Fall In Love With Chiang Mai: A Complete Travel Guide

Chiang Mai, Thailand — Tucked among misty mountains and lush national parks, Chiang Mai is Northern Thailand’s heart and soul, a city where ancient Lanna temples sit comfortably beside hip cafés, and the scent of grilled street food drifts through streets lined with art galleries and flower markets. It’s the largest city in the north, the capital of Chiang Mai Province, and to many (myself included), one of the most livable places in Thailand. If I could pack up and move anywhere in the country, this would be the place I’d call home, for the slower pace, the creative energy, and yes, the endless bowls of rich, coconut-y khao soi that somehow taste better with every slurp.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, café-hopping through Nimmanhaemin, or debating whether to get a sak yant tattoo from a monk (no judgment either way), Chiang Mai has something for everyone. It’s equal parts peaceful retreat and vibrant city, where every alley has a story, every temple feels like a step back in time, and every meal somehow costs less than your coffee back home. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into what makes this city so unforgettable.

It’s hard to explain the Chiang Mai experience. It’s authentic, charming, laid-back, and exciting all at the same time. You need to see it for yourself!

Chiang Mai Overview

I didn’t know anything about Chiang Mai before this trip. Everything I learned came from reading blogs and articles. But after my extensive research about the region, my excitement level was a notch higher than it was going into Bangkok. And to experience Chiang Mai in flesh, from its vibe, cuisine, history, arts, and culture, all I can say is that it went above and beyond any of my expectations.

I’ll admit it, I didn’t know much about Chiang Mai before this trip. Everything I knew came from a rabbit hole of travel blogs and deep dives into articles that promised “hidden gems” and “must-eats.” But after all that research, my excitement for Chiang Mai quietly outgrew even my buzz for Bangkok. And once I finally experienced it in the flesh, from the relaxed vibe to the rich cuisine, the layered history to the thriving arts and culture scene, it didn’t just meet my expectations. It completely exceeded them.

🌏 Geography

Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand, but don’t expect a glass-and-steel metropolis. Instead, imagine a giant, laidback village wrapped in mountain air and mango trees. It’s got just the right balance of nature and city life. In vibe and scale, think Yogyakarta more than Tokyo, walkable, friendly, and filled with unexpected pockets of charm.

🧘 Culture

Chiang Mai’s culture is a colorful blend of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, a mix of ethnic communities, deep-rooted Buddhist traditions, and cross-border influences from Myanmar, Laos, and China. Throw in a dash of modern art, weekend music fests, and the occasional digital nomad café, and you’ve got a city that feels both timeless and totally current.

🗣️ Language

Keep your English simple and your expectations simpler. Most locals speak only basic English, so think “point, smile, nod” levels of communication. It might feel awkward at first, but it’s part of the fun. Mimicking their English (respectfully) can actually help. Learn a few Thai phrases like “Sawatdee kha” (hello) and “Khop khun kha” (thank you), and you’ll be golden. Some of the older locals also speak a regional Lanna dialect you probably won’t recognize, but smile anyway, it works.

✈️ Flights

Chiang Mai has direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and major cities in Asia like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Manila, and Hong Kong. If there’s no direct route from your area, the easiest (and often cheapest) way is to book a connecting flight via Bangkok. It’s painless, and the domestic terminals are fairly easy to navigate, even if you slept through half your flight.

🚂 Transportation

If you’re feeling adventurous (or romantic), you can also take the train from Bangkok. It takes longer, but it’s a cozy ride and the scenery is worth staying awake for. Once you’re in the city, GrabCar is your best bet, it’s cheap, reliable, and removes the whole “explain where I’m going” stress. For trips outside the city, like temples in the hills or national parks, it’s best to hire a private vehicle or rent a scooter (if you’re confident and the weather’s kind).

🏞️ Activities & Attractions

Chiang Mai runs at a gentler pace than chaotic Bangkok, but there’s still plenty to do. Aside from visiting temples and browsing weekend markets, you’ve got nature on your doorstep. Popular escapes like Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep-Doi Pui National Parks are easily accessible via tours, car rentals, or a good ol’ scooter. If you’re up for it, there are also hill tribe villages where you can learn about traditional crafts and ways of life and elephant sanctuaries where you encounter them in their natural habitat, just choose ethical operators, please.

🍜 Food

The food in Chiang Mai is everything you hoped it would be, just a little calmer. The flavors are more subtle than Bangkok’s punch-in-the-face spice, but still deeply satisfying. Don’t leave without trying khao soi, a northern noodle curry that tastes like it’s been simmered by angels. From sizzling street stalls to trendy cafés with latte art, there’s something for every kind of foodie (and Instagram feed).

🛏️ Hotels & Accommodation

You’ll be spoiled for choice, from cheap but charming guesthouses to boutique hotels that feel way more expensive than they are. Even during peak season, I had no trouble finding a great spot. Prices are noticeably lower than Bangkok’s, and platforms like Agoda and Airbnb make it super easy to browse.

