Destination
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is northern Thailand's temple-filled old city, a base for elephant sanctuaries, hill-tribe treks, cooking classes and a relaxed cafe scene.
Trips to Chiang Mai from every city
No live trip to Chiang Mai right now. Ask for one and we price it for your city.
When to go
| Month | Season |
|---|---|
| January | best |
| February | best |
| March | avoid |
| April | avoid |
| May | fine |
| June | fine |
| July | fine |
| August | fine |
| September | fine |
| October | fine |
| November | best |
| December | best |
- November: Yi Peng lantern release and Loy Krathong under the November full moon.
- February: Flower Festival parade in the first weekend of February.
- December, January: Cool, clear season with chilly mornings in the mountains.
March, April: Burning season: smoke haze gives the year's worst air quality, alongside peak heat.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
- Old City: Inside the moat, with temples, night markets and guesthouses all within walking distance.
- Nimmanhaemin: Cafe and design district popular with digital nomads.
- Riverside (Ping River): Boutique hotels and restaurants along the water near the Night Bazaar.
- Mae Rim: Countryside resorts 30 minutes north among rice paddies and elephant sanctuaries.
What to do in Chiang Mai
- Day with rescued elephants at Elephant Nature Park
- Doi Suthep temple at dawn above the city
- Sunday Walking Street market on Ratchadamnoen Road
- Khao soi at a Nimman noodle shop
- Thai cooking class with a market tour
- Drive up Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak
Good to know
| Airports | Chiang Mai International (CNX) |
|---|---|
| Passport for US citizens | yes |
| Price level | budget-friendly |
| Time zone | Asia/Bangkok |
| Kind of trip | culture, nature, food, wellness, adventure |
Questions about Chiang Mai
When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
November, December, January and February. March, April: Burning season: smoke haze gives the year's worst air quality, alongside peak heat.
Do US citizens need a passport for Chiang Mai?
Yes. Chiang Mai is in Thailand; bring a valid passport.
How expensive is Chiang Mai on the ground?
Chiang Mai is budget-friendly by US standards: plan about $60 per person per day for food, getting around and tickets.