A Guide to Northern Thailand

The North abounds with many natural attractions such as mountain scenery, caves,
natural forests, ridges and deep, narrow, alluvial valleys, waterfalls, and lakes. It
occupies an approximate area of 17, s!uare kilometers. The temperature in
mountainous area is cool enough to cultivate temperate vegetation and also allows
tourists an alternative to escape the heat of the big city. Its natural appeal makes it a
perfect destination for a variety of activities such as adventure namely rafting,
trekking or elephant trekking, a peaceful escape with a touch of nature or even sport
such as golf or cricket.
It is also a gateway to the neighboring countries, "aos and #yanmar. The region is
also home to a patchwork of hill tribes$the #users, %ao, #eo, &$kaw, and 'aren who
each possess their own distinctive culture and way of life. ( home to one of the
former capital city of Thai 'ingdom, the region inherits long$preserved traditions, rich
cultures, fascinating architecture, signi)cant historical sites, monuments and temples
such as *ukhothai +istorical ,ark, the -oi *uthep *hrine in .hiang #ai and the ,hra
/uddha .hinarat image in ,hitsanulok. 0ni!ue tribal and regional handicrafts are
available for locals and tourists to keep memories of the visit. Thanks to the
international airport in .hiang #ai which allows travelling to the region convenient.
There is a wide range ofaccommodation from home stay to luxurious hotels and
resorts to choose from.
MAP: PROVINCES OF NORTHERN REGION

Phetchabun ( :
-ue to the huge ,a *ak river basin with mountain ranges running along both the
western and eastern sides of the province, ,hetchabun has always been famous for
it1s fertility of the land, it is an agriculturally highly productive area. The name of the
province actually means 1The land of crops and foods1.
-ue to the natural beauty, mountainous forests and national parks, the province has
high potential for tourism. Nam Nao National ,ark is one of Thailand1s most beautiful
ones. The ancient .ity of ,etchabun has a long history and one of the highlight to
visit is 2at #ahatat, the .ity ,illar *hrine and 2at Trai ,hum.
Si The! Hi"torical Par#
*i Thep is an ancient town where many architectural structures still remain to
indicate its past prosperity during the 11
th
$ 13
th
/uddhist centuries. 4ver one
hundred ancient sites, all built with bricks and laterite, most of them have since
crumbled. There are also remains of several ponds spread out all over the area.
"ist of ,hetchabun hotels