Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand surrounded by mountainous terrains and lush countryside. This was easily my favorite city in Thailand due to it’s innocent character in a lively setting. On one end, you have the option to explore the peaceful green scenery, magnificent temples, volunteer at rescued elephant sanctuaries, and learn to cook on farm lands. On the other end, you have expats, digital nomads, and travelers all roaming the vast options of restaurants, bars, markets, and nightlife. This city’s charm will suck you in deep where you’ll soon find yourself staying days over schedule. Welcome to the “Rose of the North.”
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
THAILAND BASIC ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Visit Thailand Travel Guide: How to Get Started to review basic essential information covering topics including visa, weather, money exchange, electrical socket types, internet & cell data, language, and more.
ATM
There are plenty of ATM Machines available around town. Credit card is accepted at modern vendors but many shops and markets are cash only.
WIFI & MOBILE DATA
Wifi and mobile data are easily accessible. Digital nomads will find no problem settling here.
TRANSPORTATION
Chiang Mai is not traffic filled and noisy like Bangkok. You won’t find many cars roaming inside Old City. The only time you’ll need a Grab or Taxi is when you’re traveling to/from the airport. Here are the common transportation options to getting around the city.
Walk or Bicycle: Walking around Old City is easy and safe. You’ll come across many hidden sights and opportunities to go off the beaten path. Old City is not large so it’s relatively quick to walk from one side to the other.
Tuk-Tuk: Relative of the rickshaw. These are three-wheeled motorized vehicles with an open air roofed seating in the back. You can get these by flagging them down or booking in advance. Make sure to negotiate an agreed price beforehand.
Motorcycle Taxi: These are motorcycles that can carry two people comfortably and is a great way to buzz through the city. Getting one of these works the same way as getting a tuk-tuk.
Songthaew: Found in inner cities are pick-up trucks fitted with 2 rows of seats in the back for passengers. They can vary between having set routes like public buses or where their passengers want to go. You’ll be sharing the ride with other people and in some cases won’t start to move until the seats are full. They should be a cheap form of transportation so make sure you’re paying around 20-60 THB per person one way. Most travelers take the Songthaew to visit temples located outside Old City near the mountains.
Taxis: Always make sure to ask your driver to switch on the meter. Some deliberately neglect to do so resulting in customers usually paying a higher lump sum fare.
Grab: Working exactly the same as the Uber app. This is the safest way to get around in cities as the price is set at booking and you can pay by credit/debit card on file or by cash.
Rent a Motorbike/Scooter: This is by far my favorite method for getting around if I cannot walk the distance. On top of freedom and flexibility, it truly allows you to live in the scene and venture off the beaten track. The cost ranges from 150 – 300 THB (5-10 USD) plus gas per day. Shops normally require a deposit of about 1,000 THB or your passport, which I always prefer the former option.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Did you remember to consider getting Travel Insurance? It is not required but highly encouraged when traveling to any foreign country. Chiang Mai is a city filled with outdoor activities and can cause one to get seriously hurt if not careful. On top of that, different climate conditions, insect bites, or trying new types of food can cause one to become seriously ill. Unforeseen accidents do happen and expenses can add up and ruin your trip. The most popular insurance for all types of travelers is World Nomads. Their policies are created specifically with travelers in mind. It doesn’t hurt to Get a Free Quote and decide from there.
HOW TO GET TO CHIANG MAI
CHIANG MAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (CNX)
Chiang Mai International Airport is the main international airport serving Chiang Mai. It is the third busiest airport in Thailand and is the main gateway to Northern Thailand.
BANGKOK HUA LAMPHONG RAILWAY STATION
Traveling by train is a popular choice among travelers due to it’s low cost and unique journey experience. Trains depart from Hua Lamphong Railway Station and costs around 300 – 1,700 THB varying by 3rd – 1st class cabins. The most common route is the overnight train with a sleeper berth, which takes roughly 13 hours. You can purchase tickets at the station or online. Purchasing it at the station is usually cheaper but trains tend to book up fast for good cabins so it is recommended you purchase tickets in advance. You can find schedules and book online through 12go.Asia Online Booking Services. The 12go office to pick up tickets is across the street from the station on the ground floor.
