About Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the largest province (changwat) of Thailand by area. It lies in upper northern Thailand and has a population of 1.78 million people. It is bordered by Chiang Rai to the northeast, Lampang and Lamphun to the south, Tak to the southwest, Mae Hong Son to the west, and Shan State of Burma to the north. The capital, Chiang Mai, is 685 kilometres (426 mi) north of Bangkok.
Places to visit in Chiang Mai
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Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Religious · 4 mi from centreA golden hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai and one of the most sacred sites in northern Thailand. Climb the dragon-lined staircase of over 300 steps or take the funicular, and dress with covered shoulders and knees.
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Wat Chedi Luang
Religious · 4 mi from centreA temple in the old city centered on a massive ruined brick chedi, partly destroyed by an earthquake centuries ago. Stop by the monk chat area, where novices practice English with visitors.
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Wat Phra Singh
Religious · 3 mi from centreAn important temple in the old city, known for its classic Lanna-style chapel and fine murals. Visit during the Songkran festival in April, when a revered Buddha image is paraded through the streets.
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Tha Phae Gate
Historic · 4 mi from centreThe best-known surviving gate of the old city walls, framed by remains of the moat. It is the starting point for the busy Sunday Walking Street market that runs along Ratchadamnoen Road.
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Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Market · 4 mi from centreA sprawling evening market east of the old city selling handicrafts, clothing and street food. Bargain politely, and compare prices at a few stalls before buying larger items.
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Wat Umong
Religious · 4 mi from centreA peaceful forest temple at the foot of Doi Suthep, famous for its old tunnels lined with Buddha images. Go early in the morning for quiet and bring mosquito repellent for the wooded grounds.
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Doi Inthanon National Park
Nature · 36 mi from centreA national park around Thailand's highest mountain, with waterfalls, cloud forest and twin royal pagodas near the summit. Bring a warm layer, as temperatures at the top can be surprisingly cold.
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Elephant Nature Park
Nature · 27 mi from centreA sanctuary north of the city that cares for rescued elephants and does not offer riding. Book a day visit well ahead, as numbers are limited and transport from Chiang Mai is included.
Top experiences in Chiang Mai
Tours, tickets and experiences you can book with Destina Holidays, from 82 available.
Doi Suthep and Hmong Hill Tribe Village
From $37 per adult
Chiang Mai Night Safari - Ticket
From $43 per adult
Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat at Sunrise – Half Day Tour
From $26 per adult
Local Market Visit and Traditional Northern Thai-style Dinner with Cultural Performances
From $40 per adult
Doi Inthanon National Park – Full-Day Tour
From $38 per adult
Chiang Mai Michelin Street Food Master - Half-Day Tour
From $41 per adult
Chiang Mai by Night: Temple, Market, Food Tuk Tuk Tour
From $70 per adult
Elephant Bathing and Pratad Doi khum - Half-Day Tour
From $95 per adult
Ancient Chiang Mai with Elephants care
From $85 per adult
Discover Chiang Rai Temples: White Temple, Blue Temple and Red Temple - Tour
From $49 per adult
The Executive Lounge VIP Departure Service International
From $47 per adult
The Executive Lounge VIP Departure Service Domestic
From $36 per adult
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
Popular hotels in Chiang Mai, out of 1,253 properties you can book.
Duangtawan Hotel Chiang Mai
From $58 per night
Melia Chiang Mai
From $262 per night
Bossotel Inn Chiang Mai
From $73 per night
Cmor by Recall Hotel (SHA Plus)
From $57 per night
Shangri-La Chiang Mai
From $221 per night
Smile Lanna Hotel
From $263 per night
De Chai the Deco Chiang Mai Hotel
From $94 per night
Yaang Come Village
From $159 per night
U Chiang Mai
From $217 per night
Anantara Chiang Mai
From $415 per night
Wintree City Resort Chiangmai
From $78 per night
U Nimman Chiang Mai
From $417 per night
Best time to visit Chiang Mai
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Chiang Mai is December to January, when average daytime highs are around 81–82°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Chiang Mai weather forecast
- Wed 11 Nov 70° 66° 100%
- Thu 12 Nov 78° 65° 66%
- Fri 13 Nov 83° 67° 2%
- Sat 14 Nov 83° 66° 0%
- Sun 15 Nov 84° 67° 2%
- Mon 16 Nov 84° 66° 6%
- Tue 17 Nov 85° 65° 12%
Know before you go
- Currency
- Thai baht (THB)1 US dollar ≈ ฿33.6
- Language
- Thai
- Calling code
- +66
- Driving
- On the left
- Time zone
- Asia/BangkokUTC+7
- Capital
- Bangkok
Getting to Chiang Mai
These are the airports closest to central Chiang Mai. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- CNX Chiang Mai International Airport5 mi (8 km) from the city centre
Chiang Mai travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Chiang Mai is December to January, when average daytime highs are around 81–82°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
What is the weather like in Chiang Mai?
April is usually the warmest month in Chiang Mai, with average highs of 98°F (37°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 62°F (17°C). The wettest month is typically July, with about 521 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is the closest airport, about 5 miles (8 km) from the centre of Chiang Mai.
What currency is used in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai uses the Thai baht (THB). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ ฿33.6.
What time zone is Chiang Mai in?
Chiang Mai uses the Asia/Bangkok time zone (currently UTC+7). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
What are the best places to visit in Chiang Mai?
Top sights in Chiang Mai include Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh and Tha Phae Gate. A golden hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai and one of the most sacred sites in northern Thailand. Climb the dragon-lined staircase of over 300 steps or take the funicular, and dress with covered shoulders and knees.
What are the top things to do in Chiang Mai?
Popular experiences you can book in Chiang Mai include Doi Suthep and Hmong Hill Tribe Village, Chiang Mai Night Safari - Ticket and Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat at Sunrise – Half Day Tour. Destina Holidays offers 82 tours and activities here.
Where should I stay in Chiang Mai?
Popular areas for hotels in Chiang Mai include Chiang Mai City. Well-reviewed options include Duangtawan Hotel Chiang Mai and Melia Chiang Mai.
How many hotels can I book in Chiang Mai?
Destina Holidays currently lists 1,253 properties in and around Chiang Mai, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
