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Chiang Mai

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Chiang Mai (เชียงใหม่) is the hub of [wiki=2bcfc984f0a19f5268a7b2932c2607eb]Northern Thailand[/wiki] and the Capital City of the Province of this name. With a population of over 170,000 in the city proper (but more than 1 million in the metropolitan area), it is Thailand's fifth-largest city. Located on a plain at an elevation of 316 m, surrounded by mountains and lush countryside, it is much greener and quieter than the capital, and has a cosmopolitan air and a significant expat population, factors which have led many from Bangkok to settle permanently in this "Rose of the North".

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Understand
Founded in 1296 CE, Chiang Mai is a culturally and historically interesting city, at one time the capital of the ancient Lanna kingdom. Located among the rolling foothills of the Himalayan Mountains 700 km north of Bangkok, it could only be reached by an arduous river journey or an elephant trek until the 1920s. This isolation helped keep Chiang Mai's distinctive charm intact.

Chiang Mai's historical centre is the walled city (city is chiang in the northern Thai dialect while mai is new, hence Chiang Mai or New City.) Sections of the wall dating to their restoration a few decades ago remain at the gates and corners, but of the rest only the moat remains.

Inside Chiang Mai's remaining city walls are more than 30 temples dating back to the founding of the principality, in a combination of Burmese, Sri Lankan and Lanna Thai styles, decorated with beautiful wood carvings, Naga staircases, leonine and angelic guardians, gilded umbrellas and pagodas laced with gold filigree. The most famous is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, which overlooks the city from a mountainside 13 km away.

Modern-day Chiang Mai has expanded in all directions, but particularly to the east towards the Ping River (Mae Nam Ping), where Chang Klan Rd, the famous Night Bazaar and the bulk of Chiang Mai's hotels and guest houses are located. Loi Kroh Rd is the centre of the city's night life. The locals say you've not experienced Chiang Mai until you've seen the view from Doi Suthep, eaten a bowl of kao soi, and purchased an umbrella from Bo Sang. Of course this is touristic nonsense, but the Kao Soi, Bo Sang umbrellas, and Doi Suthep are important cultural icons for Chiang Mai residents. Ratchadamneon Rd hosts the main Sunday night walking street market from Tha Phae Gate to the popular Wat Phra Singh.
- Climate
  
  Chiang Mai's northern location and moderate elevation results in the city having a more temperate climate than that of much of Central, Eastern and Southern Thailand. Chiang Mai has a tropical wet and dry climate, tempered by the low latitude and moderate elevation, with warm to hot weather year-round, though nighttime conditions during the dry season can be cool and are much lower than daytime highs. The maximum temperature ever recorded is 42.4 °C (108.3 °F) in May 2005. As with the rest of Thailand there are three seasons.
  
  * A cool/dry season from mid Oct-mid Feb (it's really only cool at night, and a few days here and there in Dec/Jan)
  * A hot season from mid Feb-mid Jun (hot, hot, hot)
  * A wet season from mid Jun-mid Oct (hot and wet, though cooler than the hot season, clouds and the occasional downpour help cool things off)
  
  However, note that it can be hot in the cool season (during the day), wet in the cool/dry season (though days go by without rain, it is not unheard of), and dry (and hot) in the wet season. One nice thing about the wet season is that the prevalence of clouds can moderate the heat.
Get in
- By plane
  
  [url=http://chiangmaiairportthai.com/]Chiang Mai International Airport[/url] (CNX) handles both domestic and regional international flights. The route from Bangkok is one of the busiest in the country (Thai Airways flies daily almost every hour, with additional flights in the peak tourist season). Other airlines operating direct services from/to Chiang Mai include:
- By train
  
  Services from Bangkok's [wiki=dcdac175b7bc999649da8340076e2fec]url=http://wikitravel.org/en/Bangkok (By_train)[/wiki]]leave on a regular daily schedule [url=http://www.railway.co.th/English/Time_HTML.asp[/url]]and take 14-16 hours to reach Chiang Mai. If you go by night train (recommended), try to choose one which arrives late to get an opportunity to see the landscapes. They are really impressive, with bridges, forest, villages and fields.
  
  Daytime services leave at 08:30, and 14:30 with second-class (281 baht) and third-class (121 baht) carriages. The seats in each class differ in softness and width and become uncomfortable after 10+ hours.
  
  Overnight sleepers provide comfortable bunks with clean sheets and pillows in first- and second-class. First-class beds (~1,400 baht) are in private two-bed compartments; in some trains first class compartments have only one berth and cost 500 baht more than usual, and whole compartments can be booked for single occupancy for the same amount. In second-class (~900 baht), the carriages are open but each bunk has a curtain for privacy. First-class is always air-con, second class is sometimes air-con. There are usually four trains per day with sleeper accommodation, though only two of these will have first-class compartments. Station staff will be able to help you.
  
  Carriages are kept clean; the toilet and floors are regularly mopped during the journey. Vendors make regular rounds selling snacks, drinks and lacklustre meals. Vendors will try to inflate the prices for tourists so be prepared to get ripped off, haggle, hop off quickly at stations or bring your own. Since 2015 State Railways of Thailand stopped selling alcoholic beverages on all trains, but you can still bring your own supply.
  
  In second-class, the bunks are folded away leaving pairs of facing seats. At some point in the evening, or on request, they get flipped down into bunks and made up into beds. In first-class, the bottom bunk is used as a bench seat before having a futon mattress deployed onto it in the evening.
  
  If you're not in the mood for bed when your carriage mates are bedding down, you can head off to the dining car, which provides fairly good food and drink at not too great a premium. Later in the night, the dining car can turn into a disco, complete with loud music and flashing lights.
  
  Tickets can be bought up to 60 days in advance at any station in Thailand. Booking in advance is advised, especially for the popular 2nd-class overnight sleepers. Larger stations accept payment with Visa/MasterCard. This is fairly safe, as SRT is a state-owned company. The online e-ticket service was discontinued February 14, 2013, and tickets must now be obtained at the stations, though you can still check availability on-line. Since February 2015 trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai can be booked online again even more than 60 days in advance.
  
  SRT has rules set for the advance booking based mostly on the percentage of the whole trip. Like, say, Chiang Mai - Bangkok tickets can be bought 60 days in advance, Chiang Mai - Phitsanulok or Sukhothai would be 30 days, while Ayutthaya is still 60 days (because its over half of the trip). This is because Railways tries to fill long-haul passengers first (consequently making more money). This has to be taken into consideration when planning trips from Chiang Mai - as trains are usually quite full, especially during high season (Sep-Mar).
  
  1st and 2nd class air-con sleeper tickets are 150-200 baht more expensive than fan-only car tickets. Various travel agencies, some available to contact from outside Thailand, can also procure tickets for delivery or pick up, with fees typically starting at 200 baht. If at the train station they said that at train is sold out, try the small agencies, they may still find you a ticket (although unlikely because ticket is usually issued for a name and passport number). Be aware of 'scalping' and do not pay ridiculously high prices.
  
  SRT charges 90 baht to transport a bicycle between [[Bangkok[/url]] and Chiang Mai.
  
  Chiang Mai train station is about 3 km east of the city centre. Plentiful songthaews and tuk-tuks await each train's arrival. If you want to walk, exit the station, cross the open square in front and turn left on the first major road you come to (Charoen Muang Rd); this road goes directly to city centre.
  
  Last time advice: the air conditioning can be very powerful. Don't forget to bring a jacket with you or you are going to spend a bad night.
- Timetables and ticketing options
  
  [url=http://timetable.asia/en/th/chiang-mai]Trainsport Timetables[/url] - completes most of the departure times and trip duration to and from Chiang Mai.
  
  [url=https://12go.asia/en/travel/bangkok/chiang-mai]12Go[/url] - all departures Bangkok Chiang Mai with seating, comfort information and availability
Get around
Chiang Mai did have a nice new large air conditioned bus service. These were all over the major city routes but have been discontinued. There are pedicabs called samlor; the 3-wheeled tuk-tuk; and the most popular, the songthaew. Thailand's road fatality rate is the second highest in the world - if you wouldn't ride in a vehicle without a seat belt - you should do the same in Thailand. That means using a taxi - somewhat more inconvenient, more expensive but definitely safer. In groups of 4 or more, taxis are competitive and with luggage a necessity. (see the taxi section below)
- By Local Bus
  
  There are newly introduced local bus in Chiang Mai. The most useful bus for visitors are B1 and B2. Both white coloured bus stationed at main road in between Bus Station Chiang Mai and Arcade Bus Station. Bus B1 route is Bus Station - Chiang Mai Railway Station - Thaphae Gate - Zoo and vice versa. Bus B2 route is Bus Station - Thaphae Gate - Chiang Mai Airport and vice versa. Both pass by Wororot Market. The minimum fare is B15.
- By songthaew
  
  In lieu of a local bus service, locals get around the city on songthaew (สองแถว). These covered pick-up trucks have two long bench seats in the back (songthaew means "two rows" in Thai), and travel fixed routes picking up passengers en route who are going the same way. Some can also be hired outright.
  
  The colour of the songthaew indicates its general route or usage. Most common by far are red songthaews (called rod daeng, red truck), which don't follow a specific route and roam the main streets around markets, temples, or the bus/train stations. These are the most convenient to take if you are going somewhere specific. Prices must be negotiated. but expect 20 baht anywhere within the city walls and 40-60 baht outside. However, most drivers will initially quote tourists prices of 100 baht for locations outside the city walls, locals will pay up to 40 baht for the same journey. Because of the city's somewhat irrational road design, especially inside the old walls, the driver may be forced to take a circuitous route to get to a nearby destination, but it will make no difference in the fare.
  
  Fixed route songthaews congregate around Warorot Market. From Warorot Market, white songthaews travel to the eastern suburban city of Sankampaeng, yellow songthaews travel to Mae Rim in the north, blue songthaews travel to Sarapee and Lamphun in the south, and green songthaews travel to Mae Jo in the northeast. They all charge a 20 baht flat rate.
  
  From Pratu Chiang Mai Market, songthaews also travel to Hang Dong (20 baht) and San Patong, southwest of Chiang Mai.
  
  From Songthaew to Taxi
  Any of the Red songthaew (rod daeng) can give you taxi service if you ask for it. Then you sit up front, with AC if it's on, and go direct to your destination. This is going to cost you more than 20 bhat but you can often negotiate a fare that's less than a taxi (150 bhat one way in the city). If you stay is short, at the dentist for example, the driver will wait and bring you back. Also, taxis don't cruse the streets so they can be hard to find, songthaew are always around.
  
  To catch a songthaew; approach a waiting driver or flag one down on the street, state your destination and if the driver is going that direction he will nod in agreement and give you a price. Negotiate a lower fare if you wish. The price agreed to should be per person; it's a good idea to confirm this with the driver before you leave. On reaching your destination, ring the buzzer on the roof to tell the driver to stop, or most likely the driver will pull over, wait for you to get out and pay.
- By tuk-tuk or samlor
  
  Tuk-tuks are a quick, though noisy way to get around. Fares are usually 40-50 baht for a short hop and 50-100 baht for longer distances, depending on the proficiency of your bargaining. As a guide, expect to pay 50-100 baht from the old city to the riverside and Night Bazaar, the railway station, and 100-150 baht to the bus station or airport. Tuk-tuks parked near the bus and train stations will ask you for something like 120-150 baht. Just haggle or walk away to the nearest road and stop a passing tuk-tuk or songthaew there.
  
  According to expats, the highest fee for a tuk-tuk at any time of day or night should be 150 baht for any location in town. Well, "any location in town" needs to be better defined. If you are trying to go from the Zoo to the Arcade Bus Station, good luck with that. The point is, Tuk Tuks tend to charge more. Find a Rot Daeng (red truck) or other color if you are not in a hurry and want to pay less (and perhaps go farther).
  
  The fee seems to be based on multiples of 20 baht which is the smallest note. It is a good idea to stock up on notes and coins as whenever you offer a note higher than the agreed fee the driver may have no change! True indeed.
  
  Some Tuk Tuks will have signs indicating they can be hired at an hourly or daily rate. This is far more economical and the drivers are happy to hang out in their tuk tuk waiting for the riders to visit wherever they want to go.
  
  A few samlor (three-wheeled bicycles) still cruise the streets and will happily take you to a temple for the same price as a tuk-tuk, though at a considerably quieter and slower pace. Mostly these are used by local elderly for trips to the market. Quite charming.
  
  Note that in many cases a Taxi is the same price (or less) than a Tuk Tuk.
- By taxi
  
  There are several taxi companies in Chiangmai. Taxis do not cruse the streets - you find them at the airport, railway station, bus station and hotels. If you have luggage, you will probably take a taxi when you arrive - ask the driver for his phone number - then call 20 minutes before you need a ride..
  
  One service advertises a fare of 150 bhat to destinations around the old city - higher fares outside of the city. If you have 4 people in your party this is a good rate. Late at night transportation is hard to find, so carry several taxi numbers with you.
  Tuk Tuks are around at night but I don't consider them safe (no seat belts, no doors) or comfortable (noisy, cold) be safe, call a taxi.
- By motorbike or motorcycle
  
  A motorbike is a convenient and cheap way to get around town or reach the outlying sights. There are an abundance of nearly indistinguishable rental outfits in town, and most guest houses can arrange rentals. Automatic 110cc and 125cc bikes capable of carrying two people are the easiest to jump on and ride away with if you don't have riding experience, but off-road bikes and larger street bikes are also an option. A valid international drivers licence isn't required to rent.
  
  Motorbikes run about 150 baht/day for a 110cc motorbike and 150+ baht/day for a Honda Wave 125; supplied with helmets and a security chain. If you rent longer term, e.g., by the month, those rates can be as low as 2,400 to 2,700 baht per month, averaging 80-90 baht per day. Several dealers will agree to these rates. Currently a Honda PCX rents for 500-600 baht per day in the city centre. Monthly rates may lower the daily average.
  
  Larger machines cost 700 baht/day for a V-twin chopper or larger sport-bike. Expect discounts when renting for a week, month, or longer.
  
  Rentals will require a deposit (generally prudent opinion would say that while many ask for a passport you should under no circumstances leave your passport [with anyone] as collateral). It is recommended that you use your discretion to make this assessment as reputable vendors will cause no problems leaving the passport for a month each time. It is therefore better to rent the bike through a hotel, for added secure and witness if there is problem with the returning of passport later. Also, most vendor associated with the hotel will deliver and collect the bike at the hotel - saving time and effort of searching for one in the city. Remember that if you want to leave the country you will need the passport; and that you must ALWAYS carry a photocopy of the passport and visa/entry stamp pages. In this case an additional photo ID isn't a bad idea. Most shops will accept a photocopy with a cash deposit of around 3,000-5,000 baht. This is a much better alternative. While the petrol/gas tank may be full on pick-up, it is not uncommon for shops to deliver a bike with just enough fuel to go make it to a service station. In any case, return the bike with as much or more fuel than received to avoid any penalties. Also check out the relative mechanical merit of the bike being offered. Focus especially on the brakes, the degree of "pull" needed for the handlebar lever, and the travel needed for the foot brake. Check that indicators and headlights work properly, and the tires are reasonably OK.
  
  Some rental agreements claim to insure you but generally only cover the bike for theft or damage. Don't expect much in the way of compensation if something bad such as an accident occurs. Regardless of who is at fault, assume that you will be considered the guilty party.
  
  The police frequently fine riders (including passengers) 500 baht (some officers will allow you to pay 100 or 200 baht on the spot "to avoid paperwork and travelling to the station, etc.") for not wearing a helmet, plus you usually have to go to the police station the next day to collect your licence.
  
  Most of these rental bike are obvious as their license plates are different from the locally own ones. Many police will not stop to check or verify documents unless it is near the end of month or near major festival as they need 'extra cash' for the family.
- By bicycle
  
  Traffic inside the old city walls is subdued enough to make biking a quick way to get around. Bike rentals are plentiful; rental costs 50 -250 baht/day depending on the bike quality. Few companies provide bicycle helmets - if you plan to ride a bicycle be safe and bring your own helmet. There are many potholes in Chiangmai streets so stay alert for obstacles, not to mention dogs that might chase you down small alleys. Keep to the left (not intuitive for North American/European cyclists). Also, realize you do not have the right of way, so asserting that could end in tears.
- By car
  
  Car hire services are available both in the city centre and at the airport. Cars typically offered include the Toyota Vios, Altis, and Yaris, and the Honda City and Jazz. Typical rates for newer models are 900-2,000 baht per day, depending on season and model. Expect a slight discount when renting weekly. Utility pickups such as the Toyota Hilux or Fortuner SUV are also available. Many places offer minivans such as 10-seat Toyota Commuters with a driver from about 2,000 baht per day plus fuel. Older Suzuki Carribean 4WDs are a cheaper option at around 600-800 baht per day, but they are relatively difficult to drive and less mechanically reliable than a standard passenger car.
  
  Some car rental companies in Chiang Mai:
  
  *Chiang Mai Alpha Car Rental 18/2 ถนนสันติธรรม, อ.เมือง จ. เชียงใหม่, 50300 Chiang Mai Tel +66 85 714 4045
  
  *Avis 60/27 Chaing Mai Airport. Tel. +66 53 201 7989
  
  *Budget 201/2 Mahidol Rd, Haiya, Muang. Tel. +66 53 202 8712
  
  *
  
  *
  
  * Chiang Mai Airport, Sanambin Road, Moo.3,Suthep 50200 Chiang Mai.
  
  *Thai Rent-a-Car Chiang Mai Airport, 60 Airport Rd, Suthep District. 1st Floor Domestic Arrival Hall (Exit 1). Tel. +66 53 904 188
- On foot
  
  The old city is only a mile square, (say, 2.5 sq km) and as such is easy to walk around. The airport is also quite close to the old part of town--about 2.5 km--so if you have the energy and an hour to spare, you can even walk to and from the airport. Note that this is not necessarily a pleasant experience as the sidewalks are uneven (or non-existent) and Chiang Mai gets hot during the day, especially during the hot season, and rainy during the rainy season. The cost of a taxi or songthaew from the moat area to the airport is around 150 baht.
- Hiring a car or minivan with driver
  
  This is is a great option for travelling to places outside Chiang Mai city, and the price is often similar to hiring a car and driving yourself. You'll also be able to relax and enjoy the scenery in air-conditioned comfort. The cost for a private car with driver is generally from 1,500 to 2,000 baht per day plus fuel depending on the type of vehicle and where you are going. The driver will typically pick you up with a full tank of fuel and you pay at the end. Large Toyota Hi-Ace, Nissan Urvan and newer Toyota Commuter minivans go for around 2,000 to 2,500 baht per day plus fuel. Most hotels and some guest houses can arrange it for you, in addition to vehicle rental outlets and the many travel agencies in town.
- Tours
  
  There are many tours that will take you to places outside of the city. Travel companies, hotels and guest houses can arrange tours. Be sure to ask if the tour you are booking uses a truck or a van. Avoid trucks as they are uncomfortable (you will sit in the back on a bench seat without air conditioning) and unsafe (no seat belt). If your agent can't tell you, try another company. The car or van option above is better and just as cheap if you have a group.
See
- Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
  
  The quintessential image of Chiang Mai with its large gold-plated chedi, visible from the city on a clear day, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep (วัดพระธาตุดอยสุเทพ, Huai Kaeo Rd, 30 baht, [url=http://www.doisuthep.com/index.php?lang=en])]is 18 km from town, sitting at a 1,073 m elevation on the slopes of Doi (Mount) Suthep. Built in 1383 during the Lanna Thai period, legend has it that the temples site was selected by an elephant sent to roam the mountain side, where upon reaching a suitable spot, it trumpeted, circled three times, knelt down and promptly died, which was interpreted as a sign indicating an auspicious site. The temple offers grand views over the city, but no reward is without effort as you must ascend the 300-plus steps of the Naga-lined stairs. The climb may be a strain in the high altitude's thin air for the less fit, so you may opt to take the cable car for 20 baht. For the [url=http://chiangmaibest.com/thai-holidays-festivals/visaka-bucha/]Visaka Bucha holiday[/url[/url] in June or July each year, it is traditional for people to walk from the zoo to the temple and vast numbers make the pilgrimage to the top, which takes around 4-5 hours.
  
  In the vicinity there are several other attractions you may want to consider visiting. The Bhuping Royal Palace Gardens are 4 km further along the road from Wat Prathat, with a reasonably easy walk along the meter-wide road shoulder. Or you can get a shared songthaew from Wat Prathat for 30 baht, but you may have to wait until it fills up. Further along the road is a hill tribe village, and although tourist-oriented, is really worth the trip. There are many shops for local handicrafts, etc. These are the people from the far north of the country, many originally from Myanmar. There are two areas in the village that require entrance fee: 10 baht to enter a flower garden (where women can take pictures using traditional clothes) and a hill tribe opium museum (the museum is in a very poor condition); and 10 baht to enter the hill tribe waterfall (man-made).
  
  Getting there is a source of much consternation to many travellers. Clearly marked songthaews leave from Pratu Chang Phuak. Prices are fixed at 50 baht up and 50 baht down; but the drivers wait until they have sufficient (up to 8) passengers before they depart, potentially making for a lengthy wait. Most guidebooks advise taking a songthaew from Mani Nopharat Rd, resulting in the drivers milking the tourist cash-cow and raising their price from a reasonable 50 baht to a ludicrous 500 baht.
  
  Another option is to take a songthaew from your hotel to Chiang Mai Zoo for 20 baht (if you are close to the city walls), where there will be several songthaews waiting on Huai Kaeo Rd to get a full load of passengers for a trip up the mountain. They seem to congregate around the Chiang Mai Zoo, so if you just say "zoo" to the driver he will know what you're talking about. From the zoo prices range from 40 baht for a one-way trip to Wat Prathat to 180 baht for a full round-trip tour, including the temple, Bhuping Palace Gardens, and the the hill tribe village, with an hour at each location, but you may have to wait until there are sufficient people who want the same tour or be prepared to pay more. You can also get between many of these by buying point-to-point tickets at the time you want them, or walking some segment. Any songthaew up the mountain road may be a trial for those prone to motion-sickness, so take appropriate precautions.
  
  There are several little annoying charges to pay for foreigners. To enter the Doi Suthep itself is free for Thais, and 30 baht for foreigners. Tour operators will ask 700 baht for a tour. You can easily walk up the stairs to the temple but many visitors are encouraged to take the cable car. The cable car ride is short about 5 mins and inside a metal sheet tunnel - therefore no view at all.
  
  The journey from town can be made by motorcycle or a bicycle with appropriate gearing. The final 12 km from the zoo onwards is entirely uphill and will take 60-90 minutes if cycling. Road condition is good but the winding and steep road require some driving and riding experiences.
- Other temples
  
  There are more than 300 temples in Chiang Mai and its outskirts, with a dozen stand-outs of historical or architectural significance within walking distance of each other. Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai exhibit a mixture of Lanna Thai, Burmese, Sri Lankan and Mon architectural styles that reflect the varied heritage of Northern Thailand.
  
  Though certain temples on the conventional tourist circuit can be overrun with loud groups it is not hard to find many less well-known, but no less interesting, temples quietly and gently crumbling in the absence of tourist hordes. Whichever you visit, keep in mind that the temples are sacred religious places of deep cultural significance for the locals. Show respect by wearing appropriate attire (long pants for men, modest tops and skirts for women, no bare shoulders or plunging necklines and women must wear a bra). You must take off your shoes before entering the temple or other buildings, but they may be worn in the courtyard. Taking photographs of Buddha images is no problem, but it is polite to ask before taking pictures of monks or locals. All temples are free.
- Museums
  
  There are many art galleries and exhibitions in Chiang Mai, featuring contemporary artwork of both local Thai and Myanmar artists.
  
  * This fully modernised multimedia history and cultural education centre has guides dressed in elegant traditional Thai clothing who will usher you into an air-conditioned room to watch an English-subtitled orientation video about Chiang Mai and the north. Next, you will be pointed to a series of rooms documenting the region's history and culture in chronological order from the pre-Muang period (7,000-12,000 years ago) to the early river civilizations, to the early kings through the wars with the Burmese and the last dynasty, to the city today and its plans for the future. Other rooms are devoted to Buddhism and other regional beliefs, agricultural history, hill tribe peoples and other regional cultures, and a run-down of the royal dynasties. The exhibits consist of a smart visual mix of video, scale models, enlarged photos, wall murals and text in Thai and English.
  
  * Offers an insight into the history of Chiang Mai.
  
  *
  
  * There are exhibitions by undergraduates from the Fine Arts Department at Chiang Mai University. These change often and the standard of work on display by the students is of a high standard. Each month there is usually at least one art exhibition featuring the works of artists from Southeast Asia. The museum also hosts musical concerts - often free - in the adjoining theatre.
  
  * One of Asia's most unusual museums housing butterflies, beetles, and beyond. Also has a large selection of minerals. Some explanations in English, some in Thai.
  
  *
  
  * Illusion art museum where you can get take funny photos in "3D" scenes.
- Gardens and nature
  
  A serene place of history and remembrance.
  
  * Extremely popular with Thai tourists, and so expect long queues. While better than some zoos, the animals are nevertheless kept in small enclosures. Operates an unpleasant dual pricing system whereby non-Thais are charged approximately double the price of Thai nationals. Additional charges also apply for both the panda exhibition and the aquarium. There are more stalls selling the usual trinkets than enclosures, and more human visitors than animals. Not much to recommend, including that the journey from the city centre can be lengthy because of long queues of cars, the dual pricing system, and the less-than-ideal conditions for the animals. The car parking facilities are best described as chaotic.
  
  * Set in the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. The path winds up for almost 2 km to the 8 tiers of cascades. There are many secluded areas off the trail for picnics. Crowded on weekends and holidays.
  
  * This royal winter palace has lavishly landscaped gardens and is open to the public daily 08:30-11:30 & 13:00-15:00 when the Thai royal family is not in residence. Dress code strictly applied: dress modestly or pay 15 baht for fisherman's pants to cover your lack of it. This includes ANY leg above the ankle for either gender). The palace itself (built in 1961) is not particularly exciting, but the extensive gardens are picturesque with some amazing plant life, including carefully curated tropical flowers, as well as centuries-old trees and giant bamboo. A sign at the bottom of the hill near the zoo indicates when it's closed. It is close to Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, so travel directions are similar.
  
  * Thailand's oldest and foremost botanical garden. Dedicated to the conservation of Thai flora, it holds collections of, and carries out research on rare and endangered species. Lovely gardens in a mountain foothills setting. Run by the Botanical Garden Association, Thailand.
  
  * A big garden with loads of pretty flowers like orchids. Also has a temple, a (rather worn out) playground for kids, and a bug museum
- Elephants
  
  It is extremely important to well research your elephant tour. Some tours offer twice the service as others and at the same price. Expect private time with elephants, bathing elephants in a river and feeding them, free lunch, transport to and from your hotel, an elephant ride through the jungle and a small training course on some basic commands. Most tour operators also offer rafting as well at the end of the experience.
  
  While a source of great amusement, be sure to choose your tour responsibly. Some have reported elephants in distress and what looked like painful, horrible conditions for the animals. Ask other tourists and check online before choosing. It is important to understand that elephants are considered livestock under Thai law, and as such owners can treat them in any way they please. This often includes beating, stabbing, or blinding them, as well as putting them through the ritual "phajaan," which intends to break the spirit of the elephant. Elephants generally will not accept riders on the trekking seat unless they have undergone the phajaan. It is encouraged that visitors do their own research to draw their own conclusions. A good, although not foolproof, sign for spotting elephant mistreatment is holes in or pieces missing from the ear.
  
  * Aside from being one of the cheapest places to appreciate these wonderful animals in Chiang Mai, Baanchang treats these animals extremely well and the love and care displayed by Mahouts (elephant caretakers) contrasts markedly with that displayed at many other local elephant 'camps'. For those who stay overnight, the hosts host a night by the campfire putting on rural entertainment such as making sticky rice in bamboo and releasing fire lanterns into the night sky during the months from November to January. A true gem of Chiang Mai which can be accessed from many of the local hotels and hostels.
  
  * Situated in a beautiful valley, the Chai Lai Orchid is a non-profit riverside eco-lodge that offers unique, ethical elephant experiences, 1-2 day treks and day trips from Chiang Mai. Guests are invited to feed, bathe and play with the elephants in gorgeous surroundings, saving them from giving metal chair rides at the adjacent elephant camp. The project also supports local hill tribes by running an employment and education program to help combat the human trafficking of migrants from Burma.
  
