In this Nan Guide you will find the essential information to discover what to see and what to do in this Thai city. We give you the details about the most relevant monuments and the experiences that you cannot miss. If you want to visit Nan, you should know that it is not a very touristy area , which means that you will have a particularly quiet stay away from the crowds. It is recommended for those who return to Thailand for the second time or wish to discover local tourism sites, since it is an area very visited by Thais from all over the country. We recommend renting a vehicle to explore the region.
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What to see in Nan
Wat Phrathat Chae Haeng
Wat Phrathat Chae Haeng is undoubtedly one of the most significant temples in Nan . It was built in the 14th century and is located in the eastern part of the city. The building itself is a mixture of various architectural styles , with a garden around it that is pleasant to stroll through. There you will find a sculpture of a large four-meter snake. In the gardens there are two other smaller buildings, which are ordination rooms. There are also lion sculptures that welcome the Tai Lu-style Viharn Luang building. In this building there is the largest image of Buddha in the entire complex . In the complex one of the most significant parts is a 55 meter golden chedi. Inside this chedi are images of Buddha.
Practical Data:
- Location : Muang Nan district, 200 meters from South Route 1168 from Nan.
- Hours : from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Admission: free
Wat Phra That Khao Noi
This 13th century temple is situated on top of a hill. To reach the top you have to climb about 300 steps. The complex, which is in the Tai Lu architectural style, stands out for its white stupa. It is a little tourist temple, from which you can see panoramic views of the area. It is also common to see monks, which will allow you to get an idea of their daily life.
Practical Data:
- Location : Ban Kaem, Mu 5, Woranakhon Subdistrict, Nan
- Hours : from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Admission: free
Wat Phumin
Wat Phumin temple is one of the most famous temples in Nan . Its ubosot (chapel) was built during the 16th century and is the most significant part of the temple This temple is of Tai Lu architecture and in it you can see several murals that show the day to day life in Nan. The paintings are mostly inside, and although some are quite deteriorated, there are also some that are very well preserved. The temple also has a library with Buddhist scriptures.
Practical data:
- Location : downtown Nan, next to the National Museum
- Hours : from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Price : 50 baht (€1.3)
Nan National Museum
The Nan National Museum was opened in 1974. In the past, the building was used as a royal pavilion. Its architectural style combines the European style with the traditional Nan style. On the two floors of the museum you can see ancient objects from the city, such as jewelry, images of Buddha or a silver tray belonging to the last royal governor of Nan , one of the most precious objects in the museum.
Practical Data:
- Location : 42 Suriyapong Roadd, Pha Sing, Amphoe Mueang Nan
- Hours : from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Wednesday to Sunday
- Price : 100 baht (€2.60)
Things to do in Nan
Descend the rapids of the Wa River practicing rafting
If you are an adventure lover, the Wa River is a perfect place for rafting. It is also a good area for trekking. In the northern part of the river, rafting is only possible from September to December, when the water level is a bit high. During the tour you will pass through forest areas and some villages . A recommended rafting company in the area is Nan Touring which offers various rafting tours.
Visit Doi Phu Kha National Park
Doi Phu Kha National Park has been a protected park since 1988 . It is the largest nature park in northern Thailand. In it you will find some caves and rock formations , ideal to disconnect and get lost in the middle of nature. If you would like to appreciate some beautiful views you can do it from its viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the place.
Go shopping at a night market
In the street where the Wat Phumin temple is located there is a night market that is held on Fridays and on weekends in the evening in Nan. If you want to taste the local gastronomy, in this market you will find many food stalls where you can have something to eat at a good price. In addition, it is also a good place to get a souvenir from the city or buy textiles. Thinking of traveling to Thailand? Take a look at all the itineraries we have to travel to Thailand for which you can pass through the city of Nan: