Treading Traditions and Inspiration: A Cultural Journey in Chiang Mai with Natalia
Your TourHero
Hi! I'm Natalia! I'm an LA based fashion designer with a focus on sustainability. I love to travel and take inspiration from the places I visit while also learning about the ways in which different cultures approach fashion, textiles, and sustainability as a whole. If you're into cultural trips, nature, and fashion - this one's for you!
Duration
6 days · 5 nights
Travel Date
Nov 13 – 18, 2025
Activity Level
Light
Group Size
6 – 10
Transportation
Van
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
Culture, arts, sightseeing, relaxation, community
Your Local Guide
Nicha Exploration was established in 2022 by Bo Srivalwat with a passion to make vacationing to Southeast Asia, her home region, special to everyone. Bo was born and raised in Thailand. Growing up, she found joy and peace through traveling and exploring different cultures and activities.
During her time at business school, Bo also led the Thailand Cultural Trek for the Wharton Southeast Asia Club, utilizing her expertise as a local, as well as her understanding about traveling as an active traveler herself. She was overwhelmed by the positive feedback she received from the trek members and decided to start Nicha Exploration. With local expertise and the love of their country and culture, the Nicha team crafts vacation experiences that provide not only ultimate leisure but also personal growth and unique experiences for travelers.
Join me as we trace the threads and follow the colors to Thailand's cultural capital in the north in search of inspiration. We'll transport ourselves to Chiang Mai and spend six days immersed in the vibrant local culture. We'll spend time with local artisans in a handicraft workshop to pick up traditional folding, tying, and color-dyeing techniques. We'll spend a morning with local chefs for the culinary arts, learning to whip up classic Thai dishes using traditional Thai cooking techniques. On a temple tour, we'll visit sacred sites like Doi Suthep Temple and tap into Chiang Mai's spiritual heritage. We'll also visit an elephant sanctuary and a Sunday night market to complete our experience. Between all that, enjoy free time to explore Chiang Mai and allow your creative energy to flow, going where your heart takes you. Come with me, and let's get inspired together!
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for balance payment
If you cancel your trip on or before Sep 9, 2025 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT +7), you will get a refund of the remaining balance. This may or may not include the deposit amount. See deposit refund section above.
If you cancel your trip from Sep 10, 2025 at 12:00 AM local time (GMT +7) onwards, no refunds will be issued.
You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.
Trip disclaimer
To offer you the best deals and group rates, we need a minimum number of travelers to book this trip. If this number is not met, or an act of force majeure occurs, TourHero, the trip host, and the tour operator may make the call to cancel or reschedule. If the departure is canceled or rescheduled out of your control, you will be alerted by September 9, 2025, and will receive a full refund.
We recommend booking refundable flights/accommodations just in case. This protects you from losing your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, or any other cost associated with planning your trip.
Your TourHero
Hi! I'm Natalia! I'm an LA based fashion designer with a focus on sustainability. I love to travel and take inspiration from the places I visit while also learning about the ways in which different cultures approach fashion, textiles, and sustainability as a whole. If you're into cultural trips, nature, and fashion - this one's for you!
Duration
6 days · 5 nights
Travel Date
Nov 13 – 18, 2025
Activity Level
Light
Group Size
6 – 10
Transportation
Van
Join me as we trace the threads and follow the colors to Thailand's cultural capital in the north in search of inspiration. We'll transport ourselves to Chiang Mai and spend six days immersed in the vibrant local culture. We'll spend time with local artisans in a handicraft workshop to pick up traditional folding, tying, and color-dyeing techniques. We'll spend a morning with local chefs for the culinary arts, learning to whip up classic Thai dishes using traditional Thai cooking techniques. On a temple tour, we'll visit sacred sites like Doi Suthep Temple and tap into Chiang Mai's spiritual heritage. We'll also visit an elephant sanctuary and a Sunday night market to complete our experience. Between all that, enjoy free time to explore Chiang Mai and allow your creative energy to flow, going where your heart takes you. Come with me, and let's get inspired together!
Timeline
- Day 1 · November 13, 2025 · Chiang Mai
- Arrive at airport in Chiang Mai
- Group transfer from airport to accommodation
- Check-in at Novotel Nimman Journeyhub Chiang Mai (or similar according to availability)
- Free time
- Welcome dinner (not included in price)
- Day 2 · November 14, 2025 · Chiang Mai
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Chiang Mai Temple Tour
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Free time
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 3 · November 15, 2025 · Chiang Mai
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Local handicraft workshop
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Silk store visit
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 4 · November 16, 2025 · Chiang Mai
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Elephant sanctuary visit
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Free time
- Sunday night market visit and dinner (not included in price)
- Day 5 · November 17, 2025 · Chiang Mai
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Thai Food Cooking Class with lunch
- Free time
- Farewell dinner at Michelin Guide rated restaurant (not included in price)
- Day 6 · November 18, 2025 · Departure
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Check out of the accommodation
- Group transfer from accommodation to airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1 · November 13, 2025
Welcome to Chiang Mai, and thank you for joining us!
