6 Days Exploring Northern Thailand Itinerary

Begin your second day with a tour from your wishlist: Chiang Mai: Old City and Temples Guided Walking Tour. This tour will take you through some of Chiang Mai's most significant temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh Waramahawihan. Enjoy breakfast at The Larder Cafe & Bar before starting your tour.

After your morning tour, visit the serene Tunnel Temple (Wat Umong). This unique temple features ancient tunnels and tranquil gardens that provide a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. For lunch, stop by Huen Phen, which offers authentic Northern Thai cuisine in a traditional setting.

Spend your evening exploring the famous Saturday and Sunday Walking Street Market, if it's a weekend. These markets are known for their wide variety of local crafts, street food, and live performances. If it's not a weekend, consider visiting Thapae Stadium for some Muay Thai boxing action instead. Enjoy dinner at Ginger & Kafe, which serves innovative Thai dishes in an eclectic environment.

On your third day, take an early morning trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai (approximately 3 hours by car). Start with a visit to the stunning White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), part of your wishlist: From Chiang Mai: White Temple Black House and Blue Temple. The White Temple is renowned for its intricate design and contemporary art influences. Have breakfast en route or upon arrival at Cat 'n' A Cup Cat Cafe in Chiang Rai.

Continue exploring Chiang Rai with visits to other notable temples included in your tour such as Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) and Baan Dam Museum (Black House). These sites offer unique architectural styles that contrast beautifully with each other. For lunch, dine at Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, known for its picturesque riverside setting and delicious menu.

End your day by visiting the tranquil Mae Fah Luang Art & Cultural Park (Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park). This park showcases traditional Lanna architecture amidst beautiful gardens. Afterward, enjoy dinner at Barrab, which offers both Thai cuisine and international dishes in an elegant atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to the Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong. This ancient temple is one of the oldest in Chiang Rai and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The peaceful atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit. Enjoy breakfast at Melt In Your Mouth, which offers delicious pastries and coffee in a charming setting.

In the afternoon, head to the Hilltribe Museum and Education Center. This museum provides an insightful look into the lives and cultures of the various hill tribes in Northern Thailand. It's an excellent opportunity to learn about their traditions, crafts, and way of life. For lunch, dine at Corner Room Cafe, known for its tasty Thai dishes and cozy ambiance.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Oub Kham Museum. This museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts from the Lanna Kingdom and other regional cultures. The intricate displays offer a deep dive into Northern Thailand's rich history. For dinner, head to Lalitta Cafe, which offers a mix of Thai and Western cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Begin your day with an early morning drive from Chiang Rai to Mae Sai (approximately 1.5 hours by car). Start with a visit to Wat Phra That Doi Wao, located near the border with Myanmar. This temple offers panoramic views of both countries and is known for its giant scorpion statue symbolizing protection. Have breakfast at Coffee Time, which serves excellent coffee and light bites.

In the afternoon, explore Mae Sai Market, one of Thailand's busiest border markets. Here you can find everything from local handicrafts to electronics at bargain prices. It's also an excellent place to try some local street food for lunch – don't miss out on trying some Burmese-inspired dishes given Mae Sai's proximity to Myanmar.

End your day by visiting Tham Luang Nang Non Cave, famous for its dramatic limestone formations and recent rescue operation that captured global attention. After exploring the cave, enjoy dinner at The Border View Restaurant, which offers stunning views over the border area along with delicious Thai cuisine.

On your final day, take a scenic drive from Mae Sai to Doi Tung (approximately 1 hour by car). Start with a visit to Doi Tung Royal Villa & Mae Fah Luang Garden (Mountains Discovery:Doi Mae Salong & Doi Tung (Private Tour)). The Royal Villa is beautifully designed with Swiss influences while the gardens are meticulously maintained showcasing vibrant flowers year-round. Have breakfast at Suan Charin, located within the garden premises offering fresh pastries.

Continue exploring Doi Tung by visiting Hall of Inspiration which tells stories about Princess Mother’s life work towards improving local communities' lives through sustainable development projects around this region including reforestation efforts that transformed barren hills into lush landscapes again! For lunch stop by Krua Tamnak serving traditional northern Thai dishes made using locally sourced ingredients ensuring authentic flavors every time!

Conclude your trip with relaxing walk around Arboretum Park before heading back towards Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai depending on travel plans ahead but not before enjoying dinner at Baan Chivit Mai Bakery known not only great food but also supporting social enterprise helping disadvantaged youth gain skills needed succeed future endeavors making perfect end memorable journey across northern Thailand!