Chiang Mai, explained
Chiang Mai is the capital of northern Thailand — a walled old city of temples, mountain scenery, cooking schools and ethical elephant sanctuaries, with a cooler climate than the south.
- November to February
- Chiang Mai International (CNX), about 15 minutes from the old city
- 3–5 days
- Red songthaews, ride-hailing apps, tuk-tuks — the old city is walkable
The old city, ringed by a moat and the remains of its walls, holds hundreds of temples within walking distance of each other. Above the city, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep looks down from its mountain.
Most visitors add at least one day out of town: an elephant sanctuary, Doi Inthanon — Thailand's highest mountain — or the long day trip to Chiang Rai's White Temple.
Best time to visit Chiang Mai
Cool season
Clear, comfortable days and cool nights — the best time to visit. The Yi Peng lantern festival falls in November, with dates set by the lunar calendar.
Hot and smoky season
Hot, and from late February to April seasonal burning can bring heavy haze and poor air quality. Check air-quality forecasts if you are sensitive to it.
Rainy season
Green countryside and fewer visitors. Rain is frequent but rarely lasts all day.
Getting to Chiang Mai
- Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is close to the city, with frequent flights from Bangkok (a little over an hour) and some international routes.
- Overnight sleeper trains run from Bangkok.
Private transfers in Chiang Mai start from ฿1,232 — compare 91 options.
Getting around Chiang Mai
- Red songthaews (rot daeng) are shared taxis — tell the driver where you're going and agree the fare.
- Ride-hailing apps and tuk-tuks cover the city; the old city is easy to explore on foot.
- For Doi Inthanon, sanctuaries and Chiang Rai, a tour or private driver saves hours.
The best areas to stay in Chiang Mai
- Old City
- Inside the moat: temples, guesthouses and the Sunday Walking Street.
- Nimmanhaemin (Nimman)
- West of the old city, modern and lively, full of cafés and restaurants.
- Riverside
- Along the Ping River, with boutique hotels and a slower pace.
- Night Bazaar area
- East of the old city, convenient for markets and transport.
How many days in Chiang Mai?
Three to five days: the old city and Doi Suthep, a cooking class, an elephant sanctuary and a mountain day. Add a day for Chiang Rai.
Experiences worth booking in Chiang Mai
All 144 in Chiang Mai →
Doi Inthanon National Park - Chiang Mai - SIC Basis
Golden Triangle Boat Ride - Upto 5 PAX
Golden Triangle with Laos Island (Don Sao) Tour
Traveller's Retreat - 3 Hours
Co Combo Chiang Mai Bicycle Tour with Local Set Meal - Join Tour
Baan Dam Museum (Black House) – Entry Ticket
Lalitta Cafe - Entry Ticket Only
Welcome Dinner - Accha Restaurant
Chiang Mai travel tips
- Choose elephant experiences that do not offer riding or performances — observation, feeding and bathing are the ethical standard.
- Cover shoulders and knees at temples and remove your shoes where asked.
- Bring a warm layer from December to February; mountain mornings are genuinely cold.
Chiang Mai travel questions
What is the best month to visit Chiang Mai?
November to February, for cool, dry weather and clear mountain views. March and April can be hazy from seasonal burning.
Can I visit Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai in a day?
Yes, as a long day trip — the drive is about three hours each way. Tours usually combine the White Temple, the Blue Temple and the Golden Triangle.
Are elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai ethical?
Some are and some are not. Look for places with no riding, no shows and small group sizes, where visitors observe, feed and walk with the elephants.
How much is a private transfer in Chiang Mai?
Private transfers in Chiang Mai start from THB 1,232 on Explera Discover, including the payment processing fee. 91 vehicle and route options are available.
What can I book in Chiang Mai?
Explera Discover lists 53 experiences and 91 private transfers in Chiang Mai, each confirmed by Explera DMC's local team.
Book Chiang Mai with a local team behind you
Prices include the payment fee. Every booking is confirmed by our local team.