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4-Day Best of Chiang Mai Tour

This itinerary covers the must-see attractions in Chiang Mai - the iconic mountain, Doi Suthep, the amazing Doi Inthanon National Park, and an elephant experience in the jungle. We highly recommend it for couples and families with children.

Our private tour will offer you the opportunity to take a spiritual tour in the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple and appreciate the beauty of Doi Suthep without any crowds in the late afternoon, have a memorable elephant caring experience in our selected sanctuary, which ranks as the top one in TripAdvisor, take a gentle walk through the famous Ang Ka Nature Trail, and visit a local hill tribe village in Doi Inthanon National Park.

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• Discover the iconic Doi Suthep after most people have left in the late afternoon.
• Have a memorable elephant caring experience in our selected sanctuary.
• Take a gentle walk along Ang Ka Nature Trail and visit a hill tribe village in Doi Inthanon National Park.
• Take in the scenery at Wachiratharn Waterfall and appreciate the spectacular King and Queen Pagodas.

Itinerary in Detail

Upon your arrival, your private tour guide and driver will greet you at the airport and then transfer you to your hotel. In the late afternoon, you will head to the iconic mountain, Doi Suthep.

Situated only a few kilometers northwest of Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep is in one of the most famous national parks in Northern Thailand. The main attractions in the park include Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, scenic waterfalls, amazing bird's-eye views, caves, and local wildlife. Despite the stunning natural beauty of Doi Suthep, the main reason many visitors go to the national park is to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Thailand.

Many tourists visit Doi Suthep during the day and the park can get quite crowded. However, our tour takes place in the late afternoon after most people have left so that you can have a meaningful and personal experience . At dusk, you can listen to the evening chanting of the monks as you gaze at the glittering lights of Chiang Mai below you. You can also meditate there if you wish.

Situated in a pristine and picturesque valley in Chiang Mai, about 1? hours outside of the city, Elephant Rescue Park is a paradise for rescued elephants. It provides a safe, loving, and secure environment for all the elephants that live there.

There, you can spend half a day caring for the elephants. At Elephant Rescue Park, you'll interact with the elephants, feed them, walk with them, hug them, and bathe them.

Rising 2,565 meters above sea level, Doi Inthanon National Park is often called "the roof of Thailand". It is one of the most popular national parks in Thailand and is especially famous for its large number of waterfalls, hiking trails, remote villages, and picturesque mountain farms.

This park is also a great place to go bird-watching or to take in the beautiful scenery while watching a sunrise or sunset. Because it is located at a higher elevation, the weather at Doi Inthanon National Park is cool year-round, making it the perfect place to spend some time outdoors.

During this day tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the mountain's summit where you can see green-tailed sunbirds, take a gentle walk along Ang Ka Nature Trail, visit a hill tribe village and a small Hmong market, take in the scenery at Wachiratharn Waterfall, and appreciate the spectacular King and Queen Pagodas.

Your Chiang Mai journey has come to an end. Your private tour guide and driver will transfer you to the airport for your departure.

Hand-picked Hotels

We have selected hotels with different styles and for different budgets. Let us know your preferences and we will help you find the right one.

Our Service Includes:

• Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
• All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
• Hotel accommodation mentioned in the itinerary
• Breakfasts at hotels and lunches for every guided day
• Governmental taxes

Tour code: ah-tl-3

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Welcome to Absolute ChiangMai

Private tours and friendly service.

AbsoluteChiangMai is operated by a team of licensed guides who are experienced, professional, and will respond to your every need. There are fixed itineraries you can choose from, or just send us an e-mail and we can create an itinerary that will suit your desires. Whether you are looking for the popular tours, or something off the beaten path, AbsoluteChiangMai can take you there with your own private experienced and knowledgable tour guide.

THE 10 BEST Chiang Mai Private Tours

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Doi Inthanon Private Tour with Trek & Lunch from Chiang Mai

2. Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Chiang Mai Private Tour

3. Full day car hire with private English speaking driver

4. The 10 Tastings of Chiang Mai With Locals: Private Street Food Tour

5. Chiang Mai Private Tour with Tea Plantation, Karen Village, Doi Suthep

6. Private Tour to visit The Highlights of Chiang rai & White Temple

7. ️ Chiang Mai Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots (Private and All-Inclusive)

8. Private Tour to Doi Inthanon including Twins Pagodas and Hiking

9. Half Day Phra That Doi Kham Temple and Royal Park Rajapruek (Private Tour)

10. Half Day Long Neck hill tribe and Elephant POOPOOPAPER Park (Private Tour)

11. Doi Suthep Temple and Bau Thong Waterfalls Private Tour

12. 1 Day Trekking in Chiang Mai

13. Doi Inthanon National Park Private Tour – Full Day

14. 1 day Private Tour to Unseen Temple in Lampang

15. Half Day Umong Temple and Monk Chanting at Doi Suthep Temple ( Private tour)

16. Half Day Doi Suthep Temple and Palad Temple (Private tour)

17. Half-Day Private Night Tour by Tuk Tuk in Chiang Mai City

18. Half day car hire with private English speaking driver

19. 2 Days 1 Night Eco Trekking to the White Pakayaw Village

20. A Taste of Chiang Mai: Private Tour

21. Half day Long Neck hill tribe and Hmong hill tribe village

22. Sticky Waterfalls Chiang Mai Fun Half Day Private Tour

23. 1 Day Sukhothai Historical Park from Chiang Mai Private Tour

24. Chiang Rai Temples Private Tour from Chiang Mai - All Inclusive

25. Chiang Rai Temples ( White,Blue )And Doi Suthep Private Day Tour

26. Chiang Rai, Golden Triangle and Long Neck Karen

27. A Magical Evening in Chiang Mai: Private City Tour

28. Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat Sunrise Private Tour – Half Day

29. Private tour Chiang Dao cave ,Temples,Sticky waterfall

30. Private Tour: Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls Tour

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Global Gallivanting

My perfect 3 – 5 day chiang mai itinerary (2024).

