As Thailand’s second-largest city, Chiang Mai attracts visitors worldwide with its rich cultural heritage and tranquil old city atmosphere.
- Weather
The cool season from November to February has pleasant temperatures, making it the best time to visit Chiang Mai. The hot season from March to May is the hottest time of the year. The rainy season from June to October often sees frequent rain, but temperatures are relatively cooler. -
Popular Attractions
Chiang Mai Old City: As the capital of the Lanna Kingdom in the 13th century, Chiang Mai holds many historical marks, the most significant being the Old City. Within the Old City, you can find numerous historic buildings, including the well-preserved wooden city gate “Tha Phae Gate”, the tallest structure “Wat Chedi Luang”, and the first royal temple built during Chiang Mai’s establishment, “Wat Chiang Man”. In addition to admiring these culturally rich architectural wonders, you can stroll through the narrow streets filled with exquisite handicraft shops and traditional Thai massage parlors, allowing you to experience the charm of Thai culture.
Chiang Mai Night Safari: Located at the foot of Doi Suthep, this night safari is famous for its rare animals and opportunities for close encounters with wildlife. The park is divided into herbivore and carnivore zones, as well as walking trails. You can take an open-air tram through the zoo to observe animals like lions, tigers, and giraffes in their natural habitats. Additionally, the night safari features various shows, including fire performances and circus acts, providing a unique entertainment experience.
Doi Suthep: A landmark attraction in Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep is one of Thailand’s famous Buddhist holy sites. From the mountain’s summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city, which is particularly enchanting at sunset. At the base of the mountain, there are numerous stalls selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Located on Doi Suthep, this is one of the most popular temples in Chiang Mai. Built in 1383 during the Lanna Kingdom, it gets its name from the two dragon statues that sit on either side of the steps. The temple is renowned for its impressive stupa and unique historical significance. Inside, you can admire ancient murals and sculptures while soaking in the tranquil and sacred atmosphere. Each year during the Songkran Festival, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep serves as a major venue for celebrations.
Mae Sa Elephant Camp: It is a featured attraction in Chiang Mai. Here, visitors not only can enjoy performances and acrobatics by elephants but also can ride on the backs of elephants through the primitive forest to have close contact with elephants and feel the beauty of nature.
Doi Inthanon National Park: It is one of Thailand’s most famous national parks, known for its waterfalls, wooden pathways, ancient villages, birdwatching, and two memorial Buddhist pagodas. Home to Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon (2,565 meters), it is often called the “Roof of Thailand”. It is perfect for travelers seeking to escape the hustle and connect with nature.
- Chiang Mai Night Markets
Chiang Mai has a vibrant night market culture, with countless markets offering a variety of styles and experiences. The opening times vary – some operate on Saturdays, others on Sundays, and some are open on specific weekdays or certain days of the month. If you’re interested, it’s a good idea to check the relevant information in advance to plan your visit.
The most unmissable night market is the Sunday Night Market located along the main road of Chiang Mai Old City. As dusk approaches, vendors from all over Chiang Mai set up their stalls, attracting numerous visitors and locals for a lively atmosphere. The market is filled with a variety of goods, including handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and local delicacies. Here, you can discover unique souvenirs and gifts while savoring authentic Thai cuisine. Additionally, there are street performances between the stalls, so take a moment to enjoy the entertainment while exploring the market.
- Transportation Guide
The most common mode of transportation in Chiang Mai is the songthaew, which features two rows of seats facing each other. Songthaews can be either fixed-route or on-demand. Fixed-route songthaews are color-coded for direction. The red ones are on-demand. They are the most numerous and can be flagged down anywhere. Fares vary by distance, so it’s best to confirm the destination and price before getting on, paying when you exit.
Another popular option is the tuk-tuk, a uniquely modified three-wheeled motorcycle taxi, often marked with “TAXI” on the front. Tuk-tuks typically accommodate 2 to 4 passengers, depending on the size of the back seat. Their routes are flexible, allowing you to negotiate the route and fare with the driver.
