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Aerial view of a winding road through lush green forest with misty mountain backdrop in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

14-Day Authentic Autumn Backpacking in Chiang Mai

🎒Viagem econômica
14 diasautumn

Experience Chiang Mai on a budget with free walking tours, local street food, iconic temples, and nature walks in a fun and authentic way this autumn.

Nossa dica de viagem nº 1

Antes do Dia 1: Reserve um tour a pé GRATUITO

Tours a pé gratuitos. Sim, realmente gratuitos. Sem necessidade de cartão de crédito. Sem pegadinhas.

Guia local, 2-3 horas

Principais pontos turísticos, joias escondidas, histórias locais

100% baseado em gorjetas

Guias ganham apenas gorjetas, então dão o seu melhor

Você dá a gorjeta que achar justa

No final, apenas dê a gorjeta que achar justa

Fiz esses tours em dezenas de cidades e eles foram o destaque de quase todas as viagens. Se você estiver visitando Chiang Mai, Thailand, faça isso no seu primeiro dia. Você vai me agradecer depois.

Adrijana, fundador do City Buddy
Veja tours a pé GRATUITOS
Dia 1Orientation and Local Flavors
Morning
Free Walking Tour

~2 hours

Join a free walking tour starting from Tha Phae Gate in the old city. You'll get oriented with the city layout and local history from an enthusiastic guide. Wear comfortable shoes and be ready to explore hidden alleys and ancient walls.

Book FREE walking tour
Afternoon

Wat Phra Singh

Wat Phra Singh

Visit this stunning temple famous for its beautiful Lanna architecture and the revered Phra Singh Buddha image. Located in the old city, it's a quiet spot ideal for some peaceful contemplation and photography.

4.7(17k reviews)~1.5 hours
Evening

Tha Phae Gate & Sunday Walking Street

Tha Phae Gate & Sunday Walking Street

Head to Tha Phae Gate in the evening when it transforms with street vendors, artisan stalls, and live performances. The Sunday Walking Street is the best place to find crafts and taste local snacks in a lively atmosphere.

4.5(7k reviews)~2 hours

Meals

lunch
Street food stalls near Wat Phra Singh offering Khao Soi (a northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup) and Sai Ua (Northern Thai sausage).
$1-2
dinner
Try the Sunday Walking Street food vendors' Mango sticky rice (sweet mango with coconut sticky rice) and Thai iced tea (sweetened black tea with milk).
$1-3
snack
Grab Khanom Krok (small coconut rice pancakes) from street vendors at Tha Phae Gate.
$1
The best way to get around today is on foot within the old city walls. For longer distances, use red songthaews or Grab taxis with taxi fares about $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Perfect central location close to major temples and walking tours.

Dia 2Temples and Street Food
Morning

Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang

Explore the impressive ancient temple ruins with a giant pagoda and giant trees growing through the walls. Located in the historic old city near markets and cafes.

4.7(17k reviews)~1.5 hours
Afternoon
Find a street food market

~2 hours

Look for local street food markets around the Old City, especially around Chang Moi Road and Moon Muang Road to sample authentic northern Thai dishes at great prices.

Evening

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Experience the bustling Night Bazaar with stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food. A great spot to practice your bargaining skills and taste local delicacies.

4.3(26k reviews)~2.5 hours

Meals

breakfast
Try a hearty breakfast of Khao Soi from a vendor near your hostel in the Old City.
$1.5
Nam Prik Ong
lunch$1-2

Sample Nam Prik Ong (a northern Thai chili and tomato dip) with sticky rice at a street food market on Chang Moi Road.

Nam Prik Ong
dinner
Enjoy street food at the Night Bazaar including Sai Ua (spicy northern Thai sausage) and fresh Thai iced tea.
$2-3
Walking is easiest within the Old City today but use local tuk-tuks or red songthaews for longer trips. Grab taxi app is handy and fares are about $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Central location for exploring temples and markets easily on foot.

Dia 3Mountain Temple and Local Community
Morning

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Take a red songthaew or taxi up this mountain temple for spectacular city views and stunning gold pagoda architecture. Arrive early to avoid crowds and bring water.