If you are looking for a Chiang Mai itinerary that combines the must-see tourist attractions with some hidden gems at a leisurely pace then I hope you’ll find this blog post useful. I’ve put together a comprehensive guide covering how to spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Chiang Mai, Thailand , after living here for several months.

Chiang Mai is one of my favorite places in Thailand and one of the most popular places to visit in all of Southeast Asia. If you’re interested in learning more about Thai history, culture, and spirituality you must include this city on your Thailand itinerary.

As Thailand’s 2nd city, Chiang Mai offers a much more relaxed experience than the Thai capital, Bangkok . It’s is home to a beautiful, historic Old City filled with ancient temples, and surrounded by the mountains and jungles of northern Thailand.

Tips for Planning Your Chiang Mai Itinerary

From the beautiful temples and the buzzing night markets, to the elephant sanctuaries and waterfalls just outside the city, there’s so much to see and do in Chiang Mai. So you’ll need to plan your itinerary for Chiang Mai carefully to make sure you don’t miss anything whilst still allowing time to just wander and explore the old city.

This northern gem also makes a great base for day trips exploring the surrounding nature and the rest of northern Thailand – so however long you spend in Chiang Mai you won’t get bored.

My top tip is to avoid trying to pack too much in to just a few days, or you’ll end up having to rush around in the mid day heat and having a stressful trip.

Also leave yourself time to chill in a cafe, relax with a traditional Thai massage, browse the markets, discover some offbeat temples, and just soak up the magical vibes.

Before you plan your itinerary for Chiang Mai it’s wise to do a bit of research into the best time to visit, how to get there and get around and where to stay, so I’ll cover all this too in this blog post.

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How Long To Spend in Chiang Mai

If you just want to explore the most popular tourist attractions in Chiang Mai then you should spend at least 3 days in Chiang Mai, but if you have time I would recommend spending 4 – 5 days to see more and explore beyond the city.

Spending 5 days in Chiang Mai will give you enough time to explore the old city and night markets at a leisurely pace and to also take some day trips outside the city to visit the elephant sanctuaries, national parks and unique temples of Northern Thailand.

In this 3 – 5 day Chiang Mai itinerary, I’ll give you my recommendations for the famous attractions that you should not miss when visiting Chiang Mai, as well as some suggestions for if you have more time and want to get off the beaten track.

First off, I’ll go through some essential travel tips for visiting Chiang Mai like when to visit, how to get to Chiang Mai and get around, and where to stay. Then I’ll include a detailed itinerary for 3, 4 and 5 days. If you already know the basics then click here to skip to the day by day itinerary .

The Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai

When planning your itinerary consider the weather for the best experience. The best time to visit Chiang Mai is between November and February when the weather is cool, dry and comfortable.

During this period the days are sunny and dry, the temperature is mild and the humidity is low, making it the perfect time to get out and explore the city and its surroundings. It’s also the most popular time so make sure you book your transportation, accommodation, and activities in advance.

The rainy season, from June till October, is not a bad time to visit. The cloud cover and rain showers bring relief from the hot, humid summer weather, but the rain shouldn’t ruin your plans too much.

I don’t recommend visiting Chiang Mai between March and May as this is the hottest time and the burning season decreases the air quality in the city.

It’s also a good idea to plan your itinerary to include a weekend so you can experience the Sunday Walking Street Market which takes over most of the old town as is one of the best night markets in Thailand.

This Chiang Mai itinerary is going to start on a Sunday so you’ll be able to enjoy the famous Sunday market after a day exploring the temples of the old city.

How To Get To Chiang Mai

Getting to Chiang Mai is relatively easy. You can fly directly into Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) which is located just a short drive from the city center.

There are plenty of taxis and songthaew (shared red trucks) offering rides from Chiang Mai Airport to the city center for a fixed fee. You can also book a taxi using the Grab App.

There are many domestic and international flights operating to and from this airport from Bangkok, other places in Thailand, and some other Asian cities.

If you are coming from outside Asia then you’ll probably need to fly into Bangkok first and connect to a short 1 hour domestic flight. I recommend experiencing Bangkok for a few days first though!

Be aware that there are two airports in Bangkok. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) receives mostly long haul international flights, while Don Mueang (DMK) is where you’ll find most of the domestic and regional budget airline flights.

So check which airport your connecting flight is leaving from! There is a shuttle bus between the two airports, but be sure to allow enough time to travel across the often congested capital city, or you can take the BTS skytrain.

Entering Thailand is straightforward as most nationalities receive either a Visa Exemption or Visa on Arrival which is valid for 30 days. You can extend this once by another 30 days for 1,900 Thai Baht at the Immigration Office.

