Thai textiles began as a way of life and over time, they have become arts. Handwoven and hand-dyed, these textiles require high level of skills and painstaking attention to detail. They also empower women as they play a key role in handcrafting Thai textiles.

Each kind of textile differs, from pattern designs to weaving and dyeing techniques. To learn more about them, it’s best to go straight to the sources: the weaving villages and groups. This way, you can support the locals and keep these art forms alive. 

9 Weaving Groups and Villages for Thai Textile Lovers

1. Ban Nong Ngueak in Lamphun, Northern Thailand

For over 200 years, the heritage of cotton weaving in Ban Nong Ngueak has been preserved. This is where Yong people (an ethnic group from Myanmar) settled and they have been passing down their weaving techniques for generations.

Apart from high-quality products, which range from modern dresses to pillowcases and curtains, Ban Nong Ngueak has unique looms that can be used by two people at once. These lover looms were used by the husband and the wife in order to produce larger pieces. With lover looms, the husband got to work and stay in the village with his wife. You can still try weaving with lover looms at the village.

2. Pua in Nan, Northern Thailand

In addition to rice, Tai Lue culture thrives in Pua as it’s where they first settled in Nan. One of the most interesting characteristics of Tai Lue culture is that women must learn to weave.

Tai Lue women in Thailand use a special technique called Tapestry Weaving (Lai Nam Lai), using their fingers to interlace the colorful cotton threads and create highly intricate patterns. The results look like water flowing, hence the name Lai Nam Lai, which means literally that. Today you can still admire the art of traditional Tai Lue-style weaving and also buy the handmade products in Pua, especially at Lamduan Textile.

Discover other things to do in Nan, Thailand.

3. Ban Thung Hong in Phrae, Northern Thailand

You might remember Thailand’s classic indigo farmer shirts and pants, but did you know that these traditional clothes or Mo Hom are from Ban Thung Hong? Hom is the name of the plant for Mo Hom indigo dye. From weaving to dyeing, you can learn the whole process of Mo Hom production or even design and make your own costume at this village. The locals at Ban Thung Hong Village are creative and have branched out into other products like Mo Hom bags, umbrellas and etc.

Discover other things to do in Phrae, Thailand.

4. Ban Hat Siew in Sukhothai, Northern Thailand

Known for colorful patterns, Ban Hat Siew textiles are Tai Phuan local wisdom, ethnic people who migrated from Laos. All Tai Phuan women learn to weave before they turn 16, so they create their own patterned sinh (a kind of sarong) for ceremonial use. Ceremonial sinh is called Pha Sinh Teen Chok in Thai.

The difference from other kinds of sinh is that, each Pha Sinh Teen Chok is divided into not three but four parts: the head, the body, the foot and the special part that’s connected to the foot part. This extra part is the most beautiful part of Pha Sinh Teen Chok and the villagers of Ban Hat Siew use porcupine quill in the patterning process.

5. Ban Phon in Kalasin, Northeastern Thailand

Among a variety of silk fabrics in Thailand, Phrae Wa silk of Ban Phon is the Queen of Silk and probably the most famous. A handicraft by Phu Tai women, it’s the same fabrics used for draping Northeastern Thai women’s shoulders. Fusing the khit technique for embossed patterns and the chok technique for colorful patterns, Phrae Wa silk is exceptionally beautiful.

Red was the most common dye for Phrae Wa silk, but now the locals use other colors for more variety. From pink and purple to blue and green, Phrae Wa silk has become more colorful than ever.

6. Wat That Prasit Handicraft Center in Nakhon Phanom, Northeastern Thailand

When the late King Rama IX and the Queen visited the community, they received the local Mudmee ikat silk as a gift and saw its potential. Therefore, Wat That Prasit Handicraft Center was established as a royal initiative to help the locals earn more income outside the agricultural seasons and better their quality of life.

Since then the locals have been developing their Mudmee silk weaving and natural dyeing techniques.  

7. Ban Non Rua in Sakon Nakhon, Northeastern Thailand

Thai textiles have many shades. Even the shades of indigo-dyed fabrics vary. Unlike Mo Hom of Ban Thung Hong in Phrae, indigo of the clothes in Sakon Nakhon comes from the plant kram instead of hom. The village Ban Non Rua is especially famous for their indigo-dyed fabrics, but there are many Sakon Nakhon villages where the kram heritage is alive. Take for example Mae Thita (The movie Troy featured their indigo-dyed clothes) and Ban Tham Tao (The locals plant and produce more kram dye than anywhere in Sakon Nakhon). Each village has its own style and the locals are still developing their techniques even today.

Experience hands-on indigo dyeing with the local gurus. You'll learn the regional art step by step and go home with your very own indigo-dyed piece, a real heart-made and handmade souvenir from Thailand. Read more here.

Sakon Nakhon and its dyeing tradition also has a lot to do with buffaloes, Isaan's signature animal. Our Local Expert also lets you befriend the adorable cattle and discover how they help the locals craft up their tie-dyed products. You will get to make your own tie-dyed t-shirt and taste authentic Isaan food too. Read more here.