  * One of the interesting activities in Chiang Mai is getting close to a real elephant. Eddy is the owner who takes care of his 7 orphan elephants from generation to generation. He ensures you will enjoy the private tour. You will learn about elephant behaviours and also you will learn how to control and bathe them as you are a mahout (elephant caretaker). You will be able to ride them through the jungle. The elephants are not inside a park, not inside a camp nor a farm. This is a group of elephant owners who care for them at home as if they were part of their family.
  
  * Approximately 60 km north of Chiang Mai is a sanctuary for rescued and distressed elephants. They are not here to perform or do tricks and people visiting here will leave with a whole new understanding of these magnificent creatures. Day and overnight visits as well as one week volunteering opportunities can be booked via their website. During the day visit you will feed and bathe the elephants, watch them wander around the 50 acre sanctuary, and will be provided with a buffet lunch. They will also pick and drop you off at your hotel in Chiang Mai. This park seeks to prove that free elephants are a viable alternative form of tourism to beating and training elephants to accept riders.
  
  * After a two day orientation, in the city of Chiang Mai, coordinating staff sends volunteers to the elephant camp, roughly a one hour drive from the city. Volunteers stay from Monday to Friday bathing, feed and taking care of, and learning about elephants. Lodging is in a treehouse on the premises. Two week minimum.
  
  * An elephant camp in the hills about an hour's drive north of the city centre. It has an elephant show, which includes elephants playing football and painting. You can also take half hour or one hour elephant rides. Not exactly a place to bring someone who cares about animal welfare, but many (people) do enjoy the performances. Show times are 08:00, 09:40, and 13:30.
- Hilltribe villages
  
  There are around 12 different hilltribe groups in Thailand, most of which live in northern Thailand and play an important part in the cultural tapestry. Visiting hilltribe villages as part of a trek or tour, is a popular activity in Chiang Mai although most within 1-2days travel of Chiang Mai are likely to be touristic. So if you're seeking an authentic experience, it's important to research properly the right tour for you, and the right way to visit. Many villagers are not so welcoming towards visitors nowadays, as they have had negative experiences with tourists in the past.
  
  * Offers responsible tours around northern Thailand, specialising in cultural immmersion, visiting authentic hilltribe villages and hilltribe homestays in an ethical way
- Muay Thai
  
  After football, Thai boxing is the national sport of Thailand. It can be seen in three different stadiums:
  * Real Muay Thai fights every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday starting at 9:30PM lasting about 4 hours.
  
  * Fights are usually held 3-4 nights per week. Look for flyers posted up all over the old city. They usually have about 8 fights and feature Thai fighters as well as a few matches with foreign fighters. This may not be the best location to see muay Thai with a family, as it is surrounded by "girlie bars" and during a break between the fights a group of ladyboys will put on a dance and occasionally strip. After about 23:00 the complex is opened up for free, letting all the vendors (flower sellers, et al.) in. If you are on a tight budget you may be able to see a few of the remaining fights for free this way.
  
  * It hosts around 8 fights per show, including a few matches with foreign fighters. This is the largest of the three stadiums and has food as well as beverages served. Gambling is prominently featured.
Do
There are a number of mountain biking trails in Chiang Mai, many of which located on Doi Suthep which is the large mountain overlooking Chiang Mai city. If you have your own mountain bike you can take a Songteaw from Huai Kaeo Aboretum to one of the many drop off points on the mountain, or a cycling tour company can provide transportation and bike hire. the price of a Songtaew varies but expect to pay 400-500THB, a Songteaw can carry up to 4 bikes so it works out cheaper in a group. Cycling trails range from beginner to pro with a number of XC trails or pure downhill trails. The trails are generally very well maintained and popular among visitors to Chiang Mai and locals.

*Variety of mountain bike tours out of Chiang Mai and surrounding areas
- Cinema
  
  Screens French films, but frequently sub-titled in English. See the website for calendar of showings. The Alliance also has an extensive library as well as exhibitions.
  
  * The ticket prices vary depending on the duration of the film. The place is not very popular among the locals since it is a bit old and worn. No digital or 3D films shown at Vista.
  
  * Ticket prices around 120-260 depending on the duration of the film and seat type. Honeymoon seats generally cost 40 baht more than standard seats.
  
  * Ticket prices around 120-260 depending on the duration of the film and seat type. Honeymoon seats generally cost 40 baht more than standard seats. There is also IMAX and DFX screens at CentralFestival with higher prices.
  
  * Ticket prices around 120-260 depending on the duration of the film and seat type. Honeymoon seats generally cost 40 baht more than standard seats.
  
  If you would like to avoid the crowd, avoid going on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday nights. Make sure to check the language of the film prior to booking. Some movies are dubbed into Thai, some with Thai subtitles, look for (TH) vs. (EN/TH) on the listing. Tickets can be purchased online with seating choices.
- Festivals & exhibitions
  
  Takes place 15-17 January 2016 at Ban Bo Sang, Sankampang. The festival is in the form of a "street fair" in which the central road of the village is used, with shops on both sides. Shops are decorated in Lanna-style, most with the well-known umbrellas, as well as with traditional lanterns. In addition there are contests, exhibitions, cultural performances, local entertainment and assorted shows day and night. There is a grand procession decorated with umbrellas and local products, a variety of handicrafts for sale, northern-style khantoke meals, and the Miss Bo Sang pageant.
  
  * Staged every year during the first weekend in February (7-9 February in 2014). The city is awash with vibrant colous ranging from the electric orange and lilac colours of the bougainvillea to the velvety blossoms of petunias in all shades of pink, white and purple. The strident red of the poinsettias, bought by many at Christmas and New Year, is echoed by beds of scarlet salvias. Homes and shop owners alike line the city streets with colourful flower boxes. The sheer profusion of colour that the flower festival and carnival brings to Chiang Mai aptly gives the city its name "Rose of the North". On all three days of the festival, prize blooms are on display at Suan Buak Haad at the Southwest corner inside the moat of the old city. Many types of flower, miniature trees, and orchids are put on display for the judges to choose the best of the species. Landscape specialists put on an elaborate display, which includes patios and waterfalls with exotic decorative plants and flowers. The best part of the flower festival is on Saturday. The parade lines up from the train station to Narawat Bridge so the police close most of Jarenmuang Rd around 08:00. The VIP viewing stand is right next to the bridge in front of the Chiang Mai Governor's home. The parade route goes down Tha Phae Rd to the gate and turns left and follows the moat to Suan Buak Haad City Park. The parade moves at a slow pace and stops several times so there is plenty of time to take pictures of the colourful floats, pretty girls and hill tribe people in native costume. The paraders hand out roses to spectators lining the road. When the parade finishes everyone heads to Suan Buak Haad where all the floats, award winning flower growers and landscape projects are all on display. There are plenty of food stalls in the park, and in the late afternoon the Miss Chiang Mai Flower Festival starts. The party goes well into the evening until the new Flower Festival Queen has been chosen. This is a great time to visit Chiang Mai, as the air is cool and the evenings fresh and clear. If you want to see the festival make sure you book your hotels and flights well in advance.
  
  * Inthakin or Tham Boon Khan Dok[url=http://chiangmaibest.com/inthakin-city-pillar-festival/]]is the City Pillar Festival in Chiang Mai. This is a six-day festival where the city pillar spirits are propitiated to ensure the continuity of the city. Occurs in May or June as part of the Northern Thailand lunar calendar. Very large event focused around Wat Chedi Luang.
  
  * Loi Krathong and Yi Peng Festivals[url=http://chiangmaibest.com/loy-krathong-yee-peng/[/url]]If you like candles placed in colourful paper lanterns, fireworks, beautiful girls in traditional dress, parade floats, lots of food, and parties, don't miss the Loi Krathong festival, which in Chiang Mai lasts for 3 full days, the last night being that of the 12th full moon of the year (which is usually in November). In the small town of Mae Jo, north of Chiang Mai, they start the festival on Saturday night by simultaneously launching thousands upon thousands of hot air balloons called Khom Loy.
  
  :Loi Krathong coincides with the northern Thai (Lanna) festival known as "Yi Peng" (Thai: ยี่เป็ง). Due to a difference between the old Lanna calendar and the Thai calendar, Yi Peng is held on a full moon of the 2nd month of the Lanna calendar ("Yi" meaning "2nd" and "Peng" meaning "month" in the Lanna language). A multitude of Lanna-style sky lanterns (khom loi (Thai: โคมลอย), literally: "floating lanterns") are launched into the air where they drift with the winds. The festival is meant as a time for tham bun (Thai: ทำบุญ), to make merit. People decorate their houses, gardens, and temples with khom fai (Thai: โคมไฟ): intricately shaped paper lanterns which take on different forms. Khom thue (Thai: โคมถือ) are lanterns which are carried around hanging from a stick, khom khwaen (Thai: โคมแขวน) are the hanging lanterns, and khom pariwat (Thai: โคมปริวรรต) which are placed at temples and which revolve due to the heat of the candle inside. Chiang Mai has the most elaborate Yi Peng celebrations, where both Loi Krathong and Yi Peng are celebrated at the same time resulting in lights floating on the waters, lights hanging from trees/buildings or standing on walls, and lights floating by in the sky.
  
  * (January) is the biggest orchid fair of the year, with an orchid market, activities and more.
  
  * The Thai Water Festival is celebrated as the Thai new year from April 13-15 (though it may begin a day or two early). The most obvious sign that you're in the middle of the festival is when you get soaked by someone pouring a bucket of water over you, or squirting you with a water gun! This tradition evolved from people tossing water that had been poured over holy statues, since this water was expected to be good luck. Now, it takes the form of a free-for-all water fight, and you will undoubtedly be drenched. It's also a way of staying cool during the very hot and humid month of April. Just be sure to put your cell phone in a plastic bag!
- Massage
  
  Chiang Mai, Thailand “second city” and the “Rose of the North” may well be one of Southeast Asia’s most livable cities and has spas, health resorts, and wellness centers. It is more manageable than Bangkok, yet is home to a wide variety of health centers, not to mention parks, golf courses, mountains, and fantastic trekking.
  
  Visitors are spoilt for choice between modest retreats, boutique hotels, or full-blown wellness centers. Should your needs be more surgical, Chiang Mai has a number of top drawer medical facilities, including the highly rated, JCI-accredited Chiang Mai Ram hospital. [http://www.thailandmedtourism.com/FileUpload/MultimediaFile/130909045642638.pdf] A number of fine spa and massage establishments are located in the heart of Chiang Mai, probably within 15 minutes or so of your hotel, and include the following:
  
  * Oriental has a private massage room for oil aroma massage with air con. Professional massagers, polite and friendly staffs. You will feel comfortable and most relaxing in our place.You also can do shopping in night market walking street after massage which is available on Sunday.
  
  * Nanthikan has a great massage shop on the second floor at Somphet Market (so away from street noise) and with air con. Professional massages, great ambiance, super fun and friendly staff. You can find cheaper massages in other places, but you'll see that the extra baht here is worth every penny! Delicious tea and dried fruit are served while you wait or after the massages. Nanthika also offers personalized massage courses.
  
  * A small and very cozy massage shop close to the Iron Bridge. Clean, friendly and professional, Fah Lanna gets continuously the highest ratings in customer reviews. First customers get a gentle foot-bath with scrub and comfortable clothes to change into and after the massage they offer ginger tea and a cold towel. The decoration and the music they play are beautiful and add to the experience. After collecting 10 stamps (1 stamp per 1 hour treatment) they give a free massage. Massages here are excellent and prices are very reasonable.
  
  * A small and charming studio inside the moat with a fair and sustainable concept, located in a typical wooden Thai house. The certified staff is highly trained in the arts of ancient Thai massage therapy. The owner uses real home made cosmetics and even created her own aloe vera oil. Choose from a great variety of treatments and packages for fair prices.
  
  * Excellent staff and ambiance. Services include Thai massage (150 baht/hr), oil massage (200 baht/hr), scrubs, manicure (150 baht), pedicure (150 baht), and more. Tea and water are included.
  
  * Does professional massage in a very clean, if not downright sterile, surroundings complete with air-con, the sound of running water and gentle scents. A 45-minute foot reflexology session costs 350 baht, nearly twice the price of the competition, but is worth every satang after a long trek.
  
  * Very knowledgeable and friendly staff, and air-con. Oil, foot, and neck/shoulder massage also available.
  
  * Very clean and pleasant modern decor. The masseuses are very friendly, and provide decent, skilled massages. There is a white table in front of the shop where the masseuses often hang out when they're not working.
  
  * Very clean and well-run business, professionally run by Fern, manager-proprietor. All massages based on the Lanna, northern Thai-style, using pressure points & energy lines. Home made coconut oil and natural facial, body scrub, and wrap products. Fern also teaches massage and spa services to individuals or occasionally to small groups. Prices average, 200 baht for Thai, foot or head & shoulder massages. 250 baht for oil. Loyalty cards for regular customers, free massage after 10 visits.
- Motorcycling
  
  Motorcycle touring is a great way to explore Northern Thailand. One good half-day trip out of Chiang Mai is up and over Doi Suthep, which will take you up to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, and beyond to Doi Pui. From there some trails can lead down to the back of Huay Tung Tao, a reservoir for relaxing besides and eating fish. Careful, some of these roads are dirt, experienced motorcyclists only. More extensive touring includes the Samoeng Loop, and farther afield to Pai and Mae Hong Son, or Doi Inthanon, or Chiang Dao. If going for more than an hour or two (it is 90 minutes to Chiang Dao, and several hours around the Samoeng Loop), then consider a larger motorbike, such as a 500cc. For around town, a ride to Chiang Dao (best to overnight at Chiang Dao Nest 1), then a 125cc is fine. Don't try Pai or even the Samoeng Loop on a 125cc (esp. not with a passenger) unless very experienced (and with good kit and full face helmet).
  
  * Something Different Tour 15 Soi 5, Kotchasan Rd. (+66)53-449-600 (sdtchiangmai@hotmail.com). They offer motor bike tours (along with other types of tours). Ranging from one day to four days. You can either drive the motorbike (if you have experience) or ride as an passenger. They also give you the option to ride off road; a great way to see the country side. The staff works hard to make sure each you have the best experience possible. This tour company is one of the non-touristy companies. Each tour is small and intimate, and you will get to experience a different aspect of Thailand. They also have a guest house where you can stay. Prices range from 100 baht for a dorm with shared bathroom and 300 baht for a two person room with your own bathroom. A true gem, when it comes to tour companies.
- Rafting
  
  Raft trips down the Mae Tang River are offered by organised by several companies and can often be combined with elephant riding or mountain biking. During the dry season (Jan-Feb) water levels are relatively low with only grade 2-3 rapids, but during the rainy season (Jun-Oct) higher water levels make for a more exciting grade 4-5 trip.
  
  * Offers 10 km rafting trips that can be combined with elephant riding or ATV driving.
- Zipline canopy tours
  
  Zipline through the 1,500 year old rainforest high above the forest floor. 5 km of ziplines connect lookout platforms, lowering stations, and sky bridges, making the experience a full zipline canopy tour. After the tour you can hike up alongside the Mae Kompong Waterfall. Allow 7 hours total for the tour from pickup to drop off. Earliest collection time 05:30.
- River adventures
  
  Two hour cruise with a refreshment stop at a Thai farmer's house. Hotel pick-up.
  
  *Offers river tubing tours on the Mae Ping river lasting 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the season. Afterwards, activities such as beach volleyball, frisbee, slack lining or relaxing in a hammock, can be enjoyed at the Beach Club.
- Sport
  
  Aerobics sessions are held in the car park of Tesco Lotus on the superhighway every weekday from 17:30. The sessions are very popular and tourists or visitors to Chiang Mai are welcomed. Regular water aerobics classes, incorporating Tai Chi and yoga exercises, are held at the Centre of the Universe Swimming Pool
  
  *
  
  * Rock Climbing - Approximately 55 km east of Chiang Mai lies Crazy Horse Buttress, a 60 m, orange- and black-streaked monolith jutting out of the green Mae On farming valley. Crazy Horse boasts more than 130 bolted routes between (French system) grades 5 and 8a, which makes it an ideal destination for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Spend several days exploring every part of the crag, or just spend a day or an afternoon above ground as a break from exploring the magnificent caves of the region. Climbing guides and information are also available from Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventures [http://www.thailandclimbing.com[/url]url=http://www.chiangmaisixes.com"]hours="" price="">The north of Thailand may seem an odd place to find an international cricket tournament. Every year since 1988 more than 200 cricketers from around the world gather at Chiang Mai for the tournament. The week-long tournament for amateur players, with a sprinkling of test stars, it is held at the historic Chiang Mai Gymkhana Club, generally at the start of April.
  
  * Kiwi-run business, totally buttoned-down and professional. Bungy jumping; off-road buggies; dirt bikes; paintball; indoor drift carts; Xorb ball; sports bar and restaurant. Taxis available from Chiang Mai at 09:30, 13:00, 15:00.
  
  * Go watch the local football team, Chiang Mai FC, play at 700 Year Stadium. Further information on fixtures and kick off times can be found on the club's website:[/url].
  
  *Mountain Biking - Just west of Chiang Mai lies the beautiful Doi Suthep National Park, its summit at 1650 m, 1300 m above the valley floor. Chiang Mai Mountain Biking runs daily downhill trips and nature cross country rides see [http://mountainbikingchiangmai.com]
  
  * Table Tennis - The Chiang Mai Table Tennis Club is located at the Muang Chiang Mai Stadium complex 700 meters north of the Chang Phueak (northern) Gate. Going east on Sanamkela Road, turn left into the stadium complex. Follow the road to the left (you will go past two buildings and a skateboard park). The Table Tennis Club house has a big sign outside. It is open every day beginning around 4pm, and is open until late in the evening. There is a 25 Baht fee to play. Several good quality tables, with good flooring and lights.
  
  * Tennis - There are several places to play tennis in Chiang Mai: Gymkhana Club, Chiang Mai- Lamphun Rd [url=http://www.chiengmaigymkhana.com/index.php?md=tn];]Chiang Mai Land Village, Chiang Mai Land Rd; Imperial Chiang Mai Resort & Sports Club, 284 Moo 3, Don Kaew, Mae Rim [url=http://www.imperialhotels.com/chiangmai/[/url];]Lanna Sports Club, Chotana Rd; Palm Springs, 120 Moo 5, Mahidol Rd; and Chiang Mai Sports Complex (700 Year Stadium, Irrigation Canal Rd (Rt 121 to Mae Rim), which has 12 courts. All courts are bookable in advance and at most flood lighting makes it possible to play in the evening when it is cooler. There is an additional charge to cover the cost of electricity.
  
  * The diversity of yoga studios in Chiang Mai rounds out the image of Chiang Mai as a centre for massage training, healing and spas. Yoga studios such as Wild Rose Yoga [url=http://www.wildroseyoga.org[/url]]in the old city, Sattva Yoga north of the city [url=http://www.yogachiangmaithailand.com[/url],]Kaomai Lanna [url=http://www.kaomailanna.com/yoga/yoga_home.php[/url],]and the Spa Resort [url=http://www.thesparesorts.net/chiangmai/yoga[/url]]for residential yoga retreats all contribute to this community. For yoga teacher training programs, Wise Living Yoga Academy offers regular courses ranging from 200hr to 500hr accredited programs. Based in the beautiful countryside, they offer ashram-style living for their residential teacher training programs. [http://www.teachertraining.wiselivingyoga.com[/url].
- Swim
  
  Chiang Mai swimming pools open to the public vary in quality, cleanliness and accessibility. On balance, those pools which are operated to internationally recognised standards of water quality are those which are privately owned by foreign investors.
  
  * A huge sports complex built for the SE Asia Games, held in Chiang Mai in the early 1990s, and now a public sports and recreation centre. The pool is sanitised using chlorine.
  
  * Open to tourists and other visitors. There are 3 swimming pools and decks. A detailed map and directions in Thai and English can be printed from their website. The pool is sanitised using salt water.
  
  * Some up-market hotels such as The Orchid and the Amari Rincome Hotel on Huay Kaew Rd allow "outsiders" to use their pools on payment of a fee. Travelling time from the city centre is around 10 minutes. These are sanitised using chlorine.
  
  The sadly-missed Amari Rincome Hotel closed down last year, and the site is due to be redeveloped.
  
  * Open to the public. It has a pool deck and also has a restaurant and pool-side service. The pool is sanitised using chlorine.
  
  * A reservoir in surrounding woodlands.
  
  * The pools at the bottom of the waterfalls are not really big enough for swimming, but are a great place to cool off at the height of summer. During the dry season some of the waterfalls dry up. Head for the high ground and you will still find pools full of fresh water! There are usually quite a few students hanging out there from the nearby university, who will happily practice their English conversational skills with you.
- Food tours
  
  Chiang Mai Food Tours provides culinary tours in Chiang Mai, including Taste of the North & Old Town Chiang Mai Walk that includes the tasting of 10 or more Northern Thai menus from 6 local eateries, as well as visits to local landmarks. The tour takes about 4 hours and is available everyday except Sunday.
Learn
- Buddhism
  
  The home temple of the meditation master Achan Tong. Offers residential courses in Vipassana meditation on an on-going basis.
  
  * The International Buddhist Centre offers short and long residential courses in Vipassana meditation in English. A brand new centre, including accommodation and a vitara (chanting hall), is now open.
  
  * Offers facilities for retreats and meditation instruction. Ten day minimum stay required for introduction to Vipassana meditation techniques. English-speaking monks are available to assist foreigners. For non-native English speakers, long-term students from your home country may be available to offer translation services.
  
  * Has a meet- and-greet for tourists and monks, every M W F afternoon between 17:00 and 19:00. Also, you can sign up for a 24-hr introduction meditation retreat (they are offered on Tu).
  
  * Offers meditation courses and dharma instruction in English every Su 15:00-18:00. Open 08:30-16:00
- Shamanism
  
  Provides spiritual consultations, shamanistic initiation workshops and meditation retreats in English and Russian. An initial one-on-one consultation with Diana Manilova is required before attending any other event.
- TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
  
  TEFL certification is required for many English (as a foreign language) teaching positions in Thailand and throughout the world.
  
  * Opened in 2013, GreenTEFL offers a standard 4 week, 120 hr TEFL Certification course. Free transport.
  
  * SEE TEFL offers a standard 4 week, 120 hr TEFL Certification course. 1 Year Business Visa support.
  
  * Chiang Mai University TEFL (CMUTEFL) offers a standard 4-week, 120-hour TEFL Certification course.
- Thai boxing (Muay Thai)
  
  A gym for muay Thai and mixed martial arts. Teamquest is popular with local expats. Train with top trainers from the biggest stadia in the country. Very basic onsite accommodation also available.
- Tai Chi and Qi Gong
  
  Offers customized weekend courses for health and relaxation, especially for beginners, in Tai Chi, Qi Gong, the 18 Movements, the 8 brocates/Shaolin style, 24 Yang Form, 108 Yang Form old frame, Inner Qi Gong after grandmaster Zhi-Chang-Li and standing meditation after Grand Master Frankie Dow (Chan Kwaan Chung).
  *Every morning at 6 AM at Nuan Buak Haad Park (in the south west corner of the old city)you can join the locals for free during their Tai Chi routine.
- Thai cooking
  
  On 1.6 acres of the tranquil, landscaped grounds of a private house. The kitchen's unique design draws from professional experience and is purpose-built, and surrounded by herb and spice gardens. Offers Course A and Course B. Each is 3 days in length, 08:30-15:00. Free transport to/from hotel.
  
  * Courses include a cookbook and market tour. Time: 9:40am. - 4:00 pm. Class Size: 2-9 people
  
  * 20 minutes from downtown Chiang Mai. The organic herb and vegetable garden supplements ingredients that are purchased at the morning market. Before and/or after your day in the kitchen, you can stay overnight in their traditional Thai bamboo house.
  
  * Offers 1-2-3-4-5-day courses.
  
  * Choose any dish from more than 50 dishes on their menu. 6 dishes per day for morning class and 4 dishes for evening class. The cooking class runs every day in a house.
  
  * Well organized, your own stove, 1 teacher per 6 students, but only one group. Book at Gap's House (See sleep section). 1 or 2 day classes, 900 bath/day. They know reasonable about vegetarian cooking (not vegan), but you will have to insist (multiple times) on it.
  
  * Traditional Thai cooking instruction. Vegetarian-friendly. Restaurant and booking office located near Tha Phae Gate.
  
  * A family-run home cooking class, taught by the owner. Vegetarians and people with any kind of food restrictions welcome. Courses includes a market tour and a recipe book is provided for later use.
  
  * Traditional family run business, drawing on 10 years of restaurant experience and authentic Thai recipes handed down over 3 generations. The school is a Thai teak wood house in its own green garden with pond and resident geese, ducks. Staff are fluent in English and French as well as Thai. Market trip, recipe and certificate are included
  
  * Aon is an enthusiastic & passionate chef bringing his experience at Four Seasons and other restaurants to share his knowledge of Thai cuisine with you. His recipes are not only delicious, but with his experience in food carving he teaches you ways to present your food beautifully, all in his home under a thatch roof gazebo. Each day has 2 classes, starting at 8:30AM and 3:30PM. Free transport provided to/from hotel. Feel free to contact him anytime via phone or email for more information or to book your flavorful adventure.
  
  * Friendly and knowledgeable staff provide a course on local and traditional recipes. The course includes a market tour and provides you with the recipes for the dishes that you create.
  
  * Features a short market tour, and gifts a recipe book. Accommodates vegetarian cooking. Small classes (10 or less) and fun staff with a great sense of humor! Full-day option on the farm is 1000B and includes a short train and bike ride to a country home where you can cook in the open air. You can learn to make a different dish for each of the five courses - stir-fry, curry, soup, appetizer, and dessert. Approximately 8:30 am - 4 pm. Half-day options also offered.
  
  * Learn to cook traditional Thai food at a riverside home. Daily courses, morning and afternoon. A recipe book with colour photographs provided for each dish, suggesting many ways to prepare and serve Thai food.
  
  * Small classes, maximum 5, taught by the owner. Participants choose 5 dishes for a full day or 3 dishes for half day. Market tour and cook book included. Students eat what they cook. Vegetarians welcome.
  
  * Participants learn 5 dishes in a full day, including making curry paste from scratch 800 baht. 3-course half-day courses are available 600 baht. Market tour and cook book included. Modifications for vegetarians are easily made. Tu and Kat are excellent teachers and a lot of fun.
  
  * Northern Thai & Thai cooking classes in a very small group. Instructor is well trained from Thai culinary school and 5-star hotel in Chiang Mai.
- Thai language
  
  The AUA Thai Studies Department was established in 1985 to meet the language and cultural needs of foreigners working, visiting, or residing in Chiang Mai. Individual or group instruction.
  
  * Website has on-line application form and FAQ, offers both 1-Year courses and short conversational programs
  
  * 1-to-1 (500 THB/hr) and small group (250 THB/hr for up to 6 people) Thai language classes, ED visa available.
  
  * Run by the South East Asian Institute of Global Studies, the Thai and Southeast Asian Studies Program at Payap University is a one- or two-semester academic program for students primarily interested in becoming proficient in the Thai language and knowledgeable about Thai culture.
  
  *
  
  * Easy Study Thai provides drop in Thai Leasons and Full 1 Year Education Visa for those wishing to study Thai.
- Thai massage
  
  Offers individual daily or weekly courses in traditional Thai massage, Thai yoga massage, Tok Sen massage, and Thai oil massage. Seminars are run by Ms. Mesa, a certified and experienced expert in these arts.
  
  * A government-registered school of Thai massage.
  
  * Thai and oil massage courses, also spa courses. All courses run by Fern are individual or occasionally small groups of friends.
  
  * traditional Thai massage,oil massage, foot massage and herbal ball massage courses done by an ancien teacher of Old Medicine Hospital in Chiang mai.
- Myanmar (Burma)
  
  A wonderful organization with great resources and reading materials about Myanmar. The center is dedicated to serving refugees from Myanmar who flee their country to escape political persecution and violence. BSC provides English language classes, legal counsel and other services to Myanmar refugees living and working in Chiang Mai; they also host wonderful public events and welcome walk-ins to visit and enjoy their impressive library.
Buy
Chiang Mai is a great place to shop. Sprawling markets during the day and night carry items from cheap trinkets to skilfully made local craft. ATM's can be found all around, but all charge 150 baht to foreign cards. Although previously Aeon did not charge the 150 baht, early in 2014 they began to. It does however have one of the lowest exchange fees. The most conveniently located Aeon ATMs can be found at Central Airport Plaza Chiang Mai (southwest of Old Town) on the 3rd floor, and at Tesco Lotus north of Old Town at the superhighway (at the corner with Atsadathon Rd), ground floor.
- Individual stores
  
  Celadon green-glazed ceramics. Sift through their pile of rejects in the covered area to the right of store and find something interesting for 20 baht.
  