4.7(11k reviews)~3 hours
Afternoon
Explore a local handicraft village

~2 hours

Visit Baan Tawai Village, about 12 km south of Chiang Mai, known for its woodcarvings, textiles, and artisan crafts. Great spot to see local craftsmanship and buy authentic souvenirs.

Evening
Try a local backpacker bar

~2 hours

Head to Nimmanhaemin Road area for lively backpacker bars with cheap drinks and laid-back vibes. Try local beers and chat with travelers and locals alike.

Meals

breakfast
Enjoy Thai iced tea (sweetened black tea with milk) and a light breakfast at a cafe near your hostel.
$1.5
Khao Soi
lunch$1-2

At Doi Suthep base, try Khao Soi at a small roadside eatery before heading up the mountain.

Khao Soi
dinner
Sample Sai Ua (Northern Thai spicy sausage) and local street snacks in Nimmanhaemin Road bars.
$2-4
Use Grab taxis or shared red songthaews to reach Doi Suthep and Baan Tawai. Walking is great for Nimmanhaemin area. Taxi fares are around $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Close to city attractions and nightlife spots like Nimmanhaemin Road.

Dia 4Nature Walks and Waterfalls
Morning

Bua Thong Waterfalls

Bua Thong Waterfalls

Known as the Sticky Waterfalls, these limestone cascades are fun to climb and great for cooling off. It's about 20 km north of the city center, best reached by rented scooter or taxi.

4.7(7k reviews)~3 hours
Afternoon
Visit a local park for autumn foliage

~2 hours

Visit Huay Kaew Arboretum near the university for peaceful walking paths and colorful trees in the cooler season. A lovely spot to relax away from busy tourist areas.

Meals

Khanom Buang
breakfast$1

Have a quick breakfast with Khanom Buang (crispy Thai pancakes) from street vendors near your hostel.

Khanom Buang
lunch
Pack a simple meal or eat at a local food stall near Bua Thong Waterfalls with options like sticky rice and grilled chicken.
$1-2
dinner
Back in the city, enjoy Nam Manao (fresh lime juice) and local snacks on Nimmanhaemin Road.
$1.5
Rent a scooter or use Grab taxi for Bua Thong Waterfalls. In the city, walk or take red songthaews. Taxi app fares are about $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Central base for city and nature day trips.

Dia 5Cultural Immersion and Local Markets
Morning
Visit a local morning market

~2 hours

Check out Warorot Market early for fresh produce, street food, and local goods. It’s north of the Ping River and a hub of daily Chiang Mai life.

Afternoon
Explore Nimmanhaemin Road on foot

~3 hours

Stroll along Nimmanhaemin Road to browse trendy shops, art galleries, and hip cafes. Great place to find handmade crafts and taste local coffee with a modern twist.

Meals

Khao Soi
breakfast$1.5

Try Khao Soi at a popular breakfast spot in Warorot Market for a flavorful start.

Khao Soi
lunch
Grab Sai Ua sausage wraps or Nam Prik Ong dip with sticky rice from Nimmanhaemin street vendors.
$1-2
Lemongrass tea
dinner$1.5

Enjoy Lemongrass tea and light snacks at a local café on Nimmanhaemin Road.

Lemongrass tea
Walk or use red songthaews for getting around these markets and Nimmanhaemin Road. Grab taxis are available and affordable at around $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Close to markets and trendy neighborhoods.

Dia 6Day Trip to Nature
Full day

Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park

Full-day trip to Thailand's highest peak and national park. Explore waterfalls, nature trails, and hill tribe villages. Book a tour or rent a car for convenience. Bring water, sunblock, and comfortable shoes.

4.7(4k reviews)~8 hours

Meals

Khanom Krok
breakfast$1

Grab a quick breakfast of Khanom Krok (coconut rice pancakes) from your hostel area before you leave.

Khanom Krok
lunch
A picnic lunch or meal at a park restaurant with simple Thai dishes like fried rice and spicy salads.
$3-5
Khao Soi
dinner$2-4

Return to the city for a relaxed dinner with Khao Soi and Thai iced tea at a local street food stall.

Khao Soi
Book a guided minivan tour or use Grab car service for Doi Inthanon. Public transport is limited. Taxi fares are roughly $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Ideal for resting after a full day trip to the park.

Dia 7Elephants and Ethical Wildlife
Full day

Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park

Spend a rewarding day at an ethical elephant sanctuary. You'll learn about elephant conservation and can watch them bathe and feed in a natural environment. Book in advance as it fills up fast.

