Chiang Mai is a charming city in northern Thailand known for its rich history, beautiful temples, and vibrant night markets. It’s perfect for culture lovers, foodies, and nature enthusiasts seeking a relaxed yet culturally immersive experience.
When to go
November to February offers cool, dry weather ideal for exploring. The hot season (March-May) can be intense, and the rainy season (June-October) brings heavy showers but lush landscapes.
Jan
27° · 20 mm rain
cool and dry
Feb
30° · 28 mm rain
pleasant and dry
Mar
34° · 9 mm rain
hot and dry
Apr
35° · 60 mm rain
very hot
May
34° · 202 mm rain
hot and rainy
Jun
31° · 246 mm rain
rainy season
Jul
30° · 357 mm rain
Not ideal
Aug
29° · 401 mm rain
heavy rain
Sep
29° · 342 mm rain
rainy season
Oct
29° · 176 mm rain
less rain
Nov
29° · 65 mm rain
cool and dry
Dec
27° · 24 mm rain
cool and dry
Best timeGoodQuieterNot ideal
Average daily high and monthly rain over the last ten years, from weather records by Open-Meteo
Top things to do
Old City Temples
Explore historic temples like Wat Phra Singh; go early to avoid crowds.
Doi Suthep
Visit the mountain temple for panoramic views; best at sunrise.
Night Bazaar
Shop local crafts and street food; bargain politely.
Elephant Nature Park
Ethical elephant sanctuary; book tours in advance.
Sunday Walking Street
Vibrant market with food and crafts; great for souvenirs.
Cooking Classes
Learn authentic Thai dishes; many offer market tours.
Food to try
Khao Soi
Northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup, a must-try.
Chang Phuak Night Market
Famous for street food and local snacks.
Sai Oua
Spicy northern Thai sausage, perfect with sticky rice.
Warorot Market
Local market with fresh produce and traditional eats.
Where to stay
- Old City: Historic heart, close to temples, suits first-time visitors.
- Nimmanhaemin: Trendy area with cafes and nightlife, great for young travelers.
- Riverside: Relaxed vibe by the river, ideal for couples and families.
Getting around
From Chiang Mai Airport, tuk-tuks cost about 150-200 THB to city center. Songthaews and motorbike taxis are cheap and common for short trips.
Good to know
- Dress modestly when visiting temples.
- Beware tuk-tuk scams; agree on price beforehand.
- Carry cash; many places don’t accept cards.
Emergency numbers
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Plan a trip to Chiang MaiWritten with AI on October 7, 2026 and refreshed every month. Check opening times, prices and entry rules before you go.