Cultural Immersion and Adventure in Chiang Mai

A Day of Discovery and Reflection

Today was a day of stepping back in time and basking in the golden glow of Chiang Mai's spiritual heart. From exploring the ruins of an ancient kingdom to witnessing breathtaking panoramic views, it was a day filled with history, culture, and a deep sense of peace. It's amazing how much you can learn and experience in a single day when you open yourself up to the wonders around you.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Goodsouls Kitchen - Vegan Restaurant, a vegan restaurant that has quickly become one of my favorite spots in Chiang Mai. I opted for the sesame pancakes, and they were simply divine! It's so refreshing to find a place that caters to plant-based diets without compromising on flavor or portion size. Fuelled up and ready for the day, I set off to explore the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam.


Explore Wiang Kum Kam, an ancient city near Chiang Mai, where history, culture, and stunning ruins come together in a tranquil setting.
Wiang Kum Kam, also known as the 'Underground Ancient City,' was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom in the late 13th century. However, due to repeated flooding, King Mangrai decided to move the capital to Chiang Mai, and Wiang Kum Kam was eventually abandoned and lost to history for many years, buried under layers of mud and silt. It wasn't until the 1980s that excavations began, revealing the remains of this once-thriving city. Walking through the ruins, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the resilience of history. To imagine a whole city buried and then rediscovered is truly remarkable.

I decided to explore the site by renting a bicycle, which turned out to be the perfect way to navigate the sprawling complex. The first stop was Wat Chedi Liam, a Mon-style temple with a stepped pyramid-shaped chedi. It's one of the oldest structures in Wiang Kum Kam, dating back to 1288, and is still an active temple today. The intricate details of the chedi and the serene atmosphere of the temple grounds made it a truly special place.

Next, I cycled to Wat E-Kang, believed to have been built in the 16th century. The temple's original name is unknown, but locals named it after the monkeys that used to inhabit the area. Though the temple is in ruins, the brick chedi is well-preserved and offers a glimpse into the past. It's fascinating to see how nature has intertwined with the ancient structures, creating a unique blend of history and the present.

As I continued my exploration, I came across Wat Pu Pia, another partially restored temple with a beautiful brick chedi adorned with intricate stuccoed ornamentations. Each of these temples tells a story, and piecing together the history of Wiang Kum Kam felt like solving a fascinating puzzle.

After immersing myself in the ancient ruins, it was time for lunch. I headed to Aroy Dee, a local Thai restaurant known for its fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. I ordered the Pad See Ew noodles, and they were absolutely delicious! The freshness of the noodles and the perfect balance of flavors made it a truly satisfying meal.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at Aroy Dee in Chiang Mai - where every dish tells a story.
With my stomach happy and my curiosity piqued, I made my way to Wat Phra That Doi Kham, also known as the Temple of the Golden Mountain. Perched atop a hill, this temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding countryside. The temple dates back to the end of the 7th century, making it one of the oldest in the province.


Experience the spiritual beauty and stunning views of Wat Phra That Doi Kham, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
As I ascended the winding road to the temple, I could feel the anticipation building. The air was filled with the scent of incense, and the sounds of chanting monks echoed through the hills. Upon reaching the top, I was greeted by a magnificent sight: a massive sitting Buddha image, standing over 17 meters tall, draped in golden robes. The sheer size and grandeur of the statue were awe-inspiring.

The beauty of a culture lies not just in its monuments, but in the stories and traditions that breathe life into them.

I spent some time exploring the temple grounds, admiring the intricate murals and the various Buddha statues. The temple is also home to a chedi, which houses Buddha relics, and a large esplanade offering stunning views of the Royal Park Rajapruek down in the valley. It was a truly serene and spiritual experience.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Wat Phra That Doi Kham is the legend of Pu Sae and Ya Sae, a cannibal family who were converted to Buddhism by the Buddha himself. Shrines dedicated to these figures can be found within the temple compound, and locals often offer gifts of dress shirts to them. It's a testament to the power of compassion and the transformative nature of faith.

Before leaving Wat Phra That Doi Kham, I took a moment to soak in the breathtaking view. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the city and the surrounding mountains. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with history, culture, and spiritual discovery.

On my way back to the Cozy Inn Chiang Mai, I decided to stop by Elephant Parade, a shop that sells hand-painted elephant statues. I have seen these statues all over Chiang Mai, in different locations such as Elephant Parade House Wat Khet, Elephant Parade Land and Elephant Parade Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai. Each statue is a unique work of art, and part of the proceeds from the sales goes to support elephant conservation efforts. I couldn't resist buying a small elephant statue as a souvenir, knowing that I was also contributing to a worthy cause.


Discover a unique selection of handcrafted elephant-themed souvenirs at Elephant Parade in Chiang Mai, supporting local artisans and conservation efforts.
For dinner, I chose Dash, known for its romantic atmosphere and delicious Thai food. Located in an old teak wooden house, the restaurant exudes charm and character. I ordered the Tom Yum soup and a fish dish, and both were incredibly flavorful. The restaurant had a live band situated on one side, which created a great atmosphere! I highly recommend visiting Dash in the evening, as the red lanterns add to the romantic ambiance.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Dash in Chiang Mai—where tradition meets modernity in every flavorful dish.
As I sit here reflecting on the day's adventures, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore Chiang Mai's rich history and culture. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Mae Kampong Village and San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. I’m looking forward to immersing myself in the natural beauty of northern Thailand. Perhaps I'll finish the day at the THC Rooftop Bar for a drink!

This trip is not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with different cultures and gaining a deeper understanding of the world around me. As a Senegalese woman living in Germany, I have always been fascinated by the diversity of human experience. Traveling solo allows me to fully immerse myself in these experiences and to reflect on my own place in the world.

Back in Heidelberg, Hans and Aisha are probably having dinner right now. I miss them both dearly, and I am looking forward to sharing my stories with them when I return. Aisha is especially interested in elephants, so I am sure she will be thrilled with the elephant statue I bought today.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure. Chiang Mai, you have captured my heart with your beauty, your history, and your warm hospitality. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!