TheLoneRider
a seeker in search of Easter Eggs

COUNTRY (where I wrote this) > Thailand > Chiang Mai
Date > 2020 > Sep
Section > Yoga

Nong Khai, Thailand

Siddhis (yogic super powers) Sep 30, 2020

Siddhis (yogic super powers)

Translation: accomplishment, attainment, or success in connection to both the physical and superphysical worlds

What are Siddhis?
In yoga, siddhis are supernatural or magical powers that develop as the practitioner deepens his practice. There are 64 minor siddhis and 8 ashta siddhis (special siddhis). Siddhis happen involuntarily whether intentioned or not. Siddhis are not needed for enlightenment and can be ignored in pursuit of self-realization. In an idealized practice, showing-off or exhibiting siddhis is discouraged because they are simply regarded as distractions from staying on the path. Not all siddhis are desirable - depends if the yogi is ready.

How Siddhis are Acquired

  1. by birth - because of merits earned in previous lives, a person could simply be born with siddhis. This explains child prodigies who perform far beyond their years. Often times, siddhis remain inert until favorable conditions are met to unleash these gifts.

    Ramana Maharshi is a good example. At age 17, without wanting or desiring it, he became enlightened and consequently developed his siddhi (among others) of seeing the true nature of reality andteaching telepathically (he rarely spoke to his disciples).

    "Reincarnation is a major concept in Eastern philosophy. The Hindus believe that although we are born in this world with a tabula rasa (blank slate) we carry in us a set of potentialities called Samskaras (the seeds of our actions in previous lives). These tendencies, they say, remain inactive and only manifest when the right conditions are present. Some people may be born with certain talents, abilities, or even spiritual powers, but unless the conditions are favorable to their development, these gifts cannot be ripened to their fullest expression. Additionally, I.K. Taimni mentions in his commentary of the sutras that some people whose moral and intellectual development are not very highly advanced are sometimes born with certain spurious occult powers. The reason could be that they experimented with Yogic practices in their previous lives."
  2. tapas (austerities) - my understanding of tapas is when you have an easy option and a hard option to do something, you do it the hard way. Why? It develops strength of mind and fortitude. But I was not aware it also develops siddhis. I practice tapas as a general rule. Result? Austerity is embraced instead of developing an aversion to, pain is observed equanimously instead of being left to suffer, downturns in life are viewed as part of a karmic process instead of misfortune. In short, with tapas, nothing hurts anymore.

    Example: you can take the flight of steps instead of taking an elevator, or you can take a cold shower instead of a hot shower, or you can walk the mile to the store instead of taking your car. This concept is somehow similar to the Japanese code of the Bushido - cry in the dojo, laugh in the battlefield. When you are used to austerity, nothing hurts. While other people may suffer and complain, you can take the punishment or the ordeal with ease and a balanced mind.
  3. drugs or hallucinogens - LSD or ayahuasca have been a popular alternative as a mind expander - but I doubt if they really produce siddhis apart from the spiritual insight gained from the experience. Moreover, the reward is not 'earned' and the person may not be prepared for the epiphany. I personally do not find this alluring. Why rely on something external when the answers already reside within? But this is only the humble opinion of someone who hasn't tried any of those - me.

    On the other end of this spectrum, Graham Hancock, an author, extemporaraneous public speaker and advocate of man's hidden story, a man I greatly admire and respect, pontificates that psychedelics reveal to us the hidden realities that can help us understand life and our role in it. He stresses that no world leader should even aspire for such position unless he/she has had 12 sessions of ayahuasca.

    "Psychedelics Drugs & Entheogens – Siddhis can be developed by using drugs, but they cannot be compared to the higher class of spiritual powers only attained through Samyama meditation. If you're really into this, I suggest that you read John C. Lilly (inventor of the isolation tank). He's one of the few well-known psychonauts who mastered the technique of sensory deprivation and the use of psychedelics to explore the realms of higher consciousness."
  4. mantra (uttering a spiritual sound) - a mantra calms the mind and brings about spiritual awakening. A popular example of a mantra is OM. It is claimed to be the sound of the universe itself. It is the only sound that can be pronounced without the use of the tongue. Most chakras have their own mantra - LAM for muladhara, VAM for svadisthana, RAM for manipuraka, etc. There are long mantras that are powerful. One such is the Gayatri Mantra.
  5. samadhi - it takes a lot of dedication and years of practice to reach samadhi (meditative absorption). Samadi is on the highest level of the 8 limbs of yoga. Reaching samadi means having mastered yama (abstinences), niyama (observances), asana (yoga postures), pranayama (breath control), pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses), dharana (concentration), and dhyana (meditation). When siddhi finally happens as a result of samadhi, the practitioner is deeply anchored with the foundations of yoga and the underlying gift is profound and powerful.
Siddhis (yogic super powers)
Animadi Siddhi reduces your size to an atom

Vibhuti Pada by Patanjali
All sutras (short aphoristic statements) by the sage Patanjali referring to siddhis are contained in one of his 4 books, Vibhuti Pada: The Book of Spiritual Powers. The book explains what these powers are and how to attain them. Moreover, the book talks about consciousness.

In the 8 limbs of yoga, Patanjali specifically points to the last three (dharana, dhyana, and samadhi) which forms samyama to be practiced simultaneously to gain full control of these siddhis.

Dharana and Dhyana
To tame the mind and stop it from behaving like a monkey-mind is called dharana. This is essential to achieve ekagrata citta (one-pointedness of the mind). One who stills his mind to ekagrata will have all the senses under his command and will develop all the siddhis. When the mind gets controlled, the indriyas (perception senses - 5 for expression and 5 for cognition) become internalized and will perform their activities from inside. Hence by controlling the mind, all the indriyas will come under one's control.

What are the 8 Siddhis?
It should be noted that depending on the sect or tradition, the list of siddhis may vary. Tantric Buddhism, Sikhism, Samkhya philosophy, Vaishnavism, and Shaivism, all have their interpretation of siddhis. Below are the siddhis based on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras: (caveat: siddhi listings and their power vary from one source to another. Many overlap and exist in more than one chakra. Take this only as a bird's eyeview guideline)

