A One-Day Trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand: Explore Doi Suthep Temple and Stroll by the River for Afternoon Tea

Text & Photos /Matcha Tuna Egg

It’s said that when visiting Chiang Mai, you simply must make the trip up Doi Suthep Mountain to see the gleaming Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (also known as the Twin Dragons Temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep/'1#028-"*8@)!

Legend has it that the temple was established where a wise white elephant, carrying sacred Buddha relics, stopped of its own accord and chose this very spot to build a chedi for enshrining the relics—thus making it a sacred site that locals believe everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.

The temple is also nicknamed the “Twin Dragons Temple” because of the two serpent-dragon staircases with a total of 306 steps leading up to it. As such, you’ll often see many devout local worshippers here, offering incense, hanging prayer bells, or presenting fresh lotus flowers.

Located on the mountain, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is also a well-known summer retreat. It’s said to get especially crowded in the summer, so if you’re anything like me and hate crowds, be sure to head up early in the morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere.

After soaking in the spiritual energy of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, it’s time to get back to regular life. And what better way to refuel than with some afternoon tea when hunger strikes? Since my hotel happened to be right by the Ping River, there were plenty of beautiful riverside spots for tea. Here’s a look at some of the best—see which one’s your favorite:

1. Afternoon Tea at Na Nirand Hotel:

Na Nirand Hotel has only been open for a couple of months, making it a relatively new addition to the riverside area. Its overall aesthetic features white walls, black roof tiles, and wooden architecture, giving off strong tropical island vibes that instantly make you feel on vacation.

For afternoon tea, have a sandwich paired with freshly cut coconut, and sit under one of the century-old trees by the river that the hotel has specially preserved. With the gentle breeze blowing, it honestly feels like heaven on earth.

2. Afternoon Tea at Anantara Resort:

Anantara is a five-star resort chain, with locations not only in Chiang Mai but also in Bangkok. Enjoying afternoon tea here gives off strong ladylike luxury vibes.

Don’t let the small portions of these three-tiered dessert trays fool you—they’re surprisingly filling. The top layer features small cakes made with a variety of local Thai fruits and spices, offering flavors you won’t find in Taiwan.

3. Riverside Dining at Nakara Jardin:

By the Ping River, there’s a quaint little riverside restaurant called Nakara Jardin, which has an English garden-style ambiance, and the interior decor is delightfully British countryside-themed.

The food is equally delicious and thoughtfully prepared—the white sauce pasta is rich and creamy, and the ordinary pumpkin soup is elevated with locally-sourced coconut milk, giving it a distinctly tropical flavor. It’s definitely worth a try.

But if you’d rather sleep in at your resort in the afternoon and skip the sightseeing, you can still choose a beautiful holiday hotel in Chiang Mai. Sleep in until you naturally wake up, then take a stroll in the sunset to the bar street for dinner and drinks:

On the bar street, you’ll find all kinds of bars—from outdoor venues and local-style hangouts to cozy, relaxing spots. There’s something for everyone.

Some bars even offer live music, making the whole atmosphere even more lively. Grab a drink or two with friends, order some classic bar snacks, and fully unwind while enjoying the vibrant nightlife of the southern tropics.

Want to know what else you can do in Chiang Mai during Thailand’s official mourning period? Stay tuned to Matcha Tuna Egg’s dedicated page—I’ll take you on all kinds of adventures.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Address: Thailand Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Road Srivijaya Suthep Mueang Chiang Mai District Chiang Mai
Phone: +66 53295002

Matcha Tuna Egg
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