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Nan
Nan is undoubtedly one of the most charming places in Thailand, if not the most captivating one! Its scenery and rich history give off a fairy-tale-like vibe.
It is often said that Nan represents what Chiang Mai used to look like a couple of decades ago before it became overcrowded with tourists in Chiang Mai. For this reason, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting the historic town of Nan, located in the northern region of Thailand. Its ancient buildings, museums and temples are brimming with fascinating stories and legends.
Interestingly, Nan used to be an independent country until the 1930s when it was annexed by Siam (Thailand) following the death of the last Nan King, who had no heir to succeed him. So, if you're looking for a destination rich in history and cultural heritage, Nan should definitely be on your list!
Due to its lower tourism rates compared to other parts of Thailand, Nan has been able to retain its unspoiled charm and allure. This hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic and tranquil Thai experience.
To fully appreciate the town, I highly encourage you to watch my YouTube video. It will guide you through the top attractions you should not miss.
One of the big things you should check out in Nan is the temples.
Wat Phaya Phu is a golden temple that is extremely extravagant.
As you explore the temple's stunning interior, you will be treated to a display of artwork that tells the story of Nan's rich history.
From depictions of the invasion of Nan to the devastating floods and the subsequent rebuilding of the town, each element of the artwork is beautifully executed, transporting you back in time.
Wat Phumin
Known for this painting mostly, which is believed to be a romantic gesture - not your typical temple stuff. Its a romantic place couple come to, to take a selfie with this painting.
The painting shows a guy whispering into a lady's ear, and the story goes that he's saying "Pom Rak Khun," which means "I love you." But some people think he's reciting a poem or expressing love for the world - who knows?
Anyway, regardless of what the guy's saying, the painting is just beautiful and leaves an impression. Shirts outside of the temple are sold with this picture on, me and my wife have one- you can go all Asian and have matching shirts!
The history of Nan absolutely fascinates me the history of Nan, you can learn about it all in the national museum. Housed in a striking yellow building, the museum features an impressive collection of historic artefacts.. One particularly noteworthy exhibit is the black elephant tusk, which was exclusively owned by the King of Nan, similar to the Stone of Scone in Scotland or the Crown Jewels of Britain.
Nan was independent once but is now part of Thailand.
So, if you're eager to learn more about the fascinating history of this region, be sure to stop by the National Museum in Nan.
The ancient city walls of Nan, standing resilient through centuries, are a symbol of the region's rich history. These walls, which have seen the rise and fall of dynasties, now serve as silent storytellers to joggers and visitors alike. Yes, you can jog along these historic walls. The walls of Nan thus stand not merely as a boundary of stone but as a living monument to human resilience and the timeless continuity of civilization. That is why I like a good wall anyway.
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
One of the most remarkable sights in Ayutthaya is the temple of Wat Lokayasutharam, which was founded by King U-Thong in 1357. The temple is famous for its enormous reclining Buddha statue called Phra Buddha Saiyart, which measures 7 meters in height and 37 meters in length. Some superstitious visitors believe that placing a coin on the feet of the Buddha will bring them good fortune and blessings. A visit to this temple is a must for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and tranquillity of Ayutthaya's ancient temples.
Nan is special because of its traditional architecture. Many buildings in the town centre are made entirely of wood. Even modern convenience stores like 7-11 have adapted their design to fit in with the town. They have ditched their usual brightly coloured banner for more subtle, wooden designs. This commitment to preserving traditional architecture is what makes Nan so authentically beautiful. I really hope that the town continues to maintain this character for years to come.
I really enjoyed trying out the local food in Nan. The Northern Thai cuisine is so flavorful and diverse. One dish I loved was the Khao Soi Curry, which is a delicious mix of turmeric, garlic, pickle, and spices. If you prefer less spice, you can ask for it "Mi Si Prick." They will probably ignore you anyway but its worth a shot.The Northern Thai sausage was also amazing, packed with flavours of pork, chiles, ginger, and lemongrass. The food is influenced by neighboring countries like Laos and Myanmar, so it's a great fusion of cultures. I also had a great time at Come on Bar in Pha Sing. The food was great, and the atmosphere was really nice.
Where to stay in Nan? Look no further than Baan Baan Nan Nan Library and Guest House! This place stole my heart - it's easily the best accommodation I've ever had. I typically avoid recommending specific lodging since everyone has different preferences, but when I come across a gem like this, I just have to share it.
The guest house is housed in a charming old-style building that includes a café and library on the ground floor, serving delicious coffee and offering a great selection of books. I was struck by the picturesque setting reminiscent of a fairy tale, with stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. I felt like I was in the film "Aladdin".
If you want a glimpse of what awaits you at Baan Baan Nan Nan Library and Guest House, check out my YouTube video.
Even more to do!
Wat Phumin - This temple is famous for its beautiful murals that depict the daily life of the locals in Nan.
Bo Kluea - A small village located in the mountains of Nan province, famous for its salt wells, which have been in operation for hundreds of years.
Doi Phu Kha National Park - A beautiful national park in Nan province that features lush forests, waterfalls, and scenic views.
Nan Riverside Art Gallery - A gallery showcasing the works of local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art.
Ban Nong Bua Cultural Village - A village that offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the locals in Nan, with demonstrations of weaving, cooking, and other crafts.
Discover the charming town of Nan in northern Thailand with our comprehensive travel guide. From historical sites like the Nan National Museum and ancient city walls to stunning natural attractions like Doi Phu Kha National Park, we've got you covered. Plus, find recommendations for delicious Northern Thai cuisine and top-rated accommodations like Baan Nan Nan Library and Guest House. Book your trip to Nan today and experience the beauty and culture of this hidden gem in Thailand
TRANSPORT
You can get to Nan via bus, plane or car rental.
By Air: The quickest and most convenient way to get to Nan is by air. There are daily flights from Bangkok to Nan's airport, Nan airport is located about 3 km outside of the city centre..
Scroll down to the Asia Public Transport form below to see availability.
By Bus: Nan is also accessible by bus from Bangkok and other major cities in Thailand. Buses depart from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) and take approximately 9-10 hours to reach Nan. There are also buses available from Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and other nearby cities.
See the Asian Public Transportation form below to check availability and change the departure of Bangkok, if you're not coming from there of course.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive from Bangkok to Nan. The journey takes about 9-10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
There are no trains to Nan.
Once you arrive in Nan, you can get around by renting a motorbike, taking a tuk-tuk, or hiring a car with a driver. Taxis are not widely available in Nan, so it's best to plan your transportation in advance.
ACCOMMODATION
Nan Old City: This is the historic centre of Nan, where you can find many ancient temples, city walls, and traditional wooden houses. Staying in this area will give you a feel for the local culture and history.
Pua: This is a small town located about 40 kilometres north of Nan, surrounded by mountains and forests. It's a good area to stay if you want to get away from the city and enjoy nature, Doi Pua National Park is nearby.
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