Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

With the Thai cave rescue making headlines everywhere from June to July 2018, the low-key Northern city of Chiang Rai has gone down in history. While most people will probably associate Chiang Rai with the flooded Tham Luang Cave, the 13 trapped members of the Wild Boar Academy football team, and last but not least, thousands of admirable Thai and international rescuers, Chiang Rai has a lot more pleasant surprises for you. Yes, we’re talking about its natural beauty and history that will surely captivate travelers from all over the world.

While most tourists flock to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai serves up its own versions of nature and culture that you shouldn’t miss. Many of you might already know the White Temple or Wat Rong Khun, but did you know that other fairytale-like temples and architectural works await? When it comes to nature, Chiang Rai will take your breath away with its unique mountainous landscape, vast tea plantations, and colorful flower fields. You’ll definitely find something different in Chiang Rai while avoiding tourist crowds.   

Chiang Rai is also incredibly easy to access. You can catch one of the many direct flights from various cities in Thailand (including Bangkok and Phuket) as well as China and Hong Kong. If you’re already in Chiang Mai, take a three-hour bus ride straight to Chiang Rai. Check out these top things to do in Chiang Rai, Thailand, and enjoy authentic local experiences before the rest of the world catches on.

Top 11 Things to Do in Chiang Rai, Thailand

1. Journey into fantasy

When in Chiang Rai, you might have to pinch yourself to see if you’re dreaming… or ask yourself if you’re in heaven… Thai-style heaven, that is. Chiang Rai is the hometown of some of Thailand’s most famous artists and many temples and other Buddhist architectural works in the city are some of their masterpieces. Interestingly, these fantasylike works of art actually reflect some truths about life.  

1) Black House (Baan Dam Museum)   

Born in Chiang Rai, late national artist Thawan Duchanee left many marks in Thai art scene. One of his most impressive (and eeriest) works is Black House, which was also his home and studio. The complex consists of 40 Northern Thai temple-like buildings, each one adorned with animal remains that the modern Buddhist artist collected. Black House isn’t just about its dark color scheme but also the dark yet true concepts. Skins, skulls, horns, bones and other animal parts represent the inevitable end that everyone must face and can be interpreted in many more ways.

2) White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

Like Yin and Yang, White Temple is the opposite of Black House, but the temple has its own amazing history. Wat Rong Khun was once an old, deteriorated temple until national artist and Chiang Rai native Chalermchai Kositpipat renovated it in an entirely new style. Apart from its heavenlike all-white exterior and intricate carvings, the artist mixes in pop culture in the White Temple design. Also, don’t forget to visit Chalermchai Kositpipat’s art gallery in the temple complex. The gallery houses a large collection of the national artist’s paintings.

3) Chiang Rai Clock Tower

Completed only in 2008 by Chalermchai Kositpipat, Chiang Rai Clock Tower is a proof that new can also be gold. While strolling around the town, there’s no way you can miss the clock tower’s golden structure and details. At night, Chiang Rai Clock Tower will glitter gold and there’s a light and sound show every day at 7, 8, and 9 pm.

4) Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

Mystical, right? Designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat’s student, Salanok, the Blue Temple is the latest addition to Chiang Rai’s color-coded architecture. Painted sapphire blue inside and out, Wat Rong Suea Ten isn’t as big as the Black House and the White Temple, but your journey into fantasy won’t be complete without visting it.

As Chiang Rai is quite big, getting a private car is the easiest way to explore the city. Temple-hop and top your day with the best Khao Soi in town with our Local Expert and learn about the history behind each iconic temple. 

2. Take an art walk in Chiang Rai Old City

While Chiang Rai’s most beautiful temples are located outside Chiang Rai old town, we still highly recommend you explore the old town area for more Buddhist arts. Apart from the golden Chiang Rai Clock Tower, there are a lot of small but unique temples that never seem to get crowded. If you’re tired, there are always chic cafés and local eateries for you.    

