Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Hiring a car
Local costs

Chiang Mai travel guide

Chiang Mai Tourism | Chiang Mai Guide

You're Going to Love Chiang Mai

A popular destination for backpackers and anyone looking for a laid-back vacation, Chiang Mai translates to "new city", the name applied when it was founded in 1296. Chiang Mai is characterized by its ancient walls - of which some remains still stand - that outline the square-shaped layout of the old city, and is surrounded by moats that were once guarded by walls with gates on each side.

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The charm of Chiang Mai lies in its mixture of the past and present, with modern boutique hotels sitting next to ancient temples. The city center is compact and a wander around is recommended to get a real feel for this fascinating place. There are around 300 temples in Chiang Mai, including hidden gems in the city and sacred sites atop mountains just outside the center.

Chiang Mai transforms at night into a shopping wonderland, with market stalls and a plethora of small restaurants and bars. The city sprawls out beyond the moat and offers a wide variety of entertainment venues.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Chiang Mai

1. Stunning Temples

Taking just a few steps away from the buzz of traffic and modern life can transport you into another world. Thanks to the serenity of temple grounds, you can't help but relax and feel at peace. The mountain-top temple at Doi Suthep is a must-see sight, beautifully crafted with picturesque views over the city.

2. Shopping Galore

The Night Bazaar is a bustling hub of market and food stalls. Here you can grab bargain souvenirs and clothes. There are also various shopping malls with a wide range of stores where you can find everything from small bargain buys to top designer brands.

3. Tempting Cuisine

Whether you spend ฿30 at a roadside stall or over ฿2,000 at a French restaurant, such as Farang Ses, dining is a delight in Chiang Mai. A variety of European and Asian cuisines are served around the city, as well as northern Thai specialties, such as khao soi.

4. Adventures in the Country

The countryside surrounding the city lends itself perfectly to adventurous days out. Visit Baan Chang Elephant Park where you can help feed and bathe the elephants, or brave the exhilarating Flight of the Gibbon zip-lining experience.

5. Relaxation at Its Finest

Massage and spas are abundant throughout the city. Try a ฿300 foot massage at night on Loi Kroh Road while you watch the world go by. For a more upscale day of relaxation, hotels and spa resorts, such as the Anantara, offer blissful treatments and facilities, starting at ฿1,000.

1. Stunning Temples

Taking just a few steps away from the buzz of traffic and modern life can transport you into another world. Thanks to the serenity of temple grounds, you can't help but relax and feel at peace. The mountain-top temple at Doi Suthep is a must-see sight, beautifully crafted with picturesque views over the city.

2. Shopping Galore

The Night Bazaar is a bustling hub of market and food stalls. Here you can grab bargain souvenirs and clothes. There are also various shopping malls with a wide range of stores where you can find everything from small bargain buys to top designer brands.

3. Tempting Cuisine

Whether you spend ฿30 at a roadside stall or over ฿2,000 at a French restaurant, such as Farang Ses, dining is a delight in Chiang Mai. A variety of European and Asian cuisines are served around the city, as well as northern Thai specialties, such as khao soi.

4. Adventures in the Country

The countryside surrounding the city lends itself perfectly to adventurous days out. Visit Baan Chang Elephant Park where you can help feed and bathe the elephants, or brave the exhilarating Flight of the Gibbon zip-lining experience.

5. Relaxation at Its Finest

Massage and spas are abundant throughout the city. Try a ฿300 foot massage at night on Loi Kroh Road while you watch the world go by. For a more upscale day of relaxation, hotels and spa resorts, such as the Anantara, offer blissful treatments and facilities, starting at ฿1,000.

What to do in Chiang Mai

1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Golden Mounts

The regal peak of Doi Suthep overlooks Chiang Mai majestically, a fitting location for one of the country's most beloved holy sites. The golden temple Wat Phra That glimmers in the sunlight, surrounded by lush flora and fauna that invites visitors for peaceful exploration. Travel to the iconic landmark with a tuk-tuk, or climb the remarkable walkway that leads pilgrims up the steep, forest-covered mountainside.

