This had been the most relaxing trip ever with my new-found Team Healing gang.
Our destination: Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai is a great place to heal and nourish your weary mind and soul. Located in North Thailand, the cool weather will be a breath of fresh air. Besides that, the serene view of nature and mountainous landscape will give you peace of mind.
Fret not if you are the type to feel energized through activities. There are plenty of things to do, from nature trails to thrill rides, trendy cafes, and farms.
Note: Chiang Mai is known for its history and culture, but we will not be exploring the old city in this post.
Accommodation
The main reason for our visit to Chiang Mai: nai r kaad
The drive from the city to the mountains took at least an hour. The weather became cooler, and ears might be blocked due to the pressure difference along the way. You could also spot plenty of cafes and restaurants driving through the valley road.
The Mae Rim district has a lot of accommodation options, so it really depends on what you are looking for. We decided on nai r kaad for the aesthetic room and view.
At nai r kaad, enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and farmland. You can catch the farmers in the morning pick tea leaves from a vantage point.
Photo Credit: Lina
Room Review: Gable Roof Villa
The room was peaceful, rustic, and modern. Peaceful because you are disconnected from a TV or telephone (you could message them on LINE app). One reason could be their weak network reception and electricity. The interior followed a minimal wood design with an open cabinet.
If you want to stare into nature all day, this is perfect. You have a full view of the mountains from the bed, the balcony, and the bathroom. They placed the bathtub right in front of the glass wall and adorned it with a chandelier above. The high ceilings and glass windows also made the modest room look spacious.
Photo Credit (Left): Lina
The best part of the room would be the balcony! It has a low railing for safety, but you could actually stretch your legs over, and the houses in front do not block the view.
Guests can have breakfast and dinner on the balcony. The staff will carry the whole course up the slope and set it up meticulously in your room. That was pretty cool.
The food is not certified halal, but you can request no pork or no meat. The dishes are simple and bland, with condiments provided to suit your personal taste. The yoghurt during breakfast was super tasty. They also serve a pot of tea during teatime which was absolutely lovely! Bring your own supply of snacks if you need supper, as the nearby shops close at 8pm.
The main issue to consider is safety. The toilet door has no lock and is accessible through the balcony. Insects would also fly into the toilet at night, though they will be gone in the day. There was also no safe box, and people could peek into the room through the window at our eye level, especially since the curtains were short. If you are comfortable with this, then nai r kaad is a good getaway from the bustling city life.
Address: M.7, Tambon Mea Ram, Amphur, Mae Ram, Mae Rim, Chiang Mai Province, 50180, Thailand
Nimano Suites
We stayed in the Deluxe Twin Room for one night.
Contrary to nai r kaad, there was a smart TV, and the Wi-Fi and air conditioning were a lot stronger. Alas, the window view was not that pretty. You win some, you lose some. The room was humble and clean, with breakfast included.
Overall, the hotel has a strategic location – the popular area, Nimman, but at a smaller alley, so you get some peace and quiet.
The nearby street was filled with cafes, bars and various boutique shops. It was also walking distance to MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center Chiang Mai and One Nimman.
Getting There
Scoot has a direct flight from Singapore to Chiang Mai. We arrived on a morning flight and departed late afternoon. There were one or two halal food places at the airport. Immigration was really fast and smooth both ways, as both sides use e-gates.
Weather
We travelled to Chiang Mai end-July 2024, and during this time, the temperature is cool in the countryside, with the right amount of sun. It also comes with frequent rain showers, especially in the morning. July is low season, so we barely saw tourists around.
Getting Around
We engaged a van rental with driver included for the first two days and one additional trip back to town, though we eventually extended it to three days by Day 2. The quoted price included the price of fuel. The van was huge and clean, and there were also ice-cold water provided.
The driver could not speak much English, so we communicated through the phone or body language. He was really kind and friendly and tried his best to give us the best experience in Chiang Mai. Unfortunately for him, most of the places we wanted to visit were also his first visit, and the narrow, unpaved, uneven roads were challenging to navigate the large van up and down. It was definitely an adventure in itself!