1) Wat Ming Muang

Almost as old as Chiang Rai itself (about 800 years old), Wat Ming Muang beautifully fuses Tai Yai and Lanna styles together.

2) Wat Phra Kaew

Does the name ring a bell? Chiang Rai’s Wat Phra Kaew is where the Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaew Morakot) was discovered before it was eventually moved to the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok. Today Chiang Rai’s Wat Phra Kaew enshrines its own Emerald Buddha that’s actually carved from jade.  

3) Wat Phra Singh

One of Chiang Rai’s oldest temples, the temple boasts a Lanna-style viharn (assembly hall) with wooden doors crafted by National Artist Thawan Duchanee. Like Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Phra Singh was once home to one of Thailand’s most revered Buddha images, Phra Singh. While the Buddha image is now enshrined at Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai, you can still find well-crafted replicas at Chiang Rai’s Wat Phra Singh.

3. Shop and dance the night away, the Thai style

In Chiang Rai, you can shop without worrying about midday heat! Chiang Rai Night in the old city area opens daily, so you can always buy local handicrafts for souvenirs. The night bazaar is also a cultural experience with local food and traditional shows.

If you prefer walking street, Chiang Rai Walking Street opens every Saturday from 4pm to midnight. Of course, traditional arts and crafts and Northern-style street food are to be expected, but where else can you join traditional Thai dance with locals? Foreigners are more than welcome to try Thai dancing with Chiang Rai locals on Chiang Rai Walking Street.

4. Gaze upon Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos at once at the Golden Triangle

While the Golden Triangle has a dark history of drug trafficking, the area is now safe and has become one of the most popular destinations in Chiang Rai. The Golden Triangle is where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos (the Mekong River and the Ruak River) meet, so don’t miss the viewpoint. There is also the golden Big Buddha enshrined on a boat. If you plan a longer stay, you can even take a cruise to Laos or Xishuangbanna in China.

Let your feet touch the soil of three lands in one day – explore the golden triangle, Laos Market and Myanmar border with our friendly Local Expert.  

5. Bike through an ancient civilization in Chiang Saen

Dating back to the seventh century, Chiang Saen was one of Northern Thailand’s most important ancient kingdoms. Rent a bike and cycle along the old city wall to the ruins of temples around Chiang Saen. The area is still a hidden gem and also green, so you can escape not only the crowds but also the heat. Drop by Chiang Saen National Museum for more history and antiquities.  

6. Reach for the sky at Phu Chi Fa

Two hours away from Chiang Rai city center is Phu Chi Fa, one of the most popular spot to view the sea of mist and sunrise among Thai travelers that remains somewhat under the radar among foreign visitors. Pointing to the sky as its name says, the silhouette of Phu Chi Fa peak against the sunrise is a stunningly unique sight.

Once you catch the sunrise at over 1,600 meters above sea level, don’t leave right after. Phu Chi Fa straddles the border of Thailand and Laos, so you can see the Mekong River, forests and mountains in the other side after the mist is gone. While you can enjoy the sea of mist at Phu Chi Fa all year round, visit in December or January for wild Himalayan cherry blossoms.

7. Enjoy a unique mountain adventure at Doi Pha Tang

Few people have been there, even Thai locals. This makes Doi Pha Tang a great destination for explorers. Apart from panoramic views of mist and clouds from Hill 101, Hill 102 and Hill 103 (the peak that rises 1,653 meters into the sky), Doi Pha Tang is unique with rock cliffs that look as if they were torn apart or Chong Pha Kad. Look through the cliff gate and when the waves of mist dissipate, you can see the Mekong River and Laotian valleys down below.

Like Phu Chi Fa, Doi Pha Tang is painted in pink from December to January with wild Himalayan cherry blossoms.

8. Admire the blooms and balloons at Singha Park

Singha Park is a property of Boon Rawd Brewery. Yes, the manufacturer of the famed Singha Beer. But the park is all about agro-tourism and you’ll find fruit orchards, vegetable farms, flower fields, tea plantations and family attractions. It also hosts many events ranging from music festivals to cycling events as well as Singha Park International Balloon Fiesta (every February).       

