Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Chiang Mai

Whispers of the Past and Threads of the Future

Today, our Chiang Mai adventure took us on a journey through time and tradition. We explored ancient ruins, wandered through peaceful temples, and even got a glimpse into the intricate art of Thai silk making. It was a day filled with cultural immersion, delicious food, and moments of quiet reflection, a perfect blend of experiences that made me fall even more in love with this captivating city.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hummus Chiang Mai. I had read so much about it, and it was just a short walk from our hotel. It was a delightful start to the day. The creamy hummus, with its various toppings, was absolutely divine. Sofia, surprisingly, was a big fan of the pita bread, happily dipping it into the hummus. Hans and I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the strong coffee, fueling us up for a day of exploration. I overheard someone saying that it was the best Middle Eastern food they had outside of Israel, and I could believe it. I must remember to try making hummus when we get back to Berlin, although I doubt it will taste as good as this.


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

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

Our first stop was Wat Umong Suan Putthatham, a temple unlike any I’ve ever seen. The name itself, meaning 'Tunnel Temple,' hinted at the unique experience that awaited us. Nestled in a serene, forested area, the temple exuded an aura of tranquility the moment we arrived. The air was filled with the scent of incense and the soft rustling of leaves, creating a peaceful atmosphere that immediately calmed our senses. We wandered through the ancient tunnels, marveling at the centuries-old brickwork and the Buddha images placed within. The tunnels, built in the late 13th century, were designed to provide a quiet space for meditation, and I could certainly feel that sense of peace as I walked through them. Sofia was fascinated by the 'talking trees,' trees with Buddhist teachings inscribed on plaques in both Thai and English. It was a wonderful way to introduce her to the wisdom of Buddhism in a fun and engaging way. The temple grounds also featured a large pond where we fed the fish and turtles, another highlight for Sofia. It was incredible to think that King Mangrai, the founder of Chiang Mai, had established this temple as a sanctuary for monks and a center for spiritual growth. It felt like stepping back in time, connecting with the rich history and spiritual heritage of the Lanna Kingdom. I made a mental note to research more about King Mangrai when I got back to the hotel.


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

Next on our itinerary was Wiang Kum Kam, the 'Underground Ancient City.' This historical site, once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, was abandoned due to repeated flooding and remained buried for centuries. Exploring Wiang Kum Kam felt like embarking on an archaeological dig. We rented a horse carriage, a traditional way to tour the site, and clip-clopped our way through the ruins. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the city's history, its rise and fall, and its eventual rediscovery. We saw the remains of ancient temples, city walls, and irrigation systems, all testaments to the ingenuity and resilience of the Lanna people. It was humbling to walk through these ruins, imagining what life must have been like in this once-thriving city. Sofia enjoyed the horse carriage ride, waving to the locals as we passed by. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the historical significance of this place, a reminder of the impermanence of human endeavors and the enduring power of nature. Hans was particularly interested in the engineering aspects of the ancient city, discussing the challenges of building and maintaining a city in a flood-prone area.


Explore Wiang Kum Kam, an ancient city near Chiang Mai, where history, culture, and stunning ruins come together in a tranquil setting.

After a morning of exploring ancient sites, we were ready for lunch. We headed to The Swan Burmese Cuisine, a restaurant recommended by several locals. The Swan turned out to be a culinary delight. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, decorated with Burmese art and artifacts. We ordered a variety of dishes, including Mohinga, a traditional Burmese fish soup with rice noodles, and Tea Leaf Salad, a unique and flavorful salad with fermented tea leaves, tomatoes, nuts, and crispy beans. The flavors were bold and exotic, a delicious blend of sweet, sour, and savory. Sofia, surprisingly, enjoyed the Mohinga, slurping up the noodles with gusto. Hans and I savored every bite, appreciating the authentic Burmese flavors and the use of fresh, local ingredients. It was a welcome change from the usual Thai cuisine, a chance to explore the culinary diversity of the region. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, explaining the dishes and offering recommendations. I was impressed by their knowledge and passion for Burmese cuisine. I must try to recreate the Tea Leaf Salad at home; it was so unique and flavorful. I wonder if I can find fermented tea leaves in Berlin?


Experience authentic Burmese cuisine in Chiang Mai at The Swan – where traditional flavors meet modern hospitality.

In the afternoon, we visited Thai Silk Village Co.,LTD., where we witnessed the intricate process of silk production, from the silkworms spinning their cocoons to the weavers creating beautiful fabrics. It was fascinating to see the skill and artistry involved in each step of the process. We learned about the different types of silk, the natural dyes used to color the fabrics, and the traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations. Sofia enjoyed watching the silkworms and trying her hand at spinning silk threads. I was impressed by the quality and craftsmanship of the silk products, from scarves and shawls to dresses and tapestries. I couldn't resist buying a beautiful silk scarf as a souvenir, a reminder of our visit to Chiang Mai and the rich cultural heritage of Thailand. Hans bought a silk tie for his father, a practical and elegant gift. I think I might sign up for a silk weaving workshop when we come back to Chiang Mai; it seems like such a rewarding and creative activity. I'll have to check if they offer classes for beginners.


Explore the artistry of silk weaving at Thai Silk Village, a cultural gem in Chiang Mai, showcasing exquisite handicrafts and fashion accessories.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Paak Dang Riverside Restaurant for dinner. Located on the banks of the Ping River, the restaurant offered stunning views of the water and the city skyline. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with live music and twinkling lights creating a magical ambiance. We ordered a selection of Thai dishes, including Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum Soup, all bursting with flavor and spice. The food was delicious, the service was excellent, and the views were breathtaking. Sofia enjoyed watching the boats go by on the river, pointing out the colorful lights and the reflections on the water. Hans and I savored the romantic atmosphere, enjoying the delicious food and the beautiful scenery. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and cultural immersion. I made a mental note to come back to Paak Dang on our next visit to Chiang Mai; it's such a special and memorable place.


Discover delicious Thai cuisine and live music at Paak Dang Riverside Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration by the river.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the rich culture and history of Chiang Mai with my family. From the ancient temples to the bustling markets, from the delicious food to the warm hospitality, every moment was a treasure. As we head into our final day tomorrow, I'm excited to explore more of what this amazing city has to offer. Tomorrow we plan to visit Art in Paradise Chiang Mai and the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center, followed by some last-minute souvenir shopping at the Mosaic Market Chiang Mai. I am looking forward to seeing Sofia's reaction to the 3D art at Art in Paradise! I am also keen to learn more about the local art scene at the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center. I am sure it will be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment and joy. Chiang Mai has truly captured my heart, and I know that this is a trip that we will cherish for years to come. The memories we've made, the experiences we've shared, and the bonds we've strengthened will stay with us long after we return to Berlin.

And who knows, maybe one day we'll even decide to pack up our lives and move to Chiang Mai permanently. It certainly wouldn't be the worst idea in the world.