Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Iconic golden temple perched 1,073m above the city with panoramic views
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About Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Province encompasses 22,978 sq km of northern Thailand, from its vibrant urban core to remote mountain villages and dense national parks. The province is renowned for its Lanna heritage, over 300 Buddhist temples, and rich culinary traditions. Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak at 2,565m, sits within the province alongside world-class elephant sanctuaries and lush trekking terrain.
- Capital
- Chiang Mai City
- Largest city
- Chiang Mai City
- Population
- 1.8 million
- Languages
- Thai, Kham Mueang (Northern Thai), English in tourist areas
- Currency
- Thai Baht
- Time zone
- ICT (UTC+7)
Explore Chiang Mai by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Chiang Mai
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Thailand's highest mountain with cloud forests, waterfalls, and royal pagodas
Old City & Ancient Temples
Walled city center with over 30 historic temples including Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang
Sunday Walking Street
Massive weekend market stretching from Tha Phae Gate with crafts, food, and street performers
Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries
No-riding sanctuaries in Mae Taeng and Mae Wang for ethical elephant encounters
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Chiang Mai Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Chiang Mai, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Chiang Mai
- Days 1-2Chiang Mai city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Chiang Mai
- Days 1-3Chiang Mai comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Chiang Mai, departure
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $23 (700 THB)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $62 (1,900 THB)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $183 (5,700 THB)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Tamarind Village
Check rates on Booking.comU Chiang Mai
Check rates on Booking.comLamphu House
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Chiang Mai
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Huen Phen
Khao Soi Khun Yai
David's Kitchen
Getting around Chiang Mai
Transportation options in Chiang Mai include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in THB, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $8 (250 THB) | $30 (930 THB) | $120 (3,700 THB) |
| Food (per day) | $8 (250 THB) | $18 (560 THB) | $40 (1,240 THB) |
| Transportation | $3 (90 THB) | $6 (185 THB) | $15 (465 THB) |
| Activities | $4 (120 THB) | $8 (250 THB) | $8 (250 THB) |
| Daily total | $23 (700 THB) | $62 (1,900 THB) | $183 (5,700 THB) |
Best time to visit Chiang Mai
Essential travel tips
- Get a local SIM card at the airport for cheap data (DTAC or AIS, ~300 THB/week)
- Book elephant sanctuary tours in advance as they fill up quickly
- The Old City is very walkable; base yourself there for easy temple access
- Rent a scooter to explore outside the city but always wear a helmet
- Eat at Chiang Mai Gate market in the morning for the best local breakfast
Safety information
Apply sunscreen SPF50+ daily on children
Bottled water only - carry water at all times
Always use helmets on scooters - don't put children on scooters at all if possible
Children's hospitals: Chiang Mai Ram Hospital has a dedicated pediatric department
Keep children close at crowded night markets
Frequently asked questions
Is Chiang Mai safe to visit in 2026?
Chiang Mai ranks among Southeast Asia's safest cities with a crime index of around 21 (very low) and a safety index of 78. The main risks for travelers are traffic accidents (especially scooter-related), petty theft at tourist sites, and health impacts from seasonal burning smoke. Emergency services: police at 191 (national) / 053-276-040 (Chiang Mai Police Station), medical at 1669 (national ambulance / EMS).
What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
The best time to visit Chiang Mai is November to February. Chiang Mai has a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons: a cool dry season (November-February) with temperatures of 15-28°C, a hot season (March-May) reaching 38-40°C with severe air pol
Do I need a visa to visit Chiang Mai?
Entry requirements follow Thailand rules. Most Western nationals receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival. Longer stays require a tourist visa or Thailand Elite visa. Visa-on-arrival available for many nationalities for 15 days. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Chiang Mai?
The currency in Chiang Mai is the Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Chiang Mai?
The main language(s) spoken in Chiang Mai: Thai, Kham Mueang (Northern Thai), English in tourist areas. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Chiang Mai?
The top attractions in Chiang Mai include Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Doi Inthanon National Park, and Sunday Walking Street (Wualai Road). Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.