👒 Tourists

Expect a mixed bag: solo backpackers from Europe, organized Chinese tour groups, and couples living out their Southeast Asian rom-com fantasies. The crowd is diverse but generally respectful, and you’ll probably run into familiar faces at the same markets, tours, and massage parlors.

📶 Cellular & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is everywhere, cafés, hotels, airports, even random juice bars. If you’re staying longer or want mobile data, grab a tourist SIM at the airport (around 300 Baht for 7 days of data). Coming from the Philippines and stuck with a SIM-locked phone like we were? Just bite the bullet and use data roaming for Globe and Smart.

☂️ Best Time To Visit Chiang Mai

🌤️ Peak Season (November to February)

This is Chiang Mai’s most popular period. The weather is cool and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from about 15 °C to 28 °C, perfect for exploring without sweat stains. Expect vibrant sky lantern displays during Loi Krathong and Yi Peng (usually in November), and cool evenings to enjoy the Chiang Mai Flower Festival in early February. However, tourist crowds are high and accommodation prices spike, booking early is key!

🌸 Shoulder Seasons (March to May & September to October)

These transitional windows offer a sweet spot, fewer crowds, more deals, and still manageable weather. March to May begins to heat up (often topping 35 °C by April), but with shorter rain events. Plus, Songkran, the playful Thai New Year water festival, sweeps through mid‑April, bringing fun and cultural immersion, though temperatures soar and occasional smoke from burning season may affect air quality. September and October are cooler but wetter, with steady rains, great for lush landscapes, travel deals, and fewer tourists.

🌧️ Off‑Peak Season (June to October)

Heavy rainfall is most common from July through September, some days bring long, drenching monsoon showers. That said, the wet season paints Chiang Mai green and vibrant, and hotels plunge rates. If you don’t mind getting a bit wet here and there, this is the best time to travel if you’re seeking quiet streets and big discounts, just pack your umbrella and waterproof shoes.

🌏 Chiang Mai Map & Location

🍽️  Where To Eat & Drink In Chiang Mai

Rooted in the culinary traditions of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Northern Thai food is a beautiful departure from the spicy southern curries and sweet-salty central dishes most tourists are used to. Up here, flavors are deeper, more herbaceous, and subtly spiced. Think earthy turmeric, aromatic lemongrass, grilled meats, and just the right hint of heat. Khao soi, the iconic Chiang Mai noodle curry, is the poster child of the region’s cuisine, creamy, crunchy, slurpable joy in a bowl.

In recent years, Chiang Mai has quietly become a food-lover’s paradise. On one street, you’ll find a decades-old stall grilling sai ua (northern Thai sausage) over hot coals; on the next, a hip café serving mushroom khao soi with oat milk in a coconut shell. The city’s creative energy spills into its food, thanks in part to digital nomads, Thai returnees, and young chefs trained abroad who brought fresh ideas home. Whether you’re hunting down a 30-baht bowl of noodles at a night market or sipping cold brew in a garden café with housemade kombucha, one thing’s for sure: Chiang Mai’s food scene will charm your palate and probably convince you to stay a few extra days. Maybe weeks. Maybe… indefinitely?

★★★★★ Khao Soi Mae Sai ร้านข้าวซอยแม่สาย (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
📍 29, 1 Ratchaphuek Alley, Tambon Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang Mai District
A short ride from the Old City lies Khao Soi Mae Sai, known among locals and food-obsessed travelers, this spot has been serving their signature northern curry noodle soup for decades. The broth is richer, the noodles a bit firmer, and the meat? Fall-apart tender. It’s often listed as one of the best khao soi spots in Chiang Mai, and after my first bite, I fully understood why. On my third visit to Chiang Mai, this was the very first meal I had, and let’s just say, it set the bar ridiculously high for all the khao soi that followed. The portion felt just right, although part of me wished I had room for a second bowl. Tip: Go early. Their chicken khao soi is the bestseller and tends to sell out.

★★★★★ Khao Soi Mae Manee ข้าวซอยแม่มณี (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
📍 18 Chotana Rd, Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Khao Soi Mae Manee is one of Chiang Mai’s most beloved hidden gems. Opened decades ago as a humble family-run eatery, it has earned a cult following among locals and curious foodies who are willing to venture just a little farther from the city center. What started as a neighborhood go-to has quietly made its way into must-try food lists, all without changing much, Grandma is still in the kitchen, cooking with the kind of heart and instinct no Michelin star can replicate. Their khao soi has a distinct personality, milder and slightly sweeter than the bold kick of Khao Soi Mae Sai, but still packed with deep, comforting flavors. The meat (you can choose between chicken or beef) is fall-apart tender, and their house-pickled vegetables deserve their own spotlight. It’s the kind of place you find yourself craving long after your trip ends.

