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Unique 4-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary: A photographer’s guide

BySteffan and Emma 26 May 20258 July 2025 Updated on8 July 2025

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Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Why Visit Chiang Mai? (Especially for photographers)
  • How Long should you spend in Chiang Mai?
  • 4-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary
    • Chiang mai 4-Day itinerary Video👇
    • Day 1: Old Town Temples, Walking Tour & Night Market
    • Day 2: Connecting with nature at Doi Inthanon National Park
    • Day 3: ChangChill  – Visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai (Full day tour)
    • Day 4: Temple at sunrise, cooking and food tours
  • Still got energy? More things to do in chiang mai
    • More time in Doi Inthanon National Park
    • Take a day tour to Chiang Rai
    • More Temples in Chiang Mai
    • Explore local history and culture
    • Spend the afternoon chilling at a local park
  • How to get to chiang mai
  • when is the best time to visit chiang mai?
  • Where to stay in chiang mai
  • Where to eat in chiang mai
  • Getting a sim card
  • FAQs: Planning Your 4 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary
    • Is 4 days enough for Chiang Mai?
    • Can you visit Doi Inthanon without a tour?
    • What should I wear when visiting temples in Chiang Mai?
    • Is Chiang Mai safe for travellers?
    • Can you use Grab in Chiang Mai?
  • Where to Go After Chiang Mai – For Travel Photographers
    • Doi Mae Salong – Misty Hills & Tea Plantation Perfection
    • Phu Chi Fa – One for the Sunrise Addicts
    • Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat, Lampang – The Floating Pagodas
  • More Thailand Inspiration!
  • Tips to elevate your photography

Planning a trip to Thailand and searching for the perfect 4 day Chiang Mai itinerary? 

We’ve crafted one that’s ideal for photographers and slow travellers alike

When we were planning our Chiang Mai itinerary, we weren’t sure how many days would be enough, especially with so many rushed itineraries out there.

And while we ended up staying much longer than 4 days (and loved the slower pace), we know not everyone has that luxury. 

So if you’re looking for a 4-day Chiang Mai itinerary that helps you find the most photogenic spots without feeling like you’re racing around, you’re in the right place.

So many itineraries online are crammed full of non-stop activities, ticking off sights like it’s a race. And honestly? That’s not how we like to travel. Especially not with a camera, 

We believe in slow travel, the kind of trip where there’s time to breathe without feeling stressed out and you can soak up the atmosphere and actually enjoy the process of photographing beautiful places, rather than sprinting from one spot to the next.

If you’re after a slower-paced itinerary for Chiang Mai that helps you connect with nature and culture and of course, get some beautiful travel photos along the way, this guide is for you. 

Four days is a brilliant amount of time to photograph Chiang Mai. You could absolutely stretch it to five days (and we’ve popped in a few extra ideas if you do), but even with just four days, there’s plenty of time to capture its beauty without feeling rushed. 

Even if you’re new to travel photography, this guide makes it easy to find stunning spots without stress.

We’ve kept it practical, flexible and full of the best Chiang Mai photography spots with a mix of culture, nature and landscapes. 

This 4 day Chiang Mai itinerary includes must-see temples, nature spots, photography tips, and a few hidden gems for photography you won’t want to miss. 

We’ve also included some top-rated tours and stays to make planning easy.

So let’s get started!

A traditional Lanna-style Buddhist temple complex with a dark wooden roof and white lanterns on poles, next to a brick stupa surrounded by parked tuk-tuks and cars. The sky is partly cloudy with green trees in the background.

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Why Visit Chiang Mai? (Especially for photographers)

Chiang Mai sits up in northern Thailand and it has a totally different feel from the rest of the country. It’s greener, calmer and much less hectic than the islands or Bangkok and you won’t find the same party vibes or crowds here. Instead, it’s all about nature, culture and a more relaxed pace of life that makes it perfect for slow travel in Chiang Mai

What we love most is how connected it feels to the natural world. 

It’s heaven for Travel Photographers.

There are proper jungle hikes, hidden waterfalls that feel like a secret and the epic Doi Inthanon National Park, which is home to Thailand’s highest mountain. It’s honestly a dream if you’re into landscapes and slower, more mindful travel.

A wide-angle drone image of Mae Ya Waterfall cascading through the dense jungle, showcasing its multiple tiers and blending natural symmetry with photographic composition.
Drone Settings – ISO-100, f/6.3, 1/400 sec, 12mm

It’s also one of the best places in Thailand to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary (we’ll talk more about that later) and there are some brilliant community experiences with local hill tribes that feel genuine and respectful, not staged for tourists.

And the food! If you’re plant-based like us, you’ll be in heaven!

Chiang Mai has loads of vegan cafés and restaurants and it’s really easy to find something tasty that doesn’t cost a fortune.

It’s also a great base if you’re heading further north to explore places like Chiang Rai or Phu Chi Fa.

Basically, if you’re after somewhere that feels a bit more peaceful but still packed with interesting things to see and do and photograph, Chiang Mai is a brilliant choice.

A bamboo archway decorated with hanging white and gold lanterns stands at the entrance to Wat Lok Molee in Chiang Mai. Behind it, traditional dark wooden temple roofs and part of the brick stupa are visible under a bright blue sky.

How Long should you spend in Chiang Mai?

We ended up spending almost four weeks in Chiang Mai, though to be fair, that wasn’t exactly the plan! 

We were there for five days during the lantern festival (which was not what we expected) and then we came back for December… where I promptly got really sick and spent most of the time tucked up in bed. Not ideal, but it did mean we got to know the city really well.

