Chillaxin’ in Chiang Dao
I’ve just discovered what easily could be my favorite place in Thailand. And that’s saying something.
I mean, look at it…
After hearing about Chiang Dao, an area about an hour and a half outside of Chiang Mai, for the past year, I was finally able to steal away for a couple days last week…and already want to go back.
If you’re looking to get away, soak up Northern Thailand’s gorgeous mountains and jungle, eat some incredible food and relax, this is the place. Specifically at the lovely Chiang Dao Nest.
Bungalow at Chiang Dao Nest 1
Not quite sure exactly what this mean, but I appreciate the sentiment…I think
Here you will enjoy a comfy room, friendly staff, beautiful grounds, and incredible food. I love, love, love Thai food...but every once in a while I appreciate a break from it. Not only does the Nest serve a wide variety of Thai and ‘Western’ dishes, they do them right. The Western meals I had were the best I’ve had anywhere in Thailand, making me feel like I was back in Seattle checking out a new restaurant and its local special du jour with my friends – something I really miss. From duck, to salmon, to orange almond cake and red wine, you’ll feel pretty spoiled.
If you can get yourself away from the table, spend the rest of your time relaxing, reading, resting, wandering down little roads surrounded by stunning views and lush greenery, and digesting before your next meal.
Temple and trees. Big trees.
Make your way up the 51o steps to Wat Tham Pha Plong.
This photo was taken halfway up…
I like to consider myself a bit of wat connoisseur. I’ve been to quite a few, and while I still can’t seem to get tired of them, I do have a couple favorites that I compare all others to. Wat Tham Pha Plong is now on the top of that list. Removed from town, up in the mountains, enveloped by trees – you feel like you’ve discovered something special and different from what most other travelers, or locals for that matter, see.
Only a few more steps to go: Wat Tham Pha Plong’s chedi
Even after living in Thailand for more than a year, this place – and Chiang Dao as a whole – was incredible, reminding me how intriguing and exotic this country is.