4.8(5k reviews)~8 hours

Meals

breakfast
Have a light breakfast with Thai iced tea and Khanom Buang before heading out.
$1.5
lunch
Lunch is usually included at the park, featuring healthy Thai dishes with fresh vegetables and rice.
dinner
Back in town, try mango sticky rice and a local herbal drink for a refreshing end to the day.
$2-3
Most tours provide transport from the city. Otherwise, use Grab taxi or rental car. Taxis approximate $0.5/km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Comfortable base near tour pickup points and city eateries.

Dia 8Local Culture and Art
Morning
Visit a local art gallery

~2 hours

Explore Art in Paradise Chiang Mai, an interactive 3D art museum where you can take fun photos with optical illusions. Located near the Night Bazaar area.

Afternoon
Find a traditional Thai coffee shop

~2 hours

Head to a traditional coffee shop on Ratchadamnoen Road for Thai coffee and fresh pastries. A cozy spot to soak in local atmosphere and watch daily city life.

Meals

breakfast
Enjoy Thai iced tea and Khanom Buang at a local street stall near your hostel.
$1.5
Khao Soi
lunch$1.5

Try Khao Soi at a street-side eatery near the gallery for a tasty midday meal.

Khao Soi
dinner
Taste Sai Ua sausage and fresh lime juice at a night market food stall.
$2-3
Walking and Grab taxis are best for this day around the city center. Taxi fares about $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Centrally located for easy access to art and coffee spots.

Dia 9Wildlife and Nightlife
Morning

Chiang Mai Zoo & Aquarium

Chiang Mai Zoo & Aquarium

Visit the zoo and aquarium on Huay Kaew Road, a fun spot to see tropical wildlife and marine life. Open early, so arrive in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.

4(1k reviews)~3 hours
Evening

Chiang Mai Night Safari

Chiang Mai Night Safari

Evening safari experience with guided tram rides to see nocturnal animals. A unique way to explore wildlife after dark. Book tickets in advance for evening sessions.

4.3(11k reviews)~3 hours

Meals

Khanom Krok
breakfast$1

Light breakfast of Khanom Krok near your hostel before heading out to the zoo.

Khanom Krok
lunch
Eat at zoo cafes or street vendors nearby, try northern Thai sausages and sticky rice.
$2-3
dinner
At the Night Safari, sample grilled meats and fresh lime juice at food stalls.
$2-3
Use Grab taxis or red songthaews to reach both zoo and Night Safari. Taxi fare is about $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Perfect base for wildlife outings and evening activities.

Dia 10Street Food and Local Conversations
Evening
Explore local street food alleys

~3 hours

Wander through the city's famous street food alleys like Chang Phuak Gate and Warorot Market area for authentic flavors. Try chatting with vendors to learn about local dishes.

Meals

Khao Soi
dinner$2-3

Order Khao Soi and Thai iced tea from street stalls in the food alleys for a budget-friendly feast.

Khao Soi
Walking is best to explore street food alleys. For longer distances, use Grab taxis or red songthaews. Taxi cost is about $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Central and convenient for food explorations.

Dia 11Historic Temples and Relaxation
Morning
Mediate at a temple

~2 hours

Join a meditation session at Wat Umong, a serene forest temple on the western outskirts of Chiang Mai. It's a peaceful spot away from the city bustle. Sessions often offer introductory talks.

Afternoon
Read at a local bookstore cafe

~2 hours

Relax at a quaint bookstore cafe like Ristretto or Book River Coffee, known for excellent coffee and cozy reading nooks in central Chiang Mai.

Meals

breakfast
Start the day with Thai iced tea and Khanom Krok from street vendors near your hostel.
$1.5
lunch
Try Sai Ua sausage wraps at a casual eatery near Wat Umong.
$2-3
dinner
Enjoy mango sticky rice and a warm herbal drink at a night market stall close to your accommodation.
$2-3
Take Grab taxis or red songthaews to reach Wat Umong and local cafes. Taxi fares about $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Central, quiet, and close to meditation and cafe spots.

Dia 12Walks and Views
Morning
Hike a public nature trail

~3 hours

Try a hike on the Mae Sa Waterfall Nature Trail about 20 minutes from the city. It's well-marked and offers lovely forest scenery and mild exercise.

