The Simple Pleasures Of Chiangmai

Chiangmai is well known for its rich cultural history and the mesmerising architecture of its temples and Pagodas. With around 300 temples in the old city, the cultural aspect can be quite overwhelming. My blog on this fortified city talks about its rich heritage and architecture build by the Lanna Kingdom

But Chiangmai has a lot more to offer with lovely cafes, local shopping and the ever so vibrant and popular night markets. On out recent visit in October we fell in love with the city. We are already planning to come back and park here for a month!

The Vibrant Night Markets

We visited the Friday night market on Thanon Bumrungburi street. The thing about night markets in Chiangmai is there is one almost every night. The markets are colourful and vibrant and visited by travellers from all over the world. Some markets are more local than the others. This night market is a paradise for meat eaters. There was everything available under the sun including crocodile meat which seemed quite popular. But we are vegetarians and we still managed to get some great food and soak in the vibes. There were around a 50 local residents who put up stalls as per their special expertise. Finding a table is a daunting task if you don’t get there early which is by 6pm. We enjoyed Pad Thai with yellow curry and vegetable fried rice. But the show stopper was the mango sticky rice. It was absolutely lip smacking.

Just along the food stalls we strolled the shopping street which had pretty thai souvenirs, sarongs and lovely hats. Copies of hats of various high level brands such as Gucci and LV were easily available at a very reasonable price.

Sunday Night Market

One of the best night markets in Chiangmai is the Sunday night market. Don’t miss it for anything. It is much larger compared to the other night markets and the quality of shopping and food is much better. The night market is located just opposite the Wat Phra Singh. The market is well laid out and the seating is quite organised. The highlight for us was the vegetarian Khao soi which is inherited from Burma. It is available everywhere in Chiangmai as it borders Myanmar. It is so authentic and delicious. We just couldn’t help ourselves eating it again and again!

The French crepe made by a Thai family transported us to France! There was even Mexican food! Health conscious eaters were having a gala time as there were multiple vegan options. The Sunday night market had awesome variety of just about everything. Every stall was different with a theme that had some unique and delicious food to offer. So definitely a must do when in Chiangmai.

The best way to see this old city is either by foot or hire a cycle. The lanes and by-lanes are so pretty with lovely cafes just about every corner. You can find cuisines from all over the world but the Thai curries, Pad Thai and sticky rice reign supreme. The Khao soi is to die for. So just hop into any of the cafes in the old city of Chiangmai for a great food experience and do try out the South-East Asian beers!

For a fancier experience head to the The House by Ginger. This pretty restaurant has an exquisite menu and you can try everything of your choice. The bar is quite nice. You can enjoy the outdoor sitting and soak in the vibes of Chiangmai.

Please check out my blog on ‘The Fortified City Of Chiangmai‘