Family Cultural Adventure in Chiang Mai

A Fond Farewell to Chiang Mai

As our family's cultural adventure in Chiang Mai draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared over the past eight days. Today, we set out to soak in the last moments of this enchanting city, visiting historical landmarks and immersing ourselves in the local culture one final time. It’s a bittersweet feeling, knowing our journey here is ending, but I'm filled with gratitude for the memories we've created.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Goodsouls Kitchen, a vegan restaurant that has quickly become a family favorite. Lara was especially excited about their sesame pancakes, which she declared were even better than the ones I make at home! Hans opted for the tofu scramble, and I couldn't resist their famous Khao Soi – a Northern Thai classic that never disappoints. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the perfect start to our last day.


Experience vibrant plant-based cuisine at Goodsouls Kitchen in Chiang Mai – where health meets flavor in every delicious bite.

Every journey, no matter how short, leaves an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.

Fueled and ready, we headed towards Tha Phae Gate, a historic landmark that once served as the main entrance to the old city. As we approached, the gate's ancient walls stood proudly against the clear blue sky. It was a Friday morning, and the area was already bustling with activity. We strolled through the gate, imagining what it must have been like centuries ago when traders and travelers passed through these very walls. The energy of the city felt palpable, a mix of ancient history and modern life blending seamlessly.


Discover Tha Phae Gate, a historic landmark in Chiang Mai where tradition meets vibrant culture and bustling markets, perfect for an unforgettable experience.

I couldn't help but think about the Chiang Mai Countdown 2025 event that takes place here every year, with live music and fireworks creating a vibrant atmosphere. While we missed that celebration, the gate's historical significance alone was enough to captivate us. Tha Phae Gate is truly the city square of Chiang Mai, hosting cultural activities and festivals throughout the year. We took some family photos, capturing the moment against the backdrop of this iconic landmark.

Next on our itinerary was Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. Founded in 1297 by King Mangrai, it was built on the site of Wiang Nopburi, a fortified town used as a camp during the construction of Chiang Mai. As we entered the temple grounds, a sense of tranquility washed over us. The temple's Lanna-style architecture was stunning, with intricate carvings and ornate details adorning every surface.


Discover the serene beauty and spiritual essence of Wat Chiang Man, Chiang Mai's oldest temple, a must-visit for travelers seeking cultural immersion.

We explored the Chedi Chang Lom, the 'Elephant Chedi,' which features the front half of fifteen life-sized brick-and-stucco elephants emerging from its base. Lara was fascinated by these elephants, counting each one and marveling at their size. Inside the main Wihan, we admired the large mondop structure for an altar surrounded by Buddha statues. One of the standing Buddhas had the year 1465 CE engraved on its base, making it the oldest statue of the Lanna Kingdom. Wat Chiang Man is not only the oldest temple but also an impressive example of Lanna architecture and a wealth of cultural heritage.

One of the highlights was seeing the two important Buddha statues housed in the smaller Wihan: the Phra Sae Tang Khamani, also known as the 'Crystal Buddha,' and the Phra Sila, a stone stele depicting a standing Buddha. The Crystal Buddha, just 10 cm tall, is carved from clear quartz crystal and is believed to have rain-giving powers. The Phra Sila is thought to protect against disasters, a comforting thought as we reflected on our journey.

After immersing ourselves in the spiritual atmosphere of Wat Chiang Man, our stomachs began to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. We decided to try Coconut Shell Thai Food, a local restaurant known for its authentic Thai cuisine at reasonable prices. The restaurant was bustling, but we managed to snag a table outside, soaking in the vibrant street scene while we waited for our food.


Discover authentic Thai cuisine at Coconut Shell Thai Food in Chiang Mai—where every dish tells a story through its rich flavors.

We ordered a variety of dishes to share: papaya salad, Tom Kha Gai (coconut chicken soup), and fried rice with curry. Lara, surprisingly, loved the Tom Kha Gai, while Hans and I savored the spicy papaya salad. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the authentic Thai cooking. For dessert, we indulged in mango sticky rice, a classic Thai treat that never disappoints. The sticky rice was infused with butterfly pea flowers, giving it a beautiful blue hue, and the mango was perfectly ripe and sweet.

With our bellies full, we set out for our final activity of the day: a visit to Mainiji.Everyday Craft Shop. I had read about this shop and was eager to find some unique souvenirs to take back home to Dresden. The shop was located in the Chang Phueak district, near many other attractions, making it a perfect stop during our sightseeing.


Discover the charm of Thai craftsmanship at Mainiji Everyday Craft Shop, your go-to destination for unique clothing and accessories in Chiang Mai.

As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a colorful array of handcrafted garments, accessories, and textiles. Mainiji.Everyday Craft Shop is known for its commitment to local craftsmanship, offering stylish clothing items that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. I was particularly drawn to the hand-woven scarves and the intricate embroidery on the dresses. Lara found a cute elephant-shaped coin purse, while Hans admired the traditional Thai shirts. We spent a happy hour browsing the shop, chatting with the friendly staff, and learning about the stories behind the items.

I ended up buying a beautiful silk scarf with intricate patterns, a reminder of our time in Chiang Mai. Lara chose a small, hand-painted wooden elephant as a keepsake. These items, more than just souvenirs, represent the memories and experiences we shared as a family in this vibrant city.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Jen Moy Local Thai Restaurant for our final dinner in Chiang Mai. This restaurant was recommended to us for its authentic flavors and cozy atmosphere. It was the perfect place to reflect on our journey and savor the last moments of our culinary adventure.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine with a twist at Jen Moy Local Thai Restaurant in Chiang Mai - where flavor meets innovation.

We ordered a variety of dishes, including Pad Thai and green curry, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. The flavors were bold and satisfying, a fitting end to our culinary exploration of Chiang Mai. The restaurant had a warm and inviting ambiance, making us feel right at home. The staff was friendly and attentive, ensuring that our last meal in Chiang Mai was a memorable one.

As we sat there, enjoying our meal, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had in Chiang Mai. From exploring ancient temples to savoring delicious Thai cuisine, this city has captured our hearts and souls. It's a place we'll always remember, a destination that has enriched our lives and strengthened our bonds as a family.

Tomorrow, we will be heading to the airport to begin our journey back to Dresden. While I am looking forward to returning home, I know that a part of me will always remain in Chiang Mai. This city has taught us so much about history, culture, and the importance of family. It's a place we hope to visit again someday, to relive the memories we've created and discover new adventures.

Until then, I'll cherish the moments we shared in Chiang Mai, the smiles, the laughter, and the unforgettable experiences that have made this trip so special. Thank you, Chiang Mai, for welcoming us with open arms and for giving us memories that will last a lifetime. As we prepare to leave, I can't help but smile, knowing that our family cultural adventure in Chiang Mai has been nothing short of extraordinary. It's a journey we'll treasure forever, a chapter in our lives that we'll revisit time and time again. I’m so glad I got to share it all with you, too.

Safe travels, and until next time!