---
title: "Chiang Mai"
description: "Temples, mountains and night markets in Thailand's laid-back northern capital."
url: https://bestofthailand.org/guide/chiang-mai
locale: en
---

# Chiang Mai

Temples, mountains and night markets in Thailand's laid-back northern capital.

![Chiang Mai](https://bestofthailand.org/images/guide-chiang-mai.jpg)

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.

## Keep reading

**[Bangkok](https://bestofthailand.org/guide/bangkok)** — The complete guide to Thailand's capital: where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

**[Phuket](https://bestofthailand.org/guide/phuket)** — Thailand's biggest island: beach-by-beach guide, old town charm and island-hopping bases.

**[Pattaya](https://bestofthailand.org/guide/pattaya)** — Beaches, water sports and big-city amenities two hours from Bangkok.