Thailand
Chiang Mai travel guide
Plan a trip to Chiang Mai: what to eat, where to stay, the best day trips and ready-made day-by-day plans.
What to eat in Chiang Mai
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Khao SoiYellow wheat noodles in a coconut‑curry broth, served with chicken or beef, eaten for lunch or dinner.
Sai UaLanna‑style pork sausage flavored with lemongrass, galangal and chilies, sold at markets and street stalls.
Hang LeySlow‑cooked pork in a rich, mildly spicy coconut sauce, common at family meals and night‑market stalls.
Nam Prik NoomRoasted green chilies mixed with garlic and lime, eaten with fresh vegetables and sticky rice.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
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culture lovers
Stay within the historic walls to walk to temples and night markets; many guesthouses and boutique inns.
young travelers
Hip area with cafés, co‑working spaces and boutique hostels; good nightlife.
budget backpackers
Quiet residential streets with cheap guesthouses and easy bus access to the city centre.
long‑stay families
Suburban area with larger villas and garden resorts, near rice fields and waterfalls.
Day trips from Chiang Mai
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Doi Inthanon National Park
46 km
A high‑altitude park with waterfalls, trails and Thailand’s highest peak, good for cool scenery
Bua Thong Sticky Waterfall
83 km
A limestone cascade you can climb, offering a unique sticky rock experience
Chiang Dao Cave
68 km
A limestone cave near a mountain village, accessible via a short hike
Mae Sa Waterfall
16 km
A series of tiered falls in a pine forest, popular for picnics and short walks
Best time to visit
Best time to go: December – February
Midday highs, based on last year's weather. Green months have comfortable temperatures and few rainy days.
Turn this into a day-by-day plan with Triptime AI, or start from a ready-made one.
Plan 4 days in Chiang Mai
What to pack in October
Ready-made plans for Chiang Mai
Questions about Chiang Mai
When is the best time to try khao soi?
Most stalls serve it all day, but lunchtime crowds give the freshest bowls.
Do I need a reservation for a khantoke dinner?
Yes, especially on weekends; call the venue a day before.
Is it safe to walk around the Old City at night?
Generally safe, but keep valuables hidden and stay on well‑lit streets.
Can I find vegetarian options in Chiang Mai?
Many restaurants offer tofu or vegetable khao soi and fresh salads; ask for “jay” dishes.
