In this guide
Chiang Mai, Thailand's laid-back northern capital, is surrounded by mountains and filled with more than a hundred temples. It's cooler than Bangkok, famous for food and crafts, and a gateway to hill country.
The Old City and its temples
The square Old City, ringed by a moat and remains of old walls, is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle.
- Wat Phra Singh: one of the most revered temples in the north, with classic Lanna architecture.
- Wat Chedi Luang: the huge ruined chedi is especially atmospheric at dusk; some temples offer "monk chats" with young monks.
- Wat Phan Tao: a beautiful teak temple next door.
Doi Suthep
The golden Wat Phra That Doi Suthep sits on a mountain overlooking the city, reached by road and a staircase of around 300 steps flanked by naga serpents. Combine it with Bhubing Palace gardens or a hike through Doi Suthep–Pui National Park.
Markets and food
- Sunday Walking Street on Ratchadamnoen Road and the Saturday Walking Street on Wualai Road: crafts, food and live music.
- Night Bazaar for souvenirs every evening.
- Warorot Market for local snacks and spices.
- Try khao soi, a rich coconut curry noodle soup, and sai oua, northern Thai sausage.
- A Thai cooking class, often on an organic farm outside town, is one of Chiang Mai's best experiences.
Nature and elephants
- Ethical elephant sanctuaries: choose observation-only experiences without riding or shows.
- Doi Inthanon National Park: Thailand's highest mountain, with waterfalls, twin royal pagodas and cool-weather trails.
- Sticky Waterfall (Bua Tong): limestone that you can climb barefoot.
Day trips and beyond
- Chiang Rai: the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Blue Temple and Golden Triangle, as a long day trip or overnight.
- Pai: a mountain town of canyons, hot springs and cafés, reached by a winding road with hundreds of bends.
When to go
November to February is cool and dry, perfect for exploring. The Yi Peng lantern festival, around the November full moon alongside Loy Krathong, is magical but very busy. The rainy season (June to October) is green and quieter.
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is close to the city, with frequent flights from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports and some international routes. The overnight train from Bangkok is a scenic alternative.
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Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Chiang Mai?
Three to four days lets you see the Old City temples, Doi Suthep, a night market, a cooking class and an elephant sanctuary. Add more for Chiang Rai or Pai.
How do you choose an ethical elephant sanctuary?
Choose places that don't offer riding, bathing shows or performances, keep groups small and let elephants roam. Read recent reviews and look for sanctuaries focused on observation and care.
When should you avoid Chiang Mai?
Many travellers avoid roughly March to early April, when smoke from agricultural burning can cause poor air quality in northern Thailand.
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