Old City

It's my second visit to Chiang Mai, and this quiet little city is full of hidden gems. In an inconspicuous corner of the northwest of the old city of Chiang Mai, there is a white European-style building with golden decorations, distressed murals, and carvings, all exuding a Renaissance style. 🏛 There is a separate building that you must visit, where you need to remove your shoes. The carvings and the colored window grilles inside are really exquisite, as if they are the palaces of the Versailles Garden. - 📍Versailles de flore ☕️ You can enjoy coffee and afternoon tea, 🏊🏻 and there is also a swimming pool for a swim.

Chiang Mai is a foreign city that is particularly suitable for independent travel. The travel services on Ctrip are comprehensive, with airport pick-up and drop-off services for only 10-30 RMB, half-day tours to "Doi Suthep Temple" and "Bhubing Palace", family-friendly activities such as "Mae Wang Elephant Camp" and "Night Safari", and the most recommended one-day tour to the White Temple and Black Temple in Chiang Rai. On the day of departure, there will be a special car to pick up and drop off at the hotel. Even if your English is poor, there will be a Chinese tour guide accompanying you throughout the journey. I chose to depart on Friday because as a foodie, I didn't want to miss the most famous Saturday and Sunday night markets in Chiang Mai, where there are various cheap and delicious snacks and exquisite handmade products for sale. Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand. It not only has a leisurely pace, but also is full of ancient and profound cultural heritage. You can walk around in slippers on the streets and alleys, and if you get tired, you only need to take a tuk-tuk or songthaew for 20 baht (5 RMB) as transportation. Strolling through any street or alley in the ancient city of Chiang Mai, you can encounter magnificent or peaceful Buddhist temples. This small city with a population of 500,000 surprisingly has over 300 temples of all sizes, and you may get confused. However, there are several particularly famous temples that you must visit. The first "Wat Phra Singh". It is the largest Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, built in the 14th century, and is a perfect example of Lanna-style architecture. The first thing that catches your eye when entering the temple is the glittering golden Buddha statue, and the murals in the hall depict the ancient local costumes and customs. In the center of the temple is a 20-meter golden white tower, which is a strong representative style of Thai temples. The second "Qidilong Temple", also known as the Big Buddha Temple, is decorated with snakes and peacocks at the temple gate. There is a huge Buddha statue in the main hall, and the sense of space and the golden decorations inside the temple are very magnificent and exquisite. Along the path to the back square, there is a big Buddha pagoda. Although the ancient pagoda has been weathered by time and earthquakes, it appears majestic and magnificent under the reflection of the golden lotus flowers, with a simple and rustic charm. The third "Wat Chiang Man", the first temple in Chiang Mai, was built in 1300 and is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. The best building in the temple is the stupa of the main temple, which is surrounded by 15 elephants at the base, giving it a simple and vicissitudinous appearance that contrasts sharply with the dazzling golden elephant spire. Not far from the city, the "Double Dragon Temple" on the Suthep Mountain, also known as the Suthep Temple, is named after two long dragons sitting and lying on both sides of the steps. It is a famous Buddhist summer resort in Thailand. The Thai royal summer palace is also built on Suthep Mountain. The Phuping Palace can be opened to the public when the royal family is not there from April to December. The palace has beautiful white walls and yellow tiles, and is located in the green mountains and trees, with its own beauty of coolness and peace. The two breathtaking temples in Chiang Rai, the White Temple and the Black Temple, are the highlights of a trip to Chiang Mai. The White Temple was built by designer Cheler Mchai at his own expense and was first established in 1997. The entire complex is pure white and lustrous, with only small pieces of polished glass as borders or decorations, which is quite different from the usual temples. The details, such as the flying birds on the eaves, the standing statues on the roof, the reclining turtles on the pillars, and the flowing clouds on the flags, all reflect the exquisite and delicate design, which is a masterpiece of art. The White Temple tells the story of how one can reach the Buddhist paradise by crossing the Naihe Bridge and avoiding the temptation of hell with a single-minded focus. Next to the White Temple is a "glittering" golden building, which is actually a toilet and is probably the most beautiful toilet in the world. The Black Temple is located in a forest of lush grass, consisting of many intricately constructed Thai temples made of original logs. The theme of the Black Temple is hell and death, with water buffalo skulls lined up on the ground, animal skins and large shells on the table, and a complete elephant skeleton and dried snake specimens on display. The creator, Mr. Thawan Duchanee, spent 36 years gradually designing and building this huge open-air, garden-style private art museum. His disciple and friend, a Buddhist artist, was inspired by him to create the still unfinished White Temple. In Chiang Mai, magnificent temples can be seen everywhere, filled with the mysterious charm of Eastern Buddhist culture. With cheap prices and convenient transportation, it is definitely a perfect place for you to temporarily escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and people you see with your eyes open or closed, and let yourself fly. Take some beautiful photos that will make you want to cry and savor them slowly.