BUS
Taking the bus is the least preferred method as it is a long journey in an uncomfortable ride. Express buses depart from Khao San Road and Deluxe buses can be found at Mor Chit and Viphavadee Bus Terminals. Prices range from 400 – 900 THB depending on seat & company and takes roughly 11 hours. You can find schedules and book online through 12go.Asia Online Booking Services.
WHERE TO STAY IN CHIANG MAI
Most historical and cultural sites reside within Old City. It also contains many shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, markets, and nightlife. Staying outside and around Old City at areas including Nimmanhaemin, Riverside, and Chiang Mai Night Bazaar are also great choices. I was able to walk to and from these areas. Public transportation is also cheap and easy to find.
OLD CITY
Old City is a square layout and is situated within a historical fortress wall and moat. It is the heart of the city and is the reason travelers visit Chiang Mai. It holds many ancient temples, street markets, Thai massage & spas, restaurants, bars, nightlife, and entertainment. Tha Phae Gate located on the west is the most popular side but you can easily walk anywhere within the walls.
Hostel Suggestions:
NIMMANHAEMIN
Nimman is young, modern, and trendy compared to the historical Old City. Chiang Mai University is nearby so many students roam this area giving it a lively atmosphere. Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center and small boutique shops are within the area for shopping needs. You’ll find more locals and expats frequenting the restaurants, bars, and vibrant nightlife around here.
Hostel Suggestions:
CHIANG MAI NIGHT BAZAAR
Located between Old City and Riverside is Chiang Mai’s largest daily night bazaar. It’s a great place to browse and shop while offering delicious street food, bars, and live entertainment. Loh Kroh road is right around the corner offering after-hour bars, discos, and go-go lounges.
Hotel Suggestions:
Hostel Suggestions:
RIVERSIDE
Riverside by the Ping River is for those looking for a peaceful and luxurious atmosphere while retaining the old world charm. Eateries, live entertainment, and the Warorot Day Market line along or near the river bank. You’ll find locals and fishermen hanging out daily by the river.
Hostel Suggestions:
Airbnb is a great option for a more private place, especially if you are going with a group of people. Use my link to get a $40 credit for new users!
BEST THINGS TO DO IN CHIANG MAI
There are many things to do in Chiang Mai and it’s impossible to do it all within a short time span. Here are some of the best things you can do to get started, in no particular order.
1. WAT PHRA THAT DOI SUTHEP
Locals say, “If you haven’t tasted Khao Soi or visited Doi Suthep, then you haven’t really been to Chiang Mai.” Legend has it that a monk carrying a bone shard relic from the shoulder of Guatama Buddha split into two at the base of the mountain. One piece was enshrined at Wat Suan Dok and the second fragment was mounted onto a sacred white elephant left to wander the jungle. The elephant climbed up Doi Suthep mountain, stopped, trumpeted three times, and then dropped dead. King Nu Noane ordered Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to be built at the site to house the bone fragment.
Visitors will need to climb 309 steps or take a tram to reach the temple. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Chiang Mai on a clear day. There is a 30 THB entree fee and it takes about 45 minutes to get here from Old City.
Tip: A cheap and easy way to get to Doi Suthep by Songthaew without having to switch at the zoo area is by heading over to Chang Puak Gate (Northern Gate). Walk directly over to the other side of the moat and you’ll find a Songthaew waiting bay. It costs 60 THB each way and they’ll wait until 10 people fills the vehicle. I do not recommend paying round trip up front as they’ll give you a time limit before going back. You can easily find a Songthaew back down from the top of the mountain.
2. WAT PHA LAT
Wat Pha Lat is a hidden gem nestled in the forest and is often overlooked by travelers making their way to nearby Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Translating to “Temple at the Sloping Rock,” it is a peaceful compound situated by a waterfall and contains flowing streams, ancient sculptures, an assortment of animals, and meditating monks. It was originally intended as a resting place for pilgrims hiking to Doi Suthep but has since become a monk’s residence and meditation retreat. Combine Wat Pha Lat with Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to make an eventful day trip!
You can get here by trekking 40 minutes on Monk’s trail, located at the end of Suthep Road near Chiang Mai University and right of DCondo. The trailhead is indicated by two green signs followed by strips of orange monk robes on trees leading the way.