Don’t visit Singha Park without tasting their farmfresh produce and good food and drinks. Oolong tea no. 12 is one of their best products. If you prefer it cool and sweet, try bubble oolong tea. Visit White Temple, Golden Triangle and Singha Park and feast at an authentic Northern restaurant that once served legendary Mark Wiens.

9. Discover the royal and the local on Doi Tung

At over 1,500 meters above sea level, Doi Tung is a great place to enjoy a breath of fresh air. Stroll among lush greenery and colorful flower beds of Mae Fah Luang Garden, complete with the new Doi Tung Tree Top Walk.

However, Doi Tung has more than nature. As the center of the Doi Tung Development Project by Mae Fah Luang Foundation Under Royal Patronage, you can learn how the poppy fields and opium trade were transformed into sustainable agricultural projects. Support the local hill tribes by purchasing their fresh vegetables, fruits, and other products including silk clothing. As the Doi Tung Development Project was initiated by Princess Mother, you can also visit her Lanna- and Swiss-style Royal Doi Tung Villa. Visit both White Temple and the Royal Doi Tung Villa, then have a delicious Northern Thai lunch set at a locals' go-to restaurant.

10. Take delicious sips and delightful shots at tea plantations

Chiang Rai has some of Thailand’s most beautiful tea plantations and highest-quality tea. Each one has its own charms and offers different kinds of tea, so take your time:

1) Choui Fong Tea Plantation

When you look for something to quench your thirst at 7-Eleven or supermarkets in Thailand, you’ll find a vast array of tea brands such as Oishi, Ichitan, Lipton, Unif and Malee. The tea leaves behind all these famous brands come from Choui Fong Tea Plantation. 

Going strong for over 40 years, Choui Fong Tea Plantation is the biggest and arguably the most beautiful tea plantation in Chiang Rai. There are two branches, one in Mae Fah Luang and the other in Mae Chan, the latter being over 1 square meters large. The tea plants are grown on descending hills and if you visit the Mae Chan branch, don’t miss its on-site restaurant. Sit on the terrace overlooking the tea lots, slurp green tea smoothie and savor other tea-based desserts like green tea tiramisu. Visit White temple, Blue temple, Black House and cool it down with a visit to Choui Fong tea plantation here.

2) 101 Tea Plantation

Doi Mae Salong is home to some tea plantations and all of them offer top-notch tea. However, the tea that hit the world’s stage and also won the first place came from 101 Tea Plantation. Having placed first at the World Tea Festival in 2004 for their oolong tea no. 12 and no. 17, 101 Tea Plantation is rightfully famous. Fortunately, the mountain remains blissfully calm. Sipping hot tea in such a dreamy location… Heavenly. Their Four Season tea and herbal tea are also well-known.

101 Tea Plantation has an interesting history. The family of the founder is Taiwanese and they have been harvesting tea for generations. The company also involves in the royal initiative to help the hill tribes. Previously growing and trading opiums, the hill tribes in the area are now working in the tea plantation and have a better quality of life.

3) Wawee Tea Plantation

Over 30 years ago, Wawee Tea Plantation was the first Thai tea plantation to grow oolong tea. Located on picturesque Doi Wawee, the plantation produces Taiwanese tea like Ching Ching no. 12 and no. 13 and also Assam tea and local tea. Apart from tracing the origin of Thai oolong tea, you can see the local life of Chin Haw people (Chinese who migrated from Yunnan to Thailand via Myanmar and Laos). Their village is on Doi Wawee and tea planting is their way of life.

11. Visit Wat Huay Pla Kung at night

Another temple but it’s no ordinary. Everything about Wat Huay Pla Kung is grand. You can spot the nine-storey pagoda and the gigantic white Guan Yin statue from afar and inside the temple hall stands another large wooden Guan Yin image.

