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From chocolate workshops to epic mountain views… these are among the greatest issues to do in Nan province, Thailand.
There’s so much to like on this quiet nook of Northern Thailand. Largely rural and sparsely populated, Nan’s sluggish tempo of life and large swathes of lush countryside are its largest attracts. You can come right here simply to flee into nature and loosen up, or wander the quiet capital’s leafy streets searching for cute cafes and hidden gems.
However there’s additionally loads of tradition and historical past to find all through the province – and many enjoyable actions to maintain travellers busy!
Discover dazzling temples and be taught native historical past within the province capital, additionally known as Nan. Lose your self on the winding mountain roads of a sprawling nationwide park – stopping off at roadside viewpoints and unimaginable espresso retailers alongside the best way.
Uncover the tradition and historical past of the world’s distinctive ethnic teams and hill tribes, or be taught concerning the former Lan Na Kingdom which as soon as integrated most of Northern Thailand.
No matter you’re into, there’s lots to entice on this fascinating and surprisingly underrated province close to the Laos border.
What follows is an expanded model of my information to Nan Province – delving deeper into all the highest sights and sights within the area.
If you happen to head to this stunning northern province, these are among the greatest issues to do in Nan…
Fast Checklist: Issues to do in the event you Solely Have a Day or Two in Nan, Thailand
If you happen to’re brief on time – right here’s a fast checklist of the can’t-miss sights in Nan Thailand. You’ll discover extra information on every one within the subsequent part.
- Take a tram tour of Nan’s Outdated Quarter for a fast overview of the primary sights.
- Swing by Wat Phumin to take a look at the murals on the metropolis’s most well-known temple.
- Head to the village of Pua (one hours drive from Nan) to take a look at Wat Phuket and the Doi Silver Museum.
- Take a chocolate workshop at Cocoa Valley Resort – or simply swing by to eat chocolate!
- Plot a street journey round Doi Phu Kha Nationwide Park. Cease at viewpoints, go to an historical salt effectively at Bo Kluea, and take a look at the waterfall within the sleepy mountain village of Sapan.
8 Issues to Do in Nan Metropolis, Thailand
1. Take a Tram Tour of Nan Metropolis Centre
For the proper introduction to Nan and a fast overview of the Outdated City, hop aboard one of many Tram Excursions of the town centre.
These cute little open-sided trams are a good way to see the highlights of Nan’s compact Outdated City centre in a single afternoon. They’ll take you previous many of the main metropolis sights and temples, generally stopping for a short while so you will get down and take images.
Good to Know: The tram excursions depart from the vacationer workplace (reverse Wat Phumin). Excursions run twice a day at 10:30am and three:30pm and value 30THB per individual. They’re solely out there in Thai in the meanwhile, however it’s nonetheless a enjoyable option to discover and also you’ll get an excellent overview. Drop pins in your Google Maps to remind your self which spots you need to come again to throughout your journey.
2. Discover Nan Outdated City
Nan’s Outdated Quarter is compact and quiet, so it’s straightforward to discover on foot or by bike. Take a stroll across the metropolis’s large, tree-lined streets searching for vibrant temples, glittering gold stupas, and different historic buildings.
Two of the primary temples within the Outdated City space, Wat Phumin and Wat Sri Panton, are listed afterward on this put up – however listed here are just a few of the opposite prime sights to look out for:
- Nan Metropolis Wall – the stays of a historic stone wall which as soon as surrounded the town.
- Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan – the “Temple of the Relic Supported by Elephants” (pictured above) options an enormous gold chedi which stands on a sq. base adorned with 24 elephant sculptures.
- Wat Ming Mueang – an intricately carved white temple house to the town pillar.
- Wat Hua Khuang – a nationwide historical monument with temples and pagodas constructed within the native Lanna artwork fashion.
- Wat Aranyawat – my private favorite; a vibrant temple advanced which homes an enormous assortment of Buddha sculptures carved from wooden.
3. Uncover the Well-known Murals at Wat Phumin
Wat Phumin is probably the most well-known and historic temple in Nan – and some of the essential in northern Thailand. It was in-built 1696 by Phra Chao Jettabutrabhrama, then ruler of the Nan Kingdom, and was depicted on the previous 1 Bhat banknotes (now not in circulation).
The within of the temple is totally lined in intricately detailed Nineteenth-century murals depicting on a regular basis life in Nan, native folklore, and Buddhist legends.
