Are you wondering if Chiang Mai is worth visiting? If you are, then you’re in the right place! Have you started researching for your trip? If so, you’ve probably come across Chiang Mai. It’s a mellow city in northern Thailand that people say should be on every Thai itinerary.
To be honest, it’s one of my favourite locations in Thailand. I have visited twice and spent many weeks strolling through its ancient streets. It’s full of temples, a unique heritage, and nature. You can guess I think Chiang Mai is worth visiting, but find out why below!
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The Top Reasons Why Chiang Mai is Worth Visiting
One of its main draws is the scenery. It’s located in the mountainous north and attracts thousands of tourists every year, including its fair share of digital nomads.
It’s one of the top spots for those backpacking the country with a boho-casual vibe and friendly locals.
It’s known as the City of Temples because, well, you’ve guessed it, it’s full of temples uniquely influenced by the ancient Lanna Kingdom, which ruled from the 13th to the 18th century.
So, if you’re a hippie at heart who loves wandering around temples and historic sites and finding breathtaking vistas, Chiang Mai is worth visiting.
If you’re not, you might want to reconsider visiting Chiang Mai!
My Time In Chiang Mai
For me, Chiang Mai was a beautiful place to visit, which we very much enjoyed. We made a short visit of 5 days, choosing to catch an overnight bus from Kanchanaburi. I had previously been to Chiang Mai back in 2010, and from memory, I knew it was somewhere Jack was going to love.
So, after we’d absorbed all the information at Kanchanaburi’s Death Railway and Hellfire Pass, we jumped onto the bus and headed to Chiang Mai. I just want to note here that journey was terribly uncomfortable!
✔️ Chiang Mai didn’t disappoint. It was as I remembered but better, since we visited just after the pandemic it was still relatively quiet, a fact we relished in.
Most of the activities and tours we had to ourselves and although this won’t likely be your experience, I’m sure you’ll still have a great time. That said, the city was missing its normal nightly buzz, but it was still enjoyable. In fact, it was in Chiang Mai that Jack and I got most drunk on our whole year of travels!
Why Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting?
The wonderful thing about Chiang Mai is that it has a story. It has a culture derived from the Lanna Kingdom with unique traditions. Within the old walled city, there are numerous temples to discover, some are small and humble while others are grand and covered in gold.
Aside from the historical side of Chiang Mai, the surrounding countryside is stunning and a must-visit with opportunities to visit hot springs, waterfalls and breathtaking panoramic views.
Chiang Mai is worth visiting just to see the elephants. There are many sanctuaries within easy reach of the city. But please ensure you visit an ethical elephant sanctuary – no elephant riding.
❤️ Who will love Chiang Mai? Well, if you’re somebody who loves a laidback vibe with a strong hit of culture, Chiang Mai is for you. It’s also a favourite amongst nature lovers as there are plenty of national parks, nature activities and hiking routes to enjoy.
What Kind Of Holiday Are You After?
Nevertheless, just because Jack and I loved Chiang Mai that doesn’t mean it’s worth visiting for everyone. While we were there we did meet a couple who were not enjoying their time there as much as they thought they would.
They didn’t hate it, but ultimately they said they should have booked a shorter trip and split their time better between the north and south of Thailand.
North and South Thailand are very different places. Therefore, to make sure you have the best holiday it’s crucial you know what to expect from Chaing Mai!
Here are some questions you might want to ask yourself before booking a holiday to Chiang Mai:
- Are you happy doing activities/tours?
- Are you travelling during March?
- Do you enjoy nature, wildlife and history?
- Are you looking for a beach vacay?
- Are you expecting a city with a lively/night atmosphere?
- How long is your holiday?
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IS CHIANG MAI WORTH VISITING
The Best Things To Do In Chiang Mai (PROS)
Firstly, let me tell you all the reasons Chiang Mai is worth visiting and the best things to do there.
