Chiang Mai.
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Overview

Chiang Mai (เชียงใหม่) is the hub of northern Thailand. On a plain at an elevation of 316 m, surrounded by mountains and lush countryside, it is much greener and quieter than the capital and has a cosmopolitan air and a significant expatriate population, all factors which have led many from Bangkok to settle permanently in this "rose of the north".

Understand

With a population of over 127,000 registered residents in the city municipality (as of 2016), and 1.2 million in the urban city area as of 2022, it is Thailand's second-largest city. Founded in 1296 CE, Chiang Mai is a culturally and historically interesting city, at one time the capital of the ancient Lanna kingdom. In the rolling foothills of the Himalayas 700 km north of Bangkok, until the 1920s it could only be reached by an arduous river journey or an elephant trek. This isolation helped preserve Chiang Mai's distinctive charm, which remains intact.

Chiang Mai's historical centre is the walled city ("city" is chiang in the northern Thai dialect while mai is "new", hence Chiang Mai translates as "new city"). Sections of the wall dating to their restoration a few decades ago remain at the gates and corners, but of the rest only the moat remains.

Inside Chiang Mai's remaining city walls are more than 30 temples dating back to the founding of the principality, in a combination of Burmese, Sri Lankan, and Lanna Thai styles, decorated with beautiful wood carvings, Naga staircases, leonine and angelic guardians, gilded umbrellas and pagodas laced with gold filigree. The most famous is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, which overlooks the city from a mountainside 13 km away.

Modern-day Chiang Mai has expanded in all directions, but particularly to the east to the banks of the Ping River (Mae Nam Ping), where Changklan Rd, the famous Night Bazaar, and the bulk of Chiang Mai's hotels and guest houses are located. Loi Kroh Rd (ถนนลอยเคราะห์) is the centre of the city's (tourist) night life.

Locals say you've not experienced Chiang Mai until you've seen the view from Doi Suthep, eaten a bowl of kao soi and purchased an umbrella from Bo Sang. Of course this is touristic blather, but kao soi, Bo Sang umbrellas and Doi Suthep are important cultural icons for the locals.

Orientation Chiang Mai's most salient physical feature is the moat and the remains of the wall surrounding the old city. About 6.5 km in circumference, it is the reference point for navigating around the city.

The east and west halves of the old city each have their own character. The east side has the highest concentration of guesthouses, restaurants, motorbike rental shops, travel agencies, and other tourist-oriented services. In particular, the northeast corner is a warren of guesthouses, restaurants, massage parlours, and other businesses catering to visitors. The western half is more Thai, with a school for the blind, a coffin shop, the Chiang Mai branch of Thailand's National Library and five or six mostly table-top barbecue restaurants (หมูกระทะ mǔu grà~​tá) almost always packed with Thai customers.

Clockwise from 12 o'clock (north), the main features of the moat and its environs areː

Chang Phuak Gate. Built by King Mangrai c.1296. Formerly known as Hua Wiang ("head of the city") Gate as it was considered the most important. King Saen Muang Ma (1365-1401) built an albino elephant (cháang-pʉ̀ʉak ช้างเผือก) monument outside the gate during his reign. The name of the gate then changed gradually to reflect its presence. Traditionally, kings-to-be entered the city through this gate on the way to their coronations. Taking the road north from here takes one to the intra-provincial bus station, also named Chang Phuak, then onward to Mae Rim, Pai, Chiang Rai and the Lao border.

Si Phum Corner. Taking the left turn at this point takes one to the superhighway. Straight on leads to a bridge over the Ping River and beyond it, the rail and bus stations. Turning right (south) parallels the eastern boundary of the moat.

Tha Phae Gate. Built c.1296 as Chiang Ruak Gate after a nearby village. "Tha Phae" means "raft landing". There used to be an outer Tha Phae on the river and this gate, the inner Tha Phae. When the raft landing was supplanted by a bridge, this became the Tha Phae Gate. Rebuilt 1985-1986. The vicinity is by far the area most useful to visitors as it contains the greatest number of tourist services. The Night Bazaar lies due east, about a 15-min walk. There always seems to be something going on in the plaza adjacent to the gate. Every Sunday a Walking Street Market originates here.

Katam Corner. A "katam" was a "fishtrap". Water flowing into the city from the Hua Lin corner (NW) of the city collected near this corner in a large pond full of fish. The corner took on the name of the tool used to catch the fish. Turning left here leads to the River Ping.

Chiang Mai Gate. Built c.1296 at the founding of the city by King Mangrai. Traditionally the start of the road south to Lamphun. Reconstructed c.1800. Rebuilt 1966-1969. Nearby is the Chiang Mai (fresh) Market, selling foodstuffs. Adjacent are many food stalls, which are popular throughout the day and especially evening. Across the street on Wualai Road to the south is a Walking Street Market every Saturday.

Saen Pung Gate. First mentioned in historical records about 1545. Traditionally used to transport the dead out of the city to crematoria outside the city proper.

Ku Huang Corner. Refers to a stupa "kuu" containing the ashes of a person named "Huang". Rebuilt c. 1800. Turning left here leads to the Airport Plaza Shopping Centre and the airport.

Suan Dok Gate. On the sign, misspelled in English as "saun dok". Little in the vicinity of interest to visitors. Outside this gate is Suthep Road, which leads to Wat Suan Dok, Chiang Mai University, and more.

Hua Lin Corner. "Hua" means "head" and "lin" means "aqueduct". At this corner the small brook, Hûuai Kaeo, was lifted over the city's rampart to provide fresh water to the settlement. Turning left here leads to the Nimmanhaemin District, Chiang Mai University, Maya Mall, and onward to Doi Suthep.

The 'burning season' (February~April) causes severe smog due to agricultural fires. Air quality often reaches hazardous levels, masking mountain views.

Chiang Mai's northern location and moderate elevation results in the city having a more temperate climate than that of the south.

As in the rest of Thailand there are three distinct seasons: A cool season from Nov-Feb. A hot season from Mar-Jun. A wet season from Jul-Oct.

Get in

The airport is situated really close to the city, just 3 km southwest of the city centre, 10–15 minutes away by car. Taxis Registered airport taxis charge a flat 150 baht for up to 5 passengers anywhere in the city. If you take a metered taxi, there is a starting fee plus a service fee from the Meter Taxi counter. The taxis operate close to the car park not far from the exit at the north end of the terminal.

Shuttle bus The airport also has a shuttle minibus service available, offering drop-off to any hotel in the city for a flat fee of 50 baht (October 2025) - perfect if you are solo of a couple and you don't mind waiting 10-15 minutes for a few fellow passengers. But it can happen that this bus doesn't work at all, as it was from 1-31 June of 2026. The minibus counter is at the southern end of the terminal, near the International arrivals.

Tuk-tuk Alternatively you can charter a tuk-tuk or songthaew, but they are not usually hanging around in the airport. You can negotiate with a songthaew driver who already has a few passengers, if you are alone. Most hotels and some upmarket guest houses offer cheap or free pick-up/drop-off services.

ATMs There are numerous ATMs and exchange offices of several banks in the main airport hall, which is very long and combines both international and domestic arrival and check-in booths on one floor - but you'll need to take an elevator to the second floor once you've checked in, and that's where you won't find neither exchanges nor ATMs. Mr.

Domestic The route from Bangkok is one of the busiest in the country. Airlines operating direct services to Chiang Mai include:

Thai Airways International. 4 flights daily.

Thai Air Asia. Used to be the cheapest option if you booked at least a week before, but now the strong competition of other carriers, as well as AirAsia's popularity among tourists, makes this true mostly only if you're lucky to catch a good promo. Prices can be significantly higher if you book just a few days before, or want a specific day/flight.

Bangkok Airways. A full-service carrier positioning itself as "Asia's boutique airline" (for example, they provide a lounge to Economy passengers both in Chiang Mai and Bangkok), flies from Ko Samui & Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi). Surprisingly, Bangkok Airways can be cheaper than the budget airlines (but not to Ko Samui where they have a domestic monopoly), particularly if you book just a few days ahead.

Nok Air. Other destinations: Mae Hong Son, Ubon Ratchathani.

Thai Lion Air. There's a flight from Pattaya as well.

Flight statistics Domestic flights 65-75 flights, 11 destinations daily: Bangkok/Don Mueang (25-30), Bangkok/Suvarnabhumi (25-30), Hua Hin Airport (1), Khon Kaen Airport (1), Krabi Airport (3), Koh Samui Airport (1), Phuket Airport (5), U-Tapao Airport (1), Hat Yai Airport (1), Surat Thani Airport (2) and Udon Thani Airport (1) International flights 33 flights, 19 destinations daily: Beijing International Airport (1), Busan / Gimhae International Airport (1), Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (2), Hanoi / Noi Bai International Airport (1), Hong Kong International Airport (2), Kuala Lumpur International Airport (3), Kunming Changshui International Airport (3), Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (1), Luang Prabang International Airport (1), Mandalay International Airport (1), Ninoy Aquino Manila International Airport (1), Osaka/Kansai International Airport (1), Sapporo/New Chitose Airport (1), Seoul/Incheon International Airport (5), Shanghai Pudong International Airport (3), Singapore Changi Airport (2), Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (2), Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (1) and Yangon International Airport (3)

By bus Chiang Mai has several bus stations, serving the surrounding region and many long distance destinations:

In the following some specific destinations: Bangkok

Rattling government buses make frequent stops at every minor township. The journey takes around 12 hr. Non-stop 24/32-seaters and 1st class buses such as Nakhonchai Air provide larger seats and snacks; making the long trip more comfortable. Be cautious about the so-called "VIP" buses touted on Khao San Rd. They may be cheaper, but you may end up crammed into a 2nd class bus or worse.

This will likely work out cheaper for tourists than the red songhaews and is less hassle; however staff staff will only direct you to the songthaews.

There are also songthaews that wait nearer Terminal 3, adjacent to the road that bisects the two terminals. You can take a shared trip to Tha Phae Gate (south edge of the old town), though you may have to wait for a driver who agrees. Virtually all songthaews will pass Warorot Market (city centre, just after crossing the river), from where it's just 1 km walk to Tha Phae Gate, or numerous (see "Get around" section) songthaews to other areas.

It may be difficult to bargain with these drivers, however. A good idea is to ignore them from the start, walk out to the nearby street, and catch a passing tuk-tuk/songthaew there. If your luggage is light, you can walk to the centre, but it's quite a long (1 hour or more) walk, as the Arcade bus station is located in the city's northeast outskirts.

Hua Hin Buses depart the Hua Hin BKS Station at 08:00, 17:00, and 18:00 for Chiang Mai, 12.5 hr.

Pattaya Buses depart the Nakhonchai Air Terminal in Pattaya (Sukhumvit Rd) for Chiang Mai several times during the day. Last bus about 21:00. Travel time is about 11 hr, with no stops longer than 5 min. Buses to Pattaya from Chiang Mai leave the Nakhonchai Air Terminal at Arcade Station daily on roughly the same schedule.

Phuket There is one daily direct Green Bus service from Chiang Mai's Arcade Terminal 3 to Phuket Terminal 2 and back. This trip is a killer: 24½ hours on the bus! Due to the length of this trip, Green Bus uses their most luxurious buses on this route: they have 3 seats across (instead of the standard 4), water and snacks, USB outlets, and possibly a personal screen with (mostly Thai) movies. If flying is not an option, definitely it's better to break your trip into two parts by stopping for at least one night in Bangkok (going from/to Chiang Mai by sleeper train preferably) or another city roughly in the middle, like Hua Hin.

Udon Thani From Udon to Chiang Mai: Phetprasert Bus Company has three buses a day depart from in front of the Central Festival Shopping Mall. Depart Udon/arrive Chiang Mai times are: 17:45-05:25; 18:45-06:25; and 20:45-06:40. Buy your ticket at the Phetprasert ticket counter in the downtown bus station, a 5 min walk from Central Festival. There is an inconvenient out-of-town bus terminal that may have more buses to Chiang Mai.