3. WAT CHEDI LUANG
Wat Chedi Luang used to house the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand’s most sacred relics now housed at Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. Once the tallest structure in Lanna at 82m, the building was greatly damaged by an earthquake in 1545 reducing it by 30m. A reproduction of the relic was placed in celebration of Chedi’s 600th anniversary. This was my favorite temple in Chiang Mai due to the uniqueness of the stone architecture.
4. WAT PHRA SINGH
Wat Phra Singh is the second most ventured temple after Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The famous Phra Buddha Singh statue is housed in the Wihan Lai Kham, a prime example of Lanna Architecture. There are three Phra Buddha Singh in Thailand with each location claiming to be the original. During the Songkran festival, the Phra Buddha Singh is carried through the streets of Chiang Mai for people to honor.
I enjoyed walking around the complex especially the courtyard of wisdom, an area where wise quotes are posted on the trees. There is an entrance fee of 20 THB to visit Wat Phra Singh.
5. WAT CHIANG MAN
Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and was built when King Mengrai decided to construct the new capital of the Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai.
The Chedi Chang Lom (Elephant Chedi) is beautiful and unique in which 15 elephants serve as the base. Wat Chiang Man also houses many rare antiques and artifacts.
6. WAT SUAN DOK
Remember the legend about the bone relic that split into two? Wat Suan Dok is the original place where the relic is to be housed while the second split was brought to Doi Suthep. The white mausoleums next to the temple houses cremation ashes of the royal family members of Chiang Mai.
7. ELEPHANT SANCTUARY
Volunteering at an elephant sanctuary was the highlight of my entire Thailand trip! We got to hang out closely with these majestic giants for an entire day. We fed, hiked, mud and water bathed them. Not only that but we made friends on the trip and started a group named “Less Trump, more Trunk!”
We opted for the Karen Elephant Single Day experience, a program that’s part of the Elephant Nature Park. It’s advised you book way in advance because it’s very difficult to find a vacant spot. We ended up prolonging our stay in Chiang Mai for a couple of days to get this in. It’s a pricey activity, costing 2,500 THB/person, but it’s totally worth splurging for the best thing to do in Thailand!
Riding elephants anywhere in the world is a huge ethical issue. Many travelers are unaware of the brutal training these endangered animals endure to satisfy tourism. Not only are they mistreated, an elephant’s back is very delicate despite their large size. They are not meant to have people consecutively riding on their backs all day long with little water and food. Please only support sanctuaries that treats their elephants with love and care.
8. THAI COOKING CLASS
Do you love all the delicious food in Thailand? Taking a Thai cooking class and learning how to prepare your favorite dishes is the best gift you can buy to take back home. If you have time, opt for a company where you get to cook on their farm land. They’ll introduce you to the ingredients from the market & garden, explain some historical facts, and walk you step-by-step to creating the best authentic dishes!
I was dead set on learning how to cook Khao Soi, my favorite Thai dish originating from Chiang Mai. Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School offered this dish and allows you to cook on their farm land. They did a fantastic job and I would recommend this company to anyone! Classes start at 1,000 THB/person.
9. MARKETS & NIGHT BAZAARS
Shop, eat, and drink at one of the many lively markets in Chiang Mai. You can find hand-crafted goods, street food, and live music & entertainment. Sunday Weekend Market is the most popular near Tha Phae Gate while the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is open daily. Warorot Market along the Ping River is mostly frequented by locals and opens early morning til dusk.
10. GET A THAI MASSAGE
Getting a proper traditional Thai massage, in Thailand, is like being in heaven! It’s extremely rejuvenating for the body and mind after endless hours of exploring the city. It’s extremely cheap, averaging 300 THB, and is almost a crime not to get one every day. They usually run 70+ USD in the United States!
We really enjoyed the service at Lila Thai Massage. They employ women who were ex-inmates in hopes to reduce the conviction rates and improve the community.
11. NIGHTLIFE
Chiang Mai has an exhilarating nightlife scene beyond all the peaceful adventures. Zoe in Yellow is the hottest bar with a dance floor. They play music ranging from pop and hip-hop to electronic dance music. It’s where all the young backpackers go.
I personally prefer Roots Rock Reggae Bar next door. They have live bands performing reggae music. There are many bar options around this area so you shouldn’t have any problems finding something that’ll suit you.
Due to city ordinance, a majority of bars and clubs close at midnight. Don’t worry! That does not stop the party. Ask around to see where everybody is heading to next for after hours. We ended up at Spicy Nightclub to dance and mingle the night away! Lucky’s is another popular after hours spot.