1. Cooking Class
We took the obligatory cooking class when we visited Chiang Mai and as dubious as we were about attending such a highly touristic activity, we actually really enjoyed ourselves. I would recommend: Smile Organic Food, Cooking Class
Our day started by visiting the market and purchasing a few ingredients, although many were being grown in the garden attached to the cooking school. Afterwards, we were taken around said garden and introduced to Thai herbs, spices and vegetables.
The class itself was very interesting. We choose a selection of dishes and showed how to make them, it’s incredible how quickly these dishes came together. The Thai are no-nonsense types of cooks!
One element I enjoyed was making our own pastes for the curries by grinding the ingredients to a pulp. A few adventurous souls opted for the hot chilli base…
Taking a cooking class in Chiang Mai is a great way to learn about Thai cuisine, meet people and be guided around a local market (without having to pay for a separate tour!)
2. Elephant Sanctuary
On another day, we visited the Maerim Elephant Sanctuary. This experience as a whole was incredible and something which we both really enjoyed. Chiang Mai is a fantastic place to visit elephants and something which shouldn’t be missed.
Elephant sanctuaries are quickly replacing the traditional elephant riding camps as tourists and local communities better understand the horrific conditions the animals are kept under. That said, there is still some debate as to how ethical certain sanctuaries are.
Something you will need to consider when making a booking is whether the hands-on or hands-off approach sits better within your moral grounds. You can read more about our experience and views in our post about visiting Maerim Elephant Sanctuary.
3. Overnight Trip To Pai
As I said, Chiang Mai is a city to explore and this includes the nearby village of Pai. Many people prefer Pai over Chiang Mai as it’s much more mellow and so laidback it might fall off the cliff!
However, we only planned for an overnight visit which was nevertheless great fun. A popular activity is to motorbike route 1095 from Chiang Mai to Pai. This is a trip of a lifetime and something we really recommend doing if you have at least one week in Chiang Mai.
It’s a beautiful and thrilling adventure which will take you high over the mountains as you wind around hairpin turns. The ride is a full day with chances to stop by hot springs and waterfalls before reaching Pai in time for sunset.
4. Day Trip To Chiang Rai
Another popular tour is a visit to Chiang Rai. It’s a full day (with a long transit time) but worth it if only to see the famous white temple. We’re not a fan of these sorts of excursions preferring to go at it alone but we simply did not have the time, so off we went on a group tour.
As it turned out, we enjoyed the temple and the day as a whole. The white temple – Wat Rong Khun – was really unexpected.
Inside it had murals depicting western superheroes alongside images of nuclear warfare while outside there are hundreds of outreaching hands coming up from the ground!
I believe there are quite a few underlying messages of good and evil, but I’ll leave it up to you to make up your own minds…
5. City Temples & The Lanna Museum
You’ll need a whole day to explore the city and maybe another for the best museum. The best way is to walk around although you can arrange for a tuk-tuk to take you to the sites. The city has over 500 temples and shrines which date back to the 12th Century.
So choosing where to go can be overwhelming, these were our favourite temples:
Wat Lok Moli
Wat Lok Moli is a beautiful and historic Buddhist temple known for its impressive architecture and intricate details, including the stunning red and gold decorations that adorn its white exterior.
One of the most unique features of Wat Lok Moli is its large, ancient chedi (stupa) that houses the ashes of several kings! It’s just outside the walled city but still easy to reach and I would certainly suggest adding it to your temple itinerary.
Wat Phantao
Located in the heart of Chiang Mai, the temple is famous for its distinctive Lanna-style architecture, which features ornate wooden carvings and intricate details.
Another interesting element of Wat Phantao is that it was once a royal palace before being converted into a temple. As a result, you’ll see remnants of the palace’s former glory, such as the impressive teak wood throne and other decorative elements.
Wat Chedi Luang
One of the most iconic and impressive temples, it dates back to the 14th century and is known for its massive chedi, which was once one of the tallest structures in ancient Chiang Mai before an earthquake destroyed much of the chedi!
As you walk around you’ll notice Sinhalese-style stone elephants and mythical creatures guarding the entrances.
Wat Phra Singh
Another stunning temple located in the heart of Chiang Mai dates back to the 14th century and is home to some of the most beautiful and intricate Lanna-style architecture in the region.
