3 Days in Chiang Mai: Culture, Cooking, and Elephants

Nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is the country’s cultural heart — a slower-paced, greener alternative to bustling Bangkok. Known for its ancient temples, bustling night bazaars, and elephant sanctuaries, the city blends heritage with adventure.

Three days in Chiang Mai is perfect for travelers who want to soak in the culture, join a cooking class, and experience Thailand’s wildlife and nature. With Voye Global eSIM, navigating Chiang Mai’s temples, songthaews, and day trips is seamless, giving you more time to focus on what matters: discovering the city.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Old City & Cultural Immersion

Morning (8:30 AM – 12:00 PM)

• Wat Phra Singh & Wat Chedi Luang: Begin with Chiang Mai’s two most famous Old City temples. Wat Phra Singh houses the revered Lion Buddha, while Wat Chedi Luang features a partially-ruined 14th-century stupa.
• Entry: 40–50 THB per temple.

Lunch (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)

• Enjoy Khao Soi, the famous Northern Thai curry noodle soup, at Khao Soi Khun Yai or Khao Soi Maesai.

Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

• Three Kings Monument & Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center: Learn about the city’s history and Lanna culture.
• Stroll through Old City’s quaint streets filled with cafes, art shops, and handicrafts.

Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

• Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: A lively market selling handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
• Try local street food — sai oua (northern sausage), sticky rice, and Thai iced tea.

Optional Night (9:30 PM – late)

• Drink at North Gate Jazz Co-Op, a live music bar popular with travelers.

Day 2: Cooking Class & Temples in the Hills

Morning (8:30 AM – 1:00 PM)

• Join a Thai Cooking Class: Many schools (like Asia Scenic or Thai Farm Cooking School) take you to local markets to pick ingredients, then teach you how to prepare classics like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice.
• Cost: 1,000–1,200 THB ($30–35) with meals included.

Lunch: You’ll eat the food you cook!

Afternoon (2:30 PM – 6:00 PM)

• Doi Suthep Temple (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep): Perched on a mountain overlooking the city, this golden temple is a must-see. Take a red songthaew (shared truck taxi) or Grab. Climb the 300-step naga staircase or take the funicular.
• Entry: 50 THB.
• Tip: Best visited at sunset when the city lights up below.

Evening (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

• Dinner in the Nimmanhaemin area, known for chic cafes and fusion restaurants. Try SP Chicken (famous rotisserie) or local Lanna dishes.

Optional Night (9:30 PM – late)

• Rooftop drinks at Rise Rooftop Bar or live music at Warm Up Cafe, Chiang Mai’s most popular club.

Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary & Nature Escape

Morning (7:00 AM – 1:00 PM)

• Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary like Elephant Nature Park, where rescued elephants roam freely. Activities include feeding and bathing (no riding, which is harmful).
• Cost: ~2,500 THB ($70) including lunch and transport.
• Tip: Book in advance as spots fill quickly.

Lunch: Provided at the sanctuary, usually Thai buffet-style.

Afternoon (2:30 PM – 5:00 PM)

• Return to Chiang Mai and relax. Optional visits:
  • Art in Paradise 3D Museum (interactive fun for photos).
  • Huay Tung Tao Lake for a peaceful nature escape.

Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

• End your trip with the Sunday Walking Street Market (if it’s Sunday) — a kilometer-long street filled with food, crafts, and live performances.
• For dinner, try grilled fish stuffed with lemongrass or spicy Northern-style larb.

How to Travel Around Chiang Mai

• Songthaews (red trucks): Cheap and shared taxis, 30–50 THB per ride.
• Grab App: Reliable for door-to-door transport.
• Scooter Rental: ~250 THB/day if comfortable riding.
• Walking: Old City is compact and walkable.

Food to Try in Chiang Mai

• Khao Soi (curry noodle soup).
• Sai Oua (herbal sausage).
• Nam Prik Ong (spicy tomato chili dip).
• Sticky rice with tamarind sauce.

Staying Connected with Voye Global

Chiang Mai is a city where being connected is essential — from ordering Grab rides to navigating winding streets and booking tours. Instead of hunting for local SIM cards, Voye Global eSIM keeps you online the moment you land in Thailand.

Why Voye Global for Chiang Mai?

• Instant Setup: Buy online, scan a QR code, and connect within minutes.
• 4G/5G Coverage: Works across Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket, and beyond.
• Budget-Friendly: Save up to 75% compared to roaming charges.
• Convenient: No need to swap SIMs or lose your WhatsApp number.
• Travel-Friendly: One eSIM covers multiple countries — perfect if you’re continuing to Laos, Cambodia, or Vietnam.

With Voye, you can focus on cooking classes, temples, and elephant adventures without worrying about finding WiFi.

Health & Safety Tips

• Elephant Sanctuaries: Only visit ethical ones (no rides, no tricks).
• Food: Stick to busy vendors and avoid raw dishes unless at trusted restaurants.
• Weather: Chiang Mai can be cooler at night, especially in the mountains — pack a light jacket.
• Mosquitoes: Use repellent to prevent bites.
• Transport: Helmets are mandatory if renting scooters; police often check.

Budget Breakdown (Per Day for 3 Days)

• Street food meals: 50–100 THB ($2–3)
• Restaurant meals: 200–400 THB ($6–12)
• Songthaew/Grab rides: 30–200 THB per trip
• Mid-range hotel: $35–60 per night
• Cooking class: $30–35
• Elephant sanctuary: $70

FAQs

Is 3 days enough for Chiang Mai?

Yes, it’s perfect for temples, a cooking class, and an elephant sanctuary.

What’s the best way to get to Chiang Mai?

A quick 1-hour flight from Bangkok, or an overnight train (11–13 hours) for scenic travel.

Is Chiang Mai safe for solo travelers?

Very safe, with a welcoming vibe. Just take standard travel precautions.

Can I use credit cards?

Cards are accepted at hotels and malls, but markets and smaller shops are cash-only.

Best time to visit Chiang Mai?

November to February (cool, dry season). Avoid smoky season (Feb–April).

How do I stay connected?

Use Voye Global eSIM for seamless 4G/5G coverage across Thailand.