Chiang Mai, located in Northern Thailand, is often cited as a “must-visit” when in Thailand, due to its rich cultural heritage (meaning lots of beautiful temples to visit), a more relaxed pace compared to other Thai cities like Bangkok, and elephants (here’s a list of truly ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, personally researched and vetted by me).
Below is a comprehensive Chiang Mai travel guide, including insider tips, the best time to visit, top things to do, what to avoid, and where to stay.
Insider tips for visiting Chiang Mai
- If you’re heading to Chiang Mai from Chiang Rai in the afternoon (any time after 12pm), sit on the left side of the bus. If you sit on the right, you’ll be in the sun the whole time.
- Despite the slower pace of life, Chiang Mai is Thailand’s 3rd biggest city, and its city centre can still get busy (though way less than Bangkok) and won’t necessarily provide that “slow pace” of life you’re seeking. For a more peaceful experience while still being in close proximity to everything, I recommend staying by the river. I stayed at this lovely riverside boutique hotel in Chiang Mai; it was quiet and calm, and the food at the on-site restaurant was also authentic and delicious.
- Chiang Mai is known for its cafe culture, but don’t hesitate to try local Thai dishes and meals too. A popular Northern Thai dish is Khao Soi, a spicy coconut curry noodle soup with a flavourful broth.
- The Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai is geared towards tourists and can get extremely crowded. Instead, look for Walking Streets Markets; on Saturdays it’s at Wualai Road, on Sundays it’s along Ratchadamnoen Road in the Old City.
- Chiang Mai has a slightly milder climate compared to other parts of Thailand, with less humidity, due to its location and elevation. However, it can still get warm and humid during the day, especially if you’re out and about and exploring, and it’s unlikely you will need a jacket.
When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai’s seasonal changes can have an impact on your travel experience there, so here are the best months to visit and which ones to avoid.
- February to April: This is the time when farmers burn their crops, so the air gets smoky and the air quality is unhealthy. It’s not a great time to visit, especially if you have asthma, sinus issues, or respiratory problems. However, the popular Songkran Festival (Thai New Year) happens in mid-April.
- May to October: This is the rainy season in Chiang Mai, but it also means more green and lush vegetation. The rain doesn’t usually last all day but is more like short and heavy downpours in the late afternoon. However, this also means a more humid climate.
- November to February: These months are a great time to visit Chiang Mai as it’s considered the cooler and drier season, with mild weather and crisp mornings and evenings. This also means lower humidity, but it’s also unfortunately the high tourist season, with higher prices and more crowds everywhere.
What are the best things to do in Chiang Mai?
Visit temples
Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage means there are plenty of temples to visit, both inside Chiang Mai’s old city area, and outside. Visiting temples is a must on any Chiang Mai itinerary.
Temples Inside Chiang Mai’s Old City:
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Famous for its partially ruined chedi that dominates the centre of the temple grounds.
- The chedi was damaged by an earthquake in the 1500s, which is why it looks dramatically unfinished today.
- The grounds are spacious, making it a nice temple to wander slowly without feeling rushed.
- Wat Phan Tao
- One of the most distinctive temples in Chiang Mai thanks to its beautiful teakwood assembly hall, which was originally built as part of a royal residence.
- Located right next to Wat Chedi Luang, making it an easy stop when exploring the Old City.
- The dark wooden architecture feels very different from Chiang Mai’s more common gold-and-white temples.
- During the rainy season, the small pond and lotus-filled grounds create a particularly peaceful setting.
- It’s not the largest or most elaborate temple in the city, but there’s something charming about its simplicity and craftsmanship that makes it memorable.
- Wat Chiang Mun
- The oldest temple in Chiang Mai, founded in 1297, and known for its elephant chedi from 1297 (chedi means stupa, which is a dome-shaped Buddhist monument used to house holy relics)
- Much quieter than some of the city’s headline temples.
- Known for its ancient Buddha images and a chedi supported by rows of carved elephant statues.