The temple’s intricate details and beautiful decorations are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Lanna artisans who built it. It has a peaceful and serene atmosphere that we absolutely loved and found it to be a popular spot for meditation.
Three Kings Monument
Although not a temple the Three Kings Monument is a popular tourist attraction located in the heart of Chiang Mai. The monument features life-size bronze statues of the three kings who were instrumental in the founding and development of the city of Chiang Mai.
The Three Kings Monument is also a great spot to learn more about the history and culture of Chiang Mai. There are informative plaques that detail the accomplishments and legacies of the three kings, to help gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history and heritage of the city.
The Lanna Museum
Opposite the Three King Monument, you’ll find the Lanna Folklife Museum. It’s dedicated to Northern Thai culture and contains Buddhist art, ceremonial utensils, handicrafts, sculptures, ceramics and paintings of the Lanna culture.
6. Doi Suthep Temple
Doi Suthep Temple is a stunning and iconic temple located on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. It’s on top of a mountain called Doi Suthep, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
To reach the temple, you need to climb a long staircase that leads up to the entrance. Once inside, admire the temple’s stunning architecture, which features intricate carvings, colourful murals, and exquisite decorations.
7. Night Markets
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is one of the most popular and vibrant markets in Thailand. Located in the heart of the city, the bazaar comes alive every evening with a colourful array of vendors, shops, and street performers.
The stalls sell handmade crafts and textiles to electronics and souvenirs. The market is also a great place to try some of the local street food, with an endless selection of delicious snacks and dishes on offer!
Wua Lai Walking Street
Wua Lai Walking Street is another popular market in Chiang Mai that is famous for its vibrant street scene and cultural atmosphere. The market is located in the Wua Lai neighbourhood, just south of the old city, and is known for its unique handicrafts and local food.
The market is held every Saturday evening, and the main street is closed off to traffic to make way for the stalls and vendors. Foodies will love the market, with a wide range of local delicacies and street food on offer, such as Khao Soi, a popular northern Thai curry noodle dish.
Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
Warorot Market, also known as Kad Luang, is a bustling indoor and outdoor market located in the heart of Chiang Mai. It is one of the oldest and most popular markets in the city, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
The market is spread over several floors, with a wide range of products. One of the highlights of the market is the flower market, where you can find a beautiful display of fresh flowers and ornamental plants!
Ton Lam Yai Market
Ton Lam Yai Market, also known as Ton Lamyai Market, is a popular fresh market located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It’s known for its extensive selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local produce, as well as its lively atmosphere.
The market is situated in the heart of Chiang Mai, near the Ping River, and is open every day from early morning until late afternoon. You’ll be able to find a wide range of local fruits and vegetables, such as durian, mangoes, lychees, and dragon fruit, as well as herbs, spices, and other cooking ingredients.
8. Zip-Line Jungle Tours
Okay, so we didn’t do this but someone from our cooking class was telling us they were going the next day. And so, I did a little digging and actually, it sounds like fun! I’ve found this one on Get Your Guide, which states:
“Once arriving at the 1000-year-old forest…Spend over 2 hours zipping through the jungle…Experience the thrill of riding the world’s longest zip line roller coaster…and the rush of flying through treetops on a zip line and seeing breathtaking views of the jungle… Ride Thailand’s longest zip line reaching lengths of 1000 meters…”
I mean, if this isn’t a great thing to do in Chiang Mai who knows what is?
9. Karen Hill Tribes
The Karen Hill Tribes are a group of indigenous people who inhabit the mountainous regions of Thailand and neighbouring countries. They are known for their unique customs, traditions, and clothing, which are distinct from those of other ethnic groups in the region.
They are famous for their long-necked women, who wear brass rings around their necks from a young age as a symbol of beauty and status. Although we didn’t get to visit the tribes it would be a great experience to add to your Chiang Mai itinerary.
You’ll be able to learn more about the Karen Hill Tribes by visiting their villages and observing their way of life. Many of the villages are located in remote and picturesque locations, making them great spots for hiking and exploring.
10. Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful natural wonder located in the mountainous region of Chiang Mai. The park is named after Doi Inthanon, which is the highest mountain in Thailand and stands over 2,500 meters tall.
The park is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and camping. The park’s most popular attraction is the Twin Pagodas, which were built to honour the king and queen of Thailand.
Another popular attraction in the park is the Mae Klang Waterfall, one of Thailand’s tallest waterfalls and is known for its picturesque beauty. What’s really lovely about this is that you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the nearby pools and take in the stunning natural surroundings, great for those hot days!
11. Multi-Day Trip: Mae Hong Loop
Although we didn’t do the whole loop – we only went to Pai – it’s something we wish we had. It’s a scenic route that takes you through the picturesque mountains of northern Thailand.
The loop begins and ends in Chiang Mai and covers a distance of about 600 kilometres, passing through the provinces of Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling waterfalls. The route is also dotted with numerous charming villages and towns, each with its own unique culture and attractions.
IS CHIANG MAI WORTH VISITING
The Cons Of Visiting Chiang Mai
I want to dig a little deeper into the questions I asked above because how you answered them can determine if Chiang Mai is right for you. As I said, there are some negatives to visiting Chiang Mai, so let’s find out if it’s worthwhile or not.
12. Chiang Mai Can Get Boring
If you prefer to stay in one location, Chiang Mai might not be for you. As great as the city is you will only really need 2 full days to explore it. This includes visiting the temples, museums and street markets.
The rest of your time in Chiang Mai will be moving around on daily excursions or possibly multi-day trips. Popular activities include cooking classes, visiting elephant sanctuaries, and a day trip to Chiang Rai and the national parks.
If you’re not happy to fill your days with activities, Chiang Mai can quickly become boring!
13. Chiang Mai Has A Burning Season
During the month of March, the farmers in northern Thailand begin burning their rice fields in preparation for the new growing season. The smoke pollutes the air and can cause some issues for tourists taking in the views.
That said, we did visit Chiang Mai in late march and although the scenery was not crystal clear we didn’t notice any other effects. We still enjoyed our visit and made the most of it by taking an overnight trip to the nearby village of Pai.
14. Chiang Mai Is For Nature-Lovers & History Buffs
Although not a negative in our eyes – we love geeking out while travelling – if you don’t enjoy history or nature then it’s unlikely you’ll enjoy Chiang Mai. There are activities which you could still enjoy however I think it’s likely you would find Chiang Mai boring after a few days.
15. Chiang Mai Doesn’t Have A Beach
It’s a city in the heart of the country and therefore, no beaches are even close! This can be a problem for beach lovers. However, if this is the case then ensure you book a hotel with a swimming pool, it will at least help soothe the reality as much as possible.
You’ll still be able to find waterfalls and take a refreshing dip in the plunge pools and there is also the Huay Tung Tao Reservoir. It’s a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, located about 15 kilometres northwest of the Old City; there you can enjoy activities like swimming, paddle boarding, and relaxing in lakeside bamboo huts.
16. Chiang Mai Is Not A Bustling City
I love a lively city just as much as I love a laid-back town. This is probably why I enjoy both Chiang Mai and Bangkok with equal appreciation. However, if you’re expecting a hip and happening place, Chiang Mai is not it.
Don’t get me wrong, Chiang Mai does have a night scene and it can get lively but it pails in comparison to the capital the likes of Phuket’s Patong and the full moon party…
The vibe in Chiang Mai is a more modest affair, there are clubs and bars and markets but things rarely get out of hand. So, if you’re looking for somewhere to throw your arms up and dance through the night, Chiang Mai isn’t worth visiting.
17. Chiang Mai Is In The Middle Of Nowhere
Although this is a blessing for many it can be a curse for others. Unless you’re flying, it’s not easy to reach Chiang Mai! With travel times of up to 11+ hours, reaching Chiang Mai can be a long and tiresome journey.
