Temple Hopping, Thai Cooking, and Sticky Rice Dreams: A weekend in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai might mean “new city,” but it’s brimming with centuries of history and soul. Nestled at the foot of Thailand’s tallest mountains, this northern gem is a dreamy blend of tradition, serenity, and unforgettable flavors. We spent a perfect weekend exploring it by bike—because there’s no better way to soak up the magic of the old town than slowly pedaling through its quiet, temple-lined streets.

A City of a Hundred Temples

Chiang Mai is home to over 100 temples. That means wherever you turn, you’re likely to stumble upon a golden stupa or an intricately carved wooden façade glowing in the morning light.

Our top three favorites?

Wat Chiang Man – The oldest temple in Chiang Mai, with a peaceful courtyard and beautiful elephant statues.

Wat Chedi Luang – Grand, mysterious, and slightly crumbling in the most poetic way.

Wat Phra Singh – Elegance meets spirituality, especially at sunset.

Beyond the beauty, what really moved us were the little stories and rituals we witnessed:

Monks quietly caring for stray cats, dogs—even fish!

Shoes neatly lined up outside every entrance (always remove yours before stepping into a temple).

Locals feeding temple fish or offering food to monks to earn merit and balance their karma.

Women respectfully placing offerings on trays rather than handing them directly to monks (as women aren’t allowed to touch them).

Some temples even restrict women from entering certain inner sanctuaries.

Learning that many Thai Buddhists see being born a woman as karmic debt from past lives sparked some deeper reflection… and conversations.

Meanwhile, Up in the Hills...

While Nathalie and Perrine dove into a reflexology course in the city, the boys took off to explore Doi Suthep, the sacred mountain temple that towers over Chiang Mai. They hiked to waterfalls, discovered hidden jungle paths, and treated themselves to an epic lunch before reuniting for what might’ve been the culinary highlight of the trip.

Cooking Thai-Style at Zabb E Lee

With Fon’, the amazing instructor at Zabb E Lee Cooking School, we whipped up an entire Thai feast in a charming countryside kitchen, just for our little group. Here’s what we made (and devoured):

• Fresh Thai-style spring rolls (tofu & chicken versions)

• Spicy papaya salad and classic Pad Thai (shrimp!)

• Chicken with cashew nuts (crunchy, savory perfection)

• Creamy Massaman curry and fiery Panang curry with coconut milk

• Tom Kha Kai (coconut chicken soup) and Tom Yum Kung (hot and sour shrimp soup)

• And to finish on a sweet note: Mango sticky rice, of course.

All of it was served with cold beers, belly laughs, and the warm kind of hospitality that makes you wish the day would never end.

A Culinary Love Affair: Ajarn Saiyud’s Kitchen

We also found a new favorite restaurant in Chiang Mai: Ajarn Saiyud’s Kitchen. It’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The dishes look like little works of art, and every bite is a masterclass in flavor. Thoughtfully crafted, beautifully presented, and seriously delicious.

Final Thoughts

Chiang Mai wraps you in its calm, feeds you like royalty, and quietly teaches you about life, faith, and the value of slowing down. Whether you come for the temples, the cooking, or just to breathe cleaner mountain air—it’s a place that stays with you.

Let's book a call together to talk your trip over.

Perrine