CHIANG MAI AT A GLANCE
CITY
Chiang Mai (เชียงใหม่)
COUNTRY
TIMEZONE
UTC+7 (ICT)
TRAIN
None
BUS
Chiang Mai City Bus Transport Company - Limited Routes (฿30 THB / $0.83 USD)
TERRAIN
Urban Tropics / Small City, Mountainous in the West
WEATHER
Cool Season: 59ºF - 86ºF November to February / Hot Season: 95ºF+ March to May / Monsoon Season: 77ºF - 90ºF and Rainy June to October
AVERAGE MEAL COST
฿120 THB / $3.33 USD
AVERAGE HOSTEL COST
฿250 THB / $6.94 USD
LAST UPDATED
12/10/2023
The Best Bites in Chiang Mai, Thailand
LANDSCAPE
NOTABLE FEATURES
Chiang Mai, the enchanting city in northern Thailand, is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, lush natural surroundings, and a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. This charming city is renowned for its ancient temples, including the iconic Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, each a testament to the historical and artistic richness of the region. Chiang Mai is also known for its vibrant markets, such as the Sunday Night Market and the bustling Night Bazaar, where visitors can explore local handicrafts, savor delectable street food, and enjoy traditional performances. Beyond its cultural appeal, the city is a gateway to Thailand's natural wonders, with lush rainforests, serene waterfalls, and the towering Doi Inthanon, the country's highest peak. Chiang Mai's unique atmosphere, with a welcoming and laid-back charm, makes it a destination where travelers can experience the essence of Northern Thai culture and create lasting memories.
TRAVELER'S NOTES
All the Best Activities
Chiang Mai is a smaller sized city in Northern Thailand known for its temples, outdoors activities, and old town center. Being a popular tourist destination, Chiang Mai can be more expensive. Expect to pay a bit more than smaller Thai towns with an emphasis on tourist packages which offer a stress free way to enjoy what Chiang Mai has to offers for a price. Some of the best free activities I have found in Chiang Mai were visiting the night market on the Ping River, the Sunday Night Market in the Old Town, and hiking up to the mountain markets via the Monk's trail. Many temples in Thailand have a cost to visit. However, Wat Pha Lat in Chiang Mai offers gorgeous jungle, city, and temple views for free. Good food can be found for a cheap price on the far west side of the city around Chiang Mai university on Suthep Rd.Places to Stay
How much you enjoy Chiang Mai is usually based on who you meet there. I recommend getting a hostel on the East side of the city to meet other backpackers and enjoy the markets. Booking near the Tha Phae Gate gives you great access to the night markets and the amazing nightlife of the city, while staying close to the old quarters. Tours and onwards transportation can be booked from most hostels with an additional small fee.Digital Nomad Life
Chiang Mai is very popular with digital nomads. The western side of the city, near Chiang Mai university, offers many co-working spaces and a more business and education centered energy.The Monk's Trail
The Monk's Trail was my most memorable activity in Chiang Mai by far. I spent a whole day walking to the base of the trail (1.5h), hiking up to Wat Pha Lat (a temple you can only reach on foot), and then followed the trails up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and the surrounding village. By the time I made it to the top, I was exhausted and took a break to enjoy local street market treats. Hitting up the cheap restaurants surrounding Chiang Mai university for 65 THB / $1.82 USD katsu udon and 25 THB / $0.70 USD milk tea was a real treat on the way back down.ACTIVITIES
Popular Activities
Doi Suthep Temple: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a mountain, is not only a spiritual site but also a masterpiece of Thai architecture. The panoramic views from the temple's terrace provide an unforgettable perspective of Chiang Mai.
Old City Temples: Chiang Mai's historic temples, such as Wat Phra Singh, showcase the city's rich cultural heritage with their intricately carved facades and serene courtyards, making them a window into the region's history.
Sunday Walking Street: The Sunday Night Market is a sensory delight, with stalls offering handmade crafts, traditional food, and live performances, creating a lively atmosphere that's perfect for immersing yourself in local culture.
Elephant Nature Park: This sanctuary provides a responsible and compassionate way to interact with rescued elephants, allowing you to learn about their stories and conservation efforts.
Doi Inthanon National Park: As Thailand's highest peak, Doi Inthanon offers not only the thrill of reaching its summit but also the chance to explore the park's waterfalls, royal pagodas, and rich biodiversity.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: The Night Bazaar is a shopper's paradise, offering an array of goods from souvenirs to textiles and street food, creating a bustling evening market scene.
