Things To Do
in Chiang Mai
Nestled among the mountains of northern Thailand, this city is a blend of historical charm and modern innovation, known for its serene temples, vibrant markets, and the scenic beauty of its landscapes. It serves as a cultural hub, displaying an array of traditional and contemporary arts, cuisines, and festivals, including the famous lantern release during Yi Peng.
Beyond its urban allure, Chiang Mai offers adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts numerous opportunities for trekking, visiting elephant sanctuaries, and exploring lush national parks.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting Wat Phra Singh, known for its exquisite Lanna architecture. Take time to appreciate the intricate details and peaceful atmosphere.
Head to Wat Chedi Luang, where you can climb up to see the ancient ruins. Enjoy some local snacks from nearby vendors while exploring the area.
In the evening, check out the Night Bazaar for shopping and delicious Thai street food. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants offering a lively ambiance.
Visit Doi Inthanon National Park to see Thailand's highest peak and breathtaking waterfalls. The cool air and stunning scenery will refresh your spirit.
Take a hike to the beautiful Wachiratharn Waterfall and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. This serene location is perfect for some relaxation.
Return to the city and enjoy a riverside dinner with stunning views of the riverlights. After dinner, consider a traditional Thai massage to unwind.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and numerous temples
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including mountains and parks
- Affordable cost of living compared to other cities
- Great food scene, featuring both local and international cuisine
- Friendly and welcoming locals
- Vibrant expatriate community and social scene
- Pleasant climate, especially during the cooler months
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours
- Air quality can be poor, especially during burning season
- Limited public transportation options
- Some areas may experience tourist overcrowding
- Opportunities for high-paying jobs may be limited
- Healthcare services may vary in quality, particularly outside city center
- Language barrier can be a challenge for non-Thai speakers
Best Activities in Chiang Mai
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore Thailand's highest peak, cloud forests, waterfalls, and exotic bird species.
Contribute to elephant conservation, observe these majestic animals, and enjoy a unique experience.
Experience an adrenaline rush and breathtaking views while ziplining through the lush jungle canopy.
Discover the rich history and culture of Chiang Mai by visiting ancient temples and picturesque sites in the old city.
Tours
Uncover the best of Chiang Mai with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Chiang Mai
Visit one of these nice places.
A mountain near Chiang Mai with a beautiful temple and stunning views of the city
A historic temple with intricate architecture and picturesque surroundings
A serene lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for nature and landscape photography
Food in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved northern Thai noodle dish with a creamy coconut curry broth, topped with crispy egg noodles. For an authentic experience, visit the renowned Khao Soi Islam or Khao Soi Lam Duan Fah Ham.
Must-Try!
A flavorful Burmese-influenced pork curry made with a distinctive blend of spices. Try this dish at Huen Muan Jai or Tong Tem Toh for a delightful rendition.
A spicy dip prepared with roasted green chilies and served with an assortment of fresh vegetables. Head to local markets or restaurants like Huan Soontaree to savor this classic dip.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Chiang Mai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local produce, street food stalls, and traditional snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to sample a wide array of street food delights such as sai ua (northern Thai sausage) and khao kha moo (stewed pork leg).
A vibrant street market offering an abundance of delectable street food options, including grilled skewers, fresh fruit smoothies, crispy fried chicken, and delectable mango sticky rice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Thailand holds its royal family in high regard. It's important to show respect and refrain from any disrespectful remarks or behavior towards the royal family.
It's customary to take off your shoes before entering someone's home or a temple as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Avoid pointing your feet at people or religious objects, and refrain from public displays of affection, as these may be considered disrespectful in Thai culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Chiang Mai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Chiang Mai
Ensure a smooth experience
In Chiang Mai, tipping is not a common practice, especially at local food stalls and small restaurants. However, in higher-end restaurants and hotels, a service charge of 10% may be included in the bill. Additional tipping is appreciated but not expected.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Chiang Mai, especially in local markets and small shops. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller transactions. ATMs are easily accessible for withdrawing Thai baht.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Chiang Mai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the peak tourist season in Chiang Mai, with cool and dry weather. Expect crowded tourist attractions and higher prices for accommodations and tours.
Hot and dry weather prevails during this period. The city experiences higher temperatures, but it's a great time to experience the Songkran water festival in April.
This period brings heavy rainfall, but it also results in lush greenery and fewer crowds. It's a good time for budget travelers to visit Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai at Night
Hiking in Chiang Mai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to Thailand's highest peak, Doi Inthanon National Park offers a variety of hiking trails, lush forest, waterfalls, and stunning views.
This park features trails leading to Doi Suthep, where you can find the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple and enjoy panoramic views of Chiang Mai.
Known for its diverse landscapes and rich wildlife, Mae Wang offers several trekking opportunities including visits to local hill tribe villages.
Famous for its limestone mountains, Chiang Dao National Park features hiking trails that lead to caves and viewpoints, as well as opportunities for birdwatching.
A peaceful spot with beautiful mountain views, Huai Nam Dang has multiple hiking trails, ideal for both novice and experienced trekkers.
While primarily known for its unique waterfalls, this area also offers hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the surrounding nature and enjoy the scenic views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Chiang Mai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Chiang Mai by plane.
Bangkok's main international airport, located approximately 700 km from Chiang Mai. It is one of the busiest airports in Southeast Asia.
Another major airport in Bangkok, located roughly 700 km from Chiang Mai. It mostly serves low-cost airlines and domestic flights.
Located about 1,200 km south of Chiang Mai, it serves as a major gateway to the popular tourist destination of Phuket.
Located approximately 180 km from Chiang Mai, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Situated around 900 km from Chiang Mai, this airport primarily serves flights to and from the island of Koh Samui.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Chiang Mai, consisting mainly of Thai people who are culturally influenced by Lanna traditions.
A significant minority group with a long history in the region, contributing to commerce and cultural diversity.
Individuals from Myanmar who have migrated for work or refuge, adding to the multicultural aspect of Chiang Mai.
Various indigenous groups such as the Karen, Hmong, and Lahu, living in the mountainous regions around Chiang Mai.
A growing population of foreign nationals, particularly from Europe and North America, residing in Chiang Mai for work or retirement.
Includes populations from neighboring countries such as Laos and Vietnam, contributing to the area's ethnic tapestry.
The Soul of Chiang Mai
Discover the essence of Chiang Mai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art and combat sport from Thailand, known for its striking techniques using punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes.
The most popular team sport in Thailand, with many local clubs and community engagement, especially within schools and universities.
A widely played racket sport in Thailand, often organized at educational institutions and local clubs, with a growing competitive scene.
A traditional sport native to Southeast Asia, similar to volleyball but using a rattan ball, in which players use their feet, head, knees, and chest to hit the ball over a net.
A popular individual and doubles sport in Chiang Mai, with numerous courts and clubs available for both recreational play and competitive tournaments.
An increasingly popular recreational and competitive activity, with many scenic routes and events catered to both locals and tourists.
A widely embraced activity among the community, with various running clubs and organized events such as marathons and fun runs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chiang Mai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Chiang Mai boasts numerous vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries, including Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant and Pun Pun Organic Vegetarian Restaurant, where visitors can relish an array of plant-based delights.
Several restaurants and cafes in Chiang Mai are attuned to gluten-free preferences, offering dishes such as larb moo kua (spicy minced pork salad), yum pla duk fu (crispy catfish salad), and more, using gluten-free ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Chiang Mai with these cultural adventures.
