Mountains Thailand - Northern Thailand is characterized largely by forested mountains, where working elephants are still used in forest management. This mountainous region is home to Thailand's many colorful hilltribe people, and trekking and river rafting enable adventurous exploration of this beautiful area. Chiang Mai is the principal norhtern city and is a good base from which to explore the surrounding countryside. Chiang Rai is the most northern province, and from here one can visit the Golden Triangle where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet.