A Destination I will Always Want to Return and Will Always be on mu Go-To List!
#thailandtrip
Chiangmai will always hold a special place in my heart, and it’s a city I’ll keep returning to again and again. The architecture alone is enough to make it a must-visit destination. Lanna-style buildings and temples are simply mesmerizing. The Ho Kham Pavilion in Rajapreuk Park, with its majestic and intricate design, and the Silver Temple (Wat Sri Suphan), gleaming in the sunlight with its detailed silver carvings, are just two examples of the city’s rich architectural heritage. The way these structures embody the essence of Lanna craftsmanship and culture is breathtaking. Every corner of these places tells a story about the kingdom that once ruled this northern region of Thailand, and it always leaves me in awe.
But it’s not just the architecture that draws me back. Chiangmai is also a haven for food lovers, and I can never get enough of the local cuisine. Dishes like khao soi, with its rich coconut curry broth and crispy noodles, northern-style larb with its spicier, more herbaceous kick compared to its Isan counterpart, the savory-sweet hung lay curry, and the smoky, flavorful sai oua (northern Thai sausage) are some of my all-time favorites. Each dish reflects the deep culinary traditions of the region, shaped by its history and geography, and every meal in Chiangmai feels like a celebration of the senses.
Another thing I love about Chiangmai is its seasonal surprises. Throughout the year, you’re bound to stumble upon different fruits in season, whether it’s the sweet strawberries in cooler months or the tangy gooseberries. The variety and freshness make every visit feel unique, no matter how many times I’ve been before.
One of the things that makes Chiangmai truly stand out is its distinct Lanna culture. A visit to the city’s museums, such as the Lanna Folklife Museum or Chiang Mai National Museum, reveals a wealth of knowledge about this northern kingdom and how it differs from other regions of Thailand. The Lanna people have their own dialect, traditional music, dance, and even clothing, which contrasts with the Central Thai, Isan, and Southern Thai cultures. Where the central region might be known for its grand temples and royal history, or Isan for its agricultural roots and folk music, the Lanna people celebrate their heritage with a deep connection to the mountains, a slower pace of life, and spiritual practices that often feel more closely tied to nature. Visiting these museums allows tourists to dive deep into the unique customs, beliefs, and traditions that make Lanna culture so special.
Ultimately, Chiangmai offers a complete package—stunning architecture, mouthwatering food, a vibrant cultural scene, and the beauty of nature all around. Whether it’s strolling through its centuries-old temples, savoring a bowl of khao soi, or learning more about the Lanna kingdom, there’s always something new to discover. For these reasons, Chiangmai will always be on my go-to list!