How to Spend Two Weeks in Northern Thailand

Take the stress out of planning by checking out our handy guide on how to make the most of two weeks in magical Northern Thailand. You’ll experience lush nature, diverse culture, delicious cuisine and more.
Want to visit Thailand without having to plan your own itinerary? Consider joining Culture Trip’s specially curated small-group trip to Northern Thailand.

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Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripCentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great priceAfrica
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.Day 1 & 2: Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is arguably the most popular destination in Northern Thailand, a hub for both foodies and artists. It’s easy to spend a few days (or a few weeks) here with plenty of interesting sightseeing opportunities and activities. Must-see sights in this charming city include the revered Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which provides breathtaking views over the city, Wat Chang Man (the oldest temple in the city) and a visit to some of the popular markets in the area. Wander around the old city, treat yourself to a luxurious spa treatment or partake in a hands-on cooking class.

Day 3: Chiang Dao
Chiang Dao is a nature lover’s haven ideal for both hiking and relaxing. It’s also home to the famous Chiang Dao caves, natural hot springs and the enchanting Wat Tham Pha Plong.

Day 4 & 5: Pai
Continue on to the hippie jungle paradise of Pai, a stunning town nestled in the mountains. There is ample opportunity for relaxing, exploring and eating here. It’s also a popular destination for yoga and meditation retreats as well as a health-conscious haven. Looking for a place to party? This town has a dual identity that mimics the vibe of a Thai island, only it’s in the jungle.

Day 6: Mae Hong Son
In Mae Hong Son, there are plenty of things to see and do. Check out the beautiful Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, which overlooks the town, watch locals practise tai chi around Jong Kham Lake and visit the Walking Street Night Market. Have dinner at the Salween River Restaurant followed by a few drinks at one of the nearby bars.

Day 7: Ban Rak Thai
Jump on a motorbike and enjoy the beautiful ride to the town of Ban Rak Thai. It’s the perfect out-of-town adventure – a stunning tea-growing village and settlement of former Kuo Min Tang fighters from Yunnan Province in China. It’s home to a picturesque lake, mud-brick houses and plenty of tea-tasting opportunities.

Day 8 & 9: Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is most famous for attractions such as the White Temple and the Black House, but did you know that it is also a great place to check out the thriving local art scene and try delicious local foods? There are also a host of fun activities to do, such as soaking in the Pong Phra Bat Hot Springs.

Day 10: Doi Mae Salong
For a truly stunning experience, head out of Chiang Rai and north to Doi Mae Salong, in the mountains in Chiang Rai Province and close to the border of Myanmar. The mountain was home to a Chinese military division settlement; today, numerous hill tribe communities still call the area home. For the optimal experience, hire a motorbike and drive the stunningly beautiful Highway 1234. Mae Salong village offers stunning nature, tea-tasting opportunities and the chance to immerse oneself in rural village life.

Day 11 & 12: Golden Triangle and Chiang Saen
The Golden Triangle is a popular tourist destination where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos converge. Escape the crowds and head to Chiang Saen, the oldest town in Thailand. Travel back in time as you learn about the country’s rich history, sit on the banks of the mighty Mekong River and mingle with locals in the evening market.

Day 13: Nan
Experience authentic Northern Thailand in rural Nan. Stop by the Blessing Buddha at Wat Phra That Khao Noi, discover the Nan Riverside Art Gallery or marvel at the vegetable-dyed frescos at Wat Phumin. If you are in search of an active adventure, head to Doi Phu Kha National Park to see rare plant species and rock formations.

Day 14: Phrae
End your Northern Thai adventure in Phrae, home to the famed Phae Mueang Phi Forest Park and the indigo-dyed textile village of Ban Thung Hong. Wat Luang is the oldest and one of the most revered temples in Phrae, dating back to the 12th century, and well worth checking out. Also of interest to see is the Thai and European architecture mix at Khum Chao Luang Museum.

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meet our Local Insider
Hanna

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!


Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.


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