About Nan
Nan lies about 688 km north of Bangkok in a remote river valley against the Laos border. The surroundings are densely forested and rich in rice fields, and the town has a Lanna character of its own. In Wat Phumin you find famous murals, including the well-known whispering couple. The Nan National Museum is housed in the former palace of the last two rulers of Nan. Also visit the King of Nan's teak house, a building from 1866, and the remains of the old city wall from 1885. Outside town lie Pha Chu, a cliff in Si Nan National Park, and mountain roads with views of clouds in the cool season. Nan suits anyone combining quiet and culture without crowds.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: cool and dry, with chilly mornings in the hills. From February to April smoke and haze from agricultural burning can limit visibility; June to October is the rainy season, green and quiet. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Bangkok by flight (small airport), by bus (about 10 hours) or from Chiang Mai by bus (about 5 hours). Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Nan
- Wat Phumin A temple with a cross-shaped hall and well-known murals.
- Nan National Museum A museum in the old palace of Nan’s last rulers.
- Teak houses The King of Nan’s house and Chao Fongkham House are fine examples.
- Pha Chu A cliff in Si Nan National Park, roughly 80 km south of town.
