Chiang Mai Travel Guide - The best of North Thailand
Temples, Mountains, and the Magic of Northern Thailand
After months of exploring “Down Under” during our Big Lap around Australia, we traded the outback for the mountains. We’ve touched down in Chiang Mai, the heart of Northern Thailand, and it feels like coming home.
Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second-largest city, but don’t let that fool you. It’s 40 times smaller than Bangkok, making it incredibly authentic, cozy, and easy to navigate. From $2 street food to 14th-century ruins, here is how to spend an epic few days in the “Rose of the North.” Our Chiang Mai travel guide is all you need!
1. The Old City: An Open-Air Museum
Walking through Chiang Mai’s Old Town feels like stepping back in time. Even a simple walk to a restaurant turns into a cultural tour. The city is packed with Wats (temples) and spiritual gardens that make you feel instantly zen.
Wat Phra Singh: The most important temple complex in the city. It houses the Phra Singh (Lion Buddha), the most sacred statue in town. If you’re lucky, you might catch a performance of the Fingernail Dance, a traditional Northern Thai dance that recently set a world record with 10,000 dancers!
Wat Chedi Luang: Known as the “Temple of the Great Stupa.” Built in the 14th century, this massive structure was partially destroyed by an earthquake in the 1500s. It once housed the famous Emerald Buddha (now in Bangkok).
Pro Tip: Look for the star signs around the stupa based on your birth year.
Wat Phan Tao: Located right next to Chedi Luang, this beautiful wooden temple is often free to enter and offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets.
2. Doi Inthanon: The Roof of Thailand
For a change of pace, we took a day trip 75km outside the city to Doi Inthanon National Park. This is the highest point in Thailand, reaching 2,565 meters above sea level.
The Cloud Forest: Expect mist, mossy trees, and a mysterious atmosphere. It’s much cooler up here than in the city—perfect for a “toasty” from 7-Eleven!
The Royal Twin Pagodas: Built to honor the 60th birthdays of the late King and Queen, these pagodas are surrounded by stunning gardens. Even on a foggy day, the vibe is purely mystical.
Wachirathan Waterfall: One of the eight waterfalls in the park. At 40 meters high, it’s incredibly powerful, especially during the wetter months. Be prepared to get soaked by the spray!
3. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: The Golden Icon
You haven’t truly seen Chiang Mai until you’ve visited Doi Suthep. Perched on a mountain 1,000 meters above the city, this is the most sacred site in the region.
To reach the golden temple, you have two choices:
The Staircase: Climb the 309 steps flanked by Naga rails. It’s a “stairway to heaven” and part of the pilgrimage experience.
The Cable Car: For those traveling with kids or grandparents, there’s an elevator/cable car that whisks you straight to the top.
The reward? Breathtaking views of the entire Chiang Mai valley and a temple glittering in pure gold.
Travel Tips for Chiang Mai
Where to Stay: You can find incredible hotels with pools in the city center for as little as €20 a night. This is the hotel where we stayed in.
Must-Try: Grab some fried bananas from a street vendor and try the local strawberries if you’re heading into the mountains!
Getting Around: The Old City is very walkable, but for trips like Doi Inthanon (75km away), you’ll need a driver or a rental car. If you want to skip the hassle of navigating, we recommend booking a guided day tour to the mountains.
The Food: Don’t miss the street art alleys and local markets. You can grab a world-class Thai meal for under $2. For the best experience, join a local street food tour to discover hidden spots you’d never find on your own. Use our code WOUTOFTHEWORLD5 for an exclusive discount.
BEST TRAVEL TIME?Cool Season (November to February): This is widely considered the best time to visit. The weather is stunning, with clear blue skies and cooler temperatures—perfect for exploring the Ancient ruins of the Old City. We visited Chiang Mai in December.
The Wet Season (June to October): While you might catch some rain, this is when the nature in Doi Inthanon is at its most spectacular. The waterfalls, like the powerful Wachirathan, are especially impressive and heavy during these months.
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Watch the full adventure!
Want to see these temples and mountain views for yourself? Grab a drink, sit back, and join us on our journey through Chiang Mai and beyond in the video below.
Why you should visit Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is more than just a stop on a map; it’s a feeling. Whether you’re standing in silence before the ancient stones of Wat Chedi Luang, feeling the mist on your face at the Roof of Thailand, or sharing a laugh over a $2 plate of Pad Thai, this city has a way of slowing you down in the best way possible. It’s the perfect blend of Northern Thai Heritage and modern mountain life. We’re leaving the “Rose of the North” with full hearts (and even fuller stomachs), ready to see what the rugged peaks of Chiang Dao have in store for us. If you’re looking for a place where culture meets adventure, Chiang Mai is waiting for you.
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