November 2021

It is hard to imagine that this sleepy laid-back town was once the capital city of the Lan Na Kingdom. Our helpful guide to Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days takes you on a journey across the old city, playing with rehabilitated elephants, and visiting the city’s famous temple, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep.

Chiang Mai in Thai means “New City” which was founded in 1296 and succeeded its former capital of Chiang Rai. The highlights of our itinerary are:

• Wat Chedi Luang
• Wat Chiang Man
• Elephant Nature Park
• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
• Bhubing Palace

In this post, we take you through whether Chiang Mai is walkable, is expensive to visit, the best time to visit, and is Chiang Mai worth visiting. You have landed on the right page if you are looking for answers to these questions on Chiang Mai.

1. Where is Chiang Mai?
2. Are 4 days in Chiang Mai enough?
3. Is Chiang Mai walkable?
4. How expensive is Chiang Mai?
5. What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
6. What part of Chiang Mai should I stay in?
7. Do they speak English in Chiang Mai?
8. Is Chiang Mai worth visiting?

Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA COST to you. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.

Where is Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand and is the capital city of Chiang Mai Province. A unique feature of Chiang Mai is that it sits among misty mountains that are home to the hill tribes.

There are 117 Buddhist temples with several active temples, some in ruins while others are covered in vegetation. The major festivals that are celebrated here are the Loy Krathong, Songkran, Chiang Mai Flower Festival, and Intakhin (City Pillar) Festival.

Loy Krathong

This festival is celebrated throughout Thailand and is known by several names across the world. In Myanmar, it is Tazaungdaing and in Sri Lanka, it is II Full Moon Poya, and in Cambodia, it is Bon Om Touk.  

The term “Loy” in Thai means “to float” while a “Krathong” is a traditional offering of food and desserts that is made with leaves and flowers. This festival traces its origins to India where Thais use a Krathong to send thanks to the Goddess of Water, the Goddess Ganga in Hinduism.

In Chiang Mai, this festival coincides with Yi Peng which means “full moon day on the second month” of the Lanna calendar. Sky lanterns are lit to prevent troubles and mishaps and are used to decorate homes. Read A Guide To Chiang Mai’s Yee Peng Lantern Festival to know more.

History

According to an ancient chronicle, it was the alliance of three kings, Phaya Meng Rai of Chiang Mai, Khun Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai, and Phaya Ngam Meuang of Phayao who forged the Kingdom of Lanna in 1296 with Chiang Mai as its capital city.

The statue marking this event is the Three Kings Statue at the Old City where people leave bouquets, incense, and candles in honor of the men who brought this city to life. The ancient city is Wiang Kum Kam which was built by King Mengrai. 

When the Lanna Kingdom declined, Chiang Mai became part of the Thonburi Kingdom and Chiang Mai was soon abandoned. Due to its status as being the northern capital city of Thailand, Chiang Mai soo grew to become a cultural, economical, and trading hub.

Visa Requirements

Thailand requires visitors to obtain a visa before arrival from the Thai Diplomatic Missions in their country. Holders of passports from 64 nations can enter Thailand visa-free. The map below shows the visa requirements for each country.

To simplify visa procedures, Thailand introduced the Electronic Visa Application that can be completed in six steps. You would need to create an account to start the application procedure. The e-visa official website has more information.

Are 4 days in Chiang Mai enough?

To explore Chiang Mai alone, four days is sufficient. In our Chiang Mai Itinerary 4 days, we explore the Old City temples, the ethical Elephant Nature Park, the city’s famous temple, and end our itinerary with a visit to Bhubing Palace and some shopping.

Day 1: Old City Temples

The first day of our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days begins with a visit to the three main temples that are historically significant in Chiang Mai. Other than these temples, the old walls of this fortified city are intact.

The Tha Pae Gate marks the eastern side of the Old City is now a geographical boundary between the Old City and New City. On Sundays, there is the Sunday Walking Market between Tha Pae Gate to Wat Phra Singh filled with homemade local food, hill-tribe crafts, and is a perfect place to pick up souvenirs.

Another monument is the Three Kings Statue marks the event where three rulers founded and built Chiang Mai. This statue is in front of the Chiang Mai Art & Cultural Center. 

The ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam is a historic settlement built by King Mengrai along the Ping River. The city was abandoned more than 700 years ago due to frequent floods. 

The main temple here is Wat Chedi Liam or “Temple of the Square Pagodas” which remains a working temple with resident monks.

Wat Chedi Luang

The first in our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days is Wat Chedi Luang. The literal translation of Wat Chedi Luang is the temple of the royal stupa. There were originally three temples within the temple complex. The other two temples were Wat Sukmin and Wat Ho Tham.

As you walk into the temple, look out for a dipterocarp tree that stands at the left from the entrance. Local legend has it that if this tree falls, a catastrophe would befall the city. A shrine next to the tree holds the Sao Intakhin which is the “spirit of the city”.

Around the grounds, you would also find Phra Chao Attarot where you would a beautiful standing Buddha. Another smaller temple is the Wat Phan Tao which is a beautifully carved teak temple.

