Chiang Mai holidays

How to reach Chiang Mai

• Flight time: Flights to Chiang Mai from the UK typically involve a connection in Bangkok or hubs like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. The most common route is flying from London to Bangkok (11 to 12 hours), followed by a 1-hour flight to Chiang Mai.

• Transfer time: Chiang Mai International Airport is a 10 to 15-minute ride from the city centre, and the journey is best by taxi.

• Price: A taxi from the airport to central Chiang Mai costs around B150 (£3.50).

Best time to visit Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai enjoys a more varied climate than much of Thailand. In the cool season, temperatures are lower than in Bangkok or the southern islands, while the hot season can be the hottest in the country. Choosing when to visit depends on your weather preference and if you're timing your visit for one of the local festivals.

• November to February: This is the best time for Chiang Mai holidays, with cool, dry weather and temperatures topping out at 21°C to 24°C, making it perfect for exploring the outdoors, although it can get cold at night. The city is alive with festivals, including the famous Loy Krathong (Yipeng), where lanterns light up the night sky.

• March to May: This period brings hot, dry weather, with average highs of 21°C to 24°C, but sometimes soaring up to 35°C. If you can handle the heat, you’ll find fewer crowds and it’s a great time for budget travellers. Be aware, though, that March and April can be smokey in some places due to the agricultural burning season, which may affect air quality.

• June to October: These are the rainy months, characterised by frequent showers and lush, green scenery. The temperature generally stays around 25°C to 28°C, and though the rains can be heavy, they often clear up quickly. This season is less crowded, with hotel deals to be found, but you will need an umbrella or a waterproof jacket.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Thai is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Thai phrases will go a long way in winning smiles and getting better treatment.

• Local habits and customs: Thai people are known for their politeness and gentle manner, so showing respect and a friendly attitude will help a lot. It’s considered rude to touch someone’s head or point your feet at people or sacred objects. Dress modestly when visiting temples, including removing your shoes.

• Currency: The Thai currency is the baht (B). ATMs are plentiful, and most major credit or debit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants and shops. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for markets, small shops and transport.

• Getting around: Chiang Mai is easy to navigate. The Old Town is best explored on foot or by hiring a bicycle. Songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) are the most common form of public transport and are very cheap. Tuk-tuks and taxis are also available but be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand. Grab (the local equivalent of Uber) is a reliable option for getting around the city.

• Electricity and plug types: Thailand uses a 220V supply with two-prong round- or flat-pin plugs. UK travellers should take a multi-travel adaptor.

• Time zone: Thailand is on Indochina Time (ICT), 7 hours ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK visitors can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days, but your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and you’ll need an onward or return ticket.

Best things to do in Chiang Mai

Located in the heart of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a historic city with ancient temples and bustling night markets, surrounded by lush mountains. There’s plenty of culture on offer, with traditional arts, crafts and festivals; lots of adventurous outdoor activities; and more relaxing pursuits such as meditation and Thai cooking classes.

The best districts

• Old Town: Encircled by a moat and crumbling city walls, the Old Town is the location for most of Chiang Mai’s historic temples, museums and bustling markets. Wander through the streets and soak up the atmosphere.

• Nimmanhaemin: This trendy neighbourhood is known for its artsy cafés, boutique shops and hip nightlife. It’s also where you’ll find a lot of younger locals and expats, giving the area a vibrant, cosmopolitan feel.

• Riverside: The new town along the Ping River has a more relaxed atmosphere, with lovely riverside restaurants and bars. It’s a great spot for a sunset drink or an evening stroll.

Historic monuments

• Wat Phra Singh: Chiang Mai’s most impressive temple complex, known for its classic Lanna architecture and intricate wood carvings. It’s a peaceful place to explore, especially early in the morning.

• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: An absolute must-see, this iconic temple not only boasts breathtaking views of the city below, but also serves as one of the most sacred sites in northern Thailand. The temple itself is a stunning structure and the 306-step climb is well worth it, or the cable car can whisk you to the top.

Day trips in the area

• Doi Inthanon National Park: Home to Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon is a beautiful area of countryside with cooler weather and some of the best wildlife spotting in Southeast Asia. The park has everything from picturesque waterfalls and stunning trails to diverse birdlife, plus a pair of pagodas that offer incredible views of the surrounding valleys.

