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There aren’t many places where you can trek to an ancient temple atop a mountain and enjoy a 10-course menu of world-class cuisine on the same day. Chiang Mai is one of the few destinations that make it possible.
From dawn treks through jungle trails to afternoons cycling scenic loops, the city and its surroundings invite you to explore. Pair outdoor adventures with full-flavoured Northern Thai cuisine and serene hotels set among rice paddies, and this adventure traveller’s dream becomes even more enticing.
Here’s a two-day itinerary to make the most of a nature retreat in Chiang Mai.
Day 1: Easy hikes, temples and Northern Thai cuisine
Morning
Start your adventure with Pilgrim’s Trail (Monk’s Trail). The 5-kilometre roundtrip hike begins near Chiang Mai University and winds through the lush jungle to Wat Pha Lat, a serene 14th-century temple perched halfway up Doi Suthep. Most hikers set out at dawn for cool temperatures and soft morning light, but you can do this trek any time of day.Refuel with a bowl of khao soi, Chiang Mai’s most iconic dish. Try 40-year-old Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom for a rich stewed beef version, or visit popular Khao Soi Mae Sai, a Bib Gourmand eatery listed in The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025, in Chang Phueak for tender chicken khao soi and flavour-packed khanom jeen nam ngiew (fermented rice noodles in a spicy-sour pork stew).
For a longer trek, head to Wat Phra That Doi Kham, a 7th-century hilltop temple overlooking Royal Park Rajapruek. After ascending a naga-lined staircase, follow the 8.5-kilometre trail through rolling forested hills, ending at the temple’s parking lot.
Or embark on a full-day trek to Ban Khun Chang Khian, a Hmong village with seasonal cherry blossoms, longan orchards and charming coffee shops. Begin at the trailhead across from Wang Bua Baan Waterfall on the road to Doi Suthep, then tackle a steep 6-kilometre climb through dense jungle to reach the village. Be sure to refuel with an iced coffee and local snacks before following the same trail back to Chiang Mai.
Treat yourself to a hearty lunch at the 2025 MICHELIN-listed Larb Duang Dee Mee Sook. This quaint spot near Doi Kham is known for its northern-style lab (spicy meat salad) and spicy-sour beef soup.
You can also satisfy your appetite at the 2025 Bib Gourmand eatery Huen Muan Jai, a long-standing favourite in Chang Phueak. This humble restaurant, set inside a Lanna-style wooden house, serves several hard-to-find specialities – from red ant egg omelettes to spicy soup with young jackfruit – as well as Northern Thai classics, including fantastic sai oua (Northern Thai sausage) with green chilli dip.
Night
Rested and recharged, head to the Old City to experience Chiang Mai’s refined side.In the past five years, Chiang Mai’s nightlife has evolved into a worthy counterpart to Bangkok’s diverse drinks scene. Bars like Nophaburi, White Rabbit, Noir and The 5th Wall have brought big-city service and cocktails to Thailand’s fast-growing northern metropolis.
After a drink or two, have dinner at Maadae. While Northern Thailand might not scream “seafood,” founder Yaowadee Chookong’s unique venture offers a blueprint for sustainable dining and adds a new layer to Chiang Mai’s lively food scene.
Chookong sources seafood directly from Chumphon fishermen and complements it with seasonal organic produce on a regularly rotating menu.
Where to stay
Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai – This 1 MICHELIN Key resort is set at the foot of Doi Suthep. This boutique property may be in the city, but it has all the trappings of a wellness retreat. From its peaceful setting south of Wat Umong to its personalised wellness programmes, it’s an ideal complement to a nature-driven holiday.
Veranda High Resort MGallery Chiang Mai – A luxurious stay in the lush hills southwest of the city, this villa-style resort features a lofty open-plan design that creates an expansive sense of space. The infinity pool and impressive spa make it an ideal place to unwind after a day on the trails.
Day 2: Waterfalls, cycling and elevated dining
Morning
Start your day with a trip to Mae Rim and the Mae Sa Valley, home to cascading waterfalls, stunning jungle trails and scenic hikes around Mon Jam village and the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden. If you’re up for a challenge, try cycling the Samoeng Loop, an 85-kilometre route through the valley’s rolling hills, with plenty of stops for fresh strawberries and coffee.Or head south to Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s tallest peak – the 2,565-metre Doi Inthanon – as well as roaring waterfalls, nature trails and cultural sites. Catch the sunrise at the Royal Pagodas, hike the 2.5-kilometre Kew Mae Pan nature trail for panoramic views and end with a dip in the pools beneath Mae Ya Waterfall.
Afternoon
After spending the morning cycling or hiking, travel just north of Chiang Mai’s ring road to enjoy refined flavours at Saiyut and Doctor Sai Kitchen, a 2025 Bib Gourmand recipient. This 20-year-old restaurant celebrates the country’s diverse culinary heritage and features several royal recipes. Saiyut, Doctor Sai’s mother, was a culinary instructor, so expect not only impeccable flavours but also beautiful plating and presentation.
After eating, travel east from Chiang Mai to explore the area around Doi Saket. This tranquil escape is full of jungle trails and hot springs, especially in the quaint village of Mae Kampong. There’s also a cycling and jogging track around Mae Kuang Dam, a local favourite for sunsets.
If you’re looking for an even slower pace, head to Sri Lanna National Park instead. This serene reservoir is a great place to paddleboard, swim or simply relax on the water.
Night
Cap off your adventure with a memorable dining experience.Food For You, a MICHELIN-selected restaurant in the 2025 edition, offers a tranquil setting in a garden overlooking rice paddies, like something you might find in Ubud. Here, the chefs craft Thai dishes using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and customise the menu to your tastes.
A landmark that helped put Chiang Mai on the fine dining map, Blackitch is a must-visit restaurant. Chef Phanuphol “Black” Bulsuwan reimagines Thai, Japanese and Chinese flavours with creative flair across always-exciting 10-course feasts.
Where to stay
Four Seasons Resort Chiang MaiThis only 3 MICHELIN Key hotel in Chiang Mai is the ultimate ‘splash out’ resort, with Thai-inspired villas, heritage art and décor, a stunning infinity pool placed among the rice paddies in the Mae Rim valley.
