chiang mai

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Getting Massages from Former Inmates in Chiang Mai

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Lila Thai Massage was created to support the lives of newly released inmates and offer them a chance to integrate back into the community. Just to be clear, these women are fully trained professional massage therapists as they've taken a 180 hour massage training course. 

I found the prices here to be fairly low compared to the other places in Chiang Mai. Plus, it's helping out a good cause. We went to their Prapokklao location, but you can check their website for others. 

They offer a variety of different massages, body and facial treatments. You can also get manicures and pedicures.

Our Experiences

When entering the massage centre, you'll be required to remove your shoes at the front door. Depending how busy it is, you should be able to choose and get your massage right away. Just note that I've heard that it can get really busy, so try to go at off-peak times or make a reservation. 

Once your masseuse is ready, she'll take you to the back to get your feet washed. You'll then be given dainty little slippers to walk in. They'll also offer you tea. 

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Cee went for the Thai Body Massage (200 baht). She was given a change of clothes and then taken to a room with several beds. A Thai Body Massage isn't what you would consider relaxing. It involves stretching and being placed in yoga positions. 

The whole body is worked from the feet to the head, including a scalp massage. It can be painful at times, but you feel very refreshed afterwards. Overall, it's a good massage and experience.

 
Massage bed for the oil body massage

Massage bed for the oil body massage

 

On the other hand, I opted for the oil body massage (450 baht). Before going into a private room and changing out of my clothes, I had the chance to choose my oil. They had several choices and descriptions on how it would affect you. I went for Jasmine. 

My massage started with my legs before she worked her way to my back, arms and neck. It was pretty relaxing until she tried to get rid of the knots in my back. Overall, I really enjoyed it! 

Also, remember to tip your masseuse (50-100 baht)!  

Happy Relaxing! 

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Exploring Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai

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To get to Wat Phra That temple, you can either hike or take a red truck here for 60 baht per person from the city centre. Just beware that they might switch trucks on the way, so make sure you confirm the price before you enter the second truck.

Once you reach the car park area, head up to where Naga (serpent) Staircase is. You'll pass tourist vendors along the way if you want to grab a snack or souvenirs. The intricately designed staircase has over 300 steps, so get ready for a mini workout. 

Once you reach the top, you'll need to buy a ticket to enter Wat Phra That. It costs 30 baht per person. Spend your time exploring the area and paying your respects.

Please note that when you enter the temple, you need to dress conservatively: shoulders and knees covered, no revealing tops and nothing disrespectful to Buddha or the King. You'll also need to remove your shoes before entering a temple. 

 

 
 

Happy Exploring! 

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Hiking the Monk's Trail Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai

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If you're looking to escape the city, try hiking the Monk's Trail up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The two hour hike takes you through a jungle to Wat Phra Lat Temple before a strenuous hike uphill to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. 

Hiking to Wat Phra Lat Temple 

The entrance of the trail starts at the end of Doi Suthep Road, past Chiang Mai University and behind Chiang Mai zoo. We took a red truck (red songthaews) to this point (20 baht each). This can be confusing to explain to a driver, since he originally took us to the wrong place. Just make sure you say Doi Suthep Road! 

End of Doi Suthep Road

When you reach the end of Doi Suthep Road, go right and continue past the signs for Chiang Mai Zoo. From here, the road will take you uphill for 5-10 minutes. Along the way, you'll pass a building on your left. 

Hike past the signs for Chiang Mai Zoo.

The uphill road. 

Just keep walking on the road for a few more minutes and you'll reach the entrance of the trail. You know you're there when you see the red and white TV Tower on your right. There will be orange cloth wrapped around the trees to mark the entrance. 

Entrance of the Monk's Trail. 

The 30-45 minute hike to Wat Phra Lat Temple is a little rocky, but heavily marked. Monks frequent the trail, so it is well maintained. The trail itself isn't too difficult, as you can see many people hiking in sandals. 

Orange markers

Once you reach Wat Phra Lat Temple, you can enjoy a break on the rocks. The atmosphere is very serene and tranquil as the temple is situated in a jungle by a river. 

Hiking to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

To get to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, it's going to take an hour and 15 minutes from this point. When you're ready, head back to the trail.

The trail will lead you up a steep section up to the road. Once you reach the road, head left along the rail. Look out for a yellow arrow painted on the road pointing across the street. Cross the street at this point and you should see an orange cloth marker on the tree.

This trail isn't as consistently marked, but well-travelled. So, watch out for any yellow paint markers on the ground. There's one section where you'll reach a fork in the trail. Take a left at this point. The trail will eventually turn into clay stairs until you reach the road, so get ready to walk up some steps. 

Beginning of the trail, after crossing the road. 

Clay steps

Once you reach the road, make sure to walk up the shoulder to get to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. We were advised against taking the trail to the right of the road due to aggressive wild dogs. However, it's up to your own discretion. 

Notes:

  • Make sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, bug spray and snacks.

Happy Hiking!