★★★★★ Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom ข้าวซอยลุงประกิจกาดก้อม (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
📍 53 Suriyawong 5 Rd, Tambon Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang Mai District
A beloved local institution tucked near Kad Kom Market, Khao Soi Lung Prakit has been serving its signature bowls for decades, earning a loyal following of locals and travelers alike. Their version of khao soi is rich, savory, and deeply spiced, with a flavor profile that’s bold yet balanced. For me, Lung Prakit completes the holy trinity of Chiang Mai khao soi, alongside Mae Manee and Mae Sai. I was feeling under the weather when we visited, and this bowl felt like just the cure I needed. It leans closer to Mae Sai’s profile, but amps up the salt and spice just a touch. Honestly, I wouldn’t mind rotating among these three every time I’m in Chiang Mai.

★★★★★ Magnolia Café แมกโนเลีย คาเฟ่ (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
📍 131 70,131/82 Rattanakosin Rd, Pa Tan Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Tucked away in Chiang Mai’s quieter corners, Magnolia Café is a cozy, heritage-inspired restaurant known for its modern takes on traditional Northern Thai dishes. It’s the kind of place that feels like stepping into your chic grandmother’s house, if she collected heirloom furniture and had a thing for curating vibes. When we walked in, the interior struck me as something straight out of a Spanish-era ancestral home in the Philippines, and the nostalgia hit immediately. We ordered watermelon cubes topped with desiccated salmon, caramelized pork belly, crispy water shrimp, curry, and a few dreamy desserts, among other things. The flavors were bold yet familiar, like a culinary love letter to Southeast Asia. Every bite felt forward-thinking, but still deeply comforting. Honestly, it’s the kind of place where you’d want to end your day with a full belly and a full heart.

★★★★★ Ekachan The Wisdom Of Ethnic Thai Cuisine เอกฉันท์ (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
📍 95 chang khlan Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai
Ekachan is a restaurant that pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of Northern Thailand, particularly the diverse ethnic flavors of the region. The restaurant represents traditional recipes from various hill tribes and northern communities in a refined, thoughtful way. The space is dressed in warm wooden interiors and tribal-inspired decor, giving off the feel of a rustic yet elegant cultural archive you can eat your way through. We dined on an assortment of dishes, Thai salads, tom yum, whole fried fish, deeply spiced curries, and grilled mackerels, among others — and each bite felt like a celebration of Northern Thailand’s layered and lesser-known culinary voices.

★★★★★ Aunt Aoy Kitchen ครัวป้าอ้อย (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
📍 377 2 Chiang Rai Rd, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District
I think Jay Fai has found her northern rival in Aunt Aoy. Walking in felt like stepping into your grandma’s dining room. We ordered their signature crab omelette with pork cracklings (a heart attack on a plate and an instant favorite!), plus stir-fried Thai veggies, spicy salads, and clean, bright tom yum soups. Me and my friend ended up ordering two extra servings of rice… yeah, we loved it!

★★★★★ Paak Dang Riverside Restaurant ร้านอาหารปากแดง (Michelin Plate)
📍 168, Pa Daet Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chang Wat
Paak Dang Riverside was one of the first restaurants I tried on my very first Chiang Mai trip, and now it’s become a tradition. I never visit without eating there at least once. Their river prawns and steamed fish are always a hit, but the real game-changer for me was their watery curry with fresh peppercorns — my tastebuds were not ready. The dish was unlike anything I’d ever tried, and honestly, it still lives rent-free in my memory. To top it all off, the restaurant overlooks the Mae Ping River, making every dinner feel just a little more romantic, even if you’re dining with your friends.

★★★★☆ Chom Cafe And Restaurant ชมคาเฟ่ (Michelin Plate)
📍 2 13 ม.2 Somphot Chiang Mai 700 Pi Rd, Mae Hia, เมือง Chiang Mai
Chom Cafe is one of those places where the food plays supporting role to the real star: the outdoor garden. We had their classic coffees and a few desserts. What is worth writing about is their stunning mossy garden out back. With dreamy ferns, misty trees, and a koi-filled pond, it feels like you’ve wandered into a mossy fairyland built for Instagram.

★★★★★ The Baristro At Ping River
📍 62 Patan Road T.Patan Muang Chiang Mai
Nestled right by the Ping River, The Baristro feels like the kind of café dreamt up by a group of artsy, caffeine-fueled friends who one day said, “Let’s open a coffee shop,” and thank the coffee gods they did. We sampled their staples (solid classics), their modern spins (hello, coconut coffee), and even their pastries (no notes, just love). But the real magic? Sipping your drink outdoors while watching the Ping River drift lazily by, especially after a soul-warming bowl of Khao Soi Mae Sai just minutes away. And if you’re like me and want to take the experience home, they’ve got single-serve coffee bags and beans with flavor notes ranging from fruity to caramel to what sorcery is this? I left with a shopping bag full of beans and zero regrets.

