Contents
Pre-Travel Preparation
There are plenty of ways to prepare for your trip to the Land of Smiles. From knowing when to visit to what vaccinations to get, we have you covered on all things you need to know before visiting Thailand and, specifically, Chiang Mai.
When to Visit Chiang Mai
If you are a fan of sunny afternoons and breezy evenings, the best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. Temperatures are cooler, humidity is lower, and exploring temples or wandering the Old City is far more comfortable.
Outside of these months, the city can get extremely hot, as does much of Thailand. That said, Chiang Mai’s mountainous setting usually brings slightly cooler evenings compared to Bangkok, which makes the heat a little more manageable.
Chiang Mai is also one of the best places in Thailand to experience Songkran from April 13 to 15. The entire city turns into a multi-day water fight between locals and travelers. If you do not mind getting completely soaked, it is an unforgettable time to visit.
Important note: March and April typically coincide with the burning season in Northern Thailand. During this time, air quality levels can rise significantly. Conditions vary each year, so always check real-time air quality reports before booking or arriving to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.
Getting to Chiang Mai from Bangkok
Several major airlines fly to Chiang Mai from Bangkok, including AirAsia, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and Nok Air. Flights are as low as $16 one way and leave daily and arrive at the Chiang Mai International Airport. There will be tuk-tuks and taxi drivers at the ready to take you to your accommodation option after picking up your luggage.
You can also take an overnight train to get there. These are normally cheaper options. The overnight train is an experience in itself. If you have the time to do so, we highly recommend one of these incredible journeys while traveling the Land of Smiles. Overnight buses are another, even cheaper, option for those on a tight budget!
Chiang Mai Transportation: A Complete Guide to Getting Around the City
Getting around Chiang Mai is easy. Most temples in the Old City are within walking distance, making it simple to explore on foot.
Bicycle rentals cost around ฿50 to ฿100 (approximately $1.55-$3.09 USD) per day. Songthaew rides within central areas usually start at ฿30 to ฿40 per person, depending on distance.
Travel tip: Grab operates widely in Chiang Mai and is often the easiest option for airport transfers. A ride from the airport to the Old City typically costs around ฿120 to ฿180 ($3.71 – $5.57 USD).
For more information, check out our complete guide to getting around Chiang Mai!
Vaccinations
The CDC recommends several vaccinations for visitors to Thailand before travel. As with any country, you should be up-to-date on all routine vaccinations. Other recommended vaccinations for Thailand, according to the CDC, are listed below.
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis B
- Japanese Encephalitis
- Malaria (bring bug spray)
- Rabies
- Yellow Fever (no risk of this in Thailand; only required if you are coming from a country where there is)
Thai Phrases You Should Know Before Visiting
Becoming fluent before your trip would be impossible. Instead, memorize a few helpful phrases to help you connect with the locals and make your trip the most memorable it can be. Here are 10 helpful, commonly used phrases. For an even more comprehensive list of Thai phrases, check out our guide to speaking Thai!
| Hello! | Sà-wat-dee! |
| Thank you! | Khòp koon! |
| How are you? | Sà-bai-dee măi? |
| Do you speak English? | Pôot paa-săa ang-grìt dâi măi? |
| Have you eaten yet? | Gin kâao lɛ́ɛo rʉ́-yang? |
| I cannot eat spicy. | Gin pet măi dâi. |
| This is very delicious. | Aroi mak! |
| How much is this? | A nee tâo rài? |
| Go straight – turn left/right – stop/go | Dtrong bpai – leo sai/qua – yoot/bpai |
| I do not understand. | Mâi kâo jai. |
Mad Monkey Insider Tip: at the end of every sentence, men add the word kráp and women add the word kâ. It is a sign of respect in Thailand.
Chiang Mai Accommodation
Accommodation in Chiang Mai is both incredibly cheap and comfortable. You can stay in an air-conditioned dormitory room for only a few bucks a night, with a great social atmosphere to boot. Whether you are looking for a party or simply a comfortable bed to nurse off a hangover in, Chiang Mai has plenty of accommodation options.
Top Party Hostels in Chiang Mai for Backpackers
Whether you are traveling solo and looking to meet like-minded backpackers or love a good night out, Chiang Mai has no shortage of party hostels.
Bodega and Sunday Backpackers both organize pub crawls, making it easy to meet fellow travelers while exploring the city’s nightlife.
For daily events, pre-drinks, and a social atmosphere, book your stay at Mad Monkey Chiang Mai and stay right in the heart of the action.