Upon arriving in Chiang Mai, you will naturally feel happy and slow down. Thailand is indeed chill 🍃 and the accommodations are very comfortable. 🇹🇭 Chiang Mai Accommodation Guide 1⃣ Old City of Chiang Mai 【Accommodation Advantages】Quiet amidst the hustle and bustle, a gathering place for attractions and temples, convenient transportation 【Main Attractions】Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Sunday Night Market, Tha Phae Gate 【Suitable For】Everyone 【Recommended】Makha Hotel 2⃣ Chiang Mai University and Nimman Road 【Accommodation Advantages】A gathering place for literary youth, with many niche shops, cafes, etc. 【Main Attractions】Chiang Mai University, Nimman Road 【Suitable For】Quiet, artistic tourists 【Recommended】AT Nimman Conceptual Home 3⃣ Chang Klan Night Market 【Accommodation Advantages】A great place for shopping, a paradise for foodies, 2 kilometers from the Old City, excellent location 【Suitable For】Eating, drinking, playing, and strolling 【Recommended】Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel and Spa 4⃣ Riverside 【Accommodation Advantages】Enjoy the riverside scenery, visit Warorot Market 【Suitable For】Quiet living environment, affordable prices 【Recommended】Anantara Hotel 5⃣ Doi Suthep and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep 【Accommodation Advantages】Overlooking the panoramic view of Chiang Mai. Fresh air, pleasant climate 【Main Attractions】Doi Suthep, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep 【Suitable For】Leisure vacation 【Recommended】Chiang Mai Gate Bed & Breakfast

Scroll to the last slide for an exciting video 📹 as we take you on an adventurous night cycling and TukTuk tour around the charming city of Chiangmai! Join us and @tourismthailand as we uncover the secrets of Wat Lok Moli Buddhist Temple - one of the oldest temples in Chiangmai, with a history spanning over 650 years. 🏯 Immerse yourself in the sacred atmosphere and marvel at the intricate architecture that showcases the rich cultural heritage. 💒 Discovering new paths and experiencing the local traditions is what travel is all about. Hop on a TukTuk and let its vibrant colors guide you through the enchanting streets. 🚖 As the night unfolds, witness the city come alive with flickering lights and a buzzing energy that is uniquely Chiangmai. 🌃✨ Don't miss out on this incredible journey. Keep exploring, and let the magic unfold as new experiences pave the way to unforgettable memories! CR：dotzsoh& Contact us for removal

