Overview

Chiang Mai is Thailand's fifth largest city (according to population size) and the capital of Chiang Mai province. Chiang Mai is located on the highest type of hilly terrain of Thailand. 

The city runs along the right bank of Ping river, one of the largest and most important tributaries of Chao Phraya river. Adjacent to Chiang Mai city, in the left bank of Ping river, there is Lamphun town (the township of Lamphun province). These two adjacent urban areas form the Chiang Mai Metropolitan Area. 

Chiangmai is about 700 kilometers north of Bangkok, an important urban area in northern Thailand. Chiangmai is peaceful with a cool climate and ideal terrain, suitable for tourist activities and it is also the metropolis of Chiang Mai province. 

Over the years, Chiang Mai has maintained the tradition of a famous handicraft center, producing products made of silk, wood, silver, and pottery, etc. This is Thailand's largest shopping center for handicrafts.

Temple in Chiang Mai

Temple in Chiang Mai

The most beautiful time in Chiang Mai is from November to March of the next year with the most pleasant weather season that in the morning and evening, it is cold and slightly sunny. This time also has many big festivals such as Loy Krathong, Yi Peng in November, February flower festival. 
Early in the year also time for sakura flowers blooming all the roads. Therefore, Chiang Mai around this time is very crowded with travelers.

The most popular experiences in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Ancient Town

Chiang Mai Ancient Town is home to many ancient temples, lovely restaurants, and historic houses with bold historical features. The most beautiful temples are Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Phan Tao.

Doi Inthanon

It is the most famous national park in Chiang Mai. With a day trip from the center of Chiang Mai, you will discover the magnificent waterfall, the temple on the summit of Doi Inthanon for the panoramic view of the city. The most interesting thing is to go trekking in the green forest, or watch terraced fields and visit the village of ethnic people. 

Doi Inthanon

Doi Inthanon

Zipline

If you are looking for something adventurous, then try Flight of the Gibbon. With this game, you will be able to fly through the thousands of forests of northern Thailand like Tarzan. It will be an unforgettable adventure. 

Cruise along Mae Ping River

If you are into relaxing and admiring romantic scenes, then take a boat tour along the banks of the Mae Ping River. Stop to visit a local farm and an herbal or fruit garden - or enjoy a dinner with candlelight on board.

Cooking class

Chiang Mai is the most popular place for cooking classes. You will go to the local market and learn about Thai food then cook some dishes and enjoy that.

Thai massage

Massage is a must-try experience when coming to Chiang Mai

  • Massage by a former prisoner.
  • Massage at the Sunday Night Market or anywhere in the Ancient Town
  • Luxurious massage at Oasis Spa Chiang Mai

Where to stay in Chiang Mai

Areas

  • Chiang Mai Ancient Town: convenient to join the city's activities and accessible to weekend markets and nightlife spots. 
  • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is located between the old town and the riverside, very central and easy to access.
  • Nimman Road near the Maya Shopping Center and the food court area sell a lot of cheap food. Nimman has many nice cheap apartments. 

Some suggestions about places to stay

Cheap hotels 

  • Le Loftel Hostel Chiang Mai
  • Pyur Otel
  • Hostel by bed

Budget hotels

  • Le Pure hotel
  • Nanya Hotel Chiang Mai
  • Si Phum Heritage Boutique Bed & Breakfast

Veranda High Resort

Veranda High Resort

Luxurious hotels

  • Le Charcoa Hotel
  • Moondragon Hotel Chiang Mai
  • De Charme Hotel

Nightlife in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s Ladyboy Cabaret Show

It is the city's most popular show. Located in the Night Bazaar night market, this show is very worth seeing, in which the artists in splendid costumes perform are very attractive, ensuring to bring you a great night.

Khantoke dinner & watching the traditional dance

You will savor delicious traditional dishes of Chiang Mai while enjoying Thai dance performances and circus acts.

Nimmanhemin

Most nightlife spots at Nimdam are located just south of the Maya luxury shopping center. The most concentrated places are Mirror Café (a beer/bar with billiards and live music), LISM, LVMC (Living Machine Chiang Mai), Rush Bar and Wanz Café.

Loi Kroh Road - a few minutes ’ walks from the Old Town and the night market. 

The CM Entertainment Complex is a narrow alley, with many bars. Muay Thai boxing is located at the end of Loi Kroh Road. The bars in Chiang Mai Entertainment Complex have live sports screens, billiard tables, and dart boards. Every bar plays EDM music, pop music, and rock music.