Chiang Mai
Temples, mountains and night markets in Thailand's laid-back northern capital.
Chiang Mai wraps 700 years of Lanna history inside a moated old town with more than 30 temples. Climb to Doi Suthep at sunrise, learn to cook khao soi, and spend Sunday evening at the walking-street market. The surrounding mountains offer elephant sanctuaries, hill-tribe treks and Thailand's best coffee farms. Cool season (November–February) is ideal; avoid the burning season haze in March and April.