From Chiang Mai to Udon: Phetprasert Buses leave Chiang Mai/arrive Udon at: 14:30-02:15; 17:30-05:15; and 19:30-05:30. Buses arrive at the Central Festival Shopping Mall, a convenient location 5 minutes from the downtown bus station. Buy your ticket at the Phetprasert ticket counter in Arcade Terminal 2. Buses depart from Arcade Terminal 3.

Mae Khachan Mae Khachan is popular for the nearby hot spring and Karen Long Neck Village. Four buses daily — conveniently spread out through the day — leave in either direction, two of them even include Wiang Pa Pao. They call at Terminal 3 of the Arcade Bus Station. Bus schedule and tickets can be obtained online. But tickets can also be bought from the driver directly.

Services from Bangkok leave on a regular daily schedule and take 12–15 hours to reach Chiang Mai. If you go by night train (recommended), take one that arrives late in the morning so you can observe some northern Thailand scenery: bridges and forests; villages and fields.

Daytime services leave at 08:30, and 14:30 with second-class and third-class carriages. The seats in each class differ in softness and width, and can become uncomfortable after 10+ hours.

Overnight sleepers provide comfortable bunks with clean sheets and pillows in first- and second-class. First-class beds are in private two-bed compartments. In second-class, the carriages are open but each bunk has a curtain for privacy. The top bunks are slightly claustrophobic as they lack a window, but they are 10% cheaper for this reason. First-class always has air-con, second class sometimes has air-con, depending on the train. There are usually four trains per day with sleeper accommodation, though only two of these will have first-class compartments. Station staff will be able to help you.

Carriages are kept clean; the toilet and floors are regularly mopped during the journey. Vendors make regular rounds selling snacks, drinks, and lackluster meals at inflated prices. You are also free to hop off quickly at stations to make a purchase (or order through your window) or bring your own food and drink.

In second-class, the bunks are folded away leaving pairs of facing seats. At some point in the evening, or on request, they are flipped down into bunks and made up into beds. In first-class, the bottom bunk is used as a bench seat before having a futon mattress placed on top in the evening.

If you're not in the mood for bed when your carriage mates are bedding down, you can head off to the dining car, which provides fairly good food and drink at reasonable prices. Later in the night, the dining car can be converted into a disco, complete with loud music and flashing lights.

Tickets can be bought up to 180 days in advance at any station in Thailand. Booking in advance is advised, especially for the popular 2nd-class overnight sleepers. Larger stations accept payment with Visa and MasterCard. This is fairly safe, as SRT is a state-owned company. If you are not yet in Thailand, the SRT D-Ticketing website will let you buy and print an e-ticket. Some find it tricky to register. You have to avoid any special characters while filling the registration form. You must book at least three days in advance, and you can only purchase 1st and 2nd class air-con sleeper tickets which are more expensive than fan-only car tickets. There is also an official SRT D-Ticket app on the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. Various travel agencies, some available to contact from outside Thailand, can also procure tickets for delivery or pick up. 12go is a poopular choice for this. YesMyTrips is another option, offering real-time seat maps, live availability and instant e-tickets.

You can transport a bicycle between Bangkok and Chiang Mai on the train for an extra fee. It will go in the cargo area.

Many songthaews and tuk-tuks await each train's arrival. If you want to walk, exit the station, cross the open square in front and turn left on the first major road you come to (Charoen Muang Rd); this road goes directly to city centre.

Get around

By bus Chiang Mai has a limited bus service, not without the opposition of the songhthaew (see below) and tuk tuk drivers. The RTC Chiang Mai City Bus follows just a few routes so far, but they quite fit the average traveler's needs, including from/to the airport, and are air-conditioned. The ticket is 20 baht, pay in cash to the driver or else Rabbit card from Bangkok is also accepted. For those wishing to travel really hard, there's a Tourist card - 180 baht per day or 400 baht per 3 days unlimited trips.

The traditional way of getting around the city is by songthaew (สองแถว) which serve as buses and taxis. These covered pick-up trucks have two long bench seats in the back (songthaew means "two rows" in Thai), the seats are shared by multiple passengers and the songthaews stop en route to pick up other passengers who are going the same way.

The colour of the songthaew indicates its general route or usage. Most common by far are red songthaews (called rot daeng, red truck), which don't follow a specific route and roam the main streets around markets, temples, or the bus/train stations. These are the most convenient to take if you are going somewhere specific. During peak season these prices can increase to 40 baht within the city walls and up to 200 baht outside - again, that's how much a tourist would pay.

Since mid 2017 songthaews have a sign stating "30 baht pp" above the windows of the car. However this is not a translation of the entire Thai text. It turns out to be the maximum, when reading the entire line. A second line, that is below the windows, gives the area for this tariffs: within the 2nd ringroad. Keep this in mind when you have to negotiate.

It's a good idea to confirm this with the driver before you leave. On reaching your destination, ring the buzzer on the roof to tell the driver to stop. The driver will pull over, wait for you to get out and pay.

Songthaews not orbiting on a fixed-route can be hired outright, just as if they were a taxi.

By tuk-tuk or samlor Tuk-tuks are a quick, though noisy way to get around. Good luck if you can bargain for anything less than 100 baht even for a few kilometers, as they would rather wait for another clueless tourist more likely. Many expatriates and long-term tourists tend to ignore tuk-tuks completely unless absolutely necessary, and use alternate modes of transportation like a motorbike or Grab ride-hailing app. Even Thai people are complaining about tuk-tuks asking them more than double than they used to pay several years ago.

By ride hailing Grab is usually (except the periods of exceptionally high demand like during Songkran, New Year, etc.) cheaper than a tuk-tuk even after haggling, with the added benefit of cashless payment and the comfort of a private car.

Many tourist routes and popular destinations have highly inflated, fixed prices. Likewise, walk away from any touristy place in case you only get highly inflated quotes in the app. Just play around a little with pickup and dropoff point, and you will get a feel for how quickly prices drop.

You can also call a motorbike (look for Grab Win service) or a regular metered taxi using the Grab app (look for a GrabTaxi service). At the end of a GrabTaxi trip, you'll pay what the meter shows plus a booking fee (30 baht), either in cash or debited from your credit card by the Grab service.

There are also alternatives to Grab, for example, Bolt (an Estonian company) and Maxim (a Russian company) are usually about 10%-20% cheaper for car taxi (prices for motorbike taxi are similar).

By taxi Chiang Mai has metered taxis, although not as many as tuk-tuks and songthaews. The "flag fall" is for the first 2 km, then per kilometre after that. Journeys longer than 12 km can be negotiated.

You cannot generally hail taxis in the street. To book a taxi, call +66 53–279291, state your destination and the call centre will give you a quote.

Taxi drivers do not speak English or read Latin script, so therefore knowing your address in Thai or having your hotel receptionist writing your destination in Thai would be helpful.

By motorbike A motorbike is a convenient and cheap way to get around the city or reach the outlying sights. There is an abundance of near indistinguishable rental companies in the city, though most guesthouses can arrange rentals as well. 100 cc and 125 cc machines with automatic transmissions capable of carrying two people are the easiest to jump on and ride away if you don't have driving experience. A scooter or moped, such as the Honda Click, is the most convenient as it can carry bags on the floorboard and smaller items underneath the seat. Off-road bikes and larger street bikes are also an option. An international driver's licence is legally required, but the rental shops don't ask to see it, not even your national driver's permit.

You get the required helmets and an anti-theft chain (not for scooters). Expect discounts when renting for a week, month or longer.

Renting will require a deposit, and while many companies ask for a passport, you should under no circumstances leave your passport with anyone as collateral. However, most shops will accept a photocopy with a cash deposit. While the petrol/gas tank may be full on pickup, it is not uncommon for shops to deliver a bike with just enough fuel to go make it to a service station. They may siphon the remainder off when you return it so the next person is forced to do the same. In any case, return the bike with as much or more fuel than received to avoid any penalties. Also check the mechanical condition of the bike offered. Focus especially on the brakes: the degree of "pull" needed for the brake levers and the travel required by the foot brake. Check that turn indicators and headlights work properly, and that the tyres are reasonably OK. Make photos of the bike as documentation of pre-existing damages.

Some rental agreements claim to insure you, but generally only cover the bike for theft or damage. Don't expect much compensation in the event of an accident. And irrespective of who is at fault, assume that you will be the one blamed.

Police checkpoints Chiang Mai traffic police are fond of setting up checkpoints to stop motorcyclists, and as off 2025 they started to check cars as well sometimes. These invariably happen during business hours. If you or your passenger are without a helmet, you will be stopped. If you do have a helmet, you may be stopped anyway, to check your licence and registration. If you are fined, this is a smooth process which typically takes less than 5 minutes: e.g., if you present a foreign driver's license, you fined only 500 baht. You can pay on the spot and continue driving afterwards. Keep the receipt, it usually exempts you from being fined again within the next 3 days.

The regular checkpoints change from time to time. The second half of 2019 they are:

Checkpoint Huay Kaew Rd.. Usually direction Doi Suthep, but sometimes both directions.

For more information on motorbike travel and police enforcement also see Thailand#By motorbike.

By bicycle Traffic inside the old city walls is subdued enough to make biking a safe and quick way to get around.

By car Car hire services are available at the airport and throughout the city. Cars typically offered include the Toyota Vios, Altis, and Yaris, and the Honda City and Jazz. Expect a slight discount when renting weekly. Many places offer minivans such as 10-seat Toyota Commuters with a driver. Older Suzuki Caribbean 4WDs are a cheaper option, but they are relatively difficult to drive and less mechanically reliable than a standard passenger car.

All the multi-national rental companies are present in Chiang Mai. One local car rental company is:

You'll also be able to relax and enjoy the scenery in air-conditioned comfort. When booked a car with a driver, he or she will typically pick you up with a full tank of fuel and you pay at the end. Most hotels and some guesthouses can arrange it for you, in addition to vehicle rental outlets, and the many travel agencies in the city.

On foot The old city moat is only about 1.6 km on a side, and as such is easy to walk around. The airport is also quite close to the old part of the city, about 2.5 km, so if you have the energy and an hour to spare, you can even walk to and from the airport. This is not necessarily a pleasant experience as the sidewalks are uneven (or non-existent) and Chiang Mai gets hot during the day, especially during the hot season, and rainy during the rainy season.

See

Chiang Mai Foreign Cemetery. A place of history and remembrance. A statue of Queen Victoria is overlooking the place.

Chiang Mai Zoo & Aquarium. A large park with over 400 species of animals, extremely popular with Thai tourists, and long queues may be encountered during Thai holidays. While better than some zoos, many animals are nevertheless kept in small enclosures. Additional charges are applied for the aquarium. Many of the animals can be fed for a charge of 10 or 20 baht. The park is pretty large, and expect plenty of hills if you want to walk the complete route, so taking the "tram," which is an open-air cart, is a faster and more convenient way to get around, though the last tram starts at 16:30. It's possible to drive through with your car, and there are parking spots next to the animal exhibits. If you have a rental scooter or bike, definitely bring it though. The zoo closes at 17:00, but many visitors wander to the exit gate well past closing time.

Bhubing Palace. This royal winter palace has lavishly landscaped gardens and is open to the public. Dress code strictly applied: dress modestly or pay 15 baht for fisherman's pants to cover your lack of it. This includes any leg above the ankle for either gender. The palace (built in 1961) is not particularly exciting, but the extensive gardens are picturesque with some amazing plant life, including carefully tended tropical flowers, centuries-old trees and giant bamboo. A sign at the bottom of the hill near the zoo indicates when it's closed. It is close to Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, so travel directions are similar.