That said, 4 days in Chiang Mai is a great amount of time to explore at a relaxed pace. It gives you just enough time to visit some of the city’s most photogenic spots, enjoy a bit of nature and soak up the culture without feeling rushed. 

Most people don’t have weeks to spare, especially if you’re also heading to the islands or other parts of northern Thailand so four days is a really solid, balanced choice. 

Although we would recommend saving a bit of time to head further north to places like Phu Chi Fa and Lampang after the city!

A wide-angle landscape shot of Wachirathan Waterfall in Doi Inthanon National Park, showcasing its powerful cascades enveloped by vibrant green forest under soft, natural light

4-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary

This Chiang Mai 4 day itinerary is designed to balance the must-sees for photography with extra time to go slow and just see what crops up as you go, ideal if you want a slower experience without feeling rushed.

Short on time – here’s the highlights 👇

DayAMPM
Day 1Wat Lok Molee and Wat Chedi LuangWalking Tour and Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Day 2Doi Inthanon National ParkDoi Inthanon National Park
Day 3Chang Chill ethical elephant sanctuary Chang Chill ethical elephant sanctuary
Day 4Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple (Sunrise Tour) Food tour or cooking class

The sun sets behind a white temple structure with a steep dark roof adorned with golden naga finials at Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai. Lens flare and shadows stretch across the stone courtyard and nearby trees.

Chiang mai 4-Day itinerary Video👇

A shorter version of the blog for those of you in a rush 🏃‍♂️

Chiang Mai 4 Day Itinerary for photographers! #thailand #thailandtravel #chiangmai #photographers

Day 1: Old Town Temples, Walking Tour & Night Market

Chiang Mai’s Old Town is a brilliant place to start your trip.

It’s compact and walkable, surrounded by a square moat and remnants of ancient city walls and packed with historic temples that are as photogenic as they are peaceful. Day 1 is all about exploring the city, observing local life, soaking up the atmosphere and seeing one of the many hundreds of temples!

A grey pickup truck modified with metal cages carries several light brown cows through a residential area. A man in a black uniform stands beside the truck holding a red phone, and another truck is visible in the background.

Morning: Best Way to Start Your 4 Days in Chiang Mai – Visit the Old Town Temples

Start your day early or better yet, head out just before golden hour if you’re up for a sunrise wander. The light is soft, the air is cooler and the temples are far less crowded. It’s a lovely way to begin your trip and gives you time and space to really take in the details.

We visited Wat Lok Molee, a quiet and often overlooked temple just outside the Old City walls. It’s beautifully weathered and has an open, peaceful feel plus, it’s free to enter, with just a donation box near the entrance.

Close-up view of the brick stupa at Wat Lok Molee in Chiang Mai, showing detailed stone carvings and a small seated Buddha in a niche. Rows of hanging paper flags in gold, red, and purple frame the foreground.
The ancient brick stupa at Wat Lok Molee in Chiang Mai towers behind an ornate arched entrance, where a woman photographs rows of hanging red, yellow, and white lanterns. The scene is framed by carved stone and gold details.
A shrine area within Wat Lok Molee in Chiang Mai features a bronze Buddha statue in front of black plaques, offering tables, and a golden leaf wish tree. Colorful paper flags are strung above, set against an old brick wall.

Then head over to Wat Chedi Luang, one of the most iconic temples in Chiang Mai. The huge crumbling chedi in the centre is stunning in the morning light and there’s a peaceful feel to the place even though it’s quite popular.

Both Wat Lok Molee and Wat Chedi Luang are among the best photo spots in Chiang Mai, especially in the morning light.

A full side view of the ancient stupa at Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai, featuring crumbling brickwork, elephant statues on each side, and colorful flags lining the staircases and perimeter.
Detail of the elephant sculptures projecting from the stupa base at Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai. The stone elephants are weathered and surrounded by brickwork and vertical pink and yellow flags.

💡TIPS

👉Opening Times: 6am – 6pm 7 days a week

👉Cost: Wat Chedi Luang is 50 baht per person and Wat Lok Molee is free

👉How to get there: It is easily walked from anywhere inside or on the outskirts of the Old Town

📸 Photography Tip: The best light is in the morning, so arriving as close to 6-7am will make your shots so much softer and visually appealing


Afternoon: Take a Walking Tour to discover hidden spots

By midday, the light’s usually a bit harsh for photography so grab some lunch at one of the many restaurants or food stands and refuel your energy, ready for an afternoon walking tour.

These tours are brilliant for getting your bearings, learning a bit about the history and culture and discovering corners of the city you might otherwise miss. 

A man walks past a wall covered in graffiti and street art, including a large mural of a black cartoon bird in a rainbow cap holding a red flare. Tangled overhead electrical wires crisscross above the scene. Taken in Chiang Mai,

There are loads of options through GetYourGuide and Viator, depending on whether you prefer something historical, food-focused, or a mix of both. We’ve also used GuruWalk before, they offer free walking tours with local guides and you just tip what you feel it’s worth.

If you can book one after mid to later afternoon, the light will be softer, making for nicer photos, but even if you can only book midday and you’re not snapping your best photos during this time, it’s still worth bringing your camera along.

You’ll spot colourful doorways, intricate temple details and quiet backstreets that tell the story of Chiang Mai.

💡TIPS

👉Recommended Tours👇

  • Chiangmai: Temple And City Walking Tour With Ex-Monk
  • Chiang Mai Old City Quickstart: Landmarks and Hidden Gems

📸 Photography Tip: If you can book a tour for mid to late afternoon, this will take advantage of the softer light but if there are only tours available midday just use an ND filter to reduce some of the harsh light.


