Nan Travel Guide

Although it’s one of the original seven kingdoms of Lanna, few people outside of northern Thailand have heard of Nan. This is a shame, as Nan is easily one of the most charming, uncrowded towns in the country, with temples dating from the mid-fourteenth century. It’s one of the most remote areas of Thailand but that hasn’t stopped it from becoming a popular getaway.

Tucked away in the northern corner of Thailand near the Laos border, Nan is far enough from every other major city that only the most intrepid travelers make this small town a part of their itinerary. But the mountainous region itself is awash in natural beauty, ethnic hill tribes, and historic sites. In fact, it remained an independent vassal kingdom within Siam until the early 10th century and boasted a well-established and relatively wealthy center for seven centuries.

This resulted in a legacy of very important temples and relics that are highly placed with the Fine Arts Department, one of the main draw cards of Nan Town. 

Nan Attractions

Wat Phumin

Wat Phumin is the most famous temple complex, dating from 1596 and well restored. The ancient murals in the bot are famous. The temple is home to an impressive collection of Buddhist art, as well as several beautiful murals depicting scenes from Thai history and mythology.

Wat Phra That Chae Heng

Two kilometers out of town is Wat Phra That Chae Heng, a 650-year-old enclosed complex on a hillside with large Lanna-style gilded chedis.

Wat Phra That Chang Kham

Wat Phra That Chang Kham is perhaps the most rewarding attraction; a large collection of buildings with the oldest dating from before 1450. It boasts an impressive chedi but the biggest story here involves an art historian who bought a crude Buddha image in 1955, only to discover that beneath the Sukhothai-styled exterior was a solid gold, Buddha! The abbot promptly demanded it back and it remains on display in the Wihaan.

Wat Hua Khuang

Two other ancient temples which deserve a look are Wat Hua Khuang, opposite Phra That Chang Kham, with some ancient buildings and artifacts, as well as Wat Suan Tan with its 15th-century Chedi that reveals several architectural styles.

Nan National Museum

A good place to start your history tour is at the Nan National Museum, a decent repository of exhibits covering the region’s many ethnic groups, rare Buddhist images, and other interesting relics of the Lanna kingdom. It’s housed in a regal old teak mansion and reveals the remarkable legacy of antiquity this town has. Visitors can also take part in a variety of educational programs offered by the museum.

Explore the Old City

The old city of Nan is a beautiful and historic area that is well worth exploring. The city is home to a number of temples, as well as traditional wooden houses and shophouses. Visitors can also find a variety of traditional handicrafts being sold in the old city. Don’t miss out the Kad Khuang Muang street, it’s most lively during the weekends.

Immerse in Nature

The trekking infrastructure may be missing, but there are as many outdoor activities around Nan as in Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. Treks to remote hill tribe villages and rafting along the Nan River are mainly handled by Fhu Travel Service, the town’s oldest tour operator. The uniqueness of this is a chance to visit the rare Thai Lü, Htin, and Mabri hill tribes or this northeastern region.

Go white-water rafting on the Nam Wa River

If you are looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity, then white-water rafting on the Nam Wa River is definitely for you! There are several companies that offer guided rafting trips, or you can try it on your own if you are experienced enough.

Transportation to Nan

By car: hiring a car from Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai is the most practical means of getting to Nan, as you get to enjoy the hilly scenery en route and perhaps incorporate a side trip to Phayao lakeside town.

Be warned that there are higher risks of accidents on these windy mountain roads where reckless driving is common. There is no direct road route to Nan; from Chiang Mai, you have to drive south to Denchai, beyond Lampang, and then follow the 101 northwards to Nan, taking about three hours.

From Chiang Rai you drive south via Phayao on HWY1 and then follow the 103 eastwards to meet the 101 which leads north to Nan, and also takes a total travel time of around three hours. However, there are many nice places to stop on the way if so inclined.

By bus: buses leave Chiang Mai’s Arcade Bus Terminal frequently throughout the day taking six hours. There is one bus a day from Chiang Rai (09:30, seven hours) and several from Bangkok (10-13 hours).

By air: far easier are the daily flights with Nok Air from Bangkok’s Don Muang Airport, taking roughly one hour. There are also daily Kan Air flights direct from Chiang Mai.

Nan is an exciting destination filled with culture, adventure, and relaxation. From exploring ancient temples to going on outdoor excursions—there’s something for everyone here in Nan! So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable experience in this charming city!