One Week in Thailand’s Beaches and Mountains

Think of Thailand and you’ll probably visualise spicy food, outdoor markets and world class beaches. While Thailand is definitely best known for its islands, it’s also home to a range of equally impressive mountain destinations like Chiang Mai, Pai and Mae Hong Son.

For more itineraries for different kinds of Thailand trips, see our Thailand Itineraries page.

Beach © michi_loheit

If you’re visiting Thailand for one week and prefer to spend your time outside major cities like Bangkok, splitting your week between the beach and the mountains is a great way to see more of Thailand than the average traveller.

From popular islands like Phuket and Koh Samui to off-the-beaten-path destinations, we’ve put together a detailed guide to Thailand’s beaches and mountains. Read on to discover Thailand’s best beach and mountain destinations for a one-week holiday.

Morning clouds in mountain © 79492850@N00

Days One to Four: On The Beach

Famous worldwide as the archetypal tropical beach paradise, Thailand’s islands and beach destinations range from popular and highly developed to almost completely undiscovered by mass tourism.

We’ve sorted Thailand’s beach destinations into two categories: the Andaman Coast and the Gulf of Thailand. Both parts of Thailand offer a good mix of exciting, popular destinations and quieter, laid back islands for rest and relaxation.

Check Hotel Availability And Pricing

Destination

Check-in date

Mon 09 Sep 2024

Check-out date

Tue 10 Sep 2024

Andaman Coast

Phuket

Thaïlande – Phuket – Raya Island © nicolas_vollmer_photo

• Travel Time: One hour from Bangkok by air.
• Phuket is Thailand’s biggest island and one of its most popular destinations. The island’s easy access by air — it’s just an hour from Bangkok, with its own international airport — has made it a magnet for resort developers and tourism-focused businesses.
• Although some of Phuket’s beaches are busier and more developed than those found on other islands, there are still plenty of quiet locations around the island for visitors willing to travel off the beaten path.
• Patong, Karon and Kata — three large beaches that run north to south along the bottom half of Phuket’s western coastline — are the island’s tourist hotspots. Further north, Kamala and Surin offer a quieter atmosphere and are home to several of Phuket’s ultra-luxury resorts.
• Aside from its beaches, Phuket is home to a huge range of activities, from snorkelling trips and diving to sailing, elephant trekking, wake parks and more. While it’s far from a hidden treasure, Phuket’s sheer size and variety of activities makes it a fun destination.
• Recommended for: Families, couples, high-end travel.
• Stay for: From three to four nights to the entire week, depending on your trip duration.
• Nearby: Krabi and Koh Phi Phi are a short ferry trip from Phuket.
• Click here to read our full guide to Phuket

Best Hotels in Phuket

• Renaissance Phuket Resort and Spa
  Quiet and isolated, the Renaissance Phuket Resort and Spa overlooks the Andaman Sea from its own section of Mai Khao beach. Ideal for couples that want to avoid the hustle and bustle of beaches like Patong or Kata while seeing the beach of Phuket’s coastline.
• Sugar Palm Grand Hillside Hotel
  The Sugar Palm Grand Hillside Hotel is an upmarket four-star hotel that overlooks Kata Beach — one of Phuket’s most popular beaches. A variety of rooms are available, from poolside rooms to jacuzzi suites, most of which offer unblocked sea views.
• Kata Beach Homestay and Backpacker
  Inexpensive and conveniently located, Kata Beach Homestay and Backpacker is a good budget accommodation choice located in one of Phuket’s top beach areas. Local restaurants and bars, as well as tuk tuks to other beaches, make this a great base for exploring Phuket.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang, Krabi 2012 © evoflash

• Travel Time: One hour from Bangkok by air, followed by a 30 minute taxi trip.
• Ao Nang is one of several beach resorts in Krabi Province. Although Krabi Town is the largest city in the area, Ao Nang is the region’s tourist hub, with a great selection of hotels and several good beaches in the area.
• Although Ao Nang isn’t as stunningly beautiful as other beach destinations like Railay or Koh Phi Phi, it’s easy to access (the beach is just a short taxi transfer from Krabi Airport) and ideal for travellers that want to get to the beach quickly from Bangkok.
• Longtail boats connect Ao Nang with nearby Railay Beach, making it easy to travel from hotels in Ao Nang to Krabi’s more impressive beaches during the day. Ao Nang’s wide range of bars, restaurants and hotels give it more variety than the quieter beaches in the area.
• Recommended for: Families, solo travellers.
• Stay for: Three to four nights.
• Nearby: Phuket and Koh Phi Phi are a short ferry trip from Krabi Province. Railay Beach is a short longtail boat trip away.
• Click here to read our full guide to Ao Nang

