Things to Do in Nan
Culture, Nature & Slow Travel
Tucked into the forested highlands of Northern Thailand, Nan Province remains one of the country’s most authentic and soulful travel destinations. While it often flies under the radar compared to tourist hotspots like Chiang Mai, Nan offers visitors something far more precious—a genuine connection, peaceful landscapes, rich traditions, and an unhurried pace of life. Whether you’re an adventure traveler, a cultural explorer, or someone seeking serenity, Nan offers a range of unique experiences that make it well worth the journey.
Here’s a complete guide to the top things to do in Nan, curated for those who want to immerse themselves in its culture, explore the mountains, and discover the charm of slow travel.
Explore Nan Old Town on Foot or by Bicycle
Start your journey in the historic heart of Nan. The Old Town is a compact, walkable area filled with teakwood homes, traditional temples, colonial-era buildings, and charming cafés. Rent a bicycle and explore highlights like Wat Phumin, the Nan National Museum, and the weekend walking street.
Don’t miss:
- Wat Phumin: Famous for its ‘Whispering Lovers’ mural and unique cross-shaped architecture.
- Wat Ming Muang: Known for its intricate white stucco detailing.
- Nan Riverside Art Gallery: A serene space featuring contemporary works by local artists.
The atmosphere here is calm and friendly, with residents greeting you with warm smiles. A simple coffee or meal can turn into a meaningful conversation.
Watch the Sunrise at Wat Phra That Khao Noi
For one of the most iconic views in Nan, head to Wat Phra That Khao Noi, perched on a hill just west of town. The golden-standing Buddha statue overlooks the entire Nan valley, making it the perfect spot for sunrise.
Arrive early and either climb the naga-lined staircase or drive to the top. As the sun rises over the town, the sky turns shades of orange and pink while the city slowly comes to life below. It’s a peaceful moment of reflection that sets the tone for the day.
Take a Scenic Road Trip on Highway 1256
Highway 1256 winds through the mountains from Pua to Bo Kluea and is one of the most scenic drives in Thailand. The road curves through lush forests, passes misty peaks, and offers countless opportunities to stop for photos or explore small villages.
If you’re on a motorbike or in a car, this drive is about the journey as much as the destination. Popular stops along the way include:
- Phu Wae Viewpoint
- Café with a view in Santisuk District
- Hidden waterfalls and bamboo bridges
It’s the perfect adventure for those who like the freedom of the open road.
Visit Doi Phu Kha National Park
Doi Phu Kha is Nan’s largest and most impressive national park. With cloud forests, pine-covered ridgelines, and waterfalls, it’s a haven for nature lovers. In February, rare Chomphu Phu Kha trees blossom with pink flowers, a spectacular sight.
Things to do in the park:
- Hike to Phu Wae Peak for a panoramic mountain view
- Visit Sila Phet Waterfall, hidden in dense jungle
- Camp overnight under the stars
Whether you’re into hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in cool mountain air, this park offers a raw and rewarding natural experience.
Discover Traditional Salt-Making in Bo Kluea
Bo Kluea, or “Salt Wells,” is a quiet mountain village with a unique heritage. For over 800 years, locals have extracted salt from underground brine wells using traditional wood-fired boiling methods.
Here, you can:
- Watch the salt-making process in centuries-old huts
- Visit the small museum and buy natural salt products
- Soak in nearby hot springs or relax at a riverside homestay
The setting is peaceful, with lush rice fields, friendly locals, and wooden homes built in harmony with the landscape.
Stargaze and Camp at Doi Samer Dao
Located in Sri Nan National Park, Doi Samer Dao is known for its stunning night skies and misty sunrise views. Thanks to low light pollution, it’s one of the best stargazing spots in Thailand.
Rent a tent or bring your own. Lay back and watch as the Milky Way drapes across the sky. Wake early to see the sun rise above a sea of mist in the valleys below—a truly unforgettable moment.
Facilities are basic but sufficient, and the fresh air is invigorating.
Embrace the Slow Life in Pua District
Pua is a relaxed, rural area known for rice paddies, mountains, and Thai Lue culture. It’s a place where time slows down and the beauty of daily life shines.
