The Ultimate Chiang Mai Travel Guide: Best Tips and Experiences

Chiang Mai, the largest city in Northern Thailand, is the rose of the north for a reason. Offering a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Nestled in a mountain valley along the banks of the Ping River, Chiang Mai was once a key hub on ancient trading routes, and its historical significance is evident in the city’s architecture and cultural landmarks.

The Old City is a living testament to its past, with remnants of ancient walls and moats that once protected it from invaders. The city is a vibrant destination that caters to every type of traveler. From delicious street food and bustling markets to breathtaking hikes and tranquil nature retreats, Chiang Mai offers a unique experience away from the bustling streets of Bangkok. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a family on vacation, an avid explorer, or a cultural enthusiast, Chiang Mai promises an unforgettable journey filled with diverse experiences.

In other words, everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip to Chiang Mai can be found right here in this comprehensive guide. Whether you're looking for practical travel tips, must-see attractions, or hidden gems, this guide has got you covered.

Getting to Chiang Mai

Flights: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is the airport you will fly into. Most International flights will take you to Bangkok first then a small connection that is about 1h 15m flight to CNX. The most popular direct flights to Chiang Mai are from Seoul, Taipei City, and Bangkok. 

By Train: The state railway operates 10 trains a day to Chiang Mai railway station to/from Bangkok, these can run as overnight trips and take about 12-15 hours. In fact, check here for the time table.

By Bus: The trip duration from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes about 9 hours for the overnight bus and can take 12 hours during the day depending on traffic.

Getting Around Chiang Mai

• Public Transport: 
  • Songthaews (red trucks) are the most popular, which is like a shared taxi that picks up and drops off passengers. They can take you anywhere in old town for only 30 baht ($0.80 USD). 
  • Grab is the Uber of Thailand, download the app. 
  • Tuk-tuks, these three wheeled vehicles are famous in Thailand, they are not as popular in CHiang Mai as they are in bangkok but they are still around and good for a short trip. 
    • Note: There can be serious traffic in Chiang Mai during peak hours. 
• Renting a Vehicle: In order to rent a car in Thailand, you must be 21 years old and you will need a category B license for at least one year, a valid passport, and some places may also require you to carry an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). Note that driving in Thailand is on the left side of the road. 
• Renting a Motorbike: To rent a motorbike, motorcycle, or scooter in Thailand you will need your passport, visa, driver’s license, International Driver’s Permit (IDP), motorcycle insurance, and personal travel insurance. However, some rental companies might allow you to rent without some of these items but know that if you are stopped by the police without them you will be fined. 
  • Note: that driving in Thailand is on the left side of the road and driving in Thailand can be dangerous. From my experience the traffic laws are more like suggestions, motorbikes rule the road and are very daring, then there's the chance of a dog, chicken, kids, buffalos in the road. So keep your wits about you and stay in your comfort zone. 
• Cycling: Bike rentals are common in Chiang Mai. Biking is a great way to explore a larger area of Chiang Mai in and out of the old town
• Walking: The best areas for walking and exploring on foot would be the Old Town and Nimman area. 

Best Time To Visit

November to February: The dry season or ‘cool’ season. This will be the best time to visit as it is never cold in Thailand but during this time you will experience milder warm temps and a cool off at night (53-60F) 

March to April: The temperature will be hitting (86-104F) during this time. But you will be able to experience Songkran, the three day water throwing new year celebration. Usually from April 13 to 15. But if you want to participate in the free flowing water festival, the old town is a great place for that. That being said, If you prefer to stay dry, a hotel outside of the city would be strongly recommended. 

May to October: The Rainy season. Firstly, This time is less predictable, in Northern Thailand it tends to rain often in swift, brief afternoon showers. Secondly, Making for humid days with the temps averaging 86F. 

February to April: The smoky season. Best to try and avoid this time of the year as from February to April. Northern Thailand as well as Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam practice a slash-and-burn agricultural practice. As a result, it leave the area covered in smog.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

• Old City: Central location, walking distance to most things you will want to see and do. 
• Nimmanhaemin (or Nimman for short): Trendy area with cafes, shops, and nightlife 
• Riverside: Relaxed, scenic area with riverside hotels and resorts.
• Outskirts and Rural Retreats: Eco-lodges, luxury resorts, and guesthouses in nature – ideal for those seeking tranquility.