Discover other things to do in Sakon Nakhon, Thailand.

8. Ban Tha Sawang in Surin, Northeastern Thailand

Pha Yok Thong is a very special kind of silk. It was chosen as the shirt and shawl material for global leaders who participated in the 2003 APEC in Thailand. This top-notch silk originated at Ban Tha Sawang in Surin.

The beautiful village features not only traditional wooden houses but also a museum that exhibits silk fabrics with ancient Thai patterns. Naga holding Garuda, Thepphanom (temple guardian angels with their hands at the wai position) and so on. 

9. Ban Na Meun Sri in Trang, Southern Thailand

Ban Na Meun Sri women weave their own fabrics for important occasions in their lives: their wedding, their son’s ordination and their funeral. The 200-year-old craftsmanship almost died out due to the lack of material during the World War II and industrialization of weaving.

Fortunately, the elder in the village initiated the preservation of their traditional weaving and their successors have established Ban Na Meun Sri weaving group. Red fabrics with yellow patterns are the most common, but many unique patterns are available. From doll pattern to Constitution Monument pattern. Over 100 beautiful handwoven fabrics are on display at the museum.

Discover other things to do in Trang, 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 Thai Textiles: Where to Explore the Art of Thai Weaving and Dyeing 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!

The post Best Places to View the Sea of Mist in Thailand (Other than Chiang Mai) appeared first on Amazing Thailand.

Nan, Northern Thailand

Nan. The name that once evoked scenes of rural villages hidden among undulating mountains and rugged roads less trodden. With its wild landscape and remote location, the city became part of Thailand only about a hundred years ago and remained under the radar from even Thai locals until the late 20th century. Today this northern city still feels provincial like it did years ago. It’s also characterized by Tai Lue culture and there’s nowhere better to experience this ethnic heritage.

While its raw beauty remains, enough development has reached this northern city, including Nan Nakhon Airport with flights to and from Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Now it has become easier than ever to explore its laid-back old town, tiny but culturally rich villages, vast rice fields and majestic mountains.

All things considered, the northern city is a total package, minus the crowds you’ll face at a more popular city. Check out these top things to do in Nan, Thailand, and enjoy authentic local experiences before the rest of the world catches on.

Top 14 Things to Do in Nan, Thailand

1. “See” the Whisper of Love at Wat Phumin

Wat Phumin in the old town has some of the most unique murals in Thailand. Among the well-preserved paintings that depict Buddhist legends and everyday life of Tai Lue people, the Whisper of Love shows a tattooed man whispering words of love into a woman’s ear—Pu Marn Ya Marn. Local legend has it that if you and your lover wish for eternal love in front of Pu Marn Ya Marn, your love will be timeless just like the mural.

The Whisper of Love aside, the architecture of Wat Phu Min is intriguing. At first glance, the exterior of Wat Phu Min seems to pale in comparison to other Lanna-style temples in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Upon closer look, however, the temple looks as if it was situated on the back of two Nagas. The temple building also combines the main hall of worship, the ordination hall and the pagoda into one. The interior is decorated in Tai Lue style and the pagoda is surrounded by four golden Buddha images. For an in-depth tour of Wat Phumin, Khun Thiradet, our Local Expert in Nan will take you on a tour of the temple, and you'll also get to visit a local fresh market and try local food. 

2. Chill and shop around Wat Phumin

After enjoying the highlights of Wat Phumin, stroll around the temple grounds. Local artists gather at the temple to showcase and sell their works. Postcards, paintings, t-shirts, you name it. Many with creative twists on the Whisper of Love. It just goes to show that Pu Marn Ya Marn is one of the city’s symbols.

Just outside Wat Phumin temple grounds is Khuang Muang or the town plaza. Used for ceremonial purposes in the old days, Khuang Muang has been transformed into a hangout spot. There you can sit down on a mat and nibble on your food (low tables provided) while watching the world go by. Khuang Muang is a nice place to watch the sunset, so come in the evening. Every Friday and weekend, the evening walking street Kad Khuang Muang Nan happens with Northern-style street food and souvenirs. If you want to savor local street food at the most local of atmospheres, click here for more information. 

3. Stroll through the Frangipani Tunnel and slip through time

This has to be one of the most beautiful time travel experiences ever. The Frangipani Tunnel that leads to Nan National Museum will enchant you with twisty branches. The museum itself houses artifacts and antiques that belong to the city’s previous rulers as well as exhibitions of ethnic cultures.

Also on the Nan National Museum compound is Wat Noi, Thailand’s smallest temple. It’s only about 3.5 meter tall!

4. Get a taste of nobleman’s life at Nan Noble House

The century-old Nan Noble House or Hong Chao Fong Kham (the house of Chao Fong Kham) was constructed of teakwood without using screws and nails. In addition to furniture and items used by the noble family members, you can see art and craft demonstrations.