The main structure here is the ruined brick structure of Wat Chedi Luang that rises about 60 meters in height. All four sides are flanked by staircases that are guarded by Nagas. At the niches, there are stone Buddha images. On the eastern side niche, you can find the replica of the Emerald Buddha that was kept here.

When was Wat Chedi Luang built?

King Saen Muang Ma began construction of the temple in 1391 as a temple to hold the ashes of his father, King Kun Na. The temple was completed in 1475 and was home to the Emerald Buddha. In 1545, an earthquake damaged the temple, and the Emerald Buddha was moved to Luang Prabang.

What does Chedi mean?

In Thailand, Chedi means Buddhist stupa. Chedi’s are different from stupas in that they have a bell-shaped base topped with a spire.

How much is the entrance fee to enter Wat Chedi Luang?

While entry to Wat Chedi Luang used to be free for everyone, the entrance fee is now ฿40 ($1.22) for adults and ฿20 ($0.61¢) for children. This rate only applies to foreigners. The temple is open daily from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Wat Phra Singh

The second in our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days is Wat Phra Singh. This temple is an easy 10-minute walk from Wat Chedi Luang. The full name of the temple is Wat Phra Buddha Sihing and according to legends, the statue was based on the lions of Shakya.

The construction of this temple began in 1345 when the fifth King of the Mengrai Dynasty built this chedi to store the ashes of his father. Three funerary urns were found during the restoration works in 1925 inside a small chedi.

The main attraction of this temple complex is Wihan Lai Kham is an example of Lanna architecture. The murals on this temple are remarkable and depict the lives of the locals and popular folklore tales.

Another structure worth visiting is the Ho Trai which is the temple library that is set on a stone base with guards flanking the stairs and lions emerging from the mouth of the Makara, a mythical water creature.

How much is the entrance fee to Wat Phra Singh?

The entrance fee is ฿40 ($1.22) for foreign adults. The opening hours are from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm.

Wat Chiang Man

The third in our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days Wat Chiang Man. This temple is a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from Wat Phra Singh. This temple is the oldest in Chiang Mai and was built by King Mengrai in 1297 as the first temple of the fortified city of Chiang Mai.

There are several sights within this temple complex that are worth exploring. The first is Wat Chedi Chang Lom which is known as the “Elephant Chedi”. This is the oldest structure where a square base supports 15 brick and stucco elephants that seem to carry the upper levels on its back.

The Main Wihan has a statue of Buddha with an engraving of the year 1465, making it the oldest statue of Buddha from the Lanna Kingdom. However, the two smaller wihans are of equal importance.

The smaller wihans are home to two important statues of Buddha that are believed to have protective powers over the city of Chiang Mai. The statues are Phra Sae Tang Khamani or the ‘Crystal Buddha’ and Phra Sila which is a stone bas-relief of Buddha taming the elephant Nalagiri.

Is there an entrance fee to enter Wat Chiang Man?

The entry to Wat Chiang Man is FREE and its opening hours are from 6.00 am to 5.00 pm. 

Day 2: Elephant Nature Park

The second day of our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days begins with a visit to the Elephant Nature Park. This sanctuary and rescue center for elephants was founded by Lek Chailert who began working on elephant conservation since 1996.

The park is about 37 miles from Chiang Mai and has a duty of care to protect those under their umbrella. The duty of care is not only towards its elephants, it is also towards its staff and guests. The other rescued animals in their care are buffaloes, dogs, and cats. 

The fourth in our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days is at Elephant Nature Park. This elephant sanctuary is one of the most ethical and best-known in Thailand. The unique feature of this park is that it is a chain-free sanctuary for elephants.

Each of the elephants here come from abused backgrounds and were formerly circus performers, used for trekking and logging activities, and street performers. By the time they arrive here, these elephants have declining physical and mental health, are in broken spirit, and have other age-old complications.

The sanctuary provides these elephants with a chance to relax and rehabilitate. The elephants here have freedom of movement. To enrich the lives of these majestic creatures, the park has stopped the bathing of elephants.

The park has a “Hands Off” and “Saddle Off” policy in place to minimize human interaction with the elephants. You can touch the elephants during feeding times. 

How many elephants are at Elephant Nature Park?

As of 2016, Elephant Nature Park had rescued about 200 elephants. According to the International Union of Conservation of Nature’s Red List, the Asian elephant is an Endangered Species with about 3,341 left in Thailand and 51,680 in the wild. 

How much is the entrance fee to Elephant Nature Park?

There are several packages to choose from at Elephant Nature Park. The Elephant SkyWalk package is ฿3,500 ($106) for adults while the Short Park Visit is ฿2,500 ($76.31) for adults. 

For the adventurous, you can experience an Overnight 2 Days 1 Night Visit for ฿5,800 ($177) for adults. Check out Elephant Nature Park’s Visit and Volunteer page to know more. Children get a 50% discount across all rates. Do note that there are some visits where children are not allowed.

Day 3: The City’s Famous Temple

The third day of our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days begins with a visit to Chiang Mai’s famous temple, the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The term Doi Suthep refers to the name of the mountain that the temple sits on.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

The fifth in our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. This temple has beautiful views of Chiang Mai. As this is an active temple, visitors are expected to be decently dressed. Footwear would have to be removed before entering the temple.