Top Things To Do In Chiang Mai

Visiting Temples: Old Town itself has over 300 temples.

1. Wat Phra Singh: Built in 1345, the main entrance is guarded by Singhs (Lions)
2. Wat Chedi Luang: 14th century temple in the center of Old City at that time it was the largest building in Lan Na (The originally name of the kingdom where Chiang Mai is today)
3. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Climb 309 steps to see a breaktaking views of the city, and stunning stupa. Considered to be one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in Thailand.
4. Wat Phra That Doi Kham: A short drive outside the city and a long staircase to the top.
5. Wat Umong: it's a temple a bit outside of town and it consists of tunnels. It's interesting as it is a bit different than the rest you will see.

Note: Temples or sacred places, will not allow you in if your shoulders and knees are not covered.

Old City Exploration: From the Tha Phae Gate to endless templates, you can walk Old City for days to experience the food, culture, and markets here. 

Markets: Night Bazaar, Sunday Walking Street, Saturday Night Market 

Elephant Sanctuaries: A popular to-do for people visiting Chiang Mai is to experience elephants. It is an incredible experience that I highly recommend but make sure you are supporting an ethical elephant sanctuary. As a general rule a true sanctuary will allow you to look but not touch the elephants. 

Outdoor Activities:

• Hiking:
• Zip-lining
• Whitewater Rafting Adventure
• Sticky Waterfall (Nam Tok Bua Tong): calcium-rich spring feeds the waterfall leaving a mineral deposit on the rocks that allows you to walk up the waterfall.
• Grand Canyon Water Park: Outdoor waterpark, swimming, and obstacle course in a man-made quarry.

Cooking Classes: I hear this is a must try experience. However, I have not yet tried one so I don’t have one to recommend but here is options listed on Tripadvisor

Cultural Experiences: Lanna culture, traditional dance performances, and local handicrafts workshops.

Festivals: Loi Krathong (Yi Peng) Lantern Festival which is held on the full moon of the 12th month of the traditional Thai Lunar Calendar. Which usually falls in November. Thousands of people float banana-leaf containers (krathong) decorated with flowers and candles down the waterways of the city in worship of the Goddess of Water. Lanna-style sky lanterns (khom fai or kom loi), which are hot-air lanterns that are launched into the air believed to help rid you of your troubles. 

Songkran (Thai New Year) is held in mid-April which is known for its indiscriminate citywide water fight. 

Museums: Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre. If you want to learn the origin of how Chiang Mai became a city today, about the culture, and the region's importance in history. 

National Parks:  Doi Suthep-Pui National Park and Pha Daeng National Park 

Day Trips From Chiang Mai

1. Doi Inthanon National Park: Highest mountain in Thailand, waterfalls, and nature trails. Doi Inthanon to Chiang Mai is about a 3 hour car drive. 
2. Chiang Rai: White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), and Black House (Baan Dam). Chiang Rai is about 5 hours north of Chiang Mai. 
3. Pai: A laid-back town known for its natural beauty, hot springs, and waterfalls. Roughly a 3 hour drive from Pai to Chiang Mai. Here is a one-day itinerary for Pai
4. Mae Rim: Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden, waterfalls, and adventure activities. The outskirts of Chiang Mai with many hidden gems about a 30 min drive outside the city.

Food and Drink in Chiang Mai

• Local Cuisine: Must-try dishes (Khao Soi, Sai Ua, Nam Prik Ong). Don’t be shy, try the street food. It is a huge part of Thai culture. 
• Cafes and Coffee Culture: Chiang Mai has an incredible cafe culture for coffee lovers, make sure you explore the many cafes in the Nimmanhaemin area.

