If we have already convinced you to go to Thailand and visit Bangkok's hidden wonders, now it's the perfect time to continue your asian adventure and move to the second most important city of the country: Chiang Mai.
We have ready for you a 3 days trip to do not miss, do you want to see what is waiting for you?
DAY 01
1. Historic Center
Chiang Mai is divided in two parts: the one walled and the second one opened. Here we refer to the first one, the one which stays inside the imposing wall that back on its days served to defend from the burmeses' attacks.
It is an almost square shape and it is surrounded by a pit that delimites what was the old city. Pick a map and let you get lost through its pedestrian streets!
2. Three Kings Monument
It is about king Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Mai, king Ramkamhaeng of Sukothai and the king Ngam Muang of Payao; who, according to legend, worked together to build the city.
In front of the Cultural and Artistic Center, you can admire the old building of the provincial administration.
3. Temples
You will find temples all over the city, there are more than 300 in the downtown! All of them are worthy of visit and admire their beauty, but we believe that these 3 are the ones that you can't miss.
WAT CHIANG MAN: It is the oldest one in the city and here you will admire 2 venerated images: Buda Phra Sila (Buddha of Marble) and Phra Satang Man (Buddha of Glass). Also, it was the home of king Mengray, the most famous that Chiang Mai had.
WAT CHIANG LUANG: Famous for contain the ruins of its biggest chedi, a sample of Lannas's religious architecture.
WAT PHRA SINGH: It is about the most important temple during the festivity of Songkram.
4. Suan Buak Haad Park
The most popular park in Chiang Mai, with lots of grass where you can relax, it's the only natural area inside the city.
If you want to practice a bit of akroyoga, learn takraw or lay on an authentic bamboo mat, this is your place!
DAY 02
1. Bhubing Palace
Also known as Winter Royal Palace, is a royal residence in Doi Buak Ha, built in 1961 and that count with a guesthouse.
It belongs to Ruean Mu (group of houses) architectonic style and has two levels: the upper one is the royal residence, while the lower one hosts the royal bondage.
The palace is open to the public exept when the royal family is in there, usually from january to march.
2. National Parks
There are two parks in Chiang Mai that you should visit if you have a chance, they are also pretty close one to each other.
DO INTHARON: Here you will see the highest points of Thailand and a huge variety of flora and fauna. Inside it, there is the Wat Prahthat Tong temple, that harbor the Budda's relics.
DOI SUTHEP: Make one of their tours or rent a motorbike to roam this beautiful park, admire the highest mountain in Thailand or swim in one of its frosted cascades. Neither should miss the Wat Prha That Suthep temple, with an unique view from the top of its numerous stairs.
3. Markets
In Chiang Mai there are lots of markets where you can roam and find actual bargains, especially if you know how to do it!
Between the Nakornping and the Nawart bridges, on the banks of Ping river, we found two of them that we absolutly recommend you: Warorot Market, also known as Chinatown, and Ton Lamyai Market, or the flowers market.
Finish your day with the well know night market. Kalare Night Bazaar consists of a series of large tents with multitude of stalls, restaurants and areas with tables, and is surrounded by ambulatory food places.
DAY 03
1. Elephant Nature Park
It is a rehab and rescure center for elephants where you can help as a volunteer. The park offers a natural environment not only for elephants, but dogs, cats, buffalos...
Visit the sanctuary, help the animals and learn about their lives, the past and the future ones!
2. Huai Tueng Thai Lake
Get close to the Huai Tuang Thai if you want to have a funny and amuse afternoon without spending a lot of money.
You will enjoy of different activities as hiking, swimming or biking, with an amazing view of its calm waters sourrended by mountains. When you are hungry, there are two options: choose one of their picnic style restaurant or buy a snack from a seller walking around the area.
3. Bann Phor Liang Meun - Terracotta Garden
An almost forgotten garden with a old look, mossy and full of terracotta treasures. It is actually a studio and open showroom of this material art.
You will find hindu and buddhist sculptures, awesome examples of southeast asian art. Don't forget that you can buy all the pieces that you find in the garden.
You can access throuh the Chiang Mai gate and the entrance is free.
4. San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
For finish this amazing trip, we recommend you to chill with hot waters in their hot springs, located in a beautiful park with colorfull flowers and grass in good mantenience. One of their main attractions, both for tourists and for local people, includes the fountain and a camping area, a pool and a restaurant.
WHERE TO STAY IN CHIANG MAI
So you don't have to be worry about anything, we have selected two accommodations to spend your stay in Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai International Youth Hostel: Between the Mae Ping river and the holy mountain of Doi Suthep. The hostel is in a quite neighborhood, famous for its night market. Prices starts at €6.25 per person per night.
Urban House Chiang Mai Hotel:10 minutes from the International Airport of Chiang Mai and close to a mall. In this hotel you will find different kind of rooms and a 24 hours reception. Prices starting from €10.61 per person per night.
If you want - of course! - visit more abou Asia, we recommend you to read this article about the 5 things to do whili visiting Bali. Won't regret!
Photo cover by Mariam Michelle