Doi Suthep. A ride for the temples and sunset to Doi Suthep is a rewarding trip with great views of the city. Most tourists will end up at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, but there are several other attractions you may want to consider visiting, besides of course the mountain itself. 4½ km further along the road from Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep are the Bhubing Royal Palace Gardens (see before). Here you will also find a great sunset viewpoint, 500 m downhill on the other side of the road. Further along this road is Doi Pui Tribal Village, and although tourist-oriented, is really worth the trip. There are many shops for local handicrafts, etc. These are the people from the far north of the country, many originally from Myanmar. There are two areas in the village that require entrance fee: 10 baht to enter a flower garden (where women can take pictures using traditional clothes) and a hill tribe opium museum (the museum is in a very poor condition); and 10 baht to enter the hill tribe waterfall (man-made).

Getting there and away: Clearly marked songthaews leave from the 7-eleven at the Chang Phuak Gate. Most only go until Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, where the majority of tourists ends up. Prices should be 80 baht or less as of 2025. The drivers will wait until they have sufficient passengers (5 or more) before they depart, potentially making for a lengthy wait. The driver may offer to leave without the minimum number of people if the current passengers are willing to pay extra. Another option is to get to the northern gate of Chiang Mai University, where there will be several songthaews waiting on Huai Kaew Rd to get a full load of passengers for a trip up the mountain. They seem to congregate around the Chiang Mai Zoo. However, instead of waiting for additional passenger here, you can also just hail any songthaew going by and up the mountain. Prices range from 50 baht for a one-way trip to Wat Prathat Doi Suthep to 180 baht for a full round-trip tour, including the temple, Bhubing Palace Gardens, and the hill tribe village. But you may have to wait until there are sufficient people, who want the same tour or be prepared to pay more. You can also get between many of these places by hitch-hiking, by walking or by buying point-to-point tickets at the time you want them. Any songthaew up the mountain road may be a trial for those prone to motion-sickness, so take appropriate precautions. The journey from the city can also be made by motorcycle or a bicycle (with appropriate gearing). The final 12 km from the zoo onwards is entirely uphill and will take 60-90 minutes if cycling.

Chiang Mai Historical Centre. This modern multimedia history and cultural education centre has guides dressed in elegant traditional Thai clothing who will usher you into an air-conditioned room to watch an English-subtitled orientation video about Chiang Mai and the north. Next, you will be pointed to a series of rooms documenting the region's history and culture in chronological order from the pre-Muang period (7,000-12,000 years ago) to the early river civilizations, to the early kings through the wars with the Burmese and the last dynasty, to the city today and its plans for the future. Other rooms are devoted to Buddhism and other regional beliefs, agricultural history, hill tribe peoples and other regional cultures, and a run-down of the royal dynasties. The exhibits consist of a smart visual mix of video, scale models, enlarged photos, wall murals and text in Thai and English. This complex also shared with the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre

Chiang Mai National Museum. The history of Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai University Art Museum. There are exhibitions by undergraduates from the Fine Arts Department at Chiang Mai University. These change often and the work on display is of high quality. Each month there is usually at least one art exhibition featuring the works of artists from Southeast Asia. The museum also hosts musical concerts, often free, in the adjoining theatre.

Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders. One of Asia's most unusual museums housing butterflies, beetles, etc. Also has a large selection of minerals. Some explanations in English, some in Thai.

Chiang Mai Philatelic Museum. Museum of stamps and postal related objects.

Northern Telecoms of Thailand Museum. History and evolution of the telecommunications service technology.

The Highland People Discovery Museum. The museum is located on a little peninsula in a big pond. There is also an open air part to the museum at 300 m from the main building, where you find houses in the styles of the tribes. There is also a shop selling clothes, bags, and other high hill tribe products.

Lanna Traditional House Museum. traditional wooden houses of the northern Thai region and Lanna culture.

The Treasury Museum Chiang Mai. One of two money museums in Thailand, focused on northern Thailand, run by government treasury department, in a heritage building. It is small: plan 1 hr to see, need to take off shoes.

Kalm Village. Community culture space that often hosts workshops like mini loom weaving or meditation.

Lanna Architecture Center. Located in the Khum Chao Burirat Mahain Building, a two storey house as an example of the western influence on native architecture in early Chiang Mai times, there are videos, photos, and models about traditional Thai buildings. You can also buy postcards, pencils, and tees about Khum Chao Burirat there. There are several stamps of Thai building pictures to stamp on your booklet.

Wat Chedi Luang. Almost in the centre of Chiang Mai are the remains of a massive chedi that toppled in the great earthquake of 1545. The temple was originally constructed in 1401 on the orders of King Saeng Muang Ma. In 1454, reigning King Tilo-Garaj enlarged the chedi (pronounced jedee) to a height of 86 m. A magnificent testament to Lanna (northern Thai) architecture and art, restored sections hint at its former glory. Wat Chedi Luang is also home to the "Pillar of the City", a totem used in ancient Thai fertility rites.

Wat Chiang Man. The oldest temple in the city. Presumed to date from the year Chiang Mai was founded (1296), it is famed for two Buddha statues, which are about 1,800 and 1,000 years old, respectively. King Mengrai allegedly lived here while the city of Chiang Mai was being constructed. Enshrined in Wat Chiang Man is a tiny crystal Buddha called Pra Seh-Taang Kamaneeee, which is thought to have the power to bring rain. Another image, called Phra Sila Khoa, reflects the fine workmanship of Indian craftsmen from thousands of years ago.

Wat Phra Chao Mengrai. An atmospheric temple with two wihan buildings, off the beaten track, quiet and gently crumbling. One of the wihan buildings houses an important Buddha image: Phra Buddha Rupa Phra Chao Mengrai.

Wat Phra Singh. Probably Chiang Mai's best-known temple, housing the Phra Singh image, completed between 1385 and 1400. Of most historical interest is the Wihan Lai Kham in the back, featuring Lanna-style temple murals and intricate gold patterns on red lacquer behind the altar. The large chedi was built in 1345 by King Pha Yu to house the remains of his father King Kam Fu. A typical scripture repository is located at this temple as well. These repositories were designed to keep and protect the delicate sa or mulberry paper sheets used by monks and scribes to keep records and write down folklore. The high stucco-covered stone base of the repository protected the delicate scriptures from rain, floods, and pests. The walls of the chapel are covered with murals illustrating Lanna customs, dress and scenes from daily life. The lovely Lai Kam chapel houses the revered Phra Singh Buddha image. The head was stolen in 1922, and a reproduction is now seen. Your admission ticket is in a leaflet form containing useful information and map of Wat Phra Singh complex. The temple is most attractive during Songkran, the Thai New Year, in mid-April.

Wat Chet Yot. The history and unusual architecture scattered under the yawning canopy of ancient trees is a pleasant antidote to the flash and bustle encountered at popular temples. Established in 1455 to host the eighth World Buddhist Council, many features of the grounds imitate significant places of the Buddha's enlightenment. Originally called Botharam Maha Vihata in honour of the venerated Bodhi tree, it came to be known as Wat Jet Yod by locals, after the seven spires (Jet Yod) protruding from the roof of the Vihara. The square-sided design of the Virhra is a replica of Mahabodhi temple in Bodh Gaya, India, though the translation has distorted proportions somewhat. Remnants of the graceful stucco relief murals that adorned the walls depict angels with a distinctly Indian flavour. The grounds also hold some more recently built, but abandoned looking, eroded chedis and buckling bases of vanished halls, overshadowed by a fully intact, though more diminutive, replica of Chedi Luang that was built around 1487 to house the ashes of King Tilokarat.

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. The quintessential image of Chiang Mai with its large gilded chedi, visible from the city on a clear day. Built in 1383 during the Lanna Thai period, legend has it that the temples site was selected by an elephant sent to roam the mountain side, where upon reaching a suitable spot, it trumpeted, circled three times, knelt down and promptly died, which was interpreted as a sign indicating an auspicious site. The temple offers grand views over the city, but no reward is without effort as you must accent the 200-plus steep steps of the Naga-lined stairs. The climb may be a strain in the high altitude's thin air for the less fit, so you may opt to take the cable car for 20 baht. For the Visaka Bucha holiday around May each year, it is traditional for people to walk from the zoo to the temple and vast numbers make the pilgrimage to the top, which takes around 4–5 hours.

Wat Pha Lat. Some buildings at the road, but turn left to go down to the actual temple. Nice views from the temple. The monk trail passes through the temple grounds.

Wat Si Suphan. The Ubosot building of the temple is completely covered with a layer of silver, particularly impressive when illuminated in the evening. Decorated with detailed ornaments. Sometimes silversmiths on site are adding or renewing the decoration. Conversations with monks and an introduction to meditation are also offered in the temple. Women are not allowed to enter the interior of the Ubosot building.

Wat Suan Dok. A large open-sided hall with a jumble of roughly hewn Buddhas with a huge dazzlingly whitewashed chedi behind. On the temple grounds is also a royal cemetery with the ashes collected from around Chiang Mai by princess Dara Rasmi (one of the wives of King Chulalongkorn).

Wat Ton Kwen. Very nice temple with unusual architectural elements. Road 1269 is also part of the Samoeng Loop route.

Wat Umong. The name means "tunnel temple". An ancient temple in the forest just outside Chiang Mai. King Mengrai built this temple for a highly respected forest monk who liked to wander in the countryside, hence the isolated location where the monk could stay quietly and meditate. It is unusual in that it has tunnel-like chambers in the ground, some of the walls of which still have the original paintings of birds and animals visible. The large stupa is magnificent, and there is an eerie statue of a fasting, emaciated Buddha next to it. You can also take a break by the ponds, where you can feed the fish and turtles. Has a meditation centre open to foreigners. Some monks and the abbot speak a little English.

Wiang Kum Kam. This ancient city was built in the 13th century CE by King Meng Rai to be the first capital city of Lanna. But it flooded every year so he decided to move his capital to Nopburi-Srinakornping Chiang Mai. Wiang Kum Kam was flooded and did not show up again because of the path of Ping River changed. In 1984, one of the temples was found by the Department of Fine Arts, and exploration of the other temples began. Now there are multiple brick ruins of ancient temples. Tour around Wiang Kum Kam with a guide are available from tourist agencies for 300 baht. You can get there by carriage for 200 baht, or rent a bicycle to ride along the road and follow the signs. Notice that entering the area via the Chiang Mai-Lamphun Rd is very nice because of the very tall trees that line this road.

Wat Chedi Liam. Formerly known as Wat Ku Kham (Thai: วัดกู่คำ), this temple was renovated in 1908 by a Burmese trader. Therefore, many decorations are in Burmese style. The chedi was also renovated in 1992.

Wat Lok Moli. Wat Lok Moli is a historic Lanna-style temple dating back to the 14th century.

Do

Chiang Mai Flower Festival. It is a three day festival staged every year starting the first Friday in February (in 2026, due to elections one week later). The city is awash with vibrant colours ranging from the electric orange and lilac colours of the bougainvillea to the velvety blossoms of petunias in all shades of pink, white, and purple. The strident red of the poinsettias, bought by many at Christmas and New Year, is echoed by beds of scarlet salvias. Homes and shop owners alike line the city streets with colourful flower boxes. The sheer profusion of colour that the flower festival and carnival brings to Chiang Mai aptly gives the city its name "Rose of the North". On all three days of the festival, prize blooms are on display at Nong Buak Had Park near the city centre. Many types of flower, miniature trees and orchida are put on display for the judges to choose the best of the species. Landscape specialists put on an elaborate display, which includes patios and waterfalls with exotic decorative plants and flowers. The best part of the flower festival is on Saturday. The parade lines up from the train station to Nawarat Bridge so the police close most of Charoen Muang Rd around 08:00. The VIP viewing stand is right next to the bridge in front of the Chiang Mai Governor's home. The parade route goes up Tha Phae Rd to the gate and turns left and follows the moat to Nong Buak Had Park. The parade moves at a slow pace and stops several times so there is plenty of time to take pictures of the colourful floats, pretty girls and hill tribe people in native costume. The paraders hand out roses to spectators lining the road. When the parade finishes everyone heads to Nong Buak Had where all the floats, award-winning flower growers and landscape projects are all on display. There are plenty of food stalls in the park, and in the late afternoon the Miss Chiang Mai Flower Festival starts. The party goes well into the evening until the new Flower Festival Queen has been chosen. This is a great time to visit Chiang Mai, as the air is cool and the evenings fresh and clear. If you want to see the festival make sure you book your hotels and flights well in advance.

