Things To Do
in Nan
Nan is a small province located in northern Thailand. It is known for its stunning mountainous landscapes and serene countryside. The city of Nan itself is rich in history and culture, with temples, museums, and traditional wooden houses dotting the area.
Visitors to Nan can also explore the Nan River, go trekking in the lush forests, and experience the local way of life.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Doi Phu Kha National Park. Enjoy the serene landscape and take some beautiful photographs.
Head to Ban Tai village and explore the traditional way of life. Remember to try some local delicacies at a small eatery.
Watch the sunset from Nanview cafe while sipping on a refreshing drink. The view of the mountains during dusk is mesmerizing.
Take a scenic drive to the stunning Phu Fa Waterfall. The natural beauty will invigorate your morning.
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the waterfall. You can also swim in the cool waters if you're up for it.
Return to Nan town and consider trying a traditional Thai massage. It's the perfect way to unwind after an adventurous day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with mountains and rivers
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional Thai architecture
- Less commercialized and touristy compared to other Thai destinations
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring national parks
- Warm and friendly local community
- Limited access to international amenities and services
- Fewer healthcare facilities compared to larger cities
- Transportation options may be limited, especially for getting to other regions
- Hot and humid climate that may not be suitable for everyone
- Potential language barriers for non-Thai speakers
Best Activities in Nan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush forests and diverse wildlife while trekking to stunning waterfalls and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride around the beautiful Phayao Lake, taking in the picturesque views and stopping at local cafes and viewpoints along the way.
Embark on a relaxing boat trip along the tranquil Nan River, admiring the peaceful scenery and observing the local way of life along the riverbanks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nan
Visit one of these nice places.
This ancient temple features unique architecture and stunning murals, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Located along the Nan River, this gallery provides beautiful views and a chance to capture the natural scenery.
A hilltop temple with panoramic views of Nan and the surrounding landscape, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Nan
Nan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential northern Thai dish, Khao Soi is a rich coconut curry noodle soup topped with crunchy noodles, often served with chicken or beef. A popular spot to savor this dish is at Khao Soi Islam, right in the heart of Nan town.
Must-Try!
This flavorful Burmese-influenced pork curry is a must-try, featuring tender pork belly simmered in a rich, slightly sweet curry paste. For an authentic taste, try it at Nang Kham Restaurant, known for its traditional northern Thai dishes.
A beloved snack, Miang Kham combines an array of ingredients such as shallots, ginger, lime, peanuts, and dried shrimp, wrapped in wild betel leaves. One can sample this at the local food markets or street food stalls.
Kao Ngiao is a traditional dish of rice noodles served with a rich, flavorful sauce, often accompanied by fresh vegetables. It's a well-loved dish at Ban Rim Nam, a riverside restaurant esteemed for its authentic Nan cuisine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Saturday evening, the streets of Nan town come to life with the Nan Walking Street market. Here, you can relish an array of local delights, including skewered meats, fresh fruits, and delectable sweets, amidst a lively, vibrant atmosphere.
This market, situated along the Nan River, showcases an enticing variety of street food offerings, ranging from northern Thai snacks to regional specialties such as crispy pork and sticky rice. It's a fantastic spot to savor the local street food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to show respect for the Thai monarchy, as any disrespect towards the royal family is illegal and can result in serious consequences.
When entering someone's home or a temple, it's customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect.
Politeness and modesty are highly valued in Thai culture. It's important to use respectful language and avoid overt displays of emotion or affection in public.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nan, Thailand, tipping is not a common practice. It's not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip or rounding up the bill may be appreciated, but it's not mandatory.
The most common form of payment in Nan, Thailand is cash. Credit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's important to carry enough cash for day-to-day expenses, including dining, shopping, and transportation.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The cool season is the best time to visit Nan, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. It's also the time for the famous Bo Kluea Salt Wells Festival in November.
Hot season in Nan is characterized by high temperatures and dry weather. It's a good time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the countryside.
The rainy season brings lush greenery and occasional showers, making it a picturesque time to visit Nan. However, some outdoor activities may be limited due to the rain.
Nan at Night
Hiking in Nan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park featuring mountainous terrain and diverse flora and fauna, offering scenic hiking trails and stunning views.
Known for its lush forests and waterfalls, this park offers a variety of hiking paths suitable for different skill levels.
Famous for its breathtaking viewpoints and unique rock formations, this park is perfect for adventurous hikers.
A tranquil park with a range of hiking trails, featuring diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes.
A relatively easy hike that takes you through local communities and beautiful scenery, ideal for families.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nan by plane.
The nearest major international airport located approximately 200 kilometers from Nan, offering flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Located in Bangkok, approximately 600 kilometers from Nan, this airport serves as a hub for both domestic and international flights.
Bangkok's main international airport, around 600 kilometers from Nan, it is one of the busiest airports in Southeast Asia, connecting to numerous global destinations.
Situated about 350 kilometers away from Nan, this airport provides access to both domestic flights and some international connections, including flights to Laos.
Located approximately 900 kilometers from Nan, this airport is a major hub for flights to and from various countries and domestic locations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Thailand, with a significant presence in Nan province.
A prominent ethnic group in the region, particularly in areas close to the border with Laos.
A hill tribe group known for their distinct culture and traditions, residing in the mountainous areas.
Another hill tribe community, engaged in agriculture and known for their unique clothing.
An ethnic group that resides in the hilly and forested areas, traditionally known for their weaving.
A smaller group found in some parts of Nan with cultural ties to Cambodia.
The Soul of Nan
Discover the essence of Nan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art and combat sport from Thailand, known for its striking techniques using punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes.
A widely popular team sport in Thailand, played at both amateur and professional levels, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
A popular sport in schools and communities, with both indoor and beach volleyball being played in various local tournaments.
A traditional sport in Thailand similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball and involves using feet, head, knees, and chest to hit the ball over a net.
Gaining popularity in schools and urban areas, basketball is played among youth and community teams, with local leagues and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Nan's culinary scene is relatively accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many establishments offering an array of meat-free dishes such as curries, stir-fries, and salads, showcasing the region's fresh produce and local flavors.
Though gluten-free options may be limited in some local eateries, many restaurants are mindful of dietary needs and are willing to customize dishes accordingly. It's advisable to communicate your requirements clearly to ensure a gratifying dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nan with these cultural adventures.