5. Slow down in the old town

Dating back to the 13th century, Nan has absorbed influences from northern kingdoms, including Lanna Kingdom. Their traces still remain in the old town and with its relaxing vibe, there’s no need to rush. Exploring on foot or cycling is the best way to go. When you run out of energy, refuel with tasty bites and brews at one of the traditional Lanna restaurants or lovely cafés around the town.

Apart from quaint houses and parts of ancient city wall, you can take in more old-world charms at these temples.

1) Wat Ming Muang

Since Wat Ming Muang enshrines the city pillar, don’t forget to come pay respect. The exterior of the temple is decorated with white stucco reliefs and carvings. Almost entirely. Those details will blow you away.

2) Wat Phra That Chang Kham

Built in the 15th century for royal ceremonies, Wat Phra That Chang Kham is home to a Sukhothai-style pagoda on a platform surrounded by elephant statues. It’s believed that the pagoda contains Buddha relics.

3) Wat Sri Panton

Gold, gold, gold, Wat Sri Panton and its golden main hall is truly eye-catching.. It’s adorned with sculptures and the double seven-headed Nagas at the staircase are the highlight.

6. Watch the sunset at Wat Phra That Khao Noi

With its hilltop location, Wat Phra That Khao Noi is the obvious choice for sunset watching in the city. The location isn’t the only wonderful thing about Wat Phra That Khao Noi, though. Facing the sun and the city is the temple’s iconic 9-meter tall walking Buddha statue or the Blessing Buddha. You’ll have to drive up there or climb over 300 staircases, but the journey is worth it. The view of the sun dipping below the horizon and casting orange glow around the golden Buddha is really something else.

7. Visit the city's most sacred temple, Wat Phra That Chae Haeng

Built in 1353, Wat Phra That Chae Haeng is one of the oldest temples in the city. With its gleaming pagoda (gilded with Thong Changko, a blend between brass and copper) and Buddha relics, the hilltop temple draws countless Buddhists, especially those who were born in the Year of the Rabbit.

8. Get salty at Bo Kluea

No, it’s not what you think… Bo Kluea means salt wells and it’s exactly as its name suggests. You can find the world’s only mountain salt wells in this little village. Watch the villagers extract rock salt from the wells and boil it. In a traditional and sustainable fashion, as they have been doing almost a millennium ago. The whole village still lives in a time warp and is a joy to walk around.

9. See pink at Doi Phu Kha National Park

The city’s biggest and most beautiful national park, Doi Phu Kha National Park is a beautiful nature retreat with its dramatic limestone mountains, clear streams and waterfalls and sunrise above the mist. Doi Phu Kha National Park is also home to near-extinct plants, including the February blossoms, Chomphu Phu Kha. It's the only place in the world where you can see these pink flower trees.

10. Feed your creativity at Nan Riverside Arts Space

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.

11. Live the Tai Lue life in Pua

While the old town is already charmingly rural, let’s take it to the next level in Pua District. Pua is the most dearly beloved countryside in the city thanks to its endless view of paddy fields and mountains. In addition to rice, Tai Lue culture thrives there as it’s where they first settled in the city. Sip coffee at Ban Tai Lue Café, a complex of thatched-roof huts in the middle of rice fields. Learn about the art of Tai Lue weaving and buy traditional yet hip fabric and textile products at Lamduan Textile. Visit Wat Phuket, a local temple that overlooks the traditional village and rice fields, and tickle the strange Sensitive Tree or Ton Dik Diam.

12. Dive deeper into Tai Lue culture at Wat Nong Bua

Wat Nong Bua in Tha Wang Pha District is another place where Tai Lue culture is still alive. More than the spiritual center, the temple is where you can enjoy the murals that tell the local stories of Tai Lue people.

Next to Wat Nong Bua is a traditional Tai Lue house that serves as the Tai Lue Museum. In addition to exploring each room and learn how Tai Lue people live, you can watch the demonstration of Nam Lai textile weaving by Tai Lue people.

13. Explore the wilderness at Sao Din Na Noi

The forces of nature are great artists. When wind and rain met sandstones, Sao Din Na Noi or Hom Chom was created. This wilderness of eroded sandstone pillars and cliffs is also dotted with forests, but for the most part, you’ll feel as if you were in the Wild West. Khun Niramon, our Local Expert in Nan will show you an authentic local experience which includes Sao Din Na Noi, and Doi Samer Dao, the next place on our list. Hurry before the rest of the world catches on!

14. Sleep under the stars at Doi Samer Dao

Gaze at the stars before you fall asleep and wake up to the sea of mist at Doi Samer Dao in Sri Nan National Park. 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.

That’s it for things to do in Nan, Thailand, but that’s not all you can do on your journey. Pair your visit to Nan with a trip to its charming neighbor, Phrae. Find out things to do in Phrae, 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 Nan, Thailand: Sleep Under the Stars, Live the Tribal Tai Lue Life and Marvel at Salt Wells appeared first on Amazing Thailand.