Roadtrip to the North during the Rainy Season: 10 Days, 9 Nights, 6 People, 3 Provinces, 4 Mountains, 15 Cafes (Part 1)

"Let's head north. Let's drive."

Is there anything else I can help you with?

A voice from one of the older colleagues invited us to go up to the middle of the office.

A Rainy Season Adventure in Northern Thailand: A Road Trip with Friends

The prospect of a road trip through northern Thailand during the rainy season, especially by car, might seem daunting. Images of relentless downpours and treacherous roads may come to mind. However, this journey promises a unique experience filled with adventure and camaraderie.

While rain is a constant companion during this season, it also paints the landscape in vibrant hues of green, transforming waterfalls into roaring cascades and enriching the air with the scent of petrichor. The potential for challenging driving conditions exists, but with careful planning and responsible driving, the risks can be mitigated.

The itinerary for this ten-day adventure encompasses a diverse range of activities and destinations. Starting in Bangkok, the journey takes a pitstop in Lampang before venturing further north to Chiang Rai. The return leg includes a stop in Chiang Mai before concluding back in Bangkok. This flexible itinerary allows for spontaneous detours and exploration, embracing the spirit of a true road trip.

The camaraderie of six friends, all embracing the freedom of unemployment, adds another layer of enjoyment to this adventure. Sharing the driving responsibilities, laughter, and unexpected encounters along the way creates memories that will last a lifetime.

This journey is not just about reaching destinations; it's about embracing the unexpected, forging deeper bonds with friends, and experiencing the raw beauty of northern Thailand during the rainy season. It's a chance to escape the ordinary and immerse oneself in the rhythm of the road, the pitter-patter of rain, and the warmth of shared experiences.

Is there anything else I can help you with?

Let's take a look at our rough plan and see where we'll be going over the next 10 days.

Day 1: Bangkok – Lampang

Day 2: Lampang - Chiang Rai

Day 3: Exploring Chiang Rai City Center

Day 4: Phu Chi Fa

Day 5: Doi Pha Tang

Day 6: Doi Ang Khang

Day 7: Mae Klang Luang, Chiang Mai

Day 8: Exploring Chiang Mai City Center

Day 9: Noon in Chiang Mai City Center

Day 10: Return to Bangkok

Our initial plan was to visit Pai and Mae Hong Son, with an overnight stay at Pang Ung. However, due to flooding, we had to change our plans and opted for Phu Chi Fa and Doi Pha Tang instead (although we were very disappointed, the scenery was equally stunning!).

Notes:

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Due to the large number of images, we will divide them into 3 parts.

Part 1: Lampang - Chiang Rai City

Chapter 2: Ascending the Peaks: Phu Chi Fa, Doi Pha Tang, Ang Khang, and Mae Klang Luang

Part 3: In Chiang Mai City

English:

Let's embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of northern Thailand during the rainy season. The lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls come alive, revealing a beauty that surpasses our wildest imaginations. The monsoon transforms the region into a magical wonderland, offering a unique charm that is unlike any other time of year.

You can follow us on Facebook.
#TheForgetfulMan

Let's start the journey... by opening Google Maps instead of Pokemon Go.

We met at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 8 am. We still haven't changed our minds about getting on the plane, haha. We still drove there. We met up around 8 am, but it was almost 9 am before everyone arrived and we were ready to leave. And because we were driving, we were able to stop at almost every gas station. At first, we thought we would arrive in Lampang around 5-6 pm, but in reality, it was almost 8 pm. I was so hungry then.

Our first night's stopover was in Lampang. Let's take a look.

LADA HOUSE: Our accommodation in Lampang. The entrance is so cute! We're sure to have sweet dreams tonight.

Another corner of our first night's accommodation features a swing, making us feel right at home.

The atmosphere inside is friendly and welcoming, like hanging out at a friend's house. Everyone is very kind and helpful.

Another photo of the atmosphere. The table and chairs feel like being in elementary school when you sit down. They have cute patterned cushions. I love it.

