Left: Wat Doi Suthep; Right: Wat Phantao during the lantern festival in Chiang Mai
My love for Thailand began in 2009 while leading photo trips for a student travel business in Southeast Asia. Chiang Mai has evolved since then, but my affection for this city remains. Now, I return every winter for a few months and felt it was time to highlight the best experiences in Chiang Mai!
Chiang Mai is the charming, relaxed counterpart to the bustling Bangkok, housing around 200,000 residents. The old city, surrounded by a moat, showcases remnants of the 13th-century Lanna Kingdom. It's a food haven packed with temples and serves as an excellent base for
day excursions featuring waterfalls, trekking, and ethical elephant interactions.
Just outside the old city walls, the eastern area (Tha Phae Gate) is a commercial center filled with markets. To the west lies the trendy Nimmanhaemin Road, popular among digital nomads and tourists alike, known for shopping, cafes, and coworking spaces.
No matter your stay duration, this guide will detail the best things to do in Chiang Mai, including day trips and top hotels and hostels.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, which helps maintain this blog.
Planning Your Trip
Currency: Thai Baht (THB) Best Time to Visit: October to January offers the most pleasant weather. Avoid the smoky season from February to April. Travel Insurance: Ensure coverage with SafetyWing travel medical insurance for accidents and travel delays.
Mobile eSIM Card: Get easy connectivity with
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Top Temples in Chiang Mai
Wat Chiang Man in Chiang Mai's old city
Temples are ubiquitous in Chiang Mai. Be sure to dress modestly when visiting—cover your shoulders and knees; remove hats and shoes. Avoid pointing your feet at others or the Buddha statues as it's deemed disrespectful. My favorite photogenic temples are marked with asterisks! Popular temples charge 20-30 baht for entry, while smaller ones are often free.
Temples Within the Old City Walls
**I've indicated my favorite temples below.
**Wat Phan Tao – A beautifully renovated teak temple.
Wat Phra Singh – This is one of the most frequented temples, known for its Lion Buddha and golden chedis adorned with elephants.
Wat Chedi Luang – The second most popular temple, its brick chedi dates back to 1441 and features remaining elephant statues.
**Wat Chiang Man – The oldest temple, renowned for its elephant chedi from 1297. Ideal for photography.
**Wat Saen Muang Ma Luang (Wat Hua Khuang) – A hidden gem near the north gate, great for stunning photos.
Temples Outside the Old City
Wat Lok Molee – An older temple just beyond the north gate, popular during the lantern festival for its decorations.
Wat Sri Suphan – This silver temple has restrictions against female visitors inside the main area.
**Wat Buppharam and Wat Mahawan – Beautiful Burmese temples close to Tha Phae Gate.
Chiang Mai Old City; Right: Wat Suan Dok
Temples Accessible by Car
Wat Doi Suthep – The most significant temple in Chiang Mai, housing a Buddha relic on a mountain outside the city. Accessible by songthaew or rideshare, or via the Monk's Trail, which includes 300+ steps.
Wat Pha Lat – A small jungle temple along the Monk's Trail.
Wat Umong – A unique cave temple a few kilometers outside the city.
Wat Phra That Doi Kham – This large white Buddha temple sits on a hilltop.
Wat Suan Dok – Located in the Nimman area, known for its picturesque white stupas and meditation retreats.
Left: Doi Inthanon National Park; Right: Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Thong)
Exciting Day Trips from Chiang Mai
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Cooking Classes – Chiang Mai is a culinary paradise, perfect for cooking classes. I enjoyed a full-day experience at Grandma's Cooking School. We crafted six dishes, including dessert, with a photographer capturing each moment! Prices range from 1,200-800 baht ($50-65 USD).
Grand Canyon – This stunning former limestone quarry is perfect for relaxation and swimming. It comprises three sections, including two waterparks with obstacle courses and cliff jumping. Entry ranges from 300-150 baht depending on the area.
Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong) – My favorite! This multi-tiered waterfall features limestone and mineral deposits, making it easy to walk on. Entry is currently free, and it's about a 90-minute drive from the city. Consider a day tour or rideshare via Grab.
Monk's Trail – A scenic hiking route leading to Doi Suthep and passing Wat Pha Lat. The first part is easy, but it gets steep afterward. Plan for around 90 minutes one-way and take a songthaew down.