★★★★☆ Kanom Mae ขนมแม่
📍 Mueang, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Kanom Mae is a sweet little dessert shop in Chiang Mai that specializes in traditional Thai treats, and it’s a paradise for anyone with a sugar-loving soul. Think colorful bowls filled with chewy bua loy, sticky rice, crunchy water chestnuts, and their irresistibly creamy homemade ice cream. It’s one of those spots where you pop in for “just a quick dessert” on a hot Chiang Mai afternoon and somehow walk out having sampled half the menu.

★★★★☆ Cafe De Thaan Aoan คาเฟ่ตาลอ่อน
📍 154/5 Prapokklao Road, Tambon Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Cafe de Thaan Aoan is a charming little spot nestled within Chiang Mai’s old city, perfect for a lunch break between temples. The menu is a cozy mix of Western comfort food and classic Thai favorites, so whether you’re craving a creamy pasta or a spicy basil stir-fry, you’ll find something that hits the spot.

★★★★★ Sunday Night Market Walking Street
📍 Rachadamnoen Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Chiang Mai’s Sunday Night Market Walking Street is where your feet and your stomach go on an unforgettable journey, whether they like it or not. Held every Sunday along Ratchadamnoen Road in the Old City, this market transforms the quiet street into a street food paradise that feels like it stretches into the next lifetime. From sizzling skewers and grilled seafood to sticky rice desserts and freshly squeezed juices, it’s a festival of flavors that doesn’t let up. Locals and tourists alike come not just for the food, but for the vibe, live music, local crafts, and the kind of crowd that makes you feel like the entire planet decided to hang out in Chiang Mai for one night. Tip: come hungry, wear comfy shoes, and bring small bills… because resistance is futile.

★★★★☆ 7-11
As I mentioned in my Bangkok guide, 7-Eleven meals in Thailand are surprisingly good. It’s the kind of place that saves the day when you’re traveling on a tight budget, or when the heat, fatigue, or sheer indecisiveness makes hunting for a proper restaurant feel like a quest. Whether it’s a hot basil chicken rice or those addicting toasties, 7-Eleven always comes through when you need it most.

Meal Type	Average Spend Per Person
Café, Snack	USD 1 to 4
Fast Food, Casual Dining	USD 2 to 5
Premium Casual, Fine Dining, Buffet	USD 5 to 30
Beer Per Bottle	USD 2 to 4
Cocktail Per Serving	USD 4 to 8
Wine Per Glass	USD 6 to 10
Spirit Per Bottle	USD 16 to 30
Daily Allowance	USD 10 to 50

Flight To Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is the main gateway to Northern Thailand and currently ranks as the fourth-busiest airport in the country. Located just a short drive from the city center, it offers both domestic and international flights, making Chiang Mai surprisingly easy to reach.

If you’re coming from Bangkok, a one-way flight usually takes about an hour and costs around PHP 1,500 to PHP 3,000, depending on the airline and how early you book. You can check Google Flights for your preferred schedule and airline.

There are also direct flights from other major Thai cities like Krabi and Phuket, as well as nearby Asian countries including China, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia,Philippines, and Malaysia. If you can’t find a direct route, your best bet is to fly into Bangkok first, then hop on a domestic flight to Chiang Mai.

Point Of Origin	Estimated Flight Hours
Manila, Philippines	6 Hours, Connecting / With Layover
Singapore, Singapore	5 Hours, Connecting / With Layover
Dubai, UAE	10 Hours, Connecting / With Layover
London, UK	20 Hours, Connecting / With Layover
New York, USA	30 Hours, Connecting / With Layover
Los Angeles, USA	28 Hours, Connecting / With Layover
Sydney, Australia	15 Hours, Connecting / With Layover

Train To Chiang Mai

Listen to me when I say: you need to experience an overnight train in Thailand at least once, preferably the ones bound for Chiang Mai. It’s a 13-hour journey that feels more like a moving sleepover than public transport. After a hectic Bangkok escapade, it was exactly what we needed to rest and regroup. The train usually departs from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (a.k.a. the new, very shiny Bang Sue station — R.I.P. Hua Lamphong, you will be missed). We booked the 2nd Class AC Sleeper and the price depends on whether you choose the upper berth (cheaper) or the lower berth (more expensive, but with a window view). Because of booking fees, we paid around 1,000 Baht per head.

Now, I know 2nd class sounds mid, but trust me, it’s already very comfortable. The interiors were clean, well-maintained, and the bunks had fresh sheets and curtains for privacy. They even serve decent food on board. If you’re lucky, you might catch sunset over the Bangkok skyline just as the train starts to pull away. It’s a vibe: listening to music while having soft chatter with friends.