Ornate temple entrance at Wat Lok Molee in Chiang Mai, built with reddish-orange bricks and decorated with intricate white stucco carvings. Above the archway is a relief of a seated figure flanked by two standing guards, with a tree partially shading the right side.

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Evening: Wander around Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Wrap up the day with a wander through the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.

It’s not just a place to shop it’s an experience in itself.

Even though we didn’t get a chance to go ourselves, it’s something so many travellers recommend.

And we did visit another night market just on the outskirts of the city and we really enjoyed it!

Located just east of the Old Town moat, between Tha Phae and Sridonchai Roads, it’s packed with street food stalls, traditional carvings, antiques, clothing and even handmade furniture.

It’s a bit chaotic, sure, but in a lively, buzzing way that’s great for capturing candid shots and the energy of local life.

Bonus Evening Tip: Tha Pae Gate & Sunday Walking Street Market

If you’re in Chiang Mai on a Sunday, don’t miss the Walking Street Market, which takes over much of the Old Town. It starts at Tha Pae Gate, one of the main historic entry points to the city and stretches through the heart of town with hundreds of stalls, street performers and local food.

Steffan stands beneath a glowing neon pink arch that reads “Chiang Mai” at a night market in Chiang Mai. The walkway is surrounded by tropical plants and colorful hanging lanterns, with the bright lighting creating a festive atmosphere.
Close-up of grilled prawns neatly arranged in plastic trays at a local market, their shells glistening with a golden-orange hue. The prawns are set on a bed of artificial green grass, with a woven basket partially visible in the background. This image showcases travel food photography, highlighting the vibrant presentation of fresh, local seafood at markets, capturing the culinary essence of a destination.
Sony A7R3 – Camera Settings – ISO-1600, f/2.8, 1/1600sec, 70mm

💡TIPS

👉Opening Times: 5pm – midnight 7 days a week

👉Cost: Free to wander around

👉How to get there: It is easily walked from anywhere inside or on the outskirts of the Old Town

📸 Photography Tip: Markets are great places to get some candid shots and capture the general hustle and bustle of local life.


A section of Chiang Mai’s old city wall made of reddish-brown bricks, with a Thai flag and two yellow flags in front, bordered by a small canal and iron fence. The sky is partly cloudy, and some traditional and colonial-style buildings are visible in the background.

Day 2: Connecting with nature at Doi Inthanon National Park

If you love nature, landscape photography and craving a bit of peaceful time away from the city, Doi Inthanon National Park is going to be your favourite. 

And it’s just 90 minutes from the city.

It’s pretty big, even with your own car, you’d struggle to see everything in a single day. We spent five days exploring it slowly and saw pretty much all of it, so we’ve got a good sense of what’s worth prioritising if you’ve only got one day.

That said, if photography is your main reason for visiting, we’d really recommend dedicating a second day here if you can.

It’s one of the most photogenic day trips you can include in any 4 day Chiang Mai itinerary, especially for landscape and nature lovers.

Either swap something out from the rest of this itinerary or consider extending your stay — it’s worth it. Plus, the entrance ticket is valid for five days, so you won’t need to pay again if you return.

The variety of photo opportunities here is incredible: sweeping mountain views, remote hill tribe villages, dramatic waterfalls and the iconic royal pagodas surrounded by gardens and clouds.

A wide view of golden rice terraces with two wooden huts scattered in the landscape, framed by dense green forest and blue sky along the Pha Dok Siew nature trail.
An aerial photo capturing Mae Klang Waterfall in Doi Inthanon National Park with a drone, surrounded by dense green forest and cascading water flowing through rocky terrain into the valley below
Sony A7R3 – Camera Settings – ISO-250, f/4, 1/2 sec, 21mm

Our 1-Day Doi Inthanon Photography Guide Itinerary

This route works best if you’ve got your own car or a private driver, so you can time your stops properly for the light.

There are plenty of organised day tours too, but just be aware that many of them don’t get you there early enough for sunrise or golden hour. If that’s not a dealbreaker and you’ve got an ND filter for those midday shots, a group tour could still be a good shout.

Here’s our suggested itinerary for a photography-focused day:

Morning – Sunrise options 👇

👉 Kew Mae Pan: One of the top Chiang Mai sunrise photography spots, especially when the mountains are cloaked in mist. (Nov-Feb is best for the sea of clouds and you will need a guide, which you will be allocated at the trailhead)

OR

👉Mae Ya Waterfall: Soft morning light and fewer crowds make it great for waterfall shots (Our favourite and recommended choice for landscape/waterfall photography) The water isn’t as blue as Erawan Falls in Kanchanaburi but its sheer size makes up for it!

Emma stood in a flowing white dress stands on rocks in front of the majestic Mae Ya Waterfall, captured with a long exposure to create a soft, ethereal effect on the cascading water.
Camera Settings – ISO-100, f/10, 1/2 sec, 24mm
A vibrant shot of Mae Ya Waterfall, captured with a long exposure to create a silky effect on the cascading water. A prominent tree stands near the center of the frame, its bright green foliage illuminated by sunlight, contrasting with the smooth water and rugged rocks. The surrounding greenery adds depth to the composition.
Camera Settings – ISO-100, f/10, 1/2sec, 58mm

Mid-morning

👉 Visit the Royal Twin Pagodas, which are stunning from almost every angle and one of the most iconic things to do in the park.

Afternoon

👉Hike the Pha Dok Siew Trail starting around 2pm. This trail takes you past forest paths, beautiful terraced rice fields and waterfalls and ends in a hill tribe village.

