Chiang Mai Thailand

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, a cultural and spiritual hub in northern Thailand, is a must-visit destination for any traveller. With its rich history, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning scenery, Chiang Mai has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat, where to stay, and tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Places to Visit

  1. Doi Suthep-Pui National Park: A mountainous park with stunning views of Chiang Mai city and surrounding countryside. Take a hike or drive to the top for breathtaking sunsets.
  2. Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center: A modern art museum showcasing Thai art, history, and culture.
  3. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: A beautiful temple perched on a mountain peak with stunning views of Chiang Mai city.
  4. Elephant Nature Park: A sanctuary for rescued elephants, offering trekking and bathing experiences.
  5. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: A bustling market selling everything from souvenirs to street food.
  6. Bo Sang Umbrella Village: A village famous for its handmade umbrellas and silk products.
  7. Chiang Mai City Museum: A museum showcasing the city’s history, art, and culture.

Activities

  1. Cooking Class: Learn how to make traditional Thai dishes like pad thai and green curry at a cooking school.
  2. Trekking: Explore Chiang Mai’s countryside on foot or by bike with a local guide.
  3. Elephant Trek: Take a trek through the jungle with rescued elephants.
  4. Cycling: Rent a bike and explore Chiang Mai city and surrounding countryside.
  5. Massage: Treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage at a local spa.
  6. Hot Air Balloon Ride: See Chiang Mai from a new perspective with a hot air balloon ride.
  7. Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in the Ping River or nearby lakes.

Where to Eat

  1. Som Tam Nua: A popular restaurant serving traditional Thai dishes like papaya salad and green curry.
  2. The Good View Restaurant: Enjoy stunning views of Chiang Mai city while dining on international cuisine.
  3. Huen Mork Tong: A family-run restaurant serving delicious Thai food at affordable prices.
  4. Kad Luang: A restaurant serving traditional Lanna (northern Thai) cuisine.
  5. Mee Ton Nam: A popular street food stall serving noodle soup and other dishes.

Where to Stay

  1. The Chiang Mai Orchid Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort with a spa, pool, and beautiful gardens.
  2. The Anantara Chiang Mai Resort: A 5-star hotel with a spa, pool, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  3. The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai: A luxury boutique resort with a spa, pool, and beautiful gardens.
  4. The 100th Monkey Guesthouse: A budget-friendly guesthouse in the heart of Chiang Mai city.
  5. The Baan Thai Residence: A family-run guesthouse offering comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

Things to Know

  1. Language: Thai is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  2. Currency: Thai baht (THB) is the local currency, but US dollars and credit cards are accepted in tourist areas.
  3. Weather: Chiang Mai has a tropical climate with three seasons: hot (February-May), cool (June-October), and wet (November-January).
  4. Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting temples or attending cultural events.
  5. Respect Local Customs: Respect local customs, especially when visiting temples or interacting with monks.

Transportation

  1. Airport Transfer: Take a taxi or shuttle from Chiang Mai International Airport to your accommodation.
  2. Tuk-Tuks: Ride in a traditional tuk-tuk (three-wheeled vehicle) for short trips around the city.
  3. Songthaews: Use shared minivans for longer journeys around the city and surrounding countryside.
  4. Bicycles: Rent a bike to explore Chiang Mai city and surrounding countryside on foot or by bike.
  5. Walking: Explore the city on foot, especially in areas with pedestrian-friendly streets.

Tips

  1. Haggle: Haggle at markets and from street vendors to get the best prices.
  2. Bargain: Bargain for goods and services when possible.
  3. Be Patient: Be patient when dealing with bureaucracy or waiting for services.
  4. Respect Local Culture: Respect local customs, especially when visiting temples or interacting with monks.
  5. Stay Hydrated: Stay hydrated in Chiang Mai’s hot climate by drinking plenty of water.

Essential Information

  1. Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements before entering Thailand.
  2. Health and Safety: Consult your doctor before traveling to Thailand, especially if you have health concerns.
  3. Weather Forecast: Check the weather forecast before traveling to Chiang Mai.
  4. Time Zone: Thailand is UTC+7 hours, 1 hour ahead of Bangkok.
  5. Currency Exchange: Exchange currency at a reputable exchange office or use an ATM.

Useful Websites

  1. Chiang Mai Tourism: Official website for Chiang Mai tourism information.
  2. Thailand Travel Information: Official website for Thailand travel information.
  3. TripAdvisor: Popular review website for Chiang Mai restaurants, hotels, and attractions.
  4. Google Maps: Useful website for navigating Chiang Mai city and surrounding countryside.
  5. Booking.com: Booking website for hotels, resorts, and guesthouses in Chiang Mai.

Bonus Tips

  1. Learn Basic Thai Phrases: Learn basic Thai phrases like “sawatdee” (hello) and “khop khun krap” (thank you).
  2. Respect Monks: Respect monks by not touching or taking pictures with them.
  3. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
  4. Stay Connected: Stay connected with family and friends back home using local SIM cards or Wi-Fi services.
  5. Enjoy Chiang Mai: Enjoy Chiang Mai’s vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning scenery!

Conclusion

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for any traveller. With its rich history, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning scenery, there’s something for everyone. From the bustling night bazaar to the peaceful elephant nature park, Chiang Mai has plenty of exciting activities and attractions to explore. This guide provides you with essential information on where to go, what to do, and how to get around the city. By following these tips and recommendations, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip to Chiang Mai and can enjoy an unforgettable experience in this cultural and spiritual hub. Happy travels!