Escape to Northern Thailand, where ancient temples, vibrant street markets, and breathtaking mountain landscapes create the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. In this 5-day travel guide, we explore Chiang Mai’s best spots and take a scenic trip to Chiang Dao, a hidden gem surrounded by limestone mountains and peaceful countryside.
How to Get to Chiang Dao from Chiang Mai? Chiang Dao is just a 1 hour scooter or car ride from Chiang Mai, making it an easy getaway for those craving nature and tranquility.
00:00 Intro 00:26 Day 1: city stroll & coconut market, changthong heritage park, one nimman, khao soi nimman, massage 07:21 Day 2: thai breakfast, roast8ry La, roadtrip, huai tueng thao, sheep farm, blue noodle restaurant, Wat Chedi Luang 11:01 Day 3: carrot café, wat phra tha doi suthep, khao soi nimman, chiang mai pao park, nightlife in chiang mai 16:04 Day 4: drive to chiang dao, dantewada, atmosphere café, the stay, fireplace and dinner 19:48 Day 5: wake up in chiang dao and breakfast, giant trees alley, pronto café, Wat Tham Chiang Dao 21:25 Day 5:drive to chiang rai
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From the laid-back charm of Chiang Mai to the misty mountains of Chiang Dao,
Northern Thailand is a blend of vibrant culture and untouched nature.
With its cooler climate, towering temples and hidden retreats,
this region offers the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.
Let me show you how to travel the best of Northern Thailand.
Our journey begins at the coconut market,
surrounded by fresh produce and the morning bustle of locals going about their routine.
The smell of acarajé from Sira
At the top of the hill
There's an aperitif and a pool
While in Undine
There are alligators and capelinas
At the top of the hill
There's an aperitif and a pool
While in Undine
There are alligators and capelinas
From there, we are heading to Changthong Heritage Park,
which is only 10 minutes away from Coconut Market.
Back in town, we're going to explore Wan Nimman,
where modern industrial architecture meets local craft shops and cafes.
A great spot for lunch and just soaking in Chiang Mai's creative energy.
Heading to the Michelin-starred Khao Soi next,
to enjoy the most famous dish known in Northern Thailand,
a rich and creamy bowl of Khao Soi.
For a perfect end of our first day, we treated ourselves to a relaxing night massage.
With caffeine kicking in, we're hopping on our bike to explore the city.
Riding through quiet alleys and buzzing streets,
past town's famous tourist attractions,
it's the best way to see Chiang Mai up close.
By late afternoon, we are escaping to Huai Tung Tua,
where the golden light stretches over the lake
and a small sheep farm adds to the peacefulness.
After the delicious noodles, we are exploring Wat Chedi Loang,
a temple dated back to the 14th century,
one of the city's most significant and historic temples.
Its beauty is even more star-struck by the beauty of the temple itself.
we are heading up the winding road to a temple up the mountain.
Climbing the 300 steps, golden spires shining and a view that never gets old.
Back in the city for another bowl of Khao Soi at Khao Soi Nimman.
By sunset, we're unwinding at Pao Park, where the mountains fade into the evening sky.
I'm remembering the words you told me
Wait, hold on, put me together, take me back where I belong
I want it all, I had a feeling but the feeling is all gone
Wait, hold on, put me together, take me back where I belong
I want it all, I had a feeling but the feeling is all gone
The night ends with a slow walk through the city, bright lights,
energy-filled streets and the kind of energy that makes Chiang Mai special.
I want it all, I had a feeling but the feeling is all gone
Riding out of Chiang Mai on a scooter toward Chiang Dao.
But first, a stop at the hidden gem, Dante Wada, Land of Angels,
a serene retreat surrounded by nature, quiet, peaceful and almost otherworldly.
Then, a slow coffee break at Atmosphere Cafe, watching the sun dip behind the mountains.
I'm remembering the words you told me
Wait, hold on, put me together, take me back where I belong
I want it all, I had a feeling but the feeling is all gone
Wait, hold on, put me together, take me back where I belong
By sunset, we reach the Paradise Resort and Cafe, our stay for the next two nights.
The
easily the most stunning stay of the trip, surrounded by towering peaks and absolute calm.
After a slow morning, we are heading to the Giant Trees Alley,
where towering trees create a tunnel of green, peaceful, untouched, and almost surreal.
Then we heading to Wat Tam Chiang Dao.
Wrapping up this trip by driving back to Chiang Mai and catching a bus to Chiang Rai.
Check this video next to see how to travel Chiang Rai.