A narrow dirt path curves past a small wooden stilt house with a rusty metal roof, set in tall grass at the edge of the forest on the Pha Dok Siew nature trail.
Pha Dok Siew waterfall flows down a cliffside in the background, while a bamboo bridge stretches across the river in the foreground. The Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail passes directly over this bridge, offering dramatic views of the waterfall.

Optional late stop

👉 If you’ve got time (and energy), make a quick detour to Mae Klang Waterfall around 4pm. But honestly, if you’re doing Pha Dok Siew properly, you might want to skip this one or come back another day.

A frontal, long-exposure photograph of Mae Klang Waterfall highlighting its multi-tiered cascades, surrounded by dense trees and illuminated by soft, golden-hour light with lots of green grass in the foreground and trees in the background
Sony A7R3 – Camera Settings – ISO-250, f/4, 1/2 sec, 21mm

💡TIPS

👉Opening Times: Open daily from around 5:30am to 6:00pm

👉Cost: 300 baht per person for foreign visitors (roughly £7 / $9 USD) for five days

👉How to get there from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon: You’ll need to hire a car, a private driver or book a tour – for hire car we recommend booking.com. We hired a car for three weeks in Chiang Mai through booking and it was super affordable and really simple. If you’d rather book a private driver or tour then we recommend Get Your Guide or Viator as they offer no deposit booking and free cancellation.

👉Recommended Tours for Photography Lovers👇

🚌 Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon Private Tour

🚌 Chiang Mai – Private Instagrammable Tour with Thai Lunch

🚌 Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon: One day with a private driver (create your own itinerary!)

🚌 Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon: Eco-friendly tour

🚌 Mae Ya waterfall & Pha Dok Siew Tour from Chiang Mai

📸 Photography Tip: If you’re heading out to photograph the waterfalls, don’t forget to pack your tripod and filters, they’re essential for capturing those dreamy long exposure shots. And be sure to pop a microfibre cloth in your bag too – the waterfall spray is no joke.


A dramatic drone photo showcasing Mae Klang Waterfall in Doi Inthanon National Park, with its tiered cascades flowing powerfully through lush greenery under soft, natural light. The waterfall is very wide across lots of rocks.

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Day 3: ChangChill  – Visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai (Full day tour)

Seeing elephants in Chiang Mai is high on most people’s bucket list and for good reason. 

These animals are incredible. But not every experience is created equal and sadly, a lot of what’s marketed as “ethical” really isn’t.

The word “sanctuary” gets used a lot, but truly ethical places don’t involve feeding, bathing, or touching the elephants.

As magical as those interactions might sound, they often cause stress to the animals and force them into routines that aren’t natural.

full-body portrait of an elephant standing peacefully in a forest at Chiang Chill Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand. The elephant is surrounded by green foliage and trees, with sunlight filtering through the leaves, casting dappled light on its body. The ground is covered with plants and fallen leaves, creating a natural, serene setting.

Most people choose Elephant Nature Park but after a lot of research, we chose Chang Chill as it’s completely hands-off which means there is no direct contact with the elephants and it was exactly the kind of experience we hoped for.

Respectful, peaceful and focused on observing elephants just being elephants. No performances, no photo ops, no feedings, just a quiet walk through their forest habitat, learning about their behaviour and the work being done to protect them.

It’s about 90 minutes from Chiang Mai and includes pick-up and drop-off, which makes it really easy to visit even if you don’t have your own transport.

You’ll leave feeling like you’ve supported something that actually puts the elephants first and you’ll get some lovely shots along the way.

An elephant stands calmly on a forest path at Chiang Chill Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand, holding and eating a bundle of green branches with its trunk. The surrounding area is lush with dense vegetation, and fallen leaves cover the ground. The elephant’s serene posture highlights its peaceful natural environment.

💡TIPS

👉Opening Times: Open daily 9am-5pm

👉Cost: The full day tour is 2500 baht (£56 / USD 76) and the half day tour is 1900 baht (£43 / USD 58) including transport there and back

👉How to get there: You can book directly on their website or with our favourite tour company, Seek Sophie.

👉 Read all about our full day tour at Chang Chill here

📸Photography Tip: There’s plenty of time to capture beautiful, natural shots of the elephants here but honestly, some of our favourite photos were the quiet moments, like when they were half-hidden in the bushes, foraging peacefully.


Book Your Day Tour to Chang Chill Here

A close-up of an elephant's face, partially framed by surrounding green leaves and branches at Chiang Chill Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand. The elephant's large ear with orange speckles and textured trunk are prominent, with soft sunlight filtering through the foliage.

Day 4: Temple at sunrise, cooking and food tours

Day 4 is all about chasing that gorgeous sunrise light and then diving into the foodie side of things, whether that’s a local cooking class or a little food tour.

These kinds of shots are brilliant for telling a fuller story of your trip. It’s not just about the epic landscapes …..capturing the colours, the people, and the atmosphere adds so much more depth (and fun!) to your travel photos.

Day 4 Morning: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple (Sunrise Tour)

Okay, confession time, we didn’t make it to Doi Suthep for sunrise on this trip. After being really unwell and spending over ten days in bed (not exactly the dream travel scenario!), the thought of a 5am wake-up call was a definite no.

But trust us when we say: this one is firmly on our list for next time. And we didn’t want to leave it out just because we haven’t done it yet, when we know it’s a great spot for photography in Chiang Mai.

Sunrise at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most raved-about experiences in Chiang Mai. This sacred temple sits high in the mountains above the city, and in the early morning light, it’s meant to be absolutely magical and an epic Chiang Mai photography spot. 

Fewer crowds, a peaceful atmosphere, and the kind of golden light that makes your photos look magical!