Songkran Festival. The Thai Water Festival is one of the biggest events in Thailand. Songkran is not only a time for fun but also a period for spiritual renewal. It is deeply rooted in Thai culture and has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. The festival blends ancient customs with modern-day celebrations, making it a unique experience for both locals and tourists. It is celebrated as the Thai new year from 13-15 Apr (though it may begin a day or two early). The most obvious sign that you're in the middle of the festival is when you get soaked by someone pouring a bucket of water over you, or squirting you with a water gun. This tradition evolved from people tossing water that had been poured over holy statues, since this water was expected to be good luck. Now, it takes the form of a free-for-all water fight, and you will undoubtedly be drenched. Beware of the ice-cold splashes used by many from their big barrels of water filled with several ice blocks. It's also a way of staying cool during the very hot and humid month of April.

Loi Krathong and Yi Peng Festivals. If you like candles placed in colourful paper lanterns, fireworks, beautiful girls in traditional dress, parade floats, lots of food and parties. Don't miss the Loi Krathong festival, which in Chiang Mai lasts for 3 full days, the last night being that of the 12th full moon of the year (which is usually in Nov). In the small town of Mae Jo, north of Chiang Mai, they start the festival on Saturday night by simultaneously launching thousands upon thousands of hot air balloons called khom loi. Loi Krathong coincides with the northern Thai (Lanna) festival known as "Yi Peng" (ยี่เป็ง). Due to a difference between the old Lanna calendar and the Thai calendar, Yi Peng is held on a full moon of the 2nd month of the Lanna calendar ("Yi" meaning "2nd" and "Peng" meaning "month" in the Lanna language). A multitude of Lanna-style sky lanterns (khom loi (โคมลอย), literally: "floating lanterns") are launched into the air where they drift with the winds. The festival is meant as a time for "tam-bun" (ทำบุญ), to make merit. People decorate their houses, gardens, and temples with khom fai (โคมไฟ): intricately shaped paper lanterns which take on different forms. Khom thue (โคมถือ) are lanterns which are carried around hanging from a stick, khom khwaen (โคมแขวน) are the hanging lanterns, and khom pariwat (โคมปริวรรต) which are placed at temples and which revolve due to the heat of the candle inside. Chiang Mai has the most elaborate Yi Peng celebrations, where both Loi Krathong and Yi Peng are celebrated at the same time resulting in lights floating on the waters, lights hanging from trees/buildings or standing on walls, and lights floating by in the sky.

Bo Sang Umbrella & Sankampang Handicrafts Festival. Takes place around the third weekend of Jan at Ban Bo Sang, Sankampang. The festival is in the form of a "street fair" in which the central road of the village is used, with shops on both sides. Shops are decorated in Lanna-style, most with the well-known umbrellas, as well as with traditional lanterns. In addition there are contests, exhibitions, cultural performances, local entertainment, and assorted shows day and night. There is a grand procession decorated with umbrellas and local products, a variety of handicrafts for sale, northern-style khantoke meals and the Miss Bo Sang pageant.

Inthakin or Tham Boon Khan Dok. City Pillar Festival in Chiang Mai. This is a six-day festival where the city pillar spirits are propitiated to ensure the continuity of the city. Occurs in May or Jun as part of the Northern Thailand lunar calendar. Very large event focused around Wat Chedi Luang.

Mae Jo Lantern Release. A huge lantern release (it is often referred to as the 10,000 lantern release, but there are not as many as that) happens near Mae Jo University on the Saturday before Loi Krathong,. The DMC Buddhist Sect puts this on and though it is billed as "for local people" this event has no connection with Chiang Mai or Lanna events, and is not promoted by local government officials nor included in their program. The lantern release takes place at the end of a ceremony that begins at 18:30, with the release at 20:00. The event is free of charge, but respectful attire is required and alcohol is forbidden.

Monk's Trail. A popular jungle hiking route through the forest to Wat Pha Lat and continuing up to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. Take a red songthaew to Chiang Mai University or Chiang Mai Zoo. Alternatively, you can also take a red sogthaew to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep and begin your hike in the reversed direction. The route to Wat Pha Lat is considered easy to moderate (about 1 hr) and the route from Wat Pha Lat to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep inclines steeper (about 1½ hr). Dress properly or bring a carf to cover shoulders and knees since the route passes through temples. About 280 m before reaching What Pha Lat, there is a three way intersection, where there is a sign of an alternative route to an abandoned temple Wat Anagami. This 500-m route is more challenging but there is ropes helping you to climb. Also prepare yourself to cross one unbridged small stream via walking on the stones. From Wat Anagami you can return through the original route to continue your hike to Wat Pha Lat or try to catch a songthaew passing by and go back to city. Note that because almost no one comes to Wat Anagami so the songthaew usually will not stop there and you need to catch the driver's attention alongside the road. Best time to hike is morning, to avoid heat and increase the chance of encountering monks on the trail.If you want to skip the hefty fee, just walk in the opposite direction, or just use any of the two trails further south (see OSM), which will however probably have less sights on their way.

Nature Trail to Doi Pui peak. A loop trail (2.4 km) leads from the Doi Pui Campsite to Doi Pui peak (uphill!) and back. From the peak you can continue to a View Point (680 m). The whole trail is in the forest and you're above 1,500 m, so it's much cooler than in the city during the hot season. Bring insect repellent. To get there, rent a motorbike (or find a songthaew that takes you there) and drive all the way to Bhubing Palace, continue on the main road, turn right after about 1 km (turning left will bring you to a mountain village) and continue on a narrow windy road for almost 4 km until you reach the Pui Campsite. Alternatively, walk all the way from Bhubing Palace, there's not much traffic. A sign marks the start of the trail.

Huay Kaew Waterfall and Natural Pools. At the foot of Doi Suthep on Huay Kaew Rd. Look for a large Buddhist shrine (Kruba Srivichai Monument) on your left after travelling past the entrance to Chiang Mai Zoo. Turn left into the market at the back of the shrine, and keep walking up the hill. You will come to the waterfalls after about 5 minutes. The pools at the bottom of the waterfalls are not really big enough for swimming, but are a great place to cool off at the height of summer. During the dry season some of the waterfalls dry up. Head for the high ground and you will still find pools full of fresh water. There are usually quite a few students hanging out there from the nearby university, who will happily practice their English conversational skills with you.

Bua Tong Waterfall, the "Sticky Waterfall" (60 km to the north), is famous for its unique non-slippery limestone rocks, which allow visitors to climb up the waterfall without slipping. The area surrounding the waterfall is lush and green, providing a beautiful backdrop for a day of exploration.

There are several companies who organize 2-3 day long hiking tours. The prices are mostly similar (except when you book at the hotel of course). The program consists of something like minivan pick-up and drop-off, light hiking with a guide, sleeping-over in a hill village, visiting some hill tribe and elephant zoo, rafting. Some basic food should be included too (ask to be sure), and it should be possible to leave the bags at the "booking office". Chiang Dao is famous for its mountain, hill tribes and hikes. Doi Inthanon is the tallest mountain in Thailand, and there are hill tribe villages on its foothills.

Mae Ping River Cruise. Two-hour cruise with a refreshment stop at a Thai farmer's house. Hotel pick-up. Be aware that the Mae Ping is a grotty, slow-flowing stream the colour of greenish khaki with nondescript banks.

Raft trips down the Mae Tang River are offered by several companies and can often be combined with elephant riding or mountain biking. During the dry season (Jan-Feb) water levels are relatively low with only grade 2-3 rapids, but during the rainy season (Jun-Oct) higher water levels make for a more exciting grade 4-5 trip. Also kayaking is available in the surrounding region.

Asian elephants share a close relationship with the Thai people, being used warriors on battlefields and worshiped as religious icons. They have also been used as laborers and loggers, though increasing legal protections have led to a transition towards exhibiting elephants for tourism.

There's a number of elephant sanctuaries in the outer fringes of the urban area, especially to the north past Mae Rim and to the west near Samoeng. Most of these parks offer hotel pickup, and some have booking offices in the city center. Tours are typically for the day, but overnight tours and week-long volunteering experiences are widely available.

Cycling. While you can rent a simple bicycle to go around the city from 50 baht per day, many companies in Chiang Mai offer more comprehensive cycling tours. If you like mountain biking, Doi Suthep offers trails for downhill trips.

Motorbiking. A great way to explore northern Thailand. One good day trip out of Chiang Mai is up and over Doi Suthep, which will take you up to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, and beyond the mountain to the reservoir. A perennial favourite among bicyclists and motorcyclists is the Samoeng Loop, a 100 km circuit into the mountains and back to Chiang Mai. Likewise the Mae Hong Son Loop is also popular with people, but it will take at least a week. For inexperienced drivers, some companies offer special tours.

Golf. Chiang Mai is one of the great golfing destinations in Thailand. The beautiful mountain backdrop, the unrivaled services and affordable green fees made golfing here quite an impressive experience. There is The Annual Chiang Mai Golf Festival during May to June, when almost every golf courses offer very cheap green fees.

Rock Climbing. Approximately 55 km east of Chiang Mai is Crazy Horse Buttress, a 60 m, orange- and black-streaked monolith jutting out of the green Mae On Valley. Crazy Horse boasts more than 130 bolted routes between (French system) grades 5 and 8a, which makes it an ideal destination for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Spend several days exploring every part of the crag, or just spend a day or an afternoon above ground as a break from exploring the magnificent caves of the region.

Aerobics. Aerobics sessions are held in the car park of Tesco Lotus on the superhighway every weekday from 17:30. The sessions are very popular and tourists or visitors to Chiang Mai are welcomed. Regular water aerobics classes, incorporating Tai Chi and yoga exercises, are held at the Centre of the Universe Swimming Pool.

Yoga. The diversity of yoga studios in Chiang Mai rounds out the image of Chiang Mai as a centre for massage training, healing, and spas.

Tennis. There are many places to play tennis in Chiang Mai: Gymkhana Club (Chiang Mai-Lamphun Rd); Chiang Mai Land Village (Chiang Mai Land Rd); Lanna Sports Club (Chotana Rd); Palm Springs (120 Moo 5, Mahidol Rd); and Chiang Mai Sports Complex (700 Year Stadium, Irrigation Canal Rd, Rte 121 to Mae Rim), which has 12 courts. All courts are bookable in advance and at most flood lighting makes it possible to play in the evening when it is cooler.

Nong Buak Haad Park. The only public pack in the old city where locals gather for sepak takra, jogging, yoga, and dancing in the evening and morning. You can also chill out at the cafe or massage shop in the park.

Swimming. Chiang Mai swimming pools open to the public vary in quality, cleanliness, and accessibility. On balance, those pools which are operated to internationally recognised standards of water quality are those which are privately owned by foreign investors.

Entertainment Muay Thai (boxing) After football, Thai boxing is the national sport of Thailand. It can be seen in three different "stadia", in reality more like boxing rings in warehouses.

