Chiang Mai in 4: Your Ultimate Budget Adventure

Experience the charm of Chiang Mai without breaking the bank.

22 June 2023

Chiang Mai, Thailand is a perfect destination for those who wants to explore this fascinating country on a budget. This ancient walled city is a treasure trove of temples and bustling markets, and with a little research, you can enjoy this city while keeping the cost down. Popular free attractions include visiting temples, hiking in the Doi Suthep National Park, and exploring the Sunday Night Market.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Get Acquainted with Chiang Mai

  • Start the day at Warorot Market, try some Kha Nom Krok (coconut pancakes) and explore the stalls selling everything from spices to handicrafts.
  • Visit Wat Chedi Luang, a stunning ancient temple complex with a towering pagoda.
  • Admire the murals and carvings at Wat Phra Singh, a royal temple that's home to an iconic statue of Buddha.
  • Walk around the charming old city and be surprised at every turn with quaint cafes, street art, and hidden alleyways.
  • End the day at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, bargain for souvenirs and feast on street food.
  • Stay at: Hug Glur House and Hostel, a budget-friendly option with comfortable beds, clean facilities, and a friendly atmosphere.
Day 2

Adventure in the Mountains

  • Head to the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park and climb the 306 steps to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a temple atop a mountain with breathtaking views.
  • Trek through the jungle to visit the Karen Long Neck tribe and learn about their culture and unique tradition of wearing brass rings around their necks.
  • Take a dip in the refreshing waterfalls at Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls.
  • Stop by the Royal Park Ratchaphruek to see the beautiful displays of flora and fauna.
  • Enjoy the sunset at Huay Tung Tao Lake and rent a bamboo raft to paddle around.
  • Eat at: Khao Soi Khun Yai, a humble street food stall that serves arguably the best khao soi (curry noodle soup) in the city.
Day 3

Explore the Art and Craft Scene

  • Visit the Chiang Mai Arts and Cultural Center to learn about the history and development of art and culture in the region.
  • Peruse the galleries and shops around the Nimmanhaemin neighborhood, featuring contemporary art, vintage finds, and handmade crafts.
  • Take a workshop on traditional Thai art forms such as muay Thai, cooking, or fruit carving.
  • Get inspired at the Baan Kang Wat artist village, a hidden gem where local artists and artisans showcase their work.
  • Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of the many hip cafes or rooftop bars in the area.
  • Stay at: Noble House Chiang Mai, a stylish and affordable boutique hotel in the heart of the Nimmanhaemin area.
Day 4

Get Off the Beaten Path

  • Hire a scooter or bicycle and discover the lesser-known sights of Chiang Mai, such as the hidden temple of Wat Umong, the serene Mae Ngat Dam and Reservoir, or the quirky Museum of Insects and Natural Wonders.
  • Learn about the local sustainable farming techniques at the Pun Pun Organic Farm and Cafe, where everything is made from scratch and harvested fresh.
  • Take a dip in the hot springs of San Kamphaeng and let the mineral-rich waters soothe your muscles.
  • Watch the sunset from the sprawling fields of rice paddies at Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest peak in Thailand.
  • End the trip with a traditional Thai massage and a delicious meal at one of the many street food stalls or restaurants in the city.
  • Eat at: SP Chicken, a legendary street food stall that serves succulent grilled chicken with sticky rice and a variety of fresh sauces.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Chiang Mai

If Thailand's bustling cities and tourist-saturated beaches have you feeling more frazzled than relaxed, it's time to trade in the chaos for a little northern serenity in the heart of the land of smiles. Welcome to Chiang Mai, where the mountains are misty and the only thing more plentiful than the temples are the stray dogs.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

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Experience the Best of Chiang Mai in Two Days

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