Things To Do
in Nan
Nan is a serene province in northern Thailand known for its green valleys, limestone mountains, and slow-paced living. Its cultural heritage blends Lanna traditions with rural Thai life, making temples and markets the daily focus. The landscape ranges from cloud-dappled hills to tranquil rivers, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Visitors are drawn to friendly locals, village treks, and a less crowded gateway to northern Thailand.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Wat Phumin, a stunning temple renowned for its intricate murals. Take some time to engage with local monks and learn about their daily lives and practices. Enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast at a nearby café, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere of the town.
After lunch, head to the Nan National Museum to discover the region's history and art scene, including the impressive Lingzhi art. Explore the vibrant local markets, where you can find handcrafted souvenirs and enjoy the lively interactions with local vendors. In the afternoon, a short hike to Doi Phu Kha National Park provides breathtaking views and a chance to experience nature.
As dusk approaches, dine at a riverside restaurant, savoring local delicacies such as Khao Soi or grilled river fish. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Nan River, soaking in the tranquil ambiance under the starry sky. Conclude the evening with a visit to a local night market for shopping and tasting street food.
Embark on an early morning trek to the surrounding hills to witness the sunrise over the stunning vistas. Experience the fresh mountain air as you hike through lush forests and meet friendly hill tribe villagers. After the trek, refuel with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery.
Spend the afternoon rafting down the Nan River, enjoying the breathtaking scenery of mountains and forests lining the shores. Engage with your guide to learn about the ecology of the area and occasionally stop for a refreshing swim. Afterward, visit a nearby waterfall for a delightful picnic and relaxation.
As the sun sets, return to Nan and unwind at a local café while enjoying live music. Engage with locals as they gather, sharing stories of their land and traditions. End your day by sampling delicious desserts like mango sticky rice at a vibrant night market.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi or tuk-tuk ride (short distance) | $2-5 |
| 🍡Street food snack | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, scenic countryside and friendly locals
- Rich Lanna heritage and accessible nature nearby
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Smaller transportation network in more remote areas
- "Sawasdee ka" - Hello (female speaker)
- "Sawasdee krub" - Hello (male speaker)
- "Khob khun ka" - Thank you (female)
- "Khob khun krub" - Thank you (male)
- "Hong nam yoo thi nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Tao-rai?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Nan
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient stupa on a hill with sweeping views and nearby temple terraces.
Iconic temple with unique murals, peaceful courtyards, and a distinctive square plan.
Karst mountains, evergreen forests, and scenic overlooks ideal for landscape photography.
Golden-hour reflections along the Nan River near the city center.
Food in Nan
Nan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy pork noodle soup with chili, tomato, and local spices, a Nan specialty.
Must-Try!
Northern Thai sausage with herbs, chili, and smoky flavors.
Northern curry noodle dish with egg noodles, crisp toppings, and lime.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daytime market with fresh produce, herbs, and prepared snacks.
Evening lanes filled with grills, sticky rice, noodles, and sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove shoes; wai as a sign of respect.
Do not touch others' heads; avoid pointing feet at people or sacred objects.
Speak softly in temples and public spaces; show kindness and patience in daily interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Nan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; rounding up the bill is common in casual settings.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are available in towns and larger guesthouses; ATMs are common in Nan City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool and dry with pleasant daytime temperatures; nights can be chilly.
Hot and dry; sunscreen and hydration are essential; outdoor activities are best in the early morning or late afternoon.
Occasional heavy showers; lush landscapes and dramatic clouds; carry a light rain jacket.
Nan at Night
Hiking in Nan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails through karst landscapes with viewpoints and waterfalls.
Scenic hikes in northern Nan province with greenery and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Nan by plane.
Regional airport serving domestic flights to Bangkok and Chiang Mai; services can vary seasonally.
Major international hub with frequent connections from regional flights.
Northern hub with extensive domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Population centers around Nan City; hillside districts are home to hill tribes like Hmong and Akha in more remote areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing widely practiced and observed in gyms and events.
A popular sport in community centers and schools around Nan.
Road cycling and mountain biking in rural districts and hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for plant-based curries, tofu dishes, and vegetable stir-fries; ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste, and request vegetable-based broths.