Top experiences:
- Visit Wat Phuket for panoramic views of rice fields
- Join a weaving workshop at the Thai Lue Cultural Center
- Sip coffee in local cafés overlooking terraced fields
There are also many family-run homestays where you can immerse yourself in local life.
Wander Through Sao Din Na Noi’s Earth Pillars
Sao Din Na Noi is a unique natural attraction in Na Noi District. This miniature canyon features clay and sandstone formations shaped by erosion over millions of years. The landscape’s golden tones glow beautifully at sunrise and sunset.
Walk the trails, take surreal photos, and marvel at the power of time and nature. It’s unlike anything else in Thailand.
Visit Hidden Temples like Wat Nong Bua
Beyond the famous Wat Phumin, Nan is full of smaller, lesser-known temples that are just as fascinating. One standout is Wat Nong Bua in Tha Wang Pha District.
Built in 1862, the temple features vibrant murals painted by Thai Lue artisans. Unlike more restored temples, these murals retain their original color and charm. The temple is quiet, and the surrounding village is known for weaving and warm hospitality.
Try Local Cuisine and Market Food
Nan has its own culinary identity, which is influenced by northern Thai influence. Don’t miss:
- Khao Soi Nan style – creamy coconut curry noodles
- Sai Oua – local sausage made with herbs and spices
- Nam Prik Num – spicy green chili dip eaten with vegetables
Head to the evening markets near Wat Phumin or try local eateries in Pua and Bo Kluea. Food is not just a meal—it’s a gateway to Nan’s culture.
Connect with Hill Tribe Communities
Nan’s mountains are home to various hill tribe groups, including the Hmong, Mien, and Thai Lue. Many villages welcome respectful visitors interested in learning about their traditions.
You can:
- Stay in a hill tribe homestay
- Learn traditional crafts
- Participate in seasonal festivals
These experiences offer authentic cultural exchange and insight into a slower, sustainable way of life.
Take a Mindful Retreat or Digital Detox
If you’re feeling burnt out or digitally drained, Nan is the perfect place for a reset. The environment naturally supports mindfulness through quiet villages, clean air, and spiritual sites.
Spend a few days:
- Meditating at a mountain temple
- Journaling by a quiet river
- Practicing yoga or just being present with nature
Disconnect to reconnect with yourself and your surroundings.
When to Go: November to February is the best time to visit. The weather is superb, the skies are clear, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.
How to Get There: Fly from Bangkok to Nan Nakhon Airport (1 h 15 m). Alternatively, drive from Chiang Mai or Phrae via scenic mountain routes.
Stay at Visama Explorer Nan – Tented Luxury in the Mountains
Visama Explorer Nan offers a boutique glamping experience in the highlands near Bo Kluea for travelers seeking comfort and connection with nature. The property features well-appointed canvas tents with ensuite bathrooms, outdoor decks, and panoramic mountain views.
Guests can enjoy:
- Guided treks to local villages
- Morning yoga and meditation sessions
- Campfire dining with locally sourced meals
Visama Explorer Nan blends soft adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re a couple, solo traveler, or family, it’s the perfect base to explore Nan’s eastern mountains while enjoying creature comforts in a serene environment.
When to Go: November to February is the best time to visit. The weather is superb, the skies are clear, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.
How to Get There: Fly from Bangkok to Nan Nakhon Airport (1 h 15 m). Alternatively, drive from Chiang Mai or Phrae via scenic mountain routes.
Nan offers a rare chance to travel to a place and have a deeper experience of Thailand. Here, temples whisper old stories, mountains call you into silence, and people welcome you with quiet kindness. It’s a place where slow travel thrives—and where every moment becomes meaningful if you let it.
From misty mountain peaks and ancient salt wells to riverside cafés and quiet temples, Nan invites you to breathe deeply, listen closely, and explore wholeheartedly. It’s not just about where you go, but how you feel while you’re there.
Whether for a long weekend or an extended stay, the memories you make in Nan will stay with you long after the journey ends.
