Chiang Mai, Thailand-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Old City

  • 9:00 AM: Start at the Tha Phae Gate (Wat Phra Singh), one of the four city gates of Chiang Mai. Take a photo in front of the gate and explore the surrounding streets.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a beautiful temple perched on top of a hill with stunning views of the city. You can take a taxi or ride-hailing service to get there.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Khao Soi Mae Sai, a popular restaurant serving traditional Chiang Mai noodle soup.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center (CAC) to learn about local art and culture. The CAC also offers a variety of exhibitions and performances throughout the year.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Huen Phen Restaurant, known for its delicious Thai cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

Accommodation

Stay at the stylish Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, a 5-star resort located in the heart of Chiang Mai. Enjoy luxurious amenities, including a pool, fitness center, and spa.

Things to know

  • Don’t forget to try some street food! Chiang Mai has a wide variety of delicious and affordable options.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings when walking around the city. Some areas can be crowded and busy.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or cultural sites.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Transportation

Take a taxi or ride-hailing service (such as Grab) to get around Chiang Mai. Tuk-tuks are also available but can be more expensive.

Tips

  • Learn some basic Thai phrases, such as “sawatdee” (hello), “khop khun krap” (thank you), and “mai ow hai” (excuse me).
  • Bargain when shopping at markets or from street vendors.
  • Don’t drink tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water.

Day 2: Explore the Countryside

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the famous Bo Sang Umbrella Village, where you can learn about traditional umbrella-making and even try your hand at making one yourself!
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at a local restaurant in the village.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the nearby Wat Phra That Chedi Luang temple, which is said to house the heart of Buddha.
  • 4:00 PM: Head back to Chiang Mai and visit the bustling Night Bazaar for some shopping and dinner.

Accommodation

Stay at the Hotel M Chiang Mai, a stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s old city. Enjoy comfortable rooms, a rooftop bar, and free Wi-Fi.

Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for rescued elephants.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at the park’s restaurant.
  • 2:30 PM: Take part in an elephant bathing experience (optional).
  • 5:00 PM: Head back to Chiang Mai and enjoy dinner at The Good View, a cozy riverside restaurant serving delicious Thai cuisine.

Accommodation

Stay at the Artin Bed & Breakfast, a charming B&B located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s old city. Enjoy comfortable rooms, a garden, and free Wi-Fi.

Day 4: Hill Tribes

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Hmong Hill Tribe Village, where you can learn about their customs and traditions.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at a local restaurant in the village.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the nearby Karen Hill Tribe Village, which is known for its traditional silverwork and craftsmanship.
  • 4:00 PM: Head back to Chiang Mai and visit the bustling Night Bazaar for some shopping and dinner.

Accommodation

Stay at the Baan Thai Residence, a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s old city. Enjoy comfortable rooms, a garden, and free Wi-Fi.

Day 5: Cooking Class

  • 9:00 AM: Take part in a cooking class at Cooking School by Yummy, where you can learn how to make traditional Thai dishes.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy the fruits of your labor over lunch.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the nearby Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center (CAC) to learn about local art and culture. The CAC also offers a variety of exhibitions and performances throughout the year.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Riverside Bar, a cozy riverside restaurant serving delicious Thai cuisine.

Accommodation

Stay at the Chiang Mai Plaza Hotel, a comfortable hotel located in the heart of Chiang Mai. Enjoy spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi.

Day 6: Last Day in Chiang Mai

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple once again.
  • 11:00 AM: Grab some last-minute shopping or souvenirs at a local market.
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Khao Soi Mae Sai, a popular restaurant serving traditional Chiang Mai noodle soup.
  • 2:00 PM: Head back to the airport for your departure flight.

Tips

  • Don’t forget to try some street food! Chiang Mai has a wide variety of delicious and affordable options.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings when walking around the city. Some areas can be crowded and busy.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or cultural sites.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Transportation

Take a taxi or ride-hailing service (such as Grab) to get around Chiang Mai. Tuk-tuks are also available but can be more expensive.

Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you may want to adjust it based on your own preferences and interests.