Best Hotels in Ao Nang

• Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
  Located 30 minutes from Ao Nang, Phulay Bay is an upmarket resort offering private pool villas and pavilions. Luxurious spa treatments and beachside yoga make Phulay Bay a nice place to escape from civilisation and relax for several days.
• Aonang Phu Petra Resort
  A comfortable four-star resort in Ao Nang, Aonang Phu Petra Resort has great views of Krabi’s impressive limestone cliffs. Spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi and a great swimming pool make this a good option for travellers seeking a little extra comfort.
• I Krabi Hostel Aonang
  One of several inexpensive hostels in Ao Nang, I Krabi Hostel Aonang offers a mix of dorms and private rooms. Rooms are clean and simple, with few luxuries but a convenient location close to Ao Nang’s beach life, restaurants and nightlife.

Railay Beach

Railay Beach © roberthaandrikman

• Travel Time: One hour from Bangkok by air, followed by a 30 minute taxi trip and 15 minute longtail boat transfer.
• One of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches, Railay Beach is a short longtail boat ride from Krabi’s tourist hub of Ao Nang. Although it feels like an island, Railay Beach is actually a peninsula that is connected to the mainland by limestone rock formations and dense jungle.
• Although it’s named Railay Beach, Railay is actually made up of two beaches: the stunningly beautiful Railay West and the swampier, less aesthetically pleasing Railay East. The beaches are a short distance from each other — you can walk from one to the other in five minutes.
• Quiet and relaxing, Railay Beach is a great destination for couples and families seeking a slow lifestyle. Nightlife is limited to a few beachside bars, although Railay East offers a good selection of inexpensive backpacker bars and restaurants.
• Recommended for: Couples, families.
• Stay for: Two to three nights.
• Nearby: Ao Nang is a short longtail boat ride from Railay Beach.
• Click here to read our full guide to Railay

Best Hotels in Railay Beach

• Railay Bay Resort & Spa

  One of just a few resorts located on Railay West, Railay Bay Resort & Spa is a quiet resort with direct access to the beach. Rooms range from small cottages to spacious pool villas, with great beachfront dining and a spa adding to the experience.

• Railay Princess Resort & Spa

  A four-star resort overlooking Railay East, Railay Princess Resort & Spa offers a selection of clean and spacious rooms. The resort’s elevated swimming pool and luxurious spa make it a great accommodation option for visitors that want to stay in Railay East.

• Railay Garden View Resort

  Located on Railay East — the more rugged of the two beaches in Railay — Railay Garden View Resort is an inexpensive, convenient option for budget travellers. The resort, which offers simple bungalows, is less than five minutes from the beach at Railay West.

Koh Phi Phi

Thaïlande – Ko Phi Phi – Maya Bay © nicolas_vollmer_photo

• Travel Time: Two hours from Phuket or Krabi by ferry.
• Equal parts natural beauty and crowded party hotspot, Koh Phi Phi is a small group of islands that’s easy to access from Krabi and Phuket. Phi Phi attracts tens of thousands of backpackers during the high season, making it a busy, noisy and exciting destination.
• Koh Phi Phi Don, the largest island in the archipelago and the only one with accommodation, is the centre of life in Koh Phi Phi. The island offers several beautiful beaches, with large sandbar separating the island’s main destinations and housing most of its hotels, bars and restaurants.
• Constant parties and exciting nightlife make Koh Phi Phi a fun destination for people interested in meeting other travellers. For peace and quiet, you’ll need to head to Phi Phi Don’s northern beaches, which offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Ton Sai.
• Recommended for: Backpackers, solo travellers.
• Stay for: Two to three nights.
• Nearby: Phuket and Krabi are both a short ferry ride from Koh Phi Phi.
• Click here to read our full guide to Koh Phi Phi