  1. Anima Siddhi - aka animadi siddhi, ability to perceive the microscopic world
    mudra: mahadeva mudra - mula bandha mudra (anal squeeze) and bahya kumbhaka (breath retention on the exhalation) on uddiyana bandha (tummy-tuck). This increases the jathara agni (digestive fire) and gives rise to animadi guna siddhi (desired quality of animadi siddhi)
    statement: "I can become infinitely small and explore the quantum realm. Because the density in the body is changed, I can pass through solid objects. I am practically invisible."
  2. Mahima Siddhi - becoming infinitely large, having the ability to see the structures of the galaxies
  3. Laghima Siddhi - becoming weightless or lighter than air (caveat: in Alexandra David-Neel's account of her exploits in Tibet back in the 1920s, she recounts an adept who had to weigh down himself in chains because he has become so light, a gust of wind could blow him away)
  4. Garima Siddhi - ability to become infinitely heavy and be immovable by anyone or anything. You could have the weight of a black hole and pierce the fabric of space and time itself!
  5. Prapti Siddhi - instantaneously travel or be anywhere at will. This siddhi removes the limitations of space which separate two objects from each other. It is said one will even be able to touch the moon with one's finger (i.e. the limitation of distance is removed) (note: We are on the 3rd dimension according to some ancient texts. It is said that when we evolve into the 4 th dimension [out of 9], time becomes linear [no more past, present and future...just a singularity] and space is no longer defined by distance. Thus by inference, when we develop Prapti siddhi, we gain access to the 4th dimension)
  6. Prakamya Siddhi - ability to manifest desires or realize objects out of thin air (note: the sankalpa mudra helps in manifestation. By practising this mudra, the prakamya siddhi is developed)
  7. Isitva Siddhi - ability to create and destroy. Lordship over creation and annihilation (note: this means playing God. Can I trust myself not to use this against those who harmed me if I should ever develop it?)
  8. Vasitva Siddhi - ability to control all 5 elements of nature (fire, air, ether, earth and water), and mind control such as hypnosis (note: ah, the fabled air bender)
  9. Kama-avasayitva - complete satisfaction and freedom from desire (note: a life rooted in tapas [austerity] helps...when you only seek what is needed...nothing more)

Chakras and their Siddhis
Siddhis develop within their corresponding chakras, when these chakras are activated by Pranayama (together with yama, niyama and asana). However, it would seem that siddhis are not exclusive to one chakra - transcending time (Trikala jnana) is achieved when the Muladhara, Anahata, and Ajna chakras are activated (my contention here is that if the siddhi already happened in the lower chakra, then the siddhi remains when activating the higher chakras. Therefore, if Trikala jnana accurs at Muladhara, then it should no longer be mentioned that the same siddhi happens at the Anahata and Ajna chakras). Chakras are energy centers within the etheric body where nadis (energy pathways) converge - think of a bus terminal where all buses converge after going about their specific routes. There are 114 chakras altogether (note: all of them being a gateway to enlightenment, Buddha's enlightenment through awareness, being just one of 114), although only 7 are considered major chakras. Chakras are activated through meditation, asana, pranayama and bandha.

Muladhara Chakra

  1. the body becomes tough
  2. Darduri siddhi, jumping high and long, up in the air, (simulating flight). This was discussed in detail by Alexandra David-Neel as the Lung-gom-pas, in her book Magic And Mystery In Tibet.
  3. Trikala jnana, memory of past lives, ability to transcend time - present, past and future
  4. being disease-free
  5. mind is tamed and gives rise to sankalpa (ability to manifest desires)
  6. control over the 5 elements - air, fire, ether, earth, water
  7. kayakalpa siddhi, to slow down aging and live long by conserving amrita (the nectar of life)
  8. sense of smell is heightened
  9. levitation is achieved (earth element)
  10. writing ability is developed
  11. states of natural ecstacy happens spontaneously

Svadisthana Chakra

  1. sense of taste is greatly enhanced
  2. sharper intuition
  3. disease-free
  4. indefatigable
  5. admirable (even from his enemies), freedom from enemies, deep inner peace and charisma
  6. experience peace and violence will disappear
  7. walk through the jungle at night and no wild animal will harm him
  8. psychic powers, affinity with astral entities
  9. control of the senses resulting in creative ability, reflective nature, perfection of relationships, eloquence in speech, clarity in thinking
  10. the status of a lord among yogis
  11. being unafraid of water, walking on water (water element)
  12. sankalpa, ability to manifest desires

Manipuraka Chakra

  1. no food, no water, body subsists on prana alone
  2. skin becomes radiant
  3. impervious to fire (fire element)
  4. freedom from diseases, never encounter any physical or mental afflictions. These afflictions will flee his presence. Skin becomes radiant
  5. will be able to face any disaster or accident with mental fortitude
  6. he develops divya drishti (divine perception)
  7. experience the bliss of identifying atman (universal self) as a separate entity from the body
  8. all organs or parts of the body function at their proper strength. Body becomes lean
  9. conquers time
  10. can enter the body of another
  11. can make gold
  12. power to create and destroy

Surya Cakra

  1. optimizes digestion, no disease in the gut

Manas Cakra

  1. increases the power of intuition
  2. expands intellect (Manas and brain have a special connection)

Anahata Chakra

  1. pranic healing is developed
  2. stuck energies flow again, giving rise to affection, devotion and love
  3. arouses Nada (inner sound)
  4. becomes radiant. His presence can light up a room
  5. becomes endearing and loved by all. Women are drawn to him
  6. can practice with high levels of concentration and focus
  7. can articulate his ideas into powerful words
  8. becomes capable of protection and destruction
  9. can enter his body and other people's bodies at will
  10. awareness of one's karma, knowledge of past, present and future, clairvoyance ability
  11. ability to walk in the air
  12. ability to travel all over the world at the speed of thought
  13. seeing God in everything (not a concept but the actual seeing) occurs. Sensitivity to all, compassion for all and love for all

Vishuddhi Chakra

  1. body becomes impervious to suffering
  2. voice becomes melodious (good for singers)
  3. Laghima, the power of levitation
  4. occult competence
  5. speech is greatly articulated (gift of gab), communication, command of speech and mantras
  6. enhancement of artistic virtues
  7. attraction by ganas (disembodied beings)
  8. freedom from disease and old age
  9. destruction of dangers
  10. obtains calmness, serenity, purity
  11. understanding of dreams
  12. masters entire self
  13. becomes unconscious of the outer world and enjoys the inner realm
  14. supreme reasoning overcomes the heart
  15. transcends to a state of non-judgment
  16. begins to hear Nada sound (unstruck sound)

Ajna Chakra

  1. knowledge and wisdom are attained
  2. past karma is forgiven (really? I thought karma must be paid)
  3. destruction of karma (past lives)
  4. able to be in a continuous state of samadhi (realized non-duality)
  5. visions of past, present and future
  6. desires come true
  7. internal and external changes cease to be a problem
  8. seeing all events on the planet without moving

Sahasrara Chakra

  1. perfection is attained
  2. knowledge, knower and known become one and liberated
  3. feelings, emotions and desires are dissolved into their cause. Union is achieved. Non-dual consciousness occurs
  4. all siddhis are obtained
  5. transcends the desire to use those siddhis or manifest his desires
  6. no separation between the experience and the experiencer (I am that)

