Chiang Mai (pronounced “Chiang Mai”) is the cultural and historical heart of northern Thailand. Ancient temples, picturesque markets, fragrant street food and the mountains that surround the city make Chiang Mai the ideal destination for those who want to combine adventure, culture and relaxation. And this is the mix that I, as I get older, seek out more and more.
It is also the largest city in northern Thailand and at the same time one of the most magical places a traveler can visit. It combines ancient temples, rich culture, delicious food and nature at your fingertips. If you are planning a trip to Thailand, Chiang Mai should definitely be on your list.
I am convinced that you will be surprised like me and that the city will become an experience that will draw you in and never let go. Whether you come here for the history, the food, or the nature, you will take away memories that will linger in your mind for a long time after the beautiful temples.
WHY VISIT CHIANG MAI?
Unlike bustling Bangkok, Chiang Mai has a relaxed atmosphere and a historic center that can be explored on foot. And that’s a big plus for me. The city is surrounded by mountains and jungle, so in addition to the sights, it also offers countless nature trips.
WHAT TO SEE IN CHIANG MAI?
OLD CITY AND ITS WALLS
If you look back in time, you will find that the city was founded in 1296 as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. For centuries, it served as the cultural and spiritual center of northern Thailand. Because it was isolated in the mountains, it has preserved many elements, from traditional crafts to architecture. If you like Thai temples, you will be in heaven. You will find over 300 temples here.
So you shouldn’t miss a visit to the Old City in Chiang Mai. It has the shape of an almost perfect square. You can actually recognize it easily because it was originally surrounded by partially preserved defensive walls and a moat. Some parts are still visible today. You will find dozens of temples, narrow streets, cafes and markets here.
You can walk around the walls quite easily. I think it’s a nice walk. Just keep in mind that if you walk in the afternoon, you will be exposed to the sun. I know what I’m talking about. 🙂 I arrived in Chiang Mai at noon by bus from Chiang Rai and had to walk to the center. But there are a lot of cafes and restaurants around, so you have somewhere to hide. Behind the walls is a water canal that served as a defensive moat against Burmese raids. The canal is no longer used for military purposes, but it is an important part of the city. You will find small bridges, palm trees and fountains.
THA PHAE GATE
Today, the walls have been largely restored, and their gates, such as Tha Phae Gate, are popular meeting places and photo opportunities. Well, tourists usually take photos with pigeons here. It is also an important landmark. People gather here if they buy an organized tour. On Sunday evenings, there are food and clothing markets.
WHICH TEMPLES TO VISIT IN THE CITY?
WAT PHRA SINGH
Wat Phra Singh is one of the most famous temples in Chiang Mai. Built in the 14th century, the temple holds historical significance for Thais. It is home to the revered Phra Singh Buddha image, a spiritual symbol in northern Thailand.
The temple’s design features intricate wood carvings, vibrant murals, and detailed architecture. You can stroll through the tranquil inner courtyard and admire the ornate structures, each telling its own story.
VIHARN LAI KHAM
Viharn Lai Kham is the most famous building of Wat Phra Singh. The murals are quite damaged but interesting. If you stand in front of the Buddha image, the paintings on the left tell the story of Sangthong and the paintings on the right tell the story of Suwanna Hong. They are stories about the life and customs of the people of Chiang Mai in the past.
STATUE PHRA BUDDHA SIHING
The Phra Buddha (Phuttha) Sihing statue is the second most important Buddha statue in Thailand. The most important is the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. You can read about it in my article:
Every year during the Songkran festival, the statue is taken out of the temple. It is then placed on a chariot and paraded through the streets of Chiang Mai. Participants worship the statue by sprinkling water on it.
CHEDI THAN CHANG LOM
The most striking structure of Wat Phra Singh is its huge gilded stupa with protruding elephants on all sides. To the south, north and west are three smaller gilded stupas (chedis), two of which have niches with images of the Buddha.