Kalare Boxing Stadium. Real muay Thai fights (almost) every Monday and Friday at 20:30 with 10 bouts ranging from young novices to local champions to locals v. foreigners. Spoiler alert: The locals usually win. The smallest of the three stadia it is nearly open-air, but with a new tent covering and good lighting. This is much more authentic than the frenzied beer bar atmosphere of the other two locations.

Loi Kroh Boxing Stadium. Fights are usually held 3-4 nights per week. Look for flyers posted up all over the old city. They usually have about 8 fights and feature Thai fighters as well as a few matches with foreign fighters. This is not the best location to see muay Thai with a family, as it is surrounded by girlie bars and during a break between the fights a group of ladyboys sometimes will dance and occasionally strip. After about 23:00 the complex is opened up for free, letting all the vendors (flower sellers and others) in. If you are on a tight budget you may be able to see a few of the remaining fights for free this way.

Tha Phae Boxing Stadium. It hosts around 8 fights per show, including a few matches with foreign fighters. This is the largest of the three stadiums and has food as well as beverages served. Gambling is prominently featured.

Football (soccer). Go watch the local football team, Chiang Mai FC, play at 700 Year Stadium. Fixtures and info in English or visit the Red Lion English Pub in the Night Bazaar two hours before the game to get a free ride (nearly always available).

Cricket. Northern Thailand may seem an odd place to find an international cricket tournament. Every year since 1988 more than 200 cricketers from around the world gather at Chiang Mai for the tournament. The week-long tournament for amateur players, with a sprinkling of test stars, it is held at the historic Chiang Mai Gymkhana Club, generally at the start of April.

The Playhouse Complex. Start your evening with a unique dining experience in Kinnaree Park. Set in an eco-friendly environment, surrounded by mountains and waterfalls offering a real Lanna experience with traditional dance and a delicious northern Thai buffet before entering the theatre adjacent to the restaurant. The 350-seat capacity theatre hosts two shows per day at 20:00 and 22:00. Presenting Sequins & Dance, a fun and happy performance of wholesome entertainment that's full of sparkle, movement, and emotion. Performed by 30 Thai performers, it is exciting. Family, individual or group bookings welcome.

Alliance Francaise. Screens French films, but frequently sub-titled in English. See the website for calendar of showings. The alliance also has an extensive library and exhibitions.

Major Cineplex. Ticket prices depend on the duration of the film and seat type. If you would like to avoid the crowd, avoid going on Thursday, Friday or Saturday nights. Make sure to check the language of the film prior to booking. Some children's movies are dubbed into Thai.

SFX Cinema. Its Zigma CineStadium with Digital 4K and Dolby Atmos is a budget version of Dolby Cinema (there is no Dolby Cinema in Thailand).

Major Cineplex Central Chiang Mai. It has the only IMAX screen in Chiang Mai, which unfortunately is broken as of May 2025.

Learn

Wat Chom Tong. The home temple of the meditation master, Achan Tong. Offers residential courses in Vipassana meditation.

Doi Suthep Vipassana Meditation Center. The International Buddhist Centre offers short and long residential courses in Vipassana meditation in English. A brand new centre, including accommodation and a vitara (chanting hall), is now open.

Wat Ram Poeng. Facilities for retreats and meditation instruction. Ten-day minimum stay required for introduction to Vipassana meditation techniques. English-speaking monks are available to assist foreigners. For non-native English speakers, long-term students from your home country may be available to offer translation services.

Wat Suan Dok. Has a meet-and-greet for tourists and monks, every M W F afternoon between 17:00 and 19:00. Offers a 24-hr introductory meditation retreat on Tuesdays.

Wat Umong. Offers meditation courses and dharma instruction in English by Phra Charles every Sunday at 15:00. Please call only from 08:30-16:00.

Permaculture Children's House. Educational center teaching to work with nature.

Air's Thai Culinary Kitchen. On of the tranquil, landscaped grounds of a private house. The kitchen's unique design draws from professional experience and is purpose-built and surrounded by herb and spice gardens. Offers Course A and Course B. Each is 3 days in length, 08:30-15:00. Free transport to/from hotel.

Baan Thai Cookery School. Courses include a cookbook and market tour. Day or evening classes.

Thai Cottage Home Cookery School. Choose any dish from more than 50 dishes on their menu. 6 dishes per day for morning class and 4 dishes for evening class. The cooking class runs every day.

A Lot Of Thai : Home Cooking School. A family-run home cooking class, taught by the owner. Vegetarians and people with any kind of food restrictions welcome. Courses includes a market tour and a recipe book is provided for later use. Gordon Ramsey visited this place.

Siam Rice Thai Cookery School. Friendly and knowledgeable staff provide a course on local and traditional recipes. The course includes a market tour and provides you with the recipes for the dishes that you create.

AUA. AUA offers seven different 6- and 8-week courses M-F. Group courses start monthly with a minimum of 5 students. Individual instruction any time. Great library for student use, 100 baht per term. Caveats: they use the Haas transliteration system, not everyone's cup of tea. And they also have some petty rules, such as no shorts in class although no one observes the rule. No Wi-Fi.

Centre for Thai Studies, Chiang Mai University Language Institute. 1-year courses and short conversational programs. Website has on-line application form and FAQ.

Payap University. Run by the Southeast Asian Institute of Global Studies, the Thai and Southeast Asian Studies Program at Payap University is a one- or two-semester academic program for students primarily interested in becoming proficient in the Thai language and knowledgeable about Thai culture.

Thai Massage School of Chiang Mai. A government-registered school of Thai massage.

Buy

Chiang Mai is a great place to shop. Sprawling markets during the day and night carry items from cheap trinkets to skillfully made local crafts. Books

The Lost Book Shop. Large collection of used books. Fiction and non-fiction.

Suriwong Book Centre. Essentially two shops: a magazine shop open from 08:00-20:00 and the main, large book/stationery shop open from 10:00-19:00. Good selection of Western language titles, and wide variety of Thai titles, as well as office supplies. Pleasant ambience.

On The Road Books. Small bookstore with a nice selection of used books.

Rimping Supermarkets. If you want Western foodstuffs like good bread, pickles, charcuterie, etc., pickings are slim in the vicinity of the Old City. 9 locations in the Chiang Mai area, map on the website. It's comparatively expensive, but they're one of the few supermarkets that sell western groceries.

Tops Supermarkets. National chain of supermarkets. Good selection of Western foods, including good bread, cheese, wine and beer. There are five Tops locations in the Chiang Mai area, the closest to the old city is behind the Mercure hotel on Chang Phueak Rd.

Kasem Store. A small store a few doors up from Chang Moi Road, situated near but not in Warowot market (to the east of the walled city and just before the Ping River). Has those difficult to get items such as real powdered milk, black loose leafed tea, assorted good cereals, assorted pastries, etc. Has a good assortment of foreign goods including vegetarian and vegan food. Good English spoken.

Housewares and workshops Furniture and woodcarvings – Major woods and materials include teak, rosewood, and rattan. Items may be unadorned or, especially with teak and rosewood, carved in traditional or modern designs. Woodcarving is a traditional northern Thai art featured in numerous temples. In the 2010s, woodcarving increasingly embellished furniture, gracing screens, chairs, tables, beds, figurines, carved elephants. Gold plated orchids and butterflies – Orchids and butterflies are preserved and plated with 24-carat gold to create unusual gift items such as necklace pendants, hairpins, and earrings. Hill tribe products – These include silver ornaments, bracelets, necklaces, pendants, and pipes of intricate design, and embroidered items including tunics, jackets, bags, purses, caps, and dresses. For example, is a shop near airport selling clothes, bags, and other hill tribe products. Lacquer ware – Made of wood, bamboo, metal, paper, and baked clay, in the form of receptacles, ornaments, and various souvenirs. Pottery – Products include high-fired Celadon which is produced in many forms, including dinner sets, lamp bases, and decorative items. Sa (mulberry) paper products – Sa products that come in different, distinctive designs include cards, notebooks, stationery, boxes, bags, photo frames, lanterns, gift wrapping paper. Silverware – Traditional skills and a guaranteed content of at least 92.5% pure silver invest bowls, receptacles, and decorative items. Umbrellas and parasols – These are inextricably associated with Bo Sang where villagers have been engaged in their manufacture for at least 200 years. All materials, silks, cottons, Sa paper (manufactured from the bark of the mulberry tree), and bamboo are produced or found locally.

There are various factories offering factory tours along Rte 1006 (Charoen Muang Rd), just past the superhighway (Rte 11). Silverware, silk, furniture and brass items are generally priced with the cashed-up tourist in mind, but the tours might be worth a look to see how things are made. They are generally open during typical daytime hours.

CentralFestival. Measuring 250,000 m², with 250 shops, it rivals the Central Plaza Chiang Mai in size. Central Festival opened in late 2013 and includes an ice rink, IMAX and 4DX cinemas, dozens of restaurants and shops on five floors. A food court on the fifth floor as well as at the ground floor level (with better prices).

Central Plaza Chiang Mai Airport. On five floors, with a food court, banks/ATMs, and multi-screen cinema. It also has a Cultural Centre attached selling many crafts, a large food market, and an extensive selection of Thai ready-to-eat stalls in the basement.

MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center. The Rimping Supermarket on the lowest floor is open from 06:00-24:00. The cinemas on the top floor are open late. Restaurants and bars on the open roof afford good views of Chiang Mai.

One Nimman. A shopping centre in pseudo-Italian style. Many smaller shops at the ground floor, a kind of department store on the second floor. People who cannot walk very well should not use the escalator to the second floor. Once you are up, it is not possible to go back with the downwards escalator, but you must go through the entire department store, a 250-m walk passing 10 short flights of stairs. There is no warning sign for this when you approach the escalator!

Anusarn Market. During the day time the Anusarn Market area is devoid of any vendor stalls. All the permanent shops, bars, and eateries around the inside walls of the market area are open for business. Every afternoon the Anusarn Market vendors move in, erect their large tent type stalls and open. Haggling is expected at market stalls.

Chiang Mai Gate Market. A major shopping venue for fruit, vegetables, meat, and fish for locals. Between the ring roads and in the vicinity are numerous food stalls.

Kalare Market. A large covered arcade full of shops with an open food court and entertainment area. The food court operates on a coupon system: you buy coupons from the cashiers, then redeem them at the many small adjacent food stalls. Cheap dining. The market has bars, many shops, massage shops.

Night Bazaar. A huge indoor/outdoor commercial maelstrom centred on the Night Bazaar Building on the west side of Changklan Rd. The Night Bazaar can be considered an entire region of the city as it incorporates the Anusarn and Kalare Markets as well, with the borders being ambiguous (and unimportant). It can take a concerted effort to find something different among the near identical stalls selling tourist-oriented sunglasses, T-shirts, textiles, watches, luggage, caps, and anything else small enough to sell from a market stall. You rarely see Thai people shopping here. On the east side of the street you will find the Anusarn and Kalare Markets with wider offerings.

Sompet Market. Just south of the moat's northeast corner. Mostly a fruit and veg market for locals, but close at hand to the many guesthouses in the area so a good place for visitors to stock up on grub. Lots of prepared meat and meals as well.

Tha Phae Walking Street. This market is enormous and takes up several blocks on either side of Ratchadamnoen including from Ratchawithi to Ratchamanka on Prapoklao (from the 3 Kings Monument to past Wat Chedi Luang). The street is blocked off to traffic for local craft vendors to layout their handmade wares. There are food vendors strewn throughout. It starts at 16:00, but not everyone is set up until around 18:00. Runs late, but most vendors start to pack up around 22:00 or so. Due to the amount of families that visit, there is a strict smoking and drinking ban, enforced by fines up to 4,000 baht.

Warorot Market. This sprawling indoor/outdoor market is supposedly where the locals shop and maybe worth a visit to look over the plethora of fabrics, spices, tea, and dried fruit piled up along the aisles. However, you will notice that about 90% of all the shops sell the same, so not much variety or bargaining for that matter. Across the road is a flower and fruit market and an out-of-this-world fireworks stand. At night the street is packed with delicious food stalls — try the one where you can serve the greens yourself, almost like Vietnam.

