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8 Days in Chiang Mai: Unveiling the Secrets of the Ancient City

Jitvipa Kumlangkeng

Jitvipa Kumlangkeng

21 Dec 2023

Embark on an enchanting journey through the cultural heart of Thailand. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant traditions of Chiang Mai as you explore ancient temples, bustling markets, and picturesque villages. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure filled with awe-inspiring sights, mouthwatering cuisine, and warm hospitality.

Day 1Temples of Tranquility
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$8

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$ 1

Wat Chiang Man
13th-century temple with a gold chedi offering ancient Buddha & elephant statues on scenic grounds.
8:00 AM - 8:45 AM
$3
8 - 12 min

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Directions

Wat Inthakhin Sadue Muang
Small Buddhist temple with traditional Lanna architecture, once the site of the sacred city pillar.
9:15 AM - 10:15 AM
$3
16 - 20 min

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Directions

Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham
Historic Buddhist temple complex with woods, a small lake, ancient tunnels & practicing monks.
10:45 AM - 12:15 PM
$3
Day 2Market Marvels and Street Delights
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$0

Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
Vibrant, 3-floor market featuring fresh produce, street food, casual clothing & household goods.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
13 - 20 min

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Directions

Tha Phae Walking Street
Each Sunday afternoon until midnight this street becomes a gallery for local arts & crafts.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free
Day 3Gates, Markets, and Cultural Treasures
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$0

Tha Phae Gate
Known as a site for many community events, this preserved city gate dates back to ancient times.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Free
10 - 15 min

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Directions

Chiang Mai Gate Market
Bustling open-air market with a wide range of food stalls serving street eats, sweets & produce.
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Free
3 - 4 min

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Directions

Wua Lai Walking Street
Outdoor bazaar with vendors selling traditional street snacks, handmade crafts & souvenirs.
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Free
Day 4Night Bazaars and Local Delights
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$0

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$ 1

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Bustling night market featuring street food vendors & local crafts, plus souvenirs.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
13 - 16 min

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Directions

Siri-wattana Market (Tha-nin Market)
Bustling covered marketplace offering fruits, veggies, fish, meats, coffee & prepared foods.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free
Day 5Sacred Temples and Architectural Wonders
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$5

Wat Lok Moli
Buddhist temple dating to at least the 1300s & featuring a prominent chedi (stratified tower).
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Free
11 - 16 min

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Directions

Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan
14th-century Buddhist temple boasting gold & copper Buddhas, murals & ancient manuscripts.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
$3
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Wat Chedi Luang
Temple complex with a partially crumbled 15th-century chedi & a pillar believed to protect the city.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
$3
Day 6Serene Monasteries and Majestic Mountains
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$8

·

$ 2

Wat Suan Dok
Buddhist temple in tranquil surrounds with a golden dome, ornate interior & historic mausoleum.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
$3
18 - 22 min

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Directions

Wat Pha Lat
Small, statue-rich Buddhist temple & monastery hidden in a woodland & reached via a hiking trail.
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Free
20 - 24 min

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Directions

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
In addition to its gold stupa, pagodas & museum, this mountainside temple offers broad city views.
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
$5
Day 7Ethnic Villages and Serene Sanctuaries
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$3

·

$ 1

Hmong Doi Pui Village
Hillside village set in a lush national park, home to a Hmong tribe, who sell traditional crafts.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
41 - 50 min

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Directions

Wat Jed Yot, Phra Aram Luang
Those born in the year of the snake journey to this unique, historical Buddhist temple with artwork.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
$3
Day 8Night Safari Adventure
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$19

Chiang Mai Night Safari
Large zoo with many animal species, day & evening tram safari rides, kids' activities & shows.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$19

Budget breakdown: $46 In total

Activities & Food:$42
Transport:$5