Best Hotels in Koh Phi Phi

• Zeavola Hotel
  Koh Phi Phi’s only five-star hotel, Zeavola Hotel is located in the quieter northern section of the island. Luxurious villas and suites, many of which have private swimming pools, make this an excellent alternative to Koh Phi Phi’s loud and busy beaches.
• Holiday Inn Resort Phi Phi Island
  Another resort in the north of Koh Phi Phi, Holiday Inn Resort Phi Phi Island offers a selection of clean and upmarket rooms with free Wi-Fi. A large swimming pool, fitness centre, spa and other facilities make this one of the best all-in-one resorts on Koh Phi Phi.
• Phi Phi Maiyada Resort
  Located at the western end of Koh Phi Phi’s busy sandbar, Phi Phi Maiyada Resort is a modern three-star hotel with a selection of clean and simple rooms. The hotel’s convenient location is a short walk from Koh Phi Phi’s nightlife but far enough away to avoid most of the noise.

Koh Lanta

• Travel Time: One hour to Krabi by air, followed by a two-hour ferry transfer.
• Quiet and uncrowded, Koh Lanta is an hour’s ferry ride from Koh Phi Phi and a world away in terms of peace and relaxation. Less developed than islands like Phuket and Koh Samui, Koh Lanta strikes a great balance between convenience and natural beauty.
• Koh Lanta has a great selection of beaches and accommodation ranging from luxurious pool villas to inexpensive bungalows. Saladan Village, located in the north, is the island’s centre of commercial activity, with a range of tour operators, restaurants and dive shops.
• Less developed than Phuket or Koh Phi Phi but with more to do than the quiet, Castaway-like islands found elsewhere in the Andaman, Koh Lanta is a good choice for couples and families seeking a quiet, peaceful alternative to Phuket or Ao Nang.
• Recommended for: Couples and families.
• Stay for: Three to four nights.
• Nearby: Koh Phi Phi is a short ferry trip from Koh Lanta, as are Krabi and Phuket.

Best Hotels in Koh Lanta

• Pimalai Resort & Spa
  Located on Kantiang Bay, one of Koh Lanta’s nicest beaches, Pimalai is a five-star resort with stunning views over the beach. Pimalai Resort & Spa’s impressive rooms, incredible pool and upmarket dining options make it a great romantic escape.
• Lanta Mermaid Boutique House Hotel
  Located in Klong Dao, Lanta Mermaid Boutique House Hotel is a simple 18-room hotel with a convenient location and comfortable rooms. The hotel’s simple but modern rooms overlook the sea or provide picturesque mountain views.
• The Metallic Hostel
  The Metallic Hostel is a clean and simple backpacker hostel located in the south of Saladan. A convenient option for budget travellers staying on Koh Lanta, The Metallic Hostel offers dorms and private rooms at affordable rates.

Koh Jum

Koh Jum © pzymax

• Travel Time: One hour to Krabi by air, followed by a 90 minute ferry transfer.
• Located halfway between Krabi and Koh Lanta, Koh Jum is a small, quiet and peaceful island with natural beaches and a selection of bungalow resorts. Largely undeveloped, Koh Jum has few luxury hotels and resorts but offers a quiet atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.
• Simple accommodation options and a good selection of local bars and restaurants make Koh Jum a fun place to relax and unwind away from Thailand’s mass tourism destinations. As there are no ATMs on Koh Jum, you’ll need to bring enough cash for your entire stay.
• Recommended for: Couples and families.
• Stay for: Two to three nights.
• Nearby: Krabi, Phuket and Koh Lanta are a short ferry trip from Koh Jum.
• Click here to read our full guide to Koh Jum

Best Hotels in Koh Jum

• Koh Jum Beach Villas
  An impressive five-star resort with a great selection of private villas, Koh Jum Beach Villas is an excellent choice for couples. The resort also offers a large beach villa for up to for six people — a good choice for families seeking a luxurious place to stay on the island.
• Koh Jum Resort
  Koh Jum Resort has 20 cottages and villas available for guests. Located a short distance from the beach on a hilltop, the resort’s restaurant and swimming pool have fantastic views over the ocean.
• Peace Paradise Resort
  Simple and inexpensive, Peace Paradise Resort is conveniently located a short walk from North Beach. The resort’s bungalows are minimal and basic but ideal for travellers seeking a low-cost accommodation option on Koh Jum.

