Thailand

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination when traveling to Thailand. With its historical monuments, rich culture, and natural attractions, the Rose of the North promises an exciting journey.

Chiang Mai

The second-largest city in Thailand after Bangkok, Chiang Mai is located in the far north of the country. It is a lively and pleasant city to visit. Renowned for its quality of life, affordable prices, and natural environment, Chiang Mai is often included in Thailand travel itineraries.

An ideal starting point for exploring the northern mountains of Thailand, Chiang Mai, the former capital of the Lanna kingdom, also invites you to discover Thai culture through its temples, cuisine, traditions, and welcoming population.

History of the city of Chiang Mai

In 1296, King Mengrai decided to found the city of Chiang Mai to become the capital of the Lanna kingdom and thus succeed Chiang Rai, which previously held this title.

To fortify the city against attacks from the Burmese armed forces, King Mengrai ordered the construction of a moat and a wall around it. Despite the construction of these walls, Chiang Mai was still besieged by the Burmese, from 1558 to 1725 by the Taungû dynasty, and later by the Konbaung dynasty.

After the last invasion, Chiang Mai was deserted by its inhabitants, and the city remained uninhabited for nearly fifteen years.

In 1774, when King Taksin came to power, he took charge and declared Chiang Mai once again the cultural and economic capital of the North.

Visiting Chiang Mai, the Rose of the North of Thailand

Chiang Mai has retained its cultural identity thanks to its inhabitants. They have managed to preserve their customs and traditions despite the city's development, the arrival of foreign expatriates, and the growth of local tourism.

Often described as a pleasant place to live, Chiang Mai takes you through its typical markets, Buddhist temples, and the lush nature surrounding it. Whether you come for a quick getaway or for a multi-day vacation in Chiang Mai, there will be no room for boredom.

Which temples to visit in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is renowned for its many Buddhist temples scattered throughout the city and its surroundings.

Wat Sri Suphan Temple

Plan a visit to Wat Sri Suphan Temple, located in the south of Chiang Mai. Built around 1502, the majority of the buildings comprising the complex are made of silver. The goldsmiths of the time offered exquisite decorative elements to Wat Sri Suphan.

Monk Chat Sessions

Organized every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., these sessions are opportunities for exchanges between the monks of the temple and the visitors. Discussions revolve around the life of a monk, the history of the temple, the lives of the inhabitants of Chiang Mai, etc. Buddhist monks also teach meditation there.

Doi Suthep Temple and Wat Phalat

Located outside the city and perched at 1,200 meters above sea level, Doi Suthep Temple is one of the most popular temples in Chiang Mai. Many tourists come here to enjoy the panoramic view of the city below.

On the way, stop at Wat Phalat Temple, hidden in the forest and often overlooked by travelers. You will have a quieter experience there, in the heart of dense vegetation. Its access requires a short hike, with some difficult passages in the shade of trees. Upon arriving at the temple, you will also get a nice view of the city. Small buildings slowly emerge from the forest to reveal Buddha sculptures wearing a yellow robe. Below, small chapels and temples are guarded by dragons and Buddhist deities.

Wat Umong Temple

Another monument not to be missed, Wat Umong Temple is located in the west of the old city and benefits from a rather exceptional setting in the heart of a forest. Built around 1297, it is famous, among other things, for its tunnels adorned with murals illustrating the site's past.

A place for meditation

Following renovations in 1948, Wat Umong Temple became a meditation center accessible to the general public. Local monks teach the basic principles of this art as well as Buddhism. Some of them have a good knowledge of English and can answer your questions.

Access to the site is free. The temple is open from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m..

Wat Chiang Man Temple

This is the oldest temple in the city, located northeast of old Chiang Mai. Its construction began in the 13th century under the command of King Mengrai, the founder of the Lanna kingdom.

The sanctuary houses two important Buddha statues, one made of crystal known as "Phra Satang Man" and the other made of marble called "Phra Sila.".

Wat Chiang Man Temple houses a large stupa built in the 14th century by King Saen Muang Ma to preserve the ashes of his father. The work lasted nearly 10 years, then was suspended at the death of the sovereign. The construction site was only resumed in the mid-15th century, during the reign of King Titokaraj. The main attraction of the place is its 60-meter-high pagoda, the cubic base of which is about 40 meters wide.