You can also travel to Chiang Mai by train or bus from Bangkok and other major cities in Thailand. The overnight train journey from Bangkok is quite an experience and better for the environment than flying but make sure you book your tickets in advance as it’s a popular route. The easiest place to book tickets is on   12 Go Asia.

Getting Around Chiang Mai

Grab is a ride-hailing app similar to Uber, while songthaews are shared red trucks that run on routes (like a bus) that you can flag down.

The Old City is quite compact and walkable, and many Chiang Mai accommodations offer shuttle services and bike rentals. If you book a tour or day trip they usually include transportation too.

If you are comfortable driving a scooter or motorbike, renting one can be an efficient, affordable and fun way to explore the city and its surroundings.

• Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

This compact area is surrounded by a moat and walls and contains over 300 ancient temples, plenty of cafes, and boutique heritage hotels which are my top choice for an unforgettable stay.

• Luxury –  Rachamankha Hotel
• Mid Range – Tamarind Village or Pingviman Hotel ,
• Budget – Vieng Mantra Hotel  
• Backpacker –   The Common Hostel .

Aside from the Old City, Chiang Mai has a diverse range of neighborhoods, from this buzzing Chiang Mai night bazaar area and trendy, modern Nimman road, popular with young travellers and digital nomads, to tranquil stays on the riverside that are ideal for couples and families.

Check out my full guide to where to stay in Chiang Mai  to find the perfect area for you and for more hotel recommendations.

Booking Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of guided tours and interesting activities to enjoy in Chiang Mai. From trekking through the lush mountains and visiting elephant sanctuaries to exploring the beautiful temples, taking a cooking class, and plenty of day trips to explore nearby cities.

Some activities are very popular and have limited space, so I recommend booking these in advance to avoid disappointment, especially if you are visiting Chiang Mai in the peak season.

The best place to find, read reviews and book day trips and tours in Chiang Mai is on  Viator   and  Get Your Guide . Local travel agents sell tours and day trips but I like to be able to read the reviews first so that I know I’m going to get a good experience.

Public transport connections are good to major cities and it’s easy to book bus and train tickets on  12Go Asia .

If you want to visit specific attractions or get more off the beaten track the easiest way to explore is by taking an organised day trip tour. This allows you to see much more in one day than you could by public transport and having a local guide makes the experience deeper.

The top tours and day trips from Chiang Mai include:

• Sunrise Doi Suthep Temple Tour with a Former Monk
• Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour
• Elephant Sanctuary, Waterfalls and Rafting Tour
• Thai Cooking Class with the Akha Hilltribe .
• Chiang Rai Temples Tour
• Doi Inthanon National Park Day Tour

So now you know all the essential Chiang Mai travel tips you’re ready to start planning your day by day itinerary! If you are planning a 3 day Chiang Mai itinerary just do the first 3 days, if you have more time consider some day trips as well.

My Ideal Chiang Mai Itinerary: How to Spend 3 – 5 Days in Chiang Mai:

• Day 1 – Discover the temples and night markets in the Old City
• Day 2 – Explore Doi Suthep temple and join a Thai cooking class
• Day 3 – Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary
• Day 4 – Take a day trip to Chiang Rai to visit the White Temple and Golden Triangle
• Day 5 – Explore nature in Doi Inthanon National Park

Day 1 – Exploring Chiang Mai Old City: Temples and Markets

The best way to start your Chiang Mai trip is by exploring the walled old city which dates back to 1296. You can see the ancient city walls and moat and explore over 300 temples.

It’s an enchanting place to wander, go temple hopping, and learn about traditional Thai culture. There’s also plenty of cute cafes and some interesting museums if you need to escape the heat. Make sure you wear light, loose clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter the temples.

Morning : Wake up early to witness the morning alms giving to the monks. Take breakfast at your hotel and then wander around the Old City visiting some of the beautiful temples.

The 3 most famous temples in Chiang Mai that you can’t miss include:

• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – the most revered golden temple perched on a hilltop above the city
• Wat Phra Singh –  the most stunning and elaborate temple in the old city
• Wat Chedi Luang – home to a dramatic ruined stupa and a good place to do a monk chat. Also located in the heart of the old city.

If you want to understand more about Buddhism, Thai culture, and the history and meaning behind these stunning temples, its worth taking a guided walking tour of the temples and old city with a knowledgeable local guide.

There are hundreds of temples worth visiting so even if you spend 5 days in Chiang Mai you won’t be able to see them all. Don’t miss the top three but do try and see some of the lesser known temples as well as the famous ones. They are all beautiful and unique so take the time to explore and discover your favorite.

Other temples in the Old Town I recommend visiting include:

• Wat Pan Tao – an atmospheric old teak temple next to Wat Chedi Luang.
• Wat Jet Lin – A lesser known serene temple with a lovely pond and gardens
• Wat Chiang Man – the oldest temple in Chiang Mai that dates back to 1296.
• Wat Rajamontean – large temple with a huge buddha by the moat in the north of the old town
• Wat Lok Molee (Moli) – with intricate mother of pearl details opposite Wat Rajamontean

Afternoon : If you visit these temples in this order you’ll end up at a great spot for an authentic local lunch. Get ready for your first taste of the delicious famous northern Thai dish – Khao Soi, a spicy coconut curry noodle soup.