Koh Yao

Longtail © madeleine_h

• Travel Time: One hour to Phuket by air, followed by a 60 minute ferry or 30 minute speedboat transfer.
• Located a short distance from Phuket in Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao is an archipelago made up of two large islands: Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai. Koh Yao Noi is the more developed of the two, with a selection of luxurious resorts and simple bungalows.
• Extremely quiet and relaxed, Koh Yao is a great antidote to Phuket’s crowded beaches. Thanks to its convenient location between Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao is easy to access from Phuket or the mainland for a short getaway.
• Recommended for: Couples, families.
• Stay for: Two to three nights.
• Nearby: Phuket and Krabi are a short distance from Koh Yao.
• Click here to read our full guide to Koh Yao

Best Hotels in Koh Yao

• Six Senses Yao Noi
  One of the most luxurious resorts on Thailand’s Andaman Sea coastline, Six Senses Yao Noi is made up of a range of upmarket private villas. Private beach access, excellent dining and great spa treatments make Six Senses a great choice for romantic trips.
• Villaguna Residence & Hotel
  Beautiful views over Phang Nga Bay and easy access to the beach make Villaguna Residence & Hotel a good mid-range choice on Koh Yao. This four-star hotel offers a selection of suites and pool villas for guests.
• Sabai Corner Bungalows
  Cheap and cheerful, Sabai Corner Bungalows is far from luxurious. However, its great location and good selection of beachfront cottages and bungalows makes it a good choice for visitors to Koh Yao on a limited budget.

Koh Ngai, Koh Kradan, Koh Mook and Koh Libong

Beautiful Beach © bjoern

• Located south of Koh Lanta, these four small islands in Krabi and Trang provinces are quiet and largely undeveloped, offering a Castaway-like beach experience. Accommodation is seasonal — if you’d like to visit, you’ll need to travel during the November to February high season.

Gulf of Thailand

Koh Samui


The Scent Hotel, Samui © needoptic

• Travel Time: One hour from Bangkok by air.
• The most popular island in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui has a great selection of beaches and a wide range of activities for visitors. Like Phuket, Koh Samui has an international airport that makes it easy to reach from Bangkok or major cities outside of Thailand.
• Koh Samui’s beaches range from highly developed to largely untouched by tourism. Chaweng is the island’s main tourist centre and nightlife hotspot, while beaches such as Lamai and Bophut offer a quieter, more relaxing atmosphere.
• From snorkelling and diving to elephant trekking, hiking, shooting ranges and more, Koh Samui has a huge range of tourist attractions and activities aimed at everyone from solo travellers to families with young children.
• Recommended for: Solo travellers, couples and families.
• Stay for: Three to four nights to one week.
• Nearby: Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are both accessible by ferry from Koh Samui.
• Click here to read our full guide to Koh Samui

Best Hotels in Koh Samui

• Hansar Samui Resort
  A short drive from Bo Phut, Hansar Samui Resort is a lavish five-star resort hotel with a range of luxurious rooms and suites. The hotel’s infinity pool has incredible views over the island and the Gulf of Thailand.
• Montra Hotel
  Conveniently located on Lamai Beach — a quieter, relaxing alternative to Chaweng — Montra Hotel is a four-star hotel located close to the water. The hotel’s large lap pool and garden-like grounds make it a relaxing and peaceful choice for guests.
• Pelegrin Hotel Samui
  An inexpensive boutique hotel in Bophut, Pelegrin Hotel Samui has eight guest rooms, some of which overlook the Gulf of Thailand. Air conditioned and fan rooms are available, both at prices that make the hotel a good value choice.

Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan Sunset © 131622203@N02

• Travel Time: One hour from Bangkok to Koh Samui by air, followed by a one-hour ferry trip.
• Famous, or perhaps infamous, for its Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan is a large island located a short distance from Koh Samui. Although it’s best known as a party destination, Koh Phangan also has a selection of great beaches and quiet resorts aimed at couples and families.
• Accessible by ferry from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan has long been a favourite on the Thailand backpacker itinerary. In recent years, new developments have broadened the island’s appeal and made it a popular destination for families seeking peace and quiet.
• Whether you’re searching for excitement or relaxation, Koh Phangan is sure to provide it. Since it’s a short distance from Koh Samui and Koh Tao, Koh Phangan is great for a break in between visiting the other islands in the Samui Archipelago.
• Recommended for: Solo travellers, backpackers.
• Stay for: Three to four nights.
• Nearby: Koh Samui and Koh Tao are both accessible from Koh Phangan by ferry.
• Click here to read our full guide to Koh Phangan