- It feels like a little pocket of old Chiang Mai tucked away from the crowds.
- Wat Saen Muang Ma Luang (Wat Hua Khuang)
- A lesser-visited temple near the Old City that many people walk past without noticing.
- The red-and-gold details are especially beautiful, and the grounds usually feel peaceful.
- Wat Phra Singh
- One of the most important temples inside Chiang Mai’s Old City, dating back to the 1300s.
- Known for its beautiful Lanna-style architecture and intricate gold details.
- The temple houses the revered Phra Buddha Sihing image, one of northern Thailand’s most important Buddha statues.
- Insider tip: I recommend visiting Wat Phra Singh in the late afternoon when the sunlight hits the temple buildings and everything glows a little.
Temples just outside Chiang Mai’s Old City
- Wat Lok Molee
- Instantly recognisable because of its dark wooden viharn and large brick chedi, giving it a moodier, atmospheric feel.
- Located just outside the Old City walls, so it’s easy to combine with other temple visits.
- The architecture feels noticeably different from many of Chiang Mai’s more polished gold temples.
- Wat Sri Suphan (“Silver Temple”)
- Often called the “Silver Temple” because of its striking silver-coloured metalwork.
- The craftsmanship here is incredible; every surface seems covered in detailed patterns and carvings.
- It sits in Chiang Mai’s traditional silversmith district, which makes the setting feel even more fitting.
- The temple looks particularly beautiful in the evening when the lights start reflecting off the silver surfaces.
Temples a bit outside of Chiang Mai’s city centre
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Probably the most famous temple in Chiang Mai, and the busiest.
- The temple sits high up on Doi Suthep mountain overlooking the city. The classic way to reach Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is by climbing the 306-step staircase. There’s also a tram if you’d rather skip the cardio and leg workout.
- The giant serpent statues lining up the steps are pretty spectacular.
- The golden chedi is the heart of the temple and catches the light beautifully, especially in the morning.
- Wat Pha Lat
- Hidden in the forest on the way up to Doi Suthep and one of the most peaceful temples around Chiang Mai.
- Surrounded by jungle, mossy stone pathways and small waterfalls.
- It feels more like a forest sanctuary than a city temple.
- If you walk part of the Monk’s Trail, this is usually where you’ll arrive first.
- Wat Suan Dok
- Known for its large white cemetery-like collection of chedis containing the ashes of Chiang Mai’s former royal family.
- The wide open grounds make it feel very different from the more crowded temples in the Old City.
- Home to a large golden chedi and an active monastic community.
- It’s a lovely place around sunset when the white stupas begin to glow in the softer light.
- Wat Umong (“cave temple”)
- A forest temple famous for its ancient meditation tunnels hidden beneath a chedi.
- The grounds are spread out beneath huge trees, making it feel cooler and quieter than the city centre.
- There’s a peaceful pond where turtles and fish gather.
- If you’re looking for a temple that feels contemplative rather than grand, this is probably the one.
- Wat Phra That Doi Kham
- Perched on a hillside south of Chiang Mai with sweeping views over the countryside.
- Best known for its enormous seated Buddha overlooking the landscape.
- The views are especially beautiful in the late afternoon, when the mountains start to fade into the distance.
How to behave respectfully at Buddhist temples
These rules also apply to other temples and religious sites, including churches and mosques.
- Dress modestly: shoulders, chest, and knees should be covered.
- Do not take photos of people without permission, especially monks and people praying.
- If people are worshipping, try not to stand directly in front of them for photos.
- Do not point your feet at Buddha statues. And never touch Buddha statues with your feet.
- Do not turn your back on the Buddha, as this is considered disrespectful; don’t pose in front of the statues for photos.
- Remove your shoes before entering temple buildings.
- Speak quietly and keep your phone on silent if possible.
- Don’t touch monks, especially if you are a woman.