We fell asleep to the gentle rocking of the train, and by around 5 AM, I climbed down to my friend’s lower berth just to peek out the window. The view was something else, rolling mountains, sleepy temples, silhouettes of trees, all bathed in this warm, soft orange light. It was peaceful in a way I can’t quite describe. By 7 AM, we pulled into Chiang Mai Station, where a small crowd of backpackers was already gathering. Everyone looked just as excited as we were, buzzing with that early-morning energy and the thrill of arriving somewhere new. Honestly, it was one of my favorite parts of the trip and something I’d do again in a heartbeat.

Where To Stay In Chiang Mai

As the gateway for exploring Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is packed with accommodation options, from friendly budget hostels to lush jungle-surrounded resorts. No matter where you decide to stay, most organized tours will conveniently pick you up right at your hotel lobby (yes, even if it’s a tiny hostel down a quiet alley). The city is also remarkably easy to navigate. If you’ve got some baht to burn, consider splurging on one of the upscale resorts tucked away in the outskirts, where you can wake up to birdsong and mountain views. Use platforms like Agoda or Airbnb to browse current rates and availability. Check out some of our recommended stays below!

💰 Budget-Friendly

★★★★★ BED Phrasingh Adults Only
📅 Check Rates & Availability
A calm, adults-only spot with clean, modern rooms and free coffee and tea all day. Perfect if you like your mornings quiet and your sightseeing close by. Tip: You’ll be right in the Old City, so “let’s just pop out” can mean a full day of temple-hopping.

★★★★★ Little Guest House Hotel
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Charming decor, homey vibes, and a complimentary breakfast that feels homemade. It’s in a peaceful neighborhood, so you can rest well after a night of market snacking.

★★★★★ ON Thapae Chiangmai
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Friendly staff, clean rooms, and an unbeatable location for the Sunday Walking Street. It’s the kind of convenience where you can shop for souvenirs, run back to drop them off, and return for round two.

★★★★☆ Goldenbell Hotel
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Rooftop pool? Check. Spacious rooms? Check. A street food market practically at your doorstep? Double check. It’s the kind of place where your hardest decision will be whether to swim before or after dinner.

★★★☆☆ Wayside Guesthouse
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Small, quiet, and family-run, the kind of place where the staff actually remember your name. It’s close to all the major Old City sights but still feels tucked away from the crowds.

💼 Mid-Range

★★★★★ Rimping Village
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Boutique charm meets eco-friendly touches, with a peaceful garden pool and free bikes to explore the city. It’s close enough to walk to the action but far enough to feel like a mini retreat.

★★★★★ The Inside House
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Feels like the city secret you stumbled upon before the crowds did, boutique, stylish, and intimate without trying too hard.

★★★★☆ U Nimman Chiang Mai
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Trendy, modern, and right in Chiang Mai’s café capital. The rooftop pool comes with city and mountain views, so you can sip coffee in the morning and a cocktail at sunset without moving far.

★★★★☆ Le Méridien Chiang Mai
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Polished and spacious, with a blend of Lanna heritage and modern comfort. You can shop at the Night Bazaar and be back in your air-conditioned room in under five minutes, ideal for humid evenings.

★★★★☆ InterContinental Chiang Mai
📅 Check Rates & Availability
A Chiang Mai classic with roomy interiors, two pools, and a full-service spa. It’s got that “old but gold” feel, and its location makes sightseeing a breeze.

🏨 Luxury

★★★★★ Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Luxury so subtle it feels natural, pavilions nestled among rice terraces, private pools, and legendary spa treatments. It’s probably the Four Seasons you picture when someone says “Thailand luxury resort.”

★★★★★ Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Riverside location, elegant design, and a spa worth scheduling your trip around. It’s peaceful but still close enough to walk to the markets when you want a dose of city life.

★★★★★ Raya Heritage
📅 Check Rates & Availability
There’s art everywhere, beautiful suites showcasing northern craftsmanship, gardens with local flair, and design that whispers (not shouts) elegance. It’s romantic, refined, and grounded in culture.

★★★★★ 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
📅 Check Rates & Availability
A beautifully restored teak mansion with lush gardens, a serene pool, and discreet service. It feels exclusive without being pretentious, the kind of place where you can unwind in style after a day exploring.

★★★★★ Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai
📅 Check Rates & Availability
Large, comfortable rooms, a resort-style pool, and multiple dining options. It’s ideal for travelers who like the convenience of a city hotel but the feel of a holiday escape.

Classification	Price Range Per Night
Budget Accommodation	USD 10 to 60
Mid Range Accommodation	USD 100 to 180
Luxury Accommodation	USD 200 and up

🏨 book your accommodation through the search box below or by using this link

Things To Do & Places To Visit

Chiang Mai feels a bit more laidback in terms of activities compared to a hectic Bangkok. Unlike Bangkok where you can almost do the majority of your activities as “do-it-yourself,” Chiang Mai requires a bit more of a “properly organized tour” to maximize your time. Most vehicle rentals already include a driver/tour guide who can help you with your itinerary. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a motorcycle and visit destinations at your own free will.