Chiang Rai Day Trip: A visit to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai allows you to see the distinctive White Temple and the ethereal Blue Temple, both architectural wonders.
Chiang Mai Zoo: The zoo houses a diverse collection of animals, including the beloved pandas, providing an opportunity for both education and leisure.
Chiang Mai Grand Canyon: This water park offers a fun escape, with activities like cliff jumping, swimming, and relaxing by the water, making it a great option for a day of adventure.
Mae Sa Waterfall: Trekking through the lush Mae Sa Valley to reach these waterfalls is a refreshing nature experience, with multiple tiers to explore.
Mon Cham: This serene village offers a chance to immerse yourself in hill-tribe culture, with panoramic mountain views that create a tranquil atmosphere.
Doi Pui Hmong Village: In this Hmong hill-tribe village, you can gain insight into traditional customs, purchase handcrafted goods, and enjoy a taste of local culture.
Zip-lining Adventures: Chiang Mai's lush rainforest offers an exhilarating backdrop for zip-lining, allowing you to soar through the treetops and experience the region's natural beauty from a unique perspective.
Thai Cooking Classes: Learning to cook traditional Thai dishes provides an authentic and delectable way to engage with the local culture.
Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls: These unique waterfalls allow you to climb their mineral-rich tiers without slipping, providing a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival: If visiting in February, this festival is a visual feast of colorful blooms and elaborate floral displays, celebrating Chiang Mai's natural beauty.
Wat U Mong: The tranquil environment of Wat U Mong, with its ancient tunnels and lush surroundings, offers a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle.
Chiang Mai Art in Paradise: This 3D art museum allows you to step into creative, interactive artworks, capturing fun and memorable photos with optical illusions.
Lanna Folklife Museum: The museum provides a fascinating journey through the history and culture of Northern Thailand, showcasing the heritage of the Lanna Kingdom.
Kawila Boxing Stadium: Experience the excitement of Muay Thai in a traditional setting, witnessing fierce matches and the sport's deep cultural significance in Thailand
Underrated Destinations
Take a Meditation Retreat: Chiang Mai's serene surroundings make it an ideal place for meditation retreats, with experienced teachers guiding participants in mindfulness and inner exploration.
Baan Kang Wat Artist Village: This creative community showcases local artists and their unique works, including paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts, in a peaceful and inspirational setting.
Explore the Hidden Temples of Wiang Kum Kam: A lesser-visited historical site, Wiang Kum Kam features ancient temples and archaeological treasures that tell the story of Chiang Mai's early history.
Participate in a Monk Chat: Engage in meaningful conversations with Buddhist monks to gain insight into their way of life, philosophy, and spirituality at various temples in Chiang Mai.
Hike the Monk's Trail to Wat Pha Lat: Hiking the Monk's Trail to Wat Pha Lat in Chiang Mai is a tranquil and scenic journey. This moderate hike takes you through the lush forest, leading to a hidden jungle temple known for its serene atmosphere and stunning mountain vistas.
Hike to the Mae Ngat Dam Floating Houses: Few tourists venture to this scenic reservoir surrounded by lush forests and floating bamboo houses, providing an off-the-beaten-path adventure with opportunities for swimming and relaxation.
NEIGHBORHOODS
Old City: The historical core of Chiang Mai is enclosed by a square-shaped moat and remnants of the old city wall. This area is often referred to as the "Old City" and is characterized by narrow streets, historic temples, and traditional architecture. It's a popular tourist destination.
Riverside: The Ping River runs through the eastern part of the city. You'll find several hotels, restaurants, and markets along the riverside, offering scenic views and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Nimmanhaemin Road: Known simply as "Nimman," this trendy area lies to the west of the Old City. It's famous for its modern, bohemian vibe, with numerous boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Outer Suburbs: Beyond the Old City, Chiang Mai has expanded into a sprawling urban area with numerous neighborhoods and suburbs. This is where you'll find a mix of residential areas, shopping centers, and local markets.
Mountains: Chiang Mai is surrounded by picturesque mountains, making it a gateway to outdoor activities. The western part of the city offers access to the lush green hills and mountains, with opportunities for trekking, wildlife exploration, and cultural visits to hill tribes.