15 Best Places to Visit in Northern Thailand

1. The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

The Blue Temple stands out with its striking sapphire color. Unlike gold-covered temples, it embraces purity and wisdom. It blends traditional Buddhist values, Thai architecture, and modern design, created by Putha Kabkaew, a student of the White Temple’s artist.

History of The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

The Blue Temple is called “Temple of the Dancing Tiger” in Thai. A long time ago, another temple was here, and tigers roamed around. The temple we see now is new. People from the village decided to build it again in 1996.

They started in 2005 and finished in 2016, but it’s still not done. It’s not as famous as the White Temple or the Black House, so it’s not very crowded. But that’s changing fast, so visit soon for a nice tour.

Inside of the The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

Once you’ve felt the calmness of the wise Buddha statue, leaving the room can be surprising. The area around the door is painted to look like Hell, and the door itself looks like a demon’s wide-open mouth.

When you step outside, it’s like leaving the mouth of Hell and coming back to the regular world. Here, you’ll find sellers waiting to offer you refreshing blue ice cream, especially on those hot days when you need something cool and tasty. It’s a unique experience going from the peaceful temple to this unexpected sight and treat.

Details of The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

Full NameThe Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
Date of Estabilish2016 Completely rebuild
LocationMaekok road
2.5 kilometers North of Chiang Rai town

2. The White Temple Thailand

While most big temples in Thailand are really old, they began building the White Temple in 1997. Ajarn Chalermchai Kositpipat, a famous Thai artist, wanted a modern temple for Buddhism. He got a 3-acre space with an old temple and made it a big 9-acre place.

He’ll have 9 buildings when it’s done, but that might take over 100 years. Ajarn has helpers and a student, and he wants two groups of students to finish it in maybe 90 years after he’s gone. The White Temple will show how much he loves his religion and country.

At Wat Rong Khun, you’ll see modern things. There are skulls on parking cones and creatures from a movie coming out of the ground. You’ll be taking lots of photos.

Don’t forget the temple’s message and signs warning about smoking and drinking. Inside, there’s a white part that’s pure and mirrors reflecting Buddha’s wisdom.

The main part has a cool white bridge. You’ll go over hands trying to trick you and meet strong guards, like going to heaven. There are colorful murals inside with secrets.

Inside The White Temple

Inside the central Temple, there’s a pretty mural showing Buddha battling a demon named Mara. This shows Buddha’s fight with his own troubles before he became wise through meditation. Nearby, there’s a statue of Buddha at different stages, from a man to reaching peace.

My favorite mural is near the entrance. It’s super modern with famous characters like Superman and Neo. The artist wants us to know that heroes like them aren’t real, so we should work for peace.

There’s a picture with George W Bush and Osama Bin Laden’s faint images, asking for peace. A picture of the Twin Towers reminds us that war isn’t the answer. The artist really believes in peace and shows it in his art.

Details of The White Temple

Full NameThe White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
Date of EstabilishEstablish of 1997
LocationPa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, 14 km southwest of Chiang Rai Town

3. Pai Canyon

Pai Canyon (Kong Lan in Thai) is a top spot near Pai, a famous town in Northern Thailand. While not huge, the views from its trails are great, especially at sunset. It’s an amazing place with narrow ridges, steep drops, and beautiful views of greenery around. You can hike and explore for a few hours, but it’s high and doesn’t have railings, which might make some nervous.

Pai Canyon Sunset

Pai Canyon is the best place to see the sun go down behind the mountains. It’s really busy at sunset time. Come early because Busy from December to March. Offseason from March to May is less crowded, and the sky has a colorful sunset due to heat and smoke.

Pai Canyon Hiking

Pai Canyon has two hiking levels. A stairway leads to the first level, good for nice sunset views. More adventurous? The second level has ledges without railings. Walk if you are comfortable. Each ledge has one path. Walk on the ridge if you are confident with it, but always be careful. Don’t forget to wear comfy shoes.

4. Waterfall In Phuket

In Thailand, going to the beach on a hot day sounds great until it’s crowded. Shacks are full, and chairs are taken. Instead, try the east coast for stunning waterfalls, less crowded. Enjoy the natural jets.

Phuket has hills and waterfalls with ocean views and jungles. Hike to hidden falls for the time in nature.

5 Best waterfall in phuket

Kathu Waterfall


Kathu Waterfall has many beautiful steps and pools, not just one big fall. The best time is the rainy season (June to Nov.) for strong water flow. Watch out for slippery paths.

Climb up for a great view, it’s tough but worth it. Pools are good for swimming or paddling. Foreigners pay THB 100, locals THB 20. Snacks at the entrance to keep you energized.

Bang Pae Waterfall


Bang Pae waterfall is Thailand’s biggest, 10 meters tall. You can visit any time, it doesn’t dry up. It’s in Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, so pay THB 200. Bring snacks, relax in the shade, and watch the water. It’s worth it, the waterfall is amazing.

Ao Yon Waterfall

In Cape Panwa, a small sign shows a hidden waterfall. The path might confuse you, but follow the one to Ao Yon Waterfall. You’ll see huts, villagers, and buffaloes. Not many know about this place, so it’s natural. Cross a stream to reach it. Pools are good for swimming, trees make pretty reflections. Perfect for photos!

Lampi Waterfall

Near Khao Lak, Lampi Waterfall is surrounded by businesses but untouched. It’s easy to reach, just a 3-minute walk from parking. No jungle trek needed. Picnic area with food stalls. Buy swimming shorts here. Waterfall is cool with many levels. Swim under the bridge in a cold pool. Entry: THB 100 for foreigners, THB 20 for locals. Weekdays are less crowded.

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