Brahmaguha (Lalata) Chakra

  1. the power to change your destiny

Other Siddhis

  1. Clairaudience: Knowledge of the Sounds-Language of All Beings
  2. Knowledge Of Past Lives Or Previous Births
  3. Telepathy: Knowledge Of The Minds Of Other Beings
  4. Foreknowledge Of The Time Of Death
  5. Strength Of Any Attitude (Such As Friendliness)
  6. Super Strength (Such As That Of An Elephant)
  7. Clairvoyance: Knowledge of Subtle, Hidden, & Remote Things
  8. Knowledge Of Other Worlds, Realms, And Universes
  9. Knowledge Of The Arrangement Of Stars And Planets
  10. Knowledge Of The Movement Of Stars And Planets
  11. Full Knowledge Of The Systems Of The Body
  12. Freedom From Hunger And Thirst
  13. The Power Of Steadiness Or Immobility
  14. Visions of Siddhas (Perfected Beings)
  15. Intuitive Knowledge or Spontaneous Illumination
  16. Knowledge Of The Nature Of The Mind
  17. Knowledge Of Pure Consciousness (Spirit/Purusha)
  18. Extra Sensory Perception: Activating Your Psychic Abilities
  19. Entering And Controlling The Bodies Of Others
  20. Radiating Light Around The Body (The Luminosity of Auras)
  21. Super Hearing (Hearing At Vast Distances)
  22. Ability To Travel Through Space (Teleportation)
  23. Vision Of The Light Of The Universal Mind
  24. Mastery Of The Elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Ether)
  25. Making The Body Atomically Small, Indestructible, Perfect
  26. Perfection Of The Body In Beauty, Strength, And Brilliance
  27. Mastery Over The Five Senses Of The Body
  28. Quickness Of The Mind (Instantaneous Cognition)
  29. Omnipotence & Omniscience: Mastery Of All States Of Existence
  30. Knowledge Born Of The Awareness Of Ultimate Reality
  31. Intuitive Discernment: Ability To Distinguish or Differentiate All Things
  32. Higher Knowledge And Wisdom
  33. Absolute Freedom: The Perfect Spiritual Life
  34. The Psychic Abilities Described as the Hindu Siddhis
  35. Anurmi-Mattva: Undisturbed by anger or other emotions
  36. Dura-Sravana: Ability to hear far away sounds
  37. Dura-Darsanam: Ability to see faraway things
  38. Manah-Java: Moving the body to follow thought
  39. Kamap-Rupam: Assumption of any form
  40. Para-Kaya Pravesanam: Entering other's bodies
  41. Sva-Chanda Mrityuh: Dying when desiring
  42. Devanam Saha Krida Anudarsanam: Seeing the past times of gods and angels
  43. Yatha Sankalpa Samsiddhihih: Meeting one's objectives
  44. Ajna Apratihata Gatih: Being obeyed without objection
  45. Aeromancy: Interpreting the shapes of the clouds
  46. Afterlife communication: Connecting with the dead
  47. Alomancy: Reading patterns of salt thrown in the air and cast on the floor
  48. Apantomancy: Interpreting the meeting of encounters with animals
  49. Astral Projection: Out of body travel
  50. Aura Reading: Interpreting the auric field
  51. Automatic Writing: Writing a message from an outside intelligence through the subconscious mind
  52. Bibliomancy: Interpreting a passage from a book chosen at random
  53. Catoptromancy: Telling fortunes with a mirror
  54. Channeling: Delivering a message from an outside intelligence that enters the body of the interpreter
  55. Chirmancy: Palmistry – Divination from the lines of the hand
  56. Clairalience: Ability to smell that which is not present
  57. Clairaudience: Ability to hear events
  58. Claircognizant: The sense of clear knowing
  59. Clairempathy: Sensing other's emotions
  60. Clairgustance: Ability to taste that which is not present
  61. Clairsentience: Ability to sense other's feelings or senses
  62. Clairtangecy / Clairsensitivity: Ability to read energy from objects
  63. Clairvoyance: Psychically see nonphysical realities
  64. Cleromancy: Divination through casting stones, bones or dice
  65. Crystallomancy: Seeing the future through a crystal ball
  66. Deja vu: Sensing events have already happened
  67. Demonomancy: Summoning demons to answer questions
  68. Divination: Using gifts to obtain answers
  69. Dowsing: Using an instrument to locate water, metals or other things underground
  70. Dream Interpretation: Interpreting the meaning of dreams
  71. Empathy: Sensing other's feelings, illnesses, sensations, knowledge and more
  72. Exorcism: releasing of negative entities
  73. Feng Shui: Manipulating the environment to bring about certain outcomes
  74. Gyromancy: Divination by perimeters with an alphabet (ouija board)
  75. Healing: Creating more wholeness within another
  76. Horoscopy: Astrology
  77. Hydromancy: Divination through observing water
  78. Hypnosis: Creation of a trance state for healing or answers
  79. I Ching: Ancient Chinese form of divination
  80. Intuition: Catch all term for managed use of psychic abilities
  81. Levitation: Floating the body or objects
  82. Libanomancy: Interpreting shapes in smoke
  83. Mediumship: Serving as a conduit for other worldly beings
  84. Megagnomy: Ability to use an ability during a hypnotic state
  85. Oculomancy: Divination through looking into eyes
  86. Past-Life Regression: Using a meditative state to explore past lives
  87. Precognition: Ability to foretell the future
  88. Prophecy: Knowledge of divine will
  89. Psychometry: Gaining knowledge through touching objects
  90. Pyrokenisis: Sparking fire with the mind
  91. Scrying: Using an object to see psychically
  92. Tarot Reading: Use of tarot cards to prophesize
  93. Tasseography: Reading tea leaves or coffee grains
  94. Telekenesis: Moving objects without touching them
  95. Telepathy: Hearing mind to mind information
  96. Transfiguration: Superimposition of a face on a medium
  97. Voodoo: Practices from the Voodoo religion
  98. Xenoglossy: Speaking a language that is not one's own

Ending Thoughts
Siddhis are a tall claim, especially the ones that are bigger than life - defy aging or even death. Why? Because all these sages, yogis and ascendant masters aged and died. Are siddhis real? From a personal perspective, yes, they do exist to a point where they are still within human range - increased articulation, clearer-faster-sharper-expansive thinking, resilience to disease, delayed aging, increased strength, synchronicities, exorcising your demons, etc. These enhancements come with deepened practice. But I haven't met anyone with superhuman abilities. Even if there are those who possess these magical gifts, I don't think they'd like to come out in the open. For one thing, it diverts their practice because public adulation will be intoxicating. Secondly, people regard them as not-normal - they lose their boy-next-door accessibility. People will hound them for whatever needs they have.

Personally, I toyed with the idea of having these supernatural gifts. But what would I do with them? If I had the ability to reverse Çovid, would I? Perhaps not. I see these things as karmic episodes that need to happen for a purpose beyond my limited comprehension. Who am I to get in the way?