A great local restaurant to taste authentic Khao Soi is ‘ Khao Soi Khun Yai ‘ also known as Grand Ma’s Khao Soi. It’s next to Wat Rajamontean so it’s the perfect place to refuel when temple hopping. It’s only open until 2pm though and get busy so don’t leave it too late.

If you need to recharge while temple hopping there are many cute cafes in the Old City where you can enjoy the AC and try an iced Thai tea or coffee. My favorites include like Stories , near Tha Pha Gate, and My Secret Cafe in Town , near Wat Phra Singh.

After lunch, if you want to learn more there are some interesting, air conditioned, museums near the Three Kings Monument in the heart of the Old City that are worth checking out including:

• The Chiang Mai Historical Centre ,
• Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre,
• The Lanna Folklife Museum

Or, if you’d like to explore some more temples there are some outside the old city that are a bit off the beaten track but well worth visiting. Hire a taxi or tuk tuk and check out:

• Wat Suan Dok – A beautiful sprawling Royal temple with hundreds of white chedis
• Wat Umong – an old temple with unique underground tunnels and shrines
• Wat Sri Suphan – Known as the silver temple for it’s ornate metalwork. Women aren’t allowed to enter but it’s still interesting to see from the outside and is illuminated at night.
• Wat Jet Yot – A historic and unique temple with seven spires based in on the temple in Bodh Gaya, India where the Buddha attained Enlightenment.

Stroll around the old town and browse the many stalls selling clothing, souvenirs, art and handicrafts. For dinner, make sure to pop into the temple courtyards where you’ll find street food courts offering a huge array of delicious and affordable street food like pad thai, spring rolls, mango sticky rice, and fruit shakes.

If it’s not a Sunday, don’t despair, you can visit the Chiang Mai night bazaar , near the riverside, which is open every night with food, stalls and live music and even Muay Thai matches to get your Chiang Mai night market fix!

If you’re not sure about trying the street food I always find taking a food tour is a good way to learn about the cuisine and culture. This Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour includes over 15 tastings and takes you to spots popular with locals.

If you feel like parting afterwards check out Zoe in Yellow or North Gate Jazz Co-op in the Old Town. Or head to the bars and clubs in Nimmanhiem that are popular with Thai students and digital nomads.

Day 2 – See Sunrise at Doi Suthep and take a Thai Cooking Class

Morning : They say that it you haven’t seen Doi Suthep then you haven’t been to Chiang Mai so this morning head up the mountain just outside the city to check out one of Thailand’s most stunning, revered temples – Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

This incredible golden temple is perched up on a mountain overlooking the town and offers amazing views. Climb up the 306 steps or take the funicular and marvel at the beautiful Doi Suthep temple.

It’s quite easy to take a taxi or red truck (songthaew) to get there but I recommend considering this sunrise Doi Suthep temple tour with a former monk which makes it an extra special experience. As well as seeing the temple without the crowds and witnessing the sunrise over the city you will experience the monks chanting and the alms-giving ceremony.

You also get an amazing insight into Buddhism and Thai culture from the lovely guide who is a former monk. After Doi Suthep, the tour also includes a Thai breakfast and then visits Wat Pha Lat, a magical temple hidden the jungle that is one of my favorite temples in Chiang Mai, and Wat Umong. More details here.

If you’re up for an adventure, a great way to experience Doi Suthep is to hike there up The Monks Trail , a steep, short climb up through the jungle that allows you to visit Wat Pha Lat on the way.

Another option, if you’d like to combine temples with nature, is to take this Doi Suthep and Sticky Waterfalls Tour . After visiting Doi Suthep, and having the chance to receive a blessing from a Buddhist monk, you can experience climbing up the unique sticky waterfalls (also known as Bua Tong waterfalls) and cool off in the mineral pools.

Afternoon : If you’d like a fun and tasty way to learn more about Thai culture through it’s cuisine and to learn how to cook delicious thai food at home then book yourself onto a  Thai cooking class .

The experience starts with shopping in the local market for fresh produce and then you’ll learn how to cook 11 delicious Thai dishes like pad thai, spring rolls, green curry, red curry, and yellow curry, (and eat them!) You’ll also get an insight into hill tribe life in northern Thailand from your guide from the Akha tribe.

If cooking’s not your thing there are plenty of other activities to try in Chiang Mai from Muay Thai boxing lessons to Buddhist meditation, monk chats, and yoga classes.

Evening : You probably won’t want a huge dinner after eating all your creation at the cooking class so you could snack on some street food.

Or, if you’re feeling tired from all the exploring, relax with a Thai massage at one of the many spas and massage parlours.

For a luxury experience try Fah Lanna Spa or Makkha Spa.   If you’re on a budget, consider supporting the Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institution Vocational Training Centre for an affordable massage and a god cause..

Day 3: Visit an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

Daytime : One of the most popular bucket list activities in Chiang Mai is having an elephant encounter. There are many elephant camps just outside the city but it’s important to choose an ethical elephant sanctuary that prioritizes the well-being and conservation of these amazing animals and does not allow elephant riding.

The most reputable and ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai are the Elephant Nature Park  and the  Rescue Elephant Center   where you can have a magical encounter with these gentle giants in their natural environment without harming them.

