7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, is a haven for digital nomads, offering a unique blend of ancient culture, modern convenience, and a vibrant expat community. While the city itself is rich with attractions, the surrounding areas offer a plethora of weekend getaways that cater to all tastes. From the popular to the path less traveled, here are seven destinations that promise to rejuvenate the spirit of any traveler.

Pai

Pai is a picturesque town nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. It's a favorite among backpackers and digital nomads looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. In Pai, you can relax in hot springs, visit the Pai Canyon, or explore the numerous waterfalls in the area. The walking street market is a must-visit for delicious street food and local handicrafts.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Pai from Chiang Mai is by minivan or bus, which takes around 3 to 4 hours. The route is famous for its 762 curves, offering an adventurous journey through the mountains.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to watch the sunset at Pai Canyon. The panoramic views are breathtaking and provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Pai Village Boutique Resort & Farm, which offers a tranquil setting and traditional Thai bungalows. For a unique experience, the Reverie Siam Resort features live music in their restaurant and a pool with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Where to Eat: The Witching Well is a charming restaurant in Pai known for its fusion cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Try their homemade pastas or the local favorite, Khao Soi.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park, home to the highest peak in Thailand, is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. The park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, beautiful waterfalls, and two impressive pagodas dedicated to the King and Queen of Thailand. Bird watching is particularly popular here, as the park is home to several rare species.

How to Get There: The park is about a 2-hour drive from Chiang Mai. You can rent a car, hire a taxi, or join a guided tour to explore the park's vast natural beauty.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Royal Agricultural Station Inthanon to learn about the agricultural methods and to see the beautiful gardens.

Where to Stay: Touch Star Resort offers comfortable accommodations close to the park's entrance, while the Inthanon Highland Resort provides stunning views of the mountainous landscape.

Where to Eat: The Hmong Hilltribe Market inside the park offers a chance to try authentic hill tribe food, such as grilled meats and fresh vegetables grown locally.

Chiang Dao

Chiang Dao, known as the "City of Stars," is an offbeat destination that offers a serene escape into nature. The area is dominated by the impressive Doi Chiang Dao mountain and is perfect for trekking, caving, and bird watching. The Chiang Dao Cave is a highlight, with its stunning limestone formations and hidden shrines.

How to Get There: Chiang Dao is approximately 1.5 hours north of Chiang Mai by car or bus. The journey itself is scenic, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Northern Thai countryside.

Travel Tip: Visit the Chiang Dao Tuesday market, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and sample exotic fruits and traditional snacks.

Where to Stay: The Chiang Dao Nest offers cozy bungalows with mountain views and is renowned for its excellent restaurant serving Thai and Western dishes.

Where to Eat: For a memorable dining experience, try the Chiang Dao Nest's restaurant, which sources many of its ingredients from its organic garden.

Lampang

Lampang, often overlooked by tourists, is a charming city with a rich history and culture. It's known for its horse-drawn carriages and beautiful Lanna-style temples. The city also boasts the Thai Elephant Conservation Center, where visitors can learn about and interact with these majestic creatures in a responsible manner.

How to Get There: Lampang is just over an hour away from Chiang Mai by car or bus. You can also take a scenic train ride, which takes about 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the weekend Kad Kong Ta Street Market, where you can find a variety of local crafts, foods, and live music.

Where to Stay: The Riverside Guest House offers a peaceful stay by the Wang River, complete with traditional Thai architecture and modern amenities.

Where to Eat: Aroy One Baht is a local restaurant famous for its delicious and affordable Thai dishes, particularly the Lampang-style chicken with noodles.

Mae Kampong Village

Mae Kampong Village is a hidden gem located in the mountains east of Chiang Mai. This small community has become a model for sustainable tourism in Thailand. Visitors can enjoy a homestay experience, learn about the local way of life, and indulge in traditional Thai massages. The village is also known for its production of fermented tea leaves (miang).

How to Get There: The village is about a 1.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai. Renting a car or motorbike is the best way to reach this secluded destination.

Travel Tip: Take a guided tour through the village to learn about the local culture and the process of making miang. The surrounding forest also offers excellent hiking opportunities.

Where to Stay: Homestays are the most authentic way to experience Mae Kampong, with many local families offering comfortable rooms and home-cooked meals.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at one of the village's local eateries, where you can try miang kham, a traditional snack made with fermented tea leaves and a variety of fresh ingredients.

Phayao

Phayao is a tranquil lakeside town that is often bypassed by tourists, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an authentic Northern Thai experience. The town is centered around Kwan Phayao, a large freshwater lake with a picturesque backdrop of mountains. It's a great place for cycling, picnicking, and enjoying the laid-back local lifestyle.

How to Get There: Phayao is about a 3-hour drive from Chiang Mai. Buses also run regularly between the two cities.

Travel Tip: Rent a bicycle and take a leisurely ride around Kwan Phayao, stopping at the various temples and shrines along the way.

Where to Stay: The Kwan Phayao Villa offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the lake and easy access to local attractions.

Where to Eat: The Lake Terrace Restaurant is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering delicious Thai cuisine with a view of Kwan Phayao.

Bo Sang Umbrella Village

Bo Sang Umbrella Village is an unusual and colorful destination just a short drive from Chiang Mai. This small village is famous for its handcrafted paper umbrellas and parasols, brightly painted with intricate designs. Visitors can watch artisans at work and even try their hand at painting their own umbrella. The annual Bo Sang Umbrella Festival, held in January, is a particularly vibrant time to visit.

How to Get There: Bo Sang is located about 30 minutes east of Chiang Mai by car or motorbike. Public transportation options are also available.

Travel Tip: Aside from the umbrellas, Bo Sang is also known for its traditional Lanna-style houses. Take a walk through the village to admire the architecture and visit the local craft shops.

Where to Stay: Stay at the nearby Secret Garden Chiang Mai, a bed and breakfast that offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and a swimming pool.

Where to Eat: The Bo Sang Handicraft Centre has a small café where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and some light snacks while surrounded by the village's signature umbrellas.