A Mini Guide to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai

In my humble opinion, #chiangmai is often overlooked as a destination to visit in Thailand. If you are looking to an alternative to Bangkok or beaches, this is a great vacation spot for a short, relaxing getaway.

To Do

Wat Phra Thai Doi Suthep

Chiang Mai is filled with beautiful,gleaming temples but the most sacred of all is the Wat Phra Thai Doi Suthep that sits on the Doi Suthep mountain. Legend is that this temple is built to house a bone of Buddha. It is a must visit if you are in Chiang Mai.

TIP: Head over early as it can get hot later In the day. Also be forewarned that the trip there could be hard for those who get car sick easily. Go prepared.

Hmong Village

One of the main attractions of Chiang Mai lies in the many diverse range of ethnic minorities that live there. The Hmong Village houses the Hmong tribe that settled in Chiang Mai from China.

TIP: It can be visited on the same trip to Wat Phra Thai Doi Suthep Temple.

Day Trip to Chiang Rai

Personally I don’t think Chiang Rai has much to offer on its own so it’s best to explore it as a day trip out of Chiang Mai.

TIP: For comfort, do splurge on a private tour as it’s a long trip and a private tour will offer flexibility.

Explore The Old City

It’s a small area fillled with temples every few steps. It’s a great area to just wander around, shop and go cafe hopping.

Jing Jai Market

A few notches up from the usual markets you find in Thailand. Shop crafts and artisanal items here. It houses a food market and cafes. Open on weekends.

TIP: Cash is King here.

Where/WhatTo Eat

Khao Soi

Best described as a creamy chicken noodle dish; this is the Must Have dish in Chiang Mai.

The House By Ginger

Most restaurants in Chiang Mai are casual. This is a place that offers a balance of good food, drinks and ambiance. The IG crowd will love this place.

Where To Stay

Tamarind Village

Named after the tamarind trees within its property, the Tamarind Village is a charming, romantic boutique resort found in The Old City.

Burirattana Hotel

A stunningly stylish hotel in The Old City. It’s located right on the Sunday Walking Street. Rooms are clean and roomy. It’s my choice of accommodation if I head back to Chiang Mai again.

#TravelGuide