The ‘Rose of the North’ is the second largest city in Thailand, but it has a quiet and laid back feel that’s worlds apart from bustling, crowded Bangkok. With over 300 Buddhist temples dotted all around the city, Chiang Mai really is a historic paradise. During this private tour you’ll discover some highlights of this beautiful and vibrant city.
- Warorot Market (Kad Luang) - Warorot Market, locally known as ‘Kad Luang’, is the most well-known market of Chiang Mai and the place where the locals get their delicacies. The market is best known for selling local products, especially specialties from the north. In addition to food, you will also find clothing, ceramics, fabrics, flowers and every conceivable item that can be sold at a market.
Total time includes traveling time.
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Wat Chiang Man - Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and goes back all the way to the founding of the city in 1296. When King Mengrai decided to build a new city and make it the new capital of the Lanna Kingdom, he build the Wat Chiang Man as the first temple of the new city.
The temple holds several very old and important Buddha images like the Phra Sae Tang Khamani. This small Buddha image is carved from quartz crystal, and it is therefore also known as the Crystal Buddha. It is not known exactly how old it is, but it is believed to have belonged to Chama Thewi, Queen of Hariphunchai in the 8th century.
Total time includes traveling time.
- Three Kings Monument - We make a short stop at the Three Kings Monument, three bronze statues dedicated to King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Mai, King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai and King Ngam Muang of Phayao. This monument has become an iconic image of Chiang Mai and can be seen replicated in various forms all around the city.
Total time includes traveling time.
- Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara - Wat Chedi Luang is an impressive temple ruin. The construction of the temple lasted from 1391 to 1475. Although the temple collapsed in 1545 due to an earthquake, it was for centuries the tallest building in Chiang Mai.
Total times includes traveling time.
- Wat Phra Singh - Wat Phra Singh was built in 1345 and is named for the Buddha image it housed in 1367, the Phra Singh (Lion Buddha). It is an important temple and a major monastery, housing 700 friendly monks who often approach tourists to practice their English.
Total time includes traveling time.
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep - Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, considered to be one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in Thailand. The temple can be reached via the so-called ‘dragon staircase’, a staircase with more than 300 steps flanked by a ‘Naga’: a mythical serpent with seven heads. Instead of walking to the top, you can also take the cable car.
Once upstairs you will be flooded with statues, pagodas, shrines, rows of bronze bells, a large gong and Buddhist art. The ‘chedi’ covered with gold-colored copper plates is the most sacred part of the temple grounds. A chedi, also called stupa or pagoda, is a conical structure in which sacred relics are kept.
Overlooking Chiang Mai from its lofty perch, 1053 meters above sea level, the temple is best visited on days free of cloud or heat haze; the view of the city, and the Ping valley beyond, is breathtaking.
Total time includes traveling time from the city (approx. 35 minutes one way; depending on traffic situation) and lunch break.
- Transportation by airconditioned vehicle (including pick up from hotels in the city)
- Drinking water and snacks
- English speaking guide
- All entrance fees
- Lunch
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities for driver and guide (not mandatory)
- Remember that temples are sacred places and you must dress appropriately. Shoulders and knees need to be covered for both men and women. No sleeveles shirts, leggings, ripped jeans, slippers (flip-flops), or revealing tops.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
