Family Travel/Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Kids Travel Guide

Discover the Rose of the North. Plan a perfect kid-friendly family adventure with local tips and curated day-by-day itineraries.

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Best Time

November to February

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Avoid

March to May (smoky and hot)

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Arrival

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)

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Transport

Songthaew (red trucks) or private van with car seats

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Rating

9.5 / 10

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Travel Insights

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Expected Weather (August)

24°C - 32°C

Rainy

Expected Crowds (August)

Low

Carry umbrellas & raincoats! ☂️

Choose Your Duration

Pick how long you plan to stay in Chiang Mai using the selector below.👇

Aesthetic Summary

Perfect for Families who love history, temples, and gentle cultural experiences

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DAY 1

Old City Temples & Culture

🗺️ Today's Route

Wat Phra Singh Woramahawiharn

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Visit Chiang Mai's most revered temple, home to the famous Phra Singh Buddha image. Explore the beautiful Lanna-style architecture, the main chapel (viharn), and the gleaming chedi. Kids will love spotting the golden umbrellas and intricate naga (serpent) staircases.

Kid-proof

The temple grounds are spacious and stroller-friendly. Kids can walk around and see the 'talking' parrots near the entrance. Remind them to be respectful inside the chapel – no running or loud voices.

Pro Tip

Dress modestly – shoulders and knees covered. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on stone paths. Entry is free for Thais, but foreigners pay a small fee (around 20 THB).

Open daily 6 AM - 5 PM. Admission: 20 THB for adults, free for kids under 120 cm. Restrooms available.

🎒 Pack for this:

Water bottleSunscreenHatCamera

Wat Chedi Luang & Three Kings Monument

10:45 AM - 12:00 PM

Walk 10 minutes to Wat Chedi Luang, famous for its massive, partially ruined chedi built in the 14th century. See the 'City Pillar' (Inthakhin) and the reclining Buddha. Then, head to the Three Kings Monument square, a popular meeting point with a bronze statue of the three Lanna kings.

Kid-proof

Kids can climb the steps to the chedi (supervised) and enjoy the open courtyard. The monument square is great for a quick photo op and a run around. There's often a small market nearby.

Pro Tip

Wat Chedi Luang entrance is 40 THB per adult (kids free). The square has benches and shade. Watch out for pigeons – kids may enjoy feeding them (buy a small bag from vendors).

Wat Chedi Luang open daily 6 AM - 6 PM. Three Kings Monument is a public square, open 24/7.

🎒 Pack for this:

SnacksHand sanitizerSmall change for offerings

Lunch at Huen Phen Restaurant

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Enjoy authentic northern Thai food in a charming antique-filled house. Try khao soi (curry noodle soup), sai ua (northern sausage), and sticky rice with mango. The restaurant has a kids menu and high chairs.

Kid-proof

Kids will love the quirky decorations (old clocks, statues) and the tasty, mild versions of Thai dishes. Ask for less spice if needed.

Pro Tip

Located at 112 Rachamankha Rd, just a short walk from Wat Chedi Luang. Open 10 AM - 9 PM. Prices are moderate. Book ahead for dinner, but lunch is usually fine.

Average meal cost: 150-250 THB per person. Cash only.

🎒 Pack for this:

Wet wipesSmall toy to keep kids occupied

Thai Cooking Class for Families at 'Baan Thai Cookery School'

2:30 PM - 5:00 PM

Join a family-friendly cooking class where you'll visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients, then learn to make 3-4 dishes like pad thai, spring rolls, and mango sticky rice. The class is hands-on and adjusted for kids – they can help stir, chop (with supervision), and taste.

Kid-proof

Kids aged 5+ can participate fully; younger ones can watch and help with non-sharp tasks. The instructors are patient and fun. End of class, everyone eats what they made!

Pro Tip

Book in advance online or via your hotel. Class includes market tour, all ingredients, and recipes to take home. Duration is about 3 hours. Transfer from old city hotels is included.

Cost: around 1,200 THB per adult, 600 THB per child (under 12). Afternoon class starts at 2:30 PM. Check their website for availability.

🎒 Pack for this:

CameraAppetiteComfortable shoes

Explore the Sunday Walking Street (if Sunday)

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

If your visit falls on a Sunday, stroll down Ratchadamnoen Road for the famous Walking Street market. Browse handmade crafts, try street food, and watch live performances. Kids will love the colorful lanterns and the chance to buy small toys.

Kid-proof

It can get crowded, so hold hands with little ones. There are many food stalls with kid-friendly options like grilled bananas, fruit smoothies, and ice cream.

Pro Tip

The market runs from 5 PM to 10 PM. Bring cash in small denominations. Start early to avoid the worst crowds. If not Sunday, consider the Night Bazaar on Chang Klan Road instead.

Free entry. Food items from 20 THB. Souvenirs from 50 THB.

🎒 Pack for this:

Stroller (if young kids)Backpack for purchasesHand wipes

Dinner at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

End the day with a relaxing dinner on the banks of the Ping River. The restaurant has a playground for kids and a terrace where you can watch boats go by. Try their Thai and international dishes, and kids can have pizza or fried rice.

Kid-proof

The playground is a big hit – kids can burn off energy while parents enjoy a drink. The river view is lovely at sunset.

Pro Tip

Located at 9-11 Charoenrat Road. Open 11 AM - 11 PM. Book a table on the terrace for the best view. High chairs available.

Main courses from 200 THB. Kids menu available.

🎒 Pack for this:

Light jacket for eveningMosquito repellent

💡 Daily Pro Tips

•Wear modest clothing for temple visits – cover shoulders and knees. Sarongs can be rented at some temples.
•Start early to beat the heat and crowds. Temples are less busy before 10 AM.
•Use a songthaew (red truck) to get around – agree on the fare before getting in (usually 20-40 THB per person within old city).
•Stay hydrated – carry water bottles and refill at your hotel or restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chiang Mai

What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai with kids?▼

The best time to visit Chiang Mai with children is November to February. Avoid travelling during March to May (smoky and hot).

How do I get around Chiang Mai with children?▼

In Chiang Mai, families typically use Songthaew (red trucks) or private van with car seats. Always confirm child-seat availability in advance.

What airport serves Chiang Mai?▼

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)

What languages are spoken in Chiang Mai?▼

The primary languages in Chiang Mai are Thai, English. English is generally understood in tourist areas.

Is Chiang Mai safe for family travel?▼

Chiang Mai is generally safe for families. KidsVentura itineraries are designed with child safety in mind — we recommend kid-friendly attractions, restaurants with high chairs, and comfortable transit routes.

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