A baby elephant and her mother at Journey to Freedom, an ethical elephant experience near Chiang Mai.
Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries – Choose ethical companies that don't allow riding, like Elephant Nature Park, offering half, full, and overnight tours, plus volunteer opportunities. For a unique experience, consider Journey to Freedom with multi-day programs.
Meditation Retreat – Wat Suan Dok offers several weekly meditation retreats ranging from one-day to four-day sessions. One-day retreats are free, with donations appreciated. For details, visit monkchat.net.
Monk Chat – Organized by Wat Suan Dok's Buddhist university, chats happen on weekdays from 5-7 p.m. at Wat Suan Dok and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Wat Chedi Luang.
Doi Inthanon National Park – Home to Thailand's tallest peak at 8,415 feet, this park features numerous trails and waterfalls. Located 70 kilometers from Chiang Mai, public transport is limited. Renting a car or hiring a Grab driver is recommended.
Public Parks in Chiang Mai
The Chiang Mai Flower Festival is held at Chiang Mai Chaloem Phrakiat Park from November to early January.
Chiang Mai boasts several hidden parks worth visiting. My favorite is Buak Hard Public Park, the only greenspace in the old city, which serves as a public gym. At sunset, the park fills with locals playing takraw, slacklining, and running. It features workout equipment and a nightly aerobics class for just 20 baht!
Chiang Mai Chaloem Phrakiat Park, the city's largest park, offers paved trails and beautiful landscapes, hosting a free flower festival from November to January. Ideal for jogging!
Chiang Mai Museums
FAM Fahlanna Art Museum features rotating art and cultural exhibits.
For insights into Chiang Mai's history and Lanna culture, visit the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center and Lanna Folklife Center, both located near the Three Kings Monument. Entry for each is 90 baht ($2.89 USD). Perfect spots to escape the heat!
Newly opened, the FAM Fahlanna Art Museum features rotating exhibits on Lanna culture. Entry is 999 baht ($32 USD), or 555 baht with a promotional rate that includes a free drink. While enjoyable, it felt somewhat pricey.
Kalm Village is a free arts and crafts center in a serene three-story building in the old city, offering yoga and craft workshops, plus a restaurant and lounge areas.
Dining in Chiang Mai
Left: Mango sticky rice; Right: Coconut yogurt bowl from Goodsouls Kitchen.
Budget-Friendly Meals Under 100 Baht / $3 USD
Moo Ping Khun Por – A popular breakfast and lunch spot in Nimman, known for moo ping (grilled pork) and sticky rice. 27 Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 11
Anchan Noodle – Famous for blue noodles made from butterfly pea tea, served with various meat choices and spicy sauce. Open for breakfast and lunch. 19/1 Siri Mangkalajarn Rd Lane 9.
Ming Kwan Vegetarian Restaurant – Offers the best vegan khao soi in town, along with delicious veggie Northern Thai sausage. 98 Rachadamnoen Rd Soi 4 (Near Wat Phra Sing)
Mall Food Courts – Malls in Thailand feature affordable food courts with local stalls. The Maya Mall and Central Festival food courts are excellent options for tasty meals around 50-60 baht ($2 USD).
Khao Tom Baht Diao – This spot is the cheapest for food and beer, open from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., perfect for any meal!
Ploen Ruedee Night Market – A trendy food truck market adjacent to the night market, featuring diverse food options and live music. 28/3-4 Changklan Rd.
Chang Phueak (North Gate) Market – A vibrant local food market near the old city, winding down around 9 p.m. Notable highlights include the pork rice lady and the popular sukiyaki spot.
Left: Northern Thai dishes from Huen Muan Jai. Right: The purple butterfly pea noodles from Anchan Noodle.
Meals from 100 baht/$3 USD and Up
(Most options range around 200-250 baht ($7 USD) based on your order.)
Goodsouls Kitchen – A non-vegan's favorite breakfast spot for its fruit bowls and homemade coconut yogurt and granola.
52/2 Singharat Rd.
Khao Soi Nimman (Michelin-Guide listed) – Another top khao soi destination, open later than most. The spicy northern Thai sausage is a must-try. 22 Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 7.
Goodneighbor Cafe – A hidden gem known for bagels and coffee, featuring a relaxed atmosphere. 149, 49 M.2 Soi. Ban Pae, Chang Phueak.
