offers anything and everything for your relaxed trip.

 
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Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most important temple in Thailand - gold and ornate, it provides stunning views of Chiang Mai.
Doi Suthep - Mountain & Temple
 
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Incredible overnight stays in the jungle, with an elephant wake-up call!
Chai Lai Orchid Eco Lodge
 
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A handsfree and 100% ethical elephant sanctuary
Elephant Nature Park
 
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When I say the BEST smoothie bowl, I mean it.
Bobby Bowl
 
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Genuinely the best mexican food I have ever eaten (HUGE PORTIONS)
Salsa Kitchen Ruamchok
 
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Friendly owners and amazing Indian food in the heart of old town
Rajdarbar Indian Restaurant
 
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My favourite shopping mall in the entire country
Central Festival Chiangmai
 
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A trendy shopping mall for Thai teenagers
MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center
 
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The best spot for Khao man Gai / Hainanese Chicken - one of my favourite Thai meals
Nong Ho Hainanese Chicken Rice
 
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Eaten here 100+ times - pork, sticky rice and papaya salad is always amazing
Sa Hai Lab
 
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Thai black coffee delivered to your door
Kapor Indy
 
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An array of temples, street food and culture
Old City Chiang Mai
 
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The Twin Pagodas & Wachirathan Falls are must-visits!
Doi Inthanon National Park
 
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Condo accommodation; 50m pool, gym, 2 min walk from shopping mall
dcondo Sign, Chiang Mai
 
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Gorgeous apartment living for your Chiang Mai stay
Escent Ville Condo

Chiang Rai

The most stunning temples in Thailand, hands down. Chiang Rai has some well-known landmarks, but just as many hidden gems that aren't on the typical traveller's to-do list.

 
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This HUGE Chinese-Thai statue is one of my favourite places ever!
Wat Huay Pla Kang - The Goddess of Mercy
 
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One of the most famous temples in Thailand - stunning and bright, it's one of a kind.
Wat Rong Khun - White Temple
 
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So vivid and ornate, not too crowded with food and drink options on site
Wat Rong Suea Ten - Blue Temple
 
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A lush plantation with fresh food, views and green tea croissants!!
Choui Fong Tea Plantation
 
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Some questionable art to say the least; find out for yourself…
Baan Dam Museum - Black House
 
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Conservatory style cafe with gorgeous food, river views and seating
Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar
 
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My favourite accommodation I have stayed in to date! - Traditional, private and serene!
Rommai Villa Chiang Rai
 
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Royal, regal and affordable in the centre of town
Nakaraj Princess, Chiang Rai

Pai

A frequently visited location by younger backpackers and yoga-loving individuals. Pai, an ex hippie commune, is a great place to unwind and relax with some stunning views and opportunities to see some of the northern-most places in the country.

 
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A short hike to the top leads you to stunning views
Pai Canyon
 
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The perfect social hang-out spot
Two Huts, Pai
 
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Stunning scenery and a fun walk (extra points for cows)
Kho Ku So Bamboo Bridge
 
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Lots of steps with a view that's definitely worth it
Big Buddha Pai
 
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An amazing (and my favourite) sunset point in Pai - quiet and peaceful
Yun Lai Viewpoint
 
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Close to the Thai border, Burmese food is popular up north and this is a great pick
Two Sisters Restaurant
 
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Repeat after me - I love smoothie bowls
Soul Café & Shop
 
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Some INCREDIBLE Northern Thai Food
Huan Khan Tok
 
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Rice field bamboo bungalows - atmospheric and peaceful
Pai Klang Na Cottage
 
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Rarely visited village 2 hour drive from Pai - Unforgettable!!
Mae Hong Son

Nan

An up-and-coming northern province, very rarely visited by Westerners. Popular within Asia and Thailand as a holiday destination, you could be one of the first to experience authentic northern Thai food amongst various national parks and endless gree...

 
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Viewpoints, scenery and mountains!
Doi Phu Kha National Park
 
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Stunning views and great food
Ban Tai Lue Café
 
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A cafe in an abandoned tobacco factory
Rong Bom Pua Cafe
 
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Gorgeous views and such good food (mushroom tempura!!!!)
Huanam Mushroom Farm
 
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Stunning views and nice accommodation in Pua
Utopua Resort ยูโทปัวว์ รีสอร์ท
 
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A great picture opportunity!
Road Number 3

Bangkok

Is this Northern Thailand, or the centre? You decide. But it's worth adding to the list anyway! Bangkok is most likely your start point to your Thai adventure, so it only makes sense to let you know some local favourites; eats, activities and stays!

 
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Amazing coffee and desserts in a super aesthetic place
Davin Cafe
 
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Wild monitor lizards, not scary at all! (sarcasm detected)
Lumphini Park
 
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Unique and incredible - rarely visited by tourists and unforgettable
Wat Sam Phran - The Dragon Temple
 
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Have a bite to eat, row down the stream and feed the fish!
After the Rain Coffee & Gallery
 
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Incredible architecture and hours of culture and picture opportunities
The Grand Palace
 
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A collection of Thailand's most iconic landmarks replicated perfectly
The Ancient City
 
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Breathtaking - the largest hand-sculpted statue in the world!
The Erawan Museum & Temple
 
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The best mall in BKK - don't miss the nightly fountain show!
ICONSIAM
 
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Amazing all-you-can-eat (and drink) - cheap and local knowledge
VELA-Rooftop Sanam Pao