【Introduction】: When you come to Chiang Mai, you must try the local snacks. Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand, so its flavors are also influenced by neighboring countries. They are very unique and a must-try. Below is a list of the ten most representative local snacks in Chiang Mai, arranged in order to match the picture numbers. They are delicious, affordable, and very exotic. 🍤【Special Dishes】: 1. Khao Soi Curry Noodles---Rich and delicious yellow curry noodle soup, served with scallions, pickles, and lime slices. 2. Khan Toke Platter---It is not a single dish but a signature dining experience of Lanna. Khan Toke is served on a low teak tray that doubles as a table, including a variety of northern-flavored side dishes and a basket of sticky rice. It is suitable for couples or families to experience an exotic dining style. 3. Sai Oua Grilled Herb Sausage---A form of northern Thai sausage made from minced pork, dried chilies, garlic, scallions, and a variety of spicy herbs and spices. It has a strong herbal aroma and chili flavor, very appetizing, suitable for eating while strolling the night market. 4. Nam Prik Ong/Nume Red Chili Paste/Green Chili Paste with Vegetables---Green chili paste (Nam Prik Nume) is made from roasted chilies and is very spicy, while red chili paste (Nam Prik Ong) is milder. 5. Gaeng Hang Lay Burmese Sweet Curry---A yellow curry made with tamarind soup, pork chunks, scallions, and shrimp paste. It originated in Myanmar, but the adapted northern Thai version uses less oil and no coconut cream. The texture is not as thick as Thai curry but has a simple and unadorned flavor that is unforgettable. 6. Kanom Jeen Nam Ngiao Curry Soybean Noodles---Made with pork soybean curry and fresh vegetables (Kaeb Moo). The soup tastes quite refreshing, and if you go out in the morning, you can have a bowl of this nearby, very delightful. 7. Miang Kham---A traditional finger food made with fresh betel leaves, sweet syrup, and various fillings such as sliced scallions, fresh red or green chilies, diced ginger, garlic, lime, dried shrimp, and roasted coconut. You can taste all or part of the fillings in one bite. This is usually served as an appetizer in larger restaurants, and you may not come across it often while strolling, but it is worth a try if you are interested. 8. Tam Khanun---Jackfruit cooked until soft, then stir-fried with garlic, dried chilies, and shrimp paste. The rich sweet, sour, salty, and nutty flavors will explode in your mouth, not an exaggeration. 9. Stir-fried Spicy Meat with Rice---Beef, fish, pork, and offal stir-fried with dried chilies and sticky rice, served with pork curry and spices. The flavor is very complex. 10. Gaeng Hoh Chiang Mai Salad---Fermented bamboo shoots, red curry paste, Hang Lay curry paste, and curry mixed with various herbs and vegetables, pork belly, vermicelli, shrimp paste, and chilies, as well as fermented seafood. It is very flavorful and is perfect as a late-night snack, a gentle touch of Chiang Mai at midnight. ⛲【Restaurant Environment】: Except for 2 Khan Toke and 7 Miang Kham, you can find the rest at street food stalls, night markets, and food markets. 👩【Restaurant Service】: Besides the smile and generous portions, there is basically no extra service. The main focus is on being down-to-earth and affordable. 💴【Per Capita Consumption】: Each item will not exceed 150🐖 per person. Chiang Mai Old City If you can't find something or have any questions, you can ask me in the comments section.

Thai people have a unique artistic talent in temple construction, and the temples in Chiang Mai each have their own characteristics, worthy of a pilgrimage one by one. The White Temple is known for its pure white purity, the Black Temple is a modern museum that integrates architectural aesthetics, and the Blue Temple makes extensive use of blue and Lanna elements. In the old city area, there is the historically significant Wat Phra Singh, the Lanna-style Wat Chiang Man, and Wat Chedi Luang with its Sri Lankan stupa. The glittering Twin Dragons Temple on Suthep Mountain is also a must-visit attraction. You can follow the travel agency's recommended route to experience the charm of different temples in the ancient city and feel the unique architectural art and cultural atmosphere of Northern Thailand. This temple tour is sure to make you linger and forget to return.

👣I recommend a Chiang Mai City Walk, a one-day temple pilgrimage route You can visit several important and classic temples at a leisurely pace ⏮Start from Wat Chedi Luang in the center of the old city This is the tallest temple in the old city, which is said to be the pillar that shelters the city The tower is already dilapidated, and the mottled stone statues on it tell the vicissitudes of time ➡️Coming out of Wat Chedi Luang is Wat Phan Tao The golden stupa and the dark teak temple complement each other Colorful flags can be seen fluttering in the wind everywhere in the temple ⬆️Continuing north, you can reach Wat Chiang Man It is said to be the oldest temple in Chiang Mai The base of the stupa is adorned with sculptures of 15 elephants The whole temple is shaded by green trees, very serene, suitable for a quiet sit in the afternoon ⬆️It is very close to the north gate of the old city here You can visit Wat Lok Molee near the north gate The all-black temple body has a mysterious feel reminiscent of the Black Temple in Chiang Rai ⏬Finally, you can head south back to the old city to Wat Phra Singh This is the largest and most revered temple in the old city, with a bustling incense offering The temple is luxuriously decorated, with gorgeous golden stupas and inlaid paintings that are very beautiful ✔️On Sundays, this is also the starting point for the weekly night market ⏭In addition to the above temples, there are also some small unnamed temples that you can explore slowly along the way 🌟Some tips 🌞The climate in Chiang Mai is cool and dry (compared to Bangkok and Phuket), but it is still hot at noon, you can spend the heat in a cafe or restaurant, most temples have no shelter, so be prepared for sun protection 💰The temples in Chiang Mai Old City are free except for Wat Chedi Luang, which costs 50🐷

