Visit Nan, Thailand
Visiting Nan
Location
Located in the North of Thailand, Nan (น่าน) borders Laos and nestles in a remote valley of the Nan river. The province is heavily forested with arable land used mainly for agriculture. It is an ancient city steeped in history with its long association with the Lannathai culture and the Sukhothai kingdom.
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Nan is a province visited by tourists for its spectacular mountain scenery, tranquil countryside, friendly people and fascinating history and culture.
Getting to Nan
By car - about 9 hours from Bangkok and 4 hours from Chiang Mai.
By train/coach service - train to Phrae and then bus to Nan. Coach services also available departing from Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Our staff can assist you with more information.
By air - Nok Air and Air Asia operate several flights a day from Bangkok and Kan Air operates from Chiang Mai. Airport taxi and car hire is available at Nan's airport.
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Things to do
Here are just a few examples of the sights and activities in Nan:
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Wat Phumin is one of northern Thailand's most famous temples. It's renowned for its cruciform bôt that was constructed in 1596. The interiors is finely decorated with carvings and the recently-restored wall murals, depicting historic life in feudal Nan, is renowned.
Nan National Museum is in the original palace of the last two feudal lords of Nan. It is now a very accessible museum with both English and Thai signs, exhibiting a large collection of Buddha images and Lanna objects.
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Visit the local markets - the traditional market place is bustling with food, goods and activities and is the best place to see local life.
Pua - is less than an hours drive north of Nan, featuring coffee plantations, markets and rural scenery.
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Temples - Nan has many beautiful and unique temples. Mintara Hotel is conveniently located within meters of at least 5 temples.
Walking Street market - our hotel is located just a few meters from Walking Street. The street market operates on weekends and special holidays. It features local goods, souvenirs and an amazing variety of food and snacks.
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Adventure tours - Book a cycling tour of Nan city or a 2-day or 3-day rafting and/or kayaking trip in Nan Province.
Handicrafts - Good buys include local hill tribe textile, silverware, straw weavings and woodcarvings made by the Thai Lu, Hmong and Mien indigenous communities.
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Doi Phu Kha National Park - Visit the province's highest peak. There are several hill tribe communities in the park, as well as caves, waterfalls and forest walks.
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Northern Thai cuisine - Nan is one of the best places to sample Northern Thai cuisine. Its cool climate and large agricultural industry, fresh vegetables, fruits, spices and herbs are abundant and feature prominently in the region's unique dishes. It's a must-do for both local and international visitors.