Family Adventure in Chiang Mai: Exploring Culture and Cuisine

Chiang Mai's Spiritual Embrace

Today, my family and I embarked on a journey that took us from the soaring heights of a national park to the hushed depths of ancient tunnels. It was a day filled with cultural immersion, natural beauty, and a profound sense of peace, leaving us with memories we'll cherish long after we've left this enchanting city.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe de Thaan Aoan. Aoife had been eager to try their smoothie bowls, and I was in the mood for something familiar, so I opted for a bacon and cheese sandwich, along with a strong Americano. It was the perfect fuel for our upcoming adventures. The cafe had a lovely, cozy atmosphere, and we enjoyed the mix of Thai and Western dishes available. It got quite busy around 9 AM, so we were glad we arrived early. It reminded me of the bustling cafes back in Dublin, a comforting thought as we prepared for a day of exploring.


Experience the best breakfast and dessert delights at Cafe de Thaan Aoan in Chiang Mai - where flavors meet tradition.

Ascending Doi Suthep

Our first destination was Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. The drive up the winding mountain road was an experience in itself, with lush greenery on either side and glimpses of Chiang Mai below. The air grew cooler as we ascended, a welcome change from the warmth of the city. I was reminded of hikes in the Wicklow Mountains back home, though the landscape here was undeniably more exotic. The park itself is vast, covering over 260 square kilometers, and offers a haven for nature lovers. The weather was mild, perfect for exploring, with temperatures ranging from a cool 14°C in the mornings to a pleasant 27°C during the day.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand, a perfect blend of nature and heritage.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. – Lao Tzu

Of course, the highlight of Doi Suthep is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the iconic temple perched on the mountainside. We chose to climb the 309 steps of the Naga staircase, flanked by intricately sculpted serpent guardians. It was a bit of a climb, but the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top was well worth it. Róisín, ever the energetic one, practically skipped up the stairs, while Aoife and I took a more leisurely pace. The temple itself was breathtaking, its golden chedi gleaming in the sunlight. The soft sound of temple bells and the chanting of monks created a serene atmosphere. The panoramic views of Chiang Mai from the temple terrace were simply stunning. We spent some time wandering around, taking in the sights and sounds, and soaking up the spiritual ambiance. I made sure to capture plenty of photos, wanting to preserve the memory of this special place.

A Taste of Home (and the Middle East)

After descending from Doi Suthep, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to Hummus Chiang Mai for lunch. As much as I love Thai food, sometimes I crave the familiar flavors of the Middle East. This restaurant was a delightful surprise. We ordered hummus, falafel, and pita bread. The hummus was exceptionally creamy, and the falafels were perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It was a taste of home, a reminder of the flavors I grew up with in Malaysia. Aoife and Róisín, who were less familiar with Middle Eastern cuisine, thoroughly enjoyed the meal as well. We even got complimentary pink lemonade and baklava, a sweet and thoughtful touch. It was a satisfying and comforting meal that prepared us for the afternoon's adventures.


Experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors at Hummus Chiang Mai - where deliciousness meets tradition in every bite.

Exploring the Tunnels of Wat Umong

Our next stop was Wat Umong Suan Putthatham, an ancient temple known for its unique network of tunnels. This temple, over 700 years old, was founded by King Mengrai in the 13th century and has served as a meditation site for monks for centuries. As we entered the temple grounds, we were immediately struck by the tranquility of the place. The lush greenery, the ancient trees, and the peaceful atmosphere created a sense of calm and serenity. We wandered through the tunnels, marveling at the architecture and the history of the place. The tunnels were designed to provide a peaceful space for meditation, and I could certainly feel the sense of peace and quiet as we explored them. There were inscriptions of Buddhist teachings on stone slabs, adding to the charm and historical significance of the temple. We spent some time in the Suan Puthatham, a lush green area perfect for relaxation and meditation. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Experience the serene beauty of Wat Umong Suan Putthatham, a historic Buddhist temple offering tranquility and rich spiritual heritage in Chiang Mai.

Wat Umong offered a different kind of spiritual experience compared to Doi Suthep. While Doi Suthep was grand and awe-inspiring, Wat Umong was intimate and introspective. It was a place to reflect, to meditate, and to connect with the past. I found myself thinking about my own spiritual journey, about the importance of finding peace and balance in life. Aoife, a librarian by profession, was particularly fascinated by the history and the architecture of the temple, while Róisín enjoyed exploring the tunnels and taking photos of the serene surroundings.

A Night Out in Chiang Mai

As evening approached, we decided to experience Chiang Mai's nightlife. We dropped Róisín off at Zoe in Yellow, a popular bar known for its lively atmosphere and music. While I'm not usually one for crowded bars, I knew that Róisín would enjoy the energy and the opportunity to meet other young travelers. Aoife and I opted for a quieter evening, heading to Kiti Panit for dinner. This restaurant, housed in a beautifully restored 1880s mansion, offers a modern take on traditional Lanna cuisine. The ambiance was elegant and charming, with antiques and old photographs adorning the walls. The staff was well-trained and attentive. For dinner, we enjoyed some delicious Thai dishes, including grilled chicken and mango sticky rice. The flavors were intense and complex, a true culinary delight. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Chiang Mai's cultural and natural treasures.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chiang Mai at Zoe in Yellow, a lively night club and bar offering great music, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.


Discover authentic Thai cuisine at Kiti Panit in Chiang Mai - where tradition meets flavor in a historic setting.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we picked up Róisín from Zoe in Yellow. She was buzzing with excitement, having met some new friends and danced the night away. While the music wasn't exactly my cup of tea, I was happy to see her having a good time. As we drove back, I reflected on the day's adventures. We had experienced so much in just one day, from the soaring heights of Doi Suthep to the hushed depths of Wat Umong. We had tasted delicious food, explored ancient temples, and immersed ourselves in the local culture. It was a day that I will always remember, a day that reminded me of the beauty and diversity of this world. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Royal Park Rajapruek and the Lanna Traditional House Museum, followed by some shopping at Somphet Market. I'm already looking forward to another day of discovery in Chiang Mai.

This trip has been a wonderful opportunity to share my love of travel and culture with my family. It's a reminder that no matter where we go, the most important thing is the people we share the experience with. And as we continue our journey through Chiang Mai, I'm grateful for the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.