Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Chiang Mai

Temples and Treasures of Chiang Mai

Today was a day of exploring the spiritual and artistic heart of Chiang Mai. From ancient temples to vibrant art, every corner held a new discovery for Sofia, Hans and me. It’s amazing how much history and culture is packed into this city.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Its Good Kitchen. I had read some great reviews of the place, and it certainly lived up to its name. Sofia enjoyed some pancakes while Hans and I tucked into some delicious Thai-style omelets. Fuelled up, we set off to explore our first temple of the day, Wat Chedi Luang.

Wat Chedi Luang was truly impressive. The sheer scale of the ancient chedi was breathtaking, and Sofia was fascinated by the crumbling brickwork and the elephant statues that adorned the base. Even though parts of it were damaged centuries ago, it still has a majestic presence. We walked around the temple grounds, taking in the intricate details of the architecture and the serene atmosphere. There was a palpable sense of history, and I found myself reflecting on the generations of people who had come here to worship. The clear blue skies and cool temperatures made it a perfect morning for exploration. It's amazing that even in January, Chiang Mai offers such pleasant weather, making it ideal for wandering around these historical sites.


Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Wat Chedi Luang, a majestic Buddhist temple at the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

Next, we ventured to Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, another of Chiang Mai's most famous temples. This temple was just as beautiful, but with a different feel. The buildings were more ornate, with intricate carvings and gleaming gold accents. Sofia was particularly taken with the Viharn Lai Kham, where the revered Phra Buddha Sihing image is enshrined. The interior was stunning, with red lacquer and gold leaf patterns that seemed to glow in the soft light. I appreciated the blend of Lanna, Sri Lankan, and Burmese influences in the architecture; it was a testament to Chiang Mai's rich cultural heritage.


Experience the spiritual serenity and exquisite architecture of Wat Phra Singh, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

After soaking in the spiritual vibes, we decided to take a break for lunch. Mr. KAI Restaurant was our choice, and it was a great one. The food was delicious and authentic, and the prices were very reasonable. Sofia enjoyed some chicken fried rice, while Hans and I shared a green curry and a Pad Thai. It was the perfect way to refuel before our next adventure.


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

Our afternoon was dedicated to art and creativity. We visited the Elephant Parade, a shop and workshop where artists create and sell colorful elephant statues. Sofia was immediately captivated by the vibrant designs and the story behind the project. Elephant Parade donates 20% of its profits to elephant conservation and welfare projects. We learned that the Elephant Parade started right here in Chiang Mai by a father and son who wanted to help Mosha, a Thai elephant who had lost a leg after stepping on a landmine. The organization donated a prosthetic limb to Mosha, and they continue to support her hospital as well as other projects that increase the health and well-being of Asian elephants, raise awareness and education, and find solutions for the ongoing conflict between elephants and humans.


Discover a unique selection of handcrafted elephant-themed souvenirs at Elephant Parade in Chiang Mai, supporting local artisans and conservation efforts.

Sofia loved wandering through the garden filled with full-size baby elephant statues. She was thrilled to participate in a painting workshop where she could design her own elephant. She chose a small elephant figurine and spent a happy hour carefully painting it with bright colors and intricate patterns. Hans and I joined in, and soon we were all covered in paint, laughing and creating our own unique masterpieces. It was a fun and memorable experience, and we left with three adorable elephant souvenirs to remind us of our day.

Before dinner, we made a stop at the Three Kings Monument, a striking bronze sculpture that pays tribute to the three legendary rulers who founded Chiang Mai. The monument is located in the center of the old city and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. We took some photos and admired the intricate details of the sculpture. The square was bustling with activity, and there was a lively atmosphere that was infectious. We learned that the monument is often the focal point of local festivals and events, especially during Songkran (Thai New Year).


Explore the rich history of Chiang Mai at the iconic Three Kings Monument, a tribute to the city's legendary founders and a must-visit tourist attraction.

For dinner, we chose Dash, a restaurant that had been recommended to us by several people. It was a charming place, with a cozy atmosphere and a menu full of delicious Thai dishes. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including Massaman curry, spring rolls, and a spicy papaya salad. Everything was bursting with flavor, and we savored every bite. Sofia even tried a bit of the papaya salad, though she quickly decided it was too spicy for her.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Dash in Chiang Mai—where tradition meets modernity in every flavorful dish.

As we walked back to the Roseate Hotel Chiangmai, the city was alive with activity. The night markets were in full swing, and the streets were filled with vendors selling everything from street food to handicrafts. We stopped to browse, and Sofia picked out a colorful bracelet as a souvenir. I couldn't help but think how lucky we were to be here, experiencing this vibrant culture together as a family.


Discover comfort at Roseate Hotel Chiangmai, where modern amenities meet local charm. Enjoy a convenient stay near iconic attractions and vibrant nightlife.

Tomorrow, we’re planning a visit to the Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium. Sofia is thrilled to see the animals, and Hans and I are looking forward to exploring the exhibits. We'll start our day with breakfast at Freshtime food and juice, followed by lunch at Nun's Restaurant. In the evening, we plan to relax at The Good View Bar & Restaurant Chiang Mai and enjoy some live music at Boy Blues Bar. It promises to be another exciting day in Chiang Mai.

Back at the hotel, Sofia was exhausted but happy. As I tucked her into bed, I reflected on the day. We had seen so much, learned so much, and experienced so much together. These are the moments that I will cherish forever, the moments that make travel so rewarding. It’s not just about seeing new places; it’s about creating memories and strengthening bonds with the people you love. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that our family adventure in Chiang Mai was just getting started.