Where to go in Northern Thailand and Chiang Mai

Lamphun

Wat Haripunchai temple in Lamphun, an ancient city that predates Chiang Mai by several hundred years, houses what is believed to be the largest bronze gong in the world.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Several thousand Hmong and Karen people live within the protected area of Doi Inthanon National Park, which is named after Thailand's highest mountain, the 2,595-metre-high Doi Inthanon.

Mae Hong Son

The rugged landscape bordering Burma to the west of Chiang Mai is among the most spectacular in Thailand. Mae Hong Son itself is a centre for trekking and home to numerous fine Burmese-style wats.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is the capital of Thailand's most northerly province and gateway to the infamous Golden Triangle, the meeting point of Laos, Thailand and Burma. What was once a lawless smuggling frontier is now a hub for trekking and rafting trips down the mighty Mekong River.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai serves not only as a base for great trekking, river rafting and jungle elephant treks, but also as a fascinating showcase of the north's indigenous culture.