The largest mountain city in Northern Thailand is Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai has several attractions, including the old city ruins in the centre and many historic temples.
Backpackers on this route adore Pai, a peaceful community in northern Thailand famed for its Southeast Asian hippy culture!
Buses pick you up at Pai bus station (Wiang Tai, Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand). You can book online through The Green Bus firm or in person at Chiang Mai's Arcade bus station
The northernmost province of Thailand is Chiang Rai. Popular for its colourful temples and sedate pace. Often a stopover before or after Laos. Numerous hiking day tours through the mountains and jungle are available
Backpackers travel to Chiang Khong to leave Thailand on this Southeast Asia route. You'll take a shuttle bus to the Laos immigration centre at the border to enter legally.
Huay Xai is a tiny Mekong River settlement. Most guests pass by before continuing their river excursion.
We found the boat ride from Thailand's border town to Laos very interesting. The wooden slow boat is the most common riverboat for visitors. One overnight stay in Pak Beng takes about two days
The entire city is a world historic site with amazing Buddhist temples and two unique architectural styles. Heavily frequented Luang Prabang is known as the Jewel of the Laos Crown .