For more information about where to sleep (and party) in Chiang Mai, check out our complete list.
The Best Hostels in Chiang Mai: Where to Stay in this Northern Thai City
We understand that splurging on a hotel may not be the most cost-effective way to spend your baht while traveling across the Kingdom. With so many quality hostels available, it makes more sense to stay somewhere social, comfortable, and budget-friendly.
Chiang Mai is home to some of the best hostels in the country. Fun Wahn is ideal for travelers looking for quiet. Hug Hostel offers a cozy lounge space perfect for relaxing. For those who want a social atmosphere and a refreshing pool after a day of exploring, check availability at Mad Monkey Chiang Mai.
For even more helpful information, check out our round-up of the best hostels in Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai Attractions
There are too many things to choose from when deciding on which attractions you should visit in Chiang Mai! Check out the top things to see and do according to us, from getting a massage to swimming at the (other) Grand Canyon!
Unique Things to see and do in Chiang Mai
From getting a massage by an ex-inmate to visiting an abandoned Chinese cemetery, Chiang Mai is teeming with interesting things to see and do. Not all travelers get the chance to go off the beaten path, especially in a popular city such as Chiang Mai. With that being said, we at Mad Monkey have rounded up 14 incredibly unique things to see and do in this incredible city for you to check out!
Everything You Need to Know about the Grand Canyon in Chiang Mai
If you are needing a break from the city, there is no better place to cool off than at the Grand Canyon. No, we are not suggesting that you book a red-eye to Arizona. Instead, head to the (other) Grand Canyon, situated about a 40-minute drive from the city center. The Grand Canyon is equipped with a zip line, a green area dedicated to sunbathing, aesthetically pleasing foliage, a restaurant, and more. For more information about the Grand Canyon in Chiang Mai, including entrance fees and how to get there, check out our complete guide.
Volunteering at the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand
If you are looking for an ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai, Elephant Nature Park is one of the most respected options in Thailand.
Located about 60 kilometers from the city center, Elephant Nature Park Chiang Mai offers half-day, full-day, and overnight programs focused on rescue and rehabilitation. The sanctuary is home to more than 70 rescued elephants, along with dogs, cats, and other animals.
Founded by Saengduean “Lek” Chailert, the park emphasizes conservation, education, and sustainable local employment. Visiting supports ethical tourism while contributing directly to animal welfare.
Helpful Tip: Programs often sell out during peak season (November to February), so booking is recommended. To find out more information about this park and the cost of visiting, check out our guide to volunteering at Elephant Nature Park.
Chiang Mai Spas: Where to Get the Best Thai Massage
If there is one thing you should not miss while visiting Thailand, it is a traditional Thai massage. Chiang Mai is one of the most affordable places in the country to receive this hands-on treatment, with numerous reputable salons throughout the city.
A standard 1-hour Thai massage typically costs ฿200 to ฿350 (around $6.19 to $10.83 USD), while oil massages range from ฿300 to ฿500 (approximately $9.28 to $15.47 USD), depending on the spa and location.
Support a social enterprise at Lila Thai Massage or Perception Blind Massage, both known for skilled therapists and community impact. For deep tension relief, Orn Healing Hands is a favorite among travelers.
Before You Go: Most walk-in spas accept same-day bookings, but during peak season from November to February, it is best to reserve a few hours in advance, especially in the Old City and Nimman areas.
For more information about incredible spas and parlors, check out our complete guide on where to get the best Thai massages in the city.
Gyms in Chiang Mai: a Fitness Lover’s Guide to this Northern City
This city is crawling with gyms to get your sweat on in. Stretch it out at one of the top yoga studios, like Freedom Yoga Chiang Mai. Jump up onto boxes as tall as you are at CrossFit Chiang Mai. Learn about the national sport of Muay Thai at Chiang Mai Muay Thai Gym or Sky Kick Muay Thai Training. Get a free workout in at Muang Chiang Mai Stadium or the makeshift gym that sits just adjacent to it. The options are endless! If you want to know more about where to get your workout on in the city, check out our fitness lover’s guide to Chiang Mai.
Yoga in Chiang Mai: the Top Studios for Every Level
Are you feeling flexible? Then maybe you should check out one of the incredible yoga studios found sprinkled throughout the city. Whether you are looking for a challenging workout or a calming session to reset, yoga studios in Chiang Mai cater to all levels.
Studios around Nimman and the Old City typically offer drop-in classes ranging from ฿250 to ฿400 ($7 to $12 USD) per session, with discounted multi-class passes available. Some cafes and wellness spaces, such as Bodhi Tree Cafe, combine yoga sessions with a relaxed community atmosphere.