SP Chicken – Specializes in rotisserie chicken and sticky rice, located in the old city near Wat Phra Singh.
Night & Day Restaurant – A local favorite for craft beer and northern Thai cuisine. Their hang lay curry is exceptional. 34, 13, Suthep.
Khao Soy Maesai (Michelin-Guide listed) – Renowned for the best khao soi in town, open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; arrive early for the best selection. 29, 1 Ratchaphuek Alley
Klay Cafe, Groon Bread & Brunch Cafe are among my favorite brunch spots in Nimman, known for their homemade bread and bagels.
Rob's Berry serves delicious
homemade yogurt bowls.
Dinky's BBQ – Authentic Texas barbecue from an Austinite, featuring brisket, pulled pork, and tasty sides.
Huen Muan Jai (Michelin-Guide listed) – A popular Northern Thai restaurant, known for their sampler platter and hung lay curry with pork. 24 Ratchaphuek Alley.
Cherng Doi Roast Chicken (Michelin-Guide listed) – Expect a queue at this spot for its tamarind sauce roast chicken and creative papaya salad options. 2/8 Suk Kasame Rd.
Tong Tem Toh (Michelin-Guide listed) – A bustling Nimman location serving traditional northern Thai favorites like Hang Lay curry and red ant dishes. 11/13 Nimmanahaeminda Road.
The Salad Concept – Ideal for those craving veggies, this spot offers a huge selection of build-your-own salads and wraps. Prices range from 100-150 baht/$4-5 USD for a main course.
The FACES Gallery & Gastro Bar – Located in the old city, this upscale venue serves delicious Thai dishes in a stunning environment. 33 ถนน Ratchamanka Soi 6.
The Hide Out – Known for homemade bagels, it's one of the best breakfast and brunch spots in Chiang Mai, conveniently near Tha Phae Gate.
Accommodation Options in Chiang Mai
The Amanor Hotel features a fantastic rooftop bar in Nimman.
Top Hotels in Chiang Mai
For exceptional hotels in Nimman, consider Hotel YaYee ($38 USD/night) or Amanor Hotel ($138 USD/night), both with rooftop bars. The latter also boasts an infinity pool. Both bars welcome the public. A more intimate, family-run choice is the modern Chern Chiangmai Boutique Hotel ($65 USD/night).
Baan Hanibah ($82/night) in Chiang Mai's Old City is a delightful family-run guesthouse. Marigold Lanna Hotel ($82/night) features a beautiful pool. Rates vary by season.
Best Hostels in the Old City
Top hostels in Chiang Mai's old city include The Common Hostel ($10 USD/night) and Pakping Hostel, both offering private bunks. In Nimman, Ray Hostel and Bed Addict Hostel are popular options, priced around $13-14 USD/night.
Weekly & Monthly Rentals in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai offers various monthly rentals, often booking out quickly. I typically pay $300-400/month for a studio or one-bedroom, with utilities around $50/month. A one-month deposit is generally required.
Mirror Chiang Mai – Family-owned apartments with one- and two-bedroom units from $540-840/month.
Huay Kaew Residence – The most budget-friendly, centrally located option with a pool; studios start around 3,500 baht/$117 USD/month.
Liv@Nimman – A stylish condo with a pool in Nimman, one-bedroom apartments start at $672/month.
Green Hill Place – Modern apartments with pools and a gym near Maya Mall. One-bedroom units start at 10,000 baht/$336 USD.
Live Music & Free Events in Chiang Mai
North Gate Jazz in Chiang Mai's Old City
Chiang Mai has plenty of live music venues and open mic nights. My top picks are North Gate Jazz Co-op (open mic on Tuesdays), Boy Blues Bar, and Thapae East.
One Nimman – This shopping complex hosts free events like dance and yoga classes. Check schedules for updates, as events change often.
Jing Jai Farmer's Market – A must-visit weekly market, featuring fresh produce and unique food stalls. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Best Coworking Spaces in Chiang Mai
Left: Punspace Nimman; Right: The Coco Club coworking in Chiang Mai.
New coworking spaces are emerging frequently, so choose one based on your location. Cafes also make great alternatives. My go-to has always been Punspace, with two locations in the old town since the Nimman branch closed during the pandemic. (Wiang Kaew is the more social option.)
In Nimman, Yellow is a spacious, crowded coworking space, while OpenHub near Maya Mall offers coworking and private offices.
