If Thai food isn’t already your favourite cuisine then you definitely need to make a visit to the northern cities where expansive markets and bustling street vendors offer scrumptious local delicacies for incredibly reasonable prices.

Chiang Mai is the most well-known northern city for sprawling markets with plenty of choice from delicious noodle soups, spicy curries and barbequed meats with sticky rice. Don’t rule out smaller cities such as Chiang Rai with its outdoor market and live music, or Pai where street food stalls line the main street and the roti is phenomenal.

Not to miss: Khao Soi – a local dish found mostly in Chiang Mai which is a mouth-watering combination of soft and crunchy noodles flavoured with delicious spices.

Thailand is teeming with remarkable temples and there are over 300 in Chiang Mai alone. A couple of favourites include Wat Chedi Luang which is the highest point right in the heart of the old city, whilst Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple and is elegantly decorated in red lacquer, gold leaf and tinted mirror mosaics.  

One of the most unique temples in Thailand is Wat Rong Khun or ‘The White Temple’ located in Chiang Rai with its intricate and dramatic all white exterior and tiny fragments of glass to make it sparkle in the sun.

Not to miss: Spend some time exploring inside the white temple and see if you can spot any unusual characters on the walls.

Small and picturesque mountain towns dominate the northern region of Thailand and Pai is no different with its laidback nature, intimate charm and striking scenery. You’ll get the first glimpse of the verdant mountains and stunning views on the scenic drive from Chiang Mai and will soon fall in love with the laid back vibe that the town has to offer.

Once in Pai you can explore the nearby lush rice fields, marvel at lovely waterfalls or hike around the impressive canyon for breathtaking views.

Not to miss: Rise early to visit Pai Canyon at sunrise to get the best lighting for pictures that will make everyone jealous!

The elephant is a national symbol of Thailand and there are many sanctuaries in the north that offer an ethical way to spend time with and learn more about these majestic animals.

Kanta Elephant Camp offers a retirement home for elephants that have previously worked hard in the logging or tourism industry. Here you can learn about the problems elephants face in South East Asia, how they are cared for and get a chance to interact with them.

Not to miss: Spend a couple of nights at the luxurious Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort where, for a truly immersive experience, you can stay overnight in one of the transparent Jungle Bubbles.

The hills of northern Thailand is where you’ll find plenty of national parks full of jungle-clad mountains, more picturesque scenery and ample opportunity to indulge your inner adventurer.

Hike Thailand’s highest mountain in Doi Inthanon National Park, trek through the region of Chian Doa where you can visit and learn about ethnic hill tribes or visit Sri Lanna National Park where a multitude of adventurous activities are possible including cycling, swimming and kayaking.  

Not to miss: Add a night at the community run Lisu Lodge which is famed for its work in sustainable tourism and operates a number of activities including rafting and jungle trekking.

For more inspiration, visit our Thailand Holidays pages.