Chiang Mai

Thailand

Chiang Mai invites you to explore its rich history and vibrant culture, which blend seamlessly in every corner of the city. Founded in 1296 as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, it boasts ancient temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, offering breathtaking views and spiritual insight. As you wander through the bustling night markets, you’ll encounter an array of local delicacies, from spicy curries to sweet mango sticky rice that will have your taste buds dancing. Have you ever tried bargaining for a handmade souvenir while sipping a cup of locally grown coffee? The city’s friendly locals often share stories about their traditions, giving you a glimpse into their lives. With its unique festivals, like Yi Peng, where lanterns fill the sky, Chiang Mai beckons you to create unforgettable memories and dive deeper into its enchanting atmosphere.
  • Population
    127,240
  • Area
    40.2 km²
  • Average Temperature
    25°C
  • Official Language
    Thai
  • Current Time
    03:02
Plan your activity

What to do in Chiang Mai?

Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Group Tour

White Temple Black House and Blue Temple

Cooking Class, Market and Thai Herbs Garden Tour

Doi Inthanon National Park and Pha Dok Siew Trek
View all activities in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Weather

What's the weather like in Chiang Mai?

In Chiang Mai, the weather is like a well-prepared Thai curry: a little spicy and full of surprises! The city enjoys a tropical climate, with a dry season from November to February that gifts visitors with cool, crisp mornings and pleasantly warm afternoons—perfect for wandering its ancient temples without breaking a sweat. Come March, the heat cranks up, and the infamous "haze season" arrives, leaving you to ponder if the sunsets are more beautiful or just smoke-filled. Monsoon season rolls in around May, drenching the city in refreshing downpours, turning the landscape into a lush paradise, while the occasional thunderstorm can make you think twice about that outdoor café you spotted. So pack your umbrella and sunscreen—Chiang Mai’s weather is a delightful mix of sunshine, rain, and the occasional surprise!
Chiang Mai Weather
Chiang Mai tips

Must do's and try's in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a treasure trove of flavors, traditions, and experiences that whisk you away from the tourist traps and into the heart of local life. If you're ready to ditch the guidebook and dive into the vibrant culture, you're in for a real treat—both for your taste buds and your Instagram feed!

  • Khao Soi: This creamy coconut curry noodle soup is a bowl of happiness. With its rich flavors and crispy noodle topping, it's like a warm hug in a bowl. Pair it with a side of pickled veggies, and you’ll be begging for a second serving—trust us, your waistline won’t judge!
  • Yi Peng Lantern Festival: Experience the magic of this enchanting festival where the night sky comes alive with floating lanterns. It’s like a Pinterest board exploded, but in the best way possible. Just make sure your lantern doesn’t end up in a tree—unless you want to be the local laughingstock!
  • Wat Umong: A hidden gem just outside the city, this ancient temple features a network of tunnels and a serene lake. Perfect for reflective selfies or pretending to be a monk for a day. Bonus: the resident squirrels might just become your new best friends!
  • Cooking Class with Locals: Forget the overpriced cooking schools! Join a local family in their home, where you’ll learn to make dishes like mango sticky rice. Just don’t be surprised if they critique your chopping skills—family gatherings can be brutally honest!

With these experiences, Chiang Mai transforms from a mere destination into a delightful journey through local life, flavors, and traditions. Get ready to dive in and savor every moment!

Sightseeing in Chiang Mai

  • Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
  • Nimmanhaemin Road
  • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
  • Elephant Nature Park
  • Wat Chedi Luang
  • Sunday Walking Street Market
  • Zip-lining through the jungle (hold on to your snacks!)
Where to go?

The best areas in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a treasure trove of unique travel areas that offer a delightful mix of culture, cuisine, and charm. While the city itself is a wonder, venturing out to these specific districts and villages gives you an extra dose of local flavor—because who doesn’t want to sip coffee with a view of ancient temples and maybe a wandering elephant or two?

Nimmanhaemin

This hip district is where creativity meets caffeine. With its trendy cafes, art galleries, and vibrant night markets, Nimmanhaemin is the place to be if you want to feel like a local yet look like a tourist. Just try not to take too many selfies while sipping that artisan latte!

San Kamphaeng

Famous for its hot springs and handicrafts, San Kamphaeng is like a giant craft fair that exploded with creativity. Here, you can indulge in a relaxing soak or pick up a unique souvenir—perfect for that friend who needs a little “I thought of you” gift after your trip. Just be careful not to bring back too many ceramic elephants!

Doi Suthep

Home to the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, this area offers stunning views and a spiritual experience—just be prepared for the trek! The legend says that if you don’t visit this temple, you might end up with a bad case of FOMO. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Hang Dong

Nature lovers, rejoice! Hang Dong is a serene escape from the bustling city, filled with lush green spaces and beautiful waterfalls. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic—just make sure to pack your lunch and not your worries. After all, who wants to carry stress when you can carry a picnic basket instead?

Mae Rim

If adventure is your middle name, Mae Rim is calling! This area is packed with outdoor activities like zip-lining, white-water rafting, and even elephant sanctuaries. Just remember, the only thing that should be flying is you—preferably through the air on that zip line, not on a bumpy elephant ride!