  * Unique styles from simple to extravagant. English-speaking owners & staff. Jewellery is handmade by the artist owners. Great quality tee shirt collection too
  
  * Handmade leather shoes and accessories. The owners speak English and all shoes are made locally by local manufacturers.
  
  * Ingenious 2-storied second hand clothes shop with endless range of pre-selected used and really vintage items.
- Malls
  
  Modern shopping malls sell all the usual big brand products; worth investigating for electronic goods as prices can be negotiated down to a bargain.
  
  * About half a mile from the airport is a somewhat adventurous walk from the terminal. It has several floors, with a food court, banks/ATMs and multi-screen cinema. It also has a Cultural Centre attached selling many crafts, a large food market and an extensive selection of Thai ready-to-eat stalls in the basement.
  
  * Has many decent shops, restaurants and banks/ATMs.
- Markets
  
  A huge indoor/outdoor market stretching along both sides of the road with the Night Bazaar Building at the centre of the maelstrom. It can take a concerted effort to find something interesting among the near identical stalls selling tourist-oriented trinkets, tee shirts and pirated gear. You rarely will see Thai people shopping here. To get there, walk out from Tha Phae Gate in the old city and walk for 3/4 of a kilometre until you see a street to your right with tons of little stalls, take that right and then it all starts.
  
  * In the old silver-working district, it's a smaller version of the Sunday market with most of the same vendors.
  
  * The street is blocked off to traffic for local craft vendors to layout their handmade wares.
  
  * This sprawling indoor/outdoor market is where the locals shop and is worth a visit to look over the plethora of fabrics, spices, tea, and dried fruit piled up along the aisles. Across the road is a flower and fruit market and an out-of-this-world fireworks stand. At night the street is packed with snack stalls.
- Ware factories
  
  Along Rt 1006 (Charoen Muang Rd) just past the superhighway (Rt 11) are located various factories offering tours of their manufacturing process and showrooms. Silverware, silk, furniture and brass items generally priced with the cashed up tourist in mind, but the tours might be worth a look to see how things are made. They are generally open during normal daytime hours.
Eat
A stall or market that is very popular with tourists - especially 'farang' without much knowledge of the taste of genuine Thai food - can't be 'trusted' as a place to amaze your tastebuds. A stall that has plenty of local Thai customers is more likely to be authentic - though generally they might not seek tourists (their menu in all-thai emphasizes this) and speak no word of English - they can be worth the visit. These shops, which seem to have been along the canal at some point before the tourist boom, have moved to back roads or further away because of the increasing costs in rent. A basic understanding in Thai will be very useful in opening up a whole new range of gourmet possibilities.

Chiang Mai's restaurants offer a wide range of food, second only to Bangkok. Naturally it's a good place to sample northern Thai food: in particular, hunt down some khao soi, yellow wheat noodles in curry broth, traditionally served with chicken (gai) or beef (neua), but available some places as vegetarian or with seafood - see listings below. Another local specialty is hang ley, Lanna-style pork curry. There is also a wide range of excellent international food restaurants, from cheap hamburger stands to elaborate Italian eateries.

When you come to Chiang Mai you should try a khantoke dinner and show. Although these are just for tourists it is still a nice way to spend an evening. The first khantoke dinner was held in 1953 by Professor Kraisi Nimanhemin who wanted to host a special event for 2 friends leaving Chiang Mai. Two more such dinners were held, both in 1953, thus "khantoke" dinners are not "historic", but rather a relatively recent invention. Khantoke literally means small bowl, low table (khan = small bowl. tok = low table) There are also many garden restaurants where you can enjoy an excellent Thai meal in a beautiful setting.

The range and value of Western food in Chiang Mai is unsurpassed in Northern Thailand and there is a full range of restaurants from Australian/British/Irish, through French and German to Italian, Spanish, American and Mexican. In fact considering how remote Chiang Mai is from the major centres of population in Asia, it is remarkable how many Western restaurants there are! This is one city where eating Thai is not the only option.
- Japanese
  
  While perhaps not a special restaurant in that it is not unique to Chiang Mai (it's actually a large chain) for those seeking reasonably priced Japanese food, Fuji is a must. Expect to pay 120 baht and up for each dish (for instance, a single sushi roll), however there are several spectacular set meals that offer great "bang for your buck", e.g., the Fuji Sashimi Set which can easily fill up a sushi lover for 190 baht. Another outlet in Panthip Plaza.
  
  * Owned and managed by a cute Japanese-Thai husband and wife team, this restaurant is known as the best Japanese restaurant among Japanese residents in Chiang Mai. Although the menu is limited, ingredients are always fresh, cooking and presentation are excellent. Lunch is best value for money, with set meals costing around 140-200 baht.
  
  * A little hidden in a side street, but visible from the main road near Tha Phae Gate. Delicious and very good value for money (250 baht will fill you).
  
  * Reasonably priced sushi, sashimi and standard sushi bar Japanese meals. This is the first Sushi Box in Chiang Mai, there are five in Phuket. Mainly Thai crowd, moderately prices, lounge upstairs, great for people watching. Open 11am-11pm. Can get busy at night.
- Vegetarian
  
  Chiang Mai has an amazing selection of vegetarian restaurants. The Chiang Mai Vegetarian restaurants map [https://www.facebook.com/chiangmaivegetarian2006] lists over 50 places. Many other places will offer vegetarian food as well, but be aware that they often don't care if there are some animal ingredients in the food any way (i.e. shrimp paste, fish and oyster sauce). This is only part out of ignorance because even the local Buddhist monks themselves often eat fish. (Thus, asking for your dish to be prepared "like the monks", which works in other places, does not get the same results in Chiang Mai).
  
  * Serves a vegetarian version of khao soi - though quite sweet. She makes a mushroom stock from scratch with barely any sugar-unlike other places. No MSG. Interesting yet relaxed interior with shelves of books and a cozy upstairs area.
  
  * Thai and Western, huge selection of items for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Great salads, fruits, juices, noodle dishes, bakery, good breads.
  
  * Lebanese owner/chef caters to middle eastern food lovers. Large portions of delicious tabbouleh, tahini salads, and humus alongside fresh falafel and simply brilliant flat bread (a secret recipe). Shisha/nargila/water pipes are available (mint & grape flavour is a new favourite) as well as mint tea.
  
  * Not quite sure why there are two Pun Puns, but this one is definitely good. A mix of Thai and other styles, run by laconic locals and linked to a local farm. The falafel is lovely (but different) and the salsa it comes with is delicious. Pasta can be quite sweet, and the cookies are great.
  
  * Thai vegetarian. A lunch buffet is available every day from 11:00-14:30 for 129 baht. Closes at 14:30 on the 16th of every month.
  
  * A different range of Thai vegan dishes from the norm. A focus on faux-meats (the veggie sausage is great!) and the faux-fish in curry-sauce was good. Of course, bamboo shoot stir-fry, noodle-soups, etc., means there's lots to try. They cook during the day, so other dishes appear from the kitchen often.
  
  * Thai vegetarian with organic ingredients from local farmers and many vegan-friendly options. Run by a local self-reliance and seed-saving centre outside the city.
  
  * Thai vegetarian with vegan options. Owned by a friendly English expat, this restaurant offers curries and noodle dishes in a comfortable and clean setting, with both indoor and garden seating.
  
  * Delicious vegan buffet is available at super cheap prices. There are a few great dishes: the tofu, mushroom, and lemon grass wrapped in banana leaves is addictive; the het-hom (shitake) and other protein/gluten goodies are lovely; the steaming noodle soup is a great addition to a meal if you've rocked up late and want to warm up the buffet dishes. The earlier the better at this joint. When dishes run out, they aren't remade. Also, you can buy some vegan supplies from here.
  
  * Small and ceap Thai eatery in walking distance of the train station. Coordinates: N18° 47.021 E099° 00.766
Drink
(See note about tap water under "Stay Safe" below)

Chiang Mai's nightlife scene is the most happening in the North, although still a far cry from Bangkok's hot spots. This guide will show where you can hangout, meet some of the most beautiful girls in Thailand, get outrageous or do whatever takes your fancy. There are discos, karaoke bars, and live music everywhere. The busiest nightlife zones are near Tha Phae Gate, Loi Kroh Road and along Charoenrat Road on the eastern bank of the Ping River.
- Bars and pubs
  
  Many, but by no means all, of Chiang Mai's tourist-oriented bars and pubs are located along Loi Kroh Road. In addition to the street bars, the Chiang Mai Entertainment Complex (CMEC) can be found at the Night Bazaar end of Loi Kroh. Here you will find around 30 bars ranging from sports bars that feature big screens to watch sports and play pool, to Pattaya-style girlie "beer bars", to even bars staffed exclusively by kathoeys (ladyboys). The complex also features a muay Thai boxing ring that has exhibition bouts for free or a voluntary donation, and on Thursdays real competitive boxing that requires a small entrance fee unless your bar has provided you with complimentary viewing. And for extra fun, the occasional Westerner tries his hands, feet, and elbows, usually with hilarious results.
  
  Also take a stroll along Moon Muang Road and its side sois. Here you can find small expat hangouts, go-go bars, and sports bars. Most have pool tables and hostesses, along with music videos or various TV sport programmes. Be aware that despite their charm and friendliness, the pressure to purchase lady drinks can end up with a very surprising "check bin" (tab) at the end of the night. A few of these bars recommended by expats are:
  
  * Very reasonable prices, 10-30% less than others in the Loi Kroh neighbourhood. This bar/restaurant has a very good atmosphere. The host is the charming Mai. There is a free pool table, but don't expect an easy game if she is playing. A little-known fact about this place: it serves terrific food. A true undiscovered gem in Chiang Mai. E.g., large baguette sandwiches for less than 100 baht.
  
  * A beautifully recycled wood furnished bar with free Internet and friendly staff. Good pub food, and is a great place to have a meal and spend a relaxing evening. Also home of Crank Adventures for excellent mountain bike tours and bike hire.
  
  * One of the smaller bars at the top of Loi Kroh but also one of the most cozy. What really make this place stand out is the friendly staff and the fact that this bar has two floors so you can get away from the bustle of street level and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere from the balcony.
  
  * Sports bar with many regulars and tourists. Darts & pool area, big TV, really nice international cuisine, especially the burgers, but also good Thai and Indian dishes. Excellent (can be loud) music, friendly atmosphere and beautiful women.
  
  * Hosted by the feisty and effervescent Jane who always has a great selection of music of your choice played as loud as you like, together with free pool and a wonderful group of really friendly girls to ease your shyness. Always a great favourite as it does not have girls of the pushy, "buy me a drink" type but the quality service always ensures their welcome visitors want to come back.
  
  * No pressure to buy lady drinks, free pool for customers and friendly staff
  
  * With cheap prices and, as the name suggests, a very cool atmosphere, this bar is sure to satisfy. The décor is excellent.
  
  * This is an old fashioned bar and restaurant for SE Asia's community of authors, journalists, and screenwriters, though everyone's welcome. A good, informal source of information about SE Asia. This is where the some of those writing guide books gather.
  
  There are also some regular bars with a normal atmosphere:
  
  * A decent wine bar with comfortable seating and relaxing music, great escape from the busy street scene.
  
  * American-style burger and Southwest steakhouse, friendly staff, nice atmosphere, big screen music videos and sporting events, pool tables and free Internet, free popcorn and peanuts, over 50 kinds of margaritas, draft Chang beer. Kitchen open from breakfast until late everyday.
  
  * Long- established English-style pub, has had a makeover and extended the bar and the restaurant but kept its charm. Great selection of food and drinks, including roast dinners on Sundays. Has an outside area where you can sit and enjoy the tranquillity of a tropical garden, and has recently added bungalows for those wishing to linger longer.
  
  * Draught Guinness and Heineken. Imported Blackthorn Cider and Fuller's London Pride as well as Belgian and German beers. Pub favourites including bangers 'n mash, fish 'n chips, steak & kidney pie as well as steaks and pasta. International and Thai food. Menu in 7 languages including Japanese and Chinese. A great place to relax after shopping at the Night Bazaar. Live sports on a HD big screen including Premier League Football, Aussie Rules, Rugby and Formula 1 (weekends only) and a great selection of classic pop and rock videos from the 60s to the 80s during the week. The Red Lion is also the home of The Chiang Mai FC Expats supporters club. They meet two hours before the match at the pub. Visitors welcome. A free ride to the game is usually available.
  
  West of the city centre, the area around Nimmanhaemin Rd is a popular hangout for younger Thais, perhaps due to its proximity to Chiang Mai University. The pubs tend to straddle a fine line between bar, restaurant, and nightclub, and feature loud music interspersed with live bands fronted by musicians who are most likely hitting the books in the daytime. Tourists looking for something racier are better off staying in the east side of town. Little English is spoken in this part of town. Little doesn't mean none, however, and the staff of many bars, being students, still can understand what do you want, or even sometimes can speak reasonably well.
  
  * Mo'C Mo'L, Huay Kaew Rd. Pub and restaurant near Chiang Mai University, there are many zones in the restaurant: coffee shop, dining outdoors near the small pond, dining indoors with live music.
  
  * Monkey Club, Nimminheimin Rd, Soi 9. +66 53 226997-8. Another hot spot for students and 20-somethings, with a variety of live music. Open 17:00-01:00.
  
  * Warm Up Bar This chain bar/restaurant/club has several venues in Thailand. The venue in Chang Mai is a lot less touristy and the dance hall packed to the brim of Thai students.
  
  Many smaller (usually no live music, but offer TV, generally with football or other sports) roadside Thai bars around this area, but outside of more up-market Nimmanhaemin Rd, they are cheap (50 to 65 baht for a large Chang or Leo is common). Often they have a discount if you buy 3 bottles of their proffered beer at one go, with a price of 129, 119, or even 109 baht for all three. The posters about those "promotions", if any, are in Thai language only. If you can't read Thai, look for the numbers mentioned above, and, if in doubt, ask the staff. Often (if they can speak enough English) the staff will tell you about this offer themselves, if they have one. Expats sometimes can be seen in those small bars, but generally most of the customers are Thais.
- Live music
  
  The area along the east bank of the Mae Ping River on Charoenrat Rd is famous for jazz, rock, pop, Thai, and country and western live music, along with restaurants serving Thai, Western, and Chinese food. Coming from the centre of the city, just walk from the night bazaar across the Narawatt Bridge, from where all the restaurants can be seen along the river on the left.
  
