Chiang Mai, Thailand as your destination. Chiang Mai is a perfect fit for your preferences, as it offers a wide range of outdoor adventures and natural beauty, while still being budget-friendly and perfect for a long weekend trip.
Fun fact: Chiang Mai is home to over 300 temples, making it the perfect destination for history and culture lovers.
Must try food: You must try Khao Soi, a Northern Thai noodle soup that is made with a creamy coconut curry broth, chicken, and crispy noodles.
Must try beverage: Thailand is known for its delicious and refreshing iced tea, which is made with a variety of herbs and spices, including lemongrass and ginger.
Best known for: Chiang Mai is best known for its stunning natural beauty, including its lush jungles, beautiful waterfalls, and serene rice paddies.
Good to know:
– Timezone: Indochina Time (ICT)
– Average temperature for March: 27°C (81°F)
– Average precipitation for March: 30mm (1.2 inches)
– Local currency: Thai Baht (THB)
Your example itinerary
Day 1:
– Morning: Arrive in Chiang Mai and check into your hotel. Head to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most famous landmarks in Chiang Mai. Take a songthaew (red truck taxi) up the mountain to the temple and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
– Lunch: Try Khao Soi, a popular Northern Thai dish, at Khao Soi Nimman.
– Afternoon: Visit the Chiang Mai Night Safari and see the animals in their natural habitats. Don’t miss the Night Predator exhibit!
– Dinner: Head to Riverside Bar & Restaurant for some delicious Thai food and a beautiful view of the Ping River.
Day 2:
– Morning: Wake up early and take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside. Enjoy the stunning views of the sunrise and the mountains.
– Breakfast: Head to Rustic & Blue for some delicious breakfast options.
– Afternoon: Visit the Elephant Nature Park and spend the day with rescued elephants. Learn about their stories and help feed them.
– Dinner: Try some Northern Thai food at Huen Muan Jai Restaurant.
Day 3:
– Morning: Visit the Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest mountain in Thailand. Explore the beautiful waterfalls and gardens.
– Lunch: Try some traditional Thai dishes at Aroon Rai Restaurant.
– Afternoon: Visit the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre and learn about the history and culture of Chiang Mai.
– Dinner: Head to The Riverside Bar & Restaurant for some delicious Thai food and a beautiful view of the Ping River.
Day 4:
– Morning: Explore the Old City of Chiang Mai and visit the temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh.
– Lunch: Try some local street food at Chang Phueak Market.
– Afternoon: Visit the Baan Kang Wat Artist Village and see the local artists at work.
– Dinner: Head to the Nimman area and try some fusion cuisine at Rustic & Blue.
Tips and Recommendations:
– Rent a motorbike to get around Chiang Mai. It’s affordable and convenient.
– Make sure to dress appropriately when visiting temples, as they have strict dress codes.
– Visit the Sunday Night Market in the Old City for some local shopping and street food.
– Don’t forget to try some Khao Niao Mamuang (sticky rice with mango) for dessert!
