“Sometimes, the best part of a long journey is not another destination, but a quiet day to pause, recharge and simply enjoy where we are...”
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| (Tha Phae Gate, old city Chiang Mai) |
Date: 21 September 2026, Monday
Route: Chiang Mai – Free & Easy
Hotel: Star Hotel Chiang Mai
After eight days of driving and moving from one destination to another, today felt like a little gift in the middle of our journey. There was nowhere we needed to rush to, no border to cross and no long stretch of highway waiting ahead of us. Just one easy day in Chiang Mai - to walk, eat, wander, catch up on practical things and, most importantly, rest.
The morning was bright and sunny, so we set off on foot towards Halal Street for breakfast at Alee’s Rotee, a popular and highly rated halal stall well known for its crisp, delicious Thai-style roti. Whenever we are in Chiang Mai, breakfast here is almost a must. Even our Malaysian biker buddies seem to share our fondness for this little favourite.
After breakfast, we continued walking towards Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai’s most famous historical gateway and the eastern entrance to the Old City. The walk itself was enjoyable. Along the way, we admired Chiang Mai’s architectural landscape, where centuries of Lanna heritage blend naturally with remnants of the old timber-trading era and more contemporary tropical designs. From traditional teakwood structures and multi-tiered temple roofs to modern brick and bamboo creations, the city’s architecture reflects the distinctive cultural character of northern Thailand.
Tha Phae Gate was originally built during the reign of King Mangrai, as part of the defensive walls and moat system surrounding the newly established capital of the Lanna Kingdom. The gateway we see today, however, is a reconstruction of the original structure.
By the time we returned to the hotel, our four-kilometre walk had left us hot and sweaty. Chiang Mai’s rainy season generally runs from June to October. Mornings can often be bright and warm, with heavier showers arriving later in the afternoon or evening. These wetter months also tend to bring lower hotel rates, making the city attractive to budget-conscious travellers.
Back in the cool comfort of our room, we took the opportunity to complete our online booking for the next leg of our travels - a return flight from Bangkok to Da Lat, Vietnam. We are planning a five-night escape there to explore the city and its surrounding attractions. We also booked Hotel Du Lys, conveniently located near the lively Da Lat Market and within easy reach of many of the city’s central attractions.
It is always exciting to have the next journey quietly taking shape while we are still in the middle of the present one.
By lunchtime, hunger called again, and we made another walk to Halal Street, this time for Khao Soi Islam. Located just a short walk from the Night Bazaar and beside Hidayatul Islam Banhaw Mosque, this long-established halal restaurant has been serving Thai-Muslim food for more than 40 years.
We ordered their signature Beef Khao Soi. Unlike some versions that are rich and heavily laden with santan, the broth here was clearer, fragrant and savoury, with a wonderfully aromatic spice profile and less sweetness. It was comforting, flavourful and just right for lunch.
Back at the hotel, we noticed that more guests were checking into the Star Hotel today. Its convenient location near the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar makes it a popular choice, particularly for travellers arriving by public or commercial transport.
Our laundry was ready for collection too. During these long road trips, a full-service wash-and-fold is definitely our preferred option. It saves us time and, more importantly, keeps the travelling wardrobe under control!
For dinner, we picked up takeaway doner kebabs and falafel rolls from Little Istanbul, a halal Turkish restaurant in the lively Night Bazaar area, known for its Turkish and Mediterranean street food. We took our takeaway dinner to Anusarn Market, where we enjoyed our kebabs and falafel rolls while soaking in the evening atmosphere. The market comes alive at night, with visitors able to enjoy traditional Thai music and Lanna cultural dance performances, alongside its many food stalls and entertainment options.
And just like that, our last evening in Chiang Mai came to a close. After eight days of being constantly on the move, this quiet day gave us the chance to rest and recharge before the journey continues.
Tomorrow, the wheels will turn again. We will drive for about seven hours along Highway 1 towards Nakhon Sawan - a city we have passed many times but never stayed overnight.
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