Chiang Mai, Thailand
Introduction
Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of Northern Thailand. It’s a city known for its temples, night markets, food scene, and adventures in the surrounding mountains. How many days you spend here really depends on how many activities you want to squeeze in, but I’d recommend 3–4 days to get the most out of it.
Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of Northern Thailand. It’s a city known for its temples, night markets, food scene, and adventures in the surrounding mountains. How many days you spend here really depends on how many activities you want to squeeze in, but I’d recommend 3–4 days to get the most out of it.
Things to do in Chiang Mai
Take a Thai Cooking Class
I joined a class with Thai Kitchen Cookery Center, and it was one of my favorite experiences in Chiang Mai. The class starts with a visit to the Gate Market, where you’ll see local ingredients and try snacks before cooking.
- Full-day class: 1,000 baht (7 dishes)
- Half-day class: 800 baht (5 dishes)
I did the half-day and still cooked some of the best food I had in Thailand.
Try Local Food at the Gate Market
Even if you skip a cooking class, visit Gate Market on your own. Most locals head there early in the morning—it’s open from 4 a.m. to 11 a.m. It’s one of the best ways to see daily life and try authentic snacks.
Get a Thai Massage
At some point during your trip, you should get a Thai massage, and Chiang Mai is the perfect place. Spas are everywhere, from budget to high-end.
I went to Lila Thai Massage, a spa that employs ex-inmates to give them opportunities to reintegrate into society. It costs a little more than the average spa, but it was absolutely worth it.
Have a Night Out at Lanna Square
Lanna Square is the center of nightlife in Chiang Mai, with street food stalls, live music, and plenty of bars. If you’re looking for something wilder, check out Zoe in Yellow, the most famous (and chaotic) backpacker bar in the city.
Visit the Temples
By this point, I was a little “templed out” after Bangkok—but Chiang Mai is home to some beautiful ones if you’re up for it:
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – the must-see, perched on a mountain just outside the city
- Wat Chedi Luang – a historic temple in the Old City
- Wat Phra Singh – known for its golden Buddha and ornate architecture
See Elephants Up Close
Chiang Mai is the gateway for elephant experiences, but please be mindful: not every sanctuary is ethical.
If you’re riding, bathing, or even touching elephants, it’s not ethical. The only responsible sanctuaries allow you to observe elephants in their natural environment, from a respectful distance. Do your research before booking.
See Elephants Up Close
Chiang Mai is the gateway for elephant experiences, but please be mindful: not every sanctuary is ethical.
If you’re riding, bathing, or even touching elephants, it’s not ethical. The only responsible sanctuaries allow you to observe elephants in their natural environment, from a respectful distance. Do your research before booking.
Take a Day Trip to Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon is Thailand’s highest mountain, a gorgeous escape with hiking trails, waterfalls, and the chance to spot wildlife. Perfect if you need a break from city life.
Dan Tewada Land of Angels Waterfall Park
I didn’t make it here, but I wish I had. The park is a bit outside of Chiang Mai, so you’ll need a scooter or tuk-tuk. It’s man-made but striking, with waterfalls, photo spots, and a café where you can relax.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is divided into the Old City (a square area surrounded by canals) and the New City. The Old City is where most of the action happens, but accommodation is a little pricier. Most tours and activities start from outside the Old City, so keep that in mind.
- Baan Lung Poshtel – Cozy, affordable, tucked in a quiet alley inside the Old City. Guests rave about the friendly owners and comfortable beds.
- The Yard Hostel – Inside the Old City, with free breakfast, toiletries, and even yoga classes most days.
- Mad Monkey – Known worldwide as the party hostel chain. Expect loud music, dancing, and drinking every night. Located outside the Old City.
- Family Home 2 – Just outside the Old City. Voted “Most Popular Hostel in Chiang Mai” and “Best Small Hostel in Asia.” Affordable, with free breakfast and dinner, plus group activities every night.
Budget for hostels: 150–350 baht per night
How to get there
- Train – The most popular way, but also the longest (13–14 hours). Most people take the overnight train with sleeper beds so they arrive rested. Cheapest option.
- Bus – Around 10–11 hours. A VIP bus is worth the extra money: more comfortable seats, snacks, and meals included.
- Flight – Chiang Mai has an airport, and flights are only 1–2 hours. More expensive, but a great option if you’re short on time.
Book trains and buses on 12go Asia. I highly recommend using the website rather than the app.
- Train – The most popular way, but also the longest (13–14 hours). Most people take the overnight train with sleeper beds so they arrive rested. Cheapest option.
- Bus – Around 10–11 hours. A VIP bus is worth the extra money: more comfortable seats, snacks, and meals included.
- Flight – Chiang Mai has an airport, and flights are only 1–2 hours. More expensive, but a great option if you’re short on time.
Book trains and buses on 12go Asia. I highly recommend using the website rather than the app.
A few things to know
- Wear shoes you can slip on and off easily (for temples, but also some shops).
- Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples.
- Burning season (February to April) brings smoky skies and poor air quality.
- Scooters are handy but traffic can be chaotic. Always record a video of your scooter when renting.
- Watch out for scams with taxis, scooters, and tours.
- Avoid exploitative tours—especially elephant camps or those that seem “too cheap to be true.”
Budget Breakdown
|
Category |
Cost (baht) |
|
Meals |
90–300 (street food to sit-down restaurants) |
|
Hostels |
150–350 per night |
|
Scooter Rental |
200–350 per day plus gas |
|
Activities |
100–2,000 |
Chiang Mai is a city where you can do it all—explore temples, learn to cook Thai food, hike mountains, and spend nights surrounded by music and street food. Whether you’re chasing culture, nature, or nightlife, you’ll find it here.
If you’re looking for a full Thailand itinerary check out my Thailand WanderSnapshot.