Candidly though, if I do develop a siddhi, I would like it to be an animadi (to be infinitely small) so I can take the size of a photon. Another siddhi I'd like is prapti (traveling at the speed of thought) so I can travel at the speed of light, like that of a photon. This is my burning desire. Why? Because photons are quantum-sized particles traveling at the speed of light. It's not so much the speed per se, but how time and space warp at that speed. Time slows down (time dilation) as you near the speed of light. But at the speed of light, time itself stops - you are not leaving the past behind and you are not approaching the future. Both past and future are contained in the present. Science claims that all 3 elements of time are a singularity. But our minds cannot comprehend that because we experience time as linear - leaving the past, experiencing the present and heading into the future. But as a photon, you actually experience the singularity of time. I find this more fascinating than walking on water. And if I ever develop that siddhi, my lips will be sealed.

--- Gigit (TheLoneRider)
YOGA by Gigit Yoga by Gigit | Learn English Learn English | Travel like a Nomad Nomad Travel Buddy | Donation Bank Donation Bank for TheLoneRider

Sources

  1. pdf Siddhi: An Essay on Yogic Power - a short documentary/essay on the subject of Siddhi in the The Yoga-Sūtra of Patañjali by Georgi Krastev
  2. The Secret Natural Abililties of Man - by likeanangel


Leave a comment?

Reader Comments:

tothestars77@protonmail.com "Because all these sages, yogis and ascendant masters aged and died."
CC
(Jul 28, 2023) The masters go into animated suspension, stopping heart. That's the secret of inmortality longevity and youthfulness. The masters were never dead.

horse@lmi.netMark
(Jul 14, 2023) Great article! I always thought siddhis were the coolest thing ever, partly because they prove that the phenomenal world is not what we think it is. I've also observed that psychic abilities have no direct bearing to a person's spiritual aptitude, so they are of dubious importance. Whatever, they fascinate me. I think I was a yogi in a past life(!).

AmyAmy
(Nov 12, 2021) Great article! I look forward to reading more of your enlightening website! Thank you for taking the time to elucidate truth!!

Ayn LatonioAyn Philippines
Vinyasa Krama by Srivatsa Ramaswami
(Oct 1, 2020) Git 🙏🙏🙏 coincidentally, we're in Siddhasana in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika textual immersion course that I'm taking. Although, in the yoga sutras commentaries, it is specifically mentioned that LSD and weed are not part of the herbs that induce siddhis. And also one of my favorite Sutras Samadhisiddhirisvarapranidhanat (2.45) and the greatest Siddhi of all - knowing the true nature of the self. It is said that Patanjali wrote this chapter to warn yogis not to stop there because at that time a lot of them were blinded by these achievements and tend to stop here and lose sight of the real goal. Some even used these powers for personal/material gain.

Another awesome fact-based article Git! As always! 🙏🙏🙏🙏 I love it!

TheLoneRiderGigit
(Oct 1, 2020) So true, that's why I mentioned, "For one thing, it (flaunting their siddhis) diverts their practice because public adulation will be intoxicating." I've seen this many times in every facet of achievement. e.g. - wall climbers once they hear the applause of an audience, stop pushing the envelope because they become satiated with public adulation (why push any further when I am already 'worshipped'?). Succumbing to your siddhi is to put a cap in your practice.

AynAyn
(Oct 1, 2020) Git let me know when you become a photon and don't forget to write the instructions on how to get there. Hahahaha

Jessie Villabona SeverinoJessie Philippines
Iyengar Yoga Teacher
(Oct 1, 2020) Interesting

NataschaNatascha Germany
Awareness - the energy is inside
(Oct 1, 2020) Oh yes!!!!

Next story:

Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020 Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020

(Sep 30, 2020) Like a revolving door, Chiang Mai's peoplescape continues to revolve bringing-in new arrivals while those who were stranded were finally able to leave. This begins a new chapter in the mosaic making up the faces that adorn Chiang Mai....more »»

Next Yoga article:

Yoga for a 360-degree Core yoga

Yoga for a 360-degree Core

(Nov 6, 2020) This online Yoga for Core Development class selects asanas designed for the core and also includes established gym core practices. They are fused together with pranayama and meditation to bring about a fortified core (abs, obliques and lower back muscles), a state of stillness and increased awareness.....more »»

Chiang Mai INFORMATION

Chiang Mai Map
Google Map

Chiang Mai, Thailand

important places in Chiang Mai IMPORTANT PLACES
Chiang Mai Bus Station Bus Station
Chiang Mai Train Station Train Station
Chiang Mai airport Chiang Mai International Airport
Nong Buak Hard Park Nong Buak Hard Park - free yoga classes daily

hotels in Chiang Mai HOTEL
Chiang Mai Arun Dara Villa Arun Dara Villa - 7 exclusive rooms, 1 swimming pool for every room, grand opening
Chiang Mai Nawa Sheeva Hotel Nawa Sheeva Hotel - big rooms, high ceiling, salt-water pool, restaurant, cafe
Chiang Mai Nawa Saraan Hotel Nawa Saraan Hotel - low density (4 spacious rooms), stone garden setting, Koi fish pond, Old City location
Arun Suite, Chiang Mai Arun Suite - 3 bedrooms in a 3-storie guesthouse within Old City, ideal for families

birds nest restaurants in Chiang Mai RESTAURANT
La Pizza Chiang Mai La Pizza Chiang Mai - Italian pizza, pasta, wine, dessert, coffee
Chiang Mai birds nest restaurant Natural Bird Nest by Burapa - authentic bird's nest soup

Thai massage in Chiang Mai WELLNESS
ITM – International Training Massage School ITM - International Training Massage School - Chiang Mai's most prestigious massage school
Float Chiang Mai Float Chiang Mai - sensory deprivation float pod
Chiang Mai, Royal Thai Lanna Massage Zira Spa - upscale authentic Thai massage and spa treatment

motorcycle rental in Chiang Mai MOTORBIKE RENTAL
Chiang Mai birds nest motorcycle Tawan Bike - motorcycle rental | +66 91 635 2863 | Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200