While you can go to Wat Huay Pla Kung at day, you can enjoy the illuminations at night.

That’s it for things to do in Chiang Rai, Thailand, but that’s not all you can do on your journey. Combine your visit to Chiang Rai with trips to other charming cities in Northern Thailand.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Top Things to Do in Chiang Rai, Thailand: White, Black and Blue Temples Plus Hilltop Sunrise and Tea Plantations appeared first on Amazing Thailand.

Even if tea isn’t your cup of tea, tea plantations are still wonderful places. Lush green tea plantations with mountains looming in the distance, locals calmly picking tea leaves, crisp cool air… It’s a picture of pure happiness. If you visit in the morning, you get morning mist as an added bonus.  

Thanks to its mountainous landscape and cooler climate, Northern Thailand is the ideal place for tea plants. Other than Chiang Mai, the neighboring cities Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son have their own tea plantations, including the winning tea at World Tea Festival. Below are some of the top tea plantations in Thailand.     

Top 5 Tea Plantations in Thailand (Northern Thailand)

1. Wawee Tea Plantation in Chiang Rai

Over 30 years ago, Wawee Tea Plantation was the first Thai tea plantation to grow oolong tea. Located on picturesque Doi Wawee, the plantation produces Taiwanese tea like Ching Ching no. 12 and no. 13 and also Assam tea and local tea. Apart from tracing the origin of Thai oolong tea, you can see the local life of Chin Haw people (Chinese who migrated from Yunnan to Thailand via Myanmar and Laos). Their village is on Doi Wawee and tea planting is their way of life.  

2. Choui Fong Tea Plantation in Chiang Rai

When you look for something to quench your thirst at 7-Eleven or supermarkets in Thailand, you’ll find a vast array of tea brands such as Oishi, Ichitan, Lipton, Unif and Malee. The tea leaves behind all these famous brands come from Choui Fong Tea Plantation. But if you taste Choui Fong tea at the source, it’s going to be a different story. An even more delicious story.

Going strong for over 40 years, Choui Fong Tea Plantation is the biggest and arguably the most beautiful tea plantation in Chiang Rai. There are two branches, one in Mae Fah Luang and the other in Mae Chan, the latter being over 1 square meters large. The tea plants are grown on descending hills and if you visit the Mae Chan branch, don’t miss its on-site restaurant. Sit on the terrace overlooking the tea lots, slurp green tea smoothie and savor other tea-based desserts like green tea tiramisu. Sounds like a sweet day already.

Sip your way through your Chiang Rai trip at the Choui Fong tea plantation and visit the famous White Temple with our Local Expert here.

Interested but staying in Chiang Mai? No worries. Your Local Expert will happily pick you up from your hotel.

3. Singha Park (Boon Rawd Farm) in Chiang Rai

Singha Park is a property of Boon Rawd Brewery. Yes, the manufacturer of the famed Singha Beer. But the park is all about agro-tourism and you’ll find fruit orchards, vegetable farms, flower fields, tea plantations and family attractions. It also hosts many events ranging from music festivals to cycling events as well as Singha Park International Balloon Fiesta (every February).       

Don’t visit Singha Park without tasting their farmfresh produce and good food and drinks. Their oolong tea no. 12 is one of their best products. If you prefer it cool and sweet, try bubble oolong tea.

Discover the breezy and verdant world of Singha Park and the must-visit Blue Temple here. The bonus is that your Local Expert will also happily pick you up from your hotel in Chiang Mai area.

Or you can opt for a combination of a Singha Park tea plantation and the equally stunning White Temple here. What's more is that you will get the chance to savor authentic Northern Thai food while you're in Chiang Rai. Sounds like a chance you just can't miss! 

4. 101 Tea Plantation in Chiang Rai

Doi Mae Salong is home to some tea plantations and all of them offer top-notch tea. However, the tea that hit the world’s stage and also won the first place came from 101 Tea Plantation. Having placed first at the World Tea Festival in 2004 for their oolong tea no. 12 and no. 17, 101 Tea Plantation is rightfully famous. Fortunately, the mountain remains blissfully calm. Sipping hot tea in such a dreamy location… Heavenly. Their Four Season tea and herbal tea are also well-known.