This is a picture of Grandma Ladda, or should I say Auntie? I'm not sure, haha. As usual, we took our time this morning and set off in a relaxed manner. After waking up, we packed our things and prepared to head to our next destination: Chiang Rai. While we were waiting, we had the opportunity to chat with Grandma Ladda, the owner of the accommodation. She is so lovely! She told us stories about her guests, such as the time a foreigner asked her about "the foot of the mountain" and she replied "food mountain," which confused the foreigner. However, another guest helped to explain, and it was a very friendly atmosphere. Some foreigners who stayed there for the first time loved it so much that they came back 4-5 times, bringing their families and even their company. Grandma also recommended places to visit in Lampang, suggesting where to go and what to eat. She even tried to write down directions for everything. Listening to her stories made me feel good. She is so proud of her province and has given me a lot of good ideas. Oh, and I almost forgot, Grandma is 79 years old and will soon be 80, but she looks very strong!

A Culinary Adventure in Lampang: Exploring Khao Soi O-Ma

The morning began with a delightful breakfast at Khao Soi O-Ma, a local favorite in Lampang. Despite the early hour of 11 am, the restaurant was already bustling with activity. The menu boasted a variety of enticing dishes, including the signature Khao Soi, a northern Thai noodle soup.

Unable to resist the temptation, we ordered a generous spread, including the delectable Moo Satay Rai Khuan (smokeless skewered pork), Khao Niao Moo Rai Man (steamed rice with lean pork), and of course, the Khao Soi itself. Each dish was a testament to the restaurant's culinary prowess, showcasing fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.

The Khao Soi, in particular, was a revelation. The rich, aromatic broth, the perfectly cooked noodles, and the tender chicken combined to create a symphony of textures and tastes. The accompanying condiments, including pickled vegetables and crispy fried shallots, added further depth and complexity to the dish.

Our breakfast at Khao Soi O-Ma was a true highlight of our trip to Lampang. The delicious food, friendly service, and vibrant atmosphere made for an unforgettable experience. If you find yourself in this charming northern Thai city, be sure to add Khao Soi O-Ma to your culinary itinerary. You won't be disappointed.

The restaurant's ambiance may not be luxurious, but the khao soi is excellent.

A huge order! Feeling hungry! Ordered everything on the menu: beef khao soi, chicken khao soi, pork khao soi. Then turned left into the alley. Wow! ...

The most delicious Khao Soi with beef. Once you try it, you'll forget everything else (which is easy for me, since I forget things all the time).

Is this Khao Soi with pork? (I can't remember, haha)

With full bellies and energy, we were ready to hit the road! Just kidding, we were actually quite sleepy. Haha. The driver continued driving while we comfortably slept for most of the journey. After about 3 hours, we arrived in Chiang Rai. We will be spending the night here.

Upon arrival, we first settled into our accommodation.

Happynest Inspiring Hostel: A Home Away from Home

Nestled in the heart of Chiang Rai, Happynest Inspiring Hostel offers a unique and comfortable experience that transcends the typical hostel atmosphere. Our recent stay felt more like a cozy boutique hotel than a shared dormitory.

We opted for a shared room, accommodating six guests, and enjoyed access to the hotel's shared bathroom facilities. Impressively, the bathrooms were impeccably clean and convenient, exceeding our expectations for a hostel environment.

Happynest's commitment to comfort extends beyond its clean facilities. The hostel boasts a playful atmosphere, complete with games and activities to keep guests entertained. Additionally, the delicious and affordable food options further enhance the overall experience.

The hostel's central location in Chiang Rai provides easy access to the city's attractions and vibrant culture. The abundance of charming nooks and crannies throughout the hostel adds to its unique charm, making it an ideal spot for capturing memorable photos.

In conclusion, Happynest Inspiring Hostel offers a delightful blend of comfort, affordability, and entertainment, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a home away from home in Chiang Rai.

The entrance is open, the air is fresh, and it feels great.

Translation:

This corner is a popular spot here. In the morning, we will come here to have breakfast.

The check-in area has a lovely atmosphere.

The atmosphere inside the typewriter is truly amazing. It can actually type!

Translation:

After taking many photos and packing up our belongings, we have plenty of toys to play with. Let's go find a place to relax and unwind.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

After packing up, they immediately set out to find food.

