Discover Chiang Mai in 3–4 Days: What to see and do

Wandering ancient temples, tasting Thai cuisine, soaking in mountain air, and exploring famous night markets - Chiang Mai in 3 or 4 days offers a perfect blend of culture, flavor, and serenity. From the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep perched high in the mountains to the bustling streets of the Old City, there’s a rich history waiting to be explored. With so much to see and do, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this charming city without confusion.

Ready to start your Chiang Mai adventure? Let’s dive into the must-see spots and experiences with Hanoi Voyages!

Chiang Mai - A must-visit destination in Thailand

Nestled in the mountainous region of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a perfect blend of cultural charm, natural beauty, and modern comforts. Known as the “Rose of the North,” this city is famous for its ancient temples, traditional markets, and relaxed atmosphere.

Why visit Chiang Mai for your trip to Thailand?

Cultural heritage: Home to over 300 temples, including the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a hill with stunning views over the city.	Nature & adventure: Explore nearby jungles, waterfalls, and elephant sanctuaries, or take part in hiking and ziplining in the surrounding mountains.

Delicious cuisine: Try signature northern Thai dishes like khao soi (curried noodle soup) and enjoy cooking classes with local chefs.	Art & festivals: Chiang Mai is a creative hub with art galleries, cafes, and Thailand festivals like Yi Peng Lantern festival, where thousands of lanterns light up the sky

Best time to visit Chiang Mai

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the dry season, from November to February. Temperatures are pleasant, with cool days and cool nights. Avoid the rainy season (May to October), which can make travel more difficult.

Special events are also ideal for experiencing the city at its best:

• Loy Krathong & Yi Peng Lantern festival (November): This is one of the most magical times to visit Chiang Mai. The city is filled with floating lanterns, and there are spectacular celebrations and ceremonies at temples.

• Songkran festival (April): A fun and chaotic time to visit Chiang Mai for water fights and cultural celebrations.

You can also read: Discover Thailand’s Songkran festival 2025

How to get to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is easily accessible by plane, train, bus, or car, offering multiple travel options for those planning to explore Chiang Mai in 3-4 days. Whether you prefer a quick flight, a scenic train ride, or a road trip through the countryside, there are multiple ways to reach this beautiful northern city.

By plane

The quickest way to reach Chiang Mai is by plane. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) offers both domestic and international flights. You can take a direct flight from Bangkok (approximately 1 hour) or from other major Thai cities like Phuket and Krabi. Additionally, several international flights connect Chiang Mai to other destinations across Asia.

By train

Taking the train from Bangkok is a scenic and relaxing option, especially for those who enjoy long journeys. Trains depart from Hua Lamphong Station and take about 11 - 14 hours to reach Chiang Mai. You can choose from daytime or overnight options, with choices like second-class air-conditioned or sleeper trains.

By bus

Direct buses also connect Bangkok and Chiang Mai, with the journey taking around 10 to 12 hours. These buses offer different levels of comfort, ranging from air-conditioned options to more basic services. While it’s a budget-friendly choice, it’s not as quick as flying.

By car or motorbike

For adventure enthusiasts looking to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car or motorbike is a great option. The drive from Bangkok takes around 9 hours, allowing you to stop at charming towns and villages along the route for a more immersive experience.

📌 Other information: Additionally, you can reach Chiang Mai by plane from Vietnam, Laos, or Cambodia with either direct flights or flights that stopover in Bangkok. Flight durations range from 1 to 3 hours, providing a quick and convenient way to get to the city.

How to get around Thailand? Check out the details: Transportation in Thailand: How to get around easily for visitors

Visit Chiang Mai in 3 or 4 days: What to see and do

Whether you have 3 days or 4, Chiang Mai offers a perfect balance of cultural, natural, and historical experiences. Here’s how to make the most of your Chiang Mai in 3-4 days experience in this beautiful city, no matter how long your visit.

Explore Chiang Mai in 3 days

Looking to explore Chiang Mai in 3-4 days? This vibrant city offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure, all within a short trip. Firstly, what can you expect in Chiang Mai for 3 days? Let’s find out!

Day 1: Discovery of the city and the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple

Start your day by exploring the old city, beginning with the ancient city wall, moat, and gates. Visit Chiang Mai's most stunning temples, including Wat Prah Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang

↪ Next, enjoy a cyclo ride through charming streets lined with traditional houses, before heading to the bustling Warorot Market for a taste of local life.

↪ In the afternoon, visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai's iconic pagoda. Perched over 1,000 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and houses a beautiful Chedi.

↪ Finish your day with a tour of the nearby craft villages, where you can witness the artistry of lacquerware, silk weaving, umbrella making, wood carving, and goldsmithing.

Visit more majestic Thailand’s temples on this blog: Top 10 must-visit temples in Thailand for travelers

Day 2: Hike to Karen village and overnight stay with locals

In the morning, depart by local truck heading north from Chiang Mai.

