6-Day Adventure in North, Central, and South Thailand: Explore Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket
During my visit to Thailand in November 2022, I had the opportunity to explore three distinct regions of the country: the northern city of Chiang Mai, the central region's bustling capital, Bangkok, and the southern paradise of Phuket. In this article, I'm excited to share my unforgettable travel experiences from each of these incredible destinations.
Thailand is a welcoming and vibrant country in Southeast Asia, known as the "Land of Smiles." It offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern culture, with something to offer every traveler. Chiang Mai, located in the mountains of northern Thailand, is a charming city known for its vibrant culture and stunning natural scenery. Bangkok, the bustling capital city, is a metropolis that never sleeps, with ancient landmarks, vibrant street markets, and exciting nightlife. Phuket, a tropical paradise in southern Thailand, boasts pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for those seeking an escape from everyday life.
Visiting Thailand is a simple process as all you need is a passport to enter the country. You can easily book flights through traveloka.com or accommodations through agoda.com. Additionally, you can book tours and tickets to attractions at klook.com. Thai people are good at English, especially in markets, shops, restaurants, and hotels. Motorbike rentals are available, however, you should obtain an international driving license to legally drive on the streets in case of traffic police checks (motorcycle rental companies may not require it). One important thing to keep in mind is that traffic in Thailand drives on the left-hand side.
Ready for an awesome photo-viewing experience? Head on over to https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2271721766308471 to see snaps of the trip! Get ready to be transported right back to those amazing moments.
THE FIRST DAY
I boarded a Vietjet direct flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai, which took approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival, I headed to the motorbike rental shop via taxi, before making my way to the B2 Premier Hotel and Resort, which I had previously booked through Agoda. My first stop was the beautiful Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep temple, followed by a delicious dinner at Three Kings Square.
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is a revered Buddhist temple located on a mountaintop in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Built-in 1383 to enshrine a piece of bone from the Buddha's shoulder, the temple is renowned for its ornate architecture, including a golden chedi and various other structures, as well as breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. Visitors can access the temple by climbing 309 steps or taking a cable car. It is considered one of the most important and sacred temples in northern Thailand and is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep offers visitors a chance to admire the temple's striking architecture while enjoying stunning panoramic views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding countryside. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by vendors selling souvenirs, food, and drinks, making it a fun and exciting destination. Ultimately, a visit to the temple provides a memorable experience that combines cultural significance, natural beauty, and architectural splendor.
Three Kings Square and Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai are popular destinations for travelers looking to experience the local culture and cuisine. The area is renowned for its bustling night markets, which offer a vast array of street food, souvenirs, and traditional Thai handicrafts, live music performances, dance shows, and street performances, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a lively and authentic experience of Thai culture.
THE SECOND DAY
On the second day of the trip, I visited Pha Chor in the morning, followed by Wat Ku Tao temple in the afternoon, and ended the day at the Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lanterns Festival in the evening. Klook.com offers tours to these attractions, but it's important to note that Sky Lanterns Festival is an annual event that takes place exclusively in Chiang Mai and only once a year. The festival is scheduled for November 27 and 28 in 2023, and more information about booking tickets can be found at https://www.lanternfestivalchiangmai.com/en/product/chiangmai-cad-khomloy-sky-lantern-festival-27-28-november-2023/.
Pha Chor, nestled in Northern Thailand near Chiang Mai, is a natural wonder that was molded over millions of years by the Ping River's tireless erosion of limestone and soil. This once-ordinary hill has now become a hot tourist spot for its outrageous and stunning rock formations that tower over 30 meters high and stretch across a vast area. The place is enclosed by dense groves of trees that add to its rugged and enigmatic vibe. Pha Chor is part of Mae Wang National Park, a perfect haven for adventurous souls looking for hiking and climbing excitement. The place is super accessible, thanks to its newly renovated paths with safety railings for visitors. And let's not forget the spectacular panoramic views from the top that are simply breathtakingly majestic. Pha Chor Gorge is an absolute crowd-pleaser, ideal for bonding with family and friends while embarking on a unique and unconventional adventure. Visitors can also explore the serene Mae Wong river, where they can chow down on mouthwatering food and drinks at the riverside eateries while taking in the peaceful ambiance, an idyllic escape from the city's clamor and chaos.