Legends of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

There are several legends associated with this temple. The first is that a 14th-century monk from the Sukhothai Kingdom had a vision. In his vision, he saw a fire and saw a bone glowing and believed it to have magical powers. 

When the monk took the bone to the King of Sukhothai, the bone did not show any abnormality and the king told the monk to keep it.

However, King Nu Naone of Lan Na Kingdom heard about this relic and invited the monk to his kingdom. When he arrived, the relic had broken into two pieces. One part of the relic was placed at Wat Suan Dok.

The other piece was placed at the back of a white elephant which was released into the jungle. The elephant walked up Doi Suthep, trumpeted three times, and dropped dead. King Nu Naone took this as a good omen and began building the current temple in 1383.

How long does it take to visit Doi Suthep?

It would be best to allocate at least 5-6 hours to visit the temple. This is because you may take at least an hour to get to the base of the temple from Chiang Mai.

How do I get to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep?

The temple is within the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. There are three ways to get to Wat Phra Doi Suthep. These are:

Road

If you are driving, take Route 1004 or Huay Kaew Road towards Chiang Mai Zoo and Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. The route has many curves and will take you to the base of the temple. The temple is approximately 9 miles from Chiang Mai city. 

Songtaews

Another option to get to the temple is via the red songtaews. Songtaews are pickup trucks that have been converted to passenger vehicles and usually consist of two rows or levels. The drivers usually wait until the truck is full before leaving for its destination.

Songtaews leave from Huay Kaew Road and should cost about ฿300 ($9.15) per person one way or ฿500 ($15.25) if you want the driver to wait for you and bring you back to the city. 

Hiking

The last option is for the adventurous as you can hike up to the temple. To get to the trailhead, you need to get to Suthep Road. From there, past Chiang Mai University until you see some green areas. There is a signboard that says “Nature Hike”.

At the sign, turn right onto a narrow road, walk straight for about 100 meters and then follow the left turn curve of the road that would lead you to the trailhead. This hike is known as the Doi Suthep Monk Trail and is a 6.3 kilometer moderate and heavily trafficked hike.

How much does it cost to visit Doi Suthep?

There is no entrance fee to visit the Doi Suthep temple or any other temple within the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. 

Day 4: Bhubing Palace & Shopping

The fourth day of our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days begins with a visit to Bhubing Palace and we end the day with shopping at some major bazaars, night markets, and shopping complexes across the city.

Bhubing Palace

The sixth on our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days is Bhubing Palace. The Bhubing Rajanives Palace was built in 1961 as a royal winter palace and a royal guesthouse for prominent state visitors from abroad.

The palace was built based on ruean mu (“group of houses”) which is a central Thai architectural style where groups of houses are built on stilts. The palace took 5 months to build and its first foreign dignitaries were King Fredrick IX and Queen Ingrid of Denmark in 1962.

How much is the entrance fee to Bhubing Palace?

The admission fee for foreigners is ฿50 ($1.50) and is open daily from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm. The palace is closed in the first quarter from January to March when it is used as a royal residence. 

Shopping

The seventh and last in our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days is shopping in and around Chiang Mai. While Chiang Mai is known as the capital for arts and crafts in Thailand, it is its walking streets that draw the crowd.

The Saturday Walking Street is along Th Wualai and begins at 4 pm when the road closes and becomes a pedestrian street. If you are looking for hill-tribe trinkets, paper lanterns, umbrellas, and silver jewelry, then this is the place to be.

I’ve missed Saturday Walking Street, what else can do I do?

Fret not! There is the Sunday Walking Street that opens from 4 pm onwards. It starts at Tha Pae Gate and covers the full length of Th Ratchadamnoen. If you arrive early, you may see some vendors perform prayers after the first sale of the night. 

This is with the hope that more sales would follow through. Sunday Walking Street is known for its silk, paper lanterns, ceramic, and wooden items.

What should I buy in Chiang Mai?

Make sure to bring an empty travel duffel bag as you would need it. Some of the things you can buy are:

1. Decorative Thai silk placemats. This traditional green-gold woven silk fabric is suitable for dining tables, coffee tables, and entryway tables and makes a perfect housewarming gift. It is foldable, washable, and simply adds elegance to your table.
2. Thai herbal rice soap. This 3-piece soap set comes with collagen that helps moisturize your skin. Its scent isn’t overpowering and the soap lathers quickly also help lighten dark spots over time.
3. Decorative Thai wood panel sculpture. Chiang Mai is famous for its wood carvings, all beautifully handmade. These carvings are made of Teakwood and are a beautiful addition to any part of your home.

Is Chiang Mai walkable?

Our Chiang Mai itinerary 4 days considers the fact that the Old City of Chiang Mai is walkable. To begin our walking tour, we start at the Three Kings Monument on Ratvithi Road. 

From there, you can walk across to the Lanna Folklife Museum which is towards the left, and the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center which is located on its right. After that, take a 4-minute walk to Wat Inthakin Sadue Muang.

The Wat Inthakhin Sadue Muang is described as “the temple of the city navel” as it lies at the heart of the Old City. After Wat Inthakin, take a 10-minute walk to Wat Chiang Man. 

