If you would prefer a smaller and calmer counterpart compared to Bangkok, then Chiang Mai is the place for you to go and explore. At recent years, this city draws many backpackers from all over the world not to mention, retiring expatriates that choose Chiang Mai as a place to settle down. There is something about this authentic city that makes people keep on coming back after their first visit. The energy seems to haunt visitors to make a return.
Chiang Mai offers a myriad of interesting activities to be experienced by intrigued souls. From playing with friendly elephants, or dipping into rejuvenating waterfalls to historical and cultural temple visits, Chiang Mai screams adventure to its fellow visitors in many forms. Even though Chiang Mai is not an Islamic city, but there are many Muslim travellers who flock in the past few years to get a glimpse of what this city has to offer.
In today’s article, Tripfez has diligently listed out 12 interesting experience every Muslim should try out in Chiang Mai.
#1 Play with friendly elephants
Hello, Ellie! You must go to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary because it is soul-satisfying, fascinating and memorable! This is one of the very little elephant parks in this country that treats Mr Ellie humanely. There is no tricks, no performances, no riding, just mingle around with this friendly creature. Don’t forget to experience it on your own!
#2 Be rejuvenated at amazing waterfalls
Jump in and rejuvenate yourself! Known as the Bua Tong Waterfalls, the Sticky Waterfalls is a unique limestone feature that creates a non-slippery rock surface on which you can climb up against the cascading waterfalls. A superb experience for sure.
#3 Experience cheap Thai foot massage
The Thais are simply famous for their massages. So, there are a few reputable massage shops on Loi Kro Road that gives you a splendid half an hour Thai foot massage with a very cheap price. While doing so, enjoy people watching. Sometimes, you have to take the time to relax and enjoy the show during your fun travel.
#4 Study about the Northern Thai Lanna Culture
Located in the middle of the Old City is the Lanna Folk Museum. It used to be an ancient Royal residence but was transformed to a place that exhibits rich art and offers the insights of the vibrant Lanna Cultural of the northern Thai society. You can spend around an hour browsing the area and if you yearn for more, head over to the Cultural Arts Center which is just across the street.
#5 Temple tour is common, but chatting with the Monk? Awesome!
The Old City of Chiang Mai possesses over 300 temples. Among the many, one of the best is the Wat Chedi Luang which is situated in the heart of Chiang Mai and aside from the stunning architecture, you can even have a little chat with the monks. How awesome is that? Pretty cool!
#6 Explore Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar
If you are into bazaar or night market, then, head over to Chaing Mai’s Night Bazaar. It is one of the main evening attractions and not forgetting, it is also one of Thailand’s oldest night markets. Here, you can see a lot of food, souvenirs, and tourists testing their bargaining skills with the vendors. Quite an experience we have to say!
#7 Mae Ping River Cruise
Thailand is abundance with nature bliss, thus, hop on and experience a calm cruise along Mae Ping River that will give you a glimpse of what Chiang Mai’s subtle natural surroundings have to offer. This is a splendid way to shy away from a busy city exploration for a couple of hours.
#8 Have a try on Chiang Mai’s special Iced Tea
This drink is famously known among the locals as Cha Yen. This is indeed one of the most refreshing drinks you can have while exploring the tropical weather of Chiang Mai. This tea is special because it is made out of a brewed Ceylon tea which is sweetened and then topped with condensed milk. Don’t worry, you don’t need to find a specific restaurant to order one, you can find it almost anywhere! But, yes, don’t forget to try it out.
#9 Ride a Tuk-tuk
If the Philippines has its Tricycle or Jeepney and Malaysia has the ‘Beca’, then Chiang Mai has its Tuk-tuk! What is a Tuk-tuk? It is a three-wheeled motorized transport that you will see overly used around Chiang Mai. Please do not forget to ride one as they said, you haven’t been to Thailand if you haven’t taken a ride in a Tuk-tuk.
#10 Something out of ordinary, tour an umbrella factory
Situated approximately 8 kilometres southeast of Chiang Mai is an umbrella factory. It is located at Bo Sang Handicraft Centre and here you can see each detailed process of the umbrella making from start to finish. Something definitely interesting and not quite normal for a travel itinerary. So, give it a go!
#11 Explore the Doi Inthanon
Doi Inthanon is the highest peak in Thailand. The national park that surrounds it is filled with amazing natural beauties that attract many tourists to come over and visit! Here, you can opt to trek or hike the mountain, or perhaps just take a relaxing stroll around the park. You will see several waterfalls along the way. Don’t forget to snap pictures of the two Pagodas built to honour Queen Sirikit and King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
#12 Visit a Pure White Temple
We know Chiang Mai is all about temples. Like mentioned earlier, around 300 or more temples are scattered around Chiang Mai alone eluding the whole of Thailand. But we seriously think this particular temple is an exception needs to be highlighted. Located in Chiang Rai, the White Temple or Wat Rong Khun is an eccentric Buddhist Temple situated two and a half hours north of Chiang Mai. The whole building is really white and pure. It is superbly stunning and the white painting symbolizes purity.
After visiting some or maybe all of the above places, perhaps your tummy is growling and is ready to indulge in scrumptious delicacies in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai possesses many halal and Muslim-friendly restaurants for Muslim travellers. If you want to perform your prayers, visit some of the mosques scattered around Chiang Mai like Ban Ho Mosque and Attaqwa Mosque.
There you have it, fellow readers, 12 interesting experience every Muslim should try out in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Straightforward, informative and inviting. Don’t forget to go explore Chiang Mai and have a blast while doing so!