CHIANG MAI

Chiang Mai

The most welcoming and wonderful place, the northern city of Chiang Mai is the one place you must visit in Thailand. Life-changing levels of amazing!

Chiang Mai in a nutshell

Situated around 700km from Bangkok, Chiang Mai is a historic city in the mountains of Northern Thailand, best known for its 300-plus Buddhist temples, hill tribes, tropical rainforests, elephant sanctuaries, fabulous night markets and delicious Thai food. While Chiang Mai has kept up with 21^st century technology, the city remains close to its spiritual roots, offering a complete contrast to Bangkok when it comes to attractions and atmosphere. The city was founded in the 13^th century, and was once completely walled and surrounded by moats. Today, Chiang Mai’s more modern side has developed around the walls of the old town, and the 2 disparate parts of the city live side by side in harmony. 

Exploring the compact Old Town is an absolute delight, to discover so many Buddhist temples located in a small area, some as old as the city itself. But that’s just half of Chiang Mai’s charm. Take time to find all that this unique city has to offer – perhaps take a boat cruise on the Ping River through the country to explore the countryside or see historic attractions. On weekends, many of the city’s streets become ‘walking streets’, a chance to stroll along and soak up the ambience of this wonderful city. Whatever you do, wherever you go, Chiang Mai will leave its imprint on you and make you want to return.

Best time to visit: Come when the weather is cool and dry, October to April. Mid-April is a busy time – it’s the Songkran festival, celebrating the Thai New Year.

Best Area for Sightseeing: Old City Dating all the way back to the 13^th century, this historic part of town is a delight to explore, with its numerous ancient Buddhist temples.

Shopping in Chiang Mai: Bargains are waiting around every corner, in shops and markets throughout Chiang Mai. The city’s famous Night Bazaar located in Downtown is a great place to shop for handicrafts and souvenirs and the noisy Ton Lam Yai Market is a colorful flower market filled with roses, orchids and other exotic blooms. Warorot Market is the city’s oldest market; it opened 110 years ago. Here you’ll find stunning street food, clothes and other merchandise. For fresh produce, visit the lively Mueang Mai Market.

Food & Restaurants in Chiang Mai: You’ll find numerous dining options, including vegetarian eateries, traditional local spots, chic restaurants and superb street food. At Thanin Market, near the Old City, you’ll find fresh organic produce and authentic local dishes to try. The Sunday Market is another foodie haven, filled with eateries and people shopping and dining throughout the day and into the night. There’s also the Chang Puak Gate Market, a night market offering superb traditional Thai dishes.

Nightlife: The Chiang Mai evening scene is more laidback than hectic, with lots of spots to listen to live music and drink the night away.

There are few more heart-warming things than seeing elephants existing in peace and tranquility. A must-see in Chiang Mai!

Things to do in Chiang Mai:

• See the iconic Lion Buddha at Wat Phra Singh.
• Lose yourself in the noise and magic of a traditional night bazaar.
• Visit the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre to learn about the city’s traditions and history.
• See the ancient Tha Phae Gate, once the entrance to the city.
• Explore some of the magnificent Buddhist temples in the Old City, including the 15^th century Wat Chet Yot, massive Wat Chedi Luang, built in the 14^th century and Wat Phra Doi Suthep, 30 minutes away from the city.
• Visit the fascinating Elephant Nature Park, a truly amazing sanctuary for endangered elephants. You are not allowed to ride the elephants - AND YOU SHOULD NOT! - but instead you are able to experience elephants being elephants, roaming free in family groups.

Best way to get around: Take a tuk tuk, songthaew or trishaw when you’re not walking around exploring.

Best Area for Families: Staying near the main square and the ancient walls will have you close to several attractions such as the famous night markets. Great to wander around with the family, especially earlier in the evening before it gets more crowded.