101 Tea Plantation has an interesting history. The family of the founder is Taiwanese and they have been harvesting tea for generations. The company also involves in the royal initiative to help the hill tribes. Previously growing and trading opiums, the hill tribes in the area are now working in the tea plantation and have a better quality of life.

Khun Nattamon, our Local Expert in Chiang Rai is always more than happy to show you an exclusive tea plantations trail which include 101 Tea Plantation and the previously mentioned Choui Fong Tea Plantation. Tea lovers, this is your chance!  

5. Ban Rak Thai in Mae Hong Son

This is not a Chinese movie set. Situated near the stunning reservoir Pang Oung, Ban Rak Thai is a Thai-Chinese village founded by Kuo Min Tang soldiers or Nationalists who migrated from Yunnan. In addition to Chinese-style charms, you’ll be awed by the beauty of tea plantations of the locals.

Some villagers open tea shops. Drinking Chinese tea is a must-do and there’s one more thing you mustn’t miss. Try Yunnan-style stewed pork leg, which is eaten with buns. It’s Ban Rak Thai’s specialty.

In addition to the lush and aromatic tea plantations, Chiang Rai also charms travelers with the White, Black and Blue temples, tantalizing Northern Thai cuisine and friendly locals. Discover more things to do in Chiang Rai here.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Top Tea Plantations in Thailand appeared first on Amazing Thailand.

In reality, Thai art is full of diversity. Aside from the Buddhist art we’re familiar with, Thailand has a budding contemporary art scene and themed art spaces have been sprouting in recent years, especially in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

However, there are lots of other art spaces scattered around Thailand. They offer local insights into Thai art scene. Plus many are close to Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Come get inspired at these hidden art destinations in Thailand.

9 Hidden Art Museums and Art Galleries in Thailand

1. Woodland Muangmai in Nakhon Pathom, Central Thailand

One of Bangkok’s neighbors, Nakhon Pathom is as artistic as the City of Angels, but in its own ways. At Woodland Muangmai, you can admire various styles of Southeast Asian arts in one place. Each piece of Indonesian, Burmese, Cambodian and Thai arts there is exquisitely carved. There are over 1,000 nature-, religion- and myth-inspired carvings. You can spend hours appreciating the woodcarvers’ skills and dedication.

After wrapping up your journey into the world of wood carving, visit the solemn wooden church. Woodland Muangmai is also a resort, but if you don’t want to stay overnight, you’re welcome to enjoy the restaurant and souvenir shop on the property.       

2. Owl Art Museum in Nakhon Pathom, Central Thailand

Owl Art Museum is the first of its kind in Thailand. Don’t think of it as just a small museum. With over 1,000 owl-themed art pieces on exhibit, we assure you it’s a wise idea to add Owl Art Museum to your Nakhon Pathom itinerary. There’s also a souvenir shop if you want to take these cute owls home or you can join an art class to make your own owl.

3. Thai Human Imagery Museum in Nakhon Pathom, Northern Thailand

Long before Madame Tussauds came to Bangkok, Thailand already has a similar museum in Nakhon Pathom. Thai Human Imagery Museum houses a large collection of impressively life-like fiberglass sculptures. The models are some of the most important figures in Thai history, such as the highly revered monks and the Chakri Dynasty kings. What’s more, the museum also showcases traditional Thai culture through fiberglass figures as well as fictional characters from classic Thai literature.  

4. Tao Hong Tai d : Kunst in Ratchaburi, Central Thailand

Just a couple of hours from Bangkok is Tao Hong Tai : d Kunst. An artistic cooperation between Tao Hong Tai (Ratchaburi-native ceramics company) and local artists, it’s Ratchaburi’s first-ever contemporary art gallery. The gallery is housed inside a century-old wooden Thai house and features not only contemporary art exhibitions but also an art library and a hip café.

