Chiang Mai on a Budget: 5 Fun-Filled Days!

Discover the beauty of Chiang Mai without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Chiang Mai in Thailand offers a perfect budget-friendly getaway for travelers. Starting from affordable accommodations, low-cost public transportation to delicious local street delicacies, the trip can be managed on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's ancient temples, indulge in adventure activities, and enjoy the vibrant night markets to make the most out of their trip while still sticking to their budget.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Chiang Mai:

  • Check in to the budget-friendly Sleep Guesthouse
  • Explore the lively Warorot Market, where you can find local snacks and souvenirs
  • Visit the eye-catching Wat Chedi Luang, a ruined temple in the heart of the old city
  • Get lost in the maze-like alleys of the Sunday Walking Street, where you can find a wide range of street food and handicrafts
  • End the day with a traditional Thai massage at Lila Thai Massage, a non-profit organization that helps disadvantaged women learn a valuable skill
Day 2

Up in the Hills:

  • Take the red songthaew to the top of Doi Suthep, a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai
  • Explore the stunning Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a temple with a golden chedi and stunning views
  • Trek through the lush forest to reach Bhubing Palace, the royal winter residence
  • Visit a Hmong hill tribe village and learn about their way of life and handicrafts
  • Indulge in some Northern Thai cuisine at Khao Soy Nimman, a cozy restaurant with a unique twist on the popular dish
Day 3

Elephant Encounter:

  • Spend the day at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, a responsible and ethical sanctuary that rescues and cares for elephants
  • Feed, walk and bathe the gentle giants in their natural habitat
  • Learn about the history and plight of elephants in Thailand
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch of traditional Thai dishes
  • Relax and unwind at the peaceful Baan Suan Him Doi Homestay, surrounded by rice fields and mountains
Day 4

Culture and Crafts:

  • Take a workshop at Studio Naenna, a social enterprise that preserves traditional Thai textiles
  • Visit the Chiang Mai National Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region
  • Explore the bohemian Nimmanhaemin district, with its funky cafes and boutiques
  • Visit the quirky Art in Paradise 3D museum, where you can take fun and creative photos
  • Have dinner at Qahwa Cafe & Restaurant, a cozy spot that serves Middle Eastern and Thai fusion cuisine
Day 5

Adventure Time:

  • Head to Mae Rim for some outdoor adventure
  • Choose from ziplining, ATV riding, bungee jumping or white-water rafting
  • Have lunch at the scenic Fern Paradise, a garden filled with exotic ferns
  • Visit the romantic Bua Thong Waterfall, where you can climb up the limestone rocks and splash in the pools
  • End the trip with dinner at the bustling Night Bazaar, where you can find everything from souvenirs to street food.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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