Chiang Mai,Thailand

• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (mountain-top temple with panoramic views)
• Old City temples: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang
• Doi Inthanon National Park (Thailand's highest peak, waterfalls, nature trails)
• Night Bazaar & Sunday Walking Street (Tha Pae Gate market)
• Elephant Nature Park and ethical elephant sanctuaries
• Nimmanhaemin Road (cafés, galleries, nightlife)
• Chiang Mai Gate Market & Warorot Market (local food and produce)
• Doi Suthep–Pui National Park (hiking, viewpoints, Hmong village)

• Distinctive Lanna temple architecture and gilded chedis
• Vibrant night markets and street-food culture
• Mountainous scenery and nearby waterfalls (e.g., Mae Sa, Mae Sae)
• Diverse hill-tribe cultures (Karen, Hmong, Lisu, Akha) and homestays
• Seasonal flower displays and rice-terrace landscapes
• Well-established wellness scene (spas, Thai massage, meditation retreats)

• Visit major temples and witness morning alms-giving
• Take a northern Thai cooking class
• Trek or hike in nearby national parks and hill-tribe villages
• Join an ethical elephant sanctuary experience (book in advance)
• Explore night markets and street-food tours
• Cycle or e-bike around the Old City
• Zip-lining, rafting, and adventure activities in surrounding hills
• Attend a meditation or wellness retreat
• Day trips to Doi Inthanon, sticky waterfalls, and rural villages

• Yi Peng (Lantern Festival) / Loy Krathong (usually November) — iconic lantern releases and floating offerings
• Songkran (Thai New Year, mid-April) — citywide water celebrations
• Chiang Mai Flower Festival (February) — floral displays and parades
• Weekly Sunday Walking Street at Ratchadaphisek (sunday market)
• Local temple fairs and Buddhist observances throughout the year

November to early February (cool, dry, and festival season). Note: February–April can have haze from agricultural burning—expect reduced air quality some years.

Cool/dry season (Nov–Feb): daytime 20–28°C, cooler nights. Hot season (Mar–May): 30–40°C highs. Rainy season (May–Oct): frequent heavy showers, high humidity. Mountain areas are cooler year-round.

Nearest airport: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) with domestic and regional flights. Well-connected by overnight train and bus to Bangkok (train ~12–14 hrs; flight ~1 hr). Local transport: red songthaews (shared trucks), tuk-tuks, taxis, Grab (ride-hailing), scooter and bicycle rentals. Many attractions are accessible by short drives; guided day tours and private drivers are common.

3–5 days to cover major city sights and a short excursion; 7–10 days if including multiple national parks, trekking, or slower travel into hill-tribe areas.

Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees for temple visits; comfortable walking shoes; light breathable clothes for daytime; warm layer for cool nights (Nov–Jan); rain jacket/umbrella in monsoon season; sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent.

Must-try foods: khao soi (spicy coconut curry noodle), sai ua (northern sausage), nam prik ong, mango sticky rice, local cafés and specialty coffee. Souvenirs: Lanna textiles, hill-tribe handicrafts, silverware, ceramics, and traditional Bo Sang umbrellas.