Tao Hong Tai also has another art project, which is in its own factory. The area around Tao Hong Tai Ceramics Factory is turned into a green space dotted with colorful installation art pieces. All made from Tao Hong Tai ceramics, of course. You can tour the factory as well and watch the workers handcraft each piece with your own eyes.

Discover other things to do in Ratchaburi, Thailand.

5. Wat Khanon Nang Yai Museum in Ratchaburi, Central Thailand

Nang Yai or large shadow play fuses many branches of arts and UNESCO-honored Wat Khanon Nang Yai is a must-see when you’re in Ratchaburi. Artisans meticulously carve buffalo hide into life-size puppets and the story unfolds through traditional Thai music and entertaining chants.

Wat Khanon has over 300 well-preserved Nang Yai puppets and the Nang Yai Museum is right on the temple grounds. Every Saturday from 10am-11am, the puppets come to life in Nang Yai shadow play performed by Wat Khanon School students.

Discover other things to do in Ratchaburi, Thailand

6. Black House (Baan Dam Museum) in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

Born in Chiang Rai, late national artist Thawan Duchanee left many marks in Thai art scene. One of his most impressive (and eerie) works is Black House, which was also his home and studio. The complex consists of 40 Northern Thai temple-like buildings, each one adorned with animal remains that the modern Buddhist artist collected. Black House isn’t just about its dark color scheme but also the dark yet true concepts. Skins, skulls, horns, bones and other animal parts represent the inevitable end that everyone must face and can be interpreted in many more ways.     

7. White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

Like Yin and Yang, White Temple is the opposite of Black House, but the temple has its own amazing history. Wat Rong Khun was once an old, deteriorated temple until national artist and Chiang Rai native Chalermchai Kositpipat renovated it in an entirely new style. Apart from its heavenlike all-white exterior and intricate carvings, the artist mixes in pop culture in the White Temple design.

The temple itself is already in and of itself a Buddhist art exhibition, but don’t forget to visit Chalermchai Kositpipat’s art gallery in the temple complex. The gallery houses a large collection of the national artist’s paintings.

8. Nan Riverside Arts Space in Nan, Northern Thailand

Formerly called Nan Riverside Art Gallery or Rim Nan Art Gallery, this is one of Thailand’s best local art collections. Founded by a nationally famous artist from Nan, Winai Prabripoo, the gallery building houses paintings and mixed media by local artists while the relaxing garden on the banks of the Nan River displays sculptures. Nan Riverside Arts Space proves that Nan is a place to be for not only traditional art lovers but also contemporary art enthusiasts.

Discover other things to do in Nan, Thailand.

9. Suchart Subsin’s Nang Talung Museum in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Southern Thailand

Nang Talung or small shadow puppets are carved from cow skins and this ancient cultural performance originated in Southern Thailand. Nang Talung puppets can be as small as 15 centimeters in length and require meticulous attention to details. Late national artist Suchart Subsin was one of Thailand’s greatest Nang Talung craftsmen and puppeteers. He had brought Nang Talung to international level and even though he passed on, his family and apprentices are working hard to keep the heritage alive.

At Suchart Subsin’s Nang Talung Museum, you can admire the Nang Talung puppets and also watch them in action. Nang Talung puppets are available as souvenirs.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Hidden Art Museums and Art Galleries in Thailand appeared first on Amazing Thailand.

Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak located in Chiang Mai is hands down the most popular destination for international mist hunters and sunrise chasers. However, there are actually many other cities to enjoy the sea of mist in Thailand. These top spots also offer other unique experiences.

There’s no more enchanting way to start your morning than this, so you can’t miss it. Here are the best places to view the sea of mist in Thailand.