During the trip, the guide brought me to various temples in Thailand. Since the names of the temples were in Thai, I naturally couldn't recall all of them.
Wat Ku Tao is a small and charming temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The temple is known for its unique architecture, which includes a chedi made of earthenware tiles and a teak wood vihara. Visitors can also find a large Buddha statue inside the temple. Wat Ku Tao is located near the city center and can easily be reached. It is often visited as part of a temple-hopping tour around Chiang Mai.
The Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lanterns Festival is a unique and spectacular event that takes place annually in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The festival features thousands of sky lanterns or Khomloys, which are released into the night sky, creating a stunning sight. These lanterns are traditionally used in Thailand to make wishes or send messages to the gods. The festival also includes cultural performances, traditional Thai food, and music. Visitors can watch the sky fill with light and color from the ground. The festival has gained international recognition and is considered one of the most significant events in Thailand, attracting thousands of tourists each year. If you are planning to attend this festival, be sure to book in advance as the event is only held once a year, and tickets can sell out quickly. Additionally, be respectful of the cultural significance of the festival and follow safety guidelines when participating.
As a Vietnamese, I find Thai cuisine to be extremely appetizing and flavorful. When visiting Northern Thailand, it is highly recommended to try the local specialty, Khao Soi.
THE THIRD DAY
On the morning of the third day, I visited the Wat Chedi Luang temple, which boasts impressive Maya ancient architecture. After exploring the temple, I boarded a plane to fly to Bangkok. In the evening, I had dinner and participated in various activities at Khao San street, one of the most vibrant and lively spots in Bangkok.
Wat Chedi Luang is a historic temple located in the old city of Chiang Mai, Thailand. It was built in the 14th century and has undergone several changes over the years, including significant damage during an earthquake in the 16th century. The temple features an impressive chedi that stands over 80 meters tall, which was once one of the tallest structures in ancient Chiang Mai. Visitors can explore the temple complex, which includes several smaller temples and shrines, as well as a museum that showcases the history and artifacts of the temple. Additionally, visitors can witness the daily monk chanting ceremonies or attend the popular weekly Sunday evening chanting and meditation session.
Khao San Road is a well-known backpacker area located in the Banglamphu neighborhood of Bangkok, Thailand. It is a vibrant and bustling street that is popular among both locals and tourists. The street is filled with numerous shops, restaurants, bars, street vendors, and guesthouses catering to budget travelers. Khao San Road is particularly famous for its nightlife, with many bars and clubs open until the early hours of the morning. In addition, the street is known for its shopping scene, with a wide variety of goods available, including clothing, souvenirs, accessories, and electronics. Visitors can also find massage parlors, tattoo shops, and travel agencies offering tours and transportation to various destinations. The market is especially lively during the night, with vendors selling street food, drinks, and snacks. Overall, Khao San Road is a must-visit destination for budget travelers and backpackers looking for a unique and vibrant experience in Bangkok.
THE FORTH DAY
On the fourth day, I began my journey by visiting two temples - Wat Traimit and Wat Arun - before taking a flight from Bangkok to Phuket. Later in the evening, I enjoyed the Phuket Fantasy show.
Wat Traimit is a Buddhist temple in Bangkok, Thailand, famous for its Golden Buddha statue. The statue, made of solid gold, weighs 5.5 tons and is the largest of its kind in the world. The temple also houses a museum that provides insight into the history of Buddhism in Thailand. The temple's architecture is a blend of Thai and Chinese styles, and it is considered one of the oldest and most important temples in Bangkok.
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a Buddhist temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, Thailand. The temple is famous for its impressive Khmer-style tower, called a prang, which is decorated with colorful pieces of Chinese porcelain and seashells. Visitors can climb the steep steps of the prang for panoramic views of the river and city skyline. Wat Arun is also home to a number of other smaller temples and pavilions, as well as a large courtyard where visitors can relax and take in the temple's intricate architecture. The temple is particularly stunning at sunset when the prang is illuminated against the backdrop of the colorful sky.
