Exploring the Hidden Charms of Nan, Thailand with Friends

Erosion, Enlightenment, and Evening Eats

Today was a day of contrasts, exploring the ancient landscapes carved by time and the serene beauty of Nan's spiritual heart. It was a day where the earth spoke of millennia past, and the temples whispered of inner peace. Add to that some incredible food, and you have a day I’ll not soon forget.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restart Bar&Bistro. I opted for a classic American breakfast to fuel up for the day's adventures. It's always interesting to see how different cultures interpret familiar dishes, and this was a solid start to the day. I must admit, I did miss Mere's cooking. She always knows how to make breakfast feel like a warm hug from home. Maybe I’ll try my hand at making some Fijian-inspired breakfast when I get back to Vancouver.

From there, we ventured out to Sao Din Na Noi, a place that truly feels like stepping onto another planet. The landscape is surreal, with towering pillars of earth sculpted by centuries of wind and rain. As someone who grew up on the sandy shores of Fiji, I’m used to seeing the power of erosion, but this was something else entirely. It felt like wandering through a miniature Grand Canyon, right here in Thailand. The early morning light cast long shadows, accentuating the otherworldly formations. The entrance fee was 20 THB per person. I couldn’t help but think how Sailosi would have loved exploring this place, running around the unique landscape, pretending to be an intrepid explorer. I made a mental note to show him the pictures and videos I took; maybe one day, we can all come back here together.


Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Sao Din Na Noi, a unique geological wonder in Thailand's Nan Province, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After spending a good couple of hours marveling at Sao Din Na Noi, we headed to Wat Phaya Phu Phra Aram Luang. This temple, over six centuries old, offered a stark contrast to the raw, untamed beauty of Sao Din Na Noi. Built during the reign of Pra Chao Phukheng, it exudes a sense of history and tranquility. The vihara houses two ancient Buddha images, and the carved doors depicting mythical giant guards are truly impressive. As I stood before the main Buddha image, bathed in golden light, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – to experience different cultures, to connect with something larger than myself.


Experience the serene beauty and spiritual tranquility of Wat Phaya Phu Phra Aram Luang, a hidden gem in Nan, Thailand.

For lunch, we decided to try Nan Green House, a restaurant that came highly recommended. And it did not disappoint! The fusion of Thai and Western cuisine was a welcome change, and the food was incredibly fresh and flavorful. I opted for the ribs, which were fall-off-the-bone tender and delicious. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and the staff were friendly and attentive. It reminded me of some of the cozy cafes back in Vancouver, but with a distinct Thai twist. It’s always great to find places that offer a mix of familiar and new flavors. Nan Green House is a local restaurant with a western vibe that offers delicious and fresh food at very reasonable prices.


Experience the rich flavors of Thailand at Nan Green House – your destination for authentic Thai cuisine in Mueang Nan District.

As the day wound down, we found ourselves at Rocket to the moon • Craft beer bar. I’m not usually a big beer drinker, but I was intrigued by the name and the promise of craft beer. The bar had a quirky, welcoming vibe, and the selection of local and international beers was impressive. I decided to try a local Thai craft beer, and it was surprisingly good – crisp, refreshing, and the perfect way to end a day of exploring. It seems like Rocket to the Moon is a vibrant sanctuary for beer lovers and casual visitors alike.


Experience the vibrant craft beer scene at Rocket to the Moon, a unique bar in Nan, Thailand, offering a diverse selection of brews and a welcoming atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Yum Chu Ros, eager to sample more authentic Thai cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with locals, which is always a good sign. I ordered a green curry, and it was rich, spicy, and incredibly satisfying. It was a perfect end to a day filled with exploration and cultural immersion. The Chu Ros Thai team is committed to bringing fresh ingredients and original recipes straight from their hometowns in Thailand to their customers.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Yum Chu Ros in Nan – where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

As I sit here reflecting on the day, I’m struck by the incredible diversity of experiences Nan has to offer. From the ancient, eroded landscapes of Sao Din Na Noi to the serene temples and vibrant culinary scene, this hidden gem of Thailand has captured my heart. I’m also reminded of how much I miss my family back home. I know Mere and Sailosi would have loved exploring these places with me. I’m already looking forward to sharing my stories and photos with them when I get back to Vancouver.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Nan Noble House and Wat Hua Khuang. I’m excited to delve deeper into the history and culture of this fascinating region. And who knows what other culinary delights await us? I’m also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Nan Nakara Boutique to bring back home to Mere and Sailosi.

I also read that the Naga Fireball World Festival will be celebrated soon. Maybe I’ll extend my trip so I can witness this mystical event where glowing fireballs rise from the Mekong River.

Until then, sawasdee krap from Nan!