Wiang Haeng is a remote Chiang Mai district near the northern border, suited to travellers who deliberately want a rural road journey. Mae Hat Waterfall is a named nature stop within the Huai Nam Dang National Park...
Chiang Mai Provinces
Northern Thailand is made up of historic cities, mountain provinces, rural districts and smaller towns that each offer a different mix of culture, nature and local experiences. The current Chiang Mai Travel Hub province directory includes Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Lamphun, Mae Hong Son, Phrae, Nan and Phayao, as well as more localised destinations such as Pai, Mae Rim, Chiang Dao, Mae Salong, Mae Sai, Mae Taeng and San Kamphaeng.
Chiang Mai is the main visitor hub, but the wider region rewards longer road trips. Chiang Rai is strong for temples and highland scenery, Mae Hong Son for mountain routes and Pai, Lampang and Lamphun for heritage, while Nan and Phayao offer quieter alternatives with fewer crowds.
Explore Northern Thailand Provinces & Regions
- Chiang Mai – Explore historic temples, night markets, national parks, mountain attractions and districts such as Mae Rim, Chiang Dao and Mae Taeng.
- Chiang Rai – Visit the White Temple, Blue Temple, Golden Triangle, tea-growing areas and highland communities across Thailand’s far north.
- Mae Hong Son – Discover Pai, mountain roads, waterfalls, hot springs and remote scenery along the famous Mae Hong Son Loop.
- Lampang and Lamphun – Explore historic temples, traditional architecture and quieter northern Thai cities south of Chiang Mai.
- Nan, Phayao and other regions – Head farther east for mountain landscapes, lakes, temples and less-visited northern Thailand experiences.
Browse the listings below to choose a northern Thailand destination, plan a road trip or discover places beyond Chiang Mai.
Wiang Haeng
Wiang Haeng, Chiang MaiWhat are the main provinces to visit in northern Thailand?
Popular choices include Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Lampang, Lamphun, Nan and Phayao, with each offering a different mix of temples, mountains, heritage and local culture.
Which northern Thailand province is best for first-time visitors?
Chiang Mai is the main visitor hub and has the broadest mix of temples, markets, food, nature and transport connections. Chiang Rai is another strong choice for visitors interested in distinctive temples and highland scenery.
Which provinces are best for mountains and nature?
Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Nan are particularly strong for mountain scenery, national parks, waterfalls, viewpoints and scenic road trips.
Can you visit several northern Thailand provinces on one trip?
Yes. Chiang Mai works well as a starting point for trips to Chiang Rai, Lampang, Lamphun and Mae Hong Son, while longer itineraries can continue toward Nan and Phayao.