🌟 Highlights: Wat Chedi Luang is probably the largest temple in the old city of Chiang Mai, featuring typical Lanna-style architecture. The main hall is grand and resplendent with gold, and once inside, you can sit on the floor. Despite the crowd, it doesn't feel noisy at all. The most famous part of the temple is the ancient and majestic great stupa, surrounded by many Buddha halls. These buildings with ethnic characteristics, nestled among the tropical plants of Southeast Asia, form a beautiful picture. Walking slowly around the great stupa, a sense of antiquity hits you, accompanied by the clear sound of wind chimes, adding to the tranquility and simplicity. ✨ Temple Highlights: ✅ As you enter the temple, there is a small hall on the side with a sign stating that women are not allowed inside. The reason for this is that the hall enshrines the city pillar of Chiang Mai - the Inthakin City Pillar. According to Chiang Mai legend, the Inthakin City Pillar was built by the god Indra for the stability of Chiang Mai, and the pillar serves as a reminder to the people to adhere to the Five Precepts of Buddhism. The people of Chiang Mai believe that the city pillar represents the prosperity and happiness of the city, and it is sacred and inviolable. Therefore, to this day, women, especially those in their menstrual period, are considered impure and are not allowed to approach. The hall is not large, but all four walls are adorned with exquisite murals. Apart from this, there is no such distinction in other areas of the temple. ✅ The Buddha statue at the entrance of the main hall allows visitors to buy gold leaf to stick on it, or to find and stick on their own zodiac sign. ✅ The tall and majestic stupa offers a massive visual impact. This great stupa is the oldest structure in the temple. After the 1545 Chiang Mai earthquake, the top of the stupa collapsed overnight, so what you see now is a flat top. Walking around and admiring it, each angle offers its own magnificent view. The stupa has stairs on only one side, and on the south side of the stupa, there are six elephant sculptures, five of which were rebuilt later, with only the one without a nose and ears being the original. 🎫 Ticket Information: Tickets are 40 Thai Baht, open from 06:00-18:00. 🚉 Transportation Tips: The temple is located at the southern end of PhraPokklao Road in the old city of Chiang Mai. Generally, those staying in the old city or nearby can walk there.

Indeed, no two temples in Chiang Mai are the same. During lunchtime, I saw this complex of buildings across the street and couldn't resist walking in. In that moment, I thought I had entered a castle🏰 An empty temple, yet the candlelight still flickered The sound of bells on the eaves collided with the melodious singing If you like photography, Wat Hua Khuang is really great material ❤️ Opposite is a branch of the Women's Prison Thai Massage shop and a Michelin-starred restaurant, which can be included in one itinerary