Chiang Mai FYI / Tips
  • crop-burning season in Chiang Mai is between late Feb to early April. But laws change everytime. This year, 2019, there is a 61-day ban on burning so the farmers started burning early. When my plane was approaching Chiang Mai on Jan 24, 2019, there was already a thick blanket of smog covering the entire city (and beyond). But within the city itself, you won't feel it (but that doesn't mean the air is healthy). To monitor air conditions in real time, refer to site: Chiang Mai Air Pollution: Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI)
  • hot season begins March and lasts until June
  • wet season begins July and lasts until September
  • best time to visit Chiang Mai is mid-September to mid-February - after the monsoon and before the burning
  • you have to try Khao Soi, this is north Thailand's culinary staple
  • the tourist area where most of the hotels, restaurants, ticket offices, tour operators are, is located in the Old City
  • to exchange your dollars to Thai Baht, the Super Rich Money Exchange give the best rates. There are many branches scattered around Chiang Mai
  • get a red cab (songthao) outside the train station for Baht 50 (instead of paying B100 if inside the train station) to Old City - if you haggle nicely enough...I did!
  • shared red taxi (songthao) - B30 standard fare plying all over Old City
  • for only B50/day, best to rent a bike to go around the Old City - it's a 2.5km2 with lots to discover
  • FREE daily yoga classes from 9:00am to 10:15am at Nong Buak Hard Park (southwest corner of Old City). Resident and passing-through teachers take turns conducting yoga classes.
Blues/Jazz Bars in Chiang Mai
  1. North Gate Jazz Coop - at Chang Phueg Gate, great Tuesday jam session, Blues on Sundays at 11pm by the Chiang Mai Blues band
  2. Boy Blues Bar - at the Night Bazaar. Mondays at 9:30pm is open mic
  3. My Secret Cafe - near Wat Phra Singh. Tuesdays at 7:30pm for the changing front-act and 9:00pm for the Panic Band
  4. Taphae East - 88 Thapae Rd. (just north of Night Bazaar). Fridays at 9:30pm by Chiang Mai Blues Band
Chiang Mai Cost Index
  • B60 Chiang beer
  • B250 1 hour drop-in yoga session
  • B200 one hour Thai body massage at WAYA Massage (highly recommended)
  • B50 noodle soup with meat
  • B50 coffee
  • B40 pad thai
  • B30/kilo wash-only laundry
  • B50/kilo wash+iron laundry
  • B100-150 dorm bed/night
  • B250 fan room/night
  • B30 internet cafe/hour
  • B170-190 Movies Sat-Sun and public holidays
  • B130-150 Movies weekdays
  • B100 Movies Wednesdays (movie discount day)
  • B750 1/2 day Thai cooking lessons
  • B900-1000 1 full day Thai cooking lessons
  • B400 Muay Thai boxing ticket
  • B2500 starting room rate at the luxury hotel, Nawa Sheeva (highly recommended)

  • Transportation
  • B450 bus, Chiang Mai to Bangkok
  • B160-180 bus, Chiang Mai to Pai
  • B1250 bus, Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
  • B1650 slow boat, Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
  • B210 bus, Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, 3-4 hours
  • B360 Green VIP bus, Chiang Mai to Mae Sai (Thai border town for visa run to Tachileik, Myanmar)
  • B50 bicycle rental, 24 hours
  • B200 motorbike rental, 24 hours
  • B273 #51 sleeping train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • B638 #7 a/c train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • B50 red taxi fare from point to point
  • B100 red taxi fare from train terminal to city

  • Tours
  • B2000 full day elephant sanctuary
  • B750 Chiang Rai one-day tour
  • B1500 mountain biking scenic ride
Chiang Mai Trains by Train36.com
  1. Chiang Mai trains for Bangkok - 2 day trains, 3 night trains, daily schedule
  2. Train 14 to Bangkok - departs 5pm daily, arrives BKK 6:15am, 1st class and 2nd class sleeping accomodation, Special Express
  3. Chiang Mai trains to other destinations -
Chiang Mai to Bangkok Trains source: railway.co.th
  1. Check Train Schedule & Fares
  2. Book Online - direct booking with State Railway of Thailand. Best to register first. If going to BKK from CNX, click "Northern Line".

    note -- big difference between booking direct with the State Railway and booking with an online 3rd party agent. 12GO was charging B1330 for the same trip that only cost me B941 with the State Railway.

    note -- Oct 2022, I took the #10 Train from CNX to BKK, upper berth, 2nd class, a/c, sleeper, B941. The train was clean, fast, comfortable and modern. If you have heavy luggage that will cost more money in flight checkin, I would suggest this train. Otherwise, the flight now is so much cheaper it doesn't even make sense to take the bus or train.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train from Bang Sue Train Station

For more train info: Bangkok to Chiang Mai trains - departing from Hua Lamphong - MRT (Bangkok)

(I'm using Bang Sue as a starting point because I was closer to it, but you may be closer to the Hua Lamphong station)

