Lyla Dejesus
Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a popular honeymoon destination for couples seeking a blend of history, adventure, and romance. Nestled along the Ping River and surrounded by the Himalayan mountain ranges, Chiang Mai offers a unique mix of rural life and urban buzz. From exploring ancient temples and zip-lining through treetops to dining by candlelight, Chiang Mai promises an unforgettable honeymoon experience. The city boasts a vibrant nightlife, with options ranging from rave cave nightclubs to chilled reggae spots and jazz bars. For nature lovers, the Doi Suthep National Park and the Mae Sa Waterfall offer intimate picnic spots and scenic treks. With its exotic allure, Chiang Mai is the perfect choice for a laid-back, yet captivating honeymoon getaway.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Chiang Mai, Thailand |
| Surroundings | Set along the Ping River, surrounded by Himalayan mountain ranges and countryside |
| Accessibility | Accessible by a 16-hour nonstop flight from LA and a 20-hour nonstop flight from NY |
| Transport | Songthaews, tuk-tuks, taxis and motorbikes |
| Language | Thai |
| Accommodation | Howie's Homestay, Shangri-La Chiang Mai, Tamarind Village, RatiLanna Riverside Spa Resort, 137 Pillars |
| Food | Khao Soi Khun Yai, Khao Soi Mae Sai, Rajdarbar Indian Restaurant, Taste From Heaven, Bodhi Tree, Mr Green |
| Activities | Visiting temples, ziplining, kayaking, canoeing, wakeboarding, riding elephants, lounging with tigers, shopping, massages |
| Nightlife | Zoe in Yellow, Roots Rock Reggae Bar, John's Place, Freedom Bar, The North Gate Jazz Co-Op |
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What You'll Learn
Adventure and romance in nature
Chiang Mai is a great honeymoon destination for those seeking history, adventure, and romance in nature. The ancient city, set along the Ping River and surrounded by the Himalayan mountain ranges and countryside, offers a unique blend of rural life and city buzz.
For nature lovers, the Doi Suthep National Park is a must-visit. The park is home to the majestic Wat Phrathat That Doi Suthep, a Buddhist temple that rests on a mountain nine miles outside the city. The temple, adorned with pagodas, statues, and shrines, reflects aspects of Buddhism and Hinduism and offers a peaceful day trip. The 309-step trek to the temple provides a panoramic view of the city, unlike any other in Thailand.
Adventure-seeking couples can explore the Grand Canyon Water Park, Chiang Mai's biggest inflatable water park. The park offers a range of activities, including kayaking, ziplining, canoeing, and wakeboarding, with incredible panoramic views. Another adventurous activity is a visit to the Elephant Nature Park, where you can spend quality time with elephants and learn about their rescue and rehabilitation.
For a romantic nature experience, head to Mae Sa in Doi Suthep National Park. Mae Sa is an 8-tier waterfall nestled in the Mae Sa Valley. Couples can traverse through the jungle paths, wade in the water beneath the cascades, and enjoy a romantic picnic in this intimate location surrounded by nature.
Chiang Mai also offers a range of accommodation options for couples seeking a natural and romantic escape. Howie's HomeStay, a majestic boutique hotel, provides a secluded stay adorned with lush tropical gardens and views of the surrounding area. The RatiLanna Riverside Spa Resort is another serene option, offering luxury and convenience along a tranquil riverbank.
The city also boasts vibrant nightlife, with something to suit every honeymooner's preference. From rave cave nightclubs to chilled reggae spots and jazz bars, there is plenty to explore after dark.
With its blend of nature, adventure, romance, and nightlife, Chiang Mai is a fantastic choice for a honeymoon destination.
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Nightlife for every preference
Chiang Mai has a diverse nightlife scene that caters to different preferences. From rave cave nightclubs to chilled reggae spots and jazz bars, there's something for everyone.
For those seeking a vibrant party atmosphere, Zoe in Yellow is the go-to place for electronic music and full moon parties. The Freedom Bar is another popular spot for reggae lovers, offering a relaxed atmosphere with comfortable pillows and good music. If you're in the mood for some live jazz, The North Gate Jazz Co-Op is the perfect destination, but be sure to arrive early to secure a seat.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more laid-back and intimate evening, Chiang Mai has plenty of options as well. John's Place, with its rooftop bar, offers a delightful setting for couples to unwind over cocktails or beer, along with a game of pool. The THC Rooftop Bar is another popular choice, where you can relax on floor cushions, enjoy the tunes spun by a DJ, and socialise.
