Get lost (or found!) in the vibrancy of Chiang Mai, a city famed for temples and traditions that only recently found itself becoming a part of the modern world. Once a part of the expansive, thousands-of-years-old Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai has over 300 wats (or temples) that would be impossible to explore in one day. Why not prioritize the four most historically significant temples that depict Thai, Burmese and Mon cultures through their distinct architectural Lanna styles? With a local guide who not only knows his way around but has a wealth of insider&rsquo;s tips to impart as well, take in the majestic sites of this ancient city for a memorable trip.

Tour the Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in the city, which was built by the first Lanna king, Mangrai. The Wat Chiang Man&rsquo;s complex houses two iconic Buddha statues known as the &ldquo;Crystal Buddha&rdquo; and the Phra Sila, which is a standing Buddha taming an elephant. Then, discover Northern Thai architecture through the Wat Phra Singh, another Buddhist temple with lions (singhs) at its main entrance, guarding the revered Phra Buddha Sihing statue within its walls. Afterwards, make your way to Wat Chedi Luang, once the tallest structure in the city, until its chedi was damaged by an earthquake. Lastly, enter the 14th-century Wat Suan Dok, also known as the flower garden temple, which photographs beautifully, especially during the sunset.

End the day traversing Chiang Mai&rsquo;s dynamic night market scene. Choose to go north to the Covered Market or south to the Anusarn Open Air market for your fill of Thai food, clothes and more; prices depend on your bargaining power!

For more Chiang Mai ideas, check out this article on <a href="http://www.lifestyleasia.com/502486/how-to-spend-a-whirlwind-weekend-in-chiang-mai/">How to spend a whirlwind weekend in Chiang Mai</a> from Lifestyle Asia featuring Trip Guru!

Thailand

Full day Chiang Mai City and Temples Tour

If you think that walking around Chiang Mai takes the wind out of you, why not enjoy the sites through this hassle-free option?