Chiang Mai Travel guide
Head north to Chiang Mai to dig a little deeper into Thailand's rich culture. This city is quite unlike anywhere else in Thailand - it's buried in jungle-clad hills that are home to remote tribes, and full of golden temples, fun festivals and heaps of adventure activities such as zip-lining, elephant encounters and mountain biking. And then there's the food.
Chiang Mai Highlights
Doi Suthep
This mountain-top Buddhist monastery was built in 1383, and is still a popular place to spot Buddhist monks going about their business. Jump in a cheap songthaew (pickup van) or hire a scooter to make it to the top of the jungle-clad hill it sits atop of, and marvel at the views.
Wat Chedi Luang
Another sensational Buddhist monument located within Chiang Mai's ancient city walls, Wat Chedi Luang is free to enter, and dazzling inside.The central location of this temple makes it an unmissable site for every visitor.
Hilltribes around Chiang Mai.
The hills around Chiang Mai are home to remote Karen tribes and an incredible array of wildlife. Jump onto one of our hilltribe treks to witness this incredible part of Asia for yourself. You'll be rewarded with a real insight into local village life, and more than a few Instagram snaps of the mind blowing scenery: think, rice terraces, rolling hills and huge swathes of jungle!
Adrenaline rushes
From flying down the sides of Chiang Mai's mountains atop a mountain bike, to ziplining high above the dense jungle canopy, there are ample adventure activities to suit everyone in Chiang Mai. You can raft, trek, motorbike and kayak most days of the year here, but for those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on dry, solid ground, there are some incredible cooking classes to get stuck into in the city : a must for all!
Chiang Mai's Night Markets
"Cheap-cheap, same same!" Chiang Mai's popular Night Bazaar is an ideal destination for gifts, jewellery, vintage clothing and fake designer gear. You'll also find amazing street food and cheap bars here; keep your eyes and nostrils open for Chiang Mai's delicious speciality dish, Khao Soi: a steaming bowl of creamy curry soup loaded with noodles, chilli and lemongrass.
Yi Peng Lantern Festival
If you're heading to Chiang Mai in November, you're in luck. For one night a year during Yi Peng celebrations, Northern Thailand's sky is illuminated by thousands of wish lanterns as they are released by locals (pictured at the top of this guide). On either side of this night, there are lanterns that are released to float down the moats surrounding Chiang Mai's old town. Pure magic! |
