Northern Thailand
A cooler, greener, and more culturally layered world than the Thailand of beaches and islands, the North is anchored by Chiang Mai — one of the country’s most beloved cities — and spreads outward into mountain landscapes, hill tribe villages, and remote border provinces. Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle carry a distinct character shaped by proximity to Myanmar and Laos, while Pai and Mae Hong Son reward those willing to venture further with scenery and stillness that feels far removed from the tourist trail.
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Our Favourite Places
Chiang Mai
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Northern Thailand’s cultural capital and one of the country’s most beloved cities, offering a compelling blend of ancient temples, creative cafés, renowned cooking schools, and mountain scenery on its doorstep. The old city moat area is walkable and full of character, while the surrounding hills give easy access to trekking, elephant sanctuaries, and hill tribe villages.
Chiang Rai
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Golden Triangle
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Where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet at the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak rivers, forming one of Southeast Asia’s most storied and historically charged landscapes. The Hall of Opium Museum offers a serious and well-presented account of the region’s complex history with the drug trade, and river views across to the neighbouring countries are genuinely scenic.
Mae Hong Son
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A remote mountain province near the Myanmar border with a distinctly different atmosphere to the rest of Thailand — quieter, greener, and rich in the culture of local ethnic communities. Misty valleys, Karen villages, and waterfalls reward those willing to make the journey, which involves a lengthy winding road through mountain passes.
Pai
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A small valley town in the mountains northwest of Chiang Mai that has grown into one of Thailand’s most beloved slow-travel destinations. Hot springs, canyon viewpoints, bamboo bridges, and a laid-back café culture make for an easy few days of gentle exploration. For those after a relaxed, scenic base with a strong backpacker spirit, Pai delivers.
Suggested Tours
Below are a selection of our favourite sample itineraries that we have created based on our experiences of travelling extensively throughout Thailand. As with all our tours, every aspect can be tailor-made to your individual requirements.
Some of our Favourite Hotels
📍Chiang Mai
📍Chiang Rai
📍Pai
📍Golden Triangle