You can book a sunrise tour easily through sites like Viator or GetYourGuide, which usually include hotel pick-up, a guided walk around the temple, and often a stop at a local market afterwards. It’s a great option if you’re looking to add something really special to your Chiang Mai 4 day itinerary, especially if photography is a big part of your trip.

If you really don’t fancy sunrise, then we recommend this tour with Seek Sophie which takes you via the Monks’ trail to Doi Suthep.

We might’ve missed it this time, but it’s 100% on the agenda for our return and if you’re feeling up for it, we reckon it’s a sunrise worth setting your alarm for.

💡TIPS

👉Opening Times: Open daily from around 6am to 6:00pm

👉Cost: 30 baht per person for foreign visitors (roughly £0.70 / $0.90 USD)

👉How to get there: You’ll need to hire a car, a private driver or Grab or book a tour. For a hire car we recommend booking.com as we hired a car for over 3 weeks and had a great experience with them. If you’d rather book a private driver or tour then we recommend Get Your Guide or Viator for sunrise and Seek Sophie if you’re happy to skip the early start and want a more authentic day tour.

👉 Recommended Tours 👇

  • Wat Phra That Doi Suthep spiritual Sunrise Tour with an Ex-monk
  • Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep, Wat Umong, and Pha Lat Sunrise Tour
  • Chiang Mai’s Sacred Monk’s Trail to Doi Suthep

📸 Photography Tip: This is a great spot for drone photography as well as some epic landscape shots with your handheld camera. Just be sure to bring a wide angle lens.


A group of Buddhist monks in orange robes sit beneath a wooden pavilion, while local people in casual clothes sit on plastic chairs listening. Behind them are trucks with cattle and a tree-lined courtyard.

Afternoon: Capturing Culture with a Thai Food Tour or Cooking Class

In the afternoon, you’ve got a few lovely options depending on your energy levels and interests. If you want to get stuck into Thai culture, food is a brilliant way in.

A Thai cooking class is a hands-on way to learn about local ingredients, techniques and traditions plus you get to eat everything you make (always a bonus!). 

It’s also a fun opportunity to snap some behind-the-scenes photos of market shopping, food prep, and colourful plates that help tell the story of your trip.

We recommend the tours with Seek Sophie as they always offer the most authentic and community-driven tours, so you know whichever tour you book will not only be memorable but will directly benefit the local people running the tours.

Now, we’ll be honest, food photography isn’t something we’ve done much of in the past. But since travelling more, we’ve realised just how much food is part of the cultural experience, and it’s something we really want to explore more with our cameras. 

If you’d rather leave the cooking to someone else, a Thai food tour is another fab option. 

These usually take place in the late afternoon or early evening and guide you around some of Chiang Mai’s best street food stalls, markets and hidden gems you might not stumble across on your own.

Perfect if you love trying local food and a great way to get candid shots of local life, too.

💡Recommended Tours

👉Sustainable Flavours of Chiang Mai: A Full-Day Thai Cooking Class Experience with Chef Susie

👉Thai Granny Cooking at a Peaceful Farm Retreat

👉Small-Group Chiang Mai Evening Street Food Tour

👉Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings

📸 Photography Tip: Experiment with your camera when taking photos of food, a change in angle such as a top-down shot, can give a more creative feel to an image. It’s also a great time to get some shots of people cooking or preparing the food. Just be mindful as to whether they are comfortable being photographed.



Optional: Chiang Mai Lantern Festival (November time)

If you’re visiting Chiang Mai in November, you might be in town for the Thailand Lantern Festival (Yi Peng and Loy Krathong), which fills the city with lights, parades, and lots of photo opportunities. It’s often described as one of the most photogenic festivals in the world and while we can definitely see the appeal, it wasn’t quite what we expected.

We’ve written a full blog post about our experience, but in short, we don’t recommend taking part in the mass lantern release. Despite the dreamy Instagram photos, it’s not great for the environment or wildlife, and it’s actually banned in the city centre.

That said, the parade through the Old Town is well worth seeing. There’s traditional dress, music, dancing, and it offers some lovely opportunities for street photography. Just be prepared for big crowds, as the city gets very busy during the festival. (It’s actually how I ended up catching the flu!) 

If your 4 day Chiang Mai itinerary happens to fall in November, it’s a unique cultural event to experience  just go in with the right expectations.

A man in a striped traditional shirt holds the base of a sky lantern while it fills with hot air at the lantern festival in Chiang Mai. His focused expression reflects the anticipation of releasing the glowing lantern during the Loy Krathong celebration.
A vibrant red Chinese lion dance costume is worn by performers during the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival. The dancer interacts with a crowd capturing photos, while musicians in yellow costumes play traditional instruments in the background.

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Still got energy? More things to do in chiang mai

If you’ve got an extra day or just prefer to travel slowly (we’re with you on that one), you’ll find plenty more things to do in Chiang Mai.

Whether you want more time in nature, book a few day tours or you just want to see more temples and cultural sites, these ideas are perfect if you’re stretching your Chiang Mai 4 day itinerary into five days, or simply travelling at a slower pace.

More time in Doi Inthanon National Park

If you loved Day 2 and want to explore further, spend another day in Doi Inthanon. You can take your time with more hikes, visit waterfalls like Mae Klang or Wachirathan and maybe even catch a different sunrise viewpoint. It’s worth it for landscape lovers and your park ticket lasts five days, so you won’t need to pay again.

A stunning aerial shot of Mae Ya Waterfall surrounded by dense greenery, highlighting the waterfall’s grandeur and seamless integration into the natural forested landscape. Taken with a drone.
Drone Settings – ISO-100, f/6.3, 1/400 sec, 12mm

Take a day tour to Chiang Rai

Fancy seeing the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) or the slightly eerie Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)?