Best Hotels in Koh Phangan

• Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa
  Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa is a luxurious five-star resort offering sea views and a quiet atmosphere. The resort’s spacious suites and private villas make it a fantastic option for travellers seeking a high-end experience on Koh Phangan.
• Moonstone Studio
  Located close to Haad Rin, Moonstone Studio has a convenient location that puts it close to the island’s party capital but far enough away to avoid most of the noise. Ideal for visitors travelling to Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party or other events in Haad Rin.
• Thai Dee Garden Resort
  Located atop a hill a short distance from Haad Rin, Thai Dee resort is a cheap bungalow resort that’s ideal for backpackers. Rooms are simple and utilitarian but clean and priced fairly for the area.

Koh Tao

Tropical Koh Tao © gumuz

• Travel Time: One hour from Bangkok to Koh Samui by air, followed by a two-hour ferry trip.
• Famous for its excellent diving, Koh Tao is a small island located north of Koh Phangan that’s a hotspot for backpackers and solo travellers. A relaxed atmosphere and fun nightlife make Tao a great isolated, in-the-know alternative to the larger Phangan and Samui.
• Koh Tao is one of the world’s most popular dive training destinations, with a massive range of dive schools offering inexpensive Open Water diving courses. There are also several upmarket resorts on Koh Tao, most of which have opened recently due to the island’s popularity.
• Most of Koh Tao’s development is on the western side of the island. Koh Tao’s east coast is a much quieter, more relaxing destination that’s perfect for families and couples aiming to escape from the busy nightlife and beach life of the rest of the island.
• Recommended for: Solo travellers and backpackers.
• Visit for: Three to four nights.
• Nearby: Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are both accessible by ferry from Koh Tao.
• Click here to read our full guide to Koh Tao

Best Hotels in Koh Tao

• Jamahkiri Spa & Resort
  Located far from Sairee Beach and Koh Tao’s busy nightlife, Jamahkiri Spa & Resort is a quiet five-star resort that’s ideal for couples. The resort’s wide range of rooms and suites overlook the sea, making it an incredibly scenic and peaceful place to stay.
• Thalassa Hotel
  A short walk from Sairee Beach’s most popular bars and restaurants, Thalassa Hotel is a great mid-range option for travellers that want to be close to Koh Tao’s nightlife. Rooms are clean and simple but more than comfortable enough for a good stay.
• Chaantalay Hotel
  A convenient two-star hotel that’s a short walk from Sairee Beach, Chaantalay Hotel is a great choice for budget travellers. The hotel is extremely modern and clean, although guests will need to walk through several blocks of development to make it to the beach.

Koh Chang

Sunset at Koh Chang © pietromotta
• Travel Time: Five hours from Bangkok by bus, followed by a one-hour ferry trip.
• One of the largest islands in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Chang is a relaxing destination close to the Cambodian border. Ignored by tourists until the last two decades, Koh Chang offers a quiet experience similar to what travellers could once find in destinations like Phuket and Koh Samui.
• Although development has accelerated on the island in recent years, many of Koh Chang’s best beaches are relatively undisturbed and peaceful. Koh Chang’s appeal is broad, making it a good destination for couples and families as well as backpackers.
• Accessible by bus and ferry from Bangkok, Koh Chang is at least five hours from the capital. As it’s fairly isolated from the rest of Thailand’s beach destinations, Koh Chang is best visited for a long stay — spend at least four nights on the island to enjoy the best of what it has to offer.
• Recommended for: Couples, families and backpackers.
• Stay for: Four nights or longer.
• Click here to read our full guide to Koh Chang

Best Hotels in Koh Chang

• The Emerald Cove Koh Chang Hotel
  One of Koh Chang’s most luxurious hotels, The Emerald Cove Koh Chang is located on Klong Prao Beach. WIth a huge lap pool, great selection of restaurants, beachfront dining and modern rooms, The Emerald Cove is an excellent choice for couples and families seeking luxury.
• Koh Chang Paradise Resort
  One of several three-star resorts on Klong Prao beach, Koh Chang Paradise Resort is a simple, clean and comfortable accommodation option aimed at families. As well as regular bungalows, a selection of luxurious pool villas are available.
• Pajamas Koh Chang Hostel
  Inexpensive and convenient, Pajamas Koh Chang Hostel is a backpacker hostel located close to Klong Prao Beach. Rooms are clean and modern, with an outdoor pool and deck area that’s ideal for relaxing by the sea.

