Discover Chiang Mai: Rose of the North
A City of Ancient Temples, Lush Mountains, and Creative Vibes
Chiang Mai, nestled in the mountainous region of Northern Thailand, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the 'Rose of the North,' it offers a more relaxed pace than Bangkok, featuring hundreds of ancient temples within its Old City walls and beyond, lush countryside with ethical elephant sanctuaries, renowned cooking classes, vibrant markets, and a thriving arts and cafe scene, particularly in the trendy Nimman area.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai provides diverse accommodation options. Stay within the historic Old City for easy access to temples and markets, choose the trendy Nimman area for modern cafes and boutiques, relax by the Ping River, or find budget-friendly guesthouses scattered throughout. Options range from luxurious resorts to charming Lanna-style boutique hotels and backpacker hostels.
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
An award-winning luxury boutique hotel built around a historic teak homestead. Offers opulent suites with balconies, lush gardens, a stunning pool, and exceptional service near the Ping River.
View Details & RatesRachamankha Boutique Hotel
A serene and luxurious heritage hotel within the Old City, known for its beautiful Thai Lanna architecture, antique decor, tranquil courtyards, library, and pool.
View Details & RatesAkyra Manor Chiang Mai
A luxurious all-suite hotel in the trendy Nimman area. Features contemporary design, spacious suites with outdoor bathtubs, and a popular rooftop infinity pool and bar (Rise Bar).
View Details & RatesThai Akara - Lanna Boutique Hotel
A refined boutique hotel in the Old City housed in a Colonial-Lanna style building. Offers comfortable rooms, an airy restaurant, and a pleasant courtyard pool.
View Details & RatesThe Common Hostel
A highly-rated, modern hostel located conveniently within the Old City. Offers clean dorms and private rooms, a social atmosphere, and good value.
View Details & RatesThings to Do in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is famed for its ancient temples, ethical elephant encounters, vibrant markets, and opportunities to learn about local culture through cooking classes and workshops.
Explore the Old City Temples
Wander the moat-encircled Old City and visit its numerous historic temples. Key sites include Wat Phra Singh (housing an important Buddha image), Wat Chedi Luang (with its impressive ruined chedi), and Wat Phan Tao (a beautiful wooden temple).
Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
A must-do trip up the mountain overlooking Chiang Mai. Climb the 306 Naga-lined steps (or take the funicular) to reach this sacred temple with its stunning golden chedi and panoramic city views. Dress respectfully.
Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Visit
Spend a day or half-day interacting responsibly with rescued elephants. Choose a reputable sanctuary (like Elephant Nature Park or Chang Chill) that prioritizes elephant welfare (no riding). Activities often include feeding, walking with, and bathing the elephants.
Take a Thai Cooking Class
Chiang Mai is renowned for its cooking schools. Learn to prepare classic Northern Thai and Thai dishes. Classes typically include a local market tour to learn about ingredients followed by hands-on cooking instruction.
Explore Night Markets (Night Bazaar & Walking Streets)
Experience Chiang Mai's vibrant markets. The Night Bazaar on Chang Klan Road operates daily, offering souvenirs, clothing, and food. Don't miss the huge Sunday Walking Street Market (Tha Pae Gate) or the Saturday Walking Street Market (Wua Lai Road) for handicrafts and local goods.
Wander Nimmanhaemin Road (Nimman)
Explore Chiang Mai's trendiest neighborhood. Nimman is packed with stylish cafes, boutique shops, art galleries, co-working spaces, and modern restaurants and bars.
Northern Thai Cuisine (Lanna Food)
Dishes to Seek Out in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai offers unique Northern Thai (Lanna) cuisine. Must-tries include Khao Soi (egg noodle curry soup), Sai Oua (northern Thai sausage), Gaeng Hung Lay (Burmese-style pork belly curry), and various Nam Prik (chili dips) served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice. Explore local markets and eateries for authentic flavors.
Chiang Mai Nightlife
Live Music, Craft Beer, and Relaxed Bars
Chiang Mai's nightlife is generally more relaxed than Bangkok's. Find excellent live music venues (jazz at North Gate Jazz Co-Op, blues at Boy Blues Bar). The Nimman area offers trendy bars and craft beer spots (like Beer Lab). The Old City has numerous casual bars and pubs, while the area around Loi Kroh Road has more hostess bars.
Essential Travel Tips
- Currency: Thai Baht (THB).
- Language: Thai (Northern Thai dialect also spoken). English is common in tourist areas.
- Getting Around: Songthaews (red shared taxis) are common for getting around the city (negotiate fare or hop on fixed routes). Tuk-tuks are available. Grab app works well. Renting a scooter is popular but requires caution and proper licensing/insurance.
- Connectivity: Buy a Thai SIM card at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) or city shops.
- Best Time to Visit: Cool/Dry season (Nov-Feb) offers pleasant weather but is peak season. Hot season (Mar-May). Wet season (Jun-Oct) is green but has rain. Note: 'Burning season' (approx Feb-Apr) can cause poor air quality due to agricultural burning.
- Temple Etiquette: Dress respectfully (cover shoulders and knees) when visiting temples.
- Elephant Sanctuaries: Research thoroughly and choose truly ethical sanctuaries that do not offer riding or unnatural performances.
- Climate: Generally cooler than southern Thailand, especially in the cool season (Dec-Jan), particularly at higher elevations like Doi Suthep.