The province of Chiang Mai may not be as popular as Bangkok or Phuket, but it is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and serene travel experience. Nestled among hills and jungle, Chiang Mai is the largest city in northern Thailand. In my view, it is one of the most enthralling regions in Thailand, replete with a rich, intricate history and numerous splendid attractions and temples.
If you’re considering a trip or simply curious, I invite you to discover Chiang Mai. However, before we start, let me clarify that this post is merely an introduction to the exploration of this region. The list of places to visit, including my personal “Chiang Mai must-see” list, is far longer. Regrettably, my trip did not afford me the time to tick off all these points, but that’s an excellent reason to return.
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Chiang Mai Temples
One of the primary attractions in Chiang Mai that draws tourists from all corners of the globe is its temples. The Chiang Mai region is home to more than 300 Buddhist temples, also known as “wats”. Not only do they offer spiritual experiences, but in my opinion, they are genuine works of art, breathtaking in their architecture and intricate detailing. Needless to say, each one boasts its unique history, style, and character.
Your choice of temples to visit largely depends on your available time and transportation options. I managed to explore three places, which I will detail below. If given the opportunity, I would have journeyed further, even to Chiang Rai, but perhaps that’s for next time.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Probably the most famous and visited temple in Chiang Mai is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Perched atop Doi Suthep, this golden temple not only offers impressive religious sights but also panoramic views of Chiang Mai city. It features a large, gold-covered stupa (or mound) and many other beautifully adorned buildings.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to participate in the unique Buddhist festival, Visakha Bucha Day, an extraordinary experience that I hope to describe in detail someday.
Wat Pha Lat
Often referred to as the “temple in the jungle,” Wat Pha Lat is one of Chiang Mai’s lesser-known but incredibly picturesque sites. Nestled on the path to Doi Suthep, this monastery is enveloped by dense forest and natural streams. Unlike the predominantly golden and glittering temples of Thailand, Wat Pha Lat boasts a more austere and natural aesthetic that harmonizes with the surrounding environment. Various statues of Buddha and other religious figures dot the temple grounds, often set against a backdrop of lush vegetation and rocky terrain.
Wat Ban Pong
My last stop was the White Pagoda at Ban Pong Temple, located about 20 kilometers southwest of Chiang Mai. This spectacular pagoda sits atop a hill, and before reaching it, you pass Ban Pong Temple itself, another worship site. The temple’s design blends perfectly with the surrounding landscape.
To reach the white pagoda, you can ascend 900 steps or take the steep winding road. Regardless of your choice, the tour is exceptional! The moment you enter the white pagoda, its unique aura is palpable. Given the scant number of visitors, you’ll likely have the opportunity to explore the pagoda independently. The site is incredibly serene, and panoramic views of the Chiang Dao mountains complement the scenery.
Saturday Market in Chiang Mai
Another unconventional site worth exploring is the Saturday Night Market. Hosted every Saturday evening on Wualrai Road, it attracts hordes of both tourists and locals.
The market springs to life at dusk, as the streets brim with vibrant stalls selling everything from traditional handicrafts to clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, and much more. Here, you can find an eclectic array of items – from knockoffs of famous brands to handmade items and traditional Thai food products.
But the Chiang Mai Saturday Night Market is not just about shopping. It’s also an excellent spot to savor authentic Thai cuisine. Street food stalls serve popular dishes like pad thai, mango sticky rice, green papaya salad, along with a variety of fish, meat, dumplings, and desserts. The unforgettable tastes and aromas will, like they did for me, make you yearn to return to Chiang Mai.
It’s worth visiting not just for the shopping but also to immerse yourself in the night market’s vibrant ambiance. You can enjoy performances by local artists and observe traditional dances.
Lanna Kingdom Wisdom School
No discussion about Chiang Mai is complete without mentioning the Lanna Kingdom. Spanning the northern part of Thailand, the kingdom is renowned for its distinctive heritage, intertwining tradition, art, and religion. This rich tapestry renders Chiang Mai one of the most captivating regions in Thailand. The Lanna Kingdom was also poetically known as the ‘Kingdom of a Million Rice Fields’.
Dating back to the 13th century, the Lanna Kingdom was established by King Mangrai. The region rapidly evolved into a hub for trade and culture, luring people from various parts of Asia. Though the kingdom became a vassal state (initially of Burma, then part of Thailand) from the 18th century, its heritage is still revered today. Lanna culture is incredibly diverse and steeped in tradition. Art, embodied in wood carvings, temple wall paintings, and handicrafts, plays a significant role.
One can even learn traditional martial arts here. I had an unforgettable experience at the Lanna Wisdom School, where I took a martial arts lesson. This adventure underscored the importance of balance in life and offered me insights into the unique skills possessed by the locals. If you’re heading to Chiang Mai, this place is a must-visit.
The City of Chiang Mai
Resting on the Ping River, Chiang Mai is the second-largest city in the country and the biggest in the eponymous region. The city boasts numerous sites, monuments, and temples, which offer spiritual experiences and exemplify Buddhist architecture and art. Chiang Mai is famous for its festivals, which draw the local community and tourists from around the globe. One major event is the renowned Yi Peng, a festival wherein hundreds of lanterns adorn the night sky, casting a magical aura.
Culinary Delights in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a gastronomic paradise for Thai cuisine enthusiasts. Here, you can relish a multitude of delectable dishes and flavors. If you’re a noodle aficionado, Chiang Mai is the place to be. You can savor traditional Thai pad thai or khao soi – crispy noodles typically served with meat and fresh spices. This is guaranteed to be a memorable culinary experience! When it comes to mangoes, Chiang Mai is renowned for its exceptionally sweet varieties. At local markets, you’ll find mangoes served in numerous ways – from classic slices, to drinks, to desserts featuring mangoes.
Where to Dine in Chiang Mai?
I recommend starting with street food, especially those found at the Saturday market. Here you’ll find meat dumplings, iconic papaya salad, mangoes, and a range of freshly-squeezed juices. Grilled options are also available, so this place comes highly recommended.
For a more sophisticated lunch, try the Blakitch Artisan Kitchen (Organic Chef Table), where they serve a selection of ten small dishes that blend traditional and Thai flavors. For traditional Khao Soi noodles, I suggest the Boonrawd Kitchen, where you can sample a variety of Northern Thai dishes.
Accommodation in Chiang Mai
Consider whether you’d prefer to stay within the city or in the surrounding areas, such as the mountains. Chiang Mai offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Take some time to find the ideal place for you, whether that’s hotels, hostels, apartments, or houses.
I personally stayed in two hotels. Kantary Hills is conveniently located within the city and offers enjoyable breakfasts. The best recent accommodation I’ve stayed at is Flora Creek, nestled in the mountains at the edge of the jungle. The hotel, surrounded by a magnificent garden, is supremely comfortable. It’s a place where one could easily spend a week, marveling at the surroundings.
Booking.comWhy Visit Chiang Mai?
The reasons are numerous. In my opinion, this region is perfect for those who adore mountains, history, and culture. Moreover, it is more affordable than southern Thailand, and the array of attractions is vast. Life here is more peaceful than in Bangkok, yet far from dull.
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