From Wat Chiang Man, take an 11-minute walk to Wat Dab Pai and pray for your good health. Local legend mention that a very sick monk came to this temple and prayed for recovery. He recovered immediately and constructed the present temple as gratitude.

After that, take a 6-minute walk to Wat Phra Singh, the oldest royal temple in Chiang Mai. Then, make your way to Wat Tung Yu which is an easy 2-minute walk. Wat Tung Yu is more than 500 years old and is a temple named after the ceremonial umbrella for royalty with the rank of a prince.

After that, take a 7-minute walk to Wat Chedi Luang with its spectacular chedi was once the highest in the region for almost 500 years. Finally, end your walking tour at Tha Phae Gate, the once city wall that protected this ancient city.

For your convenience, our free walking tour is shown on the map below.

How expensive is Chiang Mai?

According to Budget Your Trip, the average daily cost per person per day is ฿1,307 ($40) which is ฿9,146 ($279) per week, and ฿18,292 ($558) for two weeks. A typical double-occupancy room would cost ฿1,515 ($46). 

The average cost of food is ฿299 ($9.12) with breakfast being the cheapest meal. The prices at dine-in restaurants cost more than street food and fast food prices. Transportation per person is approximately ฿106 ($3.23) on local transportation.

Although tipping is not customary or mandatory in Thailand, an average visitor spends about ฿58 ($1.77) on tips and handouts. The usual tipping amount is 5% of the total bill. 

Whether Chiang Mai is expensive or not would depend entirely on you. You can visit Chiang Mai on a budget by choosing cheaper hotels and eating at local restaurants, with an occasional meal at a fine-dining restaurant. 

What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

There are three main seasons in Chiang Mai. These are the rainy season, the hot and humid season, and the cool and dry season.

The rainy season is from June to October with rains peaking during August and September. During this season, waterfalls and river-based activities could be closed. The two events in this season are the Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival and the Khao Phansa, a Buddhist equivalent to Lent.

The cool and dry season begins from November till February which also coincides with the peak tourist season. The second half of November is the absolute peak as Loy Krathong takes place. You can expect increased prices and traffic at this time.

Finally, the hot and humid season begins from March till May which coincides with the “burning season” where thick haze covers the city. The two festivals to look out for are Songkran and the Inthakhin Festival where the locals pay respects to the City Pillar. 

What is the hottest month in Chiang Mai?

The hottest month in Chiang Mai is in April where the average maximum temperature is 36°C (96°F). During this month, the roads become dusty and the air is dry as it hasn’t rained in a few months.

What is the coldest month in Chiang Mai?

The coldest month in Chiang Mai is in January which has an average maximum temperature of 28°C (82°F). During this month, you can walk around in shorts. However, bring a sweater or jacket as it temperatures drop in the evening.

What part of Chiang Mai should I stay in?

It is always a difficult task to narrow down the best places to stay as we always strive for that one “perfect” hotel or area. In this section, we give you the best options and the best hotels to stay when in Chiang Mai.

Old City

The Old City is an attraction by itself in Chiang Mai. It is a square area within semi-ruined ancient moat walls that is now home to hip cafes, restaurants, hotels, and bars. Our recommended hotels are Tamarind Village, Pingviman Hotel, Rachamankha Hotel, and Thai Akara.

Riverside

The Riverside refers to the Mae Ping River which is the lifeline of Chiang Mai. The riverside features green spaces, has an authentic local feel to it when compared to Bangkok’s Chao Phraya, and lack of urbanization gives a relaxed vibe.

Our recommended hotels are Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, RatiLanna Riverside, Aruntara Riverside Boutique Hotel, and Maraya Hotel and Resort.

Night Bazaar

This area is a shopper’s paradise. The Night Bazaar is a 1-kilometer long road that is famous for its stalls and amazing bargains. It is open throughout the year, from dawn till dusk. This area has a wide range of western fast food joints such as McDonald’s, Burger King, and Starbucks.

Our recommended hotels are Le Meridien Hotel, Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel, Shangri-La Hotel, and De Chai Colonial Hotel & Spa.

Do they speak English in Chiang Mai?

Yes, you would find English-speaking vendors and guides at tourist spots around the city. In other areas, English language proficiency is low among the locals. Hence, a basic knowledge of Thai would be sufficient to make your way around.

What language is spoken in Chiang Mai?

The language spoken in Chiang Mai is Kham Mueang or Lanna. This language dates back to the Lanna Kingdom and is now on the verge of extinction. An example of Lanna is that the “ch” sound becomes “j” and an example is “Chiang Mai” is pronounced as “Jiang Mai”.

A distinct feature is that women add “jao” while men add “krub” at the end of a sentence. Some Lanna words such as hello are sawadeejao while for men, it is sawadeekrub. Thank you is khob kun jao for ladies and men is khob khun krub. 

Is Chiang Mai worth visiting?

Yes, Chiang Mai is worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. Here are some reasons why.