We mostly spotted locals in the countryside riding motorcycles, even if they carried bulky items. It is best to be back in your accommodation before the sun sets in the countryside, as the roads are not well lit. In the city center, we used Grab to get around.
Itinerary
Sharing the itinerary in this manner to preserve the healing essence of the trip, though it should be complemented with good company, of course!
Day 1 (Saturday)
Jing Jai Market
As soon as we touched down, we headed to the lively open-air market. It was clean, well-organised, and easy to stroll around. They were super big on recycling, which was pretty cool.
We explored the stalls first, which sold various handmade or local goods. They range from clothes, bags, soaps, candles, perfume balm, hair sanitizers, and vintage jewelry.
We walked past an art gallery before reaching the sheltered farmer’s market that sold organic fruits, vegetables, and food. Was quite pleased to see halal food and Muslim-friendly options here. Bought a fried taro-tofu-vegetarian spring roll combo, which was so delicious. It felt like they used premium ingredients and clean frying oil. There was also halal chicken biryani and dim sum! We bought fruits and drinks too.
We then continued exploring the nearby boutique, souvenir, and handicraft stores. There were things like body soaps, locally designed clothes and jewelry, sculptures, super cute stickers, and more. There were also thrift stores and second-hand goods being sold.
We were there around midday, so there were not many coffee trucks left. The trucks were scattered around the corner with tiny stools available for customers. But we were spoilt with many other drink options too.
Address: 46 Atsadathon Rd, Pa Tan Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
Big C Extra Chiangmai 2
I love Big C Extra, since the hypermarket basically has everything including cute bags, shirts, shoes, household items, even phones.
So far, all the Big C Extra I’ve visited in Thailand has a dedicated section on halal products, and there are a variety of snacks with the halal logo, even if they were not located in that section. Remember to bring your own reusable bags.
Being a fangirl, it was also fun to spot the celebrity product endorsements!
There were other stores in the same building including a pharmacy, Watsons (managed to get some of Thai makeup that I wanted here yay), Mr DIY, a spectacles shop, electronics, clothes etc.
There was also a Food Park, and their everyday restaurants like KFC and MK restaurant. Get snacks like Mister Donut too!
Address: 94 หมู่ที่ 4 Lampang – Chiang Mai Superhighway, Nong Pa Khrang Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
WTF Coffee Camp
After like a 45-minute journey through smaller towns, winding lanes, and endless greenery, we finally reached WTF Coffee Camp. Once you pay the entrance fee, you will be able to camp for as long as you want at the ample seats and photo spots. The area was clean with well-designed walkways.
Upon reaching the place, the way it was named suddenly clicked. If you are familiar with Thai, the locals have their versions of Singlish or Konglish. (For example, they have terms like ‘migaine’ and ‘officesyndrome’ for describing body pains.)
WTF was referring to the impressive WaTerFall in the vicinity. The running waterfall cascaded down the wide river stream filled with stones and huge rocks. Guests can dip and play in the river stream too.
For those who do not want to get wet, there are “camping tents” along the greenery and shaded by the trees along the slope. The cafe name literally described the place. For those who prefers a modern touch, the outdoor seating areas along the cafe also provide a different aesthetic for your Instagram photos.
Located near the entrance, you could also relax above the riverbed on a netted seat.
Once you are ready to sit down, visit the Casa Lapin for drinks and cakes. Do show your entry ticket for discounts. There is also pasta and pizza available at WTF Coffee Camp.
The wide spaces made it feel like it was not crowded even with people around. All in all, this cafe hidden in the Mae Rim-Samoeng area had a great, relaxing atmosphere—perfect to unwind.
Address: 192 หมู่ที่ 1 ถนนแม่ริม – สะเมิง Pong Yaeng, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
Fangirl note: This was also near the Samoeng Viewpoint, a beautiful landmark that was featured in a Thai series between a medical examiner and a village resident.