At Elephant Nature Park you can choose between half day and full day packages but make sure to book in advance as this well known sanctuary has limited capacity and is often fully booked.

Another option is this elephant sanctuary, waterfalls and rafting tour package . It’s a popular way to combine seeing elephants with exploring more of Chiang Mai’s natural beauty spots.

Evening : Treat yourself to a meal at one of the best restaurants in Chiang Mai.  Baan Landai Fine Thai Cuisine , is a Michelin starred Thai restaurant in a cute garden within the old town. It’s open for lunch and dinner but you should make a reservation as it’s deservedly popular.

Alternatively, if you fancy a taste from home there are many modern restaurants and bars in the Nimmanahaeminda area serving food from all over the world.

I’d recommend getting an early night because tomorrow is going to be a long, but amazing, day out!

Day 4 – Chiang Rai, White Temple and Golden Triangle Day Trip

Now that you’ve seen the highlights of Chiang Mai city if you have more time why not explore some more of Northern Thailand. There’s also some great day trips from Chiang Mai that make exploring the nearby places easy and stress free.

So on day 4 of your Chiang Mai itinerary I’d recommend taking a day trip to Chiang Rai to see some of the most unique temples in the world and the Golden Triangle.

This top rated small group Chiang Rai Temples Tour takes you to the three best temples and gives you plenty of time to fully explore each and is the easiest way to see all the highlights in one day. It takes about 3 hours to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai where you’ll visit :

• The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) – one of the most amazing temples and sights I’ve ever seen (and I’ve seen lots  of temples!). This striking contemporary structure that’s unlike any other temple in Thailand. It’s more like an art exhibit than a temple, with intricate and interesting designs that you might not expect to see in a Thai temple.
• The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) – a unique and beautiful temple that showcases the region’s artistic heritage
• The Black House Museum (Baan Dum) – a unique collection of art and architecture that reflects the region’s diverse cultural heritage

Further north from Chiang Rai is the Golden Triangle , an area traditionally known for growing opium where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet at the Mekong River. Nowadays you can visit the Hall of Opium museum and take a boat trip on the river where you can see three countries at once!

This White Temple and Golden Triangle Tour makes it possible to see it all in just one day. As well as visiting the White Temple and The Golden Triangle, you also visit hot springs, the opium museum and it includes lunch and a boat ride on the river where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar (Burma) meet. It’s a bit of a long day as you cover all of ground but I think it’s worth it and without joining a tour it would be very difficult to see it all in one day.

You’ll probably be pretty tired after this epic day of exploring northern Thailand so I wouldn’t make any fancy dinner reservations. Just have dinner at your hotel and get some rest.

Day 5 – Doi Inthanon National Park Day Trip

Daytime : If you are a nature lover then on your last day in Chiang Mai don’t miss the chance to visit Thailand’s highest peak and explore Doi Inthanon National Park.

It’s a popular day trip from Chiang Mai with plenty to do. You can hike the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, enjoy the picturesque waterfalls and stunning views, see the famous Twin (King and Queen) Pagodas and enjoy the cooler temperatures at the top. (bring a jacket)

Doi Inthanon is an hour and a half drive from Chiang Mai so it makes an easy escape into nature and perfect for your last day. This Doi Inthanon National Park Day Tour includes an easy hike and visits the twin Royal pagodas, waterfalls, viewpoints, a Karen tribal village and a Hmong market. As it includes transport and lunch it’s by far the easiest way to see the highlights in one day.

Evening : For your last night in Chiang Mai you might want to visit the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for some last minute souvenir shopping and to soak up the lively night market vibe and savour some more street food.

If you’d prefer a romantic meal head to one of the many restaurants and bars along the Ping River. For something special head to The Service At 1921 House , part of the Anantara Resort. Situated in a historic colonial building on the riverside dinning at this steak house and gourmet restaurant is sure to be a memorable experience for your last night in Chiang Mai.

Also Consider: Pai and Motorbike Adventures

While my 5 day Chiang Mai itinerary covers all the highlights, there’s still plenty more to explore in Northern Thailand. The city makes a great base from which to explore the surrounding mountains with many trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, white water rafting and kayaking trips on offer.

I also recommend just getting out and exploring the nature, either by renting a scooter or joining an organised day trip. If you prefer nature and adventure over temples then you might want to consider exploring Pai and more of the countryside that offers some epic motorbike adventures.

Pai is a small, laid-back town nestled on the banks of the river in one of the most beautiful valleys in Thailand. There’s plenty of natural beauty to explore from forests and mountains, rivers, waterfalls and hot springs. Don’t miss experiencing the sunset at Pai Canyon.

Pai’s chill vibes and stunning nature have made it a popular hangout with relaxed, hippie vibes and plenty of cosy and colourful vegan and vegetarian cafes, galleries, boutiques and yoga classes .  There’s also bars with live music, a night market and walking street with all the Thai street food delights. Tipsy tubing is also a popular activity here for backpackers.

You can do a day trip to Pai from Chiang Mai , but it takes about 3 hours to get there on windy mountain roads. I feel it’s more of a place to relax, soak up the hippie vibes, rent a bike and explore the nature at a leisurely pace so I’d recommend spending at least 2 days in Pai to properly explore the gorgeous scenery of Thailand’s most beautiful valley.