1. Ancient Lanna Culture. The remnants of temples of the ancient Lanna Kingdom that ruled Chiang Mai are sprinkled all over the city. These temples are unique in that they are designed based on Burmese style architecture.
2. Vegan and vegetarians delight. There are plenty of vegan and vegetarian restaurants that are affordable and have an incredible selection with soy-based and faux-meat dishes.
3. Greenery. With a mountainous terrain as a backdrop, the city does not have the same hectic city vibes as Bangkok.
4. Hipster vibes. With laid-back vibes, chilling out in Chiang Mai is easier with hip cafes, and plenty of hill-tribe shopping.
5. Night Safari. The Chiang Mai Night Safari is similar to Singapore’s in that there are three sections: the Savanna Safari, Predator Prowl, and the Jaguar Trail. Don’t miss this unique experience!

Chiang Mai is a little off the beaten path that is worth exploring, even for a few days. Relative to Bangkok, Chiang Mai is much cheaper and affordable and gives visitors a unique perspective of ancient ruins among modern amenities.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s go!

RELATED:

A Beautiful Bali Itinerary 5 Days 4 Nights

The Land of Gods, this is Bali. With beautiful beaches, lush terraced rice fields, and a culture that dates back to the 1st century. This Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights takes you on a journey across temples, lakes, and some offbeat destinations. 

The highlights of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights are:

• Uluwatu Temple
• Tirtha Empul
• Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
• Pura Danau Tamblingan
• Pura Besakih
• Tanah Lot

If you are looking for answers to these questions, you have landed on the right page.

1. Where is Bali?
2. Are 5 days in Bali enough?
3. Where should I stay in Bali?
4. What is the main language of Bali?
5. Is Bali worth visiting?

Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA COST to you. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.

Where is Bali?

Bali is a province in Indonesia that is located on the East of Java, West of Lombok, and is the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Bali is also Indonesia’s only Hindu-majority province with at least 87% of the population practicing Balinese Hinduism.

Bali is within the Coral Triangle which is a triangular area around Malaysia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, the Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste. This area is home to 500 species of reef-building corals and sits between the Indian and the Pacific Oceans.

History

Bali and Java share a history that dates back to the Paleolithic era. The discovery of the Java Man is one of the earliest specimens of Homo Erectus, the ancestor of modern man. However, ancient written historical records mention the reign of Sri Kesari, a Balinese King.

The ancient text was written in the Indian Sanskrit language and the Old Balinese language and dates back to 914 CE. The records mention that Bali was an independent nation, with a distinct dialect where Buddhism is practiced simultaneously with Shaivism. 

Majapahit Empire

A Balinese colony was founded by the Majapahit Empire during its Golden Age. During the Majapahit rule, architecture, dance, and theatre experienced a strong influx of Javanese culture. 

The empire fell when Islam arose in the Indonesian archipelago. There was resistance towards Islam in Bali when Dang Hyang Nirartha led a Hindu reformation movement. He introduced the Padmasana shrine to honor the Supreme God “Acintya”. One of the temples that were established by Nirartha is the Uluwatu Cliff Temple.

European Contact

The first European contact in Bali was made in 1512 during a Portuguese expedition led by Antonia Abreu. It was Cornelis de Houtman, a Dutch who arrived in 1597. 

Modern Bali

The Balinese are known to be resilient as the province has survived two terrorist bombings, one in 2002 and the other in 2005. According to Statista, Bali recorded its highest tourist arrivals of 6.28 million people in 2019. 

BBC Travel named the island as “one of the world’s best” together with Santorini in Greece, and Boracay in the Philippines. According to TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best 2021, Bali is described as a living postcard, a paradise that seems like a fantasy.

Visa Requirements

The official website to apply for a visa to Indonesia is the website of the Director-General of Immigration that is under the purview of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights. The specific visa policy of Indonesia is shown in the image below.

Numberguy6, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikipedia Commons

Based on the above, 169 nations can enter Indonesia, visa-free. These nations are shown as green color. The nations include the United States, India, and the United Arab Emirates. Citizens that enter Bali via the visa-free option can not extend their visa further.

Currently, Indonesia requires visitors to have Health Declaration before entering the country. Get your Health Card Declaration Online through iVisa in three simple steps. 

What documents do you need to travel to Bali?

To travel to Bali, your passport must have two blank pages with at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival. The currency restrictions for both entry and exit are at Rp 100,000,000.00 ($7,092). 

You would need to show a return ticket or connecting ticket to another country and two colored photographs. 

Are 5 days in Bali enough?

A Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights gives a glimpse of the island, its culture, history, and key highlights that would complete your short and memorable trip to the island. 

Day 1: Arrival and Sunset at Uluwatu Temple

We start Day 1 by arriving at the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. This airport was named after the Balinese freedom fighter who fought to death against the Dutch during the Indonesian Revolution in 1946.

As your plane makes a slow descent, you will see the Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue. This statue stands at 120 meters and is the second tallest statue in the world after the Spring Temple Buddha statue in Hainan, China.

As you make your way towards the immigration, customs, and baggage areas, you will notice the Balinese architectural theme throughout the airport. The arrival hall is located at Level 1 of the International Terminal.

On your way out, look out for the Satria Gatotkaca or the statue of the Flying Knight. Gatotkaca is a character from the Mahabharat. Gatotkaca in Sanskrit means “bald head”. The statue depicts the battle between Gatotkaca and Prince Karna. The statue brings security and protection to all flights and those visiting Bali. 