Classes range from Vinyasa and Hatha to Yin and restorative flows, making it easy to find a style that fits your pace.
To find out more information about where to do yoga in Chiang Mai, check out our article on the top studios!
The Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai
While some visitors may never want to leave the crumbling walls of the Old City, there are plenty of things to see and do outside of Chiang Mai’s center. A visit to Doi Inthanon National Park is an incredible way to spend a day outside of the city. It is here you will see plenty of waterfalls, stunning landscapes, and beautiful pagodas dedicated to the previous king and queen. If national parks are not your style, instead head to Huay Tung Tao Lake. This large body of water is hardly visited by foreigners and is a sight for sore eyes after spending one too many days in the city. For more ideas on what day trips to take while staying in Chiang Mai, be sure to check out our complete guide.
Temples in Chiang Mai you Should Visit
Chiang Mai is home to hundreds of temples. Many are located in Old City and are within walking distance of one another. Others, like the renowned Doi Suthep, are but a 30-minute songthaew or motorbike ride away from the city center. Some temples are equipped with incredible Lanna-inspired architecture while others are home to massage parlors. Whatever it is you fancy, the temples in Chiang Mai are sure to please. For even more information about when these temples were built to entrance fees, check out the top temples in Chiang Mai you should visit.
What to do in Chiang Mai in 48 Hours
If you only have 48 hours in the city of Chiang Mai, you’d best be filling every minute with cool things to see and do (and eat). Waste no time planning thanks to Mad Monkey, as we break down the top restaurants, nightlife, and attractions that you should squeeze into such a short time frame in our 48-hour itinerary to Chiang Mai!
Planning Note: If you want to stay central and social while exploring, check availability at Mad Monkey Chiang Mai for easy access to both daytime attractions and nightlife.
Things to do in Chiang Mai Alone: a Solo Traveler’s Guide to the City
Traveling alone in a city completely foreign to your hometown can be intimidating. Where do you eat? Which accommodation option is best for meeting people? What bars and nightlife venues are conducive to making conversation? These are all questions you are going to be asking yourself before venturing to the city of Chiang Mai alone, and luckily for you, Mad Monkey has got you covered. We have rounded up the top hostels, activities, restaurants, and more that are perfect for those of you who enjoy solo travel. For more information on how to rock this city independently, check out our solo traveler’s guide to Chiang Mai.
The Best Coworking Spaces in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai has long been a hub for digital nomads, and the city offers a wide range of coworking spaces to suit different work styles and budgets.
From cozy neighborhood setups to larger modern hubs, popular options include Punspace, Addicted To Work, and Wake Up. Most coworking spaces in Chiang Mai offer reliable Wi-Fi, air-conditioned workspaces, meeting rooms, and day passes for flexible use.
For information about pricing, hours, and more, check out our complete guide to the best coworking spaces in Chiang Mai!
Eating and Drinking in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is well-known amongst traveling foodies as one of the best places in the country to go and treat oneself three times a day or more. From bomb brunch venues to vegan-friendly restaurants, one could spend their entire trip eating and drinking their way through Chiang Mai. Below is a list of the best restaurants, where to get the tastiest of desserts, where to drink, and more. Cheers!
The Best Restaurants in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai offers an impressive range of dining options, from authentic Northern Thai cuisine to international favorites. While the city’s street food scene is excellent, its restaurants provide equally memorable meals at affordable prices.
At mid-range restaurants, main dishes typically cost between ฿120 and ฿350 ($3 to $10 USD), depending on the cuisine and location. You will find everything from traditional khao soi and Lanna specialties to Mexican, Italian, and French menus across the Old City and Nimman areas.
For more information about the best restaurants, prices of each one, and where they are located, check out our complete dining guide to Chiang Mai.
Cafes in Chiang Mai — Best Cafes for Lovers of Coffee Culture in the City
There is no better way to kick-start a day of exploration in Chiang Mai than by having a cup of coffee. Luckily for caffeine fiends in the city, there are plenty of cool cafes and coffee shops to go around. Visit Birds Nest Cafe to try their ฿60 (about $1.90) freshly brewed coffee in a French press, with Thai herbs separated from the brew. Head to Doppio Ristr8to in Nimman if you want to sip out of a skull-shaped mug. For the complete list of our favorite coffee shops in Chiang Mai and why, then check out our guide for lovers of coffee culture in the city.