2. Doi Inthanon National Park: The Roof of Thailand

The highest peak in Thailand stands west of Chiang Mai in this beautiful National Park overflowing with lush flora, exciting walking trails, gushing waterfalls, and serene sights. The pristine land is a sanctuary for countless unique species, making for a mystical day in nature. Tribal villages also call these lands home, and their communities are also welcoming to foreigners. For ambitious hikers, more natural wonders await beyond the tourist trails.

3. Chiang Mai Old City: Traces of the Past

This ancient city was once walled on all sides, and the remnants of gates and fortifications still stand beside the moat-turned-fountain. Inside, a densely packed maze of wonders beckons: Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple in mysterious ruin, while Wat Phra Singh still stands tall, dazzling and unmissable. On Sundays the Walking Street Market comes alive behind Thapae Gate, featuring not only vendors but also dancers and performers to the delight of locals and tourists alike.

4. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: With the Setting of the Sun

After nightfall, the shopping street of Chang Khlan Road comes alive with vendors and patrons looking for a bargain. These shops choose the cool cover of night to sell all kinds of goods, from electronics to designer clothes. It is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs for tourists as well, and visitors to this street should never be afraid to haggle for whatever they set their sights on. Chiang Mai is a shopping paradise, and this is main street.

5. Elephant Nature Park: Make a Difference

While many travelers to Thailand eagerly await the chance to come face to face with elephants, the Elephant Nature Park is one of few sanctuaries where these dignified giants are treated with care. Not only does a visit to this rehabilitation center fulfill the dream of encountering the beautiful animals, but contributions also promote fair practices in support of this endangered species. Lend your hand as a volunteer; you'll never forget it.

1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Golden Mounts

The regal peak of Doi Suthep overlooks Chiang Mai majestically, a fitting location for one of the country's most beloved holy sites. The golden temple Wat Phra That glimmers in the sunlight, surrounded by lush flora and fauna that invites visitors for peaceful exploration. Travel to the iconic landmark with a tuk-tuk, or climb the remarkable walkway that leads pilgrims up the steep, forest-covered mountainside.

2. Doi Inthanon National Park: The Roof of Thailand

The highest peak in Thailand stands west of Chiang Mai in this beautiful National Park overflowing with lush flora, exciting walking trails, gushing waterfalls, and serene sights. The pristine land is a sanctuary for countless unique species, making for a mystical day in nature. Tribal villages also call these lands home, and their communities are also welcoming to foreigners. For ambitious hikers, more natural wonders await beyond the tourist trails.

3. Chiang Mai Old City: Traces of the Past

This ancient city was once walled on all sides, and the remnants of gates and fortifications still stand beside the moat-turned-fountain. Inside, a densely packed maze of wonders beckons: Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple in mysterious ruin, while Wat Phra Singh still stands tall, dazzling and unmissable. On Sundays the Walking Street Market comes alive behind Thapae Gate, featuring not only vendors but also dancers and performers to the delight of locals and tourists alike.

4. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: With the Setting of the Sun

After nightfall, the shopping street of Chang Khlan Road comes alive with vendors and patrons looking for a bargain. These shops choose the cool cover of night to sell all kinds of goods, from electronics to designer clothes. It is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs for tourists as well, and visitors to this street should never be afraid to haggle for whatever they set their sights on. Chiang Mai is a shopping paradise, and this is main street.

5. Elephant Nature Park: Make a Difference

While many travelers to Thailand eagerly await the chance to come face to face with elephants, the Elephant Nature Park is one of few sanctuaries where these dignified giants are treated with care. Not only does a visit to this rehabilitation center fulfill the dream of encountering the beautiful animals, but contributions also promote fair practices in support of this endangered species. Lend your hand as a volunteer; you'll never forget it.

1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Golden Mounts

The regal peak of Doi Suthep overlooks Chiang Mai majestically, a fitting location for one of the country's most beloved holy sites. The golden temple Wat Phra That glimmers in the sunlight, surrounded by lush flora and fauna that invites visitors for peaceful exploration. Travel to the iconic landmark with a tuk-tuk, or climb the remarkable walkway that leads pilgrims up the steep, forest-covered mountainside.