  Most bands in Chiang Mai play for about an hour, and then move on to do the same at another restaurant or pub, so don't be surprised to see the same band twice if you switch venues.
  
  * The owner, "Boy", plays great blues guitar and is a nephew of Chiang Mai legend "Took", of the now defunct Brasserie. Monday night is jamming night and some great visiting musicians have made this often memorable. Bangkok blues legend, Chai (of Chai's Blues Bar fame), often joins in, as do Chiang Mai's local brass section greats Roddy and Craig. Well worth a visit.>
  
  * Live music every night, except Monday: Brit pop, rock, Thai. Mostly Thais go to this bar but you will as well get to see some expats, Age: 22-32. Service is excellent and if you happen to go there by yourself, for sure someone will come up to talk to you. The menu includes delicious cocktails: "Mango Kiss", "Velvet"! Cheap beer & Sangsom (Thai rum) as well as snacks. The outside sitting area is perfect if you want to talk.
  
  * The live music starts around 19:00 with dinner music from the Eagles, Beatles, or soft jazz. Starting at 21:00, the music changes to more rock and pop songs. Full bar service serving wine, beer, and spirits are available. The restaurant gets very crowded, so get here early to get a table. The Riverside also offers a nightly dinner cruise departing at 20:00 for 110 baht/person extra.
  
  * Thai and western varieties of rock, jazz, pop and country music entertain in the evening. Their extensive menu offers more than 150 Thai, Chinese, and Western dishes, including curries, noodles, rice, and pizza. Soft drinks and a full bar serving wine, beer, and spirits are available. Again, if you want a good, river view table, get there early.
  
  * The North Gate has easily become one of the most popular, regular destinations for Chiang Mai's young expat community. With nightly jazz performances starting around 21:30 with different performers and occasional guests from the audience, the North Gate offers something unique to the often repetitious Chiang Mai live music scene. Mixed bag in terms of quality, sometimes great sometimes mediocre. In addition to nightly music performed by true lovers and technicians of jazz, the North Gate offers a variety of drinks not normally found within Chiang Mai, notably red and white wine, mojitos, and other mixed drinks. The staff is quick and efficient and prices are reasonable.
  
  * Good for a drink any day, but best visited on Saturdays for live jazz.
- Nightclubs
  
  A small club with live band, DJ, and huge screens showing music videos. Good for drinking nights and letting loose. Bring ID/passport as they can be strict with entry especially on weekend nights.
  
  * A Thai place with live music most nights, reasonable drink prices and no cover charge for foreigners or locals.
  
  *Mandalay has a younger Thai crowd. Foreigners pay a cover charge. Locals don't. Even overseas Asians seem to get in for free. The manager doesn't seek Western tourists, but if you don't mind dual pricing, this is a peek into the world of young Thais at play! Every local person will tell you that this is only a gay bar.
  
  * Spicy is a hectic after-hours place with good drinks, dancing and lots of girls looking to party. Be forewarned, many are bar girls, so do not be surprised if they ask for money to go home with you.
  
  *Warm Up Cafe The most popular night club in Chiang Mai. Only young locals go here. Live music outdoor area and DJ music inside. Be sure to dress up, all girls here do.
- Gay bars
  
  Chiang Mai is a popular destination for gay tourists and many gay people have retired here. Highlights of the vibrant gay scene include:
  
  * Outdoor garden bar and restaurant serving Lebanese, Western and Thai food. Popular meeting place for gay expats and tourists.
  
  * Sophisticated wine bar popular with the gay community.
  
  * Northern Thai-style outdoor bar and restaurant. Packed with very friendly staff and fun atmosphere.
  
  * Expats, tourists, and Thai men.
- Coffee
  
  Chiang Mai has sprouted a thriving coffee culture, having an abundance of roadside stalls to Starbucks-style chains seemingly every few metres. The dilettante baristas consistently squeeze out a decent cup from their electric machines regardless of the price or opulence of their premises. A standard espresso or long black (Americano) is 30 baht, iced around 35 baht and upwards of 45 baht for more elaborate milk and sprinkles.
  
  * Run by 'Oil', this little place has excellent espresso-based drinks, free WiFi, or ten minutes on the computer with your coffee. Very modern design; seating in the front is open-air while the back is air conditioned. Oil herself speaks excellent English and is happy to give you the low-down.
  
  * The noisy location is made up for by the excellent espresso. Internet is free, and the 'fishbowl' inside is both air conditioned and sound proofed against the rush of traffic.
  
  * A trendy art cafe featuring an award-winning barista, choices of single-origin beans and a varied drink menu. Very friendly atmosphere and a much higher standard for quality than is normally seen in Thailand.
  
  * This cozy spot, nestled comfortably between a bakery and a leather shop, at the quiet part of the popular soi 6, serves excellent coffee in a relaxing atmosphere. Free WiFi. Serves a la carte breakfasts, a daily Thai dish, and great all-you-can-eat BBQs every W & Sa.
  
  * Looks much like a Starbucks, but nice mugs if you drink it there. Inside is well air-conditioned, outside is under a canopy (they mist water in the heat of the afternoon). The staff pride themselves on their decorative drinks (look for the panda-topped latte.) Internet available for small fee.
Sleep
Accommodation in Chiang Mai is generally cheap, even by Thai standards. All types of lodging are available from inexpensive guesthouses with little or no service to the typical high rise hotels and elaborate garden resorts. The latest boom is Thai-style boutique resorts located near the old city centre. Several have been built since mid-2005. They offer excellent service in quiet garden settings. Most are fairly small with as few as 8 rooms and a pool, and are decorated with Thai crafts and antiques. Prices are going up as more travelers are visiting the city. Rooms with ac and shared bathrooms could go for 200 but you have to search them out

Some of the cheapest accommodation may refuse guests who are not also booking a trekking package. If so, please remove them from Wikitravel.

Evenings in Chiang Mai are cooler than Bangkok and the south during the dry season, so air conditioning may be less of a priority.

For long-term (more than 1 month) visitors, simple but comfortable studio rooms (20-30 sq.m. with air-con, TV, fridge, outside window, parking, often WiFi [charged separately]) should cost 4,000 to 6,000 baht/month, plus utilities. Many of the best value places are located in the northwest (between Huay Kaew and Chang Phueak Rds, especially behind the superhighway) of the city and around Chiang Mai University (including the highway west of the airport), but there are some in other parts of the city as well. Some may offer daily rates (400-600 baht). Pay attention to the price of electricity when comparing. While the official price is just over 3 baht/kWh, almost all apartments/condos charge 5 to 10 baht, typically 6. More luxurious rooms and apartments are also available, for the price, and are more likely to be found online. New: Mentioning electricity is a bit of a scam; its business overhead and shouldn't concern travelers. When guesthouse owners speak of this either ignore or look for other places as there are abundant choices (2014).
- Hotels
  
  Art themed 5 star boutique hotel in the heart of downtown chiang mai area.
  
  * Based at Shewe Wana.
  
  * A mid-sized hotel with a small fitness centre and pool.
  
  * Cosy little hotel, tiny pool, built like Roman Castle. Great breakfast and free Wi-Fi. 5-10 min walk to the middle of old city.
  
  * Excellent four-star hotel with cheaper Internet rates. However the Internet connection speed there is terribly slow. Probably a little cheaper than similar hotels as it's in the red-light district, but the area seems quite safe and the hotel is of very high quality. For those not staying at the hotel, for 300 baht, you can use the high quality gym on the fourth floor (includes a Jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna, as well as a large L-shaped swimming pool that looks out on downtown Chiang Mai).
  
  * A modern hotel on the grounds of the former British Consulate. 84 deluxe rooms and club suites, all with a private courtyard it also features a fitness and health club, two bars, a restaurant featuring Thai, Indian, and Western cuisine, a spa and an outdoor swimming pool.
  
  * Four-star luxury hotel in traditional Lanna style with 375 rooms and suites, a convention centre, sauna rooms, outdoor swimming pool, business centre and massage parlour. Good breakfast and friendly staff.
  
  * In the traditional Lanna style, this resort includes a spa, cooking classes, kid's club and fitness centre. The resort caused some local controversy when it built a fake temple based on one of Thailand's most holy sites in its grounds.
  
  * Newly built four-star hotel in traditional Lanna style, 36 rooms, outdoor swimming pool, tropical garden, fitness club and spa, restaurant (Thai & Western cuisine) and very friendly staff.
Cope
- Medical Tourism
  
  Chiang Mai invariably finds itself at the top of travel magazines’ international surveys, and is no longer the sleepy northern Thai village it was a few decades ago. Although the city still retains its cultural charm, it has developed into a modern, fully-developed destination in its own right, complete with many excellent hospitals and treatment facilities, resorts, spas, wellness centers, alternative healing retreats with a distinctively northern Thai flavor.
  
  Medical tourists are increasingly choosing Chiang Mai as their destination of choice for all types of procedures and treatments, including medical, dental, and cosmetic procedures. Aside from the pre- and post-treatment tourism options, the costs are generally lower, the weather is milder, and the overall stress factor is ratcheted down a few notches, perfect for rest and recovery.
  
  Chiang Mai hospitals, aware of the increasing numbers of medical tourists heading north, have geared up to meet the challenge. Many offer special medical tourism packages for international patients and have upgraded their staff and facilities to handle the needs of visitors from different countries. At the forefront of this trend is Chiang Mai Ram International Hospital.
  
  Chiang Mai Ram is the top choice for medical tourists, as it can handle the most complex procedures such as cardiac care, knee replacement, sexual reassignment surgery, and other very specialized medical treatments. It is also well-known for its cosmetic and dermatology departments. Its quality and standards have been recognized internationally, and it is JCI accredited.
  
  In addition to popular dental treatments such as teeth cleaning and whitening, root canals, crowns, and implants, Chiang Mai now has a number of superb dermatology centers and skin-care clinics that specialize in treatments including facial-rejuvenation and hair and cellulite removal. Although Chiang Mai Ram is the north’s flagship hospital, there are a number of other long-established, well-regarded hospitals in Chiang Mai; these include: Chang Puak Hospital, McCormick Hospital, St. Peter Eye Hospital, Lanna Hospital, and Rajavej Chiang Mai Hospital. [http://www.mymedholiday.com/country/thailand/chiang-mai]
  
  Chiang Mai is also an excellent dental tourism destination. In fact, many visitors prefer Chiang Mai over Bangkok for a number of reasons, especially for more serious, multi-visit procedures. Chiang Mai offers virtually everything that Bangkok has, but the prices for both the treatment and the cost of living in Chiang Mai is less.
- Laundry
  
  There are laundromats and laundry services all over town, but they all wash cold. There is a laundromat that has 3 machines that can do hot washing as well on Chaiyapum Rd (road along the moat from Si Phum corner to Tha Phae Gate) about half way between Sompet market and Tha Phae Gate. Opposite there is a cafe from where you can watch your stuff while having a beer.
  A pick up and return service is offered by EM'S Laundry Service 082 180 1303 (www.chiangmailaundry.com) and covers a large area of the old and new city. Collecting from home, office and hotel the business offers a full range of laundry services including dry cleaning and same day wash. Prices are normal and the pick up/return is free. Good English is spoken and laundry is returned clean, fresh and on time.
Stay safe
- Crime
  
  As always, travellers should take extra care in all poorly lit or more remote areas. Don't carry valuables in a bag after dark as one common tourist-related crime here is bag-snatching by men on motorbikes. Mind your bag especially if you are walking on a dark street at night. Other violence against foreigners is not about theft but consists of deliberately causing traffic accidents or yelling racist insult in the hope of starting a fight.
  
  The safest approach is to act like your Thai hosts and wear reasonable clothing (shoulders and chest covered), medium-length skirts, long shorts or long pants, speak in a moderate tone of voice, and avoid flashing money or jewellery. Respectable Thais appreciate your behaviour but many people in Chiang Mai don't care and you can still easily become a target of criminal activity.
- Scams
  
  Unfortunately some scams from [wiki=3d147c6ba113929f5a004a5e9dcc832e]Bangkok[/wiki] have started to rear their ugly heads in Chiang Mai. Two in particular are worth watching out for: the gem scam, where you are talked into buying near-worthless gems at far above their real value; and the tuk-tuk scam, where a smooth-talking tuk-tuk driver tells you that the attraction you want to see is closed, and instead offers you a sightseeing tour for 20 baht (or some similarly unrealistic number). Needless to say, the tour will either consist of nothing but overpriced gift shops, or will smoothly segue into the gem scam. See the "Stay Safe" section of the [wiki=3d147c6ba113929f5a004a5e9dcc832e]Bangkok[/wiki] article for more details.
- Smoke
  
  Chiang Mai's smoke levels can be discomfiting, and sometimes dangerous, during rice field-burning season, approximately from early February well into April. The whole of northern Thailand and neighboring Myanmar and Laos often fals under a thick pall in this period, with hundreds of thousands treated for smoke inhalation. There are typically dozens of deaths. For example in 2007, 58 people died of smoke-related heart attacks. If you intend to visit at this time, you are well-advised to check on smoke levels in advance. Thousands of residents (foreign and Thai) leave Chiang Mai at this time to escape the smoke. The government is apparently uninterested in fixing the problem: in 2007, famously blaming it on Korean barbecue restaurants, which were then all closed down! Presently, the 'solution' is to spray the streets with water to 'moisten the air' (which actually does have an effect on reducing the ppm of airborne pollutants). There is little political will to tackle the burning of rice fields, which is the cause of the smoke. In March 2012, dangerous PM10 particles measured over 200 mcg per cubic metre of air in Chiang Mai, well above the 'unsafe' level of 120 mcg (the Thai government standard, which is more than twice the maximum level set by the [wiki=5d292a222024f1b13e98a059c94a9b75]World Health Organization[/wiki] ( [wiki=9ed1e9f759b27c20c0ee8a56113c84e3]WHO[/wiki] ) at 50 mcg). Neighbouring areas were as bad or worse (Chiang Rai for example was at 306 mcgs), so moving on to a neighbouring province will generally not help. The pall of smoke stretches from northern Laos, across Thailand, to eastern Burma.
- Water
  
  Tap water should be regarded as non-potable. Liquids from sealed bottles nearly always are, and should be used wherever possible. Nearly all restaurants use ice made by professional ice-making companies and is generally safe. There are street side water vending machines (50 setang to 2 baht per litre) throughout the city. Using one saves money and a lot of plastic refuse, but the quality of the water varies greatly from one machine to the next.
- Dogs
  
  Chiang Mai is home to a large number of stray dogs (sometimes called "soi dogs"). The vast majority will leave you alone if you do not disturb them, particularly during the day when the heat makes them sleepy. Some, however, can be very aggressive and territorial, and while their bark is often worse than their bite it is not unheard of to be bitten (this writer speaks from first-hand experience - see also stories such as [url=http://www.chiangmaicitynews.com/news.php?id=263]Chiang Mai News: Dog Attacks Woman at Chiang Mai Temple[/url]). Avoid entering the grounds of empty temples after dark, when the stray dogs that monks have taken in will often be in guard dog mode, and if surrounded by a pack of barking dogs at any time of day be sure to calmly and slowly walk away.
  