Wualai Walking Street. In the old silver-working district, it's a smaller version of the Sunday market with many of the same vendors.

Most market in Chiang Mai cater for tourists with inflated prices, tourist souvenirs and unauthentic experiences. The following markets are more on the authentic local experience side of the spectrum:

Sanpakhoi Market. Produces, meat, food stalls, and much more at local prices.

Weekend Flea Market. A large flea market with everything you can imagine, from the odd wooden penis neglace, to watches, to ca––r spare parts and electronics, to countless coins and Buddha amulets. Here you can get a feel for Thai traditions and every day live. Come before noon!

Malin Plaza Night Market. If the Night Bazaar is the place tourists go at night, Malin Plaza is where young Thais go. Its proximity to มช ("maw chaw", the local nickname for CMU) means that in the evening this place is crawling with teens and twenty-somethings. Clothing is young, trendy and cheap. Cheap restaurants abound, including a number of all-you-can-eat table-top barbecues.

Thae Market CNX. Lots of vintage and (2nd hand) cloths stalls at local prices — shoes 100 baht, jackets 200 baht, hats 30 baht. Includes an interesting beyond the ordinary food court with numerous delicacies.

Film Camera Chiang Mai. Located outside the city, this shop has a lot of analogue cameras.

Eat

Chiang Mai's restaurants offer a wide range of food, second only to Bangkok. Naturally it's a good place to sample northern Thai food: in particular, hunt down some khao soi, yellow wheat noodles in curry broth, traditionally served with chicken (kai) or beef (nuea), but available some places as vegetarian or with seafood. Another local specialty is hang ley, Lanna-style pork curry. The area is also a home to a type of pork sausage called sai ua, which is favoured using chilli and various Thai herbs such as lemongrass, galangal and Kaffir lime. For those tired of eating rice or noodles there's also a wide range of excellent international food restaurants, from cheap hamburger stands to elaborate Italian restaurants.

When you come to Chiang Mai you should try a khantoke dinner and show. Although these are just for tourists it is still a nice way to spend an evening. The first khantoke dinner was held in 1953 by Professor Kraisi Nimanhemin who wanted to host a special event for 2 friends leaving Chiang Mai. Two more such dinners were held, both in 1953, thus "khantoke" dinners are not "historic", but rather a relatively recent invention. Khantoke literally means small bowl, low table (khan = small bowl. tok = low table) There are also many garden restaurants where you can enjoy an excellent Thai meal in a beautiful setting.

The range and value of Western food in Chiang Mai is unsurpassed in Northern Thailand and there is a full range of restaurants from Australian/British/Irish, through French and German to Italian, Spanish, American and Mexican. Considering how remote Chiang Mai is from the major centres of population in Asia, there are a remarkable number of Western restaurants.

It can be hard to find strictly vegetarian food in Chiang Mai, as fish and oyster sauce are used frequently, and the local Buddhist monks themselves often eat fish. Thus, asking for your dish to be prepared "like the monks", which works in other places, does not get the same results in Chiang Mai. There are a few completely vegetarian options.

Anusarn Market. A busy outdoor night market with lots of little Thai, Indian and Western restaurants and food vendors. Great atmosphere.

Kalare Food Centre. Has a large open-air food court, featuring free Thai classical dance performances nightly. All food is paid for with pre-purchased coupons.

Suthep Road Moveable Feast. Dozens of food carts set up every evening around from around 17:00 until about 22:00, with a huge variety of very inexpensive food, and tables set up along the pavement.

Lim Lao Ngow Fishball Noodle. Egg noodle and fishballs. Besides common egg noodle, they also offer a flat shape egg node using double proportion of eggs and Hong Kong style flour. Their original branch in Yaowarach (China Town in Bangkok) was listed as Bib Gourmand in Michaelin Guide Bangko.

Koleang Boat Noodle. Serves authentic kuaytiow reua (literally "boat noodles", rice noodles in dark broth with beef). It's good stuff.

Sailomjoy Restaurant. Delicious food (Thai, Western and vegetarian), friendly service and simple and relaxed atmosphere.

The Swan. Free Wi-Fi. Smoking and non-smoking areas. Charming restaurant with a tiny front but a cavernous interior. Good food at good prices. Those unfamiliar with Burmese food are in for a treat.

Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant. Excellent vegetarian food.

Guan Im Vegan Restaurant. Pure vegan restaurant, more of a canteen style. You get rice and choose from a huge variety of dishes with it from a display. You can also choose noodle soups, sweets or vegan satay and such. Try the Khao Soi! (best we had in town)

Ming Kwan Vegetarian Buffet. A different range of Thai vegan dishes from the norm. A focus on faux-meats, the veggie sausage is great, and the faux-fish in curry sauce is good. Of course, bamboo shoot stir fry, noodle soups, etc., means there's lots to try. They cook during the day, so other dishes often appear from the kitchen.

Tien Sieng Vegetarian Foods. Delicious vegan buffet. There are a few great dishes: the tofu, mushroom, and lemon grass wrapped in banana leaves is addictive; the het-hom (shitake) and other protein/gluten goodies are lovely; the steaming noodle soup is a great addition to a meal if you've arrived late and want to warm up the buffet dishes. The earlier the better as when dishes run out, they aren't remade. Also, you can buy some vegan supplies.

Vegan Heaven. A 100% vegan restaurant in the tourist area of Chiang Mai. It has a wide variety of meals: the usual Thai dishes in vegan, such as khao soi, tom yam, tom kha and pad see ew, but also breakfast meals, sandwiches and even vegan hot dogs and burgers.

Vegan Society. Vegan restaurant as well as a homestay.

Ghekko Garden Bar and Restaurant. Highlights are lemon grass beef, sun-dried beef and chili crab. See the bar blackboard for daily specials.

Hong Tauw Inn. Thai food. Inside you might think you are in a clock museum. The front part of the restaurant has a high ceiling with fans, giving it a colonial atmosphere.

Huen Muan Jai. Wooden Lanna-style buildings in a very nice garden. Can have a big waiting-for-tables crowd outside in the winter period.

Archers Bar and Restaurant. Some say the baguettes are better than in France, which is nonsense, but they may well be the best in Thailand. Very well-run establishment, with outstanding food, great staff and ambience. Owners, Mark and Sa.

Chiangmai Saloon. American-style burger and steakhouse. Friendly staff, nice atmosphere, music videos and sports on three 3-m screens, pool tables and free Internet, free popcorn and peanuts, over 50 kinds of margaritas, Chang beer on tap. Is open everyday from breakfast until late.

Cafe de Siam. Continental breakfast and American breakfast offered. It's hard to find an early-morning breakfast in Chiang Mai due to the number of tourists on hotel package deals, but this place does. Free Wi-Fi.

Dash! Restaurant & Bar. Possibly the best value in Chiang Mai. Wonderful ambiance, with indoor or outdoor seating. Great food, cocktails and desserts at more than reasonable prices. Cooking classes offered on-site. Also has a 3-bedroom, 2-bath house for rent at 3,000 baht per day.

The Duke's Ping River. Excellent American-style dishes and desserts: ribs, burgers, pizza, cheesecake, etc. Full bar with local and imported beers and wines. Great family atmosphere, children's menu, no loud music or entertainment, just good food. Eat in, take away & call for delivery.

La Fourchette. Authentic French restaurant in the centre of the old city. Large selection of imported meats and wines at affordable prices. Romantic open-air seating area with upstairs art gallery.

My Place Lounge. Sports bar with a full food menu, breakfast (including hash browns), burgers, Buffalo wings, nachos, panini, salads, sandwiches, Thai food, and cheesesteaks. All the major sports are shown here, including UFC, Premier League, NFL, Superbowl, NBA, Formula 1 (F1), AFL (Aussie Rules), NRL, and Rugby. Free pool table, along with free Wifi.

Norden Restaurant Chiang Mai. A modern European restaurant with our roots & inspiration from Scandinavia all cooked from a Swedish chef & owner. Then menu has many steaks, BBQ ribs, Pizza, and Nordic Food. Very reasonably priced.

O'Malley's Irish Pub. Delicious cocktails and excellent Western and Thai food. Has inside (air conditioned) and outside (smoking) seating. The interior closely resembles an authentic pub. This place does all the small things well: Tabasco, Lea & Perrins on the tables, soap and towels in the toilets, spotlessly clean. Not cheap, but the food is superb and the portions generous. Free Wi-Fi.

The Red Lion English Pub. Draught Guinness and Heineken, imported Blackthorn Cider and Fuller's London Pride, and Belgian and German beers. Pub favourites including bangers 'n mash, fish 'n chips, steak & kidney pie as well as steaks, pasta and Thai food. Live sports on a HD big screen including Premier League Football, Aussie Rules, Rugby and Formula 1.

The Salad Concept. Order by completing a form which is then handed to the staff. Fast and efficient, and the food is very good. Second location on 5F of Central Festival Mall. Third location on Chaiyapoom Rd, just E of the moat.

Fuji. While perhaps not a special restaurant in that it is not unique to Chiang Mai (it's actually a large chain), for those seeking reasonably-priced Japanese food, Fuji is a must. There are several spectacular set meals that offer superb value, e.g., the Fuji Sashimi Set which can easily fill up a sushi lover

Blue Diamond. Thai and Western, huge selection of items for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Great salads, fruits, fruit juices, noodle dishes, bakery, good breads. Very nice garden seating available.

Gulf Restaurant. Lebanese owner/chef caters to Middle Eastern food lovers. Large portions of delicious tabbouleh, tahini salads and humus alongside fresh falafel and flat bread. Shisha/nargila/water pipes are available as well as mint tea.

Pun Pun Vegetarian Slow Food. Thai vegetarian with organic ingredients from local farmers and many vegan-friendly options. Run by a local self-reliance and seed-saving centre outside the city.

Mr. Green. All vegan, high quality Thai dishes offered such as stir-fried noodles and curries. Pumpkin curry is a favourite. Drinks and dessert available as well. Art gallery upstairs.

V T Namneung. Handsome 2-storey restaurant with air-con upstairs. Serves what amounts to Vietnamese tapas: spring rolls, salted pork ribs, nem; all with lots of leafy greens. Serve beer, but the fresh fruit juices are better. Do very little to cater to visitors as most everything is in Thai including signs and menus. At the entry have a shop that offers many of their products packaged for take-away. The website lists their catering offerings.

Galae Garden Restaurant. Thai food and grilled specialties, some of them regional, in a delightful outdoor setting.

Khum Khantoke. Traditional northern Thai cuisine. To get a good seat reservations are recommended. It offers all you can eat

Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre. The first commercial khantoke dinner in Chiang Mai more than 30 years ago. They have the best northern Thai food of any of the khantoke establishments. However the seating, show and music are not as good as others.

Arcobaleno Italian Restaurant. Open for lunch and dinner with a range of traditional Italian soup, pasta, antipasti, meat and vegetarian dishes. Homemade ice cream. Note: since March 2024 they moved to the address given here.

The House by Ginger. Old 1930s colonial style house in the city centre. Western and Thai food, Pacific Rim and fusion. Free Wi-Fi. Shop with unusual houseware items on the premises.

Piccola Roma Palace Italian Restaurant. Open lunch & dinner amid beautiful surroundings. Serving residents for over 15 years. Menu and recipes on website. Reservations recommended. Call for free transportation.

Drink

Chiang Mai's nightlife is the most happening in the north, although still a far cry from Bangkok's hot spots. The busiest night life zones are near Tha Phae Gate, Loi Kroh Rd and along Charoen Rat Rd on the east bank of the Ping River.

