Chiang Mai
Plan Your Trip to Chiang Mai
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When to Go?
Best time: November-February. Cooler evenings, zero rain and perfect weather for mountain trekking.
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Where to Stay?
Old City for atmosphere and temples, Nimman for cafes and nightlife. Each neighborhood has its own charm.
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What to See?
Over 300 temples, the golden Doi Suthep, night markets and mountains all around. Trekking, culture and amazing food.
Ready to plan your adventure?
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What readers say about the guide
Join those who discovered the real Chiang Mai with my guide
“If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai and looking for a complete, yet light and enjoyable guide, this ebook is a bullseye! You can tell the author spent a lot of time there and knows the city inside out – she not only describes the most popular attractions, but also shares less obvious gems that might escape tourists.”
“If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai, this e-book is something you can’t miss! This is not an ordinary guide – it’s a collection of many very practical tips that will really make your stay easier, but also a personal story of the author who shares her experience of living and working remotely in this magical place.”
Why Chiang Mai is My Favorite Place in Thailand?
I lived in Chiang Mai for 3 years and this city completely captivated me. This isn’t your typical Thai vacation with beaches and cocktails – it’s something much deeper.
Mountains and Nature Instead of Beaches
Jungle trekking, waterfalls, rice terraces and cooler evenings – you don’t have to roast on the beach here.
Over 300 Temples and Authentic Culture
This is the cultural capital of the North. Fewer tourists, more local life and genuine Thai atmosphere.
The Best Thai Cuisine
Khao Soi, Sai Oua, night markets full of local delicacies – this is where you taste the real Thailand.
Read the Best Articles
Detailed guides and practical tips from my blog
🛕 Temples & Culture
🍜 Food & Life
What travelers say
Join hundreds of people who discovered Thailand with my guides
“Your e-book is great! Easy and readable without unnecessary information. I will definitely recommend it to anyone who would like to go to Thailand.”
“Joanna’s travel plan helped us a lot. Thanks to it, we saved stress and enjoyed the trip. I recommend it to people who are traveling even for the second time!”
Need More Than Just a Vacation?
Living, working and teaching in Chiang Mai
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How to Live in Chiang Mai
Finding an apartment, cost of living and practical tips for those thinking about a longer stay.
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Remote Work in Chiang Mai
Co-working spaces, internet, digital nomad community and everything you need to know.
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Teaching in Chiang Mai
How to find work as an English teacher, requirements, salary and life in CM.
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Expat Life in Chiang Mai
Community, culture, integration with local life and everyday challenges.
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Digital Nomad in CM
Best cafes to work from, visas, costs and why CM is paradise for nomads.
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Schools and Employers in CM
Overview of the best language schools, how to find private students and what they offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Chiang Mai
How many days do I need in Chiang Mai?
Minimum 4-5 days to feel the city’s atmosphere and see the main attractions. Ideally 7 days – then you’ll have time for the Old City, temples, mountain trekking, night markets and a trip to Doi Suthep. If you’re planning day trips to Chiang Rai, Pai or Doi Inthanon, stay 10-14 days.
Which neighborhood is best for tourists?
Old City is the best choice for a first visit – close to temples, authentic atmosphere, great food. If you prefer modern vibes, cafes and nightlife, choose Nimman. Avoid areas near the airport – too far from everything. Riverside is also nice, but less central.
Is Chiang Mai more expensive than Bangkok?
No, Chiang Mai is cheaper! Accommodation costs about 30-40% less than in Bangkok, food is similarly cheap (and often better), local transport is cheaper. The only thing more expensive is getting to/from Bangkok – a flight is about $40, overnight bus about $15. Generally, a day in Chiang Mai costs $40-60 for comfortable travel.
How do I get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
You have three options:
1. Flight – fastest (1h 15min), cheapest with Air Asia or Nok Air (from $40)
2. Night train – atmospheric 12-14h, sleeper compartments from $25, book in advance
3. VIP/First Class bus – 10-12h overnight, comfortable seats, about $15-20
I recommend flying one way and taking the night train the other – you’ll see Thailand from a different perspective!
Can I see elephants ethically in Chiang Mai?
Yes! Choose a sanctuary, NOT a camp. In sanctuaries there’s no elephant riding, shows or chains. Elephants roam freely and are well-treated. The best places are Elephant Nature Park and similar. Cost: 2000-3000 baht (about $60-90). Avoid places offering elephant rides, bathing with elephants or “elephant trekking” – this is often animal cruelty.
What’s the temperature in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai has three seasons:
• Cool (November-February): 59-82°F – perfect! Evenings can be cold, bring a light jacket
• Hot (March-May): 86-104°F – very hot, worst time for sightseeing
• Rainy (June-October): 77-90°F, rain mainly in the afternoon
In the mountains it’s always 9-18°F cooler. In winter at the top of Doi Inthanon it can be close to freezing!