Most well-known is the “Whispering Lovers” scene, an outline of a person whispering into his lover’s ear. You’ll see copies of this picture ALL over Nan Province, from wall decorations to cute cartoon variations on t-shirts. Native legend says that in the event you declare your like to your companion in entrance of this mural, your love can be everlasting.
One wall of the murals exhibits scenes from the Buddhist Hell Realm – with some brutal punishments being dished out, presumably warning individuals away from sure sins (like adultery). See in the event you can work out which crimes match the punishments!
4. Admire the Golden Temple of Wat Sri Panton
Don’t miss the gorgeous gold temple of Wat Sri Panton whilst you’re exploring Nan.
The temple is totally lined in intricate gold carvings, and the entry steps are flanked by two statues of seven-headed nagas (legendary dragon-like creatures).
Within the courtyard in entrance of the temple, you can even see a conventional lengthy boat. Held within the Nan River, the annual Nan Lengthy Boat Pageant is without doubt one of the largest cultural occasions within the province.
5. Expertise the Thai Ritual of Giving Alms
If you happen to’re up and about at daybreak in Nan one morning, you’ll doubtless see quite a few Buddhist monks strolling the streets barefoot of their vibrant, saffron-coloured robes and holding small bowls or baskets.
That is a part of the Thai Buddhist ritual of every day Alms-Giving. Believers make choices of meals and different helpful objects, which the monks take again to their monastery to be shared. Flowers are additionally given for use as choices on the shrine.
Alms-giving is seen as a option to make advantage and earn good karma on this life. On the similar time, supporting the monks means they don’t must work and may focus all their consideration on the pursuit of enlightenment. It’s a ritual that dates again to the time of the Buddha, so it’s definitely worth the early begin to witness.
Good to know: The perfect place to look at alms-giving in Nan is on the morning market within the city centre between 5am and 7am. If you wish to participate your self, purchase some meals or helpful home goods to present as an providing. Locals guarantee me that international guests are welcome to take part, so don’t really feel uncomfortable. The monk I gave alms to was completely satisfied to see us all and didn’t appear to thoughts in any respect that I’m not a practising Buddhist.
6. Study Extra at Nan Nationwide Museum
Delve somewhat deeper into native historical past on the Nan Nationwide Museum. Sadly, this was closed throughout my go to – however it seems like a fantastic place to find the fascinating historical past of Nan Province and its individuals.
It’s housed in an impressive yellow-painted constructing which was as soon as the residence of an area nobleman, and later the city corridor. The grounds of the museum are significantly beautiful – particularly the beautiful tunnel of frangipani bushes (a well-liked photograph spot!).
7. Don’t Miss the Smallest Temple in Thailand!
Additionally on the grounds of Nan Nationwide Museum, don’t miss the smallest temple in Thailand: Wat Noy. This tiny construction on the foot of a banyan tree is so small you possibly can’t even go inside.
It was constructed for King Rama V when he visited the town within the late 1800s. The story goes {that a} nobleman instructed the king that the town had yet another temple than it truly did, so this tiny one was rapidly thrown up to make sure that the king had the proper quantity!
Inside are a number of rows of tiny carved monks. My information instructed me it’s the presence of those monks that makes Wat Noy a temple slightly than a shrine.
8. Step Again in Time on the Noble Home
Hong Chao Fong Kham – aka the Noble Home – is a 150-year-old mansion constructed from teakwood within the conventional Lanna fashion. In the present day, it homes a small museum that includes a group of antiques and artwork, and many desirable items of Lanna tradition akin to costumes, weapons, and jewelry.
Sadly, I didn’t have time to go to the Noble Home on my journey, however from what I’ve learn it’s undoubtedly value popping in in the event you’re fascinated by native tradition and historical past.
9 Issues to do in Nan Province, Thailand
9. Take pleasure in all Issues Chocolatey at Cocoa Valley
If you happen to love chocolate as a lot as I do, you NEED to go to Cocoa Valley Resort within the Pua district. About an hour from the town of Nan, this makes a fantastic day trip.
Cocoa Valley is a beautiful resort and resort set on its very personal cocoa farm. You’ll be able to go to the farm to be taught all about the place chocolate comes from. See cacao pods rising, style the fruit, and watch workers hand-sorting the dried cocoa nibs from the husks. You’ll be able to also have a go at this your self.
Subsequent, head indoors for a chocolate-making workshop. Use melted chocolate and pure toppings to craft your very personal distinctive chocolate bar!
Don’t miss the restaurant and resort
Even in the event you don’t do the workshop, it’s value visiting the Cocoa Valley restaurant for some scrumptious chocolatey treats. I’m nonetheless eager about these brownies! There’s additionally a small store promoting all-natural cocoa butter magnificence merchandise.
