A hidden gem of a province, Nan was once an independent
kingdom and is now a refuge for travelers who wish to explore
the natural beauty of northern Thailand and its rich cultural
heritage in peace and tranquility. A quiet and tranquil province,
Nan is nestled in a verdant valley in northern Thailand along
the border with Laos. Because of its relative proximity to
Luang Prabang, the historical capital of the Laotian Lan Xang kingdom,
the earliest settlers in the area were Lan Xang’s Laotians,
ethnic Tai who are distantly related to the Tai people who settled
in central Thailand. These early settlers established themselves
around present-day Pua district, which is rich in rock salt deposits,
about 700 years ago. The earliest Nan rulers allied themselves
with neighboring principalities to establish the kingdom of Lan Na.
The center of power in Nan eventually moved south to the fertile
Nan River basin, where the capital of Nan exists to this day.
Nan's history, development, and architecture
were greatly influenced by various neighboring kingdoms,
in particular Sukhothai, which played important political and
religious roles in shaping the development of Nan. Over the
centuries however, Nan alternated between being an independent
principality under the control of Lan Na, Sukhothai, Burma
and Siam in that order. In 1558, the town was conquered and
depopulated by the Burmese. By the late 18th century Nan forged
an alliance with the new Bangkok centered Rattakosin Kingdom
and existed as a semi-autonomous kingdom with a line of monarchs
that ruled from 1786 until 1931. Today, Nan is still the home of numerous
Thai Lue and other hill tribes who retain many of their fascinating
customs and traditions.
The rural province of Nan is an attractive region of northern
Thailand where there are high populations of hill tribe communities,
including Hmong, N'tin, and Khamu. Much of Nan is devoted to
agriculture, particularly rice and fruit cultivation.
Nan features six national parks, including the stunning Doi Phukha
National Park, which contains mountains nearly 2,000 m high.
The rich natural beauty of Nan makes it an ideal destination for
as the remote province sees far fewer visitors than neighboring
Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai.
The provincial capital of Nan has a relaxed charm, an interesting
history, some impressive temples, and a good museum. There are also
a number of quality restaurants and bars along the town’s riverfront
to plan your adventures into the countryside or relax after sightseeing in the town.
☺ Tips ☺
If you plan to visit in October, the city comes alive for the annual Nanboat races; try to book your room early!
