What is a good itinerary and travel tips for exploring Northern Thailand in December?

Northern Thailand Travel itinerary Chiang Mai Chiang Rai Nan Mai Hong Son Visa advice Car rental Local cuisine Public transport

Oct 9, 2023

a year ago

Jim ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello folks. Hope alls well?

After some advice please…

We’re looking to explore northern Thailand in December. 

My girlfriend is Thai but she’s never been to the north.

Got 12 days to spend a few days at each stop, but I’m just wondering if anyone has any input on itinerary, how we go from place to place, where best to spend time, costs, should I book tours or just explore? 

We’re gonna fly in from don Mueang to 

1. chiang rai, then to 

2. nan, then to

3. mai hong son, and finally end in

4. chiang mai

Then fly back to Bangkok 

I look forward to hearing you advice cos it’s always been super useful and funny at times too

Any input appreciated 

Have a good day

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is seeking advice on a 12-day itinerary for exploring Northern Thailand including Chiang Rai, Nan, Mai Hong Son, and Chiang Mai, with an emphasis on travel logistics, cost, and whether to book tours or explore independently. Comments suggest renting a car for flexibility and highlight various attractions, scenic spots, and local dining options, alongside tips for transportation and enjoying the cooler December weather.

Robert **********

Get the train from Bangkok to Nong Khai. You can book a rent a car to pick up in Nong Khai, drive along the Mekong to Chiang Mai and then wherever. You can arrange to leave the car virtually anywhere you want. I have done this several times, stay wherever you like for as long as you like. Or you can get the train to Nong Khai then just jump on buses to tour around. You won't have any problem finding public transport in the north and you will have a great time.

a year ago

Jacob ********

Take a look at Destinations Unknown The Roads Less Traveled on YouTube it has many great locations few if any foreigners visit. Skip Chiang Mai city and Pai just your typical overrun tourist dumps.

a year ago

Phil ******

@Jim *******

don't forget Wiang Pa Pao. Have you thought about going over the Laos border?

a year ago

Mike *******

First, I recommend you rent a car. It’ll make life much easier (and more flexible) for you and driving in the north is quite pleasant. Most companies do not charge a one way drop off fee between CEI and CNX. I usually book with Sixt, and can recommend them.

A few random suggestions:

- Not far from Chiang Rai is my favourite resort, Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa (Mae Chan)

- Tham Luang Cave (where the football team was rescued)

- Choui Fong Tea plantation, with great views and a cool cafe/restaurant

- Doi Mae Salong

- Teddu Coffee Ćafe in Mae On, a great cafe which is accessed via a short walk through tree house type elevated platforms, around one hour east from Chiang Mai (there’s also several nice homestay accommodations nearby)

- Galae Restaurant, a beautiful garden restaurant near Chiang Mai

- Some must-try northern cuisine, Khao Soi Gai, Sai Ua, Sai Krok Isan, Gaeng Hung Lay, Miang Kham (leaf wrapped bites)

Enjoy! 🖖

a year ago

Christopher *******

@Mike ******

have your thai gf look up thai rental car companies. Much cheaper. I did notice a quirk... some places will not allow you to leave chiang mai with their vehicles. A motorcycle rental place at chiang mai train station does this. They also demanded to hold onto my passport during the rental. I wasn't gonna take that risk

a year ago

Edna *******

@Mike ******

car rentals are usually available at airports. Reservations a good idea.

a year ago

Reply to

Edna *******

Rich ****

Looks like a great plan. Beautiful countryside and mountains. Nan has those terraced rice fields like you see in the photos of Bali.

a year ago

Cliff *********

1-3 are small charming cities with hardly any Farang. You will see lots of mountains and small farms and basically how Thai people live. These areas will be chilly in December so be prepared.

4 is the second largest city in the country but still much smaller than Bangkok metropolis.

You can find all sorts of things to do there but again not hordes of visitors.

Will you be renting a car or going by bus?

The roads are small and winding through the mountains so take your time.

Have a great adventure!

a year ago

Alan *********

@Cliff ********

, different sources give different results, but here is something I found interesting.

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a year ago

Reply to

Alan *********

Luc ************

Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai - Sukothai - Ayutthaya

a year ago

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