Things to Do in Upper North Thailand – Unique Treks & Elephant Parks

Upper North Thailand, known as the Lanna, features mountainous landscapes and is known for its ancient cultures. Home to the country’s highest peaks and a dazzling range of historic and cultural attractions, Upper North Thailand promises visitors an unforgettable visit. To find hotels or resorts in the Lanna, travelers can rely on Agoda for the best deals.

Chiang Rai

Situated near the borders of Myanmar and Laos, Chiang Rai is Thailand’s northernmost province. The city of Chiang Rai makes a terrific base for exploring the province’s myriad of natural and cultural attractions.

• Choui Fong Tea – Choui Fong Tea is a beautiful tea plantation that features tours and world-class teas.
• Singha Park Chiang Rai – Visitors flock to Singha Park Chiang Rai to witness its tranquil tea plantations and serene atmosphere.
• Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) – Known as the Temple of the Dancing Tiger, Wat Rong Suea Ten boasts an exquisitely carved and elaborately decorated exterior that includes both sapphire and golden hues.
• Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) – Wat Rong Khun, known as the White Temple, is easily one of the nation’s most recognizable temples. In addition to its white facade, it houses Buddhist relics, an art gallery, and a meditation hall.
• Wat Huay Kang – Known as the Big Buddha of Chiang Rai, Wat Huay Kang features a mix of Thai, Lanna, and Chinese styles.
• Baan Dam Museum – An unusual example of contemporary Thai architecture, the Baan Dam Museum is a cultural learning center and exhibition space.
• Mae Fah Luang Arboretum – The Mae Fah Luang Arboretum is an area attraction that’s known for its royal villa and expedition hall as well as its tropical gardens and bright botanicals.

Lampang

A major center of the historic Lanna Kingdom, Lampang is known for its picturesque river valleys and diverse cultural heritage. Visitors flock to the area to enjoy its nostalgic ambience.

• Wat Phra That Lampang Luang Temple – Wat Phra That Lampang Luang Temple is a Lanna temple that dates to 1476. Some people believe it may be the oldest wooden temple in the country.
• Thai Elephant Conservation Center – The Thai Elephant Conservation Center provides sanctuary for many of the country’s beloved elephants. Visitors come to witness and learn about the elephants and their care.
• Chae Son National Park – Chase Son National Park is most famous for its hot springs. Of course, the park encompasses more than 480,000 acres, which makes it popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Kad Kongta Night Market – Visitors and locals flock to the Kad Kongta Night Market to enjoy food, beverages, and to shop for locally made handicrafts.
• Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum – Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum traces the ceramic-making heritage of the region and provides displays of ceramics in various styles.
• Nakhon Lampang Railway Station – Completed in 1916, the Nakhon Lampang Railway Station features European architectural style. As a colonial building, it remains a part of the region’s diverse heritage.
• Wat Phra Phutthabat Sutthawat – This out-of-the-way temple enshrines a footprint of the Buddha. However, the temple is on a mountaintop, which requires a bit of a trek to reach.
• Lampang Emerald Pool (Lom Phu Kiew) – The Pristine Lampang Emerald Pool is often regarded as Northern Thailand’s most enchanting water feature with its distinctively emerald hue.
• Wat Si Rongmuang – Wat Si Rongmuang is a Burmese-style temple that was built in the early 20th century. It’s interior features a golden Buddha image and bright glass mosaics.

Mae Hong Son

Located in the Shan Hills, Mae Hong Son is known for its hiking opportunities and Burmese-style temples. It’s a great jumping off point for Upper North Thailand adventures.

• Bua Tong Field, Doi Mae U Kho – Visitors flock to Bua Tong Field to see its wild sunflowers in bloom during the month of November.
• Ban Rak Thai – A picturesque village, beautiful Ban Rak Thai is surrounded by tea plantations and verdant green hills.
• Pang Ung – Pang Ung is an enchanting reservoir that’s often regarded as one of Northern Thailand’s most romantic settings.
• Tha Pai Memorial Bridge – Tha Pai Memorial Bridge spans the Pai River. The distinctive wooden bridge was built with local jungle timber hauled by elephants.
• Wat Phra That Doi Kongmu – An ancient Buddhist temple, Wat Phra That Doi Kongmu features lavishly decorated pagodas on a picturesque hilltop setting.
• Pai Canyon – Pai Canyon attract ecotourists and hikers with its trails and unique geological features. Most people can hike the canyon in a few hours.
• Thom’s Pai Elephant Camp – Thom’s Pai Elephant Camp is a sanctuary for elephants that invites visitors to interact with the creatures.
• Pai Walking Street – Visitors enjoy exploring Pai Walking Street to browse its shops or enjoy tea and treats in its cafes.

Nan

Nan features a rural setting complemented by national parks and wonderful cultural sights.

• Wat Phumin – Wat Phumin, an historic temple, is known for its exquisite carvings and delicately hand-painted surfaces.
• Wat Phra That Chae Haeng – An old Nan temple, Wat Phra That Chae Haeng features a breathtaking gilded chedi that houses a relic belonging to the Buddha.
• Doi Phu Kha National Park – Doi Phy Kha National Park features a lovely setting that includes flower meadows, lush green hills, and a diverse range of wildlife.
• Doi Samer Dao – A popular camping destination, Doi Samer Do refers to the mountain peak that attracts ecotourists to its setting.
• Nan Riverside Art Gallery – Located on the banks of the Nan River, the Nan Riverside Art Gallery features a modern setting for showcasing the work of area artists.
• National Museum of Nan – Operated by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the National Museum of Nan celebrates and displays the local art and artifacts of Nan.