Uluwatu Temple

The first of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is Uluwatu Temple or Pura Luhur Uluwatu. This temple is one of the six Sad Kahyangan Jagad or “six sanctuaries of the world” which are the holiest temples in Bali.

Other than these, Bali has several “sea temples” which are believed to be visible from the next temple. These sea temples form a “chain of spiritual protection” around the island.

How much does the Uluwatu Temple cost?

The entrance fee is divided into two categories, which are for domestic tourists and foreign tourists. Adult domestic tourists pay Rp 20,000 ($1.50) while children pay Rp 10,000 ($0.70¢). Foreign adults pay Rp 30,000 ($2.12) while children pay Rp 20,000 ($1.50). 

What should I wear to Uluwatu Temple?

As Uluwatu Temple is one of the most sacred temples in Bali, it is best to avoid tank tops, sleeveless tops, skirts, and shorts. A sarong and shawl (returnable) are provided to those that do not meet these requirements. 

What is the best time to visit Uluwatu Temple?

Although the temple is open from 9.00 am to 7.00 pm, the best time to visit this temple is between 4.30 pm to 7.00 pm. You can view one of Bali’s most stunning sunsets here. 

How long is the Kecak dance at Uluwatu?

The Kecak dance performance lasts one hour, from 6.00 pm to 7.00 pm. You would have to arrive early to book your tickets at the ticket counter. Tickets are priced at Rp 100,000 ($7.10) per person. 

What is the Kecak Dance?

The term “Kecak” is from the “cak, cak” chants that are sung by the dancers throughout the performance. This dance is an adaptation from the Ramayana, a Hindu epic where a princess is kidnapped by a demon king and is rescued by a monkey god. This dance is a must-see when in Bali.

Day 2: Ubud

Campuhan Ridge Walk

The second of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is a hike on Campuhan Ridge Walk. The best time to walk is before sunrise. This can be between 6.00 am to 8.00 am. This is because the ridge walk is exposed to the elements.

How long does the Campuhan Ridge Walk take?

The path is 1.2 miles long and passes through paddy fields, two jungle valleys, and ends at the village of Bangkiag Sidem. You can end your walk with a meal at Karsa Cafe. The walk can take between 1 to 2 hours, depending upon your fitness level.

Is the Campuhan Ridge Walk free?

Yes, Campuhan Ridge Walk is FREE and is a must-do when in Ubud. It is best to carry a water bottle with you as there are no stalls or restaurants along the path. You would also need a compact umbrella to protect you from the sun by the time you end the walk.

Ubud Monkey Forest

The third of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is the Ubud Monkey Forest or Mandala Suci Wenara Wana as it is locally known. This forest is a 7-minute drive or a 30-minute walk from Campuhan Ridge Walk.

Ubud Monkey Forest is within Padangtegal village and owns the forest. The villagers view the forest as a place of spirituality, education, and a conservation center. The area is sacred as three temples were built during the 14th century.

The temples were built based on the traditional Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Kirana or “three causes of well-being”. The main temple here is Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal while the other two are Pura Beji and Pura Prajapati. These temples are off-limits to tourists.

Is Ubud Monkey Forest free?

No, Ubud Monkey Forest is not free. There is an entrance fee of Rp 80,000 ($5.70) for adults and Rp 60,000 ($4.30) for children.

How long does it take to visit Monkey Forest Ubud?

The length of time here depends on you. It can 15 minutes or 2 hours. Read A History of Ubud Monkey Forest in 60 Seconds and Sacred Monkey Forest to know more.

NOTE: Visitors are NOT ALLOWED to feed to monkeys. The staff of the forest feeds the monkeys three times a day. 

Pura Gunung Kawi

The fourth of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is Pura Gunung Kawi. This funerary complex is a 30-minute drive from the Ubud Monkey Forest. This is one of the oldest sites in Bali and dates back to the 11th century.

There are 10 candi’s that spread across the Pekerisan River. To get to the temple, you would need to walk down a pathway of about 100 steps that are lined with souvenir shops. There are 4 candi’s on the eastern side of the river, 5 on the western side, and 1 hidden among the valley on the south side.

Legend has it that these candi’s are dedicated to King Anak Wungsu of the Udayana Dynasty for his wife, concubines, and family.

Tirtha Empul

The fifth of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights and the last on our day is a visit to Tirta Empul. This Balinese water temple is located in Tampaksiring is a 30-minute drive from Pura Gunung Kawi.

This temple is famous for its holy spring water that the Balinese use for ritual purification. “Tirta Empul” in Balinese means “holy springs”. 

When was Tirta Empul built?

This temple was founded in 962 AD with the name being derived from the groundwater source. The holy springs are the source of the Pekerisan River that passes through Pura Gunung Kawi.

How much is the entrance fee to Tirta Empul?

The entrance fee is Rp 50,000 ($3.55) for an adult. For those who want to bathe in the pools, you can keep your belongings at the locker. The locker fees are Rp 15,000 ($1.10) while parking for cars is Rp 5,000 ($0.35¢). 

What should I wear to the Tirtha Empul temple?

As this is a temple complex, it is appropriate to dress decently. Visitors are required to rent a sarong, regardless of whether you are bathing or not. If you are bathing and only have one set of clothes, you can rent a green bathing dress and red scarf for Rp 10,000 ($0.71¢).

