The Charm of Chiang Mai

Nature

Hike “Monk’s Trail” to Wat Pha Lat Temple: 45 minute hike, suitable for beginners. Enjoy lush nature just outside the city.

Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park: AKA the sticky waterfalls. Large park for exploring, notable for its limestone waterfalls that allow visitors to climb upwards without slipping. Beautiful, trippy, and fun. Good for families.

Motorbike into the mountains: go on a clear day and enjoy the vistas along the way! (Note: if you don’t feel comfortable driving a scooter, there are plenty of group tours available. Ask your hotel!)

Wat Doi Suthep: ornate mountainside temple with stunning views. Walking shoes are a must — be prepared for a lot of stairs. (Tip: Always remember to wear pants/long dresses and cover your shoulders when visiting temples.)

Hmong Village: hillside home to a local tribe. Views, flowering gardens, and artisan products.

Muay Thai

Thailand’s national sport is a perfect night of entertainment. These fights are mainly tourist-targeted, but still worth it! (Tip: arrive early and try bartering down the price by saying you paid less on a different night.)

Loi Kroh Stadium: Intimate arena amidst bars and pool halls

Thapae Stadium: Slightly larger option

Night Markets

Everywhere in Thailand — especially epic in Chiang Mai. Here are some of the most famous.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (Everyday)

Wua Lai Walking Street (Saturday)… it’s never ending

Tha Phae Walking Street (Sunday)… also never ending

Chang Phuak Gate Night Market: Street food-centric and a bit more touristy. If you’re feeling adventurous, look for the famous Cowboy Lady (wearing a cowboy hat) and try her pork knuckle dish.

Nightlife

Boy Blues Bar: Live music located within the Kalaare Night Bazaar. Fun to socialize at the Monday open mic.

BYB Cafe: I was brought here by a local friend. One of the rare after-hours clubs in the city, so: party vibes.

Candy Club: Popular, bi-level spot with different genres on each floor.

ReD: Great hidden club. Small but mighty. Electronic focus.

Day Trips

Elephant Nature Park: Perfect sanctuary experience. Truly an ethical rescue and rehabilitation center run by loving people. So much space. Includes: making food, feeding, mud bathing, lunch, professional photos, and more. Half/full day tours available. (Volunteer opportunities, too!)

WHAT TO EAT - KHAO SOI

Khao Soi — A creamy, spicy chicken noodle soup — is Northern Thailand’s staple dish. I’m obsessed with it. These are just a few of the go-to spots:

ร้าน สุรีรัตน์ โภชนา: My favorite. A local, 24 hour spot.

Khao Soy Maesai: Probably the cheapest Michelin meal you’ll ever have. Just so good.

Khao Soy Nimman: aApopular, nicer spot. Expect a wait.

Khao Soy Prince Maejo Halal: Legendary old spot outside of the city. Their bowl was slightly different. Worth the trip.

MORE

Street Food: just necessary. After your obligatory Pad Thai, please try weird things. (Not weird: but I love the sweet buttered corn.)

Bella Goose Cafe: Wide range of breakfast options. Think: biscuit sandwiches, waffles, smoothie bowls.

SP Chicken: Well-known, Michelin rotisserie chicken spot. Simple and tasty. Go early, they sell out.

WHERE TO DRINK

Beer: If you get tired of the Big Three Lagers (Singha, Chang, Leo) head to these craft-centric spots. (Note: keep in mind that anything craft is going to seem quite expensive for Thailand but hey, so it goes.)

The Beer Chiangmai: Large selection of international cans/bottles

The Grumpy Old Men (My Beer Friend Taproom): Very chill little spot with a small, tasty tap. They brew some of their own as well.

Wishbeer Chiang Mai: Great staff and bottle selection. Food available as well.

Cafes

Somewhere Espresso: Cozy spot with kind employees. Nice for relaxing in the morning. Well-priced. Yummy pastries.

Looper Co.: Espresso bar by day, cocktail bar by night. A little pricy, but a must for an inventive cocktail lover.

Hang & Craft: Get a Dirty Coffee. Local crafts and clothing for sale. Nice environment to get some work done.