Chiang Mai Unleashed: Temples, Markets, and Adventure!

Discover the wonders of Chiang Mai with your loved ones, where family fun meets the heart of Thailand's cultural treasures.

19 July 2023

Chiang Mai, Thailand is an ideal destination for a family friendly trip, offering a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and exciting activities. Families can explore ancient temples, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and participate in traditional Thai ceremonies. Kids will delight in interacting with elephants at ethical sanctuaries, ziplining through lush forests, and exploring the fascinating night bazaars and markets.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Ancient Temples & Hidden Markets

  • Get lost amidst the grandeur of Wat Phra Singh, a dazzlingly ornate temple that'll make you feel like you've stepped into a mythical world.
  • Unleash your inner Indiana Jones at Wat Chedi Luang, an ancient temple with a towering ruin that's as mysterious as it is awe-inspiring.
  • Quench your thirst for bargains at the Warorot Market, where you can haggle with fiery-eyed locals for trinkets, spices, and even live eels!
  • Treat your taste buds to a symphony of flavors at Khao Soi Islam, a humble eatery dishing out mind-blowingly delicious coconut curry noodles.
  • Cap off the day with a trip to the Night Bazaar, a nocturnal wonderland where you can shop for souvenirs, get a traditional massage, or sample weird and wonderful street food.
Day 2

Nature's Embrace: Waterfalls & Elephant Encounters

  • Embark on a refreshing journey to the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, where the cascading waters of the Monthathan Waterfall will enchant your soul.
  • Go bananas at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, where you can ethically feed, bathe, and frolic with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
  • Indulge in a feast fit for a king at the River Terrace Restaurant, overlooking the serene Ping River and serving up mouthwatering Thai delicacies.
  • Channel your inner Tarzan (or Jane) with a visit to the Tree Top Adventure Park, where ziplining through lush forests will make your heart race.
  • Wind down at the Nimmanhaemin Road, a hipster haven filled with trendy cafes, quirky boutiques, and colorful street art.
Day 3

Cultural Immersion & Scenic Delights

  • Start your day with a visit to the Baan Tong Luang Ethnic Village, home to diverse hill tribes where you can learn about their fascinating customs and traditions.
  • Ascend to new heights aboard the Chiang Mai Cable Car, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains that'll take your breath away.
  • Dive into the Mae Sa Waterfall, a multi-tiered natural masterpiece where you can cool off and reconnect with nature's splendor.
  • Savor the delicate flavors of traditional Lanna cuisine at the breath-taking Dhara Dhevi Hotel, a luxurious oasis with stunning architecture.
  • End your stay with a captivating Khantoke dinner at the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center, where you'll be mesmerized by traditional dances and music.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Chiang Mai by plane is to fly into Chiang Mai International Airport, which is located just a few kilometers from the city center. Major airlines like Thai Airways, Air Asia, and Bangkok Airways provide regular flights to Chiang Mai from major cities in Thailand and other countries.

Car

The best way to get to Chiang Mai by car is to drive from Bangkok or other major cities in Thailand. The journey can take anywhere from 8-12 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions. The fastest route from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is via the Asian Highway 1, which runs through several provinces in central Thailand.

Train

The best way to get to Chiang Mai by train is to take the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok. The train takes around 12-15 hours to reach Chiang Mai and arrives at the Chiang Mai Railway Station in the city center. The train is a popular option among travelers because it offers comfortable beds and beautiful scenery along the way.

Boat

There is no way to reach Chiang Mai by boat as it is located in the northern part of Thailand and surrounded by mountains. However, there are several scenic boat tours available in Chiang Mai that take visitors along the Mae Ping River and through the beautiful natural scenery of the region.

Bus

The best way to get to Chiang Mai by bus is to take one of the many buses that operate between Chiang Mai and other cities in Thailand. Most of the buses depart from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) and arrive at the Chiang Mai Bus Terminal, which is located in the city center. The journey takes around 10-12 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions.

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