Koh Kut

On the Rocks © mikebehnken

• Travel Time: Five hours from Bangkok by bus, followed by a 90 minute catamaran ferry transfer.
• Located south of Koh Chang, Koh Kut (Koh Kood) is Thailand’s easternmost island. Largely undeveloped, Koh Kut is a quieter alternative to nearby Koh Chang that’s typically attracted package tourists seeking peace and quiet.
• With no nightlife and little in the way of typical tourist activities, life on Koh Kut is all about rest and relaxation. The island’s beaches are stunning and its waters clear, making it a great place to enjoy Thailand’s natural beauty without the usual crowds.
• Like most of Thailand’s less developed islands, tourism on Koh Kut is seasonal. The island is most popular from November until February during the high season, but many resorts remain open until April.

Best Hotels on Koh Kut

• High Season Resort
  Located on Khlong Chao, Koh Kut’s most popular beach, High Season Resort is a luxurious five-star resort that offers a selection of spacious pool villas. Built in 2014, it’s one of the most recent additions to the island.
• Koh Kood Beach Resort
  Located on Yai Kee Beach on the island’s western coast, Koh Kood Beach Resort is a boutique bungalow resort that’s just a few steps from the beach. The resort’s convenient beach location and large grounds make it a great place to relax while visiting the island.
• The Sunshine Resort
  The Sunshine Resort is a cheap and simple bungalow resort located on Ao Phrao, Koh Kut’s southernmost beach. The resort’s bungalows are simple but clean, with great views over the beach.

Koh Samet

Koh Samet © mark_lehmkuhler

• Travel Time: Three hours from Bangkok by bus or taxi, followed by a short ferry or speedboat trip.
• Just three hours from Bangkok by car and ferry, Koh Samet a convenient island destination for people staying in Bangkok. Although it’s not as spectacular as Phuket or Koh Phi Phi, Samet is a great choice for people that want to minimise their travel time from Bangkok.
• Koh Samet’s beaches range from crowded to quiet, with the crowds getting smaller as you get further south on the island. Since the island is a favourite weekend destination of Bangkokians, you’ll get the best deals (and the smallest crowds) if you visit between Monday and Friday.
• Recommended for: Couples and families.
• Stay for: Two to three nights.
• Nearby: Koh Samet is a short distance from Pattaya and Rayong.
• Click here to read our full guide to Koh Samet

Best Hotels in Koh Samet

• Paradee Resort
  Koh Samet’s most luxurious resort, Paradee Resort has a selection of luxurious villas aimed at guests seeking the ultimate in luxury. The resort has its own private beach away from the large crowds of Samet’s other beaches, making it a good choice for romantic weekend trips.
• Sai Kaew Beach Resort
  One of Koh Samet’s most popular hotels, Sai Kaew Beach Resort is located close to the island’s top nightlife and restaurants. A variety of bungalows and poolside villas are available, all a short walk from the beach.
• Tubtim Resort
  Tubtim Resort is a comfortable three-star resort on Tubtim Beach — a quiet, less crowded beach a short walk from Sai Kaew. The resort’s beachfront restaurant and clean sand make it a cheap, convenient option for couples and families.

Days Five to Seven: In the Mountains

Elephant © eddymilfort

• Although Thailand’s mountainous north isn’t as well known as the south, it’s just as unique and interesting to visit. From beautiful temples to stunning mountain views, the north of Thailand is a great destination that’s extremely different from the rest of the country.
• There are numerous different areas to visit in the north of Thailand. Below, we’ve listed four of the most popular destinations in Thailand’s rugged and mountainous north. Each one of these places will easily keep you occupied for three days.

Chiang Mai

Wat Phantao during Yi Peng © 69664054@N05

• Chiang Mai is the centre of life in northern Thailand. Although it has plenty of sights of its own to see, for most travellers Chiang Mai is a convenient travel hub that offers easy access to nearby mountain towns such as Pai, Mae Hong Son and Chiang Rai.
• Attractions like Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep and numerous outdoor activities in the mountains that surround the city make Chiang Mai a fun place to spend a few nights. The city’s quiet lifestyle also makes it a great place to relax after several days on any of the busier islands.
• Recommended for: Solo travellers, families and couples.
• Stay for: Two to three nights, or just stop over on the way to the mountains.
• Nearby: Pai, Mae Hong Son and Chiang Rai are all easy to access from Chiang Mai.
• Click here to read our full guide to Chiang Mai.

