Thailand
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is northern Thailand's leading cultural city, set on the banks of the Ping River. It's a great place to visit temples such as Doi Suthep and Wat Phra Singh and to enjoy nature at Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.
Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
- Gateway airport
- Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
- Best season
- Nov–Feb
- Time zone
- Asia/Bangkok
- Sights covered
- 19 places
Sights worth seeing
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Nature
Doi Suthep
A 1,676-meter mountain west of Chiang Mai, with two granite peaks rising side by side near its summit. The other peak, Doi Pui, is slightly higher.
Temples & religious sites
Wat Phra Sing
One of Chiang Mai's leading Buddhist temples, home to the revered Phra Buddha Sihing image. Walking through the temple grounds offers an up-close look at Thai Buddhist culture.
Zoos & aquariums
Chiang Mai Zoo
The first zoo in northern Thailand, located west of Chiang Mai University. Since opening in 1977, it has been a beloved outing spot where visitors can see a wide variety of animals.
Parks & gardens
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park
A national park on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, home to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple and Bhubing Palace, the Thai royal family's winter residence, nestled in the mountains. It's a great spot to combine temple visits with walks through lush nature.
Temples & religious sites
Ban Ho Mosque
A mosque near Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar, one of the largest in the area. Founded by Chinese immigrants, it's one of the few mosques in Chiang Mai.
Heritage & monuments
Wiang Kum Kam
An ancient city ruin on the banks of the Ping River outside Chiang Mai, Thailand, once used as the capital by King Mangrai before he moved it to Chiang Mai. Long submerged underwater before resurfacing, it's a worthwhile destination for exploring ancient ruins.
Temples & religious sites
Attaqwa Mosque
A mosque east of the Ping River in Chiang Mai, one of the city's Chinese Muslim mosques. It's a good place to take in an exotic atmosphere within Thailand.
Museums & galleries
Chiang Mai National Museum
A national museum near Wat Chet Yot in northwest Chiang Mai, where you can explore the history and artifacts of the Lanna Kingdom with descriptions in Thai and English. It's a recommended stop for travelers wanting a deeper understanding of northern Thai culture.
How many days do you need?
Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.
Average temperature by month
5-year average
Getting there
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Getting around the city
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Guides by theme
Best value
Where to stay in Chiang Mai for the best value
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5-star & luxury
Where to stay in Chiang Mai for a luxury experience
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Pool villas & resorts
How to choose a pool villa or resort in Chiang Mai
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Family travel
Where to stay in Chiang Mai for a family trip
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Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Chiang Mai for couples and honeymooners
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Central & near stations
Where to stay in Chiang Mai for central access and transport convenience
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Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai, Thailand?
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First-time guide
How to plan your first trip to Chiang Mai
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Getting around
How to get around Chiang Mai, Thailand
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