👉 Alternatives
Looking for somewhere else to visit in Thailand? We also loved these spots:
18. Ayutthaya
If you only have a couple of weeks in Thailand, there are other historical places closer to Bangkok which offer a similar experience. One place we loved was Ayutthaya, which was once the capital of the Siam Kingdom and is overflowing with ancient temples.
19. Kanchanaburi
Another place is Kanchanaburi which offers an insight into the infamous Death Railway. The great thing about both these locations is that they are also close to national parks, such as Erawan National Park.
20. Phuket
I mean, you could completely change things up and head over to Phuket. It’s not as culturally rich as Chiang Mai but it does have a lovely blend of Thai, Malay, and Peranakan influences and with a handful of temples such as Wat Chalong, the Big Buddha and Jui Tui Shrine, you get a nice culture hit!
All these locations offer peaceful retreats closer to Bangkok (which is where I’m assuming you’re flying into). Although none have that bohemian vibe Chiang Mai is so famous for, they do offer a great alternative if you’re short on time.
Where To Stay In Chiang Mai?
Since Chiang Mai has been a tourist hot-spot for years attracting all types of travellers it’s now a place full of accommodations to suit all budgets. You’ll be able to find budget hostels and apartments, luxury hotels and resorts.
One thing I would keep in mind is that it’s a good idea to choose somewhere with a pool if your budget permits. We stayed in a wonderful hostel, which I’ll recommend below but it didn’t have a pool. It would have been nice on those hot days to have a pool!
📍Budget: Hostel One Art and Gallery
Dorms start from £11
It sounds like this is a fantastic hostel in Chiang Mai! Guests agree that Hostel One Art and Gallery is beautiful, clean, and comfortable, with great amenities. There are plenty of quiet spaces to work or relax, and the private rooms are huge and comfortable.
📍Budget: POR Thapae Gate
Double rooms from £42
By the sounds of the reviews, it seems like POR is another great place to stay with great amenities and friendly, helpful staff. Guests are loving the free breakfast and fresh fruit bar, as well as the pool and clean rooms. POR Thapae Gate location is also excellent, with easy access to the night market.
📍 Mid-Range: Phra Singh Village
Double rooms from £72
Based on the reviews, it sounds like Phra Singh Village is a great location, with friendly and helpful staff, and delicious food which would make a great stay. Guests loved the pool and facilities, as well as the spacious and clean rooms.
📍Top-End: Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts
Double rooms from £179 (I’ve seen rates as low as £69)
Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Art has an incredible amount of positive reviews and it looks beautiful. It sounds like the hotel staff are helpful and kind making for an overall great stay. The rooms seem clean and comfortable, with unique artwork throughout the property. The location is excellent, within walking distance of shops, temples, and museums, yet still tranquil and remote feeling.
Is 3 nights in Chiang Mai enough?
In my honest opinion, 3 nights in Chiang Mai is not enough. You will need at least two days to explore the attractions and sites within the walled city. Chiang Mai offers a plethora of activities in the surrounding area including a visit to elephant sanctuaries, cooking classes and day trips to the nearby national parks. Therefore, 3 days do not give you enough time to visit these other attractions outside the city. Since Chaing Mai is quite isolated visiting for three days is also not economical.
What Is So Special About Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai is a special place because of its ability to mix the past and present into a much-loved modern-day metropolis. The beloved hippie vibes are perfect for those of you seeking a slower pace away from the crowds of Thailand’s capital.
From ancient temples, and traditional street markets to quirky cat cafes and stunning scenery, I think Chiang Mai is a place worth visiting in northern Thailand.
And, even though Chiang Mai isn’t a hidden gem lost in the mountains it’s still got enough rural entertainment to please the toughest of nature lovers. It’s a place of casual conversion, ice-cold lattes and gentle serenity which we loved.
It’s also a great place to base yourself if you’re a digital nomad or remote worker. The city is well equipped for hosting such individuals and is known worldwide as one of the best locations for digital nomads, topping the list for years.
Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting
How Many Days Should You Spend In Chiang Mai?