-We'll touch down in the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, where vibrant traditions meet lush green mountains.
-Meet up with the group and take the transfer to our stylish accommodation, perfectly located to explore the city's creative heart.
-After settling in, feel free to stroll around the trendy Nimman neighborhood or enjoy some quiet time to recharge.
-In the evening, we'll gather for a welcome dinner to break the ice, get to know each other, and set the stage of the adventures that lie ahead!
Day 2 · November 14, 2025
Discover sacred temples and hidden treasures
-Good morning! Welcome the new day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Today, we'll dive into Chiang Mai's spiritual heritage.
-Set off for a tour of Chiang Mai's sacred temples.
-Visit the iconic Doi Suthep Temple, where a golden chedi sparkles against panoramic views of the city. Wander through the serene Pha Lat Temple, a hidden gem tucked into lush greenery. Admire the intricate beauty of the Silver Temple, with its shimmering handcrafted details.
-The rest of the day will be at your leisure. We can go explore Nimman together and appreciate its arts scene, or you can lay back and relax at the hotel — the choice is yours!
Day 3 · November 15, 2025
Find inspiration between the threads in a handicraft workshop and silk store visit
-Dive into the world of traditional Thai textile art with a hands-on workshop!
-We'll get the chance to learn folding and tying techniques from local artisans to create your own patterns on fabrics. Learn to use natural, eco-friendly dyes made from plants and herbs to add vibrant colors to your design. The workshop is located in a bustling handicraft market, perfect for picking up unique textile souvenirs.
-In the afternoon, we'll discover the beauty of Thai silk at a local store that showcases the silk-making process, from nurturing silkworms to dyeing and weaving intricate patterns. Marvel at the vibrant displays of handwoven fabrics that celebrate the artistry of the region.
Day 4 · November 16, 2025
Spend the day with gentle giants before soaking in the vibes at a night market
-Start the morning with nourishing breakfast before heading off for an unforgettable day with some of Chiang Mai’s most majestic residents.
-Interact with rescued elephants in a one-of-a-kind experience at an elephant sanctuary. Observe their natural behaviors, feed them, and watch them as they cool off in an outdoor shower.
-The elephants at the sanctuary have been domesticated since birth and are abandoned or retired from the hospitality and entertainment industries. Unable to be reintroduced into the wild, the sanctuary provides them with a haven.
-At night, we'll dive into the lively energy of Chiang Mai's Sunday Night Market. Savor sizzling street food, browse stalls of unique handicrafts and trendy fashion, and soak in cultural performances as the streets come alive.
Day 5 · November 17, 2025
Learn the techniques of Thailand's culinary arts
-Learn the ways of Thailand's culinary arts in a Thai cooking class. In an intimate, hands-on class led by local chefs, we'll create iconic dishes using traditional techniques and fresh ingredients, and take home recipes to relive the flavors of Thailand long after your trip.
-The schedule for the afternoon is kept clear. It's our penultimate day in Chiang Mai. Go check off your bucket list!
-Celebrate our last evening together with a sophisticated dining experience at on of Chiang Mai's Michelin-recommended restaurants. Over food exploding with traditional Thai flavors, we'll reminisce our time together.
Day 6 · November 18, 2025
Head home with a head full of memories and bag full of inspiration
-All good things must end, and that's true for the great trip we've had as well. Savor one final breakfast at the hotel before preparing to head home.
-After checking out, make your way to the airport via group transfer.
-Thank you for joining us in Chiang Mai. Though the trip concludes here, the experiences, connections, and inspiration we've gathered will stay with us. Safe travels, and don't be a stranger!
Accommodation
Novotel Nimman Journeyhub Chiang Mai (or similar)
The Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman JourneyHub is a 4-star hotel situated in the vibrant heart of Chiang Mai, just 500 meters away from the bustling MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Mall and its associated theaters. Ideal for both business and leisure travelers, the hotel offers an array of accommodations from brand new guest rooms equipped with modern amenities to rooms offering breathtaking views. On-site facilities are extensive, including a fitness center, meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 250 guests, and an outdoor swimming pool that features a rooftop bar for the ultimate sundown experience. Dining options are abundant, with the signature all-day dining restaurant, Food Exchange, offering a mix of authentic northern Thai and international cuisine. For a more casual setting, the Gourmet Bar in the hotel's garden alfresco atrium serves drinks, pastries, and light bites. With wheelchair accessibility, well-being options, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and more, the hotel ensures a comfortable and convenient stay. Room type: Double occupancy.
