Travelling to Chiang Mai and looking for child-friendly adventures? Our family embarked on an exhilarating journey to Chiang Mai, a charming city nestled in the lush mountains of northern Thailand. From the moment we boarded the sleep train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, we knew we were in for an adventure of a lifetime.
Sleeper Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
The journey aboard the sleeper train was nothing short of magical. We watched the bustling cityscape of Bangkok fade into the distance as we settled into our cozy sleeper compartment. Out of the window, we could see an epic storm which we watched for hours. The rhythmic rocking of the train and the gentle hum of the tracks lulled us into a peaceful sleep, and we awoke refreshed and excited to explore Chiang Mai.
We took Train Number 9 which departs from Bangkok at 18:40. The train is modern and has private cabins with fold-down beds or comfortable reclining chairs with privacy curtains (Tip – you can book two connecting cabins for larger families). The handy 12Go website has further details about this and other trains for this route.
Visiting the Temples in Chiang Mai
Our first stop in Chiang Mai was to visit the city’s main temples, including the historic Wat Chedi Luang. We marvelled at the intricate architecture, ornate carvings, and serene atmosphere of these sacred sites, immersing ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of Thailand. Our children were fascinated by the buildings and traditional practices that they could get involved with.
Exploring the Chiang Mai Countryside
One of the highlights of our trip was the exhilarating 3-day cycle, hike, and rafting tour with Chiang Mai Bicycle. We explored the stunning countryside on two wheels, pedalling through lush rice paddies, quaint villages, and verdant forests. We then embarked on a thrilling hike through the jungle, trekking to hidden waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints. Staying in a bamboo hut for the night at the top was one of the highlights of our whole trip in Asia that summer. Finally, we enjoyed an adrenaline-pumping rafting adventure down the winding river, soaking in the breathtaking scenery along the way. We even saw a baby elephant enjoying a swim! Our little ones were 6 and 3 years old for this trip and the guides we had couldn’t have tailored the trip more perfectly. A highly recommended adventure for the whole family!
Doi Suthep: The Mountain Temple in Chiang Mai
No trip to Chiang Mai would be complete without a visit to the towering mountain that overlooks the city. We embarked on a scenic tour up the winding road to the summit of Doi Suthep where we were rewarded with panoramic views of the cityscape below. We soaked in the breathtaking vistas and explored the temple that sits at the top. There are some excellent places to eat up there and for children with tired legs, there is a handy funicular railway to carry you up to the top.
Baan Kang Wat: Chiang Mai’s Art Village
Our adventure in Chiang Mai concluded with a visit to Baan Kang Wat. In this charming art village, we explored galleries, studios, and boutiques showcasing the works of local artisans. We marvelled at the craftsmanship of handmade pottery, textiles, and wood carvings, and couldn’t resist bringing home a few souvenirs. The place is great for kids with plenty of little activities for them to do. One of our highly recommended child-friendly adventures, especially for those with younger children.
Child-Friendly Chiang Mai Adventures
We hope this blog gives you some ideas for your child-friendly adventures in Chiang Mai. Our family adventure in Chiang Mai was a whirlwind of excitement, exploration, and cultural immersion. From the sleeper train to the breathtaking temples and exhilarating outdoor activities, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. As we bid farewell to this enchanting city, we carried with us cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of Thailand’s northern gem. From here it was on to Vietnam and the next leg of our adventures in Hanoi!
