5 day itinerary for Chiang Mai

Itinerary

Chiang Mai is a fantastic destination for families, especially with its rich culture, beautiful nature, and delicious vegan food options. Here’s a relaxed 5-day itinerary that’s perfect for your family, ensuring safety and plenty of learning opportunities. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old City

Morning:

• Arrive in Chiang Mai and check into a family-friendly hotel or guesthouse in the Old City. Look for places with good reviews on safety and comfort.
• After settling in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Dada Cafe, which offers a great selection of vegan options.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Old City on foot. Visit Wat Phra Singh, one of the most important temples in Chiang Mai. The architecture is stunning, and it’s a great place to learn about Thai Buddhism.
• Stop for lunch at The Salad Concept, where you can create your own salad with fresh, local ingredients.

Evening:

• Stroll through the Sunday Walking Street Market (if it’s Sunday) or visit the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for some shopping and local crafts.
• Dinner at Pun Pun Organic Vegetarian Restaurant, which offers a variety of delicious vegan dishes.

## Day 2: Nature and Culture

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to Elephant Nature Park. This sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing elephants and offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about these majestic creatures in a responsible way. Make sure to book in advance!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a vegan lunch at the park, which is included in the tour. You’ll have a chance to feed and bathe the elephants, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.

Evening:

• Return to Chiang Mai and relax at your accommodation.
• For dinner, try Khao Soi Khun Yai, famous for its Khao Soi (a Northern Thai curry noodle dish) with vegan options available.

## Day 3: Adventure and Learning

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a half-day cooking class at Baipai Thai Cooking School. They offer a family-friendly class where you can learn to make traditional Thai dishes, with vegan options available.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy the meal you’ve prepared for lunch! Afterward, visit the Chiang Mai Art and Cultural Centre to learn about the history and culture of the region.

Evening:

• Head to The Good View Village for dinner, where you can enjoy a riverside setting and a variety of vegan-friendly dishes.

## Day 4: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Take a day trip to Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Start with a visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a stunning temple with breathtaking views of the city. The hike up is manageable and offers a great opportunity to bond as a family.

Afternoon:

• After exploring the temple, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park. You can prepare some vegan snacks or grab some from a local market before heading out.
• Spend the afternoon hiking or visiting the Hmong Village nearby to learn about the local hill tribe culture.

Evening:

• Return to Chiang Mai and unwind. For dinner, try Aum Vegetarian Restaurant, which has a wide range of vegan options.

## Day 5: Markets and Relaxation

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the Warorot Market. This is a great place to experience local life, and you can find plenty of vegan snacks and fresh produce.

Afternoon:

• Head to Bua Thong Waterfalls (Sticky Waterfalls) for a fun and unique experience. The waterfalls are safe to climb, and the kids will love it! Pack a vegan picnic to enjoy by the falls.

Evening:

• Return to Chiang Mai and enjoy a farewell dinner at Tamarind Village, which offers a lovely atmosphere and vegan-friendly options.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Always carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Use local transport options like tuk-tuks or songthaews for a fun experience.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Embrace the local culture and don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful and memorable time in Chiang Mai! Enjoy your trip! 🌏✨