Day 3: Lakes of Bali

On Day 3 of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights, we explore the three lakes of Bali. Our base would be from Kuta and Ubud as these are the two popular areas to stay when in Bali.

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan

The sixth of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. This temple is a 2-hour drive from Kuta and a 1-hour drive from Ubud. There are several temples within the complex with the most photographed being the “Pura Lingga Petak”.

The Pura Lingga Petak is a temple on Lake Bratan. The temple has 4 doors that face the four cardinal directions. The oldest temple in the complex was built in 1634 and is dedicated to the Shiva and is known as Penataran Agung.

How much is the entrance fee to Ulun Danu Temple?

The entrance fee for foreign adults is Rp 75,000 ($5.30) and children are Rp 50,000 ($3.55). Parking fees of Rp 5,000 ($0.35¢) are charged for cars and Rp 3,000 ($0.21) for motorbikes. 

Read A History of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan in 60 Seconds to know more. 

Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan

The seventh of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan. This temple is about a 30-minutes drive from Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. This lake is one of three lakes formed on an ancient caldera. The other two lakes are Lake Buyan and Lake Bratan.

There is an ancient temple located on the southern shore of the lake where only one village exists, the village of Gobleg that was mentioned in copper inscriptions dating back to 900CE. During the monsoon season, the temple is inundated and boats are needed to get to the temple. 

The other temples are Pura Endek, Pura Pengukiran, Pura Telaga Maya, Pura Pande Tamblingan, and Pura Embang.

Pura Ulun Danu Batur

The eighth of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is Pura Ulun Danu Batur. This temple is a 30-minute drive from Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan. This is the second most beautiful temple after Pura Ulun Danu Bratan.

The temple dates back to the 17th century and is dedicated to Dewi Batari, the Goddess of Lakes and Waterways in Balinese Hinduism. The temple is located at the foot of the caldera of Mount Batur and was once submerged in lava during the Mount Batur volcanic eruption of 1926.

Day 4: Pura Besakih & Tirta Gangga

On Day 4 of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights, we explore two major landmarks which are the “Mother Temple” Pura Besakih, and Tirta Gangga. We begin our day at Pura Besakih as the journey to this temple from Kuta would take at least two hours.

Pura Besakih

The ninth of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is Pura Besakih. This temple is also known as the Mother Temple of Besakih is about a 2-hour drive from Kuta. Hence, it is best to leave early to avoid the crowds that come later in the day.

Pura Besakih is located on the western slopes of Mount Agung and has 23 separate temples within its complex. These temples lead to the main spire, which is a representation of Mount Meru. 

When was Besakih built?

No one knows exactly when this temple was built. The first recorded mention of this temple dates back to 1,000 AD. By the time the first Javanese conquerors arrived in Bali, Pura Besakih was already a powerful temple of the Gelgel Dynasty.

Why is Pura Besakih spiritually significant?

Mount Agung is spiritually significant as local legends mention that the name Besakih is from the word “Besuki” which refers to the Dragon God named “Naga Besukian” who resides at Mount Agung.

Its spiritual significance rose after the 1963 Mount Agung eruption. This eruption killed about 1,700 people and threatened Pura Besakih’s existence. Miraculously, the lava flow stopped a few meters from the temple.

How much is the entrance fee to Pura Besakih? 

The entrance fee is Rp 60,000 ($4.30) for adults and Rp 30,000 ($2.15) for children. However, additional donations are expected. Fees are also charged for parking, video cameras, and cameras.

Tirtha Gangga

The eleventh of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is Tirta Gangga. This former royal palace is an hour’s drive from Pura Besakih. The literal translation of Tirta Gangga is “water from the Ganges”. 

This is based on the Balinese Hinduism belief that the waters of the Ganges River in India are sacred as they are used for irrigation, agricultural abundance, and economic activities. 

Similarly with Tirta Gangga whose waters are sacred and used for irrigation as the area surrounding this water palace is lush green paddy fields, for a postcard-perfect photo.

How much is the entrance fee to Tirta Gangga?

The entrance fee to Tirta Gangga is Rp 50,000 ($3.50) for adults and Rp 15,000 ($1.05) for children. The swimming pool fees are Rp 20,000 ($1.40) for adults in Pool A, Rp 10,000 ($0.70¢) in Pool B, and Rp 5,000 ($0.35¢) for the children’s pool. 

Day 5: Beach, Temple, and Kuta

Last on our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is visiting the famous Tanah Lot temple and relaxing by the beach watching the sunset at Kuta Beach.

Tanah Lot

The twelfth of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is Pura Tanah Lot. This temple is not only a popular tourist and cultural icon, it is also home to the Balinese Hindu pilgrimage temple. 

Tanah Lot means “lands at sea” as it sits on an offshore rock that has been shaped by the ocean tide. This temple is one of the seven sea temples that protect Balinese coasts. The deity worshipped here is Dewa Baruna who is the Balinese sea god.

According to local belief, Dang Hyang Nirartha spent the night on the island, and he later to fishermen to build a shrine at this place as he felt it was a holy place of worship. Nirartha is known as a Balinese traveler and was a religious figure in Bali during the 16th century. His statue is also worshipped here.