A day trip to Chiang Rai gives you a taste of these surreal, colourful structures, both incredible for photography if you like capturing quirky architecture. Just know it’s a full day out, so leave early or join a guided tour for ease.

💡Recommended Tours

👉Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Famous Temples Day Trip in Small Group

👉Chiang Rai Temples: Private Tour from Chiang Mai


A traditional Lanna-style wooden temple building at Wat Lok Molee in Chiang Mai, with dark tiered roofs and ornate white stucco trim. Two white naga serpent sculptures flank the entrance, while two local women in colorful clothing sit near the path selling garlands.

More Temples in Chiang Mai

There are loads of lesser-known temples scattered around the Old Town and nearby, many of which are beautifully photogenic and a lot quieter than the big-name spots. Here are a few to get you started 👇

🛕 Wat Jet Lin – a bit hidden but worth it for the pond and bamboo bridge
🛕 Wat Chiang Man – the oldest temple in the city, tucked into a quiet corner
🛕 Wat Rajamontean – striking red and gold detail, just outside the moat 🛕 Wat Phra Singh – beautiful Lanna architecture and a peaceful vibe
🛕 Wat Pan Tao – known for its wooden viharn and candle-lit ceremonies

A dark bronze Buddha statue draped in a golden sash sits inside an ornately carved wooden doorway at Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai. The background features intricate gold and black wall patterns.

Explore local history and culture

If you’re feeling templed-out, swap your afternoon for a museum or two.

Chiang Mai’s museums are compact, affordable and really help you understand the region’s identity. These three are all near each other and easy to fit into a relaxed day:

🎨 Chiang Mai Historical Centre
🎨 Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre
🎨 The Lanna Folklife Museum

A colorful temple mural inside a Chiang Mai temple shows a blue-skinned deity seated on a pedestal surrounded by worshippers in traditional Thai clothing. The scene includes woven offerings and is framed by soft lighting and shadows.

Spend the afternoon chilling at a local park

Chiang Mai has a couple of lovely green areas and parks where people just rock up with a blanket and snacks and spend the afternoon chilling. Its not photography-focused but after all of those sunrises and sunsets it might be just what you need!

A lush garden area featuring a small pond with lily pads, surrounded by rocks, ferns, and colorful flowers. Two statues sit near the pond—one in grey stone and one in a blue and orange costume under a tree.

How to get to chiang mai

There are multiple ways to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai but only one worth doing in our opinion and that’s the overnight sleeper train. 

The overnight sleeper train from Bangkok is a classic Thailand travel experience!

It’s more affordable, more sustainable and honestly just a much nicer experience than flying.

I had my reservations. I am a classic introvert who turns into a mad woman when I don’t sleep well, so you can imagine my thoughts about essentially sharing a weird carriage bedroom with strangers?! 

But do you know what? I actually loved it. 

The beds are pretty comfy, everyone was super quiet and there was something exciting about sleeping on a train, knowing we’d wake up in another city. 

You can check out exactly what to expect and how to book here.

If overnight trains aren’t your thing, the day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a great alternative. It takes a bit longer than flying, but it’s a relaxed journey with countryside views the whole way. Just bring snacks, a good playlist and maybe a book as its a long old journey.

We always use 12Go Asia to book trains in Thailand as they’re super reliable and easy to use and have the best customer service team.

🚂 Book your tickets for the sleeper train here 🚂


The grey sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai with pink bands across it and the door is open with a small digital sign saying "Train 009 Car 12 Krung Thep Aphi Wat Chiang Mai"

when is the best time to visit chiang mai?

If you’re anything like us, you’re probably wondering about the best time to visit Chiang Mai for photography and trust us, timing makes a big difference. 

The good news? Chiang Mai has a clear sweet spot for that, and it’s totally worth timing your visit to make the most of it.

We visited in November and honestly couldn’t have picked a better time. The mornings were cool, the light was gorgeous and the air was crisp and clear especially up in Doi Inthanon, where you can catch those magical layers of cloud rolling across the mountains at sunrise. Trails were open, paths were dry and the conditions were perfect for exploring.

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide when to go:👇

☀️ November to February:
This is the golden window. Cool, dry weather with clear skies, open trails and great visibility, which is perfect for photography, hiking and sunrises. This is the best time to visit Chiang Mai, hands down, but do bring a few layers as it gets cooler than you might think. 

⚠️ March to April (Burning Season):
This is when local agricultural burning causes haze and poor air quality in northern Thailand. Visibility can be awful, the heat ramps up and it’s really not the best time for outdoor adventures or photography.

☔ June to October (Rainy Season):
Expect lush green landscapes but also occasional wet and muddy conditions. Some trails close during this time like Kew Mae Pan, which is shut to allow the environment to recover. Pha Dok Siew might still be open, but it can get slippery and unpredictable. If you’re not worried about the hikes, then off-season may be a good time for a cheaper break away and although you may get some cloudier days, you’ll still get some lovely photos.

A shaded dirt trail winds through dense greenery on the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail in Doi Inthanon National Park. A wooden sign reads “Please stay on the trail,” reminding hikers to preserve the delicate ecosystem.

Where to stay in chiang mai

For a first-timer planning a 4 day Chiang Mai itinerary, staying in the Old Town keeps everything walkable and convenient. It’s central, full of character, and perfect if you want to be within strolling distance of temples, cafés, markets and photo spots. For first-timers, it really is a great choice.

That said, we actually stayed just outside the Old Town and it worked out brilliantly.

