Chiang Mai

Ancient temples, mountain air, and digital nomad paradise

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Daily Budget

$30-80

Suggested Stay

4-7 days

Best Time

Nov-Feb

Region

North

About

Chiang Mai is Thailand's cultural heart. A former Lanna kingdom capital surrounded by misty mountains, filled with over 300 temples, night markets, and the best food in Thailand. It's also Southeast Asia's top digital nomad hub with fast WiFi, cheap living, and incredible coffee culture.

Top Highlights

1Doi Suthep Temple - Sacred temple on the mountain with panoramic city views. 306 steps or take the cable car.
2Old City temples - Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Chiang Man all within walking distance.
3Sunday Walking Street - The best night market in Thailand. Runs along Ratchadamnoen Road from 4pm.
4Elephant Nature Park - Ethical elephant sanctuary. Book weeks ahead, full day trip worth every baht.
5Khao soi - Northern Thai coconut curry noodles. Try Khao Soi Khun Yai or Khao Soi Mae Sai.

Things to Know

•Rent a scooter (฿200-250/day) - the Old City and Nimman area are very scooter-friendly.
•Visit March-April for Songkran (Thai New Year) - epic water fights, but book accommodation months ahead.
•Burning season (Feb-Apr) brings bad air quality - check AQI before booking, bring N95 masks.
•The Old City has a moat - useful for navigation. Inside is walkable, outside needs transport.
•Nimman Road is hipster central - coffee shops, coworking spaces, and trendy restaurants.
•Monk Chat at Wat Chedi Luang - practice English with monks, fascinating cultural exchange.

Best Time to Visit

High Season

Nov - Feb (cool season, 15-28°C, mountain views)

Low Season

Mar - Apr (burning season, smoky), Jun - Oct (rainy)

Estimated daily cost

$30-80

per person, per day

🏨Accommodation

$8-35

🍜Food & Drinks

$6-20

🎫Activities

$12-25

🚕Transport

$4-10

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Estimates based on 2025 prices

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Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

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💡 Pro tip: Book directly through Agoda for best prices and instant confirmation. Prices shown are for 2026-02-10 to 2026-02-12 and may vary.

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