Shopping

Markets -  Local markets for souvenirs, crafts, and clothing: 

1. Warorot Market -- locally known as Kad Luang (กาดหลวง; "Big Market") is regarded as the largest and most well-known market in northern Thailand. Located at Wichayanon Road, Tambon Chang Moi, and close to Chang Khlan Road.
2. Tha Phae Walking Street -- also known as the Sunday Night Market opens every sunday at 5pm until 10:30 pm for 1 kilometer on Rachadamnoen Road
3. The Saturday night market -- is held along Wua Lai Road on the south side of the city passed Chiang Mai Gate this is a handicraft market. 
4. Jing Jai Market -- is off the beaten path but just as good. Only Saturday and Sunday mornings to afternoon. 

Shopping Malls -  Chiang Mai will not disappoint when it comes to shopping malls: 

1. Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center
2. Central Festival Chiang Mai
3. Central Chiang Mai Airport

Each one has an awesome food court or food market that should not be missed. Grab a snack and shop away.

Boutique Shops: Local designers and unique shops for fashion and home decor. The Nimmanhaemin area is a good place to hit a few within walking distance from each other.

Wellness and Relaxation

- Spas and Massage: You can get a Traditional Thai massage or foot massage almost on every corner. There are also luxury spas, I would highly recommend Oasis Spa for an incredible experience the first class customer service. Oasis has two locations at Nimman and Lanna in Old City.

- Yoga and Meditation: There are many Yoga studios and meditation retreats in and around Chiang Mai.

Practical Tips for Visiting Chiang Mai

Cultural Etiquette: The Thai people are kind and helpful but to show respect to their culture and country it is best to understand some cultural etiquettes. 

• Don’t point your feet or point at someone it is, in fact, considered rude
• Don’t touch someone’s head: The head is considered sacred 
• Don’t disrespect the King: Thailand’s lese majeste law disrespecting the king can land you in prison.
• Do remove your shoes: Before entering temples, someone's home, or even businesses. 
• Do return a Wai: hands together in front and then head slightly bowed. 
• Do show respect to Monks: Above all, treat them with respect 

Money Matters: Most places in Thailand accept credit cards but in the north, especially in more rural areas, it is good to have cash just in case for some restaurants, street vendors, and the market. However, there are exchange counters at Chiang Mai International airport and ATMs are usually close by in the city. You can always exchange or find an ATM at a 7-Eleven.  

Language: Basic Thai phrases useful for travelers. 

• Thank you: khop khun 
• Hello/Goodbye: sawatdee (usually paired with a Wai) 
• No problem/ it’s okay: mai pen rai 
• Toilet: hong nam
• How much: tao rai? 

Internet: Wi-Fi is widely available at cafes and hotels in Chiang Mai and it is easy to stay connected.

Air Conditioning: Even though it is relatively warm year round, AC is a luxury and is not found everywhere. Also, on that note, Thailand has a modest and respectful culture. Regardless of the heat you will not usually see Thai's with their shoulders or knees not covered.

Air quality: While air pollution is a continuing issue in Chiang Mai mostly occurring between December and April where the air quality remains below recommended standards. During the month of March is ‘burn season’ which can make it the worst month to visit Chiang Mai. 

In the End

Chiang Mai is a destination that captivates travelers with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're exploring the ancient temples, savoring the unique flavors of Northern Thai cuisine, or immersing yourself in the vibrant street markets, Chiang Mai offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. From the tranquility of its rural outskirts to the lively hustle and bustle of the Old City, Chiang Mai seamlessly blends the old and the new, providing a perfect escape from the chaos of more urbanized destinations.

Above all, with so many activities to choose from, including trekking in the mountains, visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries, and participating in local festivals, Chiang Mai is more than just a travel destination—it’s an experience. Whether you have a few days or a few weeks, Chiang Mai promises to leave a lasting impression, filled with memories of its stunning landscapes, fascinating culture, and the kind-hearted people who make this city so special.

In conclusion, as you plan your trip, take the time to explore both the well-known attractions and the hidden gems. Engage with the local culture, try the street food, and take a moment to just breathe in the beauty of the surrounding nature. Chiang Mai is not just a place to visit; In fact, it's a place to experience and savor, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the city and its way of life.

Safe travels, and enjoy every moment in this magical corner of Thailand!