If you’re on a backpacking trip, I’ve previously noted 5 days is a good amount of days to spend in Chiang Mai. This will allow a few days to explore the city and another few days to explore outside of the city. This doesn’t include travel time!
✔️ It took us 12 hours to get to Chiang Mai from Kanchanaburi and 10 hours to get from Chiang Mai to Ayutthaya.
For example, you could spend 2 days visiting the temples and historical sites and then split the rest of your time between a cooking class, a visit to the national park and a day trip to Chiang Rai.
If you want to visit Pai, I would add another 2 days to your journey. The Mae Song loop will require around 4 days as well, but of course, then encapsulates Pai. I would suggest a total of 5 extra days.
If you’re on a holiday and flying into Bangkok, unless you have more than 14 days I wouldn’t advise visiting Chiang Mai. Instead, spend a couple of days in Bangkok, 2 days in Ayutthaya, 3 days in Kanchanaburi, and then the rest of the trip on one of the southern islands.
Unless of course, you don’t want to include any beach time then, Chiang Mai it is!
How Affordable Is Chiang Mai?
In relative terms, Chiang Mai is very affordable. It’s a hotspot for digital nomads for this reason with many people being able to live for as little as $1,000 dollars a month while still enjoying an active social life.
For tourists, it can still be an affordable destination however taking tours and daily excursions will eventually add up. If you can do activities independently this will save you some money, however, it’s still a more affordable destination than say, Singapore.
✔️ In recent years, the cost of visiting Thailand has increased but not by much. One thing Jack and I were really impressed by was how Thailand has been able to develop and grow as a country and yet still remain affordable.
From my previous visit in 2010, I could clearly see an improvement in infrastructure, such as better roads, accommodation, and transport links. There were also not nearly as many stray animals roaming the streets as I was expecting!
You’ll also be happy to know that because Thailand is generally considered a cheap country to visit, you’ll be able to find really great affordable accommodation!
When Is The Best Time To Visit Chiang Mai?
The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the dry season which runs from November to April. However, it’s better not to visit during March as it’s the burning season and the air can become polluted.
The weather in Chiang Mai during the dry season will be sunny, cooler and pleasant with a nice breeze. This period is also the peak season which means higher tour and accommodation rates plus more crowds.
✔️ I would say the best month to visit Chiang Mai is February.
It’s worth weighing the positives and negatives and thinking about what activities you want to do. It’s worth considering your activities in Chiang Mai as some may be better during the wet season. Waterfalls and river activities such as white water rafting are better during the wet season when the rivers fill and the waterfalls become more powerful.
Is 5 days too long in Chiang Mai?
Most people, including myself, agree that 5 days is the minimum amount of time you would need for making a trip to Chiang Mai worth visiting. It allows time to visit the ancient temples and sites within the walled city, plus additional days to explore outside the city. The 5 days do not include travel to or from Chiang Mai, if you’re catching a train or bus you’ll need to allow an additional day on either side.
Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting
How To Get To Chiang Mai
Depending on your budget and travel preferences you have a few options to reach Chiang Mai. Most holiday-makers will opt to fly to Chiang Mai while the budget-conscious backpacker will either take a bus or train.
Train
If you are catching the train then I would definitely recommend the sleeper trains. Thailand is famed for its overnight trains and they are kind of a rite of passage for any backpacker visiting the country.
It can be a fun and entertaining experience but ensure you get at least the second class ticket if you’re travelling through the night. For day journeys, a third-class ticket is fine, just don’t expect air conditioning and get there early so you can grab a seat!
For the sleeper train, we spent 1,800 Bhat per person for the second class. You get you’re own bunk (with a curtain) pillow and blanket. It’s an experience we both enjoyed, although they never turned off the light so pack an eye mask.
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Bus
The bus to Chiang Mai is generally the cheapest option but also the most uncomfortable. The first time I went backpacking I remember the coach journeys being fine and I was able to sleep. Fast forward 15 years and now it’s hard work!
Although we were able to get some sleep, I would always suggest an overnight journey to save on accommodation costs, it was nowhere near as easy as it used to be.