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English:

The Wanderer: This spacious riverside restaurant boasts lush greenery, a testament to the owner's dedication to landscaping. The modern, exposed-concrete building features strategically placed openings that allow trees to grow within, preserving the original vegetation. The outdoor seating area immerses guests in nature, while the glasshouse provides an alternative ambiance. Each corner of the restaurant is meticulously decorated, creating a visually appealing atmosphere.

The trees at the entrance are like stepping into another world.

Sitting outside, listening to the sounds of nature, the sound of flowing water, or the rustling of leaves. It's great to be surrounded by nature like this.

Translation:

The interior of the shop is cool.

The ambiance of the restaurant

The interior of the shop with trees that extend outside the shop.

Glasshouse section

The atmosphere inside the glasshouse.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Another angle of the interior of the glasshouse.

We stood there for a long time looking at the desserts, and the shop assistant recommended their signature coconut cake. It was light and fluffy, made with egg whites.

Another one I ordered was caramel pudding. It had a slightly burnt, bitter caramel flavor that I enjoyed. As you can see, the cup is actually quite large.

This is lasagna, it's delicious.

There is a cat named Caramel. It doesn't want to play.

This is Tepo, a friendly dog who loves to play.

Translation:

Covertly photographing my fellow sufferers for 10 days as we were forced to remain together, from above.

Shop 2

Translation:

English:

An Ordinary Life: After having dessert, we came to this restaurant for dinner (we really eat all day long). This restaurant is arguably one of the most famous in Chiang Rai. It is located by the Kok River and is a beautiful white house with an English-style garden surrounded by trees. There are trees all the way from the entrance. Inside the restaurant is a very high hall with seating arrangements that make you feel like you are sitting in a living room. There are books and knick-knacks all over the restaurant. The entire restaurant is surrounded by windows, making the interior feel airy and comfortable. If you don't want to sit inside, there are also seats outside. You can sit in the garden or by the river. We sat at this restaurant for a very long time. I told you it was relaxing, haha. We don't have to rush tomorrow because we will be exploring Chiang Rai. Yay!

Almost forgot, there is a green Mini parked in front of the shop.

The entrance to the shop is charming.

External atmosphere

A puppy greeted me.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Is there anything else I can help you with?

The ambiance of the restaurant

The interior of the shop is filled with a vast collection of items.

The cafe is filled with an abundance of teacups and coffee mugs, covering every shelf and surface.

Translation:

English:

Another picture of the plates and bowls inside the restaurant.

The interior of the restaurant has a very private seating area in this section. If you come with a large group of friends, it would be a lot of fun.

The outdoor atmosphere behind the shop is very relaxing, with a view of a lush green garden.

Relaxing atmosphere with a chilled beer.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

The outdoor environment is truly filled with trees.

The garden inside the shop

Ordered a coffee to start things off.

The food here, we ordered French fries, spaghetti, and northern Thai sausage. For us, the French fries were delicious, but the price here is quite steep. It's worth it for the atmosphere. After we were full, we went back to the hostel to sleep before exploring Chiang Rai city tomorrow.

Let's skip dinner and move on to breakfast.

I'd be glad to translate the sentence from Thai to English, ensuring a simple and concise tone:

Almost forgot, there's also fried eggs available for those who came together. Actually, there's also rice porridge, fried eggs, and sandwiches to choose from.

Stopping to take photos along the way is a great advantage of road trips. We can stop wherever we want, and on this trip, there were many places we loved along the way. The scenery was just as beautiful as our destination.

A Day at Choui Fong Tea Plantation: A Scorching Adventure

Our first stop of the day was Choui Fong Tea Plantation, where we embarked on a quest to hunt for caterpillars and harvest tea leaves. The vastness of the plantation was staggering, but we opted for a scenic walk instead of driving to different points. The scorching heat, however, proved to be our biggest adversary, threatening to melt us under the relentless sun. After a while, we succumbed to exhaustion and sought refuge in the highest café on the plantation. We ordered tea to quench our thirst, but the taste was underwhelming. Interestingly, there was another café on the premises, which we unfortunately didn't have time to visit.

Translation:

The cafe we didn't get to sit at, let's go back and try again.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

I walked and walked until I found him picking tea.

I walked until I melted, stopped to take a quick picture. I tried to have a themed outfit, but I couldn't do it. Haha.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Let's walk up and find a place to rest.

The interior features shops selling various items, including snacks.