Day 2 (Sunday)
Note: Crowd on weekends was crazy. Best to visit on weekdays!
Ying Yong Flower Garden
Ying Yong Flower Garden was located at a quaint hidden slope. Located in the Mon Jam area in Mae Rim, you pay a tiny entry fee to visit the flower beds. It was not blooming season when we were there, but having the mountains and clouds as the background was pretty great.
There were gaps between each flower bed for visitors to explore and get close-up shots with the flowers. White flowers were present, but I’ve seen red and purple flowers on socials too. You could also walk around via the white metal bridge. Since it was windy, you can feel the bridge shaking a little, but despite how it looks, it was quite sturdy.
Complete your visit with the open roof on top of the hut for gorgeous, calming views for your soul.
Getting here was quite an adventure. We spotted the signboard that pointed to this narrow, rocky slope, which only had bushes and empty land. The van was too wide for the path, but our driver took up the challenge and drove us slowly (so we don’t overturn and die). The farm said there was no other alternative.
We then thought we were safe when we finally saw a cemented road beside a stretch of fields, with a rabbit! Alas, we drove to a standstill because a car did not want to give way on the one-lane road, even after we tried explaining that there was not enough space to do a three-point turn. Eventually, our skillful driver got us out of that.
It would be easier to stay in the area (which has many other pretty homestays, resorts, and glamping sites) to visit this flower garden.
Address: ยิ่งยงสวนดอกไม้, Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
Jin Ju Orange Farm Mae Rim
Jin Ju Orange Farm had the most tasty and freshest orange juice ever! Walk cluelessly until you see a small shed, marked as the entrance. You can pick up props like aprons, baskets, and tools after paying the admission fee. You could also buy back oranges harvested by the farm if you want!
Once you enter the orchard, spot the cute little cottage cafe that sold freshly squeezed orange juice and orange-infused drinks. Seats are provided nearby – a makeshift veranda with cute vintage props. There were also other unique seating areas scattered all around the orchard.
Apart from appreciating the orange trees, you could spot different flowers like roses, gerbera, sunflowers, and even wild berries. You could pick the flowers at an additional cost. We were super lucky it did not rain then.
Photo Credit (Left & Right photos): Lina
One thing that was exciting about Jin Ju was the “photo treasure hunt”. The naturally gorgeous backdrop of the rolling hills was complemented with various sets – only if you explore every crook and cranny. They had hidden spaces with swings, ladders, stools, wooden platforms, paintings, and more.
This was a working farm, so expect wild overgrown bushes, rustic set-ups, and insects attracted to the flower pollen! Do note that it was not ripe orange season in July.
Getting here was not so easy either because there were no English signs or pictures to lead you to the orange farm.
Address: 93 1, Tambon Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
Pong Yaeng Jungle Coaster & Zipline
This was an adventure park with activities like jungle coaster, jungle bike, giant swing, high elements, and even a VR-coaster.
We only wanted to try the Jungle Coaster, but the queue stretched so long (about 40-minute wait). Luckily, they used a token system, so we could just bring the tokens another day to ride it! More on that below.
Address: 99 9 Pong Yaeng, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
River Rock Cafe Hill
The cafe was located across a river stream situated along the road. You had to walk across a suspension bridge to get to the seating platforms overlooking the river. Alas, it was too crowded and they were not able to take us in. But our accommodation was our biggest healing space, so no biggie.
Address: 83/1 หมู่9 แม่แรม Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
7-Eleven
We made a pit stop for snacks, drinks, and other essentials. The halal CP brand sausages were so good! We also bought instant green curry that included rice, and we only needed water to heat up, and tried out the well-advertised Euro Cake (GMMTV, looking at you!). These two weren’t so nice, unfortunately.