- Some temples, like the Silver Temple, strictly prohibit women from entering. Please respect these rules.
- Do not engage in any PDA (physical displays of affection).
- Sit with your feet tucked behind you rather than stretched out toward the altar.
- Move slowly and respectfully — temples are active places of worship, not tourist attractions.
- A small donation is always appreciated, though never imposed.
See elephants ethically
One of the top things to do in Chiang Mai is to visit elephants, but unfortunately, many so-called sanctuaries are not really ethical, as they allow close interactions like bathing, petting, feeding, close photo ops, and walking very closely to the elephants. Close interactions with wild animals like elephants mean that the elephants were harshly trained to obey, something called phajaan, aka “crushing their spirit”.
Below is a list of truly ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai and those to avoid. For full details, read how to see elephants ethically in Chiang Mai, which includes details about each ethical sanctuary and greenwashing things to watch out for.
List of truly ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai (no greenwashing)
Most, if not all, include pickup and drop-off in Chiang Mai.
- Eve79 Elephant Sanctuary (here’s my personal experience at Eve79)
- Elephants Eco Trail
- Isara
- Bees sanctuary
- Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary
- Mahout’s elephant foundation
- BLES (Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary)
The list of unethical ones to avoid is listed below, under the “Activities to avoid in Chiang Mai” section.
Attend a Muay Thai fight or take a class
Muay Thai is Thai boxing, where fighters use eight points of contact (two fists, two elbows, two knees, and two shins), unlike in Western boxing where only two contact points are used. It’s a physically demanding martial art, and it also involves lots of cardio. If you don’t feel like watching a fight, you can always take a class. I took a Muay Thai boxing class, and I felt empowered and strong, though I was definitely a bit sore after.
Insider tip: if you’re taking a class, bear in mind that some gyms might smell like feet and sweat for two reasons: you don’t wear shoes for Muay Thai, and also lots of men (especially tourists and “expats”) somehow decided that it’s totally ok to be shirtless while they’re sweating profusely in a shared gym space. It’s honestly so gross and disrespectful.
Museums
There are a few museums in Chiang Mai to visit to learn a bit more about Northern Thai culture.
Chiang Mai National Museum
The Chiang Mai National Museum focuses on the history of the Kingdom of Lanna, a Tai-Yuan kingdom that lasted for 5 centuries (until the 18th century). The museum is also a research center for the conservation of Lanna culture and is an educational space to learn about the provinces of Northern Thailand.
The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and the fee is about 100 THB (about €2.60) per person, paid in cash.
Sbun-nga Textiles Museum
The Sbun-nga Textiles Museum (also known as Saban-nga or Sabun-nga) is a private museum that displays traditional and royal textiles, not just from Northern Thailand but also from neighbouring countries (Laos and Myanmar). The owner and curator of the museum, Akkadet Nakbanlang is there to guide visitors if you book a private tour.
The museum’s entry fee is 50 THB to 200 THB per person (€ 1.30 – € 5.31), depending on whether you book a private tour. Find opening hours here.
Highland People Discovery Museum
The Highland People Discovery Museum in Chiang Mai, also known as the Tribal Museum, is a great place to learn about the diverse hill tribes in northern Thailand, including the Karen, Hmong, Lisu, Akha, and Mien.
The museum is free and is open on weekdays only from 9 am to 4 pm, and is closed on Sundays.
Try street food and shop for souvenirs at a market
With so many markets in Chiang Mai, you have an abundance of places to shop and try street food (even better to do it on a food tour with a local).
- Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: a popular night market; it’s open every night of the week on Chang Klan Road, but is quite touristy and crowded.
- Saturday Night Market: from Old Pagoda by the South Gate to Wua Lai Road
- Sunday Night Market: one of the most popular night markets in Chiang Mai, selling food and souvenirs. The location is from Tha Phae Gate to Rachadamnoen Road.
- Chiang Mai Gate Market: this is considered a less touristy market, and it’s best to go early in the morning.
