Where to Stay in Chiang Mai Thailand and the Must See Activities
Looking for the best of the best of Chiang Mai? Keep on reading to find out where to stay in Chiang Mai Thailand and the must see activities.
Chiang Mai is famous for many things. Elephant sanctuaries, beautiful temples, night markets, and of course access to natural beauty. It’s easy to see why it’s one of Thailand’s most popular destinations.
Getting to this amazing location is now easier than ever thanks to Air Canada’s direct flight from Vancouver to Bangkok. Once in Bangkok it’s just a short local flight to get to Chiang Mai. You can check out flight options from Air Canada here.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai Thailand
Raya Heritage
Raya Heritage is a beautiful hotel located just a 20 minute drive from Chiang Mai city center.
If I had to describe Raya Heritagee in one word it would be sanctuary. Because that’s what it truly felt like.
The entire property from top to bottom felt like a calm and peaceful getaway spa. Not only does it sit along the Ping River but the entire space is dotted with lush greenery. The lobby is especially impressive with a calming water feature that also looks over a courtyard with one of the most beautiful trees I’ve ever seen prominently displayed as the center feature thay greets you when you enter.
The space is adorned with locally handcrafted Thai goods, furniture, and accessories and does a seamless job of blending Traditional Thai design with modern amenities and features.
I had the pleasure of dining at one of their restaurants Khu Khao. Breakfast offers a wide selection of both western and Thai traditional dishes and was the perfect way to start the morning.
Dinner however was a real treat. The menu focuses on the rice culture of Northern Thai cuisine and every dish was delicious and the presentation beyond exceptional.
We were also treated to an afternoon tea experience at Laan Cha Tea Terrace.
With plush blue seating and a terrace that overlooks the Ping River it’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy their high tea set which features an extensive menu of naturally Thai-grown teas
In the evening be sure to check out Baan Ta Lounge & Lawn. Their cocktail lounge differs starkly from the rest of the property which is light and airy. Here at the lounge the palette is dark and moody, perfect to give you that night life feel without having to venture off the hotel of you don’t want to.
The cocktails and snacks here are also definitely something you’ll want to try out.
One of the experiences that Raya Heritage offers to their guests is the opportunity to visit a local organic farm where they source ingredients used in their restaurants
You get to tour the farm, learn about their process, and then enjoy a homemade meal made by the farm owners and operators.
It’s really great to see how much Raya Heritage supports local producers and thus was definitely one of my favourite meals in Thailand.
What to Do – Chiang Mai Thailand
Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand.
There are hikes available of all skill level. Even if you don’t climb all the way to the top you’ll still be rewarded with beautiful views, waterfalls, and greenery throughout.
There’s also stop points where you can get food to eat and souvenirs.
Patara Elephant Sanctuary
Patara Elephant Sanctuary is a must visit in Chiang Mai.
As a responsible elephant sanctuary they help care for the elephants, a lot of who have been rescued from from inhumane situations.
You can participate in a program for the day called “Elephant care giver for a day” where you’ll be assigned an elephant and learn how to care for an elephant under the supervision of a certified Elephant guardian.
It’s a life changing experience that everyone should experience at least once in their life if you’re able to. It’s truly a humbling experience being able to interact with these beautiful creatures up close.
Flower Market
Chiang Mai is blessed with many great markets, including a flower market that is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Here you’ll find everything from roses, orchids, chrysanthemums, baby’s breath of all colours.
Prices for fresh flowers are incredibly reasonable with even elaborate bouquets selling for less than $100 CAD.
It’s a real feast for the eyes for any who loves florals. And who doesn’t?
Where to Eat – Chiang Mai Thailand
Wanlamun Rim Nam Restaurant
Wanlamun Rim Nam restaurant is located along the Ping River and has some incredible views while you dine.
They’re known for their authentic Thai dishes as well as their desserts, so make sure you get both!
Khao Mao Khao Fang Restaurant
Khao Mao Khao Fang Restaurant is famous for their rainforest setting which includes beautiful forest greenery and waterfalls. You’ll truly feel like you’re dining in the middle of a lush forest paradise.
The menu features amazing local Thai dishes and has even been featured in the Michelin Guide. Come here if you love tasty dishes with a side of beautiful scenery.
Cafe Lamour
Cafe Lamour, also known as the “Yellow House”, is actually part restaurant and part hair salon. The restaurant is located on the main level while the hair salon is located on the upper level.
While the hairdresser’s are well known for their stylish haircuts the restaurant is definitely one to visit.
Besides the fact that it’s bright & colourful exterior is gorgeous to look at the food is also definitely something not to miss.
I tried out the khao soi, the official dish of Chiang Mai, and it was incredible. Everything is incredibly well made and the presentation is phenomenal.
Nimman Road
Nimman Road is famous for both the shopping and the food options. It’s an area that attracts a younger crowd because of it’s abundance of trendy shops and restaurants.
Most of the stalls here feature local Thai dishes as well as a few with Japanese or Asian fusion.
However there are quite a few stalls which also sell clothing, ceramics, artwork, and other locally made crafts.
It’s definitely a spot that you’ll want to visit if you want to enjoy some vibrant night life while possibly picking up some unique goods to take home as souvenirs.
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