Address: VRRM+RFF, Pong Yaeng, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
แสงเหนือแคมป์ปิ้ง Saengnua Camping บริการที่พัก บนดอยม่อนแจ่ม
We then explored the area near our accommodation. There was a small cafe to get drinks and snacks. The view, with pink milk, and good company: best healing combo.
Address: 71 ม.3, Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
ม่อนล้านวิว
We walked down the slope to the main street and found this humorous grandma grilling corn, sweet potato, and sticky yam. We conversed mainly through body language.
We tried this grilled taro sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves. We were unfamiliar with it, so she animatedly demonstrated how she made it and how to eat it. We tried it on the spot!
The texture was sticky and chewy with a muted yam taste. It was more flavorful when dipped in coconut milk. It was quite funny because at the end, she said we cannot eat too much of this because it will make our chest big and saggy.
There were lots of small cafes around, and other lodging in the midst of being built.
Address: ม่อนล้านวิว ม่อนแจ่ม 13 หมู่ 11 Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
Day 3 (Monday)
After checking out, we popped by Jungle Coaster for the ride.
Pong Yaeng Jungle Coaster & Zipline
There was literally no queue and we immediately boarded the jungle coaster after passing through the token gantry. There was a short safety briefing before they let us have fun on the track. The circuit offered stunning views and an exciting ride as it winds, dips, and bends, emulating the natural curves of the forest. The ride takes about 6 minutes, including a photo capture towards the end.
It was so fun that I bought the tokens again for a second ride! There is also a vantage point for onlookers.
Tip: Buying on Klook is cheaper, especially if you use the discounts and coins.
Address: 99 9 Pong Yaeng, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center Chiangmai
Can shopping heal you? I certainly think so.
MAYA was a pretty decent shopping mall. It had a good variety of local brands and items. There was Asia Books, Eve and Boy, Boots, Gentlewoman, Mistine and more. There were boutiques, gift shops, a cinema, and even a self-photo studio with super cute concepts and plenty of props!
There was halal food at the food court, and plenty of snacks on every floor. After the shopping and food, we chilled outside the arcade to see a professional gamer doing his thing.
More fangirl spotting things:
Address: 55 หมู่ที่ 5 Huay Kaew Rd, Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
One Nimman
Finally managed to get some kanom krok (vegetarian) at the food fair at One Nimman! There were also more food options at One Market, cafes and bars if you walked further in.
It had a similar feel to Hong Kong’s Tai Kwun, with open-air spaces, and a plaza surrounded by red brick walls with modern design elements. The hub has a very adventure-lifestyle-outdoor kind of shops, with local crafts and boutique stores.
Fangirl note: This was also a filming site for a drama series about an ER doctor whose time rewinds and repeats until he saves a specific patient!
Address: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Takawa Halal Cuisine @ Chiang Mai
The restaurant provides a selection of your favorite Thai and Western meals in a sophisticated yet cozy air-conditioned setting. The restaurant was located along a quiet alley, but luckily it was the right place!
Address: Chiang Mai Land 10 Alley, Tambon Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Taking it to the streets, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar was truly bustling with tourists.
Was quite surprised to see a lot of halal food stalls at the building landmark of the Bazaar! A pity that we were too full to try out them out. I didn’t have the chance to try Khao soi during this trip too, which is a Northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup speciality.
The night bazaar sold an array of T-shirts, dresses, pants, local crafts, jewelry, household items, bookmarks, shoes, bags, electronics, watches, sunglasses and more. Do expect to see similar stalls, but no matter what, always find a chance to bargain!
As you walk, there will also be people selling boxing match tickets. That was not my ideal of healing, but it could be for someone else.
Address: Changklan Rd, Chang Moi Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Anusarn Night Market
We arrived at Anusarn Night Market after walking down the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, so they were all walking distance to one another.
Besides the snacks and Cabaret marketing at the entrance, walk further in to catch talented Thais in action. There were many artists drawing portraits and selling their artworks. Their hands were all dirty from the pencil lead or paint, and were focused on creating their art.
