Northern Thailand Through My Lens: A Photo Guide

Sunrises over cloud inversions, sipping morning coffee with a parrot on your shoulder, and strolls through glittery temples. These are memories that define Central and Northern Thailand for me as a Thai person.

Through a collection of my best travel photos, you’ll see bucket list-worthy places and activities from the most cultural regions of Thailand, my home country.

Why photos? Well, what better way to browse for inspiration than looking through photos of Mango and Sticky Rice and sunsets over rice fields?

Whether you’re planning your first trip or dreaming of your return, this photo guide covers some of the most beautiful places in Thailand. From food to culture and grand sights, let’s explore Thailand through the lens of someone who calls it home!

Curious about the South, too? Have the Beaches and Islands version open in another tab for later!

Cultural Regions of Thailand: A Quick Overview

It would be completely impossible to showcase all of Thailand in 20 photos. So I’m limiting this photo essay to only Central, Northeastern, and Northern Thailand, a.k.a. the more cultural regions of the country.

First off, don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying that Southern Thailand has no culture or that it’s any less ancient than the North at all. But I think the lack of serene beaches and clear ocean water to swim in puts travelers in a different mindset when visiting the north.

You have nothing else to focus on but culture.

Central Thailand

Central Thailand, home to Bangkok and 3 other historic capital cities, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, and Thonburi, has always been the heart of the country. Here, you will find the Thai-est of Thainess in food, architecture, and aesthetics.

Northeastern Thailand (Isaan)

Northeastern Thailand, known locally as “Isaan,” was once a part of Laos’ Lan Xang Kingdom and is inhabited by Lao-speaking Thai people. It still shares much in common with Laos today.

Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand, in my opinion, is the most culturally diverse of the three I’ve listed. Parts of this region belonged to the Lan Xang Kingdom, and parts of it belonged to the Lanna Kingdom.

You will notice a stark difference in architectural style and cuisine from the rest of the country here.

Without further ado, here are my top 20 photos that showcase the best of Thailand from the center up, in no particular order.

20 Photos That Will Inspire Your Northern Thailand Itinerary

Starting off in the north, below are two photos that showcase the duality of Chiang Mai really well.

Wiang Kum Kam: The Lost City in Chiang Mai

First image below: Wat Chedi Liam, the poster image for the lost city of Wiang Kum Kam.

Chai Lai Orchid: Eco-Lodge with Unexpected Guests

Second image above: A parrot having his morning moment amidst the lush green of the Chai Lai Orchid Resort.

The best thing about Chai Lai Orchid is how they hire staff from the underrepresented mountain tribes around Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Part of their income also goes directly to support the fight against human trafficking with Daughters Rising.

Hat Chom Dao: Sunset Magic in Ubon Ratchathani

Above is one of the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever seen, at Hat Chom Dao in Ubon Ratchathani.

Thai Thai Sukhothai Resort: My Favorite Memory

The hotel lobby at Thai Thai Sukhothai Resort, decorated in the beautiful style of old-time Thai homes.

I had a blast staying here for a whole week. The staff are super attentive, and the bed was so comfortable that I wish I could just roll around all day.

Hokkaido Flower Park, Khao Yai

Some serene mood at the Hokkaido Flower Park, Khao Yai.

There’s no shade, so do not visit during our summer, from March to May! Actually, June through August don’t work, either, since that’s the monsoon season. I’d say keep it between November and January.

Chiang Rai’s Heaven and Hell: White Temple and Black House

Left: The Black House Museum, metaphorically known as the Hell of Thai Architecture. Right: The White Temple, or the Heaven of Thai Architecture. Both places are in Chiang Rai.

Traditional Thai Coffee: Sweet, But In a Great Way!

Traditional Thai hot coffee is served with a layer of sweetened condensed milk at the bottom and a small cup of hot tea. Stir it well before drinking!

Choui Fong Tea Plantation, Chiang Rai

Workers picking tea leaves at the Choui Fong Tea Plantation in Chiang Rai.

Thai Cuisine by Region (Yum!)

Three very popular Thai dishes from 3 regions. Lao Papaya Salad from the Northeast, Hainan Chicken Rice from the Central, and Kanomjeen Namngiaw from the North.

Wat Si Chum: the Giant Buddha of Sukhothai

The giant Buddha at Wat Si Chum of Sukhothai.

Banna Ton Chan in Si Satchanalai: Sunrise Magic

Sukhothai at sunrise and sunset. On the left is a platform overlooking cloud inversions, and on the right is a local village rice field. Both are in the Si Satchanalai District.

Phahee Village, Chiang Rai: Coffee and Culture

A peaceful street in the Phahee Village of Chiang Rai, one of the main coffee producers in Thailand.

Make Me Mango: Bangkok’s Fusion Desserts Bar

Make Me Mango serves the best fusion of Mango and Sticky Rice, in my opinion!

Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Ayutthaya: Ancient Royal Temple

Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the majestic royal temple of Ayutthaya.

The Gems of Phra Nakhon: Grand Palace and Wat Arun

Bangkok‘s most important sights by day and by night. Left: The Grand Palace, Right: Wat Arun

My Favorite Spots This Part of Thailand

It never hurts to hear what a local likes to do in their own country, right? Even as a local, I find Thailand extremely fun, full of cultural heritage and amazing food. Here are some of my favorite things to do.

I’ll forever be mesmerized by Wat Phra Kaew, the kingdom’s royal chapel and possibly the most ornate Buddhist temple I’ve ever seen in my life. Right next door is Wat Pho, known for the reclining Buddha, but also the birthplace of Thai Massage, and where you can get one!

My mom and I also really enjoyed this Tuk-Tuk food tour. Even as locals, we were starstruck.

Another cultural hub is Chiang Mai, the city where you can temple hop AND cafe hop. Five-hour drive away from it is Nan Province, Thai people’s favorite slow-life destination.

For more ideas, check my Thailand Immersive Travel page.

Helpful Travel Tips for Thailand

All visitors need to fill out a Digital Arrival Card no longer than 3 days before their trip to Thailand. And if applicable, a visa.

• Make sure you protect your trip with a travel insurance.
• Get this eSIM for local data without giving up your number.
• Must-have Apps: Grab, Papago AI Translator, Google Maps

Tourists have been doing fine communicating in English in Thailand, but if you want to be extra courteous, then learn some local phrases before arriving. Also, be aware of some dos and don’ts wouldn’t hurt.

Don’t forget to always have cash on hand. The smaller the notes, the better!

Grab My Thailand E-Checklist

To make sure you don’t leave anything important out of your preparations, I’ve made a digital checklist to help you get ready. I leave 2 pages blank for you to customize your own checklist, too!

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