For a truly unique experience, the Loy Krathong Festival is a romantic Thailand festival celebrated annually during the full moon of the 12th lunar month. Couples can join the locals in decorating Kathongs with flowers, banana leaves, candles, and incense sticks, and then setting them afloat on the water as a symbolic offering to let go of any negative emotions.
Chiang Mai also boasts an array of luxurious spa resorts, such as Panviman Resort, offering indulgent treatments that will leave you feeling pampered and rejuvenated. The city's hotels also provide a range of romantic packages, often including decorations, treats, and personalised messages to make your stay extra special.
Whether you're looking to dance the night away or enjoy a tranquil evening, Chiang Mai's versatile nightlife has something to offer for every couple's preference on their honeymoon.
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Boutique hotels and spas
Chiang Mai is a great destination for honeymooners looking for a mix of rural life and city buzz. The city has a lot to offer in terms of boutique hotels and spas.
One of the most popular choices for honeymooners is Howie's Homestay, a majestic boutique hotel owned by Howard and his wife, Jerri. The property is a private estate designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, featuring a unique pool, lush tropical gardens, and views of the surrounding area. Howie's Homestay offers an all-inclusive experience with four guest rooms, all meals included, laundry and maid services, airport transfers, and free Wi-Fi. It is located close to temples, forests, and the city of Chiang Mai, providing easy access to various attractions.
Another highly recommended option for couples is Shangri-La Chiang Mai, known for its thoughtful touches, great service, and intimate atmosphere. The hotel offers special packages for couples, including room decorations with rose petals, bouquets of roses, and bottles of champagne to celebrate their honeymoon. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay.
For those seeking a tranquil escape, the RatiLanna Riverside Spa Resort is a luxury boutique hotel situated along a serene riverbank. The resort offers outstanding service and convenient access to the airport, making it an excellent choice for honeymooners looking for a combination of relaxation and convenience.
In addition to these notable options, Chiang Mai boasts a variety of other boutique hotels and spas that cater to couples celebrating their honeymoons. These include Tamarind Village, located in the heart of the city, offering an intimate setting with décor inspired by regional tribes, and 137 Pillars, known for its modern elegance, artistic flair, and beautiful infinity pool.
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Delicious food and drink
Chiang Mai is a food-lover's paradise, with a plethora of delicious dishes and drinks to tantalize your taste buds. Here are some highlights for a culinary journey through this exotic honeymoon destination:
Northern Thai Delicacies
Khao Soi, a signature dish of Chiang Mai, is a must-try. It's an egg noodle soup in a rich and creamy curry broth, and you can find an exemplary version at Khao Soi Prince, where the Muslim owner is the third generation of cooks, making his own noodles by hand. Another must-try is Khao Soi Khun Yai, a yellow coconut curry soup with egg noodles, usually served with chicken, pickled cabbage, shallots, lime, and deep-fried crispy noodles. SP Chicken in the Old City is famous for its kai yang, moist and tender roast chicken with crisp, flavorful skin, best enjoyed with som tam (papaya salad).
Street Food and Night Markets
Chiang Mai's night markets offer a range of tasty treats. The Cowboy Hat Lady at Chang Puak Gate Night Market serves up delicious khao kha moo (melt-in-your-mouth pork). The same market is also home to Suki Koka, a stall specializing in Thai suki, a dish similar to Japanese shabu shabu or Chinese hot pot, with vegetables, mung bean noodles, and your choice of seafood or meat. Kafe 1985, across from the moat, is a casual pub popular with locals and backpackers, offering drinking snacks like sun-dried beef "jerky" and sour rice cured pork ribs.
Fine Dining and Cocktail Bars
For a more upscale dining experience, Tamarind Village, a MICHELIN-listed resort in the city centre, offers a beautiful bamboo corridor and lush grounds. Aunt Aoy Kitchen, a street food gem within the resort, serves a must-try Chef Omelette – fluffy and crispy, loaded with stir-fried minced pork, salted egg, and pork crackling. After dinner, head to one of Chiang Mai's coolest cocktail bars, like The White Rabbit, a second-floor hideaway near the city's north gate, or Nophaburi, where all drinks feature Thai spirits and ingredients.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Chiang Mai is also vegan and vegetarian-friendly, with a range of plant-based options. The city's hotels often cater to a variety of dietary preferences, and the local markets, like the Sunday Waking Street Market, offer a wide variety of choices.