You’ll likely get a sore bum and if the roads are not smooth it will be a bumpy journey too. Even so, you’re looking at about 600 Bhat per person one-way. The buses regularly run direct routes from popular cities including Bangkok, Kanchanaburi and Ayutthaya.
Plane
The quickest way to get to Chiang Mai is to fly. If you’ve come to Phuket’s international airport you’ll have to fly if you want to go direct to Chiang Mai as it’s not economical to do it any other way. If you’re in Bangkok you have options.
However, the flights vary in cost and although you can pick up a great deal if you’re flexible with your dates you might find a spontaneous trip to Chiang Mai too expensive.
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Getting Around Chiang Mai
The old city of Chiang Mai is surrounded by a moat and is easy to navigate. This is the area you’re more likely to be centred in although Nimman to the northwest of the walled city is also a popular spot.
Walk
If it’s your first time in Chiang Mai, opt to stay inside the walled city as you will be central to the attractions. If this is the case the easiest way is to walk around.
The city is safe for walking and you’ll find many small streets filled with cafes and restaurants, market stalls and massage shops. Choose one, sit back and enjoy being pampered, iced coffee in hand.
Tuk-tuk
Alternatively, you can use the famous tuk-tuks to get around. These are ideal if you’re visiting areas a little further away however be sure to ask your hotel how much the journey should cost, roughly, and make sure to agree on the price before getting in.
That said, we found most of the transport in Thailand to be honest and reliable, unlike those in Nicaragua! That story is coming soon…
If you’re arriving at the bus terminal instead of your traditional tuk-tuks you might notice the Songthaews. These are larger taxis with benches inside. These circle the city regularly and generally run between the bus stop and the city.
Scooter/Motorbike
Additionally, you can rent a scooter from one of the numerous motorbike rental companies in Chiang Mai. Having a scooter is an efficient mode of transport which is great if you’re taking day trips further afield to places such as the national park.
The great thing about having a scooter is you’ll have much more freedom to move around at your own pace. However, it is very important that you have travel insurance no matter your level of experience.
If you’ve never ridden a scooter before, Chiang Mai might not be the best place to start however the nearby town of Pai is. If you can get there to practice for a few days then Chiang Mai might be more accessible.
Is Chiang Mai Safe?
From our time spent in Chiang Mai, I feel it’s a safe place. All the places we visited in Thailand we considered safe places. There are of course always precautions you should take while travelling no matter where you go.
Practice safe travelling by:
- It’s important to remain vigilant.
- Never leave valuables laying around.
- Keep an eye on your surroundings.
- Avoid political protest and unrest.
- Don’t attract attention, this includes wearing expensive jewellery, flaunting cash and becoming too intoxicated.
Violent crime is rare in Chiang Mai however there are issues with petty crime. Theft and scams are the most common types of crime. Pickpocketing in the more touristy areas, like the street markets and around the walled city is also something to keep an eye out for.
It’s worth noting that some areas in southern Thailand have experienced political unrest and occasional incidents of violence. However, these incidents are generally limited to specific regions and have not affected the rest of the country, including Chiang Mai.
✔️ Make sure you keep up to date with current news and travel information and practice safe travelling to ensure you have the safest trip to Chiang Mai.
What Are The Negatives Of Chiang Mai Tourism?
While tourism as a whole has been great for Chiang Mai, it can also have some downsides. One of the biggest problems is that it can hurt the environment. All the extra visitors and infrastructure required for tourism have led to pollution, deforestation, and harm to wildlife.
There’s also the issue of resources – with more people around, some poorer areas might struggle with accessing enough water, food, and energy.
In effect, that can drive up prices and make things harder for locals. Speaking of locals, in some instances tourism has also pushed them out of their homes and communities to make way for hotels and tourist-related activities.
This is a sad truth which happens all over the world, especially when countries begin rapidly developing through tourism. For the most part, communities relish the wealth and opportunities tourism brings, but it’s not always the case.
There’s also the risk that the local culture might start to fade away as everyone tries to cater to tourists. However, since Thai culture is what attracts many to Chiang Mai the city has managed to hold onto its traditions.
