Today was one of those classic Chiang Mai days that blend a bit of wonder, a dash of challenge, and plenty of heart. We set off to explore two of the Old City’s most revered temples Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang but as any parent knows, little legs and big feelings can steer the best-laid plans into something uniquely memorable.
Our morning began at Wat Phra Singh, a temple that feels almost alive with history and devotion. The sweeping roofs, the towering golden chedi, and the elegant Lanna architecture instantly caught our girls’ attention.
Georgia was captivated by the intricate murals inside the Viharn Lai Kham and loved spotting the little details mythical creatures, monks with wise expressions, golden lotus motifs. Dotty, on the other hand, wasn’t quite feeling the temple energy today. Sometimes the crowds and the heat can be a bit much, and that’s okay
Instead of pushing on, we decided to slow down and regroup over lunch. We found a cosy café nearby, where everyone could recharge. A couple of drinks, some sticky rice, and a few giggles later, spirits were lifted.
With full tummies and a second wind, we made our way to Wat Chedi Luang. Even after seeing so many temples on our travels, this one still managed to impress. The massive brick chedi partially ruined but beautifully imposing has a kind of gravity that’s hard to describe, it felt like it should have been in Peru!
The Emerald Buddha (now in Bangkok) was once kept here. We walked around the base, peeking at the stone elephant carvings and imagining what it must have looked like centuries ago.
Dotty was content to hang out on Ali’s back, happy to laugh at Georgia and us if she wasn’t walking and even though not ideal it’s these quiet moments beside ancient stones that feel the most special.
After a morning of exploring, we headed back to our hotel. Dotty drifted into a well deserved nap, recharging her batteries. Meanwhile, Georgia and I took did some math homework, after Dotty woke up we took the chance to cool off with a swim. There’s something so satisfying about sliding into the water after a day of wandering hot streets it felt like the perfect reset.
Reflections on the Day
Travelling as a family isn’t always about ticking off every landmark or squeezing in every sight. Today reminded us that it’s okay to go at our own pace, to pause when someone needs a breather, and to balance adventure with comfort.
Chiang Mai’s temples have a way of making you feel small in the best sense connected to centuries of stories and traditions. Even if our day wasn’t picture perfect, it was exactly the kind of day we’ll look back on fondly a little bit of history, a lot of heart, and just enough splashing around to end it right.
Tips
If you’re visiting Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang with little ones, start early to beat the heat, bring plenty of water, and don’t feel pressured to see it all in one go. A relaxed pace makes for happier explorers.