Where to Eat in Chiang Mai on a Budget
Traveling on a budget? Chiang Mai makes it easy to eat well without overspending. The city is filled with affordable restaurants, local eateries, and casual cafes serving generous portions at low prices.
Street food meals typically cost around ฿40 to ฿80 ($1 to $2.50 USD), while budget-friendly restaurants usually offer dishes between ฿60 and ฿150 ($2 to $4.50 USD). Vegetarian options are widely available, and meat lovers will also find plenty of satisfying choices.
For more information about the tastiest (and cheapest) restaurants in the city, be sure to read our entire article on budget-friendly restaurants in Chiang Mai.
The 13 Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is one of the best cities in Thailand for vegetarian and vegan food. The city is packed with dedicated vegetarian restaurants, plant-based cafes, and vegan-friendly street food stalls marked with the red and yellow “gin jay” flag.
Vegetarian meals typically cost ฿60 to ฿150 ($2 to $4.50 USD), while specialty vegan restaurants in Chiang Mai usually range from ฿120 to ฿250 ($3 to $7 USD) depending on the location and menu.
From traditional Northern Thai curries made without fish sauce to plant-based burgers, smoothie bowls, and raw desserts, the variety makes Chiang Mai a top destination for meat-free travelers.
Explore our full guide to the best vegetarian restaurants in Chiang Mai for detailed recommendations and neighborhood breakdowns. Check it out!
Where to Get Brunch and Breakfast in Chiang Mai
Are you hungover? Do you love breakfast food? Then you will be pleasantly surprised by the number of early morning eateries that are perfect for restaurants to visit for breakfast or brunch. Hair the dog at Chiang Mai Breakfast World or instead enjoy the garden-inspired decor at Fern Forest Cafe while eating your favorite meal of the day. There are even venues serving up vegan brunch if you can believe it, complete with faux sausage and eggs. For more information on our favorite restaurants, check out our complete round-up of where to get brunch and breakfast in Chiang Mai.
Best Dessert Cafes in Chiang Mai You Need to Visit
Whether you are in town for a week or a month, you could frequent a new dessert cafe every day of the week in this Northern Thai city. Thais love sweets, and many of businesses found around the city took advantage of this … and we aren’t complaining! If you love fresh coconuts, then head to Coco Corner, a cafe serving up desserts featuring this savory, fresh fruit in each dish. Artistic dessert lovers will instead want to check out Woo Cafe Art Gallery, a cafe serving up delicious desserts that also doubles as a gallery! For more information about the best dessert cafes in Chiang Mai that you need to visit, check out our complete round-up of our favorite eateries.
The Best Vegan Desserts in Chiang Mai
If the dessert cafes above have got your mouth watering but you abide by a vegan diet, fret not, as there are plenty of other eateries that serve up tasty treats that are free of any added animal products! Mild Kitchen, for example, is overflowing with vegan cookies. If you would rather something chilly to beat the heat, instead opt for the coconut ice cream at Rustic & Blue. Shamelessly indulge in the desserts at Pure Vegan Heaven, including their raw chocolate avocado pot de creme. If you have built up an appetite and are wanting even more information on where to get the best vegan desserts, check out our favorite venues, here.
Chiang Mai Nightlife: the Best Bars, Clubs, Pubs, and Live Music Venues
Backpackers looking to get their drink on will be pleasantly surprised with the number of bars, clubs, pubs, and live music venues in Chiang Mai. Zoe in Yellow is certainly the most popular of them all. This district is home to almost ten different types of bars, with everything from reggae to hip-hop venues within but a few seconds walk from each other. This is the place to be in Chiang Mai until about midnight, and then most backpacker’s head to Spicy. This club stays open until about 2 a.m. and is great for those wanting to bump and grind to popular jams. If this isn’t your scene, instead check out The North Gate Jazz Co-Op for some hip-moving tunes by live jazz bands. For more information on Chiang Mai nightlife, where the best bars are located, and more, check out our complete nightlife guide.
More Information About Chiang Mai
Did you love this comprehensive article? Do you want even more information about this incredible, Northern Thai city? Then be sure to check out these other articles that we have rounded up telling you where to go, what to eat, where to workout, and more. Happy traveling!
- The Best Backpacker Hostels in Chiang Mai, Thailand by Iona Proebst for The Culture Trip
- The Ultimate Travel Guide To Chiang Mai for Breathing Travel
- The First-Timer’s Travel Guide to Chiang Mai, Thailand for Will Fly For Food
- A Weekend Guide to Chiang Mai for The City Sidewalks
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