Chiang Mai with AVIS: An Introvert Escape,
Vegan Journey & Birthday Bliss

Chiang Mai is often called the cultural heart of northern Thailand — a city where ancient temples, mountain forests, and creative cafés exist in perfect balance. This trip, however, wasn’t just about sightseeing. It was about creating a journey that reflected introversion, mindfulness, and a quiet birthday celebration.

With AVIS Thailand, I had the freedom to travel at my own pace, curating a route that led me from sacred temples to hidden forests, from vegan dining spots to boutique hotels. Each stop was made easier, safer, and more comfortable with the reliability of AVIS.

🛕 Temples & Sacred Sites

Chiang Mai is home to hundreds of temples, many of them outside the usual tourist trail. With a rental car, reaching them becomes effortless.

• Wat Ban Den (วัดบ้านเด่น / Wat Bandensali Si Mueang Kaen)
  Known as the “Blue Temple of the North,” this spectacular complex in Mae Taeng dazzles with bright blue roofs, golden naga sculptures, and zodiac stupas surrounding the central chedi. From the hillside, panoramic views stretch across the valley.
   | 🕘 6:00–18:00 daily | 🎟 Free entry

• Dan Tewada Land of Angels (ดินแดนเทวดา)
  A whimsical garden filled with celestial statues and mythological figures, blending spirituality with artistry. Walking through feels like stepping into a dreamscape of angels and guardians.
  | 🕘 8:00–17:00 daily | 🎟 50 THB

• Wat Umong (วัดอุโมงค์)
  Built in the 13th century, this forest monastery is famous for its meditation tunnels, moss-covered chedis, and tranquil pond. It’s one of the most peaceful temples for quiet reflection.
   🕘 6:00–17:00 daily | 🎟 Free entry

• Wat Sri Don Moon (วัดศรีดอนมูล)
  A temple with a striking golden pagoda and vibrant murals. Known for community-centered activities, it’s often less crowded, making it a serene stop.
   🕘 7:00–18:00 daily | 🎟 Free entry

• Wat Phra That Doi Kham (วัดพระธาตุดอยคำ)
  Famous for its giant seated Buddha and panoramic views over Chiang Mai. Locals visit to pray for fortune and success, making it both a spiritual and cultural landmark.
   🕘 6:00–18:00 daily | 🎟 Free entry

🌲 Nature & Hidden Gems

Driving with AVIS meant I could reach quiet corners of Chiang Mai’s countryside with ease — places where public transport rarely goes.

• Mae Tang Pine Forest (ป่าสนแม่แตง)
  Rows of tall pine trees create a peaceful forest perfect for photography, picnics, or a calm walk. The atmosphere feels more European than tropical.
   🎟 Free entry

• Mae Kampong Village (หมู่บ้านแม่กำปอง)
  A mountain village about 1.5 hours’ drive from the city. Known for its cool climate, eco-homestays, coffee plantations, and seven-tiered waterfall, it’s a favorite for slow travelers. The winding drive up was secure and comfortable in AVIS’s 4×4 — perfect for reaching my stay at Lan Na Wild.
   🕘 Open daily | 🎟 Free entry

🥗 Vegan Dining in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is Asia’s hidden gem for plant-based dining, with creative chefs reinventing local and global flavors.

• Amore Italian Food & Pizza
  Comfort food with vegan-friendly options, ideal for casual evenings.
  

• Moreganic Vegan Food
  An organic vegan restaurant set in a serene garden space, offering healthy and beautifully presented dishes.
  

• Goodsouls Kitchen
  A cult favorite for visitors and locals, serving everything from smoothie bowls to hearty curries and plant-based desserts.
  

🏨 Where I Stayed

Having the flexibility of AVIS meant I could combine city comfort with forest retreat — experiencing two sides of Chiang Mai.

• Meliá Chiang Mai
  A modern luxury hotel with Spanish flair, located right in the heart of the city. Its rooftop bar offers some of the best sunset views in Chiang Mai.
  

• Lan Na Wild
  A boutique jungle retreat surrounded by forest, perfect for couples and travelers seeking quiet seclusion. The drive there was a highlight itself, with winding mountain roads framed by nature.
  

🎂 A Journey of Balance

This Chiang Mai trip was more than a holiday — it was a journey where introversion, mindfulness, and birthday bliss came together. From sacred temples to vegan dining, pine forests to boutique hotels, every stop reflected a side of me.

Thanks to AVIS, I had the comfort and flexibility to travel without pressure, to pause where I wanted, and to celebrate in my own rhythm.

In the end, it wasn’t just a road trip. It was a reminder that sometimes, the greatest luxury is the freedom to travel at your own pace. 💙 Book your car and drive in Chiangmai now!