🌏 Introduction: Northern Thailand’s Perfect Duo
Chiang Mai and Pai, nestled among misty mountains and jungle valleys, are Northern Thailand’s crown jewels. This 5-day itinerary offers a perfect balance between culture, nature, food, and adventure — great for solo travelers, couples, or groups.
📅 Day 1 – Chiang Mai Old City: Temples, Food & Night Markets
🕗 Morning
- Visit Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang (open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM). Wear modest clothing for temple visits.
- Grab breakfast at Khao Soi Khun Yai — their Chiang Mai curry noodles are a must-try.
🕐 Afternoon
- Explore Tha Phae Gate and rent a bicycle or tuk-tuk to loop around the Old City.
- Relax with a massage at Lila Thai Massage, a social project supporting women’s reintegration.
🌃 Evening
- Dive into Chiang Mai Night Bazaar or Sunday Walking Street (Ratchadamnoen Rd).
- Try mango sticky rice, grilled sausages, and fresh tropical smoothies.
🌄 Day 2 – Doi Suthep Sunrise + Nimman Café Crawl
🕓 Early Morning
- Take a sunrise trip to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Hike the 309 steps or take a red songthaew truck. Entry: ฿30.
🕘 Brunch & Late Morning
- Explore Nimmanhaemin Road, Chiang Mai’s hip café district.
- Best spots: Ristr8to Lab (world-class latte art) or The Barn: Eatery Design (garden vibes).
🕒 Afternoon
- Visit MAYA Lifestyle Mall or stroll through One Nimman for stylish local finds.
- End the day at a rooftop café for sunset.
🛵 Day 3 – Road to Pai: 762 Curves, Epic Views
🕘 Morning
- Rent a scooter if experienced (otherwise use Prempracha minivans, ฿150–฿180 one-way).
- Depart Chiang Mai around 9:00 AM. Duration: 3–4 hours.
🛣️ Recommended Stops
- Mok Fa Waterfall (฿100, great swimming).
- Yun Lai Viewpoint for panoramic photos and tea.
🕒 Afternoon Arrival in Pai
- Check-in at Pai Village Boutique Resort or The Countryside Pai (budget-friendly, rice field views).
- Sip a cocktail at Sunset Bar or explore the laid-back vibe.
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Keyword: Mountain road to Pai, Pai scooter adventure
🔗 Internal link: “Thailand road trips” → Destinations > Northern Thailand
🌴 Day 4 – Nature & Culture in Pai
🕘 Morning
- Walk the peaceful Pai Bamboo Bridge across the rice paddies.
- Visit Pam Bok Waterfall or soak in the Tha Pai Hot Springs (฿300).
🕒 Afternoon
- Hike to the White Buddha on the Hill. Best lighting: 4–5 PM.
- Optional: Land Split for a quirky, natural phenomenon and tasty homemade jams.
🌃 Evening
- Dine at Na’s Kitchen (local food, low prices).
- Shop & stroll through the Pai Night Market.
- Enjoy live music at Yellow Sun Bar or cozy drinks at Spirit Bar.
🧳 Day 5 – Return to Chiang Mai + Final Finds
🕘 Morning
- Breakfast at Om Garden Café.
- Depart Pai by 10:00 AM to avoid afternoon traffic.
🕒 Back in Chiang Mai
- Visit Warorot Market for local crafts or Baan Kang Wat (creative community village).
- Optional: Cocktail at THC Rooftop Bar or fine dining at Oxygen @ X2 Riverside.