The chedi at this site dates back to 1344 and probably looked very different from the one today. It is even likely that the chedi was gilded after 1981.
FAMOUS LIBRARY
The temple has the most famous library of all the temples in Chiang Mai. It is a very significant and beautiful small raised building located on your right as you enter the temple complex. Its history dates back to the reign of King Muang Kaew, the 11th king of the Mangrai dynasty.
It is important to note that most Buddhist temples in Thailand are still alive. They are not just monuments. Their appearance is changing. People are building new buildings, renovating old buildings, and demolishing others. They are planting trees or adding other things to the temple. Many temples in Chiang Mai and northern Thailand were once in some kind of dilapidated state. It seems that people have never abandoned this particular temple because it is an important temple for them. One reason is that it is located in a central location. So they are constantly improving the temple and recently they have planted a large number of palm trees near the temple.
MY TIP:
For the best experience, I recommend visiting the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and soft lighting, which is perfect for photography. If you are in Chiang Mai during the Songkran festival, check the temple schedule for special ceremonies and cultural events that offer a unique insight into Thai traditions.
WAT CHIANG MAN
THE OLDEST TEMPLE IN CHIANG MAI
Wat Chiang Man is one of the most popular temples in the Old City and was founded in 1926. I like this temple because of its historical significance and the chedi with the protruding elephants.
CHEDI ČANG LOM
The name of the chedi is Čadí Čang Lom. The word “Čang” means elephant and “Lom” means around: the chedi is surrounded by elephants. And fifteen elephants protrude from the chedi.
WHAT IS VIHARN?
In Thai architecture, this refers to a shrine or chapel that serves as a place for worshipping Buddha statues and other religious images. It is also a place for preaching and gathering. The term comes from the Sanskrit word Vihara and originally referred to a monastery with various rooms and accommodation for monks and nuns.
VIHARNAS AND BUDDHA STATUES
Wat Chiang Man has two viharns with Buddha statues that are historically very significant. The large and beautiful viharn (Viharn Luang) houses a Buddha called Phra Prathaan. It also houses the oldest Buddha statue in Chiang Mai: a standing Buddha with an alms bowl. The statue dates back to 1465.
The advantage of this temple is that, because it is a little more remote from other monuments, it is quieter here. Opening hours are from 8:00 to 17:00, but you will meet people here as early as 5 in the morning. There is no entrance fee.
MORNING MARKETS
It would be a sin not to visit a market in Chiang Mai. You will find two types of markets in the city, morning (open during the day) and evening. The evening ones are more famous here, but the morning ones also have something to offer. They sell fresh ingredients such as vegetables, fruit, meat, rice, eggs and of course lots of spices. I personally liked the packages for preparing Thai dishes. If you take part in a cooking school, you will visit such a market.
NIGHT MARKETS
Most people, especially tourists, visit the evening markets, where you can of course buy souvenirs nice and cheap, but also eat very well. Be sure not to miss the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and the Sunday Walking Street Market.
Which markets are definitely not to be missed, and which are among the most popular:
- Night Bazaar – the most famous market in Chiang Mai. It is alive every day. You can find good food here or get a massage. There is also live music.
- Ploen Ruedee Night Market – right next to the night bazaar. It is actually a food zone.
- Chang Phuak Gate Night Market – if you are looking for a place to try good food, you definitely cannot miss this place.
- Wua Lai Walking Street – located along the street and you can buy souvenirs or get a massage here.
- Warorot Market – a large market with food and mainly various household and kitchen supplies.
giant OC with a giant market Ruamchok – located a little further from the center. You will basically only meet locals or groups from cooking schools here.
WALKING STREET MARKET
Every Sunday from 4pm to midnight, Chiang Mai hosts one of its biggest weekly events. The Walking Street Market starts at Thapae Gate and runs along Ratchadamnoen Road.