13. OTHER POPULAR THINGS TO DO
- Wat Umong – Ancient temple with underground tunnels.
- Wat Sri Suphan – Temple made of silver. *Ladies are not allowed inside.
- Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls – You can literally climb up the waterfall due to it’s sticky rocks!
- Doi Inthanon National Park – A park located at Doi Suthep mountain.
- Have A Traditional Khantoke Dinner
- Tiger Kingdom – There has been rumors going around where they mistreat there animals. Vicky Taylor, a blogger for Paint me Paradise, had set out to correct these misconceptions. You can Read Her Blog Post Here!
- Three Kings Monument
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN CHIANG MAI
1. STREET FOOD
Most of the tastiest foods I’ve encountered are low cost and found at hole-in-the-walls and street stalls. Let your taste buds run wild by trying all the unique street foods you encounter. They are cheap and small so you can try a little bit of everything. And yes, these are rich and creamy stuffed crab heads!
2. COOKING LOVE
Cooking Love is the restaurant where I had my first and best khao soi. The waitstaff team is extremely nice and they serve you water bottles and dessert, on the house! There are two locations right across the street from each other. We went to the standalone building that was not connected to a guest house.
3. KHA MOO CHANG PHUEAK (COWBOY HAT LADY)
The famous Cowboy Hat Lady food stall gained worldwide attention when Anthony Bourdain ate here. The stewed pork leg with rice is extremely tender and delicious. Plates start at 30 THB for small and 50 THB for large.
4. KHAO SOY MAE SAI
Have you figured out how much I love Khao Soi yet? Khao Soy Mae Sai is a hidden gem located in a small alley way off the main street. Many locals frequent this place and word has started spreading like wild fire to foreigners. A fresh bowl of noodles with a whole tender chicken leg costs only 45 THB!
5. UGO RESTAURANT AND THAI CRAFT BEER BAR
Hop over to Ugo if you’re getting tired of Thai food and want something more modern. The burgers here are phenomenal! They have a mixture of Thai and western food so your options are endless. Don’t forget to try their Thai craft beers!
6. HUEN MUEN JAI
Huen Muan Jai serves up authentic Northern Thai dishes in a nice wooden setting. The menu is quite extensive so gather up a hungry group and try everything from sai ua sausages to gaeng hang lay curry!
7. LERT ROS
Lert Ros is always out in the front grilling up mouth-watering salt crusted fish. I stayed near this restaurant when I was in Chiang Mai and would say hi every morning and evening. Order a side of nam pla prik for extra flavor and spice!
SAMPLE ITINERARY CHIANG MAI 5DAYS/4NIGHTS
DAY 1: ARRIVAL
- Arrive in Chiang Mai
- Hotel Check-in
- Markets
- Dinner
- Bars
- Sleep
DAY 2: DOI SUTHEP
- Breakfast
- Wat Pha Lat
- Lunch
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Thai Massage
- Dinner
- Sleep
DAY 3: ELEPHANT SANCTUARY/THAI COOKING CLASS
- Breakfast
- Elephant Sanctuary (Lunch Included) or Thai Cooking Class
- Thai Massage
- Dinner
- Bars
- Sleep
DAY 4: OLD CITY TEMPLE HOPPING
- Breakfast
- Wat Chiang Man, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh
- Lunch
- Wat Suan Dok
- Explore Nimman Area
- Thai Massage
- Dinner
- Bars
- Sleep
DAY 5: DEPARTURE
- Breakfast
- Hotel Check-Out
- Lunch
- Remember all the good times and cry as you leave Chiang Mai
GENERAL TIPS
- Drink plenty of water and carry a bottle with you. Thailand is hot and touring the city is dehydrating.
- Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites. This means covering shoulders and knees.
- Pointing your toes or turning your back at Buddha is a sign of disrespect.
- Be cautious of scammers and pick pocketing. If you feel as if you are being cheated then walk away.
- Negotiate a set price for tuk-tuks before riding.
- Insist for taxi drivers to turn on their meters. If they refuse then get out and find another one.
- Eat at street stalls and hole-in-the-walls. This is where you’ll find the best food.
- Thailand attracts all type of people from around the world. Always stay cautious at a foreign country and never leave your drinks unattended.