Chiang Mai truly is a foodie's dream, with a diverse range of culinary delights to satisfy any palate. Whether you're looking for street food, fine dining, or vegan options, this city has something to offer, making it a delicious choice for a honeymoon.
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Temples and monuments
Chiang Mai is a city with a plethora of temples and monuments, making it a great destination for those seeking history, adventure, and romance. With over 300 temples scattered throughout the city and surrounding countryside, Chiang Mai offers a diverse range of architectural styles and historical significance. Here are some notable temples and monuments that you can explore during your honeymoon:
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, commonly referred to as Wat Doi Suthep, is the most visited Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai. The temple is located on a mountain nine miles outside the city and can be reached via a scenic road. The temple is adorned with pagodas, statues, and shrines, reflecting aspects of both Buddhism and Hinduism. To enter the temple grounds, one must climb 309 steps, which lead to a small village-like atmosphere. The temple grounds offer panoramic views of Chiang Mai, providing a peaceful day trip. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must-see destination and is considered the most famous temple in Chiang Mai.
Wat Chedi Luang
Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most historic temples in Chiang Mai, dating back to the 14th century. The temple was built by King Saen Muang Ma to house the ashes of his father, Ku Na. It once held a sacred relic known as The Emerald Buddha, making it exceptionally significant in Buddhism. The temple's grounds provide a serene environment and offer a glimpse into the weight of history.
Wat Phra Singh
Wat Phra Singh is the most popular temple in Chiang Mai in terms of visitor numbers. It houses the city's most important Buddha image, the Lion Buddha, which dates back to 1345. The temple complex is a stunning example of classic Lanna-style temple architecture, featuring a vibrant and striking golden chedi. Its convenient location at the western end of the Old City makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other temples in the area.
Wat Chiang Man
Wat Chiang Man is located in the historic old town of Chiang Mai and is easily accessible. It was built at the end of the 13th century, just a year after the city's foundation. The temple features ornate elephant statues of exceptional craftsmanship and a fully wooded library. The Ubosot, the most important place for ceremonies in a wat, is a highlight of this temple.
Wat Sri Suphan
Wat Sri Suphan, often referred to as the "Silver Temple," is one of the most beautiful temples in Chiang Mai. While the temple itself is not large, it shines with silver ornaments, living up to its nickname. Unfortunately, women are not allowed to enter the interior of the temple building.
Wat Pha Lat
Wat Pha Lat is a hidden gem located in the forest, just a few miles below Doi Suthep. This Buddhist temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and unique setting, blending harmoniously into the natural environment on a cliff next to a waterfall. The only way to reach Wat Pha Lat is via the "Monk's Trail," a 45-minute uphill trek marked by trees wrapped in orange cloth.
Wiang Kum Kam
Wiang Kum Kam is an ancient underground city located about 5 km south of the old town of Chiang Mai. Excavations in the 1980s led to the discovery of hidden ruins, including the remains of about 30 temples. Today, the restored Wat Chedi Liam and Wat Kan Thom are active temples that you can visit, offering a glimpse into the ancient history of the region.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Chiang Mai is a great honeymoon destination for those seeking a mix of history, adventure, nature and romance. It offers the best of both worlds, with rural life and city buzz.
Howie's Homestay, 137 Pillars, Tamarind Village, Shangri-La Chiang Mai, RatiLanna Riverside Spa Resort and Lana Romantic are some highly-rated honeymoon hotels in Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai offers a range of activities for honeymooners, including visiting the Grand Canyon Water Park, touring the many temples, zip-lining, and enjoying the nightlife.
Chiang Mai has a variety of dining options, including Bodhi Tree, Taste From Heaven, Goodsouls, Khao Soi Mae Sai, and Khao Soi Loong Prakid Gard Gorm.
Honeymooners can ride elephants, visit the Tiger Kingdom, explore the long-neck Karen Tribe, and lounge at the infinity pools in luxury hotels.