Getting to Chiang Mai From Southern Thailand

• As one of Thailand’s largest cities (by population, Chiang Mai is the fifth largest city in Thailand) and a major tourism destination, Chiang Mai is easy to access from Bangkok, as well as other destinations in the south of Thailand such as Phuket, Koh Samui and Krabi.
• Flights from Koh Samui to Chiang Mai are available daily via Bangkok Airways. Thai AirAsia and Bangkok Airways also offer direct flights four times daily from Phuket. There are two flights from Krabi to Chiang Mai daily via AirAsia.
• Since flights to Chiang Mai leave frequently from southern Thailand’s major hubs, getting to the city from the islands typically takes less than half a day. From Chiang Mai Airport, you can either opt to stay in the city overnight or head straight into the mountains.

Best Hotels in Chiang Mai

• Anantara Chiang Mai Resort and Spa
  One of Chiang Mai’s most luxurious hotels, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort and Spa overlooks the Ping River. The resort’s great selection of luxurious rooms and suites, large swimming pool and stunning grounds make it a good place to relax after several days in busy Bangkok.
• Golden Bell Hotel
  Located within walking distance of Chiang Mai’s city centre, the Golden Bell Hotel is a three-star hotel with a good selection of simple but comfortable rooms. The hotel’s guest rooms all include free Wi-Fi.
• Sleep Guesthouse
  Inexpensive and conveniently located inside the Old City, Sleep Guesthouse has a selection of cheap rooms in a great area. Modern decorating and clean rooms make it a great alternative to other backpacker accommodation in Chiang Mai.

Pai

Pai, Thailand © tequilapartners

• Located in Mae Hong Son Province, Pai is a picturesque small town surrounded by lush scenery and beautiful mountains. In the last decade, Pai has grown into a major tourism destination after it was featured in a popular Thai romantic comedy.
• Guesthouses, bars and restaurants make the centre of Pai feel almost like Koh Phangan or Koh Phi Phi. Travel a few minutes outside the city, however, and you’ll be surrounded by rice fields, rugged mountains and impossibly beautiful views.
• Life in Pai is quiet and relaxing, although there are plenty of activities to fill your schedule. Hot springs, elephant trekking, hiking trips, adventure rafting and other fun outdoor activities make Pai a great destination for anyone that loves adventure.
• Recommended for: Backpackers, solo travellers, couples.
• Stay for: Three to four nights.
• Nearby: Mae Hong Son is accessible via bus from Pai.
• Click here to read our full guide to Pai

Best Hotels in Pai

• Reverie Siam Resort
  An upmarket four-star hotel with great views over the north Thailand countryside, Reverie Siam Resort offers a selection of villas and bungalows. The resort is located a short distance from Pai itself, making it a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the town’s walking street.
• Kirina Retro House
  Located slightly outside Pai’s main tourist area near the town’s airport, Kirina Retro House is a quiet and calm three-star hotel. Beautiful surroundings and a pleasant atmosphere make this a great base for exploring Pai and northern Thailand.
• Pairadise Guesthouse
  Located in a quiet area across the river from Pai’s bars and nightlife, Pairadise Guesthouse is a short walk away from the town’s main attractions. Rooms are cheap and simple, with a choice of fans or air conditioning.

Mae Hong Son

The Mae Hong Son Loop © through_my_camera

• One of Thailand’s most remote tourist destinations, Mae Hong Son is a small town located deep in the mountains of northern Thailand. Difficult to access from Chiang Mai — it’s a five hour trip by minivan — the easiest way to get into Mae Hong Son is via Kan Air from Chiang Mai Airport.
• Mae Hong Son’s beautiful lake and temples make it a fun town to explore on foot. The town is surrounded by mountains and dense forest, with a great selection of waterfalls and viewpoints within trekking distance.
• Quiet and peaceful, Mae Hong Son is far less of a tourist destination than nearby Pai. The best way to enjoy what Mae Hong Son has to offer is independently — rent a motorbike and travel to Tham Pla National Park or up to Wat Doi Kong Mu for great views over the town.
• Recommended for: Backpackers, solo travellers, couples.
• Stay for: Two to three nights.