Pai is the first stop on the Mae Hong Son Loop , a scenic 600 kilometer journey through Northern Thailand’s mountains, valleys, and villages, best done on motorbike. The breathtaking route contains over 1,800 curves, amazing views and is one epic adventure.

You should allow 4 – 7 days to drive the loop, depending on how long you want to stop in the cute mountain towns like Pai  and  Mae Hong Song City  along the way. There are many places offering motorbike rental in in Chiang Mai but, for safety reasons, it’s best if you are already confident riding a motorcycle before tackling this epic ride.

If you don’t have time, an alternative nearer to Chiang Mai the Mae Sa-Samoeng Loop  makes a nice mini adventure that can be done in a day with stops for hikes, waterfalls, viewpoints and lunch.

Another option is Chiang Dao , a small town located about 1.5 hours north of Chiang Mai home to massive caves and beautiful mountain scenery with plenty of adventure activities to try. This Chiang Dao Day Tour includes kayaking, caving, jungle trekking, lunch and transport.

Read my post about all the  best attractions, activities and things to do in Chiang Mai for more inspiration.

Ready to Plan Your Itinerary for Chiang Mai?

As you can see, there is no shortage of things to do in and around this beautiful northern Thai city so to make the most of your time it’s best to plan your itinerary for Chiang Mai carefully to make sure you don’t miss out on anything.

I recommend spending a minimum of 3 days in Chiang Mai so you can explore the highlights of the old city and the night markets, see the beautiful temples, learn how to cook Thai cuisine, have an amazing elephant encounter, and relax with a massage.

The city is such a great base to explore more of northern Thailand if you have time I highly recommend you spend 4 or 5 days in Chiang Mai. Then you can also explore some hidden gems and do some day trips to see Chiang Rai’s stunning unique temples, explore Thailand’s highest peak at Doi Inthanon, or go on a motorbike adventure to explore the nature.

I hope my Chiang Mai itinerary has given you plenty of inspiration and helped you plan your trip and that you love Chiang Mai as much as I do.

If you are planning a longer trip around the whole country check out my 2 week Thailand itinerary to know how to see the best of north and south. If you need more tips check out my Thailand travel guide and my other Chiang Mai blogs:

• Things to do in Chiang Mai
• Best Heritage and Boutique Hotels in Chiang Mai

My Guide To The Best Things to Do in Bangkok (2024)

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Chiang Mai Reviews & Ratings

Above our expectation.

It was a marvellous trip for us in Indochina. Everything was above our expectations except for the vegetarian food for my wife. The itinerary was perfectly organised...

Good choice to South East Asia

I will HIGHLY recommend this tour to my family, friends and work colleagues who are thinking about travelling to Vietnam and South East Asia – and will personally re...

Fanstastic itinerary

Wow!  I couldn’t have asked for a better trip!  Thank you so much. The cities were fantastic as were the rural and water based adventures. The tours and gu...

Warmest greetings from Australia

We made it back to Australia and our home town safe and sound. It is a three hour drive to my home town from Brisbane and I didn’t think it was safe for me to make ...

Best travel consultant ever

All of the tour guides were brilliant – Tony in Hanoi and Sody in Cambodia were my personal faves. All the guides spoke very good English, were very friendly, court...

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10-Day Tour to Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, and Phuket

The most common question about traveling in Thailand is: "It's my first time in Thailand — where should I travel to?" This itinerary will give you inspiration.

It includes four major destinations: the vigorous Bangkok, the historical Kanchanaburi, the cultural Chiang Mai, and the beautiful Phuket Island.

Discover Thai culture and history from the south (Bangkok) to the north (Chiang Mai), Bangkok's palaces and temples, the River Kwai, and the historical railway in Kanchanaburi. Have intimate contact with elephants in Chiang Mai. Enjoy a local family cooking experience and taste delicious local food. End your trip on a magical beach. You will have the opportunity to discover the charm of Thai culture and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Thailand.

from US$1,932 P/P

First-Timers

Nov. to Apr.

Tour Highlights

Itinerary details.

Below is the detailed tour itinerary, which is designed to provide inspiration for your Thailand tour. We will follow your requests and assist you to customize your dream journey to Thailand.

After arriving at the airport, your guide will be waiting for you, holding a sign with your name on it, and will then transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day and adjust to the jet lag or wander around your hotel.

Palaces, Temples, and Ancient Canals

You will start your trip after breakfast and will visit some landmark sites in Bangkok, which include Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Temple of Dawn. Experience Bangkok's local transportation – the long-tail boat and Thai tuk tuk – to feel what it's like to be a local.

Have lunch at a local Thai restaurant.

Would you like to taste some local Thai food? Chinatown in Bangkok is a nice choice for food lovers. Tasting delicious local food is an important part of traveling and it will make you fonder of the city. Have a delicious food hunting tour with your guide.

Visit the River Kwai and take a train to discover this historical site.

The River Kwai was built by prisoners of war during World War II and was supervised by the Japanese. You will take an hour's train ride along the Death Railway on the River Kwai. Your guide will tell you about its history in detail so you can learn about the misfortune brought by the war and cherish the peaceful world we have now.

Have lunch at a local Thai restaurant and return to Bangkok.

You will meet your guide and driver at your hotel and be transferred to the airport to catch your flight to Chiang Mai, which is the second city on this tour.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by private car. You are free to spend the rest of your day as you wish — a Chiang Mai foot massage will be a nice option for you.