- Baan Kan Wat: this is a small village just outside of Chiang Mai’s old town, where you can expect to find galleries, cafes, workshops, and fun architecture. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm, but the latest reviews say that it has become a tourist trap.
- Jing Jai Farmer’s Market: This is the market to go to for a more unique shopping experience, where you will find handmade souvenirs and crafts, including clothes, rather than the typical tourist trinkets. And there’s a diverse food court. It’s only open on weekends, from roughly 6:30 am to 2 pm (don’t trust the hours on Google Maps, as they claim the market is open all week until 10 pm).
Insider tip: You can haggle lightly but always do so respectfully and kindly, and never low-ball the vendors (remember, a few cents for you, especially if you earn in dollars or euros, can mean a lot to them).
Another insider tip: pack wet wipes or napkins for eating out at night markets, as most vendors don’t offer napkins.
Embrace the cafe culture
Even if you don’t drink coffee, Chiang Mai is full of cute, cozy cafes where you can enjoy a slow pace of life. However, don’t spend all your mealtimes at cafes and try some traditional Thai food too.
Insider tip: to ensure you’re contributing to the local economy, visit locally owned cafes.
Explore traditional Northern Thai culture
Different parts of Thailand have distinct cultural heritage, and Northern Thailand is home to historic communities and tribes. You can ethically explore the local villages by staying in a local homestay in the villages, buying local arts and crafts, or eating at restaurants.
Karen (Pga K’nyau)
The Karen tribe is the largest tribe in Thailand, and they live in the mountainous regions around Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son. They’re known for cotton weaving and agriculture. There are a few villages that are commercialised and touristy, but for a more genuine experience, head to the ones deeper into the mountains, like the White Karen villages near Doi Inthanon mountain.
The Hmong tribe
The Hmong tribe is the second-largest minority group in Thailand, but they actually originate from China. The most popular village to visit is Doi Pui Village in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, and they focus on handicrafts. You can also visit Ban Mae Sa Noi & Ban Mae Sa Mai villages, known for batik workshops and forest restoration projects.
Visit the Ban Pa Pong Piang rice fields
A mountain village in Chiang Mai’s Mae Chaem District, specifically in the Doi Inthanon National Park, Ban Pa Pong Piang is home to some of the most beautiful terraced rice fields in Thailand.
The best time to visit Ban Pa Pong Piang is between August and September to see the lush rice fields. October to November is the harvesting season.
Cat garden: Suan Meow Maewang
A dream spot for cat lovers, Suan Meow Maewang is an animal shelter with about 52 rescue cats. You can visit to have a coffee and play with the cats, or even better, you can spend the night in the bamboo tree house.
Doi Inthanon National Park
One of the most popular national parks in Thailand, Doi Inthanon National Park is well known for its natural beauty, waterfalls, walking trails, and traditional, remote villages. It’s worth staying a few days to properly explore.
Activities to avoid in Chiang Mai
Unfortunately, in Chiang Mai, there are still lots of unethical tourist activities, particularly those involving animals. Below are the top things to avoid in Chiang Mai: unethical elephant sanctuaries and Tiger Kingdom.
Elephant sanctuaries that aren’t actually ethical
(The list is probably longer, but this is what I found so far for elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai that are either not ethical or using greenwashing marketing tactics).
- Elephant Nature Sanctuary Park – the most popular one, but unfortunately, still allows feeding
- Chang Chill – completely hands-off but still allows people to get very close to the elephants for photos
- Joy Elephant Sanctuary – feeding allowed. They even say that they offer a “hands-on experience”, which is an immediate red flag
- Elephant Soul Sanctuary – claiming hands-off, but allows feeding and photo ops
- Elephant Parks – allows bathing and feeding
- Elephant Sanctuary – allows bathing and feeding
- Elephant Jungle Sanctuary – allows bathing and feeding
- Big Boy Elephant Sanctuary – claims to be super ethical and no forced interaction but allows feeding
Tiger Kingdom
The Tiger Kingdom in Thailand is one of the most unethical animal tourist attractions, where people can pet and snuggle with tigers kept in steel cages. It’s not a conservation or rehabilitation centre, but rather a profitable and commercial entertainment facility, at the expense of the tigers’ well-being.
