Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, is a city that enchants visitors with its perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern charm. Founded in 1296 as the capital of the Lanna Kingd...
Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, is a city that enchants visitors with its perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern charm. Founded in 1296 as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, this walled city is home to over 300 Buddhist temples, each telling stories of the region's rich history.
Beyond the temples, Chiang Mai offers world-renowned Thai cooking classes, ethical elephant sanctuaries, vibrant night markets, and stunning mountain scenery. The cooler climate, friendly locals, and laid-back atmosphere make it a favorite destination for everyone from backpackers to digital nomads. Whether you're climbing the 309 steps to Doi Suthep, bargaining at the Sunday Walking Street market, or learning to cook authentic Khao Soi, Chiang Mai promises an authentic Thai experience unlike anywhere else.
Why Visit Chiang Mai?
Rich Culture
Ancient temples and traditions
Amazing Food
World-class street food scene
Historic Sites
UNESCO World Heritage landmarks
Vibrant Life
24/7 energy and entertainment
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Chiang Mai's most sacred temple, perched 1,055 meters above the city on Doi Suthep mountain. The golden chedi contains a relic of Buddha and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city below. Legend says a white elephant chose this location by climbing the mountain and trumpeting three times before dying.
Visitor Tips
- Climb the 309-step Naga staircase or take the cable car
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Dress modestly - cover shoulders and knees
Chiang Mai Old City
The historic heart of Chiang Mai, enclosed by ancient walls and a moat dating back to the 13th century. Within the square-kilometer area are dozens of historic temples, traditional wooden houses, boutique cafes, and the famous Sunday Walking Street market.
Visitor Tips
- Rent a bicycle to explore - the area is very bike-friendly
- Visit Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Chiang Man
- The Sunday Walking Street runs along Rachadamnoen Road
Elephant Nature Park
A world-renowned ethical elephant sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates elephants from tourism and logging industries. Visitors can observe elephants in their natural habitat, feed them, and learn about conservation efforts without riding.
Visitor Tips
- Book well in advance - this is a popular experience
- Full-day visits include lunch and transportation
- No elephant riding - observe and feed only
Night Bazaar
A sprawling night market along Chang Khlan Road that operates every evening. Shop for handicrafts, clothing, artwork, and souvenirs while enjoying street food and live entertainment. The perfect place to practice your bargaining skills.
Visitor Tips
- Open every evening from around 6 PM to midnight
- Bargain respectfully - start at 50-60% of asking price
- Try the food stalls at Anusarn Market nearby
Thai Cooking Class
Chiang Mai is famous for its cooking schools offering hands-on classes where you learn to prepare authentic Thai dishes. Most classes start with a market tour to select fresh ingredients, then teach 4-6 dishes including curry pastes from scratch.
Visitor Tips
- Book a morning class that includes market visit
- Popular schools include Thai Farm Cooking and Pantawan Cooking
- Vegetarian and vegan options widely available
Doi Inthanon National Park
Home to Thailand's highest peak at 2,565 meters, this national park features stunning waterfalls, nature trails, hill tribe villages, and the twin royal pagodas. The park's cooler climate supports unique flora and bird species.
Visitor Tips
- About 90 minutes drive from Chiang Mai city
- Bring warm clothing - it's much cooler at the summit
- Visit Wachirathan and Siriphum waterfalls
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Plan your visit with our detailed weather guide
November - February
The best time to visit with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Mountain areas can get quite cold at night. Perfect weather for outdoor activities and temple visits.
March - May
Hot and dry with occasional haze from agricultural burning (burning season). Songkran festival in April brings water fights and celebrations.
June - October
Monsoon season brings afternoon showers and lush green landscapes. Fewer tourists and lower prices. Waterfalls at their most impressive.
Local Tips & Insights
Insider knowledge to make your trip smoother
Try Khao Soi, the signature Northern Thai curry noodle soup - Khao Soi Mae Sai is a local favorite
Rent a motorbike to explore but be careful - traffic can be chaotic and international license is technically required
Participate in a monk chat at Wat Chedi Luang - monks practice English while sharing Buddhist teachings
Sunday Walking Street is better than Night Bazaar for authentic crafts and local atmosphere
Book elephant sanctuary visits directly with ethical operators - avoid any place offering riding
Bring layers for cool season evenings and Doi Inthanon visits - it can get genuinely cold
Stay in Old City for temples and walking street, Nimman for cafes and nightlife
Burning season (Feb-April) can cause air quality issues - check AQI before outdoor activities
Transportation
Everything you need to know about getting around
Airport
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) - 4km from city center, Thailand's fourth busiest airport with domestic and international flights.
Taxi & Ride-sharing
Metered taxis less common than Bangkok. Use Grab or negotiate with songthaews and tuk-tuks.
Car Rental
Motorbike rental popular and easy. Car rental available for exploring outside city.
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Doi Suthep Temple & Hmong Village Tour
Half-day tour to Chiang Mai's most sacred temple with stops at Hmong hill tribe village
Elephant Nature Park Full Day
Ethical elephant experience with feeding, bathing, and learning about elephant conservation
Extend your journey
Experience local culture
Yi Peng Lantern Festival
November (full moon of the 12th lunar month)
Thousands of sky lanterns are released into the night sky, creating a magical floating constellation. One of Thailand's most spectacular festivals.
Citywide, especially Mae Jo and Old City
Songkran (Thai New Year)
April 13-15
The world's biggest water fight! Chiang Mai's celebrations around the moat are among Thailand's most enthusiastic.
Old City moat area and Tha Phae Gate
Loy Krathong
November (same time as Yi Peng)
Festival of lights where decorated floats are released on waterways. Combines with Yi Peng for double celebration.
Ping River and city canals