Charming Chiang Mai Day Trip

Discover the authentic beauty of Thailand in Chiang Mai.

22 April 2023

Chiang Mai is a stunning city in northern Thailand, surrounded by lush green mountains and breathtaking scenery. It is a hub of ancient culture and history with its countless temples, museums, and markets. Must-see attractions include the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, and the famous Night Bazaar.

Day trip plan

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Day

Chiang Mai Charm

  • Start off with a hearty breakfast at the rustic and picturesque Woo Cafe, complete with croissants, eggs Benedict and fresh juices
  • Head to the ancient Wat Phra Singh temple, where the gilded Buddha statue glimmers under soft light and the monks chant soothingly
  • Stroll through the bustling Warorot Market, and stock up on fragrant Thai spices, intricate handicrafts, and local snacks like grilled pork skewers and mango sticky rice
  • Take a slow walk up to Doi Suthep, the hilltop temple famed for its breathtaking views of the city, and marvel at the intricate carvings, chimes and shrines
  • Return to the city, and pamper yourself with a traditional Thai massage at one of the many spas dotting the town, such as Oasis Spa or Fah Lanna Spa
  • End the day with a casual yet fulfilling dinner at the Night Bazaar, where you can sample myriad street foods such as pad thai, tom yum soup, and fresh papaya salad, while perusing the handicraft and souvenir stalls.

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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