The street is completely closed to traffic. It is a gathering place for locals, with many people browsing, socializing, bargaining and enjoying themselves. It is a true showcase of Northern Thai craftsmanship. Many vendors have personally made their wares, and many of the handmade items are testament to the skill and ingenuity of the local people.
The goods on offer are made from an incredible range of materials, including: wood, metal, ceramics, fabrics, paper, coconuts and many more. The products are truly authentic and original. When shopping, don’t forget to haggle. Any item that isn’t marked with a fixed price is open to haggling and is part of the fun. The vendors, many of whom have other jobs and are just trading at the market, love to joke around and if you smile and barter in a good mood, you’ll have a great experience. And maybe a good price too. 🙂
You’ll also find street performers, traditional musicians, Thai dancers, live sculptures, puppet shows and rock bands. All of this adds to the festive nature of the market and makes it an event not to be missed. So when you’re planning your visit to Chiang Mai, make sure you’re here on a Sunday. 🙂
BEST ACTIVITIES AROUND CHIANG MAI
COOKING COURSE
There is no doubt that the city is a culinary area. The choice is huge and I had one recommended to me. You have a choice: either a full day or a half day. I recommend taking the course in the morning, when you will also visit the local market, where you will get acquainted with the ingredients and then move to the farm where the actual cooking takes place. It is a mass event, so choose wisely.
A lot of schools have everything pre-cut, so you basically just mix it up and that’s pretty boring. They usually grow herbs and other crops on the farm. The schools look a lot alike. Everyone has their own gas stove and space to prepare food. As for the food, you choose from two to four dishes in each course. This can consist of a starter, soup, main course and dessert.
ZABB ELee
Zabb E Lee Thai Cooking School is a Thai word from northeastern Thailand that means “Very Delicious.” The school is located on an organic farm in the Sarapi area, about 14 km from the old city of Chiang Mai. It is surrounded by rice fields, a lake, and organic vegetables. It is a really nice place that has a great relaxing and refreshing atmosphere.
They cook in an open-air kitchen in a bamboo hut in the local style. Here you will understand that Thais are very proud of their family, cuisine and culture. For me it was a great experience here because the environment was very nice.
I personally liked that we listened to mixed music the whole time, which was supposed to put us in a great mood and encourage us to cook. We even danced while doing it. 🙂
I took the morning course, which costs 1,200 baht/person
Time: 09:00 – 14:00 (daily)
Pickup time: 08:20 – 08:50
What’s cooking: Everyone can create their own menu. You can choose 4 dishes + 1 curry paste + sticky rice with mango.
Website: here
MASSAGE COURSE
SABAI DE KA MASSAGE SCHOOL
Sabai De Ka in Thai means “I am fine” or “I feel good”. After a massage or a massage course at Sabai De Ka, you will feel exactly that.
Here you will learn and practice massage techniques. Kloy Pothamoon founded the school in 2004. She offers massage and spa services at her school. Massage lessons and courses were added later due to high customer demand.
Types of massages you can learn:
- Traditional Thai massage
- Head, face, back, neck and shoulder massage
- Foot massage and reflexology
- Herbal hot compress massage, etc.
I learned how to massage your head. It is one of the techniques that can help you get rid of stress and headaches. It helps reduce stress, relaxes and calms the mind, improves concentration and blood circulation in different parts of the head, helps you fall asleep quickly, and strengthens the hair roots.
Websites where you can order: here
ARTISTIC AND HIPSTER QUARTERS
If you’re a cafe lover, I recommend visiting the Nimmanhaemin district. You’ll find trendy cafes, galleries, boutiques, and street art here. It’s the perfect place for those who want to see the contemporary face of Chiang Mai.
CAFES IN CHIANG MAI
Ristr8to Coffee
This cafe has been inspired by coffee culture around the world, especially in Melbourne, Australia, London, San Francisco and Tokyo. They have combined all these experiences to become their standard. They have won many awards from barista competitions in Thailand and Australia, in short, at an international level.