16 Best Places to View the Sea of Mist in Thailand (Other than Chiang Mai)

1. Khao Krajom in Ratchaburi, Central Thailand

It’s hard to believe there’s a sea of mist that’s only about 3 hours away from Bangkok, but this is the reality. Marking the end of Thailand, Khao Krajom is the tallest mountain in Suan Phueng, a locals’ favorite nature retreat in Ratchaburi. It’s a proof that viewing the sea of mist above verdant forests is possible during your weekend getaway.

Discover other things to do in Ratchaburi, Thailand.

2. Thung Salaeng Luang National Park in Phetchabun, Northern Thailand

Savannah landscape right in Thailand! Dotted with pine trees and flowers that bloom from October to December, Thung Salaeng Luang National Park is in and of itself a stunning savannah, complete with wildlife. Simply drive to Sala Dusita viewpoint for the scene of mist shrouding the forest below. This is the best option for the elderly and people with mobility impairment.

And when the sun is completely above the horizon, stroll in the pine forest and marvel at the golden sunlight shining through.

3. Phu Tub Berk in Phetchabun, Northern Thailand

At Phu Tub Berk, the sea of mist is served with cabbages. The largest field of cabbages in Thailand, might we add. Traveling in the rainy season is normally not very ideal, but it’s another story in Phu Tub Berk. It’s the best time to enjoy the greenery there.

4. Khao Kho in Phetchabun, Northern Thailand

You can’t visit Phu Tub Berk without including Khao Kho in your itinerary. Of course, you get to view one of the most beautiful seas of mist and clouds in Thailand, but there are a lot of more highlights.

Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, one of the most unique temples in Thailand, is there with Buddha images that will make you wonder if you’re hallucinating, as well as colorful mosaic that will show you how Antoni Gaudí can mix with Buddhist arts. In the colder months, Khao Kho is also abloom with colorful flowers.

5. Nam Nao National Park in Phetchabun, Northern Thailand

We’re still in Phetchabun because it’s such a wonderful hidden gem. If you haven’t had enough views of picturesque seas of mist, go to Nam Nao National Park. It’s a huge national park of unspoiled forests, waterfalls, caves and wildlife. If you love bat- and birdwatching, you’ve come to the right place.

6. Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park in Phitsanulok, Northern Thailand

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park is packed with unique landscapes, but Lan Hin Pum has to be the most unique among them all. Situated on a mountain, Lan Hin Pum is a rock plain dotted with lumpy stones formed by erosion. Add in the view of morning mist that you can see from Lan Hin Pum and it’s going to be even more unforgettable.

In addition to mountains, forests and waterfalls, Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park is steeped in history as it was the headquarters of the Communist Party of Thailand (CPT) in the 20th century. You can find the buildings from the era as well as the museum in the national park area.

7. Doi Hua Mhod in Tak, Northern Thailand

Tak, the westernmost city in Thailand, has always been known for its dense forests, towering mountains and grand waterfalls. Its remote location discourages many travelers from visiting, but it isn’t a too difficult destination and this is your chance to witness one of the rawest national parks in Thailand. Take on Doi Hua Mhod in Umphang and you’ll be rewarded with the seemingly endless sea of mist and the unique landscape of limestone mountains dotted with only shrubs and flowers.

Need more reasons to venture out to Doi Hua Mhod? You can pair it with a trip to Thi Lo Su Waterfall, the largest and most beautiful waterfall in Thailand.

8. Phu Chi Fa in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

Two hours away from Chiang Rai city center is Phu Chi Fa, one of the most popular spot to view the sea of mist and sunrise among Thai travelers that remains under the radar among foreign visitors. Pointing to the sky as its name says, the silhouette of Phu Chi Fa peak against the sunrise is a stunningly unique sight.

Once you catch the sunrise at over 1,600 meters above sea level, don’t leave right after. Phu Chi Fa straddles the border of Thailand and Laos, so you can see the Mekong River, forests and mountains in the other side after the mist is gone. While you can enjoy the sea of mist at Phu Chi Fa all year round, visit in December or January for wild Himalayan cherry blossoms.