Finally, there’s the issue of workers being exploited, especially in places like hotels and restaurants. It’s important to try to find a balance between tourism and sustainability so that we can keep enjoying awesome places like Chiang Mai without messing them up for good.
Is Thailand Worth Visiting?
We love Thailand. So far, it’s probably our favourite Southeast Asian destination (although we haven’t visited them all) in terms of affordability and accessibility. The country as a whole varies drastically from the southern islands to the mountainous north, this means the country literally has something for everyone.
It’s steeped in history and has a fascinating culture, the architecture is stunning and the Thai people are some of the most friendly and heart-warming people we have ever met.
The landscapes change from beaches to jungles to mountains and if you’re lucky enough to travel from top to toe you’ll be able to immerse yourself in this evolution. Find out more amazing things about the country and why we think Thailand is worth visiting here.
Is Bali Or Chiang Mai Better?
Hmm..tough question. We spent a lot of time in Bali, 6 months to be precise, before moving to Thailand and what we found was that both places have a unique charm.
It wasn’t too long ago that Chiang Mai was the top dog for digital nomads to escape to. However, these days, I would say Bali is more popular.
The problem with that is, Bali is now super busy and overcrowded and although the island offers the same laidback vibes as Chiang Mai, having to compete with the hordes of tourists is not fun. So, I would say if you want a slower pace and more peaceful escape head to Chiang Mai.
However, Bali is much bigger and encompasses far more activities than Chiang Mai and if you’re happy to explore further than south Bali then there are some promising places! Just check out Amed and Pemuteran…
Bali has the beach which is something Chaing Mai is sorely missing, but, Bali also has piles of roadside trash and an endless stream of stray dogs, Chiang Mai does not. Chaing Mai is cleaner, greener and less crowded.
That said, Bali does have an edge that Chiang Mai is missing. Remember I said Chiang Mai could get boring… Bali is far from boring!
Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting FAQs
Is Chiang Mai or Phuket better?
Chiang Mai and Phuket are very different cities with completely different vibes. Chiang Mai is a laidback hippie town high in the mountains that attracts digital nomads and tourists looking for a peaceful retreat. On the other hand, Phuket is a large island-like region in southern Thailand full of tropical vibes and party-goers. The two could not be more different which makes it hard to determine which is better.
If you’re a sun-worshipping, beach-loving social butterfly then it’s more likely you’ll enjoy Phuket most, however, if you prefer a slower pace of life and nature activities then Chiang Mai is for you.
Is Chiang Mai a party town?
In terms of being known as a party town, Chiang Mai is not. That’s not to say that it doesn’t have a night scene, because it does. There are a handful of night markets which are entertaining and will keep you busy throughout the night as you practice your bargaining skills. Plus plenty of bars, clubs and fun spots to drink, however, it’s not as lively as say Bangkok, which is known for its nightlife.
Why do people love Chiang Mai?
Many travellers love Chiang Mai due to its affordability and closeness to nature. It’s a superb place to visit if you love the outdoors and have an adventurous soul. It’s got an old-age charm and a laidback hippie vibe which has somehow intermingled with the local Thai culture. The two work symbiotically together attracting many digital nomads and ex-pats to the region. During a visit to Chiang Mai you’ll be able to interact with elephants, take a famous Thai cooking class and enjoy scenic views of the stunning landscape. Chiang Mai is also etched in history and has many ancient temples and historic sites to explore.
Conclusion: Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting?
Ultimately, we do feel that Chiang Mai is somewhere worth visiting. It’s a slice of hippie-heaven with an interesting past and lots of great activities. It’s not somewhere for those of you looking for a tropical escape and beach-laden days, so just keep that in mind.
However, if you prefer strolling around old temples and visiting boutique shops while hanging out at trendy little cafes then you’ll probably enjoy the buzz around Chiang Mai.
Elephant sanctuaries aside, there is plenty of other interesting wildlife, including many bird species with a beautiful song that emanates from within the national parks. They are lovely places to while away the day.
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