  1. take the MRT train to Bang Sue Station. Take the #1 Exit to the north provincial trains
  2. Proceed to Counter 2. You will see an information booth, a train schedule chart and the ticket counter. Choose the train and pay at the ticket counter.
  3. daily train schedule:
    • 8:48am - #7 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 7:30pm, not sleeper, B638
    • 2:06pm - #109 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 4:05am, sleeper
    • 6:31pm - #9 Premium Train, arrive Chiang Mai 7:15am, sleeper, B938 upper deck, B1038 lower deck
    • 7:56pm - #13 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 8:40am, sleeper, B768 upper deck, B838 lower deck
    • 10:22pm - #51 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 12:10pm, sleeper, 3rd class B270 (non sleeper), 2nd class B438, B728 upper deck, B798 lower deck
Loei to Chiang Mai by Bus
  1. From Loei town center, take a tuk-tuk ride to the bus station, B30. There is only one bus station.
  2. As of June 28, 2020 (still on Covid schedule), there are only 3 night trips: 8:30pm, 9:30pm and 12 midnight. 9 hours, B470.
  3. The bus makes the following stops at the following times from a 9pm Loei departure: Phu Ruea (9:50pm), Phitsanulok (12:40am), Uttradit (2:20am), Lampang (4:35am)
  4. Final bus stop is at the Red Bus Arcade, Chiang Mai, 9 hour-trip, arriving 6am (from 9pm Loei departure).
  5. Take a red songthaew to Old City, B50. They'll try to charge you B100, but they'll take B50 (just assure the driver you won't tell the other passengers).
Chiangmai Blogs by TheLoneRider
  1. Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019 - Oct 10, 2022
  2. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
  3. Siamaya Chocolates Oct 2, 2022
  4. [an error occurred while processing this directive]
  5. September Snapshots Sep 30, 2022
  6. Carrot Cake Sep 12, 2022
  7. Making Coconut Bread Sep 3, 2022
  8. August Snapshots Aug 31, 2022
  9. Yoga Nidra with Chunyah and Tom Aug 18, 2022
  10. Coconut Pancake Aug 11, 2022
  11. July Snapshots Jul 31, 2022
  12. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
  13. Jason, Max and Elizabeth Pizza Nite Jul 28, 2022
  14. Yakiniku Dinner with Max and Jason Jul 25, 2022
  15. Icebath at Nawa Saraan Jul 6 - Oct 5, 2022
  16. June Snapshots Jun 30, 2022
  17. Tom, Chunyah and Simona Pizza Nite Jun 23, 2022
  18. Yoga Class Pizza Nite Jun 15, 2022
  19. Pranayama with Nicha Jun 14, 2022
  20. May Snapshots May 31, 2022
  21. Lover's Quarrel May 26, 2022
  22. Getting Lost on a Hike May 25, 2022
  23. Biohacker Meetup at 'Living with The Spirit' May 22, 2022
  24. Music and Magic at Paapu House May 5, 2022
  25. Breathwork + Icebath @ Alt_Chiangmai II Apr 20, 2022
  26. April Chronicles 2022 Apr 30, 2022
  27. Tombstone Epitaph Apr 29, 2022
  28. Kayaking along the Ping River with the BioHackers Apr 24, 2022
  29. [an error occurred while processing this directive]
  30. Pizza Nite with Jerry, Paolo and Abby Apr 9, 2022
  31. Tom Maher's Muay Thai Fight Apr 8, 2022
  32. Breathwork + Icebath @ Alt_Chiangmai Apr 6, 2022
  33. Yoga with Leo Apr 5, 2022
  34. March Chronicles 2022 Mar 31, 2022
  35. Street Photo Mar 31, 2022
  36. Peoplescape Mar 31, 2022
  37. Chiang Mai's Recovering Music Scene Mar 31, 2022
  38. Street Photo Mar 31, 2022
  39. Yoga and Fitness Mar 26, 2022
  40. Friday Bitcoin Meetups Mar 18, 2022
  41. Pizza Nite with Aida and Sophie Mar 14, 2022
  42. Pizza Nite with Kevin, Jamie and Kris Mar 10, 2022
  43. In Search of Genetic Immortality Mar 5, 2022
  44. February Chronicles 2022 Feb 28, 2022
  45. Palm-Feeding Wild Birds Feb 26, 2022
  46. Cuckoo Feb 16, 2022
  47. Tell John Feb 16, 2022
  48. Pizza Nite with Kris, Simona and Mary Feb 15, 2022
  49. Pizza Nite with the Chiang Mai Boyz Feb 6, 2022
  50. Welcoming the New Year Jan 31, 2022
  51. January Snapshots Jan 31, 2022
  52. ABS Fitness Challenge Jan 16 - Apr 16, 2022
  53. Pumpkin Tahini Recipe Jan 3, 2022
  54. 2021: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2021
  55. Pizza Nite with Simona and Lisa Dec 28, 2021
  56. Tahini Salad Dressing Dec 27, 2021
  57. Baba Ganoush Recipe Dec 23, 2021
  58. 7 Universal Laws Dec 20, 2021
  59. Sacred Circuitry Dec 18, 2021
  60. Cave-Living in a Boutique Hotel in Chiang Mai Dec 14, 2021
  61. Tummo Yoga + Wim Hof Breathing + Full-Body Muscle Contraction Dec 13, 2021
  62. Monk Chat Dec 10, 2021
  63. Making Tahini and Hummus Dec 8, 2021
  64. Watering the Plants Hands-Free Dec 2, 2021
  65. Vietnamese Phin Coffee Filter Dec 2, 2021
  66. Tummo Yoga Dec 1, 2021
  67. The Bliss of Inner Fire: Book Summary/Review Dec 1, 2021
  68. The Bliss of Inner Fire: Heart Practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa Dec 1, 2021
  69. 'Must Experience' Cafés of Chiang Mai Nov 30, 2021
  70. British Hobnob Cookies Nov 22, 2021
  71. New York Cheese Cake Nov 22, 2021
  72. Dham's Poetry Nov 14, 2021
  73. Pizza Nite with Simona and Nat Nov 11, 2021
  74. Stepping Forward / Reaching Out Oct 31, 2021
  75. Cancel Culture Attack Oct 31, 2021
  76. Mantra Primer Oct 29, 2021
  77. Spinal Mobility Oct 7, 2021
  78. Swedish Cinnamon Rolls [Kanelbullar] Oct 4, 2021
  79. Just Bring 2 Chinese Oct 3, 2021
  80. Sep Snapshots Sep 31, 2021
  81. One-Leg Yoga Asana Sequences Sep 30, 2021
  82. Pizza Nite with Nut, Monika and Yuki Sep 27, 2021
  83. 23-Minute Ice Bath Sep 27, 2021
  84. Pizza Nite with Nut, Simona and Malee Sep 23, 2021
  85. Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) Sep 23, 2021
  86. Making Cornbread Sep 15, 2021
  87. Kombucha: 2nd Batch Sep 11, 2021
  88. Making German Stollen Bread Sep 9, 2021
  89. Pizza Nite with Jackson, Goi and Paapu Sep 6, 2021
  90. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
  91. Making Homemade Kombucha Aug 30, 2021
  92. Wrong Question to Ask This Crowd Aug 29, 2021
  93. Pizza Nite with Tom, Chunyah and Goi Aug 20, 2021
  94. Pizza Nite with Moms and Kids Aug 15, 2021
  95. Bahya Kumbhaka (breath-hold on the exhale) Aug 14, 2021
  96. Everybody's Only Friend Aug 13, 2021
  97. Vanillekipferl (German Vanilla Crescent Cookies) Aug 11, 2021
  98. Fighting Infection through Yoga Aug 3, 2021
  99. Too Close for Friendship Aug 2, 2021
  100. Manifesting: Epicurus' Pursuit Jul 31, 2021
  101. Homemade Rum Raisin Ice Cream Jul 30, 2021
  102. Ice Bath at Nawa Saraan Healing Space Jul 25, 2021
  103. Pizza Nite + Slack Line + Hammock Jul 23, 2021
  104. Yin-Yoga & Hypnosis with Christine Thiel Jul 20, 2021
  105. Pizza Nite with James and Nat Jul 19, 2021
  106. Antara Kumbhaka on Nadi Shodan Pranayama: Yogic Breath-Hold on the Inhale Jul 17, 2021
  107. Moving and Cashing-Out Bitcoin Jun 2 - Jul 11, 2021
  108. 'The Bow' Yoga Jul 7, 2021
  109. Yoga Classes with Calum Mar 27 - Jul 4, 2021
  110. Hike to Wat Pa Thammachat Waterfall Jul 2, 2021
  111. Pizza Brunch with the Yogis July 1, 2021
  112. Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
  113. On the Brink of Hunger, the ENABLERS Come to Light Jun 21, 2021
  114. Hatha Vinyasa Yoga with Katharine Day Jun 17, 2021
  115. Pranayama Basics II Jun 16, 2021
  116. 36-Hour Love Life Jun 11, 2021
  117. Pranayama Basics I Jun 9, 2021
  118. Biohackers Meetup in Chiang Mai Jun 6, 2021
  119. Learning How to Breathe Jun 2, 2021
  120. Not the Usual Day-to-Day Life May 31, 2021
  121. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
  122. Breathwork & Ice Bath with Jason Ryer of Zen Strength May 23, 2021
  123. It's Raining Bell Peppers May 7, 2021
  124. Yoga Classes with Nana Apr 20, 2021
  125. You Want to be Wonder Woman? Apr 8, 2021
  126. Kunjal Kriya / Vamana Dhauti (induced vomiting) Apr 1, 2021
  127. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
  128. Varisara Dhauti (cleansing of the entire digestive tract) Mar 26, 2021
  129. Spiritual Backpacker Interview by Napasorn 'Cherry' Suvarnapradip Mar 23, 2021
  130. Private One-on-One Yoga Classes with Doriana Feb 17 - Mar 14, 2021
  131. Transformational Life Events Mar 13, 2021
  132. Guess Who's Coming to Bread Day? Mar 1, 2021
