Life of Travel
Chiang Mai
Destination Guide
Northern Thailand's cultural heart, surrounded by misty mountains and ancient temples
Welcome to Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, a city where over 300 Buddhist temples dot the landscape, the air is cooler than Bangkok, and the pace of life invites you to slow down. Founded in 1296 as the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, this charming city is surrounded by mist shrouded mountains, elephant sanctuaries, and hill tribe villages waiting to be explored.
Chiang Mai In Photos
Yi Peng Festival
Elephant Sanctuary
Night Market
Cooking Class
Best Time to Visit
Cool Season
November to February
Perfect weather with temperatures of 15 to 28°C. Yi Peng Lantern Festival in November is magical. Book accommodation early for peak season.
Burning Season
March to April
Avoid if possible due to smoke from agricultural burning. Air quality can be poor. However, Songkran in April is an incredible experience.
Where to Stay
Old City
Inside the ancient walls, surrounded by temples and history
Best for: Temples • Walking • History • Family Hotels
Nimmanhaemin
Trendy neighborhood with cafes, boutiques, and family-friendly restaurants
Best for: Cafes • Shopping • Dining • Family Activities
Riverside
Peaceful area along the Ping River with great restaurants
Best for: Quiet Stays • Restaurants • River Views • Cycling
Top Things to Do
- 🛕Climb 309 steps to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for sunset views over the city
- 🐘Spend a day at an ethical elephant sanctuary feeding and bathing rescued elephants
- 🍜Master Thai cooking in a hands on class with market visit included
- 🏮Release a lantern at Yi Peng Festival (November) for an unforgettable experience
- 🚶Wander the Sunday Walking Street for handicrafts, food, and live music
- 🏔️Trek to hill tribe villages and waterfalls in the surrounding mountains
Wat Phra Singh
Sticky Waterfall
Flower Festival
Chiang Mai Tips
Hire a private driver for day trips to Doi Inthanon, elephant sanctuaries, and hill tribe villages
Only visit ethical elephant sanctuaries. Avoid any that offer riding or shows
The cafe scene is incredible. Nimman has dozens of Instagram worthy coffee shops
Bring layers. Evenings and mornings can be surprisingly cool, especially in winter
ATMs are everywhere but charge 220 baht per withdrawal. Withdraw larger amounts
Perfect 4 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Old City Temples
Explore Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Chiang Man in the Old City. Afternoon Thai massage, evening at Sunday Walking Street (if Sunday)
Day 2: Doi Suthep & Cooking
Morning visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep with city views. Afternoon Thai cooking class including market tour. Evening in Nimmanhaemin
Day 3: Elephants & Nature
Full day at an ethical elephant sanctuary. Feed, bathe, and walk with rescued elephants in the jungle. Relaxing evening by the Ping River
Day 4: Mountain Adventure
Day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park. Visit Thailand's highest peak, twin pagodas, and stunning waterfalls. Optional hill tribe village visit
Frequently Asked Questions
Fly from Bangkok (1 hour, frequent flights from 1000 baht). Overnight trains and buses are also available for a more scenic journey (10 to 12 hours). The airport is just 15 minutes from the city center.
Chiang Mai is excellent for families. Children love the elephant sanctuaries, cooking classes, and night markets. The cooler climate is easier on little ones than the beach resorts, and there's plenty of cultural activities to keep everyone engaged. Many family-friendly resorts offer kids' programmes and spacious rooms.
Try khao soi (curry noodle soup), sai oua (northern sausage), nam prik noom (green chili dip), and kanom jeen (rice noodles with curry). The Night Bazaar and local markets have endless options.
Songthaews (red trucks) are the local transport, charging around 30 baht within the city. Grab works well for taxis. For day trips outside the city, hire a private driver through your hotel.
Ready for Your Chiang Mai Adventure?
Let us take the stress out of planning your perfect family holiday. From elephant sanctuaries to cooking classes, we'll arrange everything so you can focus on making memories together.
Start Planning Your Trip