↪ On the way, make a brief stop at the Mae Malai market to purchase food and vegetables for the trek.

↪ Continue the journey and stop at Mok Fah waterfall to take a refreshing swim and relax. Then, head towards Karen Village.

↪ Embark on a 3.5-hour walk to another Karen hill tribe village, Bann Pa Kao Lam, where you can explore the village and interact with the locals to learn about their traditional lifestyle.

↪ A highlight of the day is the unique experience of caring for elephants for 40 minutes - feeding them and bathing them in the river.

↪ The day usually ends with a cozy campfire, filled with entertainment such as jokes, games, and funny stories led by the guide.

Day 3: Exploring the Lahu Tribe Village

Spend the day discovering the Lahu tribe village. The Lahu people are known for their distinctive clothing, with the Black, Yellow, and Shehleh subgroups being the most notable, each identifiable by the color of their traditional garments.

Start with a 1.5-hour trek through the jungle to reach the river. From there, enjoy a 30-minute bamboo rafting ride that will take you to an elephant camp.

↪ Once at the camp, you'll have the chance to interact with the elephants - feeding and bathing them in the river. Enjoy some unforgettable moments with the elephants while capturing memories with photos (Note: Riding the elephants is not part of the experience).

↪ Afterward, continue your adventure with bamboo rafting down the river, heading towards the Lahu tribe village. Once there, immerse yourself in the unique culture and lifestyle of the Lahu people.

↪ The day ends with a 2-hour bamboo rafting session, followed by a visit to a Shan village, before making your way back to Chiang Mai.

Explore Chiang Mai in 4 days

Exploring Chiang Mai in 4 days is the perfect way to experience the city's rich culture, stunning temples, and beautiful landscapes. With this Chiang Mai itinerary, you'll get to enjoy everything from ancient architecture to impressive nature, all while immersing yourself in the local traditions.

Day 1, 2, 3: The schedule is the same as above

Day 4: Cooking class and cruise on the Mae Ping River

Start your day with a delightful cooking class at Khrua Baan Thai Chiang Mai. This Thai cooking workshop, conducted in French, offers a fantastic opportunity to learn the tricks behind Thailand’s renowned cuisine. Enjoy a friendly and family-like atmosphere as you master 4 to 5 recipes, depending on the menu for the day. You'll also receive a free recipe booklet to recreate the dishes at home.

• Schedule: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM

• Group size: 2 to 6 people

In the afternoon, embark on a relaxing two-hour boat cruise along the Mae Ping River. As you sail, take in the picturesque views of traditional teak houses and lush greenery that line the riverbanks. It’s a peaceful way to unwind and enjoy Chiang Mai’s natural beauty.

Join us on a journey to Chiang Mai to explore its rich cultural heritage. To make your trip even more memorable, you can explore our carefully designed tours with Hanoi Voyages below

	Thailand family tour 14 days: Discover the land of smiles Thailand family tour 14 days: Discover Ayutthaya, the Northern magic rich culture, the nature of Khao Sok and the beautiful Khao Lak beach
	Paradise trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai 14 days Paradise trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai 14 days: Explore from the cultural treasures of Bangkok to the scenic beauty of Chiang Mai
	Thailand tour 14 days From Northern to Southern Charms Thailand Tour 14 Days: From Northern Charms of Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai to the Southern in Koh Yao Yai and Phuket

In addition to our pre-designed tours, we can tailor-make trips that perfectly suit your needs. Don't wait any longer - get in touch with us now to plan an unforgettable journey with the best services just for you!

Some notes for visiting Chiang Mai in 3 or 4 days

Planning to visit Chiang Mai in 3 - 4 days? Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your time and enjoy the city's top sights, from temples to nature spots, with ease.

• Prepare for the heat: Chiang Mai can get hot and humid, especially from March to May. Bring light clothing, sunscreen, and a water bottle to stay cool and hydrated.

• Visit temples early: To avoid crowds, visit famous temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep early in the morning when it's cooler and quieter.

• Explore local markets: Chiang Mai's markets, like the Sunday Walking Street, are great for local produce and souvenirs. Don’t forget to negotiate for the best prices!

• Respect local customs: When visiting temples, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Also, remember to remove your shoes before entering.

• Venture beyond the city: Take time to explore the mountains and nature parks around Chiang Mai to experience a different side of the region: visit the Elephant Nature Park or take a trek in the Chiang Dao mountains to experience the natural beauty of the region

By following these Chiang Mai travel tips, you can enjoy a memorable and enriching experience in this beautiful city.

Exploring Chiang Mai in 3-4 days is the perfect way to experience its rich culture, scenic nature, and vibrant local life. Whether you're wandering through cultural sites, joining a cooking class, or venturing into nearby tribal villages, every moment promises something special.

Make the most of your adventure with Hanoi Voyages and let us help you create unforgettable memories in Northern Thailand.