  133. Mula Shodhana (anal cleansing) Feb 27, 2021
  134. Are You My Queen? Feb 25, 2021
  135. Breaking the 5-Minute Breath-hold Barrier Feb 25, 2021
  136. Kirtan with Chiang Mai's Khun Thai Seekers Feb 7, 2021
  137. Breaking the 4-minute Breath-hold Feb 7, 2021
  138. Pranayama Primer Feb 2, 2021
  139. Heartbreak in every Song Jan 24, 2021
  140. The Silent Killer is Baaack! Jan 12, 2021
  141. Learning the Thai Language Jan 9, 2021
  142. 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
  143. Reversing/Slowing Down the Aging Process Dec 30, 2020
  144. Hike to Huay Keaw Waterfall Dec 20, 2020
  145. Yoga Mat Dec 19, 2020
  146. Hiking to Wat Pha Lat along the Monk's Trail Dec 19, 2020
  147. Am I Psycho? Dec 9, 2020
  148. Muffin Man Dec 8, 2020
  149. Polyamory Dec 4, 2020
  150. The Wim Hof Ice Bath Dec 3, 2020
  151. RSVP Nov 25, 2020
  152. High Intensity Interval Yoga (Yoga + HIIT) Nov 14, 2020
  153. Cleansing the Nadis (Energy Pathway) Nov 13, 2020
  154. Yoga for a 360-degree Core Nov 6, 2020
  155. Edward Witten: 'the smartest living physicist' Nov 4, 2020
  156. Srinivasa Ramanujan: Mathematician of the Divine Oct 27, 2020
  157. Bashar as Channeled by Darryl Anka Oct 26, 2020
  158. Vinyasa Krama and Ashtanga Yoga with Aida Yoga Oct 18, 2020
  159. Deepak Chopra: author, lecturer, healer Oct 12, 2020
  160. Facebook Friends Oct 1, 2020
  161. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020 Sep 30, 2020
  162. Siddhis (yogic super powers) Sep 30, 2020
  163. Learning the Import/Export Trade Sep 4, 2020
  164. Music and Magic at Justin's Birthday Bash Sep 3, 2020
  165. Biggest Stone in his Shoe Sep 1, 2020
  166. Abandoned Aug 25, 2020
  167. Intelligent Romantic Break-up Aug 25, 2020
  168. Dad-Zoned Aug 18, 2020
  169. Public Display of Affection Aug 9, 2020
  170. Gabriella's Birthday Bash at Mothership Resort Aug 8-9, 2020
  171. Shifting Peoplescape of Chiang Mai July 31, 2020
  172. Yoga Class for Strength and Muscle Jul 30, 2020
  173. Yoga Class for Optimum Digestion July 29, 2020
  174. Yoga Class for Healthy Eyes Jul 27, 2020
  175. Hippie Night at Nawa Saraan Healing Space July 24, 2020
  176. The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
  177. Prana Vayu Adhitthana Yoga Class July 11-12, 2020
  178. Coming Back to Chiang Mai Jun 29, 2020
  179. Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 23, 2020
  180. Prasnopanishad: Understanding Prana Jan 17, 2020
  181. Hiking the Monk's Trail Jan 15, 2020
  182. Chaturanga Jan 10, 2020
  183. You Spooned Me Jan 3, 2020
  184. 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
  185. Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
  186. Visiting Mae Sot Dec 27-30, 2019
  187. Let's Make it About You - an Epiphany Dec 17, 2019
  188. Shut-Up! Dec 7, 2019
  189. Roasted Red Bell Pepper Puree Dec 3, 2019
  190. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Nov 2019) Nov 30, 2019
  191. Bhujangini Mudra Nov 25, 2019
  192. Mathangini Mudra Nov 24, 2019
  193. Kaka Mudra Nov 23, 2019
  194. Pasini Mudra Nov 20, 2019
  195. Aswini Mudra Nov 18, 2019
  196. Sambhavi Mudra Nov 16, 2019
  197. Manduka Mudra Nov 15, 2019
  198. Tataka Mudra Nov 14, 2019
  199. Sakti Calana Mudra Nov 10, 2019
  200. Vajroli Mudra Nov 9, 2019
  201. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Oct 2019) Oct to Nov 5, 2019
  202. Yoni Mudra Nov 1, 2019
  203. Viparita Karani Mudra Oct 31, 2019
  204. Khecari Mudra Oct 30, 2019
  205. Mahadeva Mudra Oct 28, 2019
  206. Sacred Cacao - Chakra Dance Journey Oct 26, 2019
  207. Partner Healing with Natascha Oct 24, 2019
  208. Maha Bandha Mudra Oct 24, 2019
  209. Point-Of-Failure Birthday Workout Oct 22, 2019
  210. Mula Bandha Mudra Oct 21, 2019
  211. Hugfest at Thapae Gate, Chiang Mai Oct 19, 2019
  212. Anushasan Mudra Oct 18, 2019
  213. Ling Mudra Oct 17, 2019
  214. Jalandhara Bandha Mudra Oct 15, 2019
  215. Learning Thai with Cee Oct 13, 2019
  216. Uddiyana Bandha Mudra Oct 10, 2019
  217. Nabho Mudra Oct 9, 2019
  218. Maha Mudra Oct 7, 2019
  219. 20 Essential Mudras by T. Krishnamacharya Oct. 6, 2019
  220. Mindfulness Gong Bath by Vee (Veerayuth Pongsiri) Oct 3, 2019
  221. Cuddle Party by Abundant Love CM Oct 1, 2019
  222. Vayu Mudra Oct 1, 2019
  223. Visa-Run to Tachileik, Myanmar Sep 28, 2019
  224. Sankalpa Mudra Sep 27, 2019
  225. Surya Pradarshini Mudra Sep 26, 2019
  226. Eye-Gazing at Heart Space Sep 20, 2019
  227. Prana Vayu (Pranic Wind) Sep 20, 2019
  228. 2-Week Yoga Challenge by Agnese Erba Sep 17, 2019
  229. The Mudra Project Sep 13, 2019
  230. Sunday Vinyasa Flow with Marina Forster Sep 8, 2019
  231. Shamanic Breathwork by Rachel Constantino Sep 4, 2019
  232. The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
  233. Of Winos and Yogis Aug 26, 2019
  234. The 9 Jhanas of Buddha Aug 22, 2019
  235. Full Moon Ceremony at Heart Space Aug 15, 2019
  236. Yin Yoga - Water Element by Martina Barabas Aug 15, 2019
  237. Hatha Mix Yoga with Christin Aug 13, 2019
  238. Boy Blues Bar Rocks Chiang Mai Aug 5, 2019
  239. Back to my Beloved Chiang Mai Aug 1, 2019
  240. Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
  241. Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
  242. Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
  243. Secret Sunrise: Water July 3, 2019
  244. Hotel Review: Arun Suite June 27, 2019
  245. Bruce Lipton: Epigentics to Transcend Genes June 24, 2019
  246. Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
  247. Connective Cacao and Sound Journey June 12, 2019
  248. Chiangmai BLUES June 6, 2019
  249. Hatha Slow Flow with Neil Jefferson June 3, 2019
  250. Meditating with One Million Meditators Movement June 1, 2019
  251. Vinyasa Happy Flow Series by Vaida May 31, 2019
  252. Muay Thai at the Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium May 30, 2019
  253. Yoga Flow Through the 7 Chakras by Sabrina Pilz May 30, 2019
  254. The Outsiders (people you need to push out of your sacred circle) May 31, 2019
  255. Fascinating Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 22, 2019
  256. World Meditation Day at Heart Space May 21, 2019
  257. Abs Yoga by Gigit May 12, 2019
  258. Kundalini and Vinyasa Yoga with Nicola Symons May 10, 2019
  259. Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
  260. Tok Sen Massage from Ying May 8, 2019
  261. Bruschetta: Nawa Saraan Style Apr 22, 2019
  262. Thai Cooking at Pra Nang Thai Cookery School Apr 20, 2019
  263. Bonding with the Elephants in Chiang Mai Apr 11, 2019
  264. Ziplining in Chiang Mai with Eagle Track Zipline Apr 10, 2019
  265. Getting Thai Massage from Chiang Mai's Best (Lar Thanakrit Khamtanong) Mar 21, 2019
  266. Being the Soul of Nawa Saraan Hotel Mar 18, 2019
  267. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019
  268. Curing Cancer with Yoga? Feb 21, 2019
  269. International Training Massage School (ITM): Level 1 Feb 11-15, 2019
  270. Sandesch Album Launch by Christoph Joerg Feb 13, 2019
  271. Meditation in a Sensory Deprivation Tank at Float Chiang Mai Jan 29, 2019
  272. Reiki Share at the Mastermind Brain Spa Jan 26, 2019
  273. Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
  274. 4 Days in Chiang Mai at Nawa Saraan Hotel Jan 2-6, 2019
  275. Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
  276. An Intimate Conversation with my Universe in Chiang Mai Aug 8, 2018
  277. Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
  278. Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
  279. Yoga Exploration at The Yoga Tree with Gernot Aug 1, 2018
  280. Laughter Yoga with Saffiya Arnous July 31, 2018
  281. Yoga with Adam at Hidden House Yoga, Chiang Mai July 29, 2018
  282. 2 Weeks in Chiang Mai July 25 - Aug 7, 2018
  283. A First Timer in Chiang Mai Apr 9-23, 2016
  284. Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016
  285. Dance Mandala in Chiang Mai at The Yoga Tree Apr 19, 2016
  286. Songkran Waterfight Festival in Chiang Mai Apr 13-15, 2016
  287. Border Crossing from Siem Reap (Cambodia) to Bangkok (Thailand) to Chiang Mai April 9-10, 2016

