Chiang Mai: what to do in the north of Thailand
What to see in Chiang Mai: the Old City, temples, night markets, elephant sanctuaries and Doi Inthanon. When to go, where to stay and a 3-day plan.
Chiang Mai is nicknamed the "Rose of the North". The city sits on a plain at about 316 m among mountains, so it is greener and calmer than Bangkok. It is the second largest city in Thailand. According to Wikivoyage, it was founded in 1296 and was once the capital of the Lanna kingdom. If you are going to Thailand for the sea, combine the north with some island time, for example on Koh Samui.
What to see
- The Old City. A square historic core surrounded by a moat and the remains of walls. Inside are dozens of temples, cafes and guesthouses. The center is easy to cover on foot or by bicycle.
- Temples. The best known are Wat Phra That Doi Suthep on the mountain above the city, and Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang in the Old City. Cover your shoulders and knees when you enter.
- Night markets. In the evenings markets with food and souvenirs open. It is an easy place to try northern cuisine, such as khao soi.
- Elephant sanctuaries. Choose places where the elephants are not used for riding and shows: you feed them, watch them and bathe with them. Read reviews and conditions before booking.
- Mountains and waterfalls. The surroundings include Doi Inthanon National Park with the highest point in Thailand, and many one-day routes.
Where to stay
Accommodation in Chiang Mai is inexpensive even by Thai standards. There are simple guesthouses and boutique hotels in quiet gardens near the Old City. Evenings in the dry season are cooler than in Bangkok and the south, so you do not always need air conditioning.
When to go
The best time is the cool dry season, roughly November to February. In spring, when fields are burned, the air can be worse, and in the rainy season trips to the mountains are less predictable. Check the forecast and the air quality in advance.
Getting there
The easiest way is to fly to Bangkok and take a domestic flight. Overland options, the night train or a bus, take a long time. In Chiang Mai, apps like Grab are often cheaper than tuk-tuks if you do not negotiate the price with the latter.
A 3-day idea
- Day 1: the Old City, temples and a market in the evening.
- Day 2: an elephant sanctuary or Doi Inthanon.
- Day 3: cafes, a Thai cooking class and getting ready for your flight.
For the capital leg of the trip, see where to stay in Bangkok. Compare fares in the HotTrip flight search.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need in Chiang Mai?
Three or four days is enough to see the city and make a trip to the mountains or the elephants.
When is the best time to go?
From November to February, when it is dry and cooler.
How do I choose an elephant sanctuary?
Look for places without riding and shows, and study the reviews and the policy of the place.
Do I need to cover up in temples?
Yes, shoulders and knees must be covered.
How do I get there from Bangkok?
About an hour by plane. By train or bus it takes much longer.
Cover: photo by Guillaume Meurice on Pexels
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