3 Days in Chiang Mai: Art and Design
3 Days in Chiang Mai: Art and Design
Day 1: Foundations of Culture
Begin the day with an exploration of Chiang Mai’s spiritual and cultural heritage, then end with a festive evening of traditional food and performances.
Morning
Optional add-on: Visit Wat Chiang Man, known for its chedi surrounded by 15 elephant statues. Requirements for respectful/modest attire apply at temples, mosques, and other religious sites. Visitors should avoid disrupting religious observances and remain mindful of posted customs.
Start off at Wat Phra Singh, known for its classic Lanna architecture and sacred Buddha images. Continue to Wat Phan Tao, a quieter teak temple that reflects northern Thai craftsmanship.
Afternoon
Visit the Lanna Folklife Museum to explore Chiang Mai’s cultural history, from traditional crafts and architecture to everyday customs of the Lanna people.
Evening
End the day with a khantoke dinner at the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre, enjoying a traditional northern Thai meal while watching performances of classical dance and music.
Day 2: Living Art and Tradition
Spend the day experiencing Chiang Mai’s vibrant creative community.
Morning
If the day falls on a weekend, start the day at Jing Jai Market where you’ll find craft vendors, handmade goods, and local produce.
Follow this up with a visit to the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre, which provides context on the city’s history, art, and cultural evolution.
Alternate Morning Location
If it’s a weekday and Jing Jai Market isn't being held, head to Jing Jai Village instead, where galleries and stores showcase contemporary arts and local design.
Follow this up with a visit to the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre, which provides context on the city’s history, art, and cultural evolution.
Afternoon
Head to Baan Kang Wat, an artisan village featuring workshops, demonstrations, and handmade crafts. Take time to explore the studios and meet local artists.
Optional add-on: Visit Wat Umong, also known as the Tunnel Temple.
Evening
Continue on to Wat Sri Suphan, known for its detailed silver handiwork. If it’s Saturday, conclude the day at the Saturday Night Market near the temple, where you’ll encounter street stalls, local foods, and vibrant crowds.
Day 3: Traditional to Contemporary Art and Culture
Explore Chiang Mai’s rich artisan traditions, from paper and umbrella making to weaving and silverwork, before ending the day in one of the city’s vibrant markets.
Day
Begin your day at Saa Paper and Umbrella Handicraft Center, before continuing onto Bo Sang Umbrella Village, where you can observe traditional techniques and participate in workshops or demonstrations. Many tours also highlight other local crafts, including silk weaving, celadon pottery, and silverwork.
Then head back to the city for a visit to MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum to discover contemporary regional and Thai art.
Evening
Conclude the day exploring one of Chiang Mai’s markets, with Sunday's market being the most vibrant and energetic. The Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street Market is filled with local handicrafts, street food vendors, and live performances.
Alternate Evening Locations
If it's Saturday, visit the Saturday Night Market Walking Street, which is similar to Sunday's market, but smaller and in a different location.
On weekdays, head to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Options for Bad Weather
In case of bad weather, visit:
- Chiang Mai National Museum to gain insight into Lanna culture and northern Thai history
- Central Festival Mall, also known as Central Chiang Mai, for an indoor, air-conditioned shopping experience
Optional Trip Extension
To extend your time in Chiang Mai, consider a day trip to Baan Tawai Village, famous for woodcarving and other handicrafts.
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