Phuket Fantasy Show is a popular cultural performance that showcases Thailand's rich cultural heritage through colorful and lively performances. The show features traditional Thai dances, music, acrobatics, and elaborate costumes, all set against stunning stage designs and special effects. The show takes place in a large theater with a capacity of over 3,000 people and runs for about 70 minutes. In addition to the main show, there are also pre-show activities, such as elephant rides and traditional Thai village demonstrations. The Phuket Fantasy Show is a must-see for those interested in experiencing Thai culture and entertainment.
THE FIFTH DAY
I spent the entire fifth day on a day tour to Khai Nai Island, Pileh Lagoon, and Phi Phi Island from Phuket via speedboat, which I booked beforehand through https://klook.com. The tour company picked me up from my hotel and took me to the boat dock, and I had a wonderful experience on this trip with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide accompanying us throughout. Later in the evening, I engaged in exciting activities at Patong street.
At 7:00 in the morning, I was picked up from my hotel to begin the tour. Upon arriving at the Seastar pier Leam Nga, Phuket, I was greeted by the Seastar team and served snacks and drinks. At 9:00, we departed from the pier and headed towards Phi Phi Island, where we stopped at Pileh Lagoon to swim and relax. We then had lunch at a beachside restaurant on Phi Phi Don Island (Ton Sai Bay) and had free time on the beach. Next, we visited Monkey Beach and Viking cave for sightseeing and photo-taking, followed by a stop at Maya Bay, where the movie "The Beach" was filmed. At 4:00, we arrived at Khai Nai Island, where we had the chance to relax on the white sandy beach or swim. We returned to Phuket at 4:30 and arrived at the Seastar pier at 5:00, before being taken back to my hotel.
Phi Phi Island is a popular destination in Thailand known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant marine life. The island is located in the Andaman Sea and consists of two main islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. Phi Phi Don is the larger of the two islands and has several beaches and accommodations for tourists, while Phi Phi Leh is smaller and uninhabited. Some of the most popular activities on Phi Phi Island include snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and island hopping tours.
Maya Bay, located on the island of Phi Phi Leh, is a stunningly beautiful bay with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and towering limestone cliffs. The beach gained worldwide fame after being featured in the Leonardo DiCaprio movie, "The Beach," and is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand.
Tourists can spend their time on the beach sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling in the turquoise waters, surrounded by colorful marine life. The area is also great for diving and exploring the stunning coral reefs that are home to a wide range of marine species.
In addition to the natural beauty of Maya Bay, visitors can also enjoy the unique experience of watching the sunset over the cliffs, creating a breathtaking sight that is sure to leave a lasting impression. The beach is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Thailand, offering an unforgettable tropical paradise experience.
Patong Beach is the most popular and busiest tourist destination in Phuket. It offers a lively and bustling atmosphere with a variety of activities, restaurants, bars, and shopping areas. Bangla Road is the center of Patong's nightlife and is famous for its neon lights, music, and entertainment. It features numerous beer bars, nightclubs, and live music venues that cater to all tastes. Visitors can also enjoy Thai street food and shop for souvenirs, clothes, and accessories at the night markets. Patong Beach itself is a wide, sandy beach with crystal-clear waters and a range of water sports activities available. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the sun during the day, and to party and have fun at night.
THE SIXTH DAY
After a wild night at Patong Beach, I hit the road after 9 AM to hit up some spots, including Big C supermarket, to snag some souvenirs. Once I stuffed my face with lunch, I jetted off on a direct flight from Phuket to Ho Chi Minh City, wrapping up my epic 6-day adventure through North, Central, and South Thailand.
The distance from Patong beach to the airport is further than the distance between my ex and me. And let me tell you, the taxi here is cheaper than the grab car service. To make it on time, it's recommended to take a taxi as soon as possible since the travel distance can take nearly an hour or longer, depending on traffic congestion.
You can start your exploration of Chiang Mai by visiting ancient temples, experiencing local night markets, and engaging in outdoor activities such as zip-lining and elephant riding. In Bangkok, witness bustling city life and visit famous landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Traimit. Experience vibrant nightlife in Patong, see the beauty of the Phuket Fantasy Show and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches of Phuket by speedboat tour. There are also exciting activities to participate in at the Patong Beach Bangla Walking Street. Overall, Thailand's North, Central, and South regions offer a great mix of cultural exploration, adventure, and relaxation. You are sure to enjoy your trip there.