Included
5 nights in Novotel Nimman Journeyhub Chiang Mai (or similar)
Shared double occupancy in accommodation
Group airport transfers (arrival and departure)
All breakfasts
All activities described in the itinerary
Private tour guide for the group
Activities and attraction fee for included activities
Private van transfer from hotel to activity venues
Not included
Flights
All food and drinks not mentioned in inclusions
Optional add-ons
Travel insurance
Gratuities
Airport transfers (see add-ons)
FAQ
What happens if I need to cancel my trip?
Please check the cancellation policy section on this itinerary page for specific details.
Will TourHero or the operator take care of my visa (if applicable)?
Travelers are responsible for researching visa requirements and obtaining a visa if needed. Please check government websites to ensure you have the necessary documents, along with passport requirements, before your departure date. This includes necessary transit visas, permits, and vaccinations required prior to travel and any required reciprocity fees for the destination. TourHero will provide a booking confirmation document after purchase, which may be needed to obtain a visa.
If your visa is denied for any reason, TourHero will issue a refund based on the cancellation policy. However, we are unable to provide a refund after the cancellation due date has passed.
Do I need a passport for this trip?
A full and valid passport is required for all persons traveling to any destination outside of one’s home country. Most international tours require a passport that's valid for at least six (6) months beyond the scheduled end of your itinerary. TourHero will not issue refunds based on passport issues such as renewals or lost passports.
What's included in the price?
Please check the inclusion and exclusion sections above. You'll find information about included meals, transfers, flights, and activities. If you have any questions or need support, please contact hello@tourhero.com.
Available add-on
Single supplement room upgrade for the entire trip
Want a little more privacy during your trip? Select this single supplement add-on and have a room all to yourself.
Price: USD 394
Sold out
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for balance payment
If you cancel your trip on or before Sep 9, 2025 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT +7), you will get a refund of the remaining balance. This may or may not include the deposit amount. See deposit refund section above.
If you cancel your trip from Sep 10, 2025 at 12:00 AM local time (GMT +7) onwards, no refunds will be issued.
You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.
Trip disclaimer
To offer you the best deals and group rates, we need a minimum number of travelers to book this trip. If this number is not met, or an act of force majeure occurs, TourHero, the trip host, and the tour operator may make the call to cancel or reschedule. If the departure is canceled or rescheduled out of your control, you will be alerted by September 9, 2025, and will receive a full refund.
We recommend booking refundable flights/accommodations just in case. This protects you from losing your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, or any other cost associated with planning your trip.
- Single supplement add-on - Unsplash: Rhema Kallianpur
- Welcome to Chiang Mai! This city is the former seat of the Lanna Kingdom and houses an ancient cityscape mixed within the modern innovation of downtown. - Unsplash: Peter Borter
- As nightfall descends, prepare to plunge into the vibrant heartbeat of the Chiang Mai Night Market. Indulge your palate with an array of street food, wander among countless stalls, and purchase handicrafts and traditional Thai souvenirs. - Yoav Aziz
- Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub - Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub
- Add-on: Airport transfer - Unsplash: Jessica Furtney
- Learn to prepare some authentic dishes during a fun and immersive cooking class. - Paul Rogers
- Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub - Accor
- Explore the ancient allure of Chiang Mai through a temple tour! - Wikimedia Commons
- We will gather for a welcome dinner, celebrating the fun times to come. - Stephanie McCabe
- Novotel Nimman Journeyhub Chiang Mai - Novotel Nimman Journeyhub Chiang Mai
- Embark on a one-of-a-kind experience at an ethical elephant sanctuary, where you can interact closely with these majestic creatures. - Rock Vincent Guitard
- End the trip on a high note with an elegant farewell dinner at a Michelin-rated restaurant and relish in a curated menu of exquisite Thai cuisine. - Vicky Ng
- Visit Wat Phra Thad Doi Suthep, one of Chiang Mai's sacred temples. - JJ Harrison
- Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub - Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub
- Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub - Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub
- In your free time, go explore Nimman together and appreciate its arts scene. - One Nimman
- Dive into the world of traditional Thai textile art with a hands-on workshop. - Maher Meskko
- Discover the beauty of Thai silk at a local store that showcases the silk-making process, from nurturing silkworms to dyeing and weaving intricate patterns. - JJ Harrison
- Take a stroll around Chiang Mai and you'll find that spiritual and cultural heritage permeates its streets. - Han Thomas
- Add-on: Airport transfer - Dan Gold