There were lots of crocheted items, plush toys, notebooks, bags, wallets and other handicrafts. Some of them were knitting so effortlessly on the spot to make the products.
Fangirl note: This market is near Khua Lek (Iron Bridge), a landmark with a fusion of traditional Thai craftsmanship and modern elements. Heard the sunset and food vendors here were a vibe. It was also a filming spot for one of my favourite 2024 Thai drama about an architect who found himself in the past when he was renovating a house that he had connections to.
We also passed by the Tha Phae Gate at night on the way back to Nimman. The gate is also a common filming spot for lakorns and visited by celebrities if they visit Chiang Mai.
Address: Q2M3+22J, Anusan Sunthon Rd, Chang Khlan Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
PHAPLOEN MARKET : พาเพลินมาร์เก็ต
The Phaploen market was not as big as the previous two markets, mainly because this market is centered on food. There was a central dining area, surrounded by food and live music, which had a range of Thai food and international food, as well as vegetarian dishes.
Address: Q2P2+M73, Chang Moi Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Blue Coffee At Nimman
If you have Blue Bottle in Hong Kong, you have Blue Coffee in Chiang Mai!
A coffee franchise, the cafe has two floors and an open counter. Alongside the modern, minimalistic interior, the drinks here were tasty and sweet. They also sold cakes and merchandise.
The cafe opens till 1am and was a short walking distance from our hotel. Healing can be done in many forms – by nourishing our souls through late-night drinks and chats.
Address: Thailand, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Nimmanahaeminda Road, Component Lab
Day 4 (Tuesday)
Win Plus By Win Cosmetics
A store selling health and beauty products at really affordable prices since they are catered for the locals, Win Plus is doing it right! There were both international and local brands. You can find items like creams, shampoo, make-up, powder, skincare, inhalers, body patches, body balms, medicine, and even cooling mist.
Was introduced to this Pastel Balm Stick Massage Wax by my cousin, and oh my gosh, great buy for its portable size, and easy application. My dad used it up so quickly and even asked for more. Also tried out the Therma Plast’s heat patches, and it was cheap for its quality, which stay heated even after 12 hours since opening the pack!
After visiting Bangkok, I realised the drugstore items sold in Chiang Mai were much cheaper and easily available. I did not actually spot a Win Plus in Bangkok.
Address: 4 Nimmanahaeminda Road, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Looper Wave
My fangirl heart was complete after a visit to Tay Tawan & Fam’s Looper Wave Cafe. We spotted his family portrait at the cafe! Located on the second floor, the cafe was decorated in black, grey, and white tones, with cushioned seats and huge windows that overlooked a swimming pool. You could also get a better view at the cafe’s balcony.
In the day, it is a cafe with cartoon screenings projected on its wall, but it turns into a bar in the evening, with occasional live DJ sets.
The drinks here were quite tasty, and we got macarons as well. It was a great place to chill and take photos. Customers used the CD players and space to do remote work as well. The lush surroundings offered a great backdrop for relaxation.
The place felt almost like a community centre, because there was also an onsen, hammocks, and a homestay. I even spotted someone playing on the trampoline.
The place is actually located at an alley near housing estates, but absolutely no regrets squeezing time to visit this cafe.
Address: 144/49 ซอยอยู่เย็น หมู่ 2 ถนนลัดดาแลนด์, เมือง, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
Chiang Mai International Airport
Alas, it was time to head back. There are amenities like prayer rooms for Buddhists and Muslims available on the second floor. There were quite a few food options at the airport, including Potato Corner (Halal-certified). Do have a heavy meal before the departure gates.
We hung out at Black Canyon Coffee & Eatery for our final meal before trudging our way through immigration.
The waiting area was quite spacious, filled with some duty-free shops as well as massage shops.
Address: 60 Thanon Mahidol, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
While the itinerary is not the most all-encompassing trip for Chiang Mai, it was a great starter to exploring the countryside and the city. Definitely coming back for more, Chiang Mai!
Uminsummer 
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