How to Spend 2 Days in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations because of its old world charm. Although Chiang Mai is a small city, it has plenty to offer its visitors. So if you’re planning on spending two days in Chiang Mai, here’s how you can make the most of it.

Day 1

Start off your day by visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. This ancient Buddhist temple is situated at the foothills of the stunning Doi Suthep Mountain and known for its brilliant sculptors, stained glass windows and the stunning Seven-Tier Chedi. After exploring the temple grounds, take a walk through the nearby city and soak up all its nooks and crannies.

In the afternoon, you should explore the bustling night bazaar in the Old City area. Here, you’ll find artisanal handicrafts, trinkets, souvenirs and many more interesting items, so be sure to haggle your way to some great deals! In the evening, impress your tastebuds with a delicious dinner of northern Thai foods cooked from recipes long-honored by locals.

Day 2

For your second day in Chiang Mai, spend it at one of the many natural parks just outside the city. Whether you’re after a day of adventure at Maetamann Elephant Sanctuary or Samor Kerd National Park or want to get up close with majestic elephants at The Chiang Dao Elephant Nature Park – there’s something for everyone.

If you’d rather stay inside the city, visit Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phrasingh, two important historical sites located in the city centre. End off your day at Tamarind Village, a small boutique hotel offering yoga classes, cooking classes and Thai-style spa treatments.

No matter how long you plan on staying in Chiang Mai, it’s easy to find things to do that fit your interests and budget. And with so many temples, markets, parks and activities to enjoy, Chiang Mai is truly a city that has something for everyone.

For more information about what to do in Chiang Mai as well as accommodation and transportation options Chiang Mai Guru is an amazing resource to check out. With detailed travel tips and attractions reviews, it’s the perfect website to plan your perfect trip.

Insider’s Guide: How to Spend 2 Days in Chiang Mai

Nestled in the northern part of Thailand, Chiang Mai is a must-see destination for travelers in Southeast Asia. The city is renowned for its rich history, temples, and amazing street food. With so many things to see and experience, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to Chiang Mai. Here is an insider’s guide on how to spend 2 days in Chiang Mai.

Day 1: Discover the Temples, History and Culture

Start your day early with a visit to the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple, one of the most famous landmarks in Chiang Mai. Located at the top of a mountain, the temple provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city. Watch the sunrise and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the temple.

After the temple visit, head to the Old City, surrounded by a moat and ancient walls – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient temples such as Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chiang Man. Each of these temples has been standing for hundreds of years and signifies a rich history. Take a stroll through the winding streets and discover the city’s stunning architecture, unique shops, and quaint cafes.

For lunch, try out some street food at the famous Warorot Market or Talat Ton Payom Market. These bustling markets are full of local delicacies and offer a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.

In the afternoon, visit the Baan Kang Wat Artist Village, a charming community of artisans and designers. Here, you can meet and interact with local artists, learn traditional crafts, and shop for unique and handmade souvenirs.

End your first day with a cultural experience by attending a Khantoke Dinner, which features traditional Northern Thai cuisine accompanied by dance performances.

Day 2: Experience Nature and Adventure

Chiang Mai is surrounded by lush green mountains and has an abundance of natural beauty. Start your day with a morning hike at the Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest peak in Thailand. Take in the stunning views of waterfalls, rice paddies, and hill tribe villages.

After your trek, visit an elephant sanctuary to interact with these gentle giants ethically. The Elephant Nature Park is an example of a sanctuary that is known to provide a true sanctuary experience for visitors while ensuring the well-being of rescued elephants.

For lunch, visit the quaint district of Nimmanhaemin, where you can find trendy cafes, boutiques, and local restaurants. Savor tasty lunch and shop for some souvenirs.

In the afternoon, visit the Bua Tong or Sticky Waterfalls, located north of Chiang Mai. The waterfall is unique in that the rocks are not slippery, allowing visitors to climb up the falls. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

For a more adventurous option, visit the Flight of the Gibbon zipline, an outdoor activity that takes you soaring through the jungle canopy.

End your second day with a visit to the Night Bazaar, a lively market that sells everything from handicrafts to street food. It’s the perfect place to soak in the vibrant energy of Chiang Mai.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have an extra day, head out to the Mae Hong Son Loop and explore the countryside. The loop connects several ancient cities and tribal villages, and you can rent a motorbike or join a guided tour for the journey.

Another off-beat option is to experience the evening monks’ walk. Every evening, locals arrange offerings of food and other essentials along the roadside, and the monks walk barefoot through the crowds, accepting the offerings for their daily sustenance.

Chiang Mai offers something unique for every traveler. With its rich culture, history, and nature, it’s worth taking your time to explore every corner of this city. This insider’s guide is the perfect starting point for your two-day trip to Chiang Mai.