Welcome to Chiang Mai! Known as the “Rose of the North,” Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand and a cultural hub of the region. On our third day of our trip, we have some exciting activities planned for us.
First up, we will head to the Doi Suthep temple, one of the most sacred temples in Chiang Mai. The temple sits on top of a mountain, overlooking the city, and offers breathtaking views. To reach the temple, we will take a scenic 30-minute drive up the winding mountain road.
Our knowledgeable guide will provide us with a brief history of the temple and the significance of its stunning golden pagoda. After learning about the temple, we will have some time to explore on our own. We may choose to walk around the temple grounds, take in the panoramic views, or make an offering to the monks.
Next, we have two exciting options to choose from. The first option is to attend a Thai cooking class. In the class, we will learn how to prepare some of Thailand’s most famous dishes, such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, or Green Curry.
We will start the class with a visit to the local market, where we will have the opportunity to select fresh ingredients and learn about the different herbs and spices used in Thai cuisine. After the market visit, we will head to the cooking school, where we will receive hands-on instruction from experienced local chefs. The class will conclude with a delicious meal, which we will have prepared ourselves!
If cooking is not your thing, don’t worry. We can choose our second option – exploring the most famous night market in Chiang Mai. Located in the heart of the city, the market offers a unique shopping experience where we can find everything from handmade crafts to traditional Thai souvenirs.
In addition to shopping, the night market is a great place to sample local foods and snacks. We can try some of the region’s most famous dishes such as Khao Soi or indulge in some of the delicious Street food like Pad Thai or Mango Sticky Rice. We can also enjoy live music performances and cultural shows at the market.
