Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings

Chiang Mai , Thailand

Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings

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About this experience

Calling all foodies. Want to discover what real Northern Thai cuisine is all about? Forget the tourist markets and hop onboard our daily small-group adventure limited to just 8 exclusive guests. Over 4 hours you'll ride around Chiang Mai in a classic rod daeng truck in search of the best hidden eats in the city from small hole-in-the-wall joints to bustling indoor food markets. While sampling over 15 different tastes of Northern Thai food, your guide will help you understand the region's flavors and the history which has impacted on its dishes. Get stuck into the best sai oua sausage in town, slurp on delicious 'nam ngiaw' noodles and gobble up refreshing tea and tamarind leaf salads not found anywhere else in Chiang Mai.

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Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings

What's included

4 hours of feasting around the streets and fresh markets of Chiang Mai

Bottled water and local soft drinks included

15+ food tastings included, more than any other Chiang Mai food tour

Awarded Tripadvisor's Badge of Excellence with over 2000 happy guests

Maximum of 8 exclusive guests on each tour

Detailed itinerary

Our feasting tour of 15+ tastings invites guests on a culinary experience around the Chiang Mai led by our team of professional foodie guides. Our award-winning tour has hosted over 2,000 foodie travellers in groups no bigger than 8 exclusive guests. Before we get started, our tour reflects the local cuisine and the limitations of street food vendors means we unfortunately cannot cater for every dietary restriction. Here's an honest appraisal for the tour so no-one is disappointed ✘ Unsuitable for vegetarians, pescatarians and no-pork diets ✘ Unsuitable for shellfish, peanut and severe allergies. ✘ Unsuitable for severe gluten intolerances, there are traces of gluten in soy sauce. ✔ Suitable for lactose intolerances. ✔ Suitable for no beef diets. If you are feeling adventurous for a foodie journey, read on!

Don’t follow the herd. Forget green curry and pad Thai, that's central Thai fare. Hop on board our private songthaew truck for four hours of feasting. Hit up the street eats and fresh markets across the city gorging on 15+ Northern Thai tastings. Many are unaware that this used to be the Lanna Kingdom well before it was part of Thailand and its food influences come from neighbouring Myanmar, China and beyond. We don't want to spoil the surprise, but some drool-worthy highlights include the zingy nam ngiaw noodles, the meaty larb salads, the sizzling lemongrass sai oua sausages and piquant nam prik relishes among many more lip-smackingly good tastings at places you'd struggle to find alone.

The tour concludes at the local Wararot Market along the Ping River. Enjoy local hospitality and meet new friends along the way. End the tour armed with the knowledge you'll need to continue eating street food across Thailand.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks excluded

Pick up and drop off from your hotel excluded

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

106 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

346 reviews

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329

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour isn't suitable for vegetarians, pescatarians or no pork diets due to street vendors' limited menus. Other dietary restrictions may require some dishes to be missed

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately and bring an umbrella in rainy season

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Infant meals not included

The tour isn't suitable for shellfish, peanut or severe allergies due to the nature of street food. Other allergies may require some dishes to be missed

Meeting point

The meeting point is at the Wat Lok Moli temple, by the north gate of the city. It's easy to reach from most hotels. When you enter the temple grounds, look to the left and your guide will meet you in front of the gold 4-headed statue, under the big tree.

Important notes

• The tour is ✘ Unsuitable for vegetarians, pescatarians and no-pork diets ✘ Unsuitable for shellfish, peanut and severe allergies. ✘ Unsuitable for severe gluten intolerances, there are traces of gluten in soy sauce. ✔ Suitable for lactose intolerances. ✔ Suitable for no beef diets. If you haven't already told us about any dietary restrictions or allergies, please contact us as soon as possible
• Our tours operate come rain or shine, so carry an umbrella if rain looks likely
• Wearing comfortable shoes is recommended
• Please try to arrive at the meeting point 10-15 minutes before the tour departs

About Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a historic and cultural hub in Northern Thailand, known for its ancient temples, vibrant night markets, and lush mountain surroundings. It offers a blend of traditional Lanna culture and modern amenities, making it a favorite destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

A stunning temple perched on a mountain with panoramic views of Chiang Mai. It's one of the most sacred temples in Thailand and a must-visit for its beauty and cultural significance.

Religious 2-3 hours 30 THB (1 USD) for foreigners

Old City

The historic heart of Chiang Mai, surrounded by ancient walls and moats. It's filled with temples, markets, and traditional Lanna-style buildings.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, individual temples may charge a small fee

Doi Inthanon National Park

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand,' this national park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Nature Full day 300 THB (9 USD) for foreigners, additional fees for specific attractions

Elephant Nature Park

A renowned elephant sanctuary offering ethical elephant encounters and rescue operations. Visitors can learn about elephant conservation and interact with these gentle giants.

Adventure Full day 2,500-5,000 THB (75-150 USD) depending on the program

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

A vibrant night market offering a wide variety of souvenirs, clothing, and street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and pick up unique gifts.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary for items and food

Must-Try Local Dishes

Khao Soi

A signature Northern Thai dish featuring egg noodles in a creamy curry broth, topped with crispy noodles and pickled mustard greens.

Dinner Contains meat (chicken or beef), gluten (noodles)

Sai Oua

A Northern Thai sausage made with minced pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime, and other aromatic spices.

Snack Contains pork, gluten (optional)

Som Tam

A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.

Snack Can be made vegetarian or with fish sauce

Popular Activities

Hiking in Doi Inthanon National Park Elephant trekking (at ethical sanctuaries) Zip-lining in the jungle Visiting spas and wellness centers Exploring temples and cultural sites Enjoying coffee at local cafes Attending traditional Thai dance performances Visiting local markets and shopping for handicrafts

Best Time to Visit

November to February (cool season)

This is the most popular time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-30°C (59-86°F) 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English (widely spoken in tourist areas)
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, Moderately spoken in other areas

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chiang Mai is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Chiang Mai International Airport • 3 km (2 miles) from city center

By train

Chiang Mai Railway Station

By bus

Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station, Chiang Mai Old Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Songthaews are converted pickup trucks with benches in the back. They follow specific routes and are a cheap and convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old City Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) Santitham

Day trips

Pai

135 km (84 miles) • Full day to overnight

A charming mountain town known for its laid-back atmosphere, hot springs, and scenic landscapes. Pai offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for hiking, visiting waterfalls, and exploring local markets.

Mae Kampong Village

35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

A picturesque hill tribe village known for its traditional way of life, lush surroundings, and warm hospitality. Mae Kampong offers a glimpse into the local culture and a chance to experience the simplicity of rural life.

Doi Inthanon National Park

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand,' this national park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Songkran Festival • April 13-15 (Thai New Year) Loy Krathong Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (November) Yi Peng Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (November, same as Loy Krathong)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to gain insights into the city's history and culture
Visit temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Explore the city's night markets and street food scene for an authentic and memorable experience
Try a traditional Thai massage or spa treatment for relaxation and rejuvenation