Visit Chiang Mai
Former capital of the Lanna kingdom, Chiang Mai combines centuries-old Buddhist temples, a walled old town and lush green mountains. Nicknamed the Rose of the North, it draws visitors with its crafts, lively markets and easy access to the scenery and villages of the surrounding highlands.
Why visit Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai is known for its moated old town, hundreds of Buddhist temples and its role as a gateway to the mountains of northern Thailand. The city offers a cooler climate than the rest of the country and a rich craft tradition.
Chiang Mai highlights
Six experiences to discover the cultural and natural heritage of the Rose of the North.
Walled Old Town
Surrounded by a moat and remnants of ancient walls, the square old town holds most of Chiang Mai's historic temples within easy walking or cycling distance.
Wat Phra Singh
An emblematic old town temple dating back to the fourteenth century, known for its classic northern Thai architecture and ancient murals.
Doi Suthep
A temple perched on a hill overlooking the city, reached by a naga-flanked staircase, offering a panoramic view especially popular at sunrise.
Night Market
A must-visit market offering local crafts, silk, woodcarvings and street food, ideal for soaking up the city's lively commercial atmosphere.
Mountain Trekking
Hikes through the surrounding hills to visit hill tribe villages, passing terraced rice fields and lush tropical forest along the way.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Home to Thailand's highest peak, this national park features waterfalls, forest trails and panoramic views over the fertile Ping river valley.
What to discover in Chiang Mai?
Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai, Chiang Mai's square old town still holds dozens of well-preserved temples, including Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, valuable witnesses to the rich legacy of the former Lanna kingdom that once ruled over this part of the country for centuries. Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, perched on nearby hills above the city, offers a sweeping panoramic view over the valley below and remains an important pilgrimage site for Thais travelling from across the country to honour their Buddhist faith.
Beyond its temples, Chiang Mai stands out for its lively markets, such as the famous night market or the Sunday walking street, where silver crafts, silk and northern specialities like khao soi can be found. The city also serves as a convenient base for trekking in the surrounding mountains, visiting nearby hill tribe villages, and exploring Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand's highest peak.
Practical information
Province
Chiang Mai
Population
More than 1.2 million in the metropolitan area
Language
Thai (Northern Thai dialect also spoken)
Currency
Thai baht (THB)
Time zone
UTC+7
Climate
Tropical savanna, cool season from November to February
Best time to visit
November to February
Elevation
About 300 metres
Chiang Mai in pictures
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
The cool season, from November to February, offers the most pleasant temperatures and generally clear skies, ideal for exploring temples and heading out for treks into the surrounding mountains nearby.
How do you get to Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai International Airport connects directly to Bangkok and several other major Asian cities every day. Overnight sleeper trains and long-distance buses also link the city quite comfortably to the capital.
How many days should you spend in Chiang Mai?
Three to four days allow time to explore the old town and its temples, visit Doi Suthep, and set aside a day for trekking or an excursion to nearby hill tribe villages.
When does the Yi Peng lantern festival take place?
The Yi Peng festival takes place every year during the November full moon, alongside Loy Krathong, drawing many visitors who come to watch thousands of sky lanterns rise into the night.
Is Chiang Mai suitable for families?
Yes, the city offers varied activities for all ages, from accessible temple visits to lively markets and easy nature excursions, all set in a calmer atmosphere than the large coastal cities.
Can Chiang Mai be combined with other northern destinations?
Yes, Chiang Rai, Pai and Doi Inthanon National Park are all within just a few hours' drive, which makes it easy to extend the exploration of northern Thailand even further.
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