The thing they really pride themselves on here is the latte art.
Where: Ristr8to Cafe is located at 15/3 Nimmanhemin Road, Sutep, Muang, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 50200. It is located at the end of Huay-Kaew Road – opposite Soi 2 and Kasem Shop.
Website: here
AKHA AMA
Akha Ama Café was founded in 2010 as a social enterprise to support coffee farmers in Thailand. It is made up of farmers who roast their own coffee and also run cafes.
For example, they have coffee from the village of Saw-Eh, which I tested. It is located at an altitude of 1150-1250 meters, where there is an ideal temperature and humidity for growing coffee. There are many varieties of coffee in this area, and I found out that some old varieties have been grown there for over 30 years. The community protects the coffee on their land as part of a forest reserve.
Where: 9/1 Soi 3 Hussadhisewee Rd, Mata Apartment Chang Phueak, Chiang Mai 50300
Web: here
HOW TO GET TO CHIANG MAI
BY PLANE
There are direct flights to Chiang Mai from Bangkok and other Asian cities. The fastest way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is by plane with Thai Lion Air, Bangkok Airways, Vietjet, Air Asia, Nok Air or Thai Smile. Prices range from around 500 – 1000 CZK per flight. If you are traveling from other countries, you will have to change in Bangkok.
BY AIRPORT
It is only 4 km from the airport to the city center, but I recommend taking a Grab. Some hotels will give you a ride for the same price. Find out in advance so you don’t overpay.
BY TRAIN
The train journey from Bangkok takes about 11 hours, but it is a great experience if you have enough time. Especially on a night train with a sleeping car.
BY BUS
I arrived in Chiang Mai by bus from Chiang Rai and it is basically the cheapest way. However, if you are coming from Bangkok, it can be a painful journey and the only advantage is that you can get a ticket easily, as buses are less sold out than trains, for example.
TRANSPORTATION IN THE CITY
To get around the city, use Grab or songthaew (red shared taxi). I think it is the fastest way. Of course, if you don’t want to walk.
WHEN TO GO TO CHIANG MAI
The best time is November to February, when the weather is dry and pleasantly cool. In March and April, it can get significantly warmer and the “smog season” period is not ideal due to the burning of the fields. Since Chiang Mai is located further north, it is a bit colder here compared to Bangkok, for example. Basically, you can experience 3 main seasons here, i.e. cold, hot and rainy season.
COLD SEASON
Even though this is Thailand, in the cold season it is better to pack a sweatshirt or sweater. This is the biggest tourist season, so I recommend planning and booking everything in advance. There is Christmas, New Year, flower and lantern festival. From November to February, temperatures are below 30 °C and at the turn of December and January it is the coldest.
HOT SEASON
The hot season takes place from March to May, when temperatures climb above 30 °C. It is basically the worst season when it is really hot here. However, it has one positive aspect, because in mid-April you can experience Songkran. The Thai New Year is celebrated when everyone splashes water on each other.
RAINY SEASON
The rainy season is from June to October. They say that the worst is at the turn of August and September. I was here during this period and we mostly had showers at night and it was nice during the day. This period also has its positive aspects, because there are not so many tourists here. It is not the season, so accommodation is much cheaper.
TIPS FOR ACCOMMODATION
IN CHIANG MAI
My tips for where to stay:
- Old Town – ideal for a first visit, close to temples and markets
- Nimmanhaemin – a trendy area with cafes and boutiques
- Riverside – a quieter area by the Ping River
I recommend choosing a hotel with air conditioning and a swimming pool. Choose a place in the center, within 1 km of the city walls. You can easily walk to the main sights. If you go on a trip, they will pick you up directly at the hotel.
And how many days to spend in Chiang Mai? If you really want to see the city, I recommend more days. You can then leisurely walk around the sights and visit one of the markets. The city is definitely worth a visit, and I highly recommend it. You will be enchanted, as I was.
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