The former headquarters of the Lanna kingdom is a quiet place to rest and recharge your batteries. Take part in the many activities offered by Chiang Mai, or take a walk to discover a city that remains completely thai as much by its atmosphere as by its attitude.
What to do?
What to visit?
- Wat Phra Singh Temple
The city of Chiang Mai is famous for its temples. This one owes its notoriety to the Phra Singh (Lion Buddha), the most revered Buddha statue in the city. It also stands out for its architecture and a collection of Lanna classical art.
- Wat Chedi Luang
Built between 1385 and 1402, during the reign of King Saen Muang Ma, 7th leader of the Mengrai dynasty, the massive pagoda of Wat Chedi Luang is very distinctive of the landscape of Chiang Mai.
- Wat Suan Dok
All white and gold, this temple has huge gardens and houses the mausoleums where rest the last dynasty of the Chiang Mai rulers
With a car
- Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
One of the most recognized Buddhist temples. For the bravest, climb the 306 steps to admire the pagoda, otherwise you can always take the funicular!
- Doi Inthanon National Park
In Doi Inthanon National Park, you will find the highest mountain in Thailand, in a park of over 48,000 hectares, with a peak at 2,565 metres. An incredible hike in the Thai mountains, which will require a full day.
Activities
- Visit the Sunday night market
Reminiscent of the travelling merchants of the old caravans, Sunday Walking Street offers all kinds of products, local crafts and a good insight into provincial culture.
- Visit an elephant sanctuary
Be careful to go to an ethical center that treats animals correctly, as many mistreat animals for profit.
- Take a Thai cooking class
Whether you are a beginner or passionate about cooking, this is an opportunity to discover the country’s traditional dishes and the local tips for making them.
- Attend a Thai boxing match
The opportunity to discover one of the traditional sports!
What to eat?
To be tested absolutely
The Khao Soi -
You can’t leave Chiang Mai without trying the Khao Soi. It’s coconut and curry soup, with egg noodles and chicken. The dish is topped with crispy egg noodles, which gives a very good mix of textures to the dish. To try absolutely!
$: Labkai
Very good typical restaurant with a beautiful decoration and a small outdoor terrace. Perfect to try a very good Khao Soi at low price.
Address: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai
$$: Asian Roots Restaurant
A good restaurant with a good atmosphere, good meals and quality food. Perfect for discovering Thai cuisine.
Address: 4/5, Chaiyaphum Road, Chang Moi, Chiang Mai
https://asianroots.business.site/
$$$: Favola (Le Méridien Chiang Mai)
If you are tired of Thai food, this Italian will satisfy you from starter to dessert.
Address: 108 Chang Klan Road,Chang Khlan, Le Meridien Chiang Mai
https://www.marriott.fr/hotels/travel/cnxmd-le-meridien-chiang-mai/
Where to stay?
$: Monkey Toe Guesthouse
Although in a dormitory, each bed is in the form of a small cabin, giving you a small cocoon of privacy.
Address: 248/21-22 Sahasripoom Place, Maneenoppharat Road Sripoom, Muang
https://www.booking.com/hotel
$$: 99 The Gallery Hotel
The hotel is well located, terrace, swimming pool and hearty breakfast
Address: 99 Intawaroroj Rd., T. Sriphum, A. Muang, Si Phum,Chiang Mai,
https://www.booking.com/hotel
$$$: Thai Akara - Lanna Boutique Hotel
Located in the heart of Chiang Mai, you will enjoy the setting and greenery around the pool
Address: 133 Ratchapakinai Rd. T.Sriphum A.Muang, Si Phum, Chiang Mai
https://www.booking.com/hotel/