  If you do get bitten, always flush the wound with as much water as possible, apply alcohol-based hand sanitiser if you have it on you, and go immediately to the A&E department of the closest hospital. Even the tiniest bites, if the skin is broken, can cause rabies, and the hospital will take this very seriously. Remember that even if you've had rabies jabs in your home country before coming to Thailand, you will still need post-exposure vaccinations as quickly as possible.
- Motorbikes
  
  With so many sights to see in the surrounding areas, it can be very tempting to hire a motorbike in Chiang Mai. If you're a capable and experienced motorcyclist - go for it and have fun! If not, then think very carefully about the risks involved. Thailand's roads are home to an exceptionally high number of motorbike accidents, and although Chiang Mai roads are certainly not as hair-raising as somewhere like Bangkok, they are no place for a beginner. Do not put your own life, and the lives of others, at risk.
  When renting a motorbike always make good picture of both sides of the bike as some people will try to rip you off. Please add any company where you had problems with to the blacklist.
- Blacklist
  
  A "Motorbike & Car Rental", 99 moonmuang road sriphum chiangmai: tried to keep deposit saying that we had damaged their bike, although providing pictures, we had a long fight to get the money back.
Stay healthy
- Medical
  
  Thai and English speaking healthcare centre/medical clinic providing comprehensive medical services for travelers, such as vaccinations and full health check ups.
- Dental
  
  There are many dental centres around the city and prices are generally good.
  
  * Modern, state-of-the-art dental clinic. Many of the practitioners there, about 15 total, have studied abroad. Most, if not all, speak excellent English, as do the staff.
Travelling responsibly

Touristic attractions that rely on animal exploitation run rampant. Please avoid endorsing such places, shows, or so called “conservation” projects ("Help us to help them!", sounds familiar?), as even most of the latter are little more than just touristic attractions with little or no real intention of actually helping to release or even protect these animals. If you are considering volunteer positions or day tours with elephants, thoroughly do your research before making any commitments.
At some bars and touristic spots some people may offer you to take your photograph with animals, even baby animals, in exchange for money. Please remember that the most likely way (and many times the only way) these babies were acquired were by poachers killing the mothers, or the entire family. Endorsing this practice only leads to more demand, and more killing.
Moreover, some of the species used are endangered and protected under Thai law, which makes the possession and abuse of many of these animals illegal.
Contact
- Shipping and Postal Services
  
  The Thai postal system is quite good and offer a variety of local and international shipping options. In Chiang Mai there are many post offices such as the main Phra Sing post office a few blocks south of Wat Phra Sing, and a smaller post office just across the street from the 3 Kings monument. Hours are 8:30am-4:30pm M-F, 8:30am-12:00pm Sa.
  
  * World-wide express shipping. Packaging services.
- Internet
  
  Many guest houses, hotels, cafes, shopping malls, and even swimming pools, offer Wi-Fi connections. These are usually free or available for a small charge. If you are travelling with your laptop you should be able to connect to the Internet within a 500 m radius of your Chiang Mai city-based accommodation at little or no cost.
  
  In November 2012, the Ministry of Information announced the launching of 3,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots in Chiang Mai. The program, called ICT Free Wi-Fi for the Public by AIS, offers a download speed of 10 Mbps for up to five hours a month. Hotspots can be found near schools, shopping centres, hospitals, and government offices. Those interested must sign up for the free service at [url=http://www.ais.co.th/ictfreewifi],]after which you will receive a user ID and password. This service is not unlimited however, and is restricted to a number of hours per month.
  
  Internet cafes abound and can be found everywhere within the city. Prices vary from 10 baht/hour (in "gaming" places filled with local kids) to 60 baht/half-hour (2 baht/minute) and up. Most places charge per 15 or 30 minute block, others by the minute. The cheapest and most comfortable places with fast connections, webcam, microphone and Skype, can be found along Huay Kaew Road near the main entrance to Chiang Mai University, where the cost is 10-20 baht.
  
  Unlimited (though not spectacularly speedy) 3G wifi can be had for low package prices (399 THB/mo and up) with only a one-month sign-up period from most vendors (AIS, True).
  
  *
  
  * Internet is free if you by a drink. They have fast ADSL equipped with Skype and you will be in comfortable surroundings. Also good for bike hire and tours.
  
  As everywhere in Thailand, GPRS/EDGE is a cheap and convenient option to access Internet if you have a laptop and local SIM card. TrueMove 850 MHz 3G covers most parts of the city. For more details, refer to the [[Thailand#Contact|Thailand[/url]] article.
- Thailand Post
  
  Airport 24-hr Post Office- 60 Moo 3, Airport Rd, Tel: +66 53 277 382.
  
  * Chang Klan Post Office- 186-186/1 Chang Klan Rd, Tel: +66 53 273 657.
  
  * Chang Phuak Post Office-195/8-9 Chang Phuak Rd, Tel: +66 53 222 483.
  
  * Maeping Post Office- 24 Praisanee Rd, Tel: +66 53 252036-7.
  
  * Main Post Office - Charoen Muang Rd, Tel: +66 53 241 070, +66 53 245 376.
  
  * Phra Sing Post Office - Singharat Rd (three-minute walk south of Wat Phra Singh).
  
  * Talat Kam Tieng Post Office - Assadathon Rd, near Tesco Lotus, just off the super highway. This is the post office where you ship/receive bulky objects like bicycles and motorbikes.
- Telephone
  
  Directory inquiry service: 183/1133
  * International and domestic operator-assisted service: 100
  * Overseas dial-out code: 001
  * AT&T International operator for collect calls: 001 999 11111
- Emergency contacts
  
  Police - emergencies: 191
  * Police - Tourist: 1155, 053-278559
  * Fire: 053-241777
  * Rescue Team: 053-218888
- Embassies & consulates
  
  Australia, 165 Sirimungklajarn, T. Suthep, A.Muang, +66 53 219 726 or +66 53 400 232 / +66 53 221 083 (fax: +66 53 219 726).
  
  * Bangladesh, 95 Huay Kaew Rd, T. Suthep, A.Muang +66 53-53 212373 - 4 (fax+66 53-53 223524).
  
  * Canada, 151 Super Highway, Tambon Tahsala, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai 50000. Tel: +66 5385-0147 or 5324-2292. Fax: +66 5385-0332. Email: cancon@loxinfo.co.th [http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/thailand-thailande/offices-bureaux/consul_chiang-ma.aspx?lang=eng&view=d]
  
  * China, 111 Changlo Rd, Haiya District, +66 53 -276125, 272197, 200424 (admin office) (fax: +66 53-274614) [mailto:cgprccm@loxinfo.co.th cgprccm@loxinfo.co.th] [http://chiangmai.china-consulate.org/eng/]
  
  * Finland, 104-112 Tha Phae Rd, +66 53-234777.
  
  * Germany, Consulate of the Federal Republic of Germany, 199/163 Moo 3, Baan Nai Fun2, Kan Klong Chonpretan Rd, Tambon MaeHia, tel+fax: +66 53-838735.
  
  * Great Britain, British Consulate, 198 Bumrungraj Rd +66 53-263015 (fax: +66 53-263016) [mailto:ukconsul@loxinfo.co.th ukconsul@loxinfo.co.th][http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/find-an-embassy/asia-and-oceania/hon-consulate-chiang-mai].
  
  * India, 33/1, Thung Hotel Rd, Wat Kate, Muang, Chiang Mai 50000 +66 53-243066 (fax: +66 53-247879)
  
  * Italy, 19/1 Soi 9 Sirimangkalajarn, T. Suthep, A.Muang, +66 53-212925 (fax: +66 53-224832). [http://www.ambbangkok.esteri.it/Ambasciata_Bangkok/Menu/Ambasciata/La_rete_consolare/]
  
  * Japan, Airport Business Park, 90 Mahidol Rd. T.Haiya, A. Muang +66 53-203367 (fax: +66 53-203373)[http://www.th.emb-japan.go.jp/en/embassy/chiangmai.htm].
  
  * South Africa, 2nd Floor Chiang Inn Hotel, 100 Chang Klan Rd, Amphor Muang +66 53-270070-6 (fax: +66 53-274299 / mobile: +66-1 8412629).
  
  * South Korea, V Group Building, 3rd Floor, 50 Huay Kaew Rd, Tambon Chang Puak, Amphoe Mueang +66 5322-3119 Ext : 206,210 (fax: +66 53-22-5661). [mailto:vgroup@cmnet.co.th]
  
  * Sweden, Svenska Konsulatet i Chiang Mai, 11 Sermsuk Rd, Mengrairasmi, +66 53-220844 (fax: +66 53-210877).
  
  * USA, U.S. Consulate General, 387 Witchayanon Rd, +66 53-252629 (fax: +66 53-252633), [http://chiangmai.usconsulate.gov/].
Get out
[wiki=a4822a2501c41de01e3fccfa29447fe8]Chiang Dao[/wiki] - an hour north of the city, and a good starting point for treks into the mountains

* [wiki=42b70f12aaad31c157c9e2f43853e5d2]Thaton (Thailand)[/wiki] - a few hours north of the city, where boats go down the river to Chiang Rai with a beautiful backdrop.

* [wiki=272b640a473efcd009bb46ffb68b2e8c]Chiang Rai[/wiki] - a relaxed city 3 hours north, and a transit point on the way to the [wiki=1a7a4ce0b87fe80d2dec564d164e60b5]Golden Triangle[/wiki] and [wiki=601aebf4afb1db3fdb5c88f3cdda23ef]Laos[/wiki].

* [wiki=a121d5b617dd875d5cc61c06140ffde9]Doi Inthanon National Park[/wiki] - the highest peak in Thailand (2,565 m), 60 km southwest of Chiang Mai

* [wiki=4f2f2890b0f53c1796c640dc34a8806b]Lampang[/wiki] - urban Northern Thailand without the commercialism, 100 km southeast of Chiang Mai

* [wiki=dcffe2c5539ff888cd27a3b0c918b532]Lamphun[/wiki] - a scenic town with a long history and a longan festival, 26 km southeast of Chiang Mai

* [wiki=3177d9672fc8d2a9b22a5cf140b61735]Mae Sariang[/wiki] - A rural non-tourist small town in a lush valley, surrounded by hilltribe villages and pristine nature. 180km from Chiang Mai on Rt 108. By public bus/minivan about 4hrs.

* [wiki=0ec76c24d0fcac105d848424ffa12d4f]Mae Hong Son[/wiki] - a picturesque little town set in a mountainous valley, with a strong Shan (ethnic minority) influence who make up the majority of the population. 235 km from Chiang Mai on Rt 1095. By public bus about 6 hours.

* [wiki=4cb7240529a68facd36243acb01f4194]Pai[/wiki] - a tourist-oriented town, offering a relaxed atmosphere with a broad traveller & backpacker scene. Popular with hippies.

* [wiki=cd3e20110c46d74bfd610c3d99e35c92]Mae Hong Son Loop[/wiki] - A minimum 5day trip from Chiang Mai that makes a loop through Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son, Pai and finishes back in Chiang Mai

* [wiki=0657038008ee10df1a7dc9e8b25e59a0]Nan[/wiki] - the former capital of a small kingdom filled with history and temples and surrounded by mountains
- Border crossings
  
  [wiki=3c3aa1501e4235da2a21658a3aaf52fa]Mae Sai[/wiki] - [wiki=f16955338a6ee101d44e7dd651f36e56]Tachilek[/wiki], [wiki=217fa54cc9351504fcde32147bff005d]Myanmar[/wiki] - Five hours north of Chiang Mai on the Thai-Myanmar border lie [wiki=3c3aa1501e4235da2a21658a3aaf52fa]Mae Sai[/wiki] (Thailand) and [wiki=f16955338a6ee101d44e7dd651f36e56]Tachilek[/wiki] (Myanmar) best known for their border markets. A popular place to pop over border for a few hours before renewing your Thai visa. Note that there are no consular services so you cannot get a new visa here. It is possible to get a 30-day visitors visa on re-entry to Thailand which can come in very handy if you do not have any time left on your current Thai visa. The Myanmar fee for a same day entry permit is 10 USD or 500 baht (so it is better to use USD). Many people buy western alcohol (esp, wine) while in Myanmar due to the very large duties imposed in Thailand.
  
  * [wiki=1d519ad213d157f3e59a6abfe48c819b]Chiang Khong[/wiki] - [wiki=a7d5a2a7ca864a402d70ce2f08267e38]Huay Xai[/wiki], [wiki=601aebf4afb1db3fdb5c88f3cdda23ef]Laos[/wiki] - Six hours by bus (from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal, east of the old town, daily 08:30) to the border where you can catch a boat across the Mekong River to the Lao side (bus will actually stop about 1 km shy of the border, tuk-tuks will be waiting to take you the remainder of the way). From there, slow (2-day) and fast (6-8 hour) boats ply the Mekong to Luang Prabang. Buses are also available to Luang Prabang and north to Luang Namtha.
  