CAMP – A popular 24-hour cafe in Maya Mall, great for working.
Other options include Hub53 (with unlimited and hourly plans) and the luxurious Coco Club, featuring a pool!
Top Gyms in Chiang Mai
Maxx Fitness at Maya Mall
Here's a look at gyms in the Nimman area, which I've personally tried. Prices vary, so check directly with gyms!
Maxx Fitness – The best gym in Nimman, known for its excellent air circulation and new equipment. Monthly membership is 1,699 baht ($50 USD).
Jett Fitness – Located in One Nimman, this small gym has decent equipment, but I prefer Maxx.
Playground Fitness Chiang Mai – This recently relocated gym offers competitive rates starting at 2,000 baht/ $64 USD for monthly memberships.
Harris Fitness Center – A budget-friendly option in the Lotus Hotel, offers classes for free. Rates are 1,250 baht/month ($42 USD).
Gold Hillside Gym & Fitness – Located in Hillside Condo 3, with monthly rates of 1,100 baht ($37 USD).
The Wall Fitness Studio – A new gym behind Maya Mall, great space and equipment available. Monthly and daily passes offered.
49/22 Huay Kaew Rd.
Vira Yoga Studio – A fantastic yoga studio with a great instructor. Check online for class schedules.
Muay Thai Gyms in Chiang Mai
Muay Thai gyms are abundant in Chiang Mai. I recommend Heavy Hit Boxing Gym, known for its focused training sessions by appointment only (1.5 hours, 350 baht). It's an ideal spot for beginners.
Bear Fight Club Chiang Mai offers rigorous training and a lively atmosphere. Classes last around 2.5 hours for 400 baht.
Chiang Mai Muay Thai features frequent classes (1.5 hours) for 390 baht, located in the old city.
Shopping & Markets in Chiang Mai
The art galleries of Baan Kan Wat are just a few miles from Chiang Mai's old city.
Baan Kan Wat – An artist village near the old city filled with galleries and charming cafes, many offering workshops. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Jing Jai Farmer's Market – A unique shopping experience without the typical tourist trinkets. Open every Saturday and Sunday from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar – The main night market open daily from 6 -11:30 p.m., ideal for food, souvenirs, and clothing. Located at the intersection of Chang Khlan Road and Loi Khro Road.
Talat Warorot – A bustling local market for food and affordable goods. Cnr Th Chang Moi & Th Praisani
Sunday Walking Street – A lively market filled with street food and souvenirs, often crowded. Rachadamnoen Rd.
Ploen Ruedee Night Market – A food truck market with diverse offerings, live music, and clothing vendors. 28/3-4 Changklan Rd
Shopping Malls in Chiang Mai
The largest mall is Central Festival, located outside the city center.
Maya Mall and Central Chiang Mai Airport are also significant, featuring movie theaters and pharmacies like Boots and Watsons. You'll find brands like H&M, Zara, and Uniqlo in these malls, which also offer food courts with delicious, affordable Thai cuisine.
Getting a Haircut in Chiang Mai
There are many options for haircuts, but I prefer New York New York in Nimman, an Aveda salon offering quality cuts. Prices range from 550-850 baht ($18-28 USD).
Best Thai Massage in Chiang Mai
Oasis Spa Nimman is one of the finest spas in Chiang Mai.
Oasis Spa offers the best and most luxurious massages, with two locations in Nimman and the Old City. Book before 1 p.m. for a 20% discount! A 90-minute hot oil massage costs around 1,900 Baht ($61 USD) after the discount.
Fah Lanna Spa – Offers a more budget-friendly option at around 1,150 Baht for a 90-minute Thai massage. While nice, it doesn't match Oasis in quality.
For budget-friendly massages, consider Phuphaya Massage and Spa for a 300-baht, hour-long Thai massage, or Sense Massage & Spa, starting at 450 Baht.
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Wat Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai, Thailand
When to Visit Chiang Mai
The optimal time for visiting Chiang Mai is during the dry, cooler months from November to February, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s. Be cautious of the burning season in February and March, which can lead to poor air quality. April and May are hot, while the monsoon rains peak in August and September.
Getting to Chiang Mai
Flying is the easiest way to reach Chiang Mai! There are growing international flight options, including direct routes to Singapore and Hong Kong. Domestic flights connect from Bangkok and other major cities. A train takes around 12 hours from Bangkok, while buses are cheaper ($20) and take about 10 hours.
