9 Days in Chiang Mai: Unveiling Ancient Wonders

Franka de Jong

21 Dec 2023

Embark on a thrilling adventure through the cultural heart of Thailand as you explore ancient temples, vibrant markets, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of Chiang Mai while indulging in delicious local cuisine. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Trip to Chiang Mai

Get Your Guide

Viator

Day 1Temples and Monuments Galore

$10

KAYAN Hostel : ขยัน โฮสเทล

Depart from your stay 🏨

4 - 5 min

Directions

13th-century temple with a gold chedi offering ancient Buddha & elephant statues on scenic grounds.

8:00 AM - 8:45 AM

•

11 - 16 min

Directions

Known as a site for many community events, this preserved city gate dates back to ancient times.

9:15 AM - 9:45 AM

•

Free

9 - 14 min

Directions

Temple complex with a partially crumbled 15th-century chedi & a pillar believed to protect the city.

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM

•

8 - 11 min

Directions

Sculpture of Kings Mengrai, Ramkamhaeng and Ngam Muang, purported founding fathers of Chiang Mai.

11:45 AM - 12:15 PM

•

Free

Day 2Dive into the Local Market Scene

$ 4

KAYAN Hostel : ขยัน โฮสเทล

Depart from your stay 🏨

6 - 8 min

Directions

Bustling covered marketplace offering fruits, veggies, fish, meats, coffee & prepared foods.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

9 - 11 min

Directions

14th-century Buddhist temple boasting gold & copper Buddhas, murals & ancient manuscripts.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Day 3Night Bazaar Delights and Serene Temples

$ 4

KAYAN Hostel : ขยัน โฮสเทล

Depart from your stay 🏨

9 - 11 min

Directions

Bustling night market featuring street food vendors & local crafts, plus souvenirs.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

12 - 15 min

Directions

Buddhist temple dating to at least the 1300s & featuring a prominent chedi (stratified tower).

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

Day 4Majestic Temples on Mountain Peaks

$10

$ 6

KAYAN Hostel : ขยัน โฮสเทล

Depart from your stay 🏨

44 - 53 min

Directions

In addition to its gold stupa, pagodas & museum, this mountainside temple offers broad city views.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$10

13 - 16 min

Directions

Small, statue-rich Buddhist temple & monastery hidden in a woodland & reached via a hiking trail.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Free

Day 5A Day of Wildlife Encounters

$25

$ 4

KAYAN Hostel : ขยัน โฮสเทล

Depart from your stay 🏨

13 - 16 min

Directions

Sizable zoo & aquarium with a snow dome, panda exhibit & kids’ water park, plus animal feedings.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$25

Day 6Immerse in Hill Tribe Culture

$ 6

KAYAN Hostel : ขยัน โฮสเทล

Depart from your stay 🏨

51 - 62 min

Directions

Hillside village set in a lush national park, home to a Hmong tribe, who sell traditional crafts.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

44 - 53 min

Directions

Historic Buddhist temple complex with woods, a small lake, ancient tunnels & practicing monks.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Day 7Discover Hidden Gems of Chiang Mai

$ 6

KAYAN Hostel : ขยัน โฮสเทล

Depart from your stay 🏨

11 - 14 min

Directions

Those born in the year of the snake journey to this unique, historical Buddhist temple with artwork.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

17 - 21 min

Directions

Sizable park with a contemporary playground, picnic areas, shade trees & water features.

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

•

Free

Day 8Night Safari Adventure

$38

$ 4

KAYAN Hostel : ขยัน โฮสเทล

Depart from your stay 🏨

28 - 34 min

Directions

Large zoo with many animal species, day & evening tram safari rides, kids' activities & shows.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$38

Day 9Seek Blessings at Doi Kham Temple

$ 4

KAYAN Hostel : ขยัน โฮสเทล

Depart from your stay 🏨

30 - 36 min

Directions

Temple atop a forested mountain featuring ornate gold carvings & a 17-m. sitting Buddha statue.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Budget breakdown: $136 In total

Activities & Food:$103

Transport:$34