Best Hotels in Mae Hong Son

• Imperial Mae Hong Son Resort
  The Imperial Mae Hong Son Resort is a comfortable four-star hotel located a short drive from Mae Hong Son itself. The hotel’s comfortable rooms, outdoor swimming pool and remote, quiet location make it a great place to relax and enjoy the area.
• Fern Resort
  Located south of Mae Hong Son, Fern Resort is a remote Shan-style resort with 30 bungalows spread across a charming garden. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with the resort’s isolated location and natural surroundings making it a peaceful place to stay.
• Boondee House
  Located close to the centre of Mae Hong Son, Boondee House offers simple accommodation in a great location. Rooms are clean and simple but equipped with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning for a comfortable stay.

Chiang Rai

Beautiful Sights © weyes

• Home to almost 200,000 people, Chiang Rai is Thailand’s northernmost city. Dense forest and mountainous surroundings make it a great choice for visitors that want to experience Thailand’s mountains without spending hours travelling by road to Pai or Mae Hong Son.
• Famous for its excellent mountain trekking, Chiang Rai is also home to a range of impressive temples and historical attractions. From elephant trekking to visiting remote Hill Tribe villages, there’s more than enough to do in Chiang Rai to fill a four or five-day itinerary.
• Recommended for: Couples, solo travellers and families.
• Stay for: Three to four nights.
• Click here to read our full guide to Chiang Rai

Best Hotels in Chiang Rai

• Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort
  One of Chiang Rai’s most luxurious hotels, Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort is convenient located close to the Kok River. The hotel’s facilities include a large swimming pool, spa and children’s play area.
• Le Patta Chiang Rai Hotel
  Located near the centre of Chiang Rai, Le Patta Chiang Rai Hotel is a convenient four-star hotel with a selection of clean, spacious and comfortable rooms. The hotel also has a swimming pool and fitness centre for guests.
• Happynest Hostel
  Simple and inexpensive, Happynest Hostel is a low-cost backpacker hostel with a selection of dorms and private rooms available for guests. The hostel is a short walk from the commercial centre of Chiang Rai.

Bangkok and Thailand Travel Itineraries

• 1 Day In Bangkok: Must See Itinerary
  Only have 1 day in Bangkok? You can see many of Bangkok’s iconic attractions in the space of a day, plus sample some great food and enjoy the nightlife too.
• 2 Days in Bangkok Itinerary
  With just 2 days in Bangkok you still have time to enjoy its impressive cultural sites as well as its fine selection of shopping and dining. Check out this 2 day Bangkok itinerary.
• 3 Days in Bangkok Itinerary
  From temples and museums to shopping malls and outdoor markets, Bangkok has more than enough to keep you occupied for 3 days in Bangkok.
• 1 Week In Bangkok Travel Itinerary
  While most visitors spend a few days in the capital before travelling elsewhere in Thailand, it’s far from challenging to spend a week in Bangkok taking in all that the city has to offer.
• 1 Week Thailand Beaches Itinerary
  Thailand has hundreds of great beaches, ranging from large tourist resorts to remote beaches largely undiscovered by tourists. Thailand’s long coastline and wide range of destinations make it arguably Asia’s best destination for lovers of sand, sea and sun.
• 1 Week Bangkok And Mountains Itinerary
  Planning a trip to Thailand but prefer not to spend too much time on the beach? While Thailand is best known for its beautiful beaches, its capital city and mountain destinations are also great places to spend your holiday.
• 1 Week In Chiang Mai Itinerary
  Thailand’s mountainous north offers a very different experience from its famous southern beach destinations. A cooler climate, beautiful mountainous scenery and a more relaxed, laid back feel make northern Thailand a unique destination that’s worth experiencing.
• 2 Weeks In Thailand And Vietnam Itinerary
  Our Two Weeks in Thailand and Vietnam itinerary lets you see the best of two of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and rewarding destinations, all in just 14 days.
• 2 Weeks In Thailand And Cambodia Itinerary
  Our Two Weeks in Thailand and Cambodia itinerary includes everything from modern cities and relaxing beach resorts to some of the world’s most incredible historical temple complexes and ancient cities
• 3 Weeks In Thailand, Cambodia And Vietnam
  Our Three Weeks in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam itinerary lets you experience three of Southeast Asia’s most exciting, rewarding and unique countries from multiple perspectives.