Coffee Chiang Mai is one of the top destinations for coffee tourism in Asia, and attracts visitors from many countries.

Akha Ama. Moved to this new location from the Santitham area.

Akha Ama Phrasingh. Now next door at a bigger location, having two floors.

Chapter 2W0. A gem of a cafe set in a sprawling garden. Excellent coffee and juice concoctions. Mouthwatering breads and desserts.

Cool Muang. Using 100% Thai Arabica coffee beans.

J. Ju Coffee. Run by "Oil", this little place has excellent espresso-based drinks, free Wi-Fi, or ten minutes on the computer with your coffee. Very modern design; seating in the front is open-air while the back is air conditioned. Oil speaks excellent English and is happy to give you the low-down.

Ristr8to. A trendy art cafe featuring an award-winning barista (world champion latte art 2017), choices of single-origin beans and a varied drink menu. Very friendly atmosphere at much higher standard than is normally seen in Thailand.

Sky Café. Nice situation on a busy road with across that road a pond where often horses are bathed around 11:00. Espresso is brewed very well, using good coffee beans.

The Baristro Coffee Roaster. Small local chain of coffee places, this one is at the river with garden seats direct at the river. See their website for the other locations.

Alcohol Bars close at midnight in Chiang Mai. While the police is strict about this, it is not uncommon that bars close their front door, not letting in anyone anymore and continue playing music and serving drinks for another 1–3 hr.

Many, but by no means all, of Chiang Mai's tourist-oriented bars and pubs are located along Loi Kroh Rd (ถนนลอยเคระห์), outside the southeast quadrant of the old city. In addition to the street bars, the Chiang Mai Entertainment Complex (CMEC) (the CMEC sign is not prominent. Much more so is a lighted sign in front, Loikroh Boxing Stadium) can be found at the Night Bazaar-end of Loi Kroh. Here you will find around 30 bars ranging from sports bars that feature big screens to watch sports and play pool, to Pattaya-style girlie "beer bars", to even bars staffed exclusively by kathoeys (ladyboys). The complex also features a muay Thai boxing ring that has exhibition bouts for free or a voluntary donation, and on some nights (varies) real competitive boxing that requires an entrance fee unless your bar has provided you with complimentary viewing. And for extra fun, the occasional Westerner climbs into the ring, usually with hilarious results.

Also take a stroll along Moon Muang Road and its side Sois 1 and 2. Here you can find small expat hangouts and sports bars. Most have pool tables and hostesses, along with music videos or various TV sport programmes. Be aware that despite their charm and friendliness, the pressure to purchase lady drinks can result in a very surprising tab at the end of the night.

Gay bars Since 2015 Chareon Prathet Soi 6 at Chiang Mai Night Bazaar has become home to many gay bars and is now known locally as gay soi 6. However, Soi 6 is not a gay-only street, as there are many other bars. The gay venues here are:

Ram bar. A locally owned and gay owned, straight friendly gay bar featuring daily shows.

Blow. A small bar with young crowd. Small scale drag show on Thursday and Saturday from 22:15 to 23:30 approximately (sometimes it started later if queens arrived later). No entrance fee for drag shows. The show stage is simply space between tables on two side, and one staff will stand near the entrance door holding a flashlight for lightning.

6ixcret. Located in the Night Bazar building, this famous gay bar is transitioning to a night club to attract more people including tourists. Drag show and cabaret show starts at 21:30 to midnight. No entrance fee, but there is a two drink minimum.

Sapphic Riot. A FLINTA/lesbian/queer/feminist bar.

86's Room. A decent dancing gay bar.

Live music The area along the east bank of the Mae Ping River on Charoen Rat Rd is famous for jazz, rock, pop, Thai, and country and Western live music, along with restaurants serving Thai, Western and Chinese food. Coming from the centre of the city, just walk from the Night Bazaar across the Nawarat Bridge, from where all the restaurants can be seen along the river on the left.

Most bands in Chiang Mai play for about an hour, and then move on to do the same at another restaurant or pub, so don't be surprised to see the same band if you move venues.

Boy Blues Bar. The owner, "Boy", is a nephew of Chiang Mai legend "Took", of the now defunct Brasserie. Monday night is jamming night with great visiting musicians. Bangkok blues legend, Chai (of Chai's Blues Bar fame), often joins in. Well worth a visit.

Camellia & Co. Music groups of 4-6 persons.

Chit Hole CNX. Besides the funny name, it is a place with 16 different kinds of draft beer, some local ones from Chiang Mai. Small music groups of 2-3 persons.

The Good View. Thai and Western varieties of rock, jazz, pop and country music in the evening. Their extensive menu offers more than 150 Thai, Chinese, and Western dishes, including curries, noodles, rice and pizza. Full-service bar serving wine, beer and spirits. If you want to get in, get there early and there's a queue every night.

The North Gate Jazz Collective. Nightly jazz performances starting around 21:30 with different performers and occasional guests from the audience. A surprisingly young crowd for the type of music they play here. If you are a music enthusiast, the performance can be a mixed bag: sometimes great, sometimes mediocre. However, the range of available stimulants in Chiang Mai will ensure that you will have a great time, especially if you come here with friends. Serves a variety of drinks not normally found in Chiang Mai, notably red and white wine, mojitos and other mixed drinks. The staff are quick and efficient, and the prices are reasonable.

Riverside Restaurant. The live music starts around 19:00 with dinner music from the Eagles, Beatles or soft jazz. Starting at 21:00, the music changes to more rock and pop. The restaurant gets very crowded, so arrive early to get a table. The Riverside also offers a nightly dinner cruise departing at 20:00 for 110 baht/person extra.

The Moat House. Rock and blues bands in the downstairs bar and a chilled out rooftop bar above. Long list of cocktails, beers and wines.

The Sax Music House. Music groups of 6-8 persons, each group playing for about one hour. Large collection of liquor with high end ones like a 21-year-old Glenfiddich.

Ben Cocktail Bar. A tiny, hole-in-the-wall (~15 seat) cocktail bar that just may serve the best cocktails in Chiang Mai. Run by Ben, an irrepressible, animal-loving, lovely female and her partner, Keng. She is especially proud of her mojitos, but all the 270 cocktails on offer are delicious. The conversation is good too as she speaks excellent English. Free Wi-Fi. Great place to people watch.

Chiang Mai Cabaret Show. A nightly revue, dancing to Western tunes by ladyboys in lavish costumes. The one hour show is tame and family-friendly, with children frequently in the audience. Lots of dancing to ABBA tunes and extravagant costumes, with no nudity. Good fun. Happy Hour precedes the show, 19:30-20:30, and also follows the show.

Dragonfly Bar. One of the smaller bars at the top of Loi Kroh but also one of the most cosy. What really make this place stand out is the friendly staff and that this bar has two floors so you can get away from the bustle of street level and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere from the balcony.

Number 1 Bistro/Cafe. Great expat bar. Free Wi-Fi with electrical outlets spaced at one metre intervals under the bar. They specialise in Belgian beer as well as having eight draught beers on tap, including domestic and Guinness. Excellent kitchen serving Thai and farang food, although the latter can be pricy: pad Thai is 80 baht, while the cheeseburger is expensive at 250 baht (July 2015). Number 1 is a refuge in Chiang Mai's red light district as it has no bar girls hassling you for a drink. And it's one of the few places on Loi Kroh where you can comfortably take a date. Two excellent pool tables, 20 baht per game (July 2015).

Nimmanhaemin Rd Northwest of the city centre, the area around Nimmanhaemin Rd is a popular hangout for younger Thais, perhaps due to its proximity to Chiang Mai University ("maw chaw"). The pubs tend to straddle a fine line between bar, restaurant and nightclub, and feature loud music interspersed with live bands fronted by musicians who are most likely hitting the books in the daytime. Tourists looking for something racier are better off staying in the east side of the city. Little English is spoken in this part of the city. Little doesn't mean none, however, and the staff of many bars, being students, still can understand what do you want, or even sometimes can speak English reasonably well.

Mali Cat Cafe & Bar. The biggest cat cafe in Chiang Mai.

Warm Up Bar. This chain bar/restaurant/club has several venues in Thailand. The venue in Chiang Mai is a lot less touristy and the dance hall packed to the brim with Thai students.

The Writers Club. An old fashioned bar and restaurant purportedly for SE Asia's community of authors, journalists and screenwriters, though everyone's welcome. A good, informal source of information about SE Asia. This is where some of those writing guidebooks gather.

Zoe in Yellow. Very large indoor/outdoor bar and club with a dance floor, live music or DJ, including lots of outdoor seating and multiple bars. If you're looking to party with foreigners in Chiang Mai, this is the place to be. Closes exactly at midnight except on special occasions, such as New Year or Songkran.

Clubbing The clubbing and electronic music scene has quite developed in the last years. And while you will certainly not find any venue packed with hundreds of people like in Bangkok, the local scene can still be considered a jewel and a must for all lovers of electronic music and their derivatives. However, clubs come and go, so keep your ears open for any new venues that have popped up.

CaveCave 洞洞. A small club for about 50 people — positive atmosphere with Techno and Psy music or the accidental Old School Electro. Also, one of the less expensive venues with an according more alternative crowd.

Deaf Shop. A small vinyl listening bar with a cozy atmosphere that seems to serve as a shop during the day. At night a curated selection of LPs and hosts events with guest DJs makes it a unique spot for music lovers in the city. It fits only a tiny crowd of about 30–50 people, so don't come too late! After midnight they will close the front gate to continue raving — don't worry, this is not a scheme to distort money!

Liquid Room. A full blown EDM club (House, Techno, and Trance) with regular international DJs. It features a lively bar experience with eclectic drinks for those guests willing to spend. Probably the largest of the clubs in Chiang Mai.

Noise. A prominent and cozy Chinese Underground Techno Club, if that doesn't sound too racist. A dark venue with likewise darker kind of electronic music for a crowd that enjoys deep and experimental tunes.

Red CNX. A western orientated club known for its energetic atmosphere with famous host DJs from time to time and electronic music genres like House and Techno. Young and hip. Due to its size (more than 150 people), it will need a decent crowd to be fun. Don't pay entrance if you are not 100% sure that there is a crowd inside, ready to let loose.

Sleep

Accommodation in Chiang Mai is generally cheap, even by Thai standards. All types of lodging are available from inexpensive guest-houses with little or no service to the typical high rise hotels and elaborate garden resorts. The latest boom is Thai-style boutique resorts located near the old city centre — several have been built since mid-2005, and offer excellent service in quiet garden settings; most are fairly small with as few as 8 rooms and a pool, and are decorated with Thai crafts and antiques.

Evenings in Chiang Mai are cooler than Bangkok and the south during the dry season, so air conditioning may be less of a priority.

Some of the cheapest accommodation may refuse guests who are not also booking a trekking package. If so, please remove them from Wikivoyage.

2230 Hostel. This hostel doubles as a local bar. Free coffee at any time of the day or night. Complimentary use of the washing machine and kitchen. Nineteen rooms that can house 38. Two showers and three toilets are located on each of the five floors. Rooms contain two pod-style bunkbeds.

7 Century Guest House. Guest house that is a bit worn. Singles can be a bit mouldy due to poor drainage and ventilation. Good hot shower (private for single rooms, shared for double and triple). Terrace. Free Wi-Fi. If they have a laptop free you can borrow it to take to your room. Fan in rooms. Kitchen free to use. Soft beds. Service also available in German. Help with booking trips, treks, motorbikes and other things. Friendly staff.

Baan Na Na. Small and simple guest house attached to the back of a pleasant but moderately priced cafe and restaurant. Friendly staff, shared basic Western bathrooms with warm shower, shared with cafe so can get heavy use at peak times. Good Wi-Fi in rooms. Fan dorm 100 baht, air-con dorm 150 baht, double fan room 200 baht, double air-con room 350 baht.

