Landscape of Two Pagodas at Sunset in Chiang Mai Thailand

Monk Standing in Front of Doi Suthep Chiang Mai

Karen Girl with a Long Neck in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Travel Guide

January - DecemberThailandTHB

Nightlife & Local Scene

Temples & Pagodas

Wildlife Charity Volunteering

Nicknamed the Rose of the North, Thailand's laid-back second city is a world away from the bright lights & bustle of Bangkok, so if you're looking for a more relaxing vacation away from all the chaos, this is the place to go. Sitting scenically amidst the mountains of northern Thailand on the banks of the Ping River, Chiang Mai often seems untouched by the modern world — there are no skyscrapers and few shopping malls, and the city retains a very traditional Thai feel. There are charming temples on virtually every street, and the city's former status as the seat of the ancient Lanna Kingdom in the 1200s gives it a fascinating history which is explained at the city's various museums. By night, Chiang Mai really comes alive with its superb night bazaars and some of the best street food in the world, let alone Thailand.

Chiang Mai is also the perfect base for adventurous travelers who want to try trekking in the surrounding mountains and rainforests, meeting the colorful local hill tribes in their villages, or encountering elephants at the numerous camps that surround the city. The city's laid-back vibe also makes it the perfect place for relaxation and recharging, and its many boutique and luxury hotels — and countless spas — are the perfect spots to unwind. If you're more into history, check out Chiang Mai's many ancient temples and its historic center, which manages to give off a calm residential air unlike most city centers around the world. There are also numerous cultural experiences, such as Thai massage and cooking classes, so you'll be able to keep the experience alive even after you leave the country and go home. Whatever your travel style may be, you'll be quickly seduced by the diverse and plentiful charms of Chiang Mai.

Must See Attractions in Chiang Mai

Wat Chedi Luang

Chiang Mai's most famous temple dates back to the 14th century, and while the original chedi was halved in height by an earthquake in 1545, it's still an imposing structure. The temple is also home to the original City Pillar, a sacred relic that once marked the center of the Lanna Kingdom and thus the known universe! As you explore Wat Chedi Luang, you can wander around the grounds and visit the many significant structures, including the City Pillar, the main wiharn housing the main Buddha image, and the giant gum tree standing guard over the entrance to the temple.

Wat Phra Singh

Built in 1345 in the classic Lanna style, Wat Phra Singh is arguably the most beautiful temple in the city and is crammed with worshippers on Buddhist holy days. Wat Phra Singh is home to a massive sanctuary decorated with beautiful mosaics, as well as well-manicured gardens, monastic buildings, and pavilions. Its murals and architecture are must-sees for anyone wanting to learn more about Lanna culture and history, and for photographers, it's one of the most photogenic spots in the city. Be sure not to miss Ho Trai, the teak and stucco structure that houses the temple's library.

Doi Suthep

Towering over the city from the north-west, the mountain of Doi Suthep is visible from just about any point in Chiang Mai, and it's a significant part of daily life. In fact, the Thais say that if you haven't seen the view from the peak of Doi Suthep, you haven't actually experienced the city of Chiang Mai. Clearly, it's well worth a visit — not only for the views but for its cultural significance, as well. In addition to boasting a beautiful National Park, its main draw is the stunning Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a golden mountaintop temple that offers spectacular views over the city and the valley below.

Colorful Purse Display at the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai

Night Bazaars

Yes, that's 'bazaars' plural, as Chiang Mai has several, with the daddy of them all happening on a Saturday night, when several downtown streets are transformed into a seemingly endless parade of stalls selling local crafts, clothing and — of course — delicious street food. Every town in Thailand has a night market, but none of them do it as well as Chiang Mai does. As soon as the sun goes down, shoppers will flood several blocks of the city of Chiang Mai to browse for unique gifts, souvenirs, and trinkets. You'll be able to buy almost anything you can think of, but most prices aren't fixed, so be sure to take part in the traditional bargaining & haggling if you want to get the full experience of shopping in Thailand'

Majestic Elephants in the Nature in Chiang Mai

Tong Bai Elephant Foundation

Founded in 2011 and named after the late elephant Tong Bai, this foundation is dedicated to providing a future for the endangered species of Asian elephants. With several ongoing projects whose mission is to conserve the species and the environment while also educating the public, this foundation is well worth your support. Elephants are probably Chiang Mai's most iconic symbol, and at this elephant sanctuary, you can get close to these magnificent creatures while you feed and bathe them, and learn about the foundation's work. You'll also get to visit some scenic countryside and enjoy a delicious lunch of Thai specialties.

Hilltribe Trek

Hill tribe treks are a great way to get a feel for daily life outside the cities of Thailand. While meeting and interacting with the hill tribes is the main focus, you'll also get to go white water rafting, meet shamans, explore caves, ride on bamboo rafts, and much more. The mountains that surround Chiang Mai are home to various hill tribes, including the Hmong and Karen (longneck) tribes. Many remote villages can only be reached on foot, and you'll learn from expert local guides who know the best villages to visit and where you can see authentic hill tribe culture, rather than an ersatz experience laid on for tourists.

Optional Day Trips from Chiang Mai

Doi Suthep National Park

Most people go to Doi Suthep to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, but the mountain is also home to a spectacular 260km2 National Park, which contains tropical forests and numerous animal and bird species. It is also known for the beautiful Mae Sa Valley, offering numerous attractions and activities, including elephant camps, 4x4 adventures, and even an insect zoo! As you climb up to the summits of Doi Suthep and Doi Pui, you’ll be walking through the rainforest up into the clouds. If you’d prefer not to walk, this is also the perfect destination for mountain biking, and the park has its own accommodation for easy access to the trails and routes. Explore the wildlife and waterfalls, peaks and valleys, and much more during your visit to the national park.

Monkey Hanging From Tree in Doi Inthanon Chiang Mai

Doi Inthanon National Park

Named after Thailand’s highest peak, which rises to 8,415ft above sea level, Doi Inthanon is arguably the most beautiful national park in the country and well worth at least a day of your time. Known as the Roof of Thailand, the park is part of the tremendous Himalayan mountain range and boasts waterfalls, wildlife, and a whole lot of jungle for you to discover. Covering almost 500mk2, its vast space takes in waterfalls, mountains, hill tribe villages, rare flora and fauna, and even 40m-deep swimming holes! Absolute heaven for birdwatchers, trekkers, and adventurers of all kinds, be sure to check it out while you’re in the area.