2. Doi Inthanon National Park: The Roof of Thailand

The highest peak in Thailand stands west of Chiang Mai in this beautiful National Park overflowing with lush flora, exciting walking trails, gushing waterfalls, and serene sights. The pristine land is a sanctuary for countless unique species, making for a mystical day in nature. Tribal villages also call these lands home, and their communities are also welcoming to foreigners. For ambitious hikers, more natural wonders await beyond the tourist trails.

3. Chiang Mai Old City: Traces of the Past

This ancient city was once walled on all sides, and the remnants of gates and fortifications still stand beside the moat-turned-fountain. Inside, a densely packed maze of wonders beckons: Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple in mysterious ruin, while Wat Phra Singh still stands tall, dazzling and unmissable. On Sundays the Walking Street Market comes alive behind Thapae Gate, featuring not only vendors but also dancers and performers to the delight of locals and tourists alike.

4. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: With the Setting of the Sun

After nightfall, the shopping street of Chang Khlan Road comes alive with vendors and patrons looking for a bargain. These shops choose the cool cover of night to sell all kinds of goods, from electronics to designer clothes. It is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs for tourists as well, and visitors to this street should never be afraid to haggle for whatever they set their sights on. Chiang Mai is a shopping paradise, and this is main street.

5. Elephant Nature Park: Make a Difference

While many travelers to Thailand eagerly await the chance to come face to face with elephants, the Elephant Nature Park is one of few sanctuaries where these dignified giants are treated with care. Not only does a visit to this rehabilitation center fulfill the dream of encountering the beautiful animals, but contributions also promote fair practices in support of this endangered species. Lend your hand as a volunteer; you'll never forget it.

Activities & attractions in Chiang Mai

Activities

Custom Spa Packages (1hr 30m to 3hr 15m) - FREE Transportation
Spa / Massage
Thai Harmony Rejuvenation - Ultimate 90-Minute Wellness Retreat
Spa / Massage
Elephant Freedom Project - Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai - Tours Daily
Adventure
Siamaya Chocolate - Chocolate Making Workshop & Factory Tour
Arts & Crafts
Sunshine Massage School - take a traditional Thai massage course
Workshop / Course
Chiang Rai 1 day Package: White, Blue, Red Temples and Tea Plantation
Adventure
Elephant Parade Land: museum, workshop & tour
Arts & Crafts
Wet and Wild - Atv and white water rafting day tour in Chiang Mai
Adventure
Chiang Mai Photo Workshops
Photography
Whitewater Rafting
Adventure
Amara Soap Making Class - a fun+beneficial class for everyone
Arts & Crafts
Jewelry Class, Fun & Beginner Friendly
Arts & Crafts
Chiang Dao Cave & Kayak Adventure
Adventure
Thai cooking class in organic garden with local market tour
Cooking Course
Thai Massage School
Spa / Massage
Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary - Immersive Elephant Program
Adventure

Tours

3 Day Motorcycle Tour (The 1000 corner ride - Mae Hong Son Loop)
Scooter / Motorcycle
Authentic Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai with Cookventure
Culture & Heritage
Chiang Mai Foodie Tours - The original food tour of Chiang Mai
Food & Drink
Authentic Hill Tribe Experience in rural northern Thailand
Private Tour
Chiang Mai City Tour : Unveiling Northern Temple Charms
City Tour
Half-Day Doi Suthep-Pui National Park
Private Tour

Shopping

Baan Celadon - Traditional Thai Ceramics factory tour and showroom
Arts & Crafts
Chiang Mai Gemstone and Fine Jewelry Store
Gifts / Souvenirs
VIP Custom Tailors - Tailored suits for men and women
Clothing & Accessories
Jewelry workshop - custom made jewelry, repairs and Boggy&Thol designs
Arts & Crafts

