Lower Northern Thailand Travel Guide
Explore the best of Lower Northern Thailand with our comprehensive travel guide covering top attractions, activities, food, cultural insights, safety tips, and more.
- Introduction to Lower Northern Thailand
- List of Places to Visit in Lower Northern Thailand
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Lower Northern Thailand
- Best Things to Do in Lower Northern Thailand: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Lower Northern Thailand
- Food and Drink Scene of Lower Northern Thailand
- Where to Stay in Lower Northern Thailand: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Lower Northern Thailand: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Lower Northern Thailand
- Best Time to Visit Lower Northern Thailand
- Do’s and Don’ts of Lower Northern Thailand
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Lower Northern Thailand: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Lower Northern Thailand
- Where to Go Next from Lower Northern Thailand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Lower Northern Thailand
Less crowded than its sibling regions, Upper Northern and Central Thailand, Lower Northern Thailand is a hidden gem that every traveler to Thailand should venture. Stretching from the city of Phitsanulok to the remote hills of Sukhothai, the region offers breathtaking scenery, rich historical sites, and tantalizing cuisine. Lower Northern Thailand is home to numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, magnificent temples, and small towns where you can experience local life and traditions. In this travel guide, we will bring to light the best of Lower Northern Thailand, including places to visit, activities to indulge in, safety tips to keep in mind, and more.
List of Places to Visit in Lower Northern Thailand
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Sukhothai Historical Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the ruins of the ancient city of Sukhothai, which was the capital of the first kingdom of Thailand in the 13th and 14th century.
- Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat: A magnificent temple in Phitsanulok featuring a bronze Buddha statue that dates back to the 13th century.
- Sri Satchanalai Historical Park: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, located near Sukhothai, known for its ancient ruins and historical significance.
Natural Attractions of Lower Northern Thailand: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Doi Phu Kha National Park: An expansive park in Nan Province, featuring waterfalls, hot springs, and hiking trails for adventurers.
- Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park: A vast national park in Phitsanulok and Loei Provinces, famous for its scenic views, stunning sunsets, and hiking trails.
- Mae Wong National Park: A wildlife sanctuary located on the border of Kamphaeng Phet and Nakhon Sawan provinces, known for its exotic flora and fauna.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Lower Northern Thailand
- Mae Hong Son Loop: A 600km-long scenic route that winds through the mountains of Lower Northern Thailand, taking you through lush forests and vast valleys.
- Phu Tub Berk: A mountain peak in Phetchabun offering various hiking trails and scenic views.
- Doi Chiang Dao: Another mountain peak in Chiang Mai Province, home to a large cave complex and numerous hiking paths leading to stunning views of the valley.
Best Things to Do in Lower Northern Thailand: Activities and Tours
- Explore the Night Markets: The region’s night markets offer a unique shopping experience, where you can buy traditional handicrafts, street food, and clothes.
- Elephant Sanctuaries: Interact with majestic elephants in the sanctuaries where they are treated ethically and sustainably.
- Homestays with Locals: Spend time with locals in small towns to experience Thai hospitality and learn about their culture.
Week-Long Itinerary for Lower Northern Thailand
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore the ruins of Sukhothai Historical Park |
| Day 2 | Hike in Doi Phu Kha National Park |
| Day 3 | Visit Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat and Phitsanulok Night Market |
| Day 4 | Visit Sri Satchanalai Historical Park and go on a homestay with locals |
| Day 5 | Trek through Mae Wong National Park and visit the Elephant Sanctuary |
| Day 6 | Drive the Mae Hong Son Loop, stop for scenic views and local food |
| Day 7 | Relax in Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park and enjoy the sunset view |
Food and Drink Scene of Lower Northern Thailand
Must-Try Dishes
- Khao Soi: A traditional soup-based dish served with crispy noodles, chicken, and coconut curry.
- Sai Ua: A Northern-style sausage made from minced pork, red curry paste, and lemongrass.
- Nam Prik Ong: A spicy dip made from minced pork and tomatoes, served with vegetables and crispy pork rinds.
Local Beverages
- Cha Yen: A sweet, milky iced tea flavored with spices like cardamom and cloves.
- Lao Khao: A strong alcoholic drink made from fermented glutinous rice.
Where to Stay in Lower Northern Thailand: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Lao-Or Hotel: A highly-rated hotel in Phitsanulok with a central location, spacious rooms, and reasonable prices.
- Baan Suan Samran: A beautiful garden resort in Sukhothai with traditional Lanna-style architecture and a serene atmosphere.
- Nansarin Hotel Nan: A cozy and affordable hotel in Nan with comfortable rooms and excellent service.
What to Buy in Lower Northern Thailand: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Handicrafts: Lower Northern Thailand is famous for handicrafts like textiles, ceramics, and woodcarving, which make for unique souvenirs.
- Herbal Medicine: The region is renowned for its herbal medicines, used for centuries by the locals to treat ailments. Popular herbal products include balm, oil, and massage creams.
- Silver Jewelry: The hill tribes in the region are skilled at crafting silver jewelry, which can be purchased as unique keepsakes.
Local Culture and Customs of Lower Northern Thailand
- Religion: Buddhism is the primary religion of Lower Northern Thailand, and visitors are expected to show respect to the monks and their traditions.
- Etiquette: Shoes must be taken off before entering houses or temples, and the head should not be touched, as it is considered sacred.
- Festivals: The region celebrates various festivals throughout the year, with the most popular being Songkran (Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights).
Best Time to Visit Lower Northern Thailand
The best time to visit Lower Northern Thailand is between November and February when the weather is dry and cool, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sight-seeing.
Do’s and Don’ts of Lower Northern Thailand
Do:
- Observe the local customs and traditions.
- Take off your shoes before entering temples or houses.
- Dress modestly while visiting religious sites.
Don’t:
- Disrespect the Buddha statues and temples.
- Show public displays of affection.
- Touch someone’s head.
Safety and Health
Safety in Lower Northern Thailand
Lower Northern Thailand is generally safe for visitors. However, it is always advisable to stay cautious and practice common sense, especially when traveling alone at night.
Health in Lower Northern Thailand
Tap water is not safe to drink in Lower Northern Thailand. Always drink bottled water and avoid raw foods and street food to ensure your health and safety.
Getting to Lower Northern Thailand: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Lower Northern Thailand
- Sukhothai Airport
- Phitsanulok Airport
- Nan Nakhon Airport
Bus Stations Near Lower Northern Thailand
- Phitsanulok Bus Terminal
- Nan Bus Terminal
- Uttaradit Bus Terminal
Other Options
Lower Northern Thailand is accessible from Bangkok by train, minivan, or private car rental.
How to Get Around in Lower Northern Thailand
The most convenient way to get around Lower Northern Thailand is by renting a car or motorcycle. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or tuk-tuk for shorter distances. Buses offer affordable public transportation options, but they may not be as reliable as private transportation.
Where to Go Next from Lower Northern Thailand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Chiang Mai: A bustling city renowned for its temples and vibrant night markets.
- Ayutthaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the ruins of the ancient city of Ayutthaya.
- Central Thailand: Explore the vibrant capital of Bangkok and the historical sites of Kanchanaburi.
Conclusion
Lower Northern Thailand is a treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders. From the ancient temples of Phitsanulok to the picturesque hills of Nan, the region offers a unique perspective into Thailand’s rich history and traditions. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture buff, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Lower Northern Thailand. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Lower Northern Thailand and have the best possible experience!