Afternoon
Visit a viewpoint for city views

~1.5 hours

Head to Monk’s Viewpoint near Doi Suthep for sweeping views at sunset. It's a taxi or songthaew ride from the city and well worth the short trip for photo opportunities.

Meals

Khanom Buang
breakfast$1.5

Enjoy Khanom Buang and lemongrass tea at a street vendor near your hostel.

Khanom Buang
Khao Soi
lunch$1.5

Try Khao Soi at a small eatery near Mae Sa Trail entrance.

Khao Soi
Nam Prik Ong
dinner$2-3

Back in the city, savor Nam Prik Ong with sticky rice and Thai iced tea at a night market.

Nam Prik Ong
Use Grab taxis or rent a scooter to reach Mae Sa trail and Monk’s viewpoint. Around town, red songthaews are practical. Taxi fares about $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Great base for nature escapes and city views.

Dia 13Local Lifestyle and Shopping
Morning
Find a local breakfast spot

~1.5 hours

Explore local noodle shops near the Old City for a traditional northern Thai breakfast like Khao Soi or noodle soup. Locals start early so come by 8 AM.

Afternoon
Shop at a local craft market

~3 hours

Visit the Saturday Night Market on Wualai Road for handwoven textiles, jewelry, and northern handmade crafts at negotiable prices. Great for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Meals

breakfast
Enjoy Khao Soi or Sai Ua sausage with sticky rice at a local noodle shop near the Old City.
$2
lunch
Snack on Khanom Krok and Nam Manao (fresh lime juice) at market stalls on Wualai Road.
$1.5
dinner
Try mango sticky rice and Thai iced tea from street vendors at the Saturday Night Market.
$2-3
Walking is easiest for these markets and breakfast spots. For farther trips use Grab taxis or red songthaews. Taxi cost about $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Near markets and local breakfast spots for quick access.

Dia 14Farewell and Reflection
Morning
Take a leisurely walk in old town

~2 hours

Spend a calm morning wandering Chiang Mai Old City’s quiet lanes, temples, and small shops. Perfect for reflecting on your trip and enjoying the authentic charm away from crowds.

Afternoon
Try local desserts at a market

~2 hours

Head to Warorot Market in the afternoon to sample local desserts including Khanom Buang and mango sticky rice. The market has a lovely bustling atmosphere with friendly vendors.

Meals

Lemongrass tea
breakfast$1.5

Start the day with lemongrass tea and Khanom Buang at a street stall in the Old City.

Lemongrass tea
Khao Soi
lunch$2-3

Enjoy a light meal of Khao Soi and Thai iced tea near Warorot Market.

Khao Soi
dinner
Sample local desserts like Mango sticky rice and fresh lime juice at Warorot Market stalls.
$2-3
Walking is best in the Old City today. For longer rides, use Grab taxis or red songthaews with fares around $0.5 per km.
Hostel in Old City (Chiang Mai's historic walled center)
$10-20/night

Ideal for a relaxing final day close to markets and old town sights.

Additional popular things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Curated tours, tickets, and activities recommended by travelers

Detalhamento do orçamento

Acomodação / noite$15
Alimentação / dia$6
Transporte / dia$2
Atividades / dia$2
Total diário$25
Total da viagem$350

Accommodation in hostels around $15 per night. Street food budget $1 per meal and some budget for occasional restaurant meal. Transport via songthaews, tuk-tuks and Grab taxis averaged at $2 per day. Modest daily activity expenses allocated to free or low cost local experiences.

Good to Know

Tap Water: Not safe to drink, use bottled or filtered water.
Transport: Use red songthaews and Grab taxis for cheap transport.
Daily Budget: About $25/day for backpacker budget.
Food: Street food is delicious and only about $1 per meal.
Walkability: Chiang Mai is walkable, great for exploring local markets and temples on foot.
Safety: Violent crime is low, but watch for traffic as safety rating is average.
Vaccines: Routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A and Typhoid recommended.
Taxi Apps: Grab and Bolt work best for local taxis.
Nature Access: Excellent access to nature and local outdoor activities.
Local Interaction: Residents are friendly and English proficiency is average, good for authentic experiences.

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