Moreover, the sanctuary once housed the famous Emerald Buddha, which is now preserved in the Wat Phra Kaeo in Bangkok.

Explore the old city and night markets of Chiang Mai

Take a stroll in the old city, surrounded by walls, and enjoy the numerous art and craft shops. On Sunday evenings, don't miss the famous night market. In a cheerful atmosphere, walk between the stalls, do some shopping, and indulge in delicious Pad Thai or skewers for just a few baht. Enjoy your treats within the temple grounds, which host food stalls for this purpose. If you're tired from your day of sightseeing, you can treat yourself to a foot, shoulder, or head massage from Thai masseurs set up along the sidewalk at the market entrance.

Other markets and night markets are worth visiting. Consider the large central market of Warorot, considered a true institution in Chiang Mai. Located in the Chinatown district, the Warorot market is the oldest and largest market in the city. On Saturdays, the Night Bazaar held in the city center welcomes hundreds of merchants in three distinct areas: the Original Night Bazaar, Kalare Night Bazaar, and Anusarn Night Bazaar.

Trekking in the Doi Inthanon mountains in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is renowned for its beautiful natural landscapes and numerous hiking opportunities. To escape the urban hustle and bustle, dedicate one or more days to exploring the surrounding mountains. Embark on a trek to Mount Doi Inthanon, which rises to 2,565 meters and is considered "the roof of Thailand." Jungle, forest, mountain ranges, rivers, and waterfalls line the path to the summit.

In addition, several sites around Chiang Mai offer activities such as ziplining, bamboo rafting, and encounters with elephants.

Festivals not to be missed in Chiang Mai

In February

In February, don't miss the opportunity to participate in the Chiang Mai Flower Festival. Generally, the event takes place on the first weekend of February. For 3 days, from Friday to Sunday, several activities are organized, such as the parade of flower-decorated floats, beauty contests, dance competitions, music, etc.

All participants in the parade start from the city's railway station, pass through Nawarat Bridge, and finish their parade at Nong Bual Hat Park.

In April

Every year, often between April 12th and 15th, the Buddhist New Year, or Songkran, is celebrated in Chiang Mai. Throughout the festivities, locals splash water in the streets of the city, all in a good-natured atmosphere.

Songkran is an opportunity for locals to show respect to their elders.

When to visit Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai has a tropical climate divided into two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The best time to visit the region is between the months of November and February.

How to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok?

The city of Chiang Mai is located in the north of Thailand, near the Burmese border. You can go there by bus, overnight train, or plane.

Reaching Chiang Mai by bus

From Bangkok, located about 700 km from Chiang Mai, go to Mo Chit bus station. For comfortable travel, opt for a VIP 24 bus if your budget allows.

Traveling by overnight train to Chiang Mai

Also from Bangkok, go to Hua Lampong station to catch an overnight train. The advantage of choosing this option is that it will save you a night's hotel stay. Moreover, in the early morning, you will have the opportunity to admire the landscapes of Chiang Mai province.

Arriving at Chiang Mai airport

Flying is the fastest way to get to Chiang Mai, as the journey takes only 1 hour. If you want to save money, you can travel with one of the Thai low-cost airlines from Don Mueang Domestic Airport in Bangkok to Chiang Mai Airport.

How to get around Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai offers several transportation options for residents and visitors. The most common and convenient mode of transportation is the Songthaew, a red collective taxi that runs at affordable prices and offers fixed routes throughout the city. Tuk-tuks are also popular for quick trips; make sure to negotiate prices before departure.

Mopeds and scooters are widely rented to explore the city and its surroundings independently. Cycling enthusiasts can rent bicycles to travel eco-friendly while discovering the charming streets of Chiang Mai. Finally, car rental services are also available for those seeking total autonomy.

Choose your cocoon among the many hotels in Chiang Mai

The city offers a wide range of accommodation options. Hotels in Chiang Mai come in different categories, ranging from luxury resorts to charming hostels. There is something for every taste and budget. The locations are also varied to discover local attractions, markets, temples, etc. It's up to you to choose !