7-Day Couple's Itinerary: Exploring Chiang Mai & Surroundings

Day 1: Arrival & Old City Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Chiang Mai and check into your hotel. Take a leisurely walk around the Old City to get a feel for the local atmosphere and architecture.

Afternoon: Visit the renowned Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang temples, both rich in Lanna history and beautiful art.

Evening: Explore the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for souvenirs, local crafts, and street food delights.

Day 2: Doi Suthep & Nature

Morning: Head up to Doi Suthep Temple, perched atop a mountain, offering panoramic views over Chiang Mai and spiritual tranquility.

Afternoon: Visit the nearby Bhubing Palace and enjoy a walk through the lush botanical gardens surrounding the area.

Evening: Relax at a café or spa in the city to unwind after a day of nature and sightseeing.

Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary & Rural Culture

Morning: Spend a meaningful morning at an ethical Elephant Sanctuary, learning about and interacting with these gentle giants responsibly.

Afternoon: Visit a nearby hill tribe village to experience traditional crafts and local culture first-hand.

Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner back in Chiang Mai, perhaps sampling northern Thai specialties such as khao soi.

Day 4: Day Trip to Doi Inthanon National Park

Morning: Early departure to Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand's highest peak, to explore waterfalls and the King and Queen pagodas.

Afternoon: Take scenic hikes around the park’s nature trails and enjoy the cool mountain air and lush forest landscape.

Evening: Return to Chiang Mai for a relaxed evening; consider a night market visit or an early rest.

Day 5: Cooking Class & Artisan Villages

Morning: Participate in a Thai cooking class learning how to prepare beloved local dishes in a hands-on setting.

Afternoon: Visit Borfai handicraft village or San Kamphaeng to admire and purchase traditional Thai silk, pottery, and silverware.

Evening: Experience the lively ambiance of Nimmanhaemin Road with its trendy cafes, bars, and boutiques.

Day 6: Adventure & Relaxation

Morning: Try ziplining or white-water rafting for an adrenaline-filled morning in the surrounding hills of Chiang Mai.

Afternoon: Unwind at a hot spring such as the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, soaking in mineral-rich waters to relax your muscles.

Evening: Enjoy a romantic riverside dinner along the Ping River to end the day beautifully.

Day 7: Leisure & Departure

Morning: Spend your last morning at leisure, perhaps revisiting favorite spots or enjoying a spa treatment.

Afternoon: Do last-minute shopping or a walk in Royal Park Rajapruek to admire exotic flowers and peaceful gardens.

Evening: Depart Chiang Mai with fond memories and a camera full of beautiful moments.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Old City Temples (Wat Phra Singh & Wat Chedi Luang): 3 hours, approx. 200 THB per person
• Doi Suthep Temple and Bhubing Palace: 4 hours, entrance 100 THB per person
• Elephant Sanctuary Visit: 4-5 hours, 1500-2200 THB per person
• Doi Inthanon National Park: Full day, park fee approx. 300 THB per person + transport
• Thai Cooking Class: 4 hours, 1200-1500 THB per person
• Handicraft Villages Tour: 3 hours, free entry, shopping costs vary
• Adventure Activities (Ziplining or Rafting): Half day, approx. 1500-2500 THB per person
• San Kamphaeng Hot Springs: 2-3 hours, approx. 100 THB per person
• Additional meals, local transport, and incidentals: Estimated 4000-5000 THB total
• Total Estimated Cost: Approximately 15,000-20,000 THB per person

Tips

For a shorter trip, focus on the city highlights and Doi Suthep with a day at an elephant sanctuary, condensing days 1 through 3. To extend, consider adding overnight stays in hill tribe villages or expanding your adventure activities over multiple days in the national parks. November is a great time to visit due to pleasant weather, so allow extra days for outdoor exploration and relaxation.