Other activities

Chiang Mai Golfing - golf at various courses in Chiang Mai
Sports & Fitness•Golf
Siam Dragon Cabaret - Embrace the enchantment of an unforgettable
Art & Performing Arts•Theater
Canyon Wake Park - wakeboarding classes with coach
Sports & Fitness•Water Sports
We do the non tourist trekking only one in Chiangmai
Nature & Outdoor Activities•Hiking / Trekking
Treat Yourself - Yoga & Meditation Experience in Nature
Nature & Outdoor Activities•Outdoors
Sunshine for Elephants, an amazing day with elephants in the jungle
Nature & Outdoor Activities•Animals & Wildlife
Yoga & Meditation Homestay Retreat
Sports & Fitness•Yoga / Pilates
Chiang Mai Coffee Adventure Tour-Trek, Roast, and Brew
Nature & Outdoor Activities•Farm

Where to Eat in Chiang Mai

Food is everywhere in Chiang Mai, from small stalls selling ฿30 meals to family-owned restaurants, such as Aroon Rai, which cost around ฿100 per person. Stalls usually specialize in one dish, such as pad Thai or massaman curry, while restaurants will serve a variety of curries and rice or noodle dishes. Dining at a high-end hotel restaurant like Chili's at the Amora Tapae Hotel will cost closer to ฿1,000 per person for great-quality Thai and international food.

When to visit Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai in September
Estimated hotel price
$89
1 night at 3-star hotel
Chiang Mai in September
Estimated hotel price
$89
1 night at 3-star hotel

The best time to visit Chiang Mai really depends on personal preference for the weather. It is cooler in November to January, but still pleasantly warm during the day, making this the best time to visit. March and April are very hot, and the rainy season is from May to October; this is the low season for tourism.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Chiang Mai

Plane

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is located close to the city center, under three miles to the old city. Taxi is the most convenient way to travel into town, and they are available from outside the terminal and generally cost less than ฿200.

Train

Trains arrive at Chiang Mai Railway Station, which is around three miles east of the city center. Train tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai cost between ฿1,000 and ฿2,000, with seats, sleeper cars, and air conditioning available. A taxi or bus can take you onward to your final destination and should cost less than ฿100.

Car

As a hub in the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai is linked by major roads to surrounding towns and cities, as well as to Bangkok to the southeast. Taxis and rental cars are widely available.

Bus

A bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is faster than the train, but perhaps not as comfortable. Prices are around ฿500-600, and services are operated through the public bus system or companies such as Siam First or Lignite Tour.

Plane

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is located close to the city center, under three miles to the old city. Taxi is the most convenient way to travel into town, and they are available from outside the terminal and generally cost less than ฿200.

Train

Trains arrive at Chiang Mai Railway Station, which is around three miles east of the city center. Train tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai cost between ฿1,000 and ฿2,000, with seats, sleeper cars, and air conditioning available. A taxi or bus can take you onward to your final destination and should cost less than ฿100.

Car

As a hub in the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai is linked by major roads to surrounding towns and cities, as well as to Bangkok to the southeast. Taxis and rental cars are widely available.

Bus

A bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is faster than the train, but perhaps not as comfortable. Prices are around ฿500-600, and services are operated through the public bus system or companies such as Siam First or Lignite Tour.

Airports near Chiang Mai

CEIChiang Rai
CNXChiang Mai
HGNMae Hong Son

Airlines serving Chiang Mai

Lufthansa
Good (7,201 reviews)
KLM
Good (1,365 reviews)
British Airways
Good (7,078 reviews)
Delta
Excellent (7,969 reviews)
SWISS
Good (1,653 reviews)
Turkish Airlines
Good (3,884 reviews)
Air France
Good (1,471 reviews)
Austrian Airlines
Good (807 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (3,282 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (3,596 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (9,654 reviews)
Finnair
Good (1,299 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (1,222 reviews)
Singapore Airlines
Excellent (1,319 reviews)
Cathay Pacific
Good (919 reviews)
Malaysia Airlines
Good (264 reviews)
China Eastern
Good (152 reviews)
Korean Air
Excellent (1,101 reviews)
Japan Airlines
Excellent (1,504 reviews)
Thai Airways
Good (338 reviews)
Show more
Find flights to Chiang Mai

Where to stay in Chiang Mai

The Old City - a great base to start from, the Old City is the center from which everything flows. It's brimming with beautiful architecture and sweet little stores.