Travel Tips for Thailand

How to Get a 60-Day Thai Tourist Visa and then Extend by another 30 Days

This process is BEFORE Covid 19. Not sure what it is now.

    60-Day Thai Tourist Visa

    NOTE: There is no need to go back to your country to get the Thai tourist visa. Any major city with a Thai Embassy will do. Apparently there is also no need to have an invitation from a Thai establishment to justify the visa.

  1. Bring the following to the Thai embassy:
    a) proof of money (bank statement will suffice)
    b) flight booking to Thailand
    c) onward flight back to your country from Thailand
    d) filled-in tourist visa form
    e) 2 passport pictures
    f) hotel booking in Thailand (they didn't ask me for this but better be safe)
    g) passport with at least 6 months validity
  2. After handing over all the documents, they will ask you to come pick your passport with the visa the following day from 4 to 5pm. That's it!
  3. NOTE: after 2 successful attempts, I was already questioned the 3rd time.

    30-Day Extension

    NOTE: When your 60-day visa is close to expiry and you want to extend your stay. No need to leave Thailand.

  1. bring the following to the Immigration Office:
    a) passport (make sure your Tourist Visa hasn't expired yet)
    b) Baht 1900
    c) photocopy of your passport + visa duration date stamp + TM6 card (white immigration card) and sign all the copies
    d) completed TM7 visa extension form (available at the Immigration Office)
    e) one 4cmx6cm passport picture
  2. submit the above to the Front Desk. They will give you a stub with your number on it. Take a seat and wait for your number to be called
  3. when your number is called, your picture will be taken. Then go back to your seat. They will call you again.
  4. when they call you again, they'll give you your passport with your extended visa. That's it!
  5. when there are no lines, the whole process can take only 10 minutes
Book Train Tickets in Thailand

Book Train Tickets in Thailand Online by Train36.com

General Travel Tips
  1. arrive early - in case there is a snag (visa snag, documentation snag, transport ticket snag, etc.), you will have ample time to troubleshoot the problem if you arrive early (to the airport, to the bus terminal, etc.)
  2. put detailed itinerary on the Calendar apps of your smart-phone according to timelines - this is where you do all your thinking and planning. Once written down, you don't have to think anymore while you are on the journey...you just follow the steps. This frees your mind for something else that might happen while you are already en route
  3. avoiding scams - as a general rule, I ignore the touts or anyone I don't know who call out to me. The calling comes in many forms - "Hi! Where are you from?", "Excuse me! Excuse me!", "Where are you going?". I don't look them in the eye and I remain non-verbal with them. If you reply to them, you just gave them an 'in' to hound you. In order not to look rude, I smile and wave the 'not interested' hand to them, without looking at them.
  4. power bank - hand-carry your power bank. Do not check it in. You can be called in when you are already inside the plane to go all the way to the loading dock so you can personally remove the power bank...and chances are, you'll have to surrender it to them. And you might delay the plane departure!
Currency Converter
Currency Converter

»» back to Yoga
»» back to Homepage

ARCHIVE: 2023 | JAN | FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JUL | AUG | SEP

1970 | 1973 | 1975 | 1976 | 1979 | 1981 | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | ALL BLOGS