Chiang Mai, Thailand-3-day-itinerary

Chiang Mai, Thailand 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Old City

  • Morning: Start your day at Tha Phae Gate, a historic gate that marks the entrance to Chiang Mai’s old city. Grab a traditional Thai breakfast at Khao Soi Mae Sai, a local eatery serving delicious khao soi (curried noodle soup).
  • 9:00 AM: Visit Wat Phra Singh, a stunning temple complex with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the old city walls and moat, which offer great views of the surrounding area. Stop by Three Kings Monument to learn about Chiang Mai’s history.
  • Lunch: Head to The Riverside Bar & Restaurant, a riverside eatery serving tasty pub grub and offering stunning views.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which takes place every evening. Try your hand at haggling for souvenirs, clothing, and local handicrafts.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Huen Jao Baan, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Northern Thai cuisine.

Day 2: Elephant Sanctuary and Hill Tribes

  • 8:00 AM: Visit the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for rescued elephants. Take part in a guided tour, feed, and bathe these majestic creatures.
  • Lunch: Savor lunch at the park’s restaurant, which serves delicious vegetarian meals.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park and visit the Hmong Hill Tribe Village. Learn about the traditional way of life of this ethnic minority group.
  • Dinner: Try dinner at Krua Chiang Mai, a restaurant serving modern Thai cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 3: Cooking Class and Markets

  • 9:00 AM: Take part in a Cooking Class at Aroy Aroy, where you can learn to prepare traditional Thai dishes like green curry and mango sticky rice.
  • Lunch: Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch!
  • Afternoon: Visit the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center, which showcases local art, culture, and history. Stop by the nearby Somphet Market for some shopping and snacking.
  • Dinner: End your trip with dinner at The Good View, a restaurant serving gourmet Thai cuisine with stunning views of the Mae Ping River.

Accommodation

Consider staying in the old city or along the river to be close to main attractions. Some popular options include:

  • Tamarind Village
  • Rustic River Boutique Hotel
  • The Inside House

Transportation

  • Rent a songthaew (red truck) for a day to explore the city and surrounding areas.
  • Use Grab or taxis for shorter journeys.
  • Walk or bike within the old city.

Things to Know

  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets.
  • Try to learn some basic Thai phrases, like “sawatdee” (hello) and “khop khun krap” (thank you).

Tips

  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Don’t drink tap water; opt for bottled or filtered water instead.
  • Be prepared to haggle at markets and night bazaars.

Other Interests

  • Take a boat ride along the Mae Ping River to see Chiang Mai from a different perspective.
  • Visit the Chiang Mai 3D Art Museum for some fun, quirky art.
  • Explore the Nimmanhaemin Road, known for its trendy cafes, shops, and restaurants.

Enjoy your trip to Chiang Mai!