Wife and I plan to drive from Bangkok to Nan in early May. A night or two in Nan city then probably make the loop north on route 1080 and back to Nan via 1081. Assorted stops along the way, like Doi Phu Ka NP, Pua and anywhere else that may look interesting. Any suggestions?

Unfortunately this is not the most beautiful time of year for a road trip. Even if we get rain in the next few weeks there won’t be enough time for things to green up. If you are feeling adventurous on the way there, the 1268 is an interesting and remote road taking you past Phu Soi Dao and other sites along the way. If you are considering continuing on to Chiang Rai then the 1148 to Chiang Kham is a nice twisty road. You may be content with the 1080 and 1081 loop, with stops to checkout the scenic sights along the route. Just don’t push too hard on the narrow winding roads and have a great time.

Pua's outlying small villages on the 1081 when it is not so dry with the mountain range as a backdrop is spectacular.

Here is one of my favorite road shots from a trip to Nan a few years back.

Great pics VF.

New to forum interested in Nan region and particularly the Nan river source, plan to look around the area next year. We have a house in Taphah hin on the Nan river. Any info on Nan area would be of great interest.