Local Transport in Chiang Mai
Flag down a red songthaew, a pickup truck with benches in the back, for a cheap lift around town. It's 30 Baht flat rate.
Chiang Mai's transport mainly involves songthaews—pickup trucks with benches—which can be flagged down for 30 baht ($1). I often tell the driver a nearby landmark like Maya Mall or Tha Phae Gate to get around. Supporting songthaews helps keep them in business!
Chiang Mai City Bus Map.
There are two city bus lines servicing the airport for 30 baht. Finding English maps can be challenging, so check the airport for posted maps. Buses may not run on time, and rideshare apps like Grab are more reliable.
Tuk tuks are often a tourist trap and should be avoided unless you negotiate prices similar to rideshare apps.
Car & Motorbike Rentals in Chiang Mai
Motorbikes can be rented for around 200 baht/day ($6.60 USD) at various locations. Be aware that without a Thai or international motorcycle license, many insurance companies won't cover accidents.
SAFETY ALERT: Police checkpoints are common, and fines are 500 baht ($16.50 USD) for lacking a proper license.
I had a positive rental experience with Budgetcatcher Car and Scooter Rental in Nimman, costing around $30/day for a car.
Where to Buy an eSIM Card in Chiang Mai
The simplest option is purchasing a Thailand-specific eSIM card from
Airalo, which activates instantly upon arrival. For multi-country trips, consider their regional eSIM options.
Promotions: New customers can save 15% with NEWTOAIRALO15 and 10% with AIRALOESIM10.
For long stays, buying a local SIM or eSIM upon arrival is the best value. Major carriers include AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove. Bring your passport for verification, as it's a common requirement.
When I arrived, I bought a 30-day plan with 6 GB from AIS for $19. You can top up at 7Elevens or carrier stores.
The monk ceremony during the Yee Peng Festival at Wat Phaotao in Chiang Mai.
One of Chiang Mai's major festivals is the Yee Peng Festival, celebrated during the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually November). This festival of lights coincides with Loy Krathong.
The best spots for the festival include the Three Kings Monument and Ping River for launching krathongs (floats made from banana leaves). Events vary annually, with many temples, like Wat Phantao, hosting ceremonies.
In years past, lanterns were released widely, but safety measures have reduced this practice. While some events focus on lantern releases, many are organized events that may require tickets.
Medical Care in Chiang Mai
Medical services in Thailand's private hospitals are outstanding, efficient, and affordable. In Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai RAM and Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai are the top facilities.
For medications, Dara Pharmacy near Central Festival Mall can provide various prescriptions at significantly lower prices than hospitals.
Visa Extensions in Chiang Mai
Starting July 15, 2024, travelers from the U.S. and 92 other countries receive a 60-day visa on entry. After 60 days, extensions are possible at immigration offices.
For those needing more than 60 days, a visa run might be necessary. Immigration is becoming stricter about visa runs, so it's wise to plan ahead.
In-Person 30-Day Visa Extension Process
The main Chiang Mai Immigration Office is near the airport. (Address: 71 ถนนสนามบิน Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200) Hours are 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. There's also a small office at Central Festival mall.
Upon arrival, grab a number at the entrance booth and fill out application forms outside. Required documents for a 30-day extension include a copy of your passport, entry stamp, proof of accommodation, a passport-sized photo, and the TM.7 application form.
The cost for a 30-day extension is 1,900 baht. Volunteer staff can assist with ensuring your paperwork is correct.
After your number is called, you'll submit your forms and receive a ticket with a number. They'll take your picture and process your request. Expect a lengthy wait, so set aside an entire day.
For holiday closures, check their website.
Online 30-Day Visa Extension Process
As of January 2025, you can apply for an electronic visa extension appointment online, submitting required documents electronically. The visa fee is 1,900 Baht, with additional service fees for processing times.
Border Visa Run from Chiang Mai
If you need more than a 30-day extension, a visa run to a land border or another country is necessary. Note that crossing into Laos requires a two-night stay unless using an agency.
I recently utilized Chiang Mai Visa Run for a border trip, returning the same day with a new 60-day stamp for 4,300 baht ($127 USD), plus an additional 2,000 baht for the Laos visa.
Plan your border run carefully considering recent changes to regulations.
Discover more about Southeast Asia in our other posts!