About 1½ hours' drive from Chiang Mai, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is surrounded by a spectacular forest. Having close contact with elephants is a must for Thai trips. We prefer to be friendly with them so you will be an elephant keeper for the day. First, you will learn about each cute elephant and their daily lives, then you can feed, bathe, and brush them.

Magical Temples of Chiang Mai

You will meet your guide and driver in the lobby of your hotel. You will be driven for about 20 minutes from Chiang Mai to the famous Doi Suthep where you will have the chance to see the panoramic view of Chiang Mai.

The most popular site there is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which was built in 1382 and is one of the holiest Buddhist temples in Thailand. Buddhism is the most important religion in Thailand so many locals go there for pilgrimages.

Afterward, go back to downtown Chiang Mai to visit Wat Chedi Luang, which is home to the Emerald Buddha. It attracts many Thais who visit there every year.

Learn How to Make Thai Food from a Local Family

Learning how to make local food is more interesting than simply tasting food. Now you will have the chance to make some local dishes with a local family. These dishes are common for Thai families and you can also cook them for your family when you return home. You will collect the vegetables from the host's garden and then the host will show you how to make some homemade dishes. Then try to make some dishes on your own — please take it seriously because this is your dinner.

Your guide and driver will escort you from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Phuket. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel ready to start your leisurely beach time.

This day is free for you to enjoy as you wish. You can sunbathe on the beach or take a trip to one of the nearby islands, such as Phi Phi Island or Phang Nga Bay.

Enjoy your free time in Phuket.

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast in your hotel. Say goodbye to Phuket and your guide and driver will transfer you to the airport to take your flight back to Bangkok. You can leave Thailand via Phuket or Bangkok. We wish you a pleasant journey!

Price Includes

Price from: $1,932 (Tour code: gh-ah-57)

Every element of the tour above can be tailored. Feel free to tell us your ideas and we will be happy to make adjustment for you.

Customizing the Tour — According to Your Needs

This tour is very flexible. We are happy to alter the itinerary with you, to extend or shorten it to suit your schedule. For example, you can extend your tour for 1 day to explore Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai or shorten 1-2 day on the beach.

Accommodation

Various types of accommodation are available, including famous 5-star hotel chains, 4-star hotels in the best locations, good value 3-star hotels, or boutique hotels that reflect the style of the region.

Whatever your accommodation preferences are, our travel experts will seek out and find the perfect one for you.

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Experience the best of Chiang Mai with Withlocals

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Enjoy Chiang Mai like a local

Let our local experts guide you through a handpicked selection of things to do on a private tour. Think hidden gems, insider stories, and all the local vibes. Ready to find your private tour of Chiang Mai? Your adventure-packed day is just one click away!

Top 5 tours in Chiang Mai

Make your stay in Chiang Mai complete with these things to do

1 Highlights & Hidden Gems of Chiang Mai

2 The 10 Tastings of Chiang Mai: Street Food

3 City Escape: Doi Inthanon Day Trip

4 City Discovery: Chiang Rai Day Trip

5 A Magical Evening in Chiang Mai: City Tour

Why you should book a withlocals tour, 100% customizable.

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Private tours with locals in Chiang Mai

Our locals will give you the best experiences that Chiang Mai has to offer

Highlights & Hidden Gems of Chiang Mai

The 10 tastings of chiang mai: street food, city escape: doi inthanon day trip, city discovery: chiang rai day trip, a magical evening in chiang mai: city tour, tranquil sunrise & buddhist rituals at doi suthep, explore the old city of chiang mai by bike, private​ trip to the unique sticky waterfalls in​ chiangmai​, explore chiang mai with our incredible locals.

Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Chiang Mai with locals

A Taste of Chiang Mai: Night Markets & Street Food Tour

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Nice, knowledgeable & very accommodating.

"We had 2 full day tours with Minty during our stay in Chiang Mai and we were very pleased. She was prompt, knowledgeable, communicated well, answered all of our questions, was flexible when we requested a change and was very kind. The transportation was comfortable and clean as well. "

"Kit was wonderful. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour. Learned lots about Buddhism. Seeing the sunrise and taking part of the food offering was very special. Kit had everything timed perfectly. It was wonderful to see the temple at such a quiet time was magical. The second temple was very unique and cool on its own. Kit was great and allowed us to walk the Monk trail down which was beautiful. Would recommend!!"

Unbelievably Unqiue Experience

"Kit was a fantastic tour guide, and what made the trip special was his combination of first-hand experiences as a monk and knowledge of the material being presented. We were initially concerned about the early wake up call with two small kids, but Kit’s storytelling kept them interested throughout the morning. Cannot recommend highly enough!!"

Great Day and a Must Do

"My husband and I were extremely pleased with how professional, accommodating, and knowledgeable Minty was. We flew into Chiang Mai only for this day tour and she picked us up and dropped us off at the airport. She came prepared with snacks and water for the drive to Chiang Rai and provided us with a lot of information about the locals, history, and even took us to the best Curry Noodle place I’ve ever been to. She was great company and assisted us with photos, translating when we needed assistance, and gave us very useful guidance before entering the temples. We absolutely loved our day with Minty and we highly recommend this tour."

Such a unique Chiang Mai experience!

