Nestled in northern Thailand, Nan Province serves as the border with Laos. Sparsely populated and rarely visited by tourists, it has managed to preserve its verdant landscapes and natural charm that immediately inspire tranquility. The province remains largely covered in forests and is home to several mountains perfect for rejuvenation or trekking. It is primarily inhabited by ethnic groups such as the Thai Yuan, Thai Lu, Lao Puan, Lua, Kamu, Hmong, Mian, and Mabri peoples.

The city of Nan is increasingly developing local tourism, even though few foreign visitors know of it. Of course, the city represents an interesting cultural and historical stop. If you have already visited Thailand's must-see attractions, a visit to Nan will enrich you further and undoubtedly bring you peace.

History

At the end of the 13th century, the first kingdom around the city of Pua was founded, and Praya Pukha Fung, the brother of Vientiane's founder, established his court there. Nan's original name was Nantaburi or Woranakom, and it was home to 64 sovereigns of the Phukha dynasty. Despite its ties to Vientiane, the kingdom experienced strong political and religious influences from the Sukhothai kingdom. In the 14th century, Nan relocated to its present location.

In 1443, King Kaen Thao of Nan sought to capture the city of Phayao and killed its king. However, the forces of King Tilokaraj of Chiang Mai attacked Nan in 1449 and captured it.

In the 15th century, the Sukhothai kingdom declined and Nan came under the feudal system of the Lanna kingdom.

Around 1700, Lanna fell under Burmese domination. Following several liberation attempts, Nan was directly administered.

The Burmese were expelled in 1788 and Nan received new rulers from Siam.

Following the Paknam crisis in 1893, the majority of eastern Nan Province was conceded to French Indochina.

In 1931, Nan was fully integrated into the Siamese kingdom.

Nan Today

Nan is renowned for its boat races. This is a tradition dating back more than six centuries and attracts many visitors each year. Generally, they take place in summer, during the Buddhist retreat whose dates vary according to the lunar calendar.

Discovering Nan

Visiting temples is the ideal opportunity to learn about the city's history and monuments. Among the city's temples that have existed for many years, some reflect Lanna influence while others belong to Thai Lue heritage.

Wat Ming Muang

This temple's architecture testifies to Lanna influence on Nan. Inside, its walls are decorated with paintings that reflect daily local life. Don't miss it!

Wat Phu Min

This is the most spectacular temple in the province thanks to its beautiful murals and breathtaking interior.

Wat Chae Hang

Located outside the city, this temple is the most venerated by locals. Be sure to discover its peaceful surroundings, its golden stupa, and the beautiful view it offers over the Nan Valley.

Nan National Museum

This attraction is a must-visit to understand the history and secrets of Nan, as well as the region's culture and its inhabitants' traditions.

Rich in natural landscapes, Nan Province alone is home to 7 national parks. Notably, Sri Nan National Park, Doi Phu Kha National Park, Khun Sathan National Park, Khun Nan National Park, Mae Charim National Park, Sagoen Cave National Park, and Nonthaburi National Park. These places are ideal for escaping pollution and enjoying nature.

You can venture onto the Kat Kuang Muang pedestrian street, located near Wat Phumin, to discover northern cuisine, shop, and find souvenirs to bring home to loved ones.

Climate

Nan has a tropical savanna climate. It is hot year-round with an average annual temperature of 25°C, but summers are humid and winters are dry. Over the year, average precipitation is 2,219.7 mm.

The best time to visit Nan is from November to April, during the winter season. At this time, rain is unlikely to spoil your holiday and the sun will be present without burning your skin. The weather will be pleasant, knowing that on average, the lowest temperature is 20.8°C. In April, the hottest month, temperatures can reach up to 29.6°C on average.

How to Get to Nan?

Since there is no railway station in Nan, it is not possible to travel by train from Bangkok. However, you can come by bus or plane. The two airlines serving the city are Nok Air and Air Asia.

If you prefer to take the bus to reach Nan, expect around ten hours from the capital. You can also take the bus from Chiang Mai for 6 hours, from Chiang Rai for 5 hours, or from Phrae for 2 hours. It should be noted that public transport is limited. Generally, local tourists come by car.

How to Get Around the City?

To get around Nan city, it is common to travel on foot or by bicycle. For your safety, the city has cycle lanes and a cycling route to facilitate exploration. Tuk-tuks rarely circulate in the city.