The City of Temples
CHIANG MAI
Welcome to Chiang Mai, Part of our Thailand Travel Series – Come with us as we spend a month living in Chiang Mai – Thailand’s Cultural Heart in the North - Tucked into the misty mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a city where ancient temples, rich traditions, and modern creativity coexist in perfect harmony. Once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, today it’s a haven for travelers seeking authentic Thai culture, mouthwatering street food, lush jungle adventures, and a slower, more soulful pace of life. Whether you're exploring historic old town alleyways, learning to cook Thai cuisine, or heading into the hills to visit elephant sanctuaries and hill tribe villages, Chiang Mai offers a unique experience at every turn.
On this blog, you'll find guides and tips with everything you need to plan your journey — from insider tips and travel guides to where to stay, what to eat, and the best ways to explore this enchanting northern gem.
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WHY CHIANG MAI
The largest city in northern Thailand, but far removed from the chaos of Bangkok, Chiang Mai is actually the second largest after Bangkok. With it's history and culture dating as far back as the Lanna Kingdom in the 14th-century. Chiang Mai blends ancient history with a laid-back, unassuming creative energy that makes it one of the most beloved travel destinations in Southeast Asia.
Start here:
Everything you need to know about Chang Mai in 2025
The Best Markets in Chiang Mai
The Best Temples in Chiang Mai
Get Your International Driving Licence for Thailand - You need it
Must Do's + Best Things to do in Chiang Mai 2025
Posts coming soon...
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A Magical Sunrise at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
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Our digital nomad life in Chang Mai
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A day in the life of a worldschooling Mum in Chang Mai
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Grocery shopping in Thailand Chang Mai Comparison
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Tips to budget and save money whilst staying in Chang Mai
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A fine dining birthday experience in Chang Mai
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Michelin street pancakes in Chang Mai
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Mango sticky rice
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Famous Chiang Mai Food: Khao Soi, Gaeng Hang Lay + more
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Thai iced tea
TOP THINGS CHIANG MAI
A Ramble through The Old Town
Eat The Best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai
Visit the oldest temple in Chiang Mai (300 temples) Wat Chiang Man
Centuries-old temples
Wander through colourful street markets
Head into the mountains in search of waterfalls & hill tribe villages
Meditating in a 700-year-old temple
sipping coffee at a jungle café
Spend the evening browsing local art at a street market.
Cooking class
Ethical elephant sanctuary
Night Bazaar
Food at the Night Market
Monk Chat
1 Day Meditation Retreat with Phra K.K
Wat Suan Dok Walking Meditation
Morning at Wat Umong Magical Temple
Baan Kang Artist Village + Workshops
Doi National Park
The Best Chiang Mai Markets
Whether you're shopping for souvenirs, trying local food, or just soaking in the atmosphere, Chiang Mai’s markets are an essential part of the local experience. It's one of the best ways to support local artisans and businesses while making beautiful memories in this culturally rich northern Thai city.
Our Best Things to do in Chiang Mai
This is our list of really good things to do in Chiang Mai, for those spending more time in the city, mixing daily life with sightseeing, and likely with kids in tow. This isn’t just a tourist checklist; it blends must-sees, slow moments, and local gems because with our guides we want to share with you all the things to do in Chiang Mai city that allow you to experience the city rather than just see it.
CHIANG MAI TRAVEL BLOG
Plan Your Trip to Chiang Mai
These links will help you plan and book your dream holiday to Thailand. From International flights to Chiang Mai to domestic internal flights within Thailand to Chiang Mai. Bus tickets to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai on a budget. Or The Overnight Sleeper Bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Then once at your Chiang Mai hotel or accommodation, the best tours and guides that we recommend to get the most out of your holiday. We've also included handy book club reads and essential Thailand guides such as The Lonely Planet Guide for Thailand that we love, as well as our personal pick travel essentials. Things that we can't be without on a trip with kids. Some personal recommendations from Fletch such as the SPF tinted lip protector that stops her breaking out in cold sores. (life saver!). The UVA/UVB Sun Tent that helps you spend all day at a beach without having to pack up for sleeps in the room. To re-usable straws to help combat single use plastic waste that is damaging Thailand marine life and more travel hack items that will make your travel life a breeze. Click on the links to book what you need. Bon Voyage or as we say when in Thailand - kŏr hâi dern taang doi sà-wàt-dì-pâap (in Thai!)
Travel Insurance
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Find family cover insurance to Thailand
Thailand Guides
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Chiang Mai Travel Guides for Thailand