"Incredible countryside Chiang Mai experience with a knowledgeable & personable host. Highly recommend this tour if you want to be pushed outside of our comfort zone (the bike ride was a workout)! While taking in beautiful views of the country side, we visited local crafters, rice paddies, enjoyed delicious local foods and even a distillery. There are loads on the itinerary, and Aei will just keep you surprised. Time will fly! We felt safe with Aei, it was like hanging with a pal. 😊 Happy that we choose this experience! "

Amazing Customized Tour (Gluten-Free)

"Aei was an incredible tour guide, who put together a kid friendly and gluten-free evening to accommodate our family. She was knowledgeable on gluten-free requirements and her relationships with the vendors allowed her to ask questions and relay information to make sure we felt good about what we were eating. Allergies aside, we had a great time and she showed us so much that we had to tell her we could t eat anymore! She’s great with kids too! Highly, highly recommend. We only wish we had done this earlier during our stay. "

The bedt guide in Chiang Mai!

"Aei is a fantastic guide! We were with her for 3 different tours over 2 days, and they were all great. She has a great personality and is so kind and generous both with her guests and everyone we encountered on our tours. We’ve been on a 4 week journey in both Japan and Thailand, and can say that Aei has been the best guide we’ve had! We really enjoyed the Chiang Mai bike tour - we were worried it would be too hot, but it was actually more comfortable than doing a walking tour and we saw so much more. We would highly recommend Aei for all of your Chiang Mai adventures! "

A fabulous cycle tour with Aie

"Really amazing tour we honestly felt we had experienced country life with Aie we were in her home village and saw some amazing things such as local Rhai whisky production, crab sauce preparation from the tiny crabs that are found in the rice paddies, the most beautiful duck farm owner , wood carving , bee hives, amazing lunch on the water it was endless . Just book , great bikes too and it’s very flat so really easy even in the heat of Chiang Mai district ! 😍"

Book Naphat for a very special experience

"I chose this tour and Naphat as our guide as we wanted to have an experience which helped us better understand Buddhism as well as seeing all the charming side of this great city. Naphat felt like a friend by the end of the tour and we would like to come back again one day and share more stories about our spiritual journey, Naphat is quite special and if you want to hear more about the spiritual aspect then she is indeed the guide for you. The old town is just brilliant and Naphat will point out many places to go to in the day and evening 😍"

What a fabulous food tour with Tanya! 🥰

"We use With Locals a lot, it’s a totally different and very special experience tailored to what you enjoy. Tanya was such a great host , I would highly recommend her not only for guiding us through many wonderful food tastings but also for fabulous conversation, we learned a lot about local Thai culture . This is a great introduction to Thai closing especially Lanna Northern Thai and we loved absolutely everything we sampled , very full by the end of the tour. Just book you will love it, trust me, we are foodies and there’s nothing better than a tour like this to learn about local cuisine 😍"

Enjoy the Best of the Chiang Mai Like a Local

Private & personalized tours in chiang mai with a local.

When you hit the road and land in a new city like Chiang Mai, there's an exciting way to dive into its soul: personalized local tours. Forget the typical touristy routes – these tours are like having a local friend show you around all the cool spots.

Imagine having someone who lives and breathes Chiang Mai spill its secrets. That's what local guides bring to the table. They know the hidden alleys, the best bites, and stories that never made it to the guidebooks. Whether you're into munching through food tours, wandering the city's streets, or going off the beaten path, a local guide hooks you up with a private tour that's authentically Chiang Mai.

The best part? These tours are all about you. No herding in big groups or rushing through places you're not interested in. With private tours, you're the boss. Whether it's snapping pics at iconic landmarks, diving into history, or checking out the art scene, the tour is tuned to your vibes at your tempo.

But it doesn't stop at city limits. Day trips let you escape the urban jungle and explore nearby wonders. And if you're just setting foot in Chiang Mai, kickstart tours give you a taste of everything. Think of it as a crash course in Chiang Mai awesomeness, guided by a local who knows the city like the back of their hand.

So, next time you're in Chiang Mai, ditch the ordinary. Grab a local tour and unlock the city's real magic – the stories, flavors, and places that make it uniquely Chiang Mai. Get ready to explore like a local!

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  Tour Operator   SpiceRoads Cycling

    Thailand

  11   days  

From the mountains and jungles of the North to the temple-filled plains of central Thailand, cycling through these regions offers unforgettable scenery and cultural experiences. Leaving the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, we ride south along shady roads that lead to the historic city of Lampang. Minor roads through rural Thailand eventually give way to the ruins of the former capital of Siam, Sukhothai. Cycling these ruins offers breathtaking views and informative insights into Thai culture. From there we head to more UNESCO sites Khampeng Phetand the historic Ayutthaya. We then ride to Bang Pa-In and the summer palace before ending our journey in the north part of Bangkok. The famous Thai smile, quiet back roads and some of the world's best cuisine - these are a few of the many attractive Thai aspects that are featured on this exciting road cycling tour from Chiang Mai to Bangkok.

Tour Information

Guided     US$   1750

Single Supplement

Bike Hire US$285 Trek Road Bike

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While great care has been taken to show full and correct tour details, unfortunately transcription errors do occur and, although we continually seek to eliminate these, we apologise for any mistakes. Plans or bookings should not be made exclusively based on information shown on this website but must be confirmed with the tour operator.