We were about a 15-minute walk from the centre, right by a 7/11, and stayed at a place called Hotel De Khuvieng. It had a pool, a gym, and was noticeably cheaper than similar spots inside the walls. It also had an epic view from the breakfast room!

A cozy hotel room in Chiang Mai featuring a queen-sized bed with white linens, brown accent pillows, and a wooden headboard. The room has warm yellow walls with striped wallpaper behind the bed, a patterned red rug on a light-tiled floor, and a side table with books and a water bottle. There’s a small couch with bags and clothes, an open doorway leading to the bathroom, and a framed artwork above the bed.
Our bedroom at Hotel De Khuvieng

We love walking cities, you get a much better feel for a place when you’re not just jumping in and out of taxis. 

Staying just outside the moat meant we had to walk in and out each day, and honestly?

It was a highlight. We saw little local cafés, street vendors setting up for the day, and got a much more authentic glimpse of daily life in Chiang Mai.

🛎️ Check out Hotel De Khuvieng 🛎️


Steffan sits at a table inside the breakfast room at Hotel De Khuvieng in Chiang Mai, with three cups of hot drinks in front of him. Through the large windows behind him, a golden sunrise lights up the city skyline and rooftop terrace.
The view from the breakfast room was the best!

We also spent a few nights in an Airbnb apartment during the Lantern Festival, and it was a great option for a bit more space and privacy. There are loads of apartments dotted around Chiang Mai, so if you’re staying for longer or want your own kitchen, it’s definitely worth browsing.

If you’re arriving or departing by train and need a convenient overnight stay, we can recommend Bossotel Chiang Mai. It’s literally across the road from the train station, which makes it ideal if you’ve got an early train to catch or arrive late in the evening.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and there’s even a 7/11 next door for snacks and essentials. And the breakfast buffet was really impressive! We found it to be a really practical and affordable option for a short stay.

Just keep in mind that places do get booked up quickly around festivals (especially Yi Peng), so it’s worth locking in your stay early if you’re visiting at that time.

🛎️ Check out Bossotel Chiang Mai 🛎️


The breakfast buffet at Bossotel Hotel in Chiang Mai features a variety of items including fresh lettuce, jars of sauces and condiments, chopped herbs, and fried shallots, all laid out on a sleek black counter beneath hanging plants and warm lighting.
Breakfast at Bossotel was a great spread!
View from the front of Bossotel Hotel in Chiang Mai looking across the street toward the Chiang Mai Train Station. Tuk-tuks line the curb, and the station’s clock tower is visible under a pastel evening sky.
You could see the train station from Bossotel in Chiang Mai

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Where to eat in chiang mai

Chiang Mai has such a brilliant food scene, especially if you’re plant-based. 

There are loads of vegan and vegetarian restaurants around the city, from cute cafés to full-on noodle joints, and you’ll often find entire streets lined with places to eat. Whether you’re in the mood for Thai classics, smoothie bowls, or something a bit indulgent, you’ll definitely be spoilt for choice.

As vegetarians, we sometimes struggle to find a good variety of dishes when we travel, but Chiang Mai was an absolute dream. It was so easy to find tasty, plant-based options everywhere, without having to hunt them down or compromise on flavour.

Now, we’re not huge foodies BUT we do love eating! 

Steffan sits at a restaurant table in Chiang Mai at Good souls kitchen smiling at the camera, about to enjoy a plant-based sandwich filled with greens and vegan cheese, served with a generous portion of French fries and a side of dipping sauce.
Can you tell how much Steff loves eating? (GoodSouls Kitchen)

We’re usually the kind of travellers who grab something quick before heading back out with the camera or crashing early after a long day. So having plenty of casual, affordable spots nearby was ideal. And honestly, Grab (Thailand’s version of Uber Eats) was a total lifesaver. 

During a stretch where I was really unwell and stuck in bed for two weeks, we lived off Grab deliveries. Everything from vegan noodles to healthy bowls, all brought straight to our door. It’s affordable, reliable, and the variety is amazing.

This section doubles as a mini Chiang Mai vegan food guide for anyone who wants plant-based meals that taste as good as they look. 

Emma smiles at the camera inside a cozy café in Chiang Mai, sitting at a table with a colorful smoothie bowl topped with sliced banana, granola, blueberries, mango chunks, and a purple flower. A napkin labeled “Goodsouls Kitchen” is beside the bowl.

Our top pick? Good Souls Kitchen — hands down our favourite spot in the city. 

It’s fully plant-based, with everything from burgers and curries to cakes and pancakes. Yes, it’s a bit pricier than your average local eatery, but the food is absolutely worth it. Everything’s beautifully made, and it’s a great spot for a relaxed meal after a day of exploring or temple hopping.

And the smoothie bowl is just delicious!

Close-up of a vibrant smoothie bowl served at Goodsouls Kitchen in Chiang Mai, featuring a thick pink smoothie base topped with blueberries, diced mango, granola, mint leaves, and an edible purple flower.
The smoothie bowl at GoodSouls Kitchen was amazing!

Another great find was a little place simply called Ramen. They served up the most delicious veggie and vegan ramen dishes which are flavour-packed and full of fresh ingredients.

And don’t miss the small local places too. Perfect for grabbing an iced coffee or hunting down Steffan’s all-time favourite, mango sticky rice. A lot of simple street stalls now offer vegetarian and vegan twists on classic Thai dishes, and the portion sizes are generous for the price.

Basically, if you’re into food, even just casually like us, Chiang Mai makes eating plant-based really easy.