Tha Phae Gate

Tha Phae Gate is the entrance to the old city. There are lots of pigeons in the area. Locals are also selling food so you can attract more pigeons if you want to take pictures. It’s a nice start to a Chiang Mai adventure.

Wat Phan On

After a photo-op at Tha Phae Gate, you can walk into the old city and visit whatever temple you stumble upon. The first temple, which is near the entrance, could be Wat Phan On. It is one of the smaller temples in the old city. It was built in 1501 by a Lanna king. Admission is free but you can always give some donations.

Upon entering the complex, our eyes were immediately glued to the beautiful golden chedi. It’s still the usual bell-shaped chedi but its edges are geometrically patterned. I think it is one of the most stunning chedis I’ve seen in Chiang Mai.

The wiharn, or shrine hall where people pray and important Buddha images are housed, is a large two-story hall. It has golden columns, a well-lit altar that contains the golden Buddha, and a red carpet that starts at the entrance and ends at the altar’s foot. After looking around the temple, my friends bought some souvenirs at a shop beside the wiharn.

Wat Inthakin Sadue Muang

Our next stop was supposed to be Wat Phan Tao, but we walked by this small but uniquely black temple called Wat Inthakin Sadue Muang. It is hard not to notice because of its black and gold exterior and the decorations outside were very festive. The temple’s name, Wat Sadue Muang, means “temple of the city navel” which is an allusion to its location in the center of town where it was constructed over 700 years ago.

Wat Phan Tao

The next temple we visited was Wat Phan Tao. It is particularly unique because of its all-wood wiharn, one of the few remaining structures of its kind in Chiang Mai.

The interior is made of wood which gives a native feel. This temple personifies what I had in mind when I think of an old rural Buddhist temple. They also have a red chedi at the back but unfortunately, it was under maintenance (or repainting).

Wat Chedi Luang

The last temple we visited inside the old city is one of the most beautiful temples we saw. My friends and I agreed that it is how we picture an ancient, historical Buddhist temple. Wat Chedi Luang is a large complex that was originally made up of three temples.

Wat Chedi Luang translates to “temple of the big stupa” or “temple of the royal stupa.” True enough, the huge chedi at the center of the complex was a sight to behold. It looks ruined but it adds to the charm – it’s like being transported back in time to the old Lanna Kingdom.

Around the “royal stupa” are various beautiful wiharns. The ornamentation and design of the temples’ exterior look like they were carefully made by highly skilled craftsmen.

Cafe De ThaanAoan

After a productive temple-hopping around the old city, we decided to check out the cafes for lunch. While walking, we saw a street vendor who sells freshly squeezed orange juice. I don’t know if we were just thirsty at that time but it was the best fruit juice we tasted anywhere in Thailand.

A little walk from the street vendor and we saw a chic-looking place called Café DeThaanAoan. We bought some Pad Thai, Spring Rolls, Sticky Mango Rice, and others (I can’t recall). It was a good dining experience. After lunch, we went back to our accommodation to prepare for our next activity.

Doi Suthep–Pui National Park Tour

Our next activity was an hour away from the city of Chiang Mai. Most of the beautiful places you can see in the north require you to drive an hour or two to the outskirts. There are a lot of agencies that offer cheap tour services.

For our trip, we hired a vehicle with a driver to take us to our desired destination. We used the services of Chiang Mai Specialist, also known as Wandering Star Tour. You can message them on their Facebook page for inquiries or you can check their vehicle rental packages here. The transaction was very smooth. The SUV selected was is in excellent condition and the driver assigned to us was punctual and hospitable. Overall, it was a very comfortable ride.

We availed of two car rental packages from them. The first one is a half-day (4-hour) tour to Doi Suthep, which includes a visit to Hmong Village and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The cost is around 1,800 Baht including fuel for four people. (Take note that additional hours that you incur outside of the agreed time would cost you 300 Baht per hour, so be punctual with whatever pick-up time you’ve agreed with the agency)

The driver arrived around 1:00 PM in our hostel, the agreed pick-up time. We immediately dashed into the SUV (a nice one) and went on with the drive (around an hour). One moment we were on city highways, and then next we were going up the mountains. For the record, Doi Suthep rises at an elevation of 5,499 feet so it gives you a nice view of the city from the windows of your vehicle.

Hmong Tribal Village

Our first stop in the afternoon is Hmong Tribal Village. Hmong is an ethnic group from the mountainous regions of Thailand and its neighboring countries. The entrance fee is 20 Baht per person. You’ll arrive at a place that looks like a large souvenir market and then you’ll climb to the top of the village. As we climbed, we passed through small museums, exhibits, and shops. The most memorable thing we did was probably trying to shoot banana blossoms with a tribal arrow. It was super fun!