  [wiki=73db3ca90e0214db1330de2fde56ed11]de:Chiang Mai[/wiki]
  [wiki=3d95f75ae1a8b7bf0f859720f9753746]es:Chang Mai[/wiki]
  [wiki=4834c05673a4828ad70f145ced9e13db]fr:Chiang Mai[/wiki]
  [wiki=dc51a695ed90450005cee6c635f0909b]it:Chiang Mai[/wiki]
  [wiki=549b804df5e1de47d2efec7ea7299b53]ja:チェンマイ[/wiki]
  [wiki=7a0d371d9fe9777affde12cc230f9207]nl:Chiang Mai[/wiki]
  [wiki=a97ca565ee5d9a3e2920db88756d309e]pt:Chiang Mai[/wiki]
  [wiki=395adcc6c1d9da75f5dd9d85736bc04b]zh:清迈[/wiki]
  
  [wiki=0501e3d259798b08598cf83e977e718c]wts:Category:Chiang Mai[/wiki]
  [[Wikipedia:Chiang Mai]]
  [wiki=da58ccdf69e3977554fadadbd0c3685d]World66:asia/southeastasia/thailand/chiangmai[/wiki]

Points of InterestTailandia

Parks - Monuments - Memorials
Parks - Monuments - Memorials
Parks - Monuments - Memorials
Tri Trang Beach
Tri Trang Beach
Phuket
Khao Kham Buddhist Park
Khao Kham Buddhist Park
Phuket
King Rama IX Park
King Rama IX Park
Phuket
Phuket Zoo
Phuket Zoo
Phuket
Chalong Beach
Chalong Beach
Phuket
Tri Trang Beach
Tri Trang Beach
Patong
King Rama IX Park
King Rama IX Park
Patong
Chalong Beach
Chalong Beach
Patong
Wat Suthat
Wat Suthat
Bangkok
Democracy Monument
Democracy Monument
Bangkok
Lumpini Park
Lumpini Park
Bangkok
Golden Mount
Golden Mount
Bangkok
Wat Chana Song Khram
Wat Chana Song Khram
Bangkok

Airport - Transportation
Airport - Transportation
Airport - Transportation
Phuket (HKT)
Phuket (HKT)
Phuket
Chiang Mai (CNX)
Chiang Mai (CNX)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai International Airport
Chiang Mai International Airport
Chiang Mai
Phuket (HKT)
Phuket (HKT)
Krabi
Hua Hin Airport
Hua Hin Airport
Hua Hin
Mae Hongson Airport
Mae Hongson Airport
Mae Hong Son
Chiang Rai Airport
Chiang Rai Airport
Chiang Rai
Phuket (HKT)
Phuket (HKT)
Patong
Bangkok (BKK)
Bangkok (BKK)
Bangkok

Town

Patong

Phuket

District
District
District
Karon
Karon
Phuket
Rawai
Rawai
Phuket
Phuket Downtown
Phuket Downtown
Phuket
Rajaphat University, Dusit & Sunantha Campus
Rajaphat University, Dusit & Sunantha Campus
Bangkok
Klong Toi
Klong Toi
Bangkok
Pom Prap
Pom Prap
Bangkok
Sam Sen
Sam Sen
Bangkok
Suan Lumphini
Suan Lumphini
Bangkok
Thung Maha Mek
Thung Maha Mek
Bangkok
Yan Nava
Yan Nava
Bangkok
Sukhumwit
Sukhumwit
Bangkok
Siam Square
Siam Square
Bangkok
Chinatown
Chinatown
Bangkok
Ratcha Thewi
Ratcha Thewi
Bangkok

Golf Courses - Country Clubs - Tennis Clubs
Golf Courses - Country Clubs - Tennis Clubs
Golf Courses - Country Clubs - Tennis Clubs
Ban Yan Tree Golf Club
Ban Yan Tree Golf Club
Phuket
Lock Palm Golf Club
Lock Palm Golf Club
Phuket
Mission Hills Golf Resort 
Mission Hills Golf Resort 
Phuket
Country Club Golf Course
Country Club Golf Course
Phuket
Loch Palm Golf Club
Loch Palm Golf Club
Phuket
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course
Hua Hin
Loch Palm Golf Club
Loch Palm Golf Club
Patong
Phuket Country Club Golf Course
Phuket Country Club Golf Course
Patong
Springfieldvilage Golf
Springfieldvilage Golf
Cha Am
Hua Hin Micford Golf
Hua Hin Micford Golf
Pran Buri

Landmark
Landmark
Landmark
Blue Canyon Country Club
Blue Canyon Country Club
Phuket
Phuket Bus Terminal
Phuket Bus Terminal
Phuket
Clock tower
Clock tower
Phuket
Old Phuket town - Sino-Portugese houses
Old Phuket town - Sino-Portugese houses
Phuket
Sino-Portugese Old Building
Sino-Portugese Old Building
Phuket
Khao Rang
Khao Rang
Phuket
Koh Sirey Temple
Koh Sirey Temple
Phuket
Sarakul Stadium
Sarakul Stadium
Phuket
Largest Buddha Statue
Largest Buddha Statue
Phuket
Clock tower
Clock tower
Patong
Largest Buddha Statue
Largest Buddha Statue
Patong
Sarakul Stadium
Sarakul Stadium
Patong
Khao Rang
Khao Rang
Patong
Sino-Portugese Old Building
Sino-Portugese Old Building
Patong
Old Phuket town - Sino-Portugese houses
Old Phuket town - Sino-Portugese houses
Patong
Koh Sirey Temple
Koh Sirey Temple
Patong
Grand Palace
Grand Palace
Bangkok
Wat Arun, Temple of the Dawn
Wat Arun, Temple of the Dawn
Bangkok
Wat Mahatat Yuwarajrangsarit
Wat Mahatat Yuwarajrangsarit
Bangkok
Chitralada Palace Compound
Chitralada Palace Compound
Bangkok
Dusit Palace
Dusit Palace
Bangkok
Parliament of Thailand
Parliament of Thailand
Bangkok
Rama VIII Bridge
Rama VIII Bridge
Bangkok
Wat Saket
Wat Saket
Bangkok
China town, Sampeng
China town, Sampeng
Bangkok
Wat Ratchanadda
Wat Ratchanadda
Bangkok
Bangkok City Hall
Bangkok City Hall
Bangkok
UNESCAP and United Nations
UNESCAP and United Nations
Bangkok
Bangkok Flower Market
Bangkok Flower Market
Bangkok
Memorial Bridge
Memorial Bridge
Bangkok
Manang Kasila Manorhouse
Manang Kasila Manorhouse
Bangkok
Chatuchak Weekend Markets
Chatuchak Weekend Markets
Bangkok
Ekamai Bus Terminal
Ekamai Bus Terminal
Bangkok

Beaches
Beaches
Beaches
Kata Beach
Kata Beach
Phuket
Karon Beach
Karon Beach
Phuket
Patong Beach
Patong Beach
Phuket
Kammala Beach
Kammala Beach
Phuket
Kata Noi Beach
Kata Noi Beach
Phuket
Karon 2 Beach
Karon 2 Beach
Phuket
Hat Surin Beach
Hat Surin Beach
Phuket
Pa Tong
Pa Tong
Patong

Institution

Rajabhat Phuket University

Phuket

Rajabhat Phuket University

Patong

Chulalongkorn University

Bangkok

Monument or Landmark
Monument or Landmark
Monument or Landmark
Chalong Temple
Chalong Temple
Phuket
Two Heroines Monument
Two Heroines Monument
Phuket
Chalong Temple
Chalong Temple
Patong
Two Heroines Monument
Two Heroines Monument
Patong
Victory Monument
Victory Monument
Bangkok
Royal Thai Monastery
Royal Thai Monastery
Bangkok
July 22nd Circus
July 22nd Circus
Bangkok

Stadiums - Arenas - Athletic Fields

Boxing stadion Phuket

Phuket

Boxing stadion Phuket

Hua Hin Railway Station

Hua Hin

Hualumphong Train Station

Bangkok

Hua Lamphong Railway Station

Bangkok

Region
Region
Region
Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son
Karon
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
Karon
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai
Karon
Nan
Nan
Karon
Lamphun
Lamphun
Karon
Lampang
Lampang
Karon
Phrae
Phrae
Karon
Tak
Tak
Karon
Sukhothai
Sukhothai
Karon
Uttaradit
Uttaradit
Karon
Kamphaeng Phet
Kamphaeng Phet
Karon
Phitsanulok
Phitsanulok
Karon
Phichit
Phichit
Karon
Phetchabun
Phetchabun
Karon
Uthai Thani
Uthai Thani
Karon
Nakhon Sawan
Nakhon Sawan
Karon
Nong Khai
Nong Khai
Karon
Loei
Loei
Karon
Sakon Nakhon
Sakon Nakhon
Karon
Khon Kaen
Khon Kaen
Karon
Kalasin
Kalasin
Karon
Maha Sarakham
Maha Sarakham
Karon
Roi Et
Roi Et
Karon
Chaiyaphum
Chaiyaphum
Karon
Nakhon Ratchasima
Nakhon Ratchasima
Karon
Buriram
Buriram
Karon
Surin
Surin
Karon
Sisaket
Sisaket
Karon
Narathiwat
Narathiwat
Karon
Chai Nat
Chai Nat
Karon
Sing Buri
Sing Buri
Karon
Lop Buri
Lop Buri
Karon
Ang Thong
Ang Thong
Karon
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Karon
Sara Buri
Sara Buri
Karon
Nonthaburi
Nonthaburi
Karon
Pathum Thani
Pathum Thani
Karon
Bangkok
Bangkok
Karon
Phayao
Phayao
Karon
Samut Prakan
Samut Prakan
Karon
Nakhon Nayok
Nakhon Nayok
Karon
Chachoengsao
Chachoengsao
Karon
Chon Buri
Chon Buri
Karon
Rayong
Rayong
Karon
Chanthaburi
Chanthaburi
Karon
Trat
Trat
Karon
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi
Karon
Suphan Buri
Suphan Buri
Karon
Ratchaburi
Ratchaburi
Karon
Nathon Pathon
Nathon Pathon
Karon
Samut Songkhran
Samut Songkhran
Karon
Samut Sakhon
Samut Sakhon
Karon
Phetchaburi
Phetchaburi
Karon
Prachuap Khiri Khan
Prachuap Khiri Khan
Karon
Chumphon
Chumphon
Karon
Ranong
Ranong
Karon
Surat Thani
Surat Thani
Karon
Phangnga
Phangnga
Karon
Phuket
Phuket
Karon
Krabi
Krabi
Karon
Nakhon Si Thammarat
Nakhon Si Thammarat
Karon
Trang
Trang
Karon
Phatthalung
Phatthalung
Karon
Satun
Satun
Karon
Songkhla
Songkhla
Karon
Pattani
Pattani
Karon
Yala
Yala
Karon
Yasothon
Yasothon
Karon
Nakhon Phanom
Nakhon Phanom
Karon
Mukdahan
Mukdahan
Karon
Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani
Karon
Udon Thani
Udon Thani
Karon
Amnat Charoen
Amnat Charoen
Karon
Nong Bua Lam Phu
Nong Bua Lam Phu
Karon
Sa Kaeo
Sa Kaeo
Karon
Prachin Buri
Prachin Buri
Karon

Khao Yai National Park

County
County
County
Thawi Watthana
Thawi Watthana
Bangkok
Bang Bon
Bang Bon
Bangkok
Thung Khru
Thung Khru
Bangkok
Bangkok Noi
Bangkok Noi
Bangkok
Dusit
Dusit
Bangkok
Samphanthawong
Samphanthawong
Bangkok
Bang Kho Laem
Bang Kho Laem
Bangkok
Din Daeng
Din Daeng
Bangkok
Khlong Toei
Khlong Toei
Bangkok
Lak Si
Lak Si
Bangkok
Sai Mai
Sai Mai
Bangkok
Lat Phrao
Lat Phrao
Bangkok
Prawet
Prawet
Bangkok
Khan Na Yao
Khan Na Yao
Bangkok
Nong Chok
Nong Chok
Bangkok
Taling Chan
Taling Chan
Bangkok
Nong Khaem
Nong Khaem
Bangkok
Chom Thong
Chom Thong
Bangkok
Phra Nakhon
Phra Nakhon
Bangkok
Bang Sue
Bang Sue
Bangkok
Yan Nawa
Yan Nawa
Bangkok
Pathum Wan
Pathum Wan
Bangkok
Huai Khwang
Huai Khwang
Bangkok
Don Mueang
Don Mueang
Bangkok
Phra Khanong
Phra Khanong
Bangkok
Bueng Kum
Bueng Kum
Bangkok
Min Buri
Min Buri
Bangkok
Bang Khae
Bang Khae
Bangkok
Rat Burana
Rat Burana
Bangkok
Bang Phlat
Bang Phlat
Bangkok
Bangkok Yai
Bangkok Yai
Bangkok
Khlong San
Khlong San
Bangkok
Ratchathewi
Ratchathewi
Bangkok
Chatuchak
Chatuchak
Bangkok
Bang Kapi
Bang Kapi
Bangkok
Lat Krabang
Lat Krabang
Bangkok
Phasi Charoen
Phasi Charoen
Bangkok
Bang Khun Thian
Bang Khun Thian
Bangkok
Pom Prap Sattru Phai
Pom Prap Sattru Phai
Bangkok
Sathon
Sathon
Bangkok
Phaya Thai
Phaya Thai
Bangkok
Bang Khen
Bang Khen
Bangkok
Wang Thonglang
Wang Thonglang
Bangkok
Suan Luang
Suan Luang
Bangkok
Bang Na
Bang Na
Bangkok
Saphan Sung
Saphan Sung
Bangkok
Thon Buri
Thon Buri
Bangkok
Bang Rak
Bang Rak
Bangkok
Watthana
Watthana
Bangkok
Khlong Sam Wa
Khlong Sam Wa
Bangkok

Convention & Meeting Facilities - Civic Centers

Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre

Bangkok

Underground Railway Station

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta

Climate

By plane

By train

Timetables and ticketing options

By Local Bus

By songthaew

By tuk-tuk or samlor

By taxi

By motorbike or motorcycle

By bicycle

By car

On foot

Hiring a car or minivan with driver

Tours

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

Other temples

Museums

Gardens and nature

Elephants

Hilltribe villages

Muay Thai

Cinema

Festivals & exhibitions

Massage

Motorcycling

Rafting

Zipline canopy tours

River adventures

Sport

Swim

Food tours

Buddhism

Shamanism

TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)

Thai boxing (Muay Thai)

Tai Chi and Qi Gong

Thai cooking

Thai language

Thai massage

Myanmar (Burma)

Individual stores

Malls

Markets

Ware factories

Japanese

Vegetarian

Bars and pubs

Live music

Nightclubs

Gay bars

Coffee

Hotels

Medical Tourism

Laundry

Crime

Scams

Smoke

Water

Dogs

Motorbikes

Blacklist

Medical

Dental

Shipping and Postal Services

Internet

Thailand Post

Telephone

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