Popular Neighborhoods in Chiang Mai

Ping River - the riverside area is lined with restaurants and is illuminated at night, creating beautiful views from the nearby hotels, including 137 Pillars House and Rimping Village.

Suthep/Chang Phueak - to the west of the Old City, this university area has a fun, young vibe and a plethora of shopping malls, bars, and modern restaurants.

Ping River - the riverside area is lined with restaurants and is illuminated at night, creating beautiful views from the nearby hotels, including 137 Pillars House and Rimping Village.
Suthep/Chang Phueak - to the west of the Old City, this university area has a fun, young vibe and a plethora of shopping malls, bars, and modern restaurants.
Most popular hotel in Chiang Mai by neighbourhood

Where to stay in popular areas of Chiang Mai

Most booked hotels in Chiang Mai

See all
U Nimman Chiang Mai
5 stars
Excellent (9.2, Excellent reviews)
$136+
View
Meliá Chiang Mai
5 stars
Excellent (9.2, Excellent reviews)
$190+
View
Shangri-La Chiang Mai
5 stars
Excellent (8.8, Excellent reviews)
$182+
View

How to Get Around Chiang Mai

Public Transportation

Chiang Mai has a great transport system comprising mainly of songthaews. These converted pickup trucks are not officially public transport, yet work like public buses. They can be flagged down anywhere and you tell the driver where you want to go; they may or may not pick up other passengers on the way. Prices are around ฿50.

Taxi

Taxis are widely available throughout the city, including metered cars, three-wheeled tuk-tuks, and songthaews, which are a combination of public bus and taxi. Prices usually start at ฿50.

Car

Rental cars are available from the airport from chains such as Budget and Sixt and generally cost around ฿1,800 per day. Public transport, affordable taxi options, and tour buses make renting a car unnecessary. Chiang Mai is a small but busy city, therefore parking is often difficult to find outside of shopping malls and larger restaurants.

Public Transportation

Chiang Mai has a great transport system comprising mainly of songthaews. These converted pickup trucks are not officially public transport, yet work like public buses. They can be flagged down anywhere and you tell the driver where you want to go; they may or may not pick up other passengers on the way. Prices are around ฿50.

Taxi

Taxis are widely available throughout the city, including metered cars, three-wheeled tuk-tuks, and songthaews, which are a combination of public bus and taxi. Prices usually start at ฿50.

Car

Rental cars are available from the airport from chains such as Budget and Sixt and generally cost around ฿1,800 per day. Public transport, affordable taxi options, and tour buses make renting a car unnecessary. Chiang Mai is a small but busy city, therefore parking is often difficult to find outside of shopping malls and larger restaurants.

Find car hire in Chiang Mai

The Cost of Living in Chiang Mai

Shopping Streets

Loi Kroh Road and the Night Bazaar are filled with small stores and stalls selling clothes, books, and trinkets. Prices start at around ฿50. The Saturday night "walking street" market on Wua Lai Road is great for finding silver jewelry made by local craftsmen. Robinson Central Airport is a huge shopping mall on the outskirts of the city where prices are a little higher, starting at ฿100 for small items and going up to the thousands for designer goods.

Groceries and Other

Tops, Rimping, and Big C are the main supermarkets, selling both Thai and foreign food. Prices are around the same as in the US and slightly cheaper for local Thai produce. Fresh fruit can be purchased from many stalls at the side of the road, starting from only ฿20.

Cheap meal
$2.19
A pair of jeans
$114.29
Single public transport ticket
$0.87
Cappuccino
$2.57

Everything you need to know for your stay in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Chiang Mai city guide for the best Chiang Mai travel tips. To help you organise your Chiang Mai trip ideas, this Chiang Mai visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.