You’ll be able to even spend an evening at Cocoa Valley to essentially indulge your inside chocoholic! The boutique resort has a number of stunning rooms boasting epic views of the plush countryside. Some also have a bathtub on the balcony so you possibly can unwind below the celebs… maybe with a bar of chocolate or two?!
LEARN MORE: Click on right here to look at my Instagram reel of Cocoa Valley – together with contained in the resort rooms.
10. Join With Nature in Doi Phu Kha Nationwide Park
Nan’s gorgeous pure landscapes are what makes this province so particular. And among the best locations to understand them is within the mountainous Doi Phu Kha Nationwide Park.
Sitting proper on the border with Laos, this sprawling nationwide park is house to the tallest mountain in Nan Province: Phu Kha, at a top of 1980m above sea degree. The park can also be the one place in Thailand the place you possibly can see Chomphu Phu Kha, an extremely uncommon pink flower after which each the mountain and the nationwide park are named!
If you happen to don’t have lengthy to discover, attempt a mini street journey round Doi Phu Kha’s winding mountain roads*. Cease off at viewpoints such because the 1715 Viewpoint on the facet of Phu Kha Mountain, or the favored photograph spot on the snaking Avenue Quantity 3.
In case you have longer, think about spending an evening within the nationwide park to go stargazing. Rural Nan has fairly epic darkish skies anyway, so the sparsely populated nationwide park is an excellent stargazing spot. There are a number of campsites throughout the park – some even have small cabins in the event you don’t have a tent (or simply desire an actual mattress).
*If you happen to get journey sick, I like to recommend taking movement illness tablets earlier than heading into the park.
11. Go to the Sleepy River City of Pua
Take a day journey to the sleepy, sprawling district of Pua, an hour’s drive north of Nan. Sitting on the confluence of two rivers – the Pua and the Khwang – and surrounded by lush inexperienced countryside, this can be a slow-paced, tranquil city that’s a pleasure to wander round.
Pua’s relaxed vibes are engaging sufficient, however the district additionally has a number of prime sights to take pleasure in – together with the hilltop Wat Phuket temple (see the following part).
Working from the foot of Wat Phuket, Phuket Strolling Avenue is a riverside road lined with retailers and stalls. It’s a fantastic place to choose up some yummy road meals or native souvenirs.
DON’T MISS Ban Tai Lue Cafe – a cute, shabby-chic riverside cafe with nice espresso and gorrrrgeous views of the sleepy paddy fields and distant mountains of the Doi Phu Kha Nationwide Park. The iced coconut latte is scrumptious!
12. Take in the Views at Wat Phuket
One of many prime issues to do within the Pua district of Nan Province is to go to Wat Phuket. This vibrant, Lanna-style temple sits on the prime of a hill, having fun with wonderful views over the inexperienced rice fields with mountains behind.
The views are so good that there are even some heart-shaped, Instagrammable frames on the temple grounds! Contained in the temple are some vibrant murals exhibiting scenes from the Buddha’s life.
13. Uncover Yao Tradition at Doi Silver Museum
Additionally in Pua district, don’t miss Doi Silver Manufacturing facility and Museum. The manufacturing unit was based by Mr Somchai Rungrachatawanit, who realized the artwork of silver making from his father and grandfather.
Somchai opened a small museum at his manufacturing unit to showcase the tradition and heritage of the Yao individuals, a tribal ethnic group discovered within the hills of northern Thailand.
Silver performs a major function in Yao tradition. Jewelry is given as presents to infants at delivery, and will later used as a dowry for marriage. The museum is full of such jewelry, in addition to Yao costumes and different artefacts. Somchai instructed me that every time he sees a conventional design, he takes a photograph and tries to recreate it at his workshop – serving to to protect his tradition.
Don’t miss the manufacturing unit store at Doi Silver too! You’ll be able to choose up beautiful silver jewelry at wonderful costs so it’s nice for getting presents and souvenirs!
14. Unwind within the Mountain Village of Sapan
On the far facet of the Doi Phu Kha Nationwide Park lies the sleepy riverside village of Sapan, surrounded by rice paddies and rolling inexperienced mountains. If you happen to’ve been to Pai, close to Chiang Mai, it’s an identical vibe – however with out the crowds of drunk backpackers!