The view at the top of the village was breathtaking. You could see the village houses and mountains and colorful flower beds everywhere! There are also children in ethnic costume whom you can take pictures with (it’s not for free, we gave 40 Baht).

There’s a café at the top where we decided to chill for a while. I ordered their iced milk with honey which I highly recommend. We stayed for around twenty minutes before going back to our vehicle. On our way down, a nice Thai man gave us a free taste of local wine. It tasted really good, looking back now I wish I bought a bottle.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, or simply Doi Suthep, is one of the most beautiful temples I’ve seen in Thailand. It is a Theravada temple with a striking golden exterior. What makes it even more majestic is the fact that it sits at the top of a mountain.

The entrance fee is 50 Baht if you are going to use the lift or 20 Baht if you’re going to use the stairs. We decided to use the lift going up and then the stairs going down. At the top, the golden temple is glowing against the heat of the sun. The view from above is heavenly even though there was a visible haze.

We walked around and inspected the temple grounds for more than an hour before going down. On our way down, we took pictures with some kids in traditional costume – I paid them 50 Baht. There were food stalls at the foot of the temple where we decided to eat. My friend even bought some of Thailand’s infamous insect food, which isn’t that bad. It just has a weird texture.

Sunday Night Market Walking Street

After we arrived at our hotel from Doi Suthep, we rested for a couple of hours. Our next stop is the Sunday Night Market Walking Street, which happens every Sunday. At The Pae Gate, we were greeted by a woman in full Thai costume doing the classical Thai dance. Once inside the walls, our senses feasted on all the colorful stalls of different local goods and the bustle of the crowd. It was amazing!

There are lots of countless things you can buy from the bazaar, but our favorite? The food section. It’s another Khao San Road / Khlong Lat Mayom without the river and boats. We jumped from one stall to another, buying anything that captured our attention. There was this one street food (I don’t know its name) that looked like small white seafood balls and it was smothered in a very spicy sauce and lots of celery. I loved it so much, I had two servings. We also bought a bag of crispy pork (their version of Philippine’s chicharron). It was so good, we didn’t need any dip – definitely giving chicharron a run for its money.

We realized how big the bazaar was only after we walked around. We saw artists, ready to draw you in charcoal or pencil at a price. There were also some street performers which added a hip feel to the ambiance.

Everything about Sunday Night Market Walking Street is so cool. It’s something that anyone should experience when going to Chiang Mai, so make sure your visit includes a Sunday.

Doi Inthanon National Park Tour

Our day five is a whole day tour at Doi Inthanon National Park. Doi Inthanon is Thailand’s highest peak with an elevation of 8,415 feet.

For this trip, we had the same car rental we used for Doi Suthep. We were picked up at 5:00 AM because the travel time to Doi Inthanon is around two hours. One of my friends bought breakfast at the nearby 7-11 so we just ate inside the car.

The Highest Point

Our first destination was the Highest Point. More than an hour into the drive, we woke up to chilly weather high above the mountains. The view with the sun and the trees was so captivating.

We stopped at a checkpoint where we had to pay a 300 Baht entrance fee per head. There was a woman who sold us some large green mangoes, less than a hundred baht per piece. We bought one and ate it later at the Hostel. We didn’t realize before how good it tasted, we would have bought at least five pieces.

After a few minutes from the checkpoint, we arrived at a place that looks like an observatory or something. When our driver opened the car, a gush of very cold wind came rushing inside. It was so cold, the temperature was around six degrees Celsius. We walked some fifteen to twenty minutes trail to get to the highest spot. We took some pictures and went to Ang Ka Nature Trail.

Ang Ka Nature Trail

Ang Ka Nature Trail gives you a closer look into the flora and fauna of Doi Inthanon. Boardwalks were constructed for safety and ease of going around. The forest looks very healthy, the barks of the trees and even the boardwalks were covered in moss. The tour guide said if we were lucky, we would encounter wildlife like Asian vine snakes, pit vipers, geckos, birds, and toads. Unfortunately, we were not able to spot one (maybe because it was the dry season).

The Twin Pagodas

Our next stop was the twin pagodas, Phra Mahathat Naphamethinidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphonphumisiri, built to honor the 60th birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1987, and the 60th birthday of Queen Sirikit in 1992, respectively.

The twin pagodas postcard shot was the image I saw when I did my research on Chiang Mai. It’s the reason why I wanted to go to Chiang Mai. When we arrived at the area, we saw from below how huge the pagodas are. We went up and the place was exploding with colors. More than the twin pagodas, there’s also a fairy-tale-like flower garden.

The place was swarming with bees which we didn’t mind at all. Benches are all over the area where you can sit and just mesmerize at the view – all that’s missing is a bottle of Jack! One of my favorite moments of our trip.

We ate at the cafeteria below before we left. We loved their sweet corn Khanom Krok, which are sweet little coconut rice pancakes.

