Cassandra NervaIt’s official: Chiang Mai is reopening its borders to fully vaccinated travellers from 1 Oct 2021! This decision was announced following the successful Phuket Sandbox, Samui Plus, and 7+7 Extension Programmes. As a result, since 1 July 2021, over 27,000 international tourists have travelled to Thailand!
Also read: 10 Reasons Why Koh Samui Is a Destination You Need to Add to Your Must-Visit List
This time, under the Charming Chiang Mai campaign, international tourists who are fully vaccinated from countries with low COVID-19 risk are welcome to visit the alluring province. However, as a start, Chiang Mai will only be partially reopening four of its districts. Collectively, these areas will be known as Bubble Sealed Route areas.
Chiang Mai’s Bubble Sealed Route Areas
1. Mueang Chiang Mai District
City Pillar Shrine or San Lak Muang | Image credit: Tim Durgan
Firstly, the Mueang Chiang Mai District is the capital district of Chiang Mai Province. Here, you can find The Old City, as well as numerous temples. For instance, the famous 14th-century Wat Phra Singh and 15th-century Wat Chedi Luang grace the city’s landscape with intricately carved sculptures.
2. Mae Rim District
Mae Sa Waterfall | Image credit: Hdamm
Secondly, Mae Rim District is a small town that lies in central Chiang Mai. Nature lovers, rejoice! Mae Rim is known for its abundant reserves, from the picturesque Mae Sa Waterfall and Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden, to the Mae Sa Elephant Camp and Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park. Hence, there are plenty of majestic sights to enjoy in nature here!
Besides that, adventurous souls will truly enjoy seeking out Mae Rim’s many hidden restaurants and gems.
Also read: Chiang Mai Food Guide: 7 Local Delicacies to Try!
3. Mae Taeng District
Doi Mon Ngo Summit Viewpoint | Image credit: Oatfeelgood via CanvaPro
Next, Mae Taeng District lies in northern Chiang Mai, and is surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic viewpoints atop mountains. Some examples include the picturesque Doi Mon Ngo Summit Viewpoint, the riverside neighborhood of Mae Ngat Somboon Chon Dam, and the charming landscape of Huai Nam Dang National Park.
4. Doi Tao
Wat Phra Borommathat Doi Koeng | Image credit: PongsakornJun via CanvaPro
Finally, the southern district of Doi Tao is home to many temples, as well as the famous Doi Tao Lake and Mae Ping National Park. However, with large parts of Doi Tao filled with villages, you’re certainly in for a humble journey into the everyday lives of locals.
Explore Chiang Mai in tour groups
Image credit: Kentaro Toma
On that note, all fully vaccinated tourists to Chiang Mai are required to join a tour operated by local authorities. Luckily, there are a total of seven tour packages available to suit different travellers and travelling styles! Some of the packages include tours suited for families, including ones centred on health and wellness, sports, and others.
Make the most of your Thai vacation with Phuket and Chiang Mai
Image credit: Mike Swigunski
With Chiang Mai reopening soon, direct flights are also available between Phuket and Chiang Mai. Therefore, plans are currently underway by the Tourism Authority of Thailand for a seven-day stay in Phuket, followed by a seven-day stay in Chiang Mai! Having said that, we suggest keeping your eyes peeled over on their website for any further updates!
So, what are you waiting for? With Chiang Mai reopening its borders well before the end of the year, why not make a trip to this underrated destination in Thailand?
Information extracted from a press release issued by the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