What is the best time to visit the Tanah Lot temple?

The best time to visit Tanah Lot is between 5.00 pm to 6.30 pm or just before sunset. 

Can you go into Tanah Lot temple?

No, you can’t enter the main temple area as it is closed to tourists. However, you can walk around the area. Some tips to note are:-

1. Obey all warnings as the waves here are high and during high tide, the rock becomes an island. 
2. Be careful when standing on the rocks as they are slippery from moss and algae.
3. Wear decent clothing as this is an active temple site for the Balinese.

How much is the entrance fee to the Tanah Lot temple?

The entrance fee is Rp 60,000 ($4.30) for adults and Rp 30,000 ($2.10) for children. The parking fee for motorcycles (two-wheelers) is Rp 3,000 ($0.21¢) and for cars (four-wheelers) is Rp 5,000 ($0.35¢). 

There are additional fees for drones which is Rp 500,000 ($35) and if you are shooting a video, the fee is Rp 2,000,000 ($140).

Sunset at Kuta Beach

The thirteenth and last of our Bali itinerary 5 days 4 nights is relaxing and watching the sunset at Kuta Beach. Kuta beach is also known as Sunset Beach while Sanur Beach is known as Sunrise Beach.

Don’t forget your Banana Boat SPF 100 Sunscreen Lotion when you are here. This lotion is non-greasy, is water and sweat-resistant, and comes with a banana scent. These 4-ounce bottles come in a pack of two because one is never enough.

Another must-have item is these Joopin Polarized Semi-Rimless Sunglasses. These sunglasses come with 9 layers of lenses and have a comfortable silicone nose pad. You can wear these glasses for the beach, driving, fishing, and outdoor activities. 

What does Kuta beach look like?

This beach is a 2.5 kilometer stretch of cream-colored sand that borders Legian on its north and Tuban on its south. The best time to visit Kuta beach is during the dry months between April to August. 

Read The Beach of Kuta: Everything You Need To Know to know more. 

What is Kuta famous for?

Kuta is known as an area that never sleeps. This lively beach town has a vibrant nightlife, bars, clubs, shopping, and hotels that suit every budget.

Where should I stay in Bali for the first time?

If you are planning a trip to Bali for the first time, knowing the best place to stay is a challenge itself. However, each area has its vibe, and at the end of the day, the choice is yours.

Kuta for First-Timers, Surfers & Nightlife

This former fishing village is also the first town to see substantial tourist development. Kuta is our first choice as it is the closest to Ngurah Rai International Airport. The area is also known for its nightlife, bars, restaurants, and affordable shopping.

The risk here is pickpocketing and credit card theft which is why we recommend the Travelon Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag that has lockdown straps to prevent grab-and-go thefts. The bag also comes with slash-resistant straps and locked compartments to prevent pickpocketing.

Our choice of hotels is Hard Rock Hotel, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, Aryaduta Bali, Alaya Dedaun Kuta, and Discovery Karthika Plaza Hotel.

Seminyak for Relaxing Vibes

Seminyak is located north of Kuta and Legian and is a mixed residential and tourist area. The crowd here is more upmarket as this area is popular with resident expatriates. You can expect to pay more for accommodation. 

Our choice of hotels here are W Seminyak, The Oberoi, Alila Seminyak, and Grand Balisani Suites.

Ubud for Arts, Crafts & Spirituality

This town is set amidst paddy fields, farms, and agroforestry plantations is also the cultural hub for art and dance. Art museums such as the Blanco Renaissance Museum, Neka Art Museum, and Agung Rai Museum of Art are some of the galleries you can find here.

Our choice of hotels here is Kamandalu Ubud, COMO Uma Ubud, Bidadari Private Villas & Retreat, and Kayon Jungle Resort.

What is the main language of Bali?

There are two main languages in Bali. The first is Bahasa Indonesia which is spoken by the citizens of Indonesia. 

The second language is the local Balinese that is spoken by about 3.3 million people on the island of Bali, Northern Nusa Penida, Lombok, Eastern Java, Southern Sumatra, and Sulawesi. The Balinese script or Aksara Bali is derived from the Brahmi script of India. 

How do you say hello in Bali?

The two ways to say hello in Bali is selamat pagi or selamat siang in Bahasa Indonesia. The Balinese version of hello is om swastyastu. 

How do you say thank you in Balinese?

In Bahasa Indonesia, thank you is terima kasih, and in Balinese, it is suksma while you’re welcome is suksma mawali. If you want to ask, how are you in Balinese, it is punapi gatra or engken kabare.

Read Indonesian Greetings: How To Say Hello In Bali, Useful Phrases In Balinese, and the 21 Essential Phrases You’ll Need In Indonesia to know more. 

Is Bali worth visiting?

Yes! Bali is an absolute must-visit destination, at least once in your lifetime. Why?

Well, it has stunning beaches, artistic vibes, plenty of shopping and dining options, and most importantly, the warmth and hospitality of its people that would make you want to return to the island of the gods.

From temples to beaches, lush rice terraces, and hidden waterfalls, Bali has something for everyone.

Read the Reasons Why You Should Visit Bali and the 20 Must-Visit Attractions In Bali to know more. 

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