1️⃣ Nimman Road The first must-visit stop is the famous and quaint 'Nimman Road,' the most charming place in Chiang Mai. Not only is it lined with numerous unique shops, but it also boasts a variety of distinctive cafes. If you're tired from walking, why not find a cafe you like and sit down to quietly savor the unique atmosphere of Chiang Mai. Nimman Road is not just one road; it's a main thoroughfare that branches off into several smaller streets, each filled with a variety of creative shops and restaurants. To fully explore all of Nimman Road, I think you would need to spend half a day, and its fresh vibe is particularly suitable for couples or girls to take photos. 📍Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Thailand 2️⃣ The Unmissable Temple Culture ⭕️ Wat Buppharam: The design and patterns of the temple are indeed very tasteful. It is a temple that mixes Burmese and Lanna styles and is worth capturing in photos. ⭕️ Wat Phra Singh: The largest temple in the old city and also the most visited by tourists. It is famous for housing the Phra Singh (Lion Buddha). It is the highest-status and largest temple in Chiang Mai, on par with Wat Chedi Luang. ⭕️ Wat Chedi Luang: Located at the southern end of PhraPokklao Road in the old city. It is known for its visually striking large pagoda, established in 1411. Among the six major temples in Chiang Mai, it is the most famous and, along with Wat Phra Singh, is considered the most revered temple in Chiang Mai. The entrance is adorned with snake and peacock decorations, and inside there is a huge Buddha statue. Wat Chedi Luang is the temple I personally find most worth visiting, both for its grandeur and unique architectural design. ⚠️PS: There are many details to pay attention to when entering Thai temples, which I think those who have been to Thailand should know. I would like to emphasize again! 1. Do not wear skirts, especially short skirts, or too revealing clothes; you cannot enter the temple in such attire. If you really want to wear them, you must put on a robe or apron provided by the temple. 2. Be sure to take off your shoes before entering the temple hall! Definitely! Definitely! 3. Be mindful that some temples do not allow wearing too bright clothes. 4. Do not touch Buddha statues or other religious items, do not speak loudly, women should not directly hand things to monks, do not stand taller than monks when taking photos, and do not gesture randomly with your hands! 3️⃣ Tha Phae Gate Tha Phae Gate is not far from Wat Buppharam. After visiting the temple, you might want to stroll over to Tha Phae Gate. Perhaps you'll find yourself playing with the pigeons involuntarily, as the frequent feeding by tourists always attracts a large flock of pigeons here. So, taking photos here is very nice! 📍Tha Phae Road, Chang Khlan Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand 4️⃣ Sunday Night Market Starting from the Tha Phae Gate Square on the east side of the old city and stretching along Ratchadamnoen Road and nearby side streets, it crosses the central main street of Chiang Mai's old city, all the way to Wat Phra Singh, nearly 1 kilometer. The night market offers a wide variety of souvenirs at affordable prices (bargaining is possible), including local handicrafts, antiques, creative items, and more, as well as a variety of snacks worth trying. At the end of the side street in front of Wat Chedi Luang, there are also free song and dance performances, a wonderful night not to be missed! I believe you will, like me, bring home many treasures! 📍Rachadamnoen Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

| The perfect experience of a carefree slow life. The ancient city of Chiang Mai is the site of the palace of the former Lanna Thai dynasty. The ancient city is not large, but it still retains parts of the old city walls and moat, as well as several well-known temples in Chiang Mai. If time allows, you can walk through it all, following this route, you can check out the famous spots without worrying about getting lost! Tour Route: Tha Phae Gate - Wat Chedi Luang - Wat Phra Singh - Wat Chiang Man 1️⃣ Tha Phae Gate There are four gates in the old city area, and the easternmost one is Tha Phae Gate. First, enter the ancient city of Chiang Mai from here. It is a landmark building of the ancient city and the most intact gate within the city. In front of the gate, there is a popular photo spot for feeding pigeons. For 20 baht, you can have a great photo with the pigeons. Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: All day 2️⃣ Wat Chedi Luang After entering the ancient city, continue walking inside, and you will find Wat Chedi Luang in the center of the old city area. It is the most famous temple in the city, built in 1411. It has experienced earthquakes, lightning, and wars, and is still the tallest building in the ancient city. In the center of the temple, there is a Lanna-style square Buddha stupa. Even though the stupa is full of historical traces, you can still feel its grand past. Entrance fee: Adults 40 baht, children half price Opening hours: Daily 6:00-18:00 3️⃣ Wat Phra Singh Continue walking west to reach Wat Phra Singh, built in 1345 and expanded several times. It is now the largest temple in Chiang Mai. One of the attractions is a golden stupa located in the temple, which is said to contain the relics of the Buddha. Entrance fee: Wat Phra Singh is free, entering the main hall is 20 baht/person Opening hours: Daily 5:00-23:00 4️⃣ Wat Chiang Man Leaving Wat Phra Singh and walking towards the northeast of the old city, you can reach Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, built in 1300. The most famous part is the stupa with carvings of 15 elephants. The golden top of the stupa + the mottled body of the stupa, it is said that walking around the stupa can bring blessings and peace. Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: Daily 6:00-18:00