A sidewalk banner outside a ramen restaurant in Chiang Mai advertises three menu items: Vegan Ramen (139 THB), Tonkotsu Ramen (129 THB), and Tsukemen (139 THB), with photos of each dish. The street scene includes motorbikes, wires, and shop signs.
A bowl of vegetarian ramen served in Chiang Mai, topped with sweetcorn, soft-boiled eggs, sliced bamboo shoots, seaweed, sesame seeds, green onions, and a large sheet of nori, with a red spoon resting in the bowl.

Getting a sim card

Staying connected in Chiang Mai is easy and getting a local SIM card is one of the first things we always do when we arrive.

We recommend going with AIS as they’ve got great coverage across northern Thailand (even out in the mountains) and we’ve always found them reliable. The easiest way is to just pop into an AIS shop once you arrive. The staff are used to helping travellers and they’ll get everything set up for you in a few minutes.

If you’d rather get sorted before you land, you can also opt for an eSIM  just make sure your phone is compatible. We’ve used an eSIM before when we were landing back in the UK and needed something straight away and it was extremely simple to set up and use. More expensive yes, but its worth it if you want a hassle-free experience.

📳 Get your E Sim Here 📳


At Wat Lok Molee in Chiang Mai, a tall brick stupa with carved niches and a pointed golden spire rises behind rows of colorful paper flags in red, orange, gold, purple, and green, each featuring animal symbols.

FAQs: Planning Your 4 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary

Is 4 days enough for Chiang Mai?

Yes — 4 days is a great amount of time to explore a fair photography spots in and near Chiang Mai without feeling rushed. You’ll be able to see some temples, take a day trip into nature, enjoy local food and still have time to soak up the atmosphere. If you’ve got more time, you can definitely see more but four days is a solid intro.

Can you visit Doi Inthanon without a tour?

You can but it’s best if you have your own car or hire a private driver. The park is huge and the best spots for photography are spread out. Tours are convenient, but many don’t arrive early enough for sunrise or golden hour, so it depends on your priorities.

What should I wear when visiting temples in Chiang Mai?

You’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples. Lightweight trousers or a long skirt, plus a loose t-shirt or blouse, work well. We always carry a sarong in our bag just in case. Shoes also need to be taken off before entering temple buildings.

Is Chiang Mai safe for travellers?

Yes, Chiang Mai is considered one of the safest cities in Thailand. It’s very traveller-friendly and we’ve always felt comfortable walking around even at night. Like anywhere, just keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas.

Can you use Grab in Chiang Mai?

Yes  and it works really well. It’s the easiest way to get around if you don’t want to negotiate with tuk-tuk drivers or figure out songthaews. You can also use it for food delivery, which is super handy if you’re having a rest day or feeling under the weather.

A close-up of the large golden Buddha statue seated inside a niche on the stupa at Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai. The Buddha is framed by an arched stone entryway and sits above a cloth-draped ledge.

Where to Go After Chiang Mai – For Travel Photographers

If you’ve already explored Chiang Mai’s old town and ticked Doi Inthanon off your list, you might be wondering where to head next.

Well, Northern Thailand has so much more to offer once you leave the usual tourist trail behind and trust us, the photo opportunities just keep getting better.

Over our three-week adventure, we discovered some absolute gems, the kind of places that no one has heard of but still pack a punch when it comes to scenery, light, and epic landscapes.

Here are are our favourite places for photographers who want to capture something a bit different in the north:👇

Doi Mae Salong – Misty Hills & Tea Plantation Perfection

Doi Mae Salong is a dream for landscape photographers. Think rolling green hills layered in morning mist, rows of perfectly manicured tea plantations, and those soft, hazy sunrises we all live for. The village itself has a fascinating Thai-Chinese heritage too, so there are lovely opportunities for cultural shots and candid portraits if you’re into street photography.

Wat Phra That Santitham Temple in Mae Salong - Thai pink, white and golden temple surrounded by green trees taken with a drone from above

Phu Chi Fa – One for the Sunrise Addicts

This is the sunrise spot in Northern Thailand and possibly one of the most atmospheric we’ve ever experienced. You’ll need to get there early (and bring layers – it gets chilly), but watching the sky glow pink as the clouds float beneath the jagged ridgelines is pure magic. Bring a wide-angle for the landscape and a zoom if you want to pick out figures along the trail.

Misty sea of clouds from Phu Chi Fa viewpoint in North Thailand as the sun rises

Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat, Lampang – The Floating Pagodas

Tucked away in Lampang, this mountaintop temple is one of the most dramatic locations we’ve photographed. The white pagodas perched along the rocky peaks look like they’re floating in the sky. It’s a bit of a climb to get there, but the views from the top are next level. Definitely bring a drone if you have one – the aerial perspective here is unreal.

Drone shot capturing the Lampang floating pagodas perched on a steep, forested mountain ridge, with layers of mist and lush greenery in the distance. A stunning example of travel photography highlighting natural beauty and cultural landmarks.

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Emma and Steffan from Inwanderment standing side by side with lots of large colourful umberellas behind them painted in various ways. taken at a cultural photography location in Java.
Steffan and Emma

Steffan and Emma, a husband-and-wife team from the UK, are the founders of InWanderment, a Travel and Photography blog dedicated to sharing their experiences and insights from around the world.

Steffan is a self-taught photographer who enjoys helping others explore the outdoors through photography. He shares his knowledge to make capturing the beauty of nature accessible to everyone.

Emma is a seasoned traveler and writer who has visited over 40 countries. She uses her love of storytelling to share practical advice and personal experiences, aiming to inspire others to explore new places.

Now back in the UK, they are focusing on creating content from their 18 months of travel across Asia.

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Emma and Steffan from Inwanderment doing the peace sign and one hand in the air with a rice terrace and mountain the background smiling at the camera
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