You can sit outside if you like. It's quite pleasant during the winter.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Is there anything else I can help you with?

Inside some

Ordered tea to cool down a bit.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Remote cafe

Capture a standard angle shot. This angle looks great.

Young tea leaves

Translation:

After taking a break from photographing young tea leaves, we started to feel hungry again. Our food trip was in full swing, and we were constantly eating. The next restaurant we visited was just as famous as the last.

Next shop

Melt in your mouth: This white-themed restaurant boasts an English-style garden and sits by the Kok River. It offers various seating areas, including outdoor, indoor, and rooftop options. If you visit during cooler weather, we recommend sitting outside. Due to our hunger and excitement, we ordered a lot of food. The sai oua (northern Thai sausage) was excellent, and the hang lay curry, made with the owner's mother's recipe, was delicious. After our meal, we indulged in desserts. The panna cotta was exceptional, and we highly recommend it. The coffee was also delicious. Personally, I consider this the best restaurant in Chiang Rai because of its authentic northern Thai cuisine and delectable desserts. The prices are reasonable and offer good value. We highly recommend trying it out.

The entrance is very lush and green. It's good to come during the rainy season, it's easy on the eyes.

A dog welcomes you at the entrance.

The interior of the shop is white and cute, perfect for girls to take photos. The large windows let in natural light, making for beautiful photos.

The interior of the shop has a lot of windows.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

The ambiance of the restaurant

The interior of the shop is decorated in a white and blue color scheme, creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere.

The atmosphere inside the shop. Oh, there's sugar too. Hehe.

The outdoor seating area offers a view of the garden, trees, and the river.

The exterior of the shop

Outside the shop, I saw an elderly couple playing Pokemon Go. Why doesn't mine show up? Haha.

The food we ordered was incredibly abundant, making us ravenously hungry. There was even more food, but we were too hungry to take pictures.

This is the best! The Sai Oua is the highlight of this trip. If you look closely, the color inside is different from other places. It's the owner's mother's recipe. You have to try it!

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Yummy desserts! 😋 I'm posting pictures while I'm still hungry. After we're full, let's go for a walk to digest. 🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️

After we have eaten our fill, let's go and enjoy some art.

Black House, Thawan Duchanee: A Hidden Gem

The Black House, created by renowned Thai artist Thawan Duchanee, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and immersive experience. Despite initially having no knowledge of the place, I was pleasantly surprised by its vastness and the multitude of sections it encompasses.

The entrance features a collection of Thawan Duchanee's remains, followed by a series of houses showcasing diverse architectural styles. The complex also houses a dedicated space for the artist's work, including ongoing woodcarving projects. This makes the Black House an ideal destination for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in Thawan Duchanee's legacy.

The best part? Entry is free, making it an accessible and enriching experience for all.

The magnificence of this place

We wandered around the area, which had many buildings.

"Excuse me, may I take a picture? You're making me blush."

A more modern approach (our knowledge is as small as an ant's tail, smaller than a toad's tail).

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Many unique styles.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

The atmosphere is filled with beautiful light and shadow effects.

Translation:

Lush and scorching hot at the same time.

Black house interior.

This is where the remains of the teacher are kept.

The interior of this building is the rear section.

Translation:

An inside-out perspective.

This is the first building we encounter upon entering, and it is a popular spot for tourists to take photos.

From the Black House, we came here directly.

Doi Din Dang: A haven for pottery enthusiasts

Doi Din Dang is a haven for those who appreciate the art of pottery and handmade creations. The atmosphere is hip and inviting, with lush greenery providing a tranquil ambiance. During our visit, we were the only group present, allowing for a truly immersive experience.

The space is divided into various zones, each catering to different interests. The retail section showcases a diverse collection of plates, bowls, and pots, sure to tempt any pottery enthusiast. A charming café provides refreshments, while the workshop area offers a glimpse into the fascinating process of pottery making and firing.

We arrived in the late afternoon, so we might not be able to capture the best lighting.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Inside each house, there are cups and plates arranged everywhere.

The exterior has a very natural look.

Translation:

Let's explore the exterior a little further.

I had to secretly take another picture of the technician.

Even the stairs are beautiful.

The exterior is filled with earthenware jars, pots, basins, and cooking pots.

