Detailed transportation and ticket information 🌿 "Children's Slow Travel in Chiang Mai | Discover the gentle moments of the City of Smiles with your children"

🌿 Chiang Mai Family Slow Travel | Discover the Gentleness of Northern Thailand Between Temples and Laughter

This short family trip departs from Chiang Mai, connecting Northern Thailand's most iconic sights and people along the way.

Though the trip was short, it allowed us to rediscover the warmth of slow travel—in the golden glow of temples, amid the bustling markets, and amid the laughter of children, we discovered the tranquility and warmth of Chiang Mai.

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🎨 [One Day in Chiang Rai: Blue Temple, White Temple, and Black Temple]

After a three-hour drive north to Chiang Rai in the morning, we arrived in Chiang Rai. Three distinct temples make up this classic day trip.

• Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): Famous for its dreamy blue hues and golden carvings, admission is free. The stunning blue-illuminated Buddha statues inside are a favorite photo spot for many travelers.

• White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): A Chiang Rai landmark, designed by artist Chalermchai, the pure white, hollowed-out structure evokes a dreamlike atmosphere. Admission is approximately 100 Thai baht (approximately NT$90), and children are free.
• Baan Dam Museum: Artist Thawan Duchanee's creative park features black wood carvings and animal skeletons. Admission is approximately 80 Thai baht.

🚌 Transportation
You can choose to drive, charter a car, or join a day tour from Chiang Mai. For families, chartering a car is recommended, costing approximately 3,000-4,000 Thai baht per day, offering flexible itineraries and convenient rest stops.

🌟 Online Reviews
The White Temple has a Google rating of approximately 4.7 (over 40,000 reviews). Travelers generally describe it as a "dreamlike art palace." The Blue Temple is known for its "tranquility and fantasy." The Black Temple is known as the "black philosophy museum."

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🛕 [Chiang Mai Culture and Markets: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai Market, and Night Market]

After returning to Chiang Mai, we visited Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
This temple is one of Chiang Mai's most iconic, nestled on a hillside, offering panoramic views of the ancient city.
You can either take a bus or climb the 306 stone steps to reach the summit. Admission is 60 baht per adult, free for children.
The golden stupa gleams in the sun, and the sound of bells echoes in the mountain breeze, creating a sense of tranquility and solemnity.

Then we strolled through Chiang Mai Market and Chiang Mai Night Market. Fresh fruit, local spices, and handmade goods can be purchased at the market. The night market is a joyous occasion for family trips—don't miss the street-side grilled chicken skewers, mango sticky rice, and coconut ice cream. The children's laughter as they ran among the stalls became the most authentic souvenirs.

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🍴 [Ugo Restaurant & Thai Craft Beer Bar]

After a day of exploring, we chose to enjoy dinner at the highly-regarded Ugo Seafood Restaurant in the Old City.

It's known for its fresh lobster, grilled fish, and Thai beer, with generous portions and a relaxed atmosphere.

With a Google rating of 4.6⭐/over 3,000 reviews, it's been listed by many travelers as "Chiang Mai's Most Recommended Family-Friendly Restaurant."

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🚗 [Transportation Overview]
• Chiang Mai → Chiang Rai Day Trip: The drive takes approximately 3 hours each way. Chartering a car or joining a day tour is recommended for families with children, as it's most convenient.
• City Transportation: Use the Grab app for transparent pricing and comfortable air-conditioning.
• Airport Transfer: Chiang Mai Airport is only about a 15-minute drive from the Old City.

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💡 Tips
• Best Travel Season: November to February offers the most comfortable weather, perfect for a family trip.
• Recommended Internet: TrueMove H or AIS eSIM for stable internet speed and good signal coverage throughout the area.
• Budget: A one-day car rental, including fuel, costs approximately 3,500-4,000 THB, with meals costing approximately 200-400 THB per person.
• Recommended Stay: 3-4 days in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai is just right, with a moderate pace.

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💬 Traveler's Review

This family trip to Chiang Mai wasn't just about sightseeing; it was a journey of shared discovery with my children.
In the light and shadow of the White Temple, I saw the purity of art; in the laughter of the night market, I felt the warmth of life.
Chiang Mai encourages us to slow down and learn to cherish the most ordinary moments of beauty during our travels.