Welcome to Chiang Mai, the jewel of northern Thailand, where tradition and modernity meet with unrivalled grace. It’s in this exceptional setting that together we’ll explore mythical temples, immerse ourselves in Thai culinary culture and marvel at the surrounding natural splendors.
Chiang Mai, known as the “Pearl of Northern Thailand”, with its misty mountains, majestic temples and vibrant night markets, is a veritable crossroads of cultures and histories. This city is somewhere between tradition and modernity, attracting travelers and digital nomads alike, with its famous temples and night markets lighting up the evenings.
But what must you do and see to capture the essence of this fascinating city?
Here’s our roadmap for a memorable adventure.
Visit Chiang Mai and its mythical temples
Chiang Mai, nicknamed the “Rose of the North”, is dotted with glittering temples that tell tales of a glorious past. These sanctuaries, with their gleaming chedis and intricate carvings, are not only places of worship, but also time capsules of Thai craftsmanship and spirituality.
The enigmatic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Chiang Mai’s most majestic temples
Perched high above Doi Suthep, this temple is a must-see. To reach it, you climb a staircase adorned with mythical snakes, promising an almost mystical ascent of no less than 300 steps! At the top, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of Chiang Mai, not to mention the splendour of the temple itself. You’ll have a panoramic view of the whole city.
The best things to do: Chiang Mai’s old town, a historical treasure trove
Strolling through the old town is like stepping back in time. Surrounded by walls and pits dating back centuries, you’ll be charmed by the narrow streets, traditional teak houses and small artisanal cafés. Every street corner is full of surprises. Authenticity is the name of the game here.
Wat Chiang Man: the city’s Thai heritage
It’s the city’s oldest temple, a place where Chiang Mai’s history comes to life. Wat Chiang Man is famous for its sacred relics and crystal Buddha, surrounded by an aura of mystery and devotion.
Wat Chiang Man is located in the historic heart of Chiang Mai, inside the old city walls. More precisely, the temple is located on Ratchaphakhinai Road, between Phra Pok Klao 13 and Ratchaphakhinai 1, in Chiang Mai’s old town.
Wat Chiang Man was founded by King Mengrai in 1296, when he established the new capital of the Lanna kingdom.
Culinary immersion during your trip to Thailand: take a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai
What better way to understand a culture than to immerse yourself in its flavors? Thai cooking classes invite you to explore the secrets of local cuisine, from fragrant spices to traditional techniques, and bring a piece of Chiang Mai to your dinners.
Here are a few well-known schools where you can learn to prepare typical dishes such as Thai curry, padthai or mango with glutinous rice:
- Chiang Mai Thai Cookery School: run by renowned chef Sompon Nabnian, this school offers courses for beginners and advanced cooks, specializing in Northern Thai cuisine.1
- Thai Akha Cooking School offers traditional Thai cooking classes in a relaxed, family atmosphere, providing a taste of authentic flavours near Chiang Mai.3
- Khroua Baan Thai: recommended for cooking classes in French in a friendly atmosphere.4
- Smile Organic Farm Cooking School offers cooking classes in a natural setting, with the option of picking fresh ingredients from their organic farm.3
Local specialties, night markets and Muay Thai matches
Chiang Mai’s night markets are an ode to life, a place where bewitching aromas, shimmering colors and welcoming smiles mingle. Specialties such as khao soi (the emblematic dish of northern Thailand, combining spicy flavors, contrasting textures and Burmese influences in a noodle soup with curry and coconut milk) are a culinary experience not to be missed. In the evening, don’t miss the chance to attend one of the pillars of Thai culture: a Muay Thai boxing match. It’s a truly impressive spectacle to see this national sport in the flesh!
Adventure and nature: explore Chiang Mai and the surrounding area
At the gateway to Chiang Mai, nature reigns supreme. From trekking in national parks to visiting hidden waterfalls and exploring mysterious caves, adventure is always on the agenda.
Doi Inthanon: the roof of Thailand
Doi Inthanon National Park, with its highest peak, offers breathtaking scenery. It’s an invitation to reconnect with nature, through rhododendron-lined trails and spectacular waterfalls.
The best things to do in Chiang Mai
Beyond the temples and markets, Chiang Mai offers a wide variety of activities. From bicycle rides in the countryside to local craft workshops, every day is a new adventure.
Meeting elephants: a responsible and memorable experience
Meeting elephants in an ethical way is a deeply moving experience. In dedicated sanctuaries, we learn how to care for these gentle giants, a privileged moment that reminds us of the importance of conservation.
Here are the best elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai:
- Elephant Nature Park(1245): one of the first establishments in Chiang Mai to rescue elephants and create an ethical refuge, located 15 minutes from the city. Here you can feed, bathe and walk with the elephants in the wild.
- Elephant Jungle Sanctuary(3): offers half-day or full-day excursions to interact with elephants in a natural environment, allowing visitors to feed them and immerse themselves in their daily lives.
- Thong Elephant Sanctuary(3) and Elephant Village Sanctuary(3): two other sanctuaries renowned for the well-being of their elephants.
These sanctuaries focus on the respect and well-being of elephants, avoiding activities such as riding or performing. They offer guided tours and respectful interaction with these majestic animals.
Relaxing at Lake Huay Tung Tao with your family: enjoy the green banks and swimming
Lake Huay Tung Tao is a veritable oasis of tranquillity and natural beauty, located just a few kilometers north of Chiang Mai.
Nestled in a green setting at the foot of the mountains, the lake offers a peaceful and serene setting, in contrast to the hustle and bustle of the nearby city. Visitors can take advantage of the lake’s verdant shores to stroll, cycle or simply relax.
Swan boats are available for hire to take you around the lake. You can also swim in the calm waters of the lake. Ideal for cooling off after a visit to one of the city’s temples.
From Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: a captivating getaway
A journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai reveals hidden wonders, from the majestic White Temple to mountain communities. It’s a road full of discoveries, with each stop offering a new perspective on Thailand’s diversity.
Getting to Chiang Mai from Bangkok: travel tips
Whether you choose the night train for a romantic adventure, the bus for an economical option or the plane for speed, traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai will offer you a different experience of Thailand.
The bus remains a relatively cheap but uncomfortable means of transport, especially on long journeys (the one between Bangkok and Chiang Mai takes around 9 hours!).
By comparison, the plane takes an hour and the train 11 to 14 hours.