• Pai: About a three-hour drive from Chiang Mai, Pai is a laid-back town known for its hot springs, waterfalls and bohemian vibe. It’s a great place to unwind, with plenty of trekking and rafting options plus elephant experiences for those looking for adventure.

Activities for families in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is surprisingly family-friendly, with a variety of activities that kids will love.

• Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium: Home to thousands of animals, including many favourite large mammals such as elephants, giraffes, koalas and pandas, this is a modern zoo with good animal welfare. There’s also a large aquarium featuring fresh- and salt-water creatures, with touch pools and even the chance to snorkel with them.

• Elephant sanctuaries: The Thai Elephant Conservation Centre or Elephant Nature Park are some of the most ethical and authentic places in Thailand to meet and learn about these gentle giants. They even offer opportunities to wash or feed them!

Free things to do in Chiang Mai

If you’re on a budget, don’t worry – Chiang Mai has plenty of free attractions and activities that let you soak up the local culture without spending a penny.

• Festivals: The city has the biggest celebrations in Thailand for Songkran, the Thai New Year water festival, while the colourful Yipeng lantern festival has thousands of candles sent down the river in miniature boats and floating up into the sky in lanterns.

• Temples: Many of Chiang Mai’s temples are free to enter (with donations welcomed), including Wat Umong, a unique forest temple with tunnels, and Wat Suan Dok, which offers meditation classes. Exploring these temples allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Wellness in Chiang Mai

• Spas and massage: From simple street-side massage shops to luxurious spas, Chiang Mai has no shortage of places to treat yourself. Some of the best places are schools, offering no frills but great-value traditional Thai massages, and also the chance to learn how to do them yourself.

• Yoga and meditation: Chiang Mai is known for its retreat centres, offering everything from yoga classes to week-long meditation retreats, with instruction often in English.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Chiang Mai is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that lead you through lush forests past waterfalls up to stunning viewpoints. As well as shorter hikes near the city, tour operators offer multi-day trips across the north of the country.

• Watersports: The nearby rivers and lakes are great spots for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, white-water rafting and even wakeboarding.

Local dishes in Chiang Mai

One of the highlights of holidays to Chiang Mai is diving into its diverse and flavourful cuisine. The city is renowned for its mix of traditional Thai dishes, northern specialities and vibrant street food. Here’s a taste of what you should look out for.

Some typical dishes

• Khao Soi: This is Chiang Mai’s most famous dish – a curried coconut soup with crispy egg noodles on top and tender chicken or beef with soft noodles below. It’s rich, spicy and incredibly comforting.

• Sai Oua: Bursting with herbs, spices and a hint of chilli, this grilled northern Thai sausage is a must-try. You’ll find it in markets across the city – perfect for a quick snack.

• Nam Prik Noom: A spicy green chilli dip often served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice. It’s a staple of northern Thai cuisine, and you’ll see it at most local eateries.

Street food

• Moo Ping: Grilled pork skewers marinated in a mix of soy sauce, garlic and coriander root. Often served with sticky rice, it’s a popular street snack that’s perfect for eating on the go.

• Pad Thai: Though originally from central Thailand, you’ll still find plenty of Pad Thai stalls in Chiang Mai. It’s the perfect blend of stir-fried noodles, eggs, tofu, shrimp, bean sprouts and crunchy peanuts, often served with a splash of lime and a sprinkle of chilli.

Sweets and desserts

• Khao Niaw Mamuang: Don’t miss this delicious dish, where sweet sticky rice is topped with ripe mango slices and coconut milk. You can find it everywhere from night markets to street stalls.

• Roti: Thin, flaky pancake-style bread cooked on a hot plate and a sweet street-food favourite, ideal for a quick snack or dessert. Popular fillings include banana, sugar, chocolate spread and condensed milk.

Local drinks

• Cha Yen: This sweet, iced tea is flavoured with star anise and topped with condensed milk – perfect for cooling down on a warm day.

• Beer: The local Chang, Singha and Leo beers are light and refreshing, making them ideal for sipping on a hot day or accompanying a meal.