Bordered by Myanmar and Laos, characterised by forested mountains - lower extremities of Himalayan foothills - and fertile river valleys, northern Thailand encompasses part of the fabled Golden Triangle. Diverse elements, including crisp mountain scenary, exotic hill tribes, forests worked by elephants, colourful festivals, invigorating cool season weather, ancient cities, exquisite northern Thai and Burmese-style temples, and friendly people contribute to northern Thailand's enduring charm.

The most visited and the must see places for visitors to the region are : Chiang Mai and surrounding areas (including Chiang Rai) for an obligatory visit at least to Doi Suthep, the marvellous looking and well located temple outside the city of Chiang Mai. The less visited but easily reachable historical city of Lamphun can easily be visited from Chiang Mai on a day trip (or even a half-day trip).

Time can also be spent at the numerable handicrafts outlets around Chiang Mai.  Most tour operators will bring visitors to handicrafts shops on a half-day tour. But remember the tour guides, taxi drivers or anyone who brings you near a shop, will all need some commission (that is how it works here!), so it will be included in the price you pay. If you just a bit independent and have some time, get a card from the shop operators, and try to go on your own later (the shop may be even mostly empty at that time). You should get at least 20% discount on items sold.

Visiting hill tribes in the north is appealing to some, disgusting to others. In any case, two and three day trekking around Chiang Mai will (besided the visits to the hill tribes) offer good nature scenery and exercise. Or go with the flow, and take a half day tour, having some elephant riding, riding in a buffalo card, rafting etc. A one day trip up Doi Inthanon (leaving from Chiang Mai) is also a worthwhile nature experience.

Sukhothai should not be missed on a visit to the North. It is located like in the middle between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Sukhothai itself houses few good hotels, so most visitors stay for the night in Phitsanulok and visit the famous Buddha image of Phra Buddha Chinnarat there.