The Quiet Side of the City: A 10-Minute Guide to Local Chiang Mai
Like many cities around the world, the hidden charm of Chiang Mai lies in its local communities rather than just its famous tourist spots. Sareeviangping Hotel—nestled between the bustling downtown and the calmer nature of the Mae Rim district—offers a great chance to explore the local charm on foot. Within just a 10-minute stroll, you can experience both a tranquil waterfront rejuvenation project and a deeply spiritual historical site within the Ban Phra Non community. Here is your guide to two must-visit spots right in the hotel’s backyard.
Mae Kha Canal: Ban Phra Non Waterfront (ท่าน้ำแม่ข่าบ้านพระนอน)
Walking distance: Around 5–7 minutes
Description: A natural waterway crucial to the establishment of the city 700 years ago, Mae Kha Canal has undergone a revitalization inspired by the development of the Otaru Canal in Japan and Cheonggyecheon in South Korea. This section of the Mae Kha Canal offers a more peaceful experience than its counterpart in the downtown area.
The Highlight: A boardwalk lined with flowers and local homes. The water is clean, and the atmosphere is serene. It’s a prime spot for a morning jog or an evening stroll through a calm neighborhood.
Tips: The best time to visit is late afternoon (around 4:30 PM) to catch the golden hour and the cool breeze.
Wat Phra Non (Khon Muang) (วัดพระนอน ขอนม่วง)
Walking distance: Around 8–10 minutes
Description: Just a few minutes from the canal is Wat Phra Non, a historical temple estimated to have been built roughly 500–600 years ago.
The Highlight: The temple is famous for its 15-meter-long reclining Buddha statue that houses the hair and ash relics of former Buddhas. The temple is built in a rare, windowless Lanna style with intricate wood carvings and distinctive rooflines. Unlike busier temples, you can enjoy meditative silence here without the commotion of large tour groups.
Tips: Remember to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering the temple buildings.
If you’re ready to venture slightly further than a walk, hopping in a car for a little over 10 minutes from the hotel opens up a variety of larger attractions.
Highland People Discovery Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์เรียนรู้ราษฎรบนพื้นที่สูง)
Drive time: Around 5 minutes
Description: A cultural site located within Rama IX Lanna Park, this museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the nine major hill tribes of Northern Thailand.
The Highlight: An indoor exhibition showcasing beautiful traditional costumes, intricate silver jewelry, agricultural tools, and musical instruments, as well as an outdoor area where replicas of traditional tribal huts are set around a peaceful lake.
Tips: The museum is open daily from 9:00 - 16:00 but is closed on public holidays.
Princess Sirindhorn AstroPark (อุทยานดาราศาสตร์สิรินธร เชียงใหม่)
Drive time: Around 10 minutes
Description: The park serves as the headquarters for the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand. Featuring 19 different zones that cover everything from basic astronomy to advanced astrophysics, it is the best place in Northern Thailand to experience space.
The Highlight: Enjoy guided stargazing sessions in the 8K Digital Planetarium, interactive exhibitions focused on light, sound, energy, and planetary forces, and a dedicated learning center designed to inspire children to pursue careers in science and technology.
Tips: The park is closed on Mondays. Visit their website for the Planetarium show schedule.
Huay Tung Tao Lake (ห้วยตึงเฒ่า)
Drive time: Around 10–15 minutes
Description: This is the "local beach" of Chiang Mai. It is a large reservoir surrounded by mountains, perfect for a relaxing evening.
The Highlight: Famous for the massive King Kong straw sculptures and various farm and water activities, such as sheep feeding, rafting, and kayaking.
Tips: You can sit in small bamboo huts (shacks) over the water and order local dishes like Som Tum (papaya salad).