Phrae

Home to ancient architecture and religious sites, Phrae is rich in culture and history. Its traditional way of life attracts many visitors to witness its towns and villages.

• Wat Phra That Cho Hae – Wat Phra That Cho Hae is a temple that features a spectacular pagoda wrapped in brass sheets. Its gleaming exterior underscores and preserved relics make it a popular pilgrimage site.
• Wat Chom Sawan – Wat Chom Sawan is a Burmese-style temple that’s noted for its marble Buddhas and exquisite lacquer work.
• Golden Rock Temple (Wat Phra That in Kwaen) – With its forest setting and distinctive rock base construction, the Golden Rock Temple, aka Wat Phra That in Kwaen) is a popular pilgrimage site in Phrae.
• Pae Muang Pee Forest Park – This forest park is unique in the region because of its barren setting that’s filled with sandstone columns that were formed by the forces of erosion.
• Doi Pha Klong National Park – Doi Pha Klong National Park features mountains, canals, and lush mixed forests. Visitors come to explore its caves and trails.
• Wiang Kosai National Park – Wiang Kosai National Park attracts visitors to its setting with its tranquil forest trails and two majestic waterfalls.
• Baan Wong Buri – Baan Wong Buri is an ornate historic house that houses antique furnishings. Visitors come to tour the structure and learn about the features within the interior.

Phayao

The perfect destination for nature tourism, Phayao is known for its caves, waterfalls, and reservoirs. Its vast wetland terrain makes for beautiful sightseeing.

• Phayao Lake – With its half-moon shape, Phayao Lake is the region’s largest freshwater lake. Its beauty draws many visitors, and many religious events and ceremonies are held there throughout the year.
• Phu Langka Forest Park – Phy Langka Forest Park is a famous protected area that features dazzling mountain views. It’s home to a wide array of wildlife, including tigers and bears.
• Phu Sang National Park – Phu Sang National Park is best known for its splendid waterfalls and lush forests. It shares a border with Laos and is well-known to international tourists.
• Doi Phu Nang National Park – With its waterfalls, tranquil pools, and lush jungle terrain, this national park beckons travelers in search of the exotic.
• Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong – Dating to the 1400s, Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong is known for its collection of carved Buddha statues. Its decorated painted and gold exterior makes it one of the region’s most recognizable temples.
• Wat Nantaram (Big Teakwood Temple of Chiang Kham Town) – Is a stunning Burmese style temple made of teakwood. Its celebrated Buddha image is also crafted from teak.

Lamphun

Celebrated for its historic sites, Lamphun is known for its beautiful lakes and mountains. It’s a great place for ecotourism.

• Pha Daeng Luang Sunrise Viewpoint – Featuring unrivaled 360-degree views, the Pha Daeng Luang Sunrise Viewpoint requires a challenging 3-hour trek ‘into the clouds,’ but many visitors believe the steep climb is worth it.
• Ko Luang Waterfall – Ko Luang Waterfall measures roughly 20 meters high. The limestone waterfall cascades into a tranquil sea blue pool that underscores the beauty of the setting.
• Tha Chomphu White Bridge – Constructed in 1959, Tha Chomphu White Bridge features a double arch construction and spans the picturesque Tha River.
• Wat San Pa Yang Luang – Known for its beauty, Wat San Pa Yang Luang is a picturesque temple that enshrines a jade green Buddha.
• Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha – Wat Phra Phuttabat Tak Pha is a celebrated temple that’s famed for its ornate Naga staircase and as well as its enshrined footprint of the Buddha.
• Lamphun Community Museum – Situated in a former royal residence, Lamphun Community Museum preserves and displays local photos and artifacts.
• Doi Khun Tan National Park – With its cool year-round climate, Doi Khun Tan National Park attracts campers and hikers with its mountain landscapes and celebrated waterfalls.

Uttaradit

With its teak forests and historic sites, Uttaradit brims with enchanted scenery. Its temples, waterfalls, and mountain views attract visitors from all over the world.

• Phu Soi Dao National Park – With its cool year-round climate, this national park attracts campers and hikers with its mountain landscapes and celebrated waterfalls.
• Saithip Waterfall – Though a small waterfall, Saithip Waterfall is, nevertheless, situated in a beautiful setting that’s so green it appears other-worldly.
• The Town Gate and Muang Laplae Museum – As a popular landmark, the Town Gate is an ornate monument and perfect for a photo moment, but the Laplae Museum offers visitors information about the gate and local history.
• Mae Phun Waterfall – Mae Phun Waterfall features cascades that gently glide down the tiers of the cliff. Surrounding foliage lends an air of enchantment to this scenic site.
• Ton Sak Yai Forest Park – Ton Sak Yai Forest Park offers visitors a tranquil green space for relaxing. Its highlight is a large teak tree within its grounds.
• Sirikit Dam – A dam on the Nan River, Sirikit Dam was completed in 1972. The dam and reservoir offer a majestic sight for visitors.
• Lam Nam Nan National Park – Visitors in search of rugged mountains and lush green forests will find both at Lam Nam Nan National Park.