9. Doi Pha Tang in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

Few people have been there, even Thai locals. This makes Doi Pha Tang a great destination for explorers. Apart from panoramic views of mist and clouds from Hill 101, Hill 102 and Hill 103 (the peak that rises 1,653 meters into the sky), Doi Pha Tang is unique with rock cliffs that look as if they were torn apart or Chong Pha Kad. Look through the cliff gate and when the waves of mist dissipate, you can see the Mekong River and Laotian valleys down below.

Like Phu Chi Fa, Doi Pha Tang is painted in pink from December to January with wild Himalayan cherry blossoms.

10. Yun Lai Viewpoint in Mae Hong Son, Northern Thailand

You might not know the name Mae Hong Son, but it’s actually where Pai is. Anyway, there are good reasons why Mae Hong Son is nicknamed the City of Three Mists. Among its numerous viewpoints for the sea of mist, Yun Lai Viewpoint in Pai is one of the most beloved. Treat yourself to hot Chinese tea while watching the mist roll by above the local village and fields.

11. Pang Oung in Mae Hong Son, Northern Thailand

Mist floating so close to the crystal clear lake surrounded by verdant pine trees. Black and white swans quietly swimming by. The golden light glistening off the lake surface at the break of dawn. Tranquility in the air. Everything about Pang Oung is dreamy.

12. Ban Jabo Village in Mae Hong Son, Northern Thailand

Ban Jabo, a Black Lahu hill tribe village, is a journey of nature and culture (authentic!) rolled into one. Stay overnight in one of the local homes and you won’t regret it.

But the biggest highlight of all is probably having noodles in the sky. The simple noodle shop is situated on a mountain and you can sit down on the terrace, dangling your feet. For a very cheap price, you get to enjoy a very tasty bowl of noodles and million dollar views of mist and mountains.

13. Doi Samer Dao in Nan, Northern Thailand

Camp close to the stars and then wake up to the sea of mist. At Doi Samer Dao (translating to where you can reach the stars) in Sri Nan National Park, the last thing you see before falling asleep and the first thing you see in the morning are just so beautiful.

After the sunrise, walk along the nature trail to Pha Hua Singh or Lion’s Head Cliff and enjoy the panoramic view of forests and river below.

Discover other things to do in Nan, Thailand.

14. Phu Lang Ka in Phayao, Northern Thailand

Peeking above the white fluff are giant limestone mountains. Just like islands in the sea of mist and clouds. Combining with the trees that sprinkle the vast meadow below, Phu Lang Ka looks as if it came straight out of a painting.

15. Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei, Northeastern Thailand

This is one of the most classic mountain adventures in Thailand. Thai lovers dream of conquering Phu Kradueng together, testing their patience and love as they make their way from the base to the summit. The hike takes about 4-5 hours one way. It’s also a popular place to pop the question.

Apart from the sunrise over the sea of mist and clouds at Pha Nok Aen (Swallow Cliff), Phu Kradueng has lots of other wonderful viewpoints, flora and fauna. Visit in December or January to view fiery red maple leaves, which contrast beautifully with the waterfalls and lush surrounding. Yes, we’re still in Thailand.

15. Phu Thok in Loei, Northeastern Thailand

This small mountain is only a few minutes away from Chiang Khan, a quaint village near the Mekong River where time seems to slow down. Make sure you go up there to enjoy the morning mist and the panoramic view of Chiang Khan and the Mekong River.

16. Pha Chanadai in Ubon Ratchathani, Northeastern Thailand

Be the first to see the sunrise in Thailand! People in this area welcome the new dawn before anyone else in the country. The cliff Pha Chanadai is a dramatic location that overlooks the vast sea of mist and after the mist clears up, you can see the forests and the Mekong River in the Laos.

Since Pha Chanadai is part of Pha Taem National Park, there are lots of other things to do. History buffs will love the cave paintings that date back to 3,000 years ago while nature lovers get to enjoy waterfalls, rare wildflowers and giant, weird rocks called Sao Chaliang all in one place.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

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