B.R. Hotel. Simple, but cosy Thai hotel. Fan rooms are often sold out, however an air-con room with TV and small balcony is an excellent value during hot or wet season. No Wi-Fi (but Truemove 850 MHz 3G works perfectly). While the hotel is not far from the centre, the closest place where you can catch a public songthaew (near Kad Suan Kaew Mall) is almost 1 km away, so the place is better suited for those who rent a motorbike. Free parking. On the nearby intersection with Hasadhisawee Rd, there are numerous and cheap food stalls in the evening. Hotel staff generally do not speak English. If no vacancy, there's Inthanon Hotel next on the same road.

Bed and Terrace Guest House. Thai modern-style guest house with terrace, comfortable rooms with double windows overlook a mountain panorama.

Bunchun Art Hostel. A great chill-out art hostel, a place to meet new friends other travelers and local Thais. Lots of little dogs and chickens. Wifi. 2 private rooms, 3 mixed dorms. 100 baht for dorms, 400 baht for privates.

FWD House Hostel. A 10-minute walk to the temples and Loi Kroh Rd, and a minute walk to the Sunday night market. Owner and staff are welcoming, friendly, can cater to your personal needs, and also make you feel at home.

Giant Guest House 1 & 2. Two guest houses. Cheap basic rooms, hot showers, free Wi-Fi, free shared computer, free bicycles, free water, reggae bar attached (Freedom Bar 16:00-24:00). Can book everything here and sightsee by bicycle. Kitchen with cooking lessons available and massage school 200 m away. Watch out for the 300 baht room "switch" after they pick you up in the airport.

Hollanda Montri Guest House. Family-style guesthouse, fan or air-con rooms, and with a tropical garden on the banks of the Mae Ping River.

Linda Guesthouse. East of Tha Phae Gate, easily accessible on songthaew routes. Very clean rooms. The guest house also offers many trekking tours. The staff speak German, English and Thai. Family-like atmosphere. Cheap and very good food around the clock, freshly made.

A Little Bird Guesthouse. Cheap basic dorms with hot shower and free Wi-Fi. An easy place to meet people in a good location.

Mint House. Really friendly and helpful staff. Centrally located, clean and good prices for dorms and rooms. Rooms have dedicated bathrooms that, strangely, are not en suite, but all across the hallway. Don't be a wimp when this happens.

Ping River Inn. A basic but clean inn along the Ping River near Nakorn Ping Bridge and the yellow songthaew route. Hot showers, two bottles of free drinking water, towels, roof access, cable, and free Wi-Fi. If the foot bridge over the river ever gets fixed, the Ping River Inn will be within five minutes walking distance of Warorot Market.

Riders Corner. De facto motorcyclist headquarters in Chiang Mai. Clean and comfortable. Full restaurant and bar. Five rooms and frequently fully booked. Free Wi-Fi. Secure parking for motorcycles. English owner is helpful and free with information. Sells good maps of north Thailand.

Spicy House. Perhaps the friendliest little guest house in Chiang Mai. Mim, the owner, gives a free meal for guests every night. She is also an expert chef, and Spicy House sometimes acts as a cooking school. It is in the centre of the Chiang Mai action, but down a quiet soi where you can withdraw from it when needed.

Tha Phae Inn. Family-run guesthouse. Friendly. Excellent value/location combination. Basic double rooms with baths, hot water & small TV. Free Wi-Fi. Common area with tables so you can bring food and eat. Refreshments for sale on-premises. Basic double air-con room with en suite shower, no fridge, old furniture, but generally clean.

YMCA International Hotel. 88 rooms and dormitory. Restaurant, swimming pool, coffee shop, massage.

Boonthavon Apartment Hotel. Dead central, and probably the cleanest hotel in Chiang Mai. Extremely friendly staff (only a few of whom speak English). Security entrance. A short walk to the Tha Phae Gate in the old city (nice central location). Monthly rentals are available deposit (there are additional charges: electricity, for unlimited Internet, for cable TV and for water). Location is great. Just around the corner is a great little cafe called "Angel's" which serves a mix of Thai food and really great Western breakfasts. The location of the hotel is also a short walk to several excellent restaurants and cafes such as the UN Irish Pub, New Delhi Indian Restaurant, and Loco Elvis Tex-Mex.

BP Chiang Mai City Hotel. A mid-sized hotel with a small fitness centre and pool.

Centre of the Universe. With only 3 detached Thai-style bungalows in a private garden, this has to be the smallest boutique hotel with the biggest swimming pool in Chiang Mai. Very friendly and helpful staff. Each room has air-con, TV, Wi-Fi, fridge, tea and coffee making facilities and access to 3 swimming pools.

Chiang Mai Apartments. Very central, clean and bright rooms. Excellent quality. Free Wi-Fi in room.

Cool Guesthouse. Small boutique guesthouse with patio and garden. Free bicycle use for guests. English, French, and Spanish speaking staff. Each room has air-con and fan, cable TV, free Wi-Fi, safe.

Elliebum Boutique Hotel. Friendly boutique guesthouse, beautifully furnished, spacious, spotlessly clean, air conditioned, en suite twin or double rooms. Breakfast included.

Lai-Thai Guest House. A large northern Thai-style guesthouse with hotel-like facilities and services. All 110 air-conditioned rooms en suite with hot shower are decorated with traditional wooden floors and bamboo walls, equipped with minibar, cable & satellite TV, and free Wi-Fi.

Liam's Suan Dok Mai. Beautifully decorated guest house on the northern outskirts of the city that was built from scratch by a Belgian couple. Offers comfortable and spacious rooms with air conditioning, a pool, and a nice dining area for meals. One can find plenty of places nearby to eat and drink as residents in the village setup tables outside of their homes and operate small-time restaurants and bars. Provides a good mix of comfortable lodging with hosts that fluently speak several languages. Also pet-friendly. Free shuttle service from Chiang Mai.

Nice Mum Lodge. Oddly named, but a superior accommodation. Close to shops, bars, restaurants, the Night Bazaar. Spotlessly clean, if somewhat austere. Run by the affable Mr Pong, who speaks good English. Great plumbing, showers, large flat screen TVs with Western programmes, fridge. Secure, covered parking for those turning up with expensive rides. Highly recommended. Free, excellent free Wi-Fi.

Royal Peninsula Hotel. Good rooms, air-con, hot water, bar fridge and TV. Huge and a bit old building, but OK if you're not looking for luxury. At times (especially during the low season) may be available for 500-600 baht on various hotel booking websites - that's a steal!

Sakulchai Place. Spacious and clean. Internet (Wi-Fi/LAN), air-con, hot showers. New building, modern rooms. In the trendy Nimmanhaemin district across from shopping mall and 5-10 minute walking distance to night life, cafes, restaurants.

Siri Guesthouse. A family-run guest house on a popular, but quiet lane. Fan and air-con rooms, all with bathrooms and hot water. Free Wi-Fi.

Sleep guesthouse. Nicely decorated loft/industrial design guesthouse. Double and twin rooms.

Smile House Boutique. A wooden house which is simply decorated to create a peaceful atmosphere. The rooms are beautifully decorated.

Sri-Pat Guesthouse. Nice guest house with air conditioning, TV, private shower, fridge and a little balcony. Try getting a room on the street side, since the other side has a water pump working during the night which can be annoying in some rooms.

Swiss-Lanna Lodge. Renovated (as of 2015) wooden northern Thai-style guesthouse. It touts its "extremely friendly and helpful" staff, which it says speak English and French provide great tourist information.

Viangbua Mansion. Deluxe serviced-apartments for monthly rental. Offer a wide range of services and some degree of security. In a somewhat remote NW area of the city.

Royal Train Garden Resort. Located in an area far from the city with beautiful natural view, this resort features an old steam locomotive and trains. It has normal rooms in a concrete building and wooden houses in traditional Lanna style. (Wooden houses may be unavailable in off-season for renovation though.) The resort has a restaurant and a public swimming pool (some house has its dedicated swimming pool). For visitors without a car or a motorbike, Grab is available for transportation in the area around the resort.

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort. Located along the banks of Mae Ping River, 52 rooms and 32 suites with private balconies. Has a fitness center and guests can attend cooking classes.

Baan Orapin. 6 rooms in a beautifully restored old Thai house set in a small garden. Air-con, hot water.

Dhara Dhevi. In the traditional Lanna-style, this 24 hectare (60 acre) resort includes a spa, cooking classes, children's club, and fitness centre. The resort caused some local controversy when it built a reproduction temple based on one of Thailand's most holy sites on its grounds.

Duangtawan Hotel. Popular with tour groups and conventions. Probably a little cheaper than similar hotels as it's near the beer bar district, but the area is quite safe and the hotel is high quality. For those not staying at the hotel, for 300 baht per day, you can use the excellent gym on the fourth floor (includes a gender-segregated Jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna, as well as a large L-shaped swimming pool that looks out on the city centre). Free Wi-Fi and maintains a quiet "computer corner" with about 10 computers for guest use. A word of warning for those who care: if all guest rooms are similar to Room 1433, guestroom toilets have no bum guns, just toilet paper. A show-stopper for some!

Empress Chiang Mai. Luxury hotel in traditional Lanna-style with 375 rooms and suites, a convention centre, sauna rooms, outdoor swimming pool, business centre and massage parlour. Good breakfast and friendly staff.

Horizon Village & Resort. The hotel is connected to the Tweechol Botanical Garden, a private garden of 50 hectares. The garden has many animal-shaped shrubs. Former US president Jimmy Carter stayed here when in Thailand for the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project.

Lanna Tree Boutique Hotel. Boutique hotel with great location, onsite restaurant, outdoor pool, massage.

Mövenpick Suriwongse Hotel Chiang Mai. Situated in the heart of Chiang Mai, the hotel's contemporary interior incorporated into the decor of 266 rooms and suites its traditional Thai Lan Na architecture. The atmospheric dining scene serves both local Thai dishes and classic international specialities. Fueng Fah restaurant offers a vast selection of local and global food at its breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets (18:00-21:00 - 299 baht, kôw soy noodle soup 160 baht, watermelon shake 100 baht). At Le Bistrot & Le Terrace, sample that Thai culinary twist in Mediterranean specialities, alongside traditional Italian pizzas and pastas. The Pool Bar is a laid-back zone for light meals and cocktails by the poolside, while Sweet House takes centre-stage when it comes to indulgent pastries, Mövenpick ice cream, aromatic coffees and infused teas (Thai iced tea 50 baht, Thai tea cake 65 baht). Empty minibar on private purpose to fill it. The hotel is perfect for culture buffs and adventure seekers, with easy access to hundreds of temples and spectacular zip lines in the surrounding forest. On Friday the friendly 170-person staff works in local traditional Lan Na style uniform. Free one-way shuttle service to Saturday and Sunday walking street market at 18:00. Free WiFi, complimentary tea and coffee making facility, LED TV, safety box, air conditioner, gym, spa, outdoor swimming pool, minivan to Chiang Mai International Airport (100 baht), bike rent (100 baht per day/1,000 baht deposit). Sean Connery and the Eagles stayed here.

Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel & Spa. Nicely designed with hand-carved fretwork.

RatiLanna Riverside Spa Resort. A luxury boutique resort on the bank of the Mae Ping River and the centre of Chiang Mai. Only minutes away from Chiang Mai Airport and the Night Bazaar.

The Rim Chiang Mai. Luxury hotel in traditional Lanna-style, 36 rooms, outdoor swimming pool, tropical garden, fitness club, and spa, restaurant (Thai & Western cuisine) and very friendly staff.

Work

Chiang Mai is a hotspot for digital nomads. As such, there are lots of services catering to help them with visas and finding medium-term rentals.

Yellow Coworking Space. Popular coworking space that hosts many events and is open 24/7.