The capital of Thailand’s culture- and nature-rich northern province, Chiang Mai is worlds away from Bangkok’s buzz and the south’s white-sand beaches. Encircled by jungle-clad mountains inhabited by indigenous communities, the “Rose of the North” serves up sacred temples, golden pagodas, and some of the country’s—if not the region’s—best cuisine, cooked fresh by street-side vendors. Plus, you’ll find some of the best things to do in Chiang Mai just outside the city limits, including the temples of Chiang Rai, the lush hiking trails of Doi Inthanon National Park, and the rugged canyons of Pai.
The best months to visit Chiang Mai are between November and January, when the humidity is more manageable and there’s a smaller chance of downpours derailing your plans. Try to avoid visiting the city in either February or March, when what’s known as “Burning Season” takes place. During this time, farmers burn their fields to prepare the land for the following year, and the resulting smoke causes a sharp decrease in air quality and much lower visibility.
Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Grab are prevalent in Chiang Mai, and while they may be the most convenient, they’re far from the most exciting way to get around. For a taste of local life, flag down a signature red songthaew, a pickup truck that serves as a shared taxi. Routes are generally customizable, and you don’t have to hop on board at designated stops, making them a fast and flexible way to explore. Or jump in a tuk-tuk, the iconic three-wheeled vehicles offer a bumpy but memorable experience.
Best known by locals as the “Sticky Waterfall,” Nam Tok Bua Tong is a geological marvel located only 45 minutes from the center of Chiang Mai. Arrive in time for its early morning opening and you should have the waterfall all to yourself. Climb the non-slip limestone rocks, watch the water bubble up from natural springs, and enjoy a relaxing respite from the crowds of the Old City.
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An ancient walled city that’s the travel capital of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for monks and temples, including 15th-century Wat Chedi Luang, mountainside Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Suan Dok, which has a Buddhist university. Other things to do in Chiang Mai include hill tribe trekking, traditional crafts, and the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.
...MoreYou need at least three days to tick off all the things to do in Chiang Mai, and longer if you plan a multi-day hike. Over three days, you can sample northern Thai cuisine like khao soi (a Thai curry noodle soup); take a cooking class; explore Buddhist temples, monasteries, and perhaps a museum; shop the night markets; and take in views from Doi Suthep.
...MoreDating back to the 13th century, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep sits just below the 5,499-foot (1,676-meter) summit of Mt. Suthep (Doi Suthep). One of Thailand’s most sacred temples, it offers sweeping views across the city. Many tours add in a national park hike and/or a visit to a Hmong village.
...MoreYes. This historic riverside city is a must-visit for lovers of Thai culture thanks to its ancient temples, rich traditions, colorful crafts, unique cuisine, and dramatic surroundings. It’s also a great jump-off point for exploring more of northern Thailand, such as Chiang Rai, Pai, and Mae Hong Son.
...MoreMany temples are free to visit. Wat Suan Dok runs a regular “Monk Chat” program where travelers can meet trainee monks and learn about their lives, while the Monk’s Trail hike to Wat Pha Lat is magical. Free galleries include Chiang Mai University Art Center and Gallery Seescape.
...MoreYes. It’s rare for foreign travelers to experience violent crime in Chiang Mai, although pickpocketing, bag snatching, and ATM skimming are not unknown. It’s worth being aware of Thailand’s strict lèse-majesté law, which prohibits criticism of the monarchy. Avoid making political comments or sharing political articles online.
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