The Ada House journal
Things to do
Local culture, hidden corners and practical tips — from the people who actually live here.
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs: an easy soak near Chiang Mai
Geysers, a warm foot-soaking stream and baskets of eggs you boil in the spring — San Kamphaeng is the easiest hot-springs escape from the city. Here's the guide.
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Meeting elephants in Chiang Mai, ethically
Meeting elephants is on almost everyone's list. How you do it matters enormously — here's how to choose a genuinely ethical place, and what to expect.
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Cycling & mountain biking in Chiang Mai
Flat rice-field lanes one morning, a lung-busting mountain climb the next — Chiang Mai is one of Asia's best cycling bases. Here's where to ride and how.
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Hiking & trekking around Chiang Mai
Forest trails above the city, hill-tribe homestays deep in the jungle, and Thailand's highest peaks — Chiang Mai is a trekking paradise. Here's how to do it well.
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Pai: a slow mountain escape from Chiang Mai
When Chiang Mai feels too fast (it won't, but bear with us), Pai is the answer — a tiny mountain town built for doing very little, beautifully.
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Doi Inthanon: a day on the roof of Thailand
Thailand's highest mountain is a day trip from the house — twin pagodas, waterfalls, cloud forest and proper cool air. Bring a jacket; here's the plan.
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Chiang Mai's waterfalls: the sticky one and more
When the afternoon heat gets much, the answer is a waterfall. Several are under an hour away — and one of them you can actually climb.
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The Grand Canyon at Hang Dong: a hot-season cool-off
When the hot season bites, the flooded quarry south of town is the most fun way to cool off. Here's the playful version and the safety version.
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A day trip to Chiang Rai: the White & Blue temples
Three hours north sit two of Thailand's most jaw-dropping temples. They make a big day out of Chiang Mai — here's how to do it well.
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