Over 300 temples, elephant sanctuaries, and the world's finest Thai cooking school await in the mountains.
Chiang Mai is the cultural and spiritual capital of northern Thailand, offering a completely different experience from Phuket or Bangkok. Over 300 Buddhist temples, the mystical Doi Suthep mountain temple, elephant sanctuaries, weekly night markets, and a world-renowned Thai cooking school make it a favourite for both backpackers and food travellers. The old city is surrounded by a historic wall and moat.
7M
visitors/year
Best time to visit
November–February — cool and dry, the best season; March–April is hot and smoky
Top sights & experiences
- 🛕 Doi Suthep Temple
- 🐘 Elephant sanctuary
- 🏘️ Old City & temples
- 🌙 Sunday Walking Street
- 👨🍳 Thai cooking class
- 🏔️ Doi Inthanon National Park
- 🌙 Night Bazaar
- 🏯 Chiang Rai day trip
Perfect for
CultureFood travelNatureAdventure
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