Funviralpark I have had the pleasure of spending a few months in Chiang Mai over the years and have gotten to know it better. The best time to go is between October and he-April when the temperature drops a bit (but it never really gets cold). dead crops. Especially he November is the best time to visit. It’s the time of year for the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival, when thousands of paper lanterns are lit and released into the sky.
Here’s what you should do whenever you go.
enjoy your meal
Thailand has some of the best food in the world, and Chiang Mai in particular is famous for its restaurant scene. The food scene here has a wide selection of both Thai and international dishes, so no matter how long you stay, you’ll never run out of goodies.
For a great example of Thai cuisine, head downtown to Lert Ros. Here you must order a plate of fish, shrimp, papaya salad and grilled beef or pork. For a few street cart options, check out the Chang Phueak Gate Night Market. You can sample a wide variety of dishes.
see what a watt is
“Wat” is the Thai word for Buddhist temple, and Chiang Mai has the most in Thailand, about 300 in total. These tranquil architectural masterpieces are literally everywhere, and you’ll always come across them. Downtown’s must-sees are the 600-year-old Chedi Luang and Phra Singh. A short motorbike or taxi ride into the hills outside the city reveals Phra That Doi Suthep, a beautiful complex nestled in the forest.
Please note that there is a dress code when visiting most wats. Tank tops are not allowed as shoulders must be covered. Short shorts and skirts should also be avoided, as the knees must also be covered.In some cases, wrapped or loose pants are sold outside the temple for those who arrive with too much skin.
get a massage
Thailand is a land of great massages, hence the term “Thai Massage”. Not surprisingly, Chiang Mai has plenty of great massage opportunities.
Located near the northern end of Old Town, Lull & Chill is my go-to store. The prices are good, the atmosphere is calm and most importantly the quality of the massage is excellent. Plus, its convenient location near Chang Phueak Gate Night Market makes it a great place to stop for a massage before browsing the food carts.
go bar hopping
Chiang Mai has a thriving bar scene that can easily be enjoyed until late at night. With lively bars everywhere, you won’t have a hard time finding it.
Some recommendations to start include White Rabbit or Archer’s if you’re within the old city walls, or Caravan Bar or Forbidden Bar if you’re in Nimman.
get out in nature
Chiang Mai is located in the forested mountains of northern Thailand and is surrounded by great outdoor opportunities. Close to town are a series of hiking trails to the Huay Kaew Waterfalls. Head two hours west to the vast hiking area of Doi Inthanon National Park. About an hour north is Chiang Mai’s famous Sticky Waterfall, and a short drive west is Elephant Natural Park, where you can meet rescued elephants.
There are shuttles to get to each of these, but the easiest way to get anywhere is by motorbike. A scooter is good enough for adventures close to town, but if you want to head further into the mountains you’ll need a more powerful bike. is recommended.
shopping at the market
Chiang Mai, like almost all cities in Thailand, is full of great markets. These range from local wet markets where you can buy produce and protein, to low cost clothing and handicraft markets, to trendy farmers markets.
Perhaps the best market is the Jin Jai Farmers Market, where you can find clothing, food, leather goods, coffee and other goodies. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is also recommended. Here you’ll find a wide selection of inexpensive clothing and jewellery, as well as a lively Food He Court that often features live music.
nice place to stay
There are many accommodation options in town. If you are looking for a luxury hotel in Chiang Mai, he one of the best is the Rachamankha Boutique Hotel. If you’re into hostels, the Common Hostel offers a comfortable stay in a central location, with nice common areas to mingle with other travelers. If you are looking for a regular apartment for long term comfort, Unique Condo Nimman has solid suites, bike parking, pool and gym. We are also conveniently located near the MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center.
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