Tigers are kept in small enclosures that restrict their natural movements, leading them to pace back and forth anxiously. They’re inbred and then used as photo ops. Also, tigers are wild animals that aren’t meant to be cuddling with random strangers all day long, so one has to ask oneself: what is being done to these tigers that makes them so docile, to tolerate constant cuddling?
Where to stay in Chiang Mai?
Where to stay in Chiang Mai depends on what you expect to see and want to experience there. I personally am not interested in the nightlife scene, so I avoided the Night Bazaar area, and enjoyed the cafe scene in Nimmahaemin.
Old City
The Old City in Chiang Mai is known as the city’s cultural heartbeat. It’s the ideal place to stay for those who want to be within walking distance of the main historic attractions, temples, and the popular Night Market on Sundays, where Rachadamnoen Road transforms into a walking street full of stalls.
Best for: first-time visitors, especially people with limited time in Chiang Mai
Highlights: coffee shops, Night Market on Rachadamnoen Road, temples (Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao, Wat Phra Singh), and traditional Lanna-style guesthouses.
Find the best hotels in Old City.
Nimmahaemin
Nimmahaemin is the modern and trendy area of Chiang Mai, and this is reflected in the shopping centres, the cafes and bars, and the architecture.
Best for: coffee shop lovers, digital nomads, people seeking a cosmopolitan vibe, some partying
Highlights: rooftop bars, shopping centres (MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center, One Nimman mall, and co-working spots.
Find the best hotels in Nimmahaemin.
Riverside (Wat Ket)
As the name suggests, the Riverside neigbourhood, also known as Wat Ket, is by the Ping river in Chiang Mai. While slightly out of the main city centre area, it’s a lively but also peaceful area with a more upscale vibe.
Best for: visitors who prefer more luxury and romance, lively evenings, and a relaxing environment
Highlights: Boutique hotels, laid-back bars and cafes, live music, and traditional historic vibes
Find the best hotels in Riverside.
Santitham
For a more local experience, head to Santitham, a neighbourhood located between Nimman and the old city.
Best for: budget-conscious travellers, and people looking for more local vibes away from crowds and the party scene
Highlights: local street food, coffee shops, easy access to popular areas without the tourists
Find the best hotels in Santitham.
Night Bazaar and Chinatown
The Night Bazaar and Chinatown area in Chiang Mai is best for those looking for a party scene, fun evenings, and meeting new people (though in an intoxicated, loud way).
Find the best hotels in Night Bazaar and Chinatown.
Best for: party people; extroverts; LGBTQIA+ community
Highlights: Warorot Market (also known as Kad Luang) is a large indoor shopping hub for food, souvenirs, clothes, etc., muay thai stadiums, and LGBTQIA+ bars (Ram Bar and 6ixcret)
Jed Yot
Slightly away from the main city area (about 15 minutes’ drive), Jed Yot is a quiet area, best for families, long-term travellers looking for a quieter pace of life.
Best for: budget-conscious travellers; long-term travellers seeking quiet and less touristy spots
Highlights: museums (Chiang Mai National Museum, Sbunnga Textile Museum, and the Highland People Discovery Museum); coffee shop culture
Find the best hotels in Jed Yot.
FAQs
Is Chiang Mai worth visiting?
Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand is definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in temples, cultural heritage, learning about Northern Thai tribes and communities, and seeing elephants ethically.
How long should you stay in Chiang Mai?
If you only want to see the highlights in Chiang Mai, plan to stay around 3-4 days. However, many people enjoy the gentler pace of life there and prefer to stay longer to slow down on their Thailand trip.