One of many largest attracts is Sapan Waterfall – a brief hike of about 20 minutes or so from the village. The summer season rains hadn’t kicked in but once we visited, so it wasn’t its typical spectacular self, however within the wet season (often Might to October) this waterfall is effectively definitely worth the stroll via the forest.
If you wish to really get away from all of it, there are a number of glamping resorts and homestays dotted round Sapan village. I significantly beloved the look of Sapan Dee View, the place cute safari tents had been tucked round a small rice paddy.
If you happen to go to Sapan – DON’T miss Yud Wela Cafe, a wonderful hilltop espresso store overlooking the village and surrounding farms. There’s even a wonderfully Instagrammable wood terrace (see my photograph close to the highest of this put up!). Flop on a beanbag together with your espresso to take pleasure in what may simply be the perfect espresso store view I’ve ever seen on my travels!
15. Uncover Bo Kluea Pure Rock Salt Effectively
One of many extra distinctive sights in Nan is the pure rock salt effectively within the village of Boi Kluea. Yep; salt – excessive within the mountains of landlocked Nan, miles from the coast!
The primary effectively within the village is 800 years previous: a rickety contraption constructed to tug up the salt water from an underground spring.
The water is poured into giant steel pans and boiled over a fireplace to extract the salt. You too can purchase desk salt, salt crystals, and salt-based magnificence merchandise within the village. I picked up some lime-scented bathtub salts for an at-home Thai-style foot spa!
16. Take a Picture at Avenue Quantity 3
Doi Phu Kha Nationwide Park is thought for its dramatically snaking mountain roads, and some of the winding is Freeway 1081. Cease off on the viewpoint, known as Avenue Quantity 3 on Google, to snap a photograph of this iconic street.
You’ll be able to see site visitors coming from far off – however PLEASE take care if you’re posing. It’s undoubtedly not value risking your life for this shot!
17. Strive Northern Thai Delicacies
Followers of Thai delicacies will completely love Nan Province! The delicacies within the north of Thailand could be fairly totally different to the south – so there are a whole lot of new discoveries to be made. These are just a few of the highest dishes to look out for…
- Khao soi – egg noodles and hen (or pork) in a coconut curry broth, topped with crispy fried noodles. A must-try if you’re in Northern Thailand.
- Lan Na-style Laab – a Lan Na tackle an iconic Lao dish: a chopped meat salad flavoured with floor chillies and different spices akin to cumin, star anise, and cinnamon. There’s additionally a uncooked meat model known as laab dib, made utilizing chopped uncooked beef, blood, and chilli.
- Sai Oua – a spicy pork sausage flavoured with pink curry paste and chilli.
- Nam Prik Noom Kab Moo – pork crackling served with a inexperienced chilli dip.
- Freshwater shrimp – seafood is probably not straightforward to search out in landlocked Nan, however the abundance of rivers means you will discover plenty of freshwater fish and shellfish dishes. King River Prawns are a well-liked selection – and, because the identify suggests, they’re fairly large.
- Freshwater fish – common fish in northern Thailand embody catfish, trout, and the bizarre-looking snakehead fish (I’ve to admit: I wasn’t a fan of that final one!).
Map of Issues to Do in Nan Province
Ultimate Ideas
Escaping to a lesser-visited a part of Thailand isn’t all the time easy crusing. Workers and signage at sights could have restricted or no English, so understanding what you’re could be difficult! That’s why I’ve made this information to the perfect issues to do in Nan as detailed as potential.
That stated, there are a whole lot of rewards to getting barely off the overwhelmed path. On the entire, I discovered Nan way more inexpensive than the better-known components of Thailand. We barely noticed some other non-Thai vacationers throughout our journey, hardly ever had crowds at sights, and often had the perfect views all to ourselves.
Thailand is thought for its distinctive hospitality and welcoming individuals, and Nan isn’t any totally different. It’s a wonderful, peaceable province with laid-back vibes, dramatic mountain views, tranquil rivers and luxurious countryside – in addition to a wealthy heritage and distinctive tradition to find.
Don’t miss Phrae
In case you have extra time within the space, I strongly advocate visiting the neighbouring province of Phrae. If something, this distant little area is ever extra underrated than Nan.
Phrae is a good place to find northern Thailand’s wealthy heritage and conventional crafts – akin to Mo Hom indigo dye, bamboo hat making, teak buildings, and textile weaving.
Learn Extra
The whole lot you Must Know About Visiting Nan Province
12 Issues to do in Phrae Thailand
Are there any extra nice issues to do in Nan Province, Thailand that I’ve missed off this checklist? Scroll all the way down to share within the feedback!
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