Chiang Mai 6-Day Travel Itinerary

🗺️ Destination Overview Chiang Mai, known as the "Rose of the North," is the cultural hub of northern Thailand. This city blends rich historical charm with modern vibrancy, featuring magnificent temples, bustling night markets, enchanting mountain landscapes, and mouthwatering northern Thai cuisine. With its pleasant climate, Chiang Mai is an ideal destination for travel and relaxation. 📍 Itinerary 👉 Day 1: Exploring Chiang Mai 🧭 Route - Arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport - Check into your hotel - Explore Chiang Mai Old City, visit Thapae Gate and Wat Chedi Luang - Stroll through Chiang Mai Night Bazaar in the evening ✈️ Transportation - Fly from your home country to Chiang Mai International Airport. For city transport, opt for red songthaews or Grab. 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. Thapae Gate: A symbol of Chiang Mai Old City, perfect for photos and feeding pigeons. 2. Wat Chedi Luang: A temple with a spectacular pagoda and a strong religious atmosphere. 3. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: A paradise for local handicrafts, clothing, and street food. 🥘 Food - Night market snacks: Mango sticky rice, Thai-style omelets, coconut ice cream - Khao Soi: Northern Thai coconut curry noodles, recommended at Khao Soi Khun Yai 🏠 Accommodation - Stay in a guesthouse within Chiang Mai Old City, close to the night market for convenience, such as Baan Saen Fang Boutique Hotel. --- 👉 Day 2: Cultural Exploration 🧭 Route - Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep - Explore Bhubing Palace - Take a Thai cooking class in the afternoon - Join the Sunday Night Market in the evening ✈️ Transportation - Rent a car or motorbike to reach Doi Suthep and Bhubing Palace. Drive carefully on winding roads. 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: A landmark of Chiang Mai offering panoramic city views. 2. Bhubing Palace: Admire royal gardens and enjoy the cool climate. 3. Sunday Night Market: Experience local culture, shop for souvenirs, and savor authentic food. 🥘 Food - Huen Phen: Authentic northern Thai dishes like spicy pork salad and crispy pork skin. - Night market snacks: Fried bananas, Thai-style skewers 🏠 Accommodation - Continue staying in Chiang Mai Old City for easy access to the next day's activities. --- 👉 Day 3: Nature and Adventure 🧭 Route - Join an elephant sanctuary program - Experience bamboo rafting or jungle ziplining in the afternoon - Enjoy free time after dinner ✈️ Transportation - Book a day tour package at the sanctuary, which usually includes hotel pickup. 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. Elephant Sanctuary: Choose ethical sanctuaries like Elephant Nature Park to feed and bathe elephants. 2. Bamboo Rafting: Relax on serene rivers. 3. Jungle Ziplining: Flight of the Gibbon offers thrilling outdoor adventures. 🥘 Food - The Riverside Bar & Restaurant: A romantic riverside spot serving Thai and international cuisine. 🏠 Accommodation - Stay at a resort in Chiang Mai outskirts, such as Veranda High Resort Chiang Mai. --- 👉 Day 4: Arts and Traditions 🧭 Route - Visit Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple) in the morning - Explore Chiang Mai Art and Cultural Center in the afternoon - Attend Chiang Mai Night Safari in the evening ✈️ Transportation - Use a rented car or songthaew for short distances between attractions. 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. Wat Sri Suphan: A temple crafted entirely of silver with intricate carvings. 2. Chiang Mai Art and Cultural Center: Learn about Chiang Mai's history and culture. 3. Chiang Mai Night Safari: A unique nighttime wildlife experience. 🥘 Food - Dash! Restaurant and Bar: A relaxed venue blending Thai and Western flavors. 🏠 Accommodation - Stay at T Heritage Hotel in Chiang Mai Old City for modern amenities and convenience. --- 👉 Day 5: Exploring Chiang Mai’s Surroundings 🧭 Route - Visit Doi Inthanon National Park - Explore King and Queen Pagodas and nature trails - Return to Chiang Mai city ✈️ Transportation - Rent a car for the trip; Doi Inthanon is about a 2-hour drive from Chiang Mai. 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. Doi Inthanon National Park: Thailand’s highest peak with stunning natural scenery and waterfalls. 2. King and Queen Pagodas: Admire majestic pagodas and surrounding gardens. 🥘 Food - Simple mountain meals: Freshly made fried chicken and clear soup. - Dinner back in Chiang Mai at The Good View restaurant, offering scenic riverside views. 🏠 Accommodation - Continue staying at T Heritage Hotel. --- 👉 Day 6: Relaxing End to Your Journey 🧭 Route - Join a morning yoga class - Shop and relax at Nimmanhaemin Road - Head to the airport in the afternoon ✈️ Transportation - Use songthaews for short trips; the airport is about 20 minutes from the hotel. 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. Nimmanhaemin Road: A trendy area with stylish shops, cafes, and independent brands, perfect for shopping and unwinding. 🥘 Food - Ristr8to Coffee: A world-class coffee shop famous for latte art. - Tong Tem Toh: A must-visit northern Thai restaurant, known for fried pork and spicy dips. 🏠 Accommodation - Stay at T Heritage Hotel for convenient facilities and services on your last day. 💡 Tips 1. Dress Code: Wear modest clothing when visiting temples; avoid sleeveless tops and short skirts. 2. Transportation: Use songthaews for city travel; rent a car or motorbike for longer distances. 3. Currency Exchange: Many spots in Chiang Mai city offer favorable exchange rates. 4. Sun and Mosquito Protection: Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent for outdoor activities. Have a wonderful trip!