Wait a minute, where did this basin come from? Haha, there isn't one.

This area is a cafe, but I think it's been quiet lately because there aren't many customers.

Another photo of the girls' gang.

Let's take a break and find a place to sit down.

Ryukan Cafe: A Slice of Japan in Thailand

Ryukan Cafe seamlessly blends the charm of a Japanese cafe with the functionality of a hostel. Stepping inside, you'll be transported to a world reminiscent of Japan, complete with a delightful array of Japanese cartoon characters.

From the iconic Doraemon and Anpanman to the beloved Totoro, these characters add a touch of whimsy and nostalgia to the atmosphere. But the true highlight might be Lucky, the cafe's resident dog. This gentle giant welcomes playful interactions, adding to the overall warmth and charm of the establishment.

Store entrance

It also has a hostel section.

The hostel is worth a try.

Doraemon is here! My magical door, let's go! We can go anywhere we want. Hehe.

Going to Japan again!

The ambiance outside the shop

Note: I have translated the sentence "บรรยากาศภายนอกร้าน" to "The ambiance outside the shop" while keeping the tone simple and short. I have also avoided using personal pronouns, colloquialisms, and maintained a formal academic style.

A Glimpse Inside

This phrase translates to "A glimpse inside" in English. It suggests that the speaker is about to describe the interior of a place or situation.

Lucky the dog, with a friendly face, says, "I want to play with you, haha!"

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Order a green tea that evokes a sense of Japaneseness.

Do you see Totoro? Let's take a picture together.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Having taken enough photos of my younger sibling, we can now enter the bamboo forest together.

As the sun began to set, we captured the stunning sky on our way to dinner. It's amazing how quickly the day flies by.

Luu Lam: A riverside northern Thai restaurant with a large crowd and a variety of unique dishes to try. We sampled the garlic-fried frog, which tasted similar to chicken but with a crispier texture. Overall, the food here tends to be on the sweeter side, but the prices are reasonable and affordable.

Let's stay inside the shop a little longer.

There is also an outdoor seating area.

Translation:

The food is here! Let's eat! This trip is all about eating. 555

Laan-Tim's Cafe & Gallery: A Coffee Oasis Before Leaving Town

This cafe, pronounced "Laan-Tim," not "Larn-Tim," might initially appear to be an ice cream shop due to its name. However, it is actually a serious coffee haven. The cafe is easily recognizable thanks to its unique wooden structure extending from the interior, resembling a house. While capturing the storefront in a photograph proved challenging, we managed to create a drawing instead. We stopped by Laan-Tim's before leaving town, making it our last stop before venturing further.

The entrance to the shop is beautiful, but I couldn't take a full picture because of the parked cars.

Shop logo at the entrance

Before we head inside to enjoy a cup of coffee, let's take a look at the balcony in front of the shop. How many cups do you think we'll drink?

The atmosphere in the shop is quiet and good for working.

Is this Tim's niece? Haha.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Is there anything else I can help you with?

The restaurant offers a variety of seating options to suit different preferences.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Sit high and come alone to sit handsome and beautiful.

One more picture.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Cute decorations

Iced lemon tea. If you don't drink coffee, you can have tea.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Cup 1 of coffee

The second cup of coffee

The third cup of coffee tonight, I won't be able to sleep.

Translation:

This sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Eat.sleep Cafe & bed: I came across this cafe while having lunch at Luu Laem yesterday. I thought it looked cute, so I decided to stop by for a meal. This place is both a cafe and a guesthouse. The cafe is white, simple, and surrounded by a garden.

The outdoor seating area would be pleasant if the weather were cool, but right now it's meltingly hot.

I long to bask in the warm sunshine, like in foreign lands.

Or we could take shelter here in the shade, but I think it's better to sit inside in the air conditioning. We can consider sitting outside when it's winter.

Translation:

I encountered another dog. At first, it ran towards me as if it wanted to play, but it ended up lying down instead.

Translation:

English:

The store also sells a variety of small items.

The room we are sitting in is definitely air-conditioned. It's so hot, I can't stand it anymore.

Another angle

The food here is delicious and affordable. This is the restaurant's signature chili paste fried rice, but I can't remember the name of the menu. Haha.