TarunChiang Mai is Thailand’s second-largest city, right after Bangkok! Lot of people plan to visit Chiang Mai for Loy Krathong festival which usually happens around November and entire sky comes alive with thousands of sky lantern (this one’s still on my bucket list!)
Chaing Mai Highlights on Instagram: Link
Stay Recommendation
The Common Hostel: Not so social, but great amenities and a prime location in the city center with everything nearby. The WiFi was reliable, making it a good option for a workation.
Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/q48LxWYyU1ysowJJA
Note: If you’re looking for a more social hostel, check reviews where they talk about the host rather than just the amenities.
Places to visit
1. Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan
Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan is one of Chiang Mai’s most revered temples, known for its stunning Lanna architecture. During my visit, I was lucky to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom, and the temple looked truly magical at sunset.
Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6Spkcjzpgt8oXGwH8
2. Doi Suthep
Doi Suthep is a temple located on a higher altitute, offering breathtaking views of Chiang Mai from its summit. To reach the temple, you’ll need to climb a few stairs, but it’s worth it for the serene gardens and panoramic cityscape at the top.
Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nGNQCaWjNyhcdPMA8
3. Wat Pha Lat
Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hd6D5TNbsLqawJuf8
4. Hike from Wat Pha Lat to Wat Fai Hin
I hiked from Wat Pha Lat to Wat Fai Hin, though most people typically go the other way. I opted for a downhill trek. While the hike itself isn’t particularly remarkable, you’ll definitely feel the best humidity of your life as I did the hike in May. Interestingly, this same trail was once used as a walking route to Doi Suthep.
If you use this trail, at the end you may need to walk on the concrete road for more than a kilometer. Though at the end you really find a cool cafe to eat and grab snacks.
5. Wat Lok Moli
Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RcFSLXHBEt7Hp2zV8
Party Places in Chiang Mai
1. Zoe in Yellow
Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1s4Gx8rdhDaZEJW19
This is the place where you’ll find lot of expats. There are lot of more party places around the same lane, perfect place to spend the evening and enjoy the beer. The music maybe bit loud
2. SPV CAFE
A cozy little spot in Chiang Mai where you’re suppose to just find locals and young crowd.
Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KHzUWnsVyAYv53h59
3. White Line Studio
This place is really small and you’re suppose to just find locals. The live music was really amazing here. Maybe a perfect place for date or when you want to talk to your friends
Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xXzhx1GfXyR48FET8
Cafes/Food Recommendation in Chaing Mai
1. Teng Nueng
Google Maps Location: Teng Nueng
2. Chada Vegetarian Restaurant
It’s really great place for vegans. Their vegetarian friend rice was exceptionally great
Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nm3q6P4Cpy5EV3JcA
3. Zohng Coffee
Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xiNNFK4n9Zs26Nus7
Other cafes which I didn’t visit
Fern Forest Cafe, Woo Cafe-Art Gallery-Lifestyle Shop, Cafe de Thaan Aoan, Caramellow Cafe, Cafe de Oasis & Toby’s Pizza
FAQs
What should I cover in Thailand if I have 3 weeks?
I’ll suggest not to go to the southern part of Thailand if you have 3 weeks, I’ll stick to the North and Central. You have enough to explore in Chiang Mai, Chaing Rai & Pai. Few more National Parks between Bangkok and Chaing Mai. You’ll need easily 2-3 weeks if you want to hop around the Islands in the South
I made the mistake of going to the Island in my one month plan while exploring Thailand, I did it really fast and will not recommend the same.
Which is better, Chaing Mai or Chaing Rai?
If I want to choose between Chiang Mai and Chaing Rai, I’ll spend more time in Chaing Rai. Few of the amazing places like white temple, blue temple are in Chaing Rai
Travel Munch Repeat Recommendation for Chiang Mai
I’ll recommend to visit Pai when you plan Chiang Mai. Pai has such an amazing and lowkey vibe, I’ll recommend not to miss it when you travel to Chiang. They also have tipsy tubing which is one of the best in Thailand, it\’s actually better than the one I did in Laos.
Tarun
