Northern Thailand

Attractively located in a valley surrounded by mountains, Thailand’s second city Chiang Mai is a vibrant and bustling centre, though without the chaos of Bangkok. The city is a jumping off point for travellers looking to head into the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet, or to start a journey through Laos by boat.

In and around Northern Thailand
Though it is Thailand's second largest city, Chiang Mai has the atmosphere of a large and busy town rather than a major city, and is generally a pleasure to explore. The city rivals even Bangkok for its restaurants, though beware the chillies—the food is hotter in the north!

Old Chiang Mai, enclosed within 14th-century city walls and a moat, contains dozens of temples and narrow, meandering streets lined with small shops selling all manner of handicrafts. The famous night market is situated just outside the Old City and shouldn't be missed.

Leaving Chiang Mai, you can venture into the countryside and visit the iconic Wat Doi Suthep, a hilltop temple topped by a gleaming chedi. Stop to take in the panoramic views of the city and to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, the air filled with the sound of temple bells. Join the locals trudging the 300 or so steps to the top (or take the tram!)

In the far north of Thailand, the town of Chiang Rai is much smaller than Chiang Mai. This quiet, unassuming town has played a central role in Thailand's history, and was for many years the home of the famous Emerald Buddha statue, the country's most sacred object. A replica statue now stands where the original once did, in a small temple in the heart of town.

Chiang Rai is also a popular base for exploring the Golden Triangle and for trips out into the surrounding mountains and forest. The surrounding hills are home to several of Thailand’s ethnic minority hill tribes, and visits to their villages are one of the region's major attractions. We usually caution against visiting any of the tribal villages immediately surrounding Chiang Rai - most are tourist traps - but if you have the time to venture further into the hills you can discover remote eco-lodges located within or close to old Karen and Akha villages, which offer an altogether more authentic experience. Contact us for suggestions.