Chiang Mai, Thailand-5-day-itinerary

August 4, 2024

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning
- Arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport
- Take a taxi or songthaew (red truck) to your accommodation ( approx. 15-20 minutes, 100-150 THB)
- Check-in at [Your Hotel Name] (see below for recommendations)
Afternoon
- Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep ( approx. 30 minutes from city center, entrance fee: 50 THB)
  - A stunning temple perched on a hill with panoramic views of the city
- Explore the bustling streets of Chiang Mai’s old town, including Tha Pae Road and its many shops and restaurants
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at Khao Soi Mae Sai, a popular spot for traditional Khao Soi noodles
- Try some street food at Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a sprawling market with food stalls and shops

Day 2: Culture and Nature

Morning
- Visit Wat Chedi Luang (free admission)
  - A historic temple complex that houses the famous Emerald Buddha replica
- Explore the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center (free admission), which showcases local art, music, and dance performances
Afternoon
- Take a cooking class at Baan Thai Cooking School, where you can learn to make traditional Thai dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry
- Visit the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (as mentioned in Day 1)
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at The Good View, a restaurant with stunning views of the city and the river
- Relax at Chiang Mai Night Market, a lively market with food stalls and live music

Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary and Hill Tribes

Morning
- Visit the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for rescued elephants
  - Take part in a guided tour and learn about elephant conservation efforts
Afternoon
- Visit the Bo Sang Umbrella Village, a small village famous for its handmade paper umbrellas
- Explore the surrounding countryside and hills, which offer stunning views of the valley below
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at Huen Phen Restaurant, a cozy spot with traditional Thai cuisine
- Visit the Night Bazaar (as mentioned in Day 1) for some last-minute shopping or street food

Day 4: Waterfalls and Hot Springs

Morning
- Take a day trip to Huay Tung Waterfall, a stunning waterfall in the hills
- Visit Thailand’s highest hot spring, a natural hot spring with stunning views of the surrounding countryside
Afternoon
- Enjoy lunch at Mae Wang Waterfall Restaurant, a cozy spot with traditional Thai cuisine
- Visit the Night Bazaar (as mentioned in Day 1) for some last-minute shopping or street food
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant, a cozy spot with stunning views of the river

Day 5: Markets and Farewell

Morning
- Visit Chiang Mai Walking Street Market, a bustling market with food stalls and shops
- Shop for some last-minute souvenirs or gifts at Chiang Mai Night Market
Afternoon
- Enjoy lunch at Khao Soi Mae Sai, a popular spot for traditional Khao Soi noodles
- Depart for the airport or your next destination

Hotel Recommendations

Getting Around

Taxis: widely available and affordable ( approx. 100-150 THB for a short ride)
Songthaews (red trucks): a popular mode of transportation in Chiang Mai, with fixed routes and prices ( approx. 20-30 THB per person)
Motorbikes: can be rented at various shops around the city, but be aware that traffic laws are not always followed by locals
Walking: Chiang Mai is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other

Tips

Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots.
Try to learn some basic Thai phrases, such as “sawatdee” (hello), “khop khun krap” (thank you), and “mai ow hai” (excuse me).
Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting temples or other cultural sites.
Don’t drink tap water, and stick to bottled or filtered water instead.
Be prepared for crowds and long lines during peak tourist season (December to March).

I hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Chiang Mai!