Hmong Market

We stopped by the Hmong Market. The place is god-sent for foodies like us, they have dried and fresh cherries, plums, mulberries to different kinds of nuts. We bought some intending to bring it home but ended up eating before our trip concluded.

Royal Project Research Station

The Royal Project is a non-profit organization founded by King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1969 to solve the issues of deforestation, poverty, and opium production by promoting alternative crops in Thailand.

True enough, there were lots of different crops in the area. There was an array of greenhouses by the mountainside, which gives the impression of high-tech agricultural research.

Wachirathan Falls

Our last stop for the day was Wachirathan Falls. The falls have a height of 80 meters. From the pictures, it looks small but up close, it is massive.

There is a large log below the viewing deck, which you can cross to get closer to the falls. Be careful though, it’s quite slippery.

Before we went into our two-hour drive back to the city, we had some nice drinks at the cafeteria.

Thai Massage

We had a couple of hours’ rest when we arrived from our Doi Inthanon tour. After that, we went to a massage center suggested by our host. At 300 Baht, you get a nice foot and body massage.

Paak Dang

Given that it’s our last night in Chiang Mai, we decided to have our dinner at a nice restaurant called “Paak Dang”. The dining area overlooks the Mae Rim River. Their curry and tom yum were excellent! And the view? It was so romantic.

At 4:00 AM the following day, we went to the airport for our flight to Bangkok and then Bangkok to Krabi. Connecting flights from Chiang Mai to Bangkok to Krabi are a couple of thousand Baht cheaper than a direct flight from Chiang Mai to Krabi. It was a bittersweet departure as we did not realize how much we were going to enjoy Chiang Mai. Had we known beforehand, we would have spent more days in the region.

Itinerary & Budget

This is just a sample itinerary and budget. Change things up based on your travel style. Availing of organized tour helps a lot and don’t make our mistake of spending just a couple of days in Chiang Mai. Stay for a week if you can.

Itinerary For Chiang Mai

With so many activities to choose from, I highly suggest you do your research carefully (think of what do you like to see the most). As someone who loves temples, nature, and breathtaking views, I highly recommend the Doi Suthep–Pui National Park and Doi Inthanon National Park tours. You can also visit Chiang Rai and elephant sanctuaries.

Day	Activities
Day 1: Temples & Doi Suthep–Pui National Park	Train to Chiang Mai
	Wat Phan On
	Wat Pan Tao
	Wat Chedi Luang
	Lunch
	Doi Suthep–Pui National Park Tour
	Sunday Night Market Walking Street
Day 2: Doi Inthanon National Park	Doi Inthanon National Park Tour
	Get a Thai Massage
	Dinner at Paak Dang

Budget For Chiang Mai

The estimates below are in American Dollars, Philippine Peso, and Thai Baht, and the exchange rates are based on the closing rates at the time of posting. To convert to your home currency, visit this site. The airfare cost is assuming that you are riding a train from Bangkok and going back by plane, the accommodation cost if you are booking a budget hotel, and the transportation, if you’ll use GrabCar to go around the city.

Regardless of your travel style, Chiang Mai can be very budget-friendly. The expenses that would cost you money are the tour packages.

3-Day Budget	USD	PHP	THB
Airfare	30	1,500	1,005
Accommodation	60	3,000	2,010
Food, Drinks, & Alcohol	40	2,000	1,340
Entrance & Activity Fees	20	1,000	670
Transportation	40	2,000	1,340
Tour Guide & Vehicle Rental	160	8,000	5,360
Random Costs & Souvenirs	40	2,000	1,340
Total	390	19,500	13,065

Final Thoughts

Chiang Mai is one of my favorite places in the world. It’s hard to explain the Chiang Mai experience. It’s authentic, charming, laid-back, and exciting all at the same time. You need to see it for yourself!

★★★★★ Food
Food is as excellent as it was in Bangkok. Although I would say that Bangkok would take the cake for the best Pad Thai. Lots of coffee shops too!

★★★★★ Culture
A Chiang Mai experience is a cultural immersion to the extreme.

★★★★☆ Nature
Except for beaches and marine life, Chiang Mai is surrounded by national parks with interesting topographies and flourishing flora and fauna.

☆☆☆☆☆ Beach, Surfing, & Underwater
No, you are in the middle of a mountain range. However, Southern Thailand has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

★★★★☆ Nightlife
More laidback nightlife compared to Bangkok (which I prefer).

★★★★★ Relaxation
The food, the massage, the nature, all of these will revitalize you.

★★★★★ Activities
Chiang Mai is the center of Northern Thailand. You have endless options on what to do. You can go on a food trip, do a nature trek, see the wildlife, visit tribal villages, or chase temples while maintaining a very laid-back mood. And while you’re at it, bring everyone in the family. People of all ages from different walks of life need to experience Chiang Mai at least once in their lifetime.

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