Originally Posted by
RetiredRoadWarrior
Any detailed recommendations on driving in the north . . .
I can recommend a loop exCNX through Mae Hong Son down to Mae Siriang and finally over Doi Inthanon. While I wouldn't recommend renting a car solely to go to Muang Chiang Rai it is worthwhile if you want to head into the northern stretches of the province.
Alternatively there are quick day trips down to Lamphun or Lampang.