Family Adventure in Chiang Mai: A Cultural Exploration

A Day of Discoveries and Farewell Chiang Mai

Our final day in Chiang Mai was bittersweet. While I was sad to leave this beautiful city, I was also filled with excitement about the memories we had created. Today was all about soaking in the last bits of Chiang Mai's rich culture and vibrant atmosphere before heading back to Heidelberg.

We started our day with breakfast at Mr. KAI Restaurant. It was a bustling little spot, and I was immediately drawn to the aroma of spices and the friendly chatter of locals and tourists alike. I opted for the Khao Soi, a Northern Thai specialty, while Thomas and Leela enjoyed some classic Thai-style omelets. The Khao Soi was creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious – the perfect way to kick off our day. Mr. KAI Restaurant is indeed a must-visit for anyone eager to explore the rich tapestry of Thai cuisine.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at Mr. KAI Restaurant in Chiang Mai – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

With our bellies full, our first stop was Wat Chedi Luang. This ancient temple is located right in the center of Chiang Mai. As we walked through the temple grounds, I was struck by the sheer scale of the chedi, even in its partially ruined state. The temple dates back to 1441 and was once home to the Emerald Buddha. Although the original is now in Bangkok, a jade replica fills the eastern niche, and it was beautiful. Leela was fascinated by the elephant carvings that adorned the base of the chedi, and Thomas, ever the history buff, was engrossed in reading about the temple's past. The temple grounds are beautiful, and it was a perfect spot to enjoy the Chiang Mai weather in January, which is typically cool and dry. It’s definitely a must-see for anyone visiting Chiang Mai.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Wat Chedi Luang, a must-visit Buddhist temple in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Next on our list was the Three Kings Monument. The monument commemorates King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Mai, King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai, and King Ngam Muang of Phayao. The three kings are considered the founding fathers of the Lanna Kingdom. The monument was designed and cast by national artist Kaimook Chuto to commemorate the founding of the city. It was completed in 1983 and officially opened in 1984. It is a popular spot for locals to pay their respects, and we saw many people leaving offerings of flowers and incense. Leela was curious about the kings and their history, so I tried my best to explain their significance in a way that a seven-year-old could understand. The area around the monument is a hub of cultural activity, and it was interesting to see the blend of tradition and modernity.


Experience the rich history of Chiang Mai at the iconic Three Kings Monument, a tribute to the legendary rulers of the Lanna Kingdom.

After soaking in the history at the Three Kings Monument, we decided to grab some lunch. We headed to GINGER FARM kitchen at ONENIMMAN Chiangmai. The restaurant is known for its organic and locally sourced ingredients, and the ambiance was charming, with a rustic-chic vibe. I ordered the Pad Thai, while Thomas went for a traditional Northern Thai curry. Leela, always a fan of noodles, happily devoured a plate of stir-fried noodles with chicken. GINGER FARM kitchen is Michelin-rated and didn't disappoint. The rainbow Pad Thai is a must-try. The location is easy to find and the atmosphere is very inviting. The staff was attentive and the service was professional.


Discover authentic Thai cuisine with a modern twist at Ginger Farm Kitchen in One Nimman, Chiang Mai – where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.

With our appetites satisfied, we made our way to Tha Phae Gate. This iconic gate is one of the main entrances to the old city and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. As we approached the gate, we were greeted by the sight of pigeons fluttering around, street vendors selling souvenirs, and tourists snapping photos. I couldn't resist taking a few photos myself, capturing the vibrant energy of the place. Tha Phae Gate is always the most happening place in Chiang Mai during festivals. The gate has been rebuilt and renovated in parts with modern bricks. The ancient sites, monuments, and Buddhist temples have been restored and refurbished so that they would function as a living heritage that continues to serve its surrounding communities in many traditional ways. It’s truly a blend of the old and the new.


Discover the historical charm of Tha Phae Gate, a must-visit landmark in Chiang Mai, rich in culture, architecture, and local vibrancy.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to experience a bit of Chiang Mai's nightlife. We found ourselves at Roots Rock Reggae Chaingmai, a bar known for its live reggae music and laid-back atmosphere. While reggae might seem out of place in Thailand, it was surprisingly fitting. The music was infectious, and the crowd was a mix of locals and tourists, all swaying to the rhythm. I ordered a Chang beer, Thomas opted for a local whiskey, and Leela sipped on a fruit juice. It was a fun and relaxed way to end our final day in Chiang Mai.


Experience the vibrant fusion of Thai cuisine and reggae beats at Roots Rock Reggae in Chiang Mai, a must-visit for food and music lovers.

Reflecting on our time in Chiang Mai, I realized how much this city had captivated me. From the ancient temples to the bustling markets, from the delicious food to the friendly people, Chiang Mai had offered us a glimpse into a world that was both exotic and familiar. I was grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, and I knew that the memories we had created here would stay with us for a long time.

As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I am filled with gratitude for this incredible journey. Chiang Mai, you have stolen a piece of my heart, and I know I will be back someday.

Our flight leaves early, so we'll be heading straight to the airport in the morning. It's always a little sad to leave a place you've fallen in love with, but I'm also excited to get back to Heidelberg and share our adventures with friends and family. Plus, I'm already planning our next Evendo adventure! Maybe somewhere closer to home next time, like exploring the Black Forest or taking a road trip through the Bavarian Alps. But for now, it's time to say goodbye to Chiang Mai and hello to new adventures.

The weather in Chiang Mai in January is generally cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C. It can be especially chilly in the evenings and early mornings, so bringing some warm clothing is a good idea. The wind direction in Chiang Mai during January is predominantly out of the east from January 1 to January 12, the south from January 12 to January 28, and the west from January 28 to January 31. I was glad I packed a light jacket for the evenings.

The Chiang Mai Countdown 2025 event was held from December 31, 2024 to January 1, 2025 at Thapae Gate. We just missed it, but it sounds like it would have been a fun way to celebrate the New Year.

It's been an incredible week, filled with so many amazing experiences. From the bustling night markets to the serene temples, Chiang Mai has something for everyone. I'm so grateful that I was able to share this adventure with Thomas and Leela. As an Indian expat living in Germany, it's always a joy to explore new cultures and share them with my family. Until next time, Chiang Mai!

Before heading to Roots Rock Reggae Chaingmai we had a quick stop at a local store, since I forgot to pack an umbrella and an extra memory card for the camera. It would have been useful to have them during the week.

The HOP Chiang Mai Art and Music Festival takes place from September 20-29 at Tha Phae Gate and the Three Kings Monument area. It would be a great time to visit Chiang Mai and experience the local arts and music scene.