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Northern Thailand

The North

The Golden Triangle is the area where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet. Locally it is known as Sop Ruak, as it is also where the Mekong River meets the Ruak River. The rivers form the natural borders between the countries. Chiang Rai is the nearest city to this point, once a hub for the opium trade it is now a laid-back destination with a diverse range of attractions. With hill tribe country on your doorstep, treks and hiking excursions are a drawcard for many visitors. Chiang Mai is high in the hills and is Thailand’s second largest city. Renowned for its colourful cultures and traditional living practices of the many hill tribes, Chiang Mai boasts a striking mountain backdrop and hundreds of temples and monasteries still alive with Buddhist monks in residence. Chiang Mai’s heart is its ‘Old City’, an area surrounded by vestiges of walls and moats adding to the city’s charm.



SOME THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN THE NORTH




Khantoke Dinner and Show EVENING KHANTOKE DINNER AND SHOW
 

The food in this region is very different to the rest of the country. Traditionally northern families sit on the floor and eat around a ‘Khantoke’, a small circular table. Enjoy a meal of several northern dishes, along with a graceful show of northern Thai dancing, including the fingernail dance.

Baan Hongnual cookery BAAN HONGNUAL COOKERY SCHOOL, CHIANG MAI
 

When cooking, various local spices that enhance your health and physical well being are used as ingredients. Visit a local market to learn how to choose produce, and learn about the herbs and spices used in Thai cooking. Proceed to the school for your cooking class followed by lunch.

Golden Triangle GOLDEN TRIANGLE
 
Drive through northern scenery and visit the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Burma and Laos meet at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong Rivers. On your return visit local hilltribe villages.
Hilltribe HILLTRIBE VISIT
 

Chiang Rai is home to Thailand’s six largest ethnic hill tribes.  Visit the Hill Tribes Museum to become familiar with the etiquette and customs before visiting one.




THE NORTH ACCOMMODATION



Here's a taste of some of our favourite hotels and resorts in Northern Thailand.
Come in-store or send us an enquiry to help us find the best accommodation option for you.

The Imperial Mae Ping
THE IMPERIAL MAE PING
★★★half star

The Imperial Mae Ping hotel is ideally located in central Chiang Mai. The hotel is a 5 minute walk from the night bazaar, only 10 minutes drive from the airport and to various cultural attractions. The 371 well furnished rooms and suites with personalised services are complemented with facilities designed to accommodate every need of business and leisure travellers.
Duangtawan Hotel Chiang Mai
DUANGTAWAN HOTEL, CHIANG MAI
★★★★
Located in downtown Chiang Mai, this large hotel offers a range of room types as well as restaurants and bars, including Malibu Bar – perfect for a cocktail. Opt for some pampering at Varee Spa offering a range of treatments all guided by the three pillars of well being, mind, body and soul.
Centara Khum Phaya Resort and Spa
CENTARA KHUM PHAYA RESORT & SPA
★★★★
Unlike others in the city, this low rise boutique resort’s design is based upon the Lanna architectural heritage. This resort offers a peaceful retreat, set in lush tropical surroundings with a full range of recreational facilities, including the large lagoon style swimming pool, swim-up pool bar, the exceptional SPA Cenvaree, two restaurants and a daily shuttle service into the city centre.
Le Meriden Chiang Mai
LE MERIDIEN CHIANG MAI
★★★★★

Inspired by its European roots within the culturally rich Lanna in northern Thailand is this well positioned hotel in the heart of Chiang Mai. Experience an intricate blend of contemporary expressions from modern interior designs, vibrant staff, high tech amenities and great restaurants and bars. To top of your stay you also have the benefits of an outdoor pool and a spa for some pampering.





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Northern Thailand holiday planning articles



Are you planning your next trip to Northern Thailand? Want to learn more about this destination? Or looking for ideas and inspiration for your next holiday? Here is where you can find our featured articles on Northern Thailand.

 




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This is just a taste of the information and advice we have available through our House of Travel consultants.
Enquire below or pop in-store and talk to one of our travel experts today.

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