Chiang Mai

Historic temples, hilltribes, adventure trekking and handicrafts. Chiang Mai, Thailand's second city, and major northern province offers more than most destinations...

Located 700 miles north of Bangkok, surrounded by the soaring mountains that straddle Laos, China and Burma, this fascinating part of Thailand offers a unique cultural experience. It's another side of Thailand...

You can find out more with our Guide to Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai's hotels offer a wealth of impressions: from striking rustic resorts that reflect the stylistic legacy of the Lanna Kingdom, to quaint teak cottages that nestle beside river or mountain, via downtown luxury resorts aimed at families to holistic spa resorts that bring about deep tranquility, there's something here for everyone. And, what's more, for a price that won't squander the budget. On our Chiang Mai Hotels page you can search by type of property, or by location, price or name.

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If you like you're souvenirs crafted by hand, leave plenty of space in your bag - you're going to need it! The Chiang Mai region is famous for exquisite lacquerwork, painted umbrellas, ethnic arts, hand made paper and teak furniture. In fact, the north of Thailand has been a centre of arts and crafts for centuries, and to this day, continues to be where they assemble in the highest numbers. No wonder Chiang Mai is one of the best places to shop in the country. Several vibrant markets represent its pinnacle, and while each has its own ilk of interesting wares - be it antiques, woodcarving, artworks or silks - the two main venues among visitors are the eclectic Night Bazaar and the pedestrianised Weekend Market. Chiang Mai also now sports a couple of upmarket shopping malls if you're craving global brands.

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If you like you're souvenirs crafted by hand, leave plenty of space in your bag - you're going to need it! The Chiang Mai region is famous for exquisite lacquerwork, painted umbrellas, ethnic arts, hand made paper and teak furniture. In fact, the north of Thailand has been a centre of arts and crafts for centuries, and to this day, continues to be where they assemble in the highest numbers. No wonder Chiang Mai is one of the best places to shop in the country. Several vibrant markets represent its pinnacle, and while each has its own ilk of interesting wares - be it antiques, woodcarving, artworks or silks - the two main venues among visitors are the eclectic Night Bazaar and the pedestrianised Weekend Market. Chiang Mai also now sports a couple of upmarket shopping malls if you're craving global brands.

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It's no Bangkok, but Chiang Mai has a diversity of nightlife that rarely fails to yield a memorable night out. There are folksy pubs and bars with river views and live bands, high-energy clubs with packed floors, ordinary beer bars hosted by friendly girls, and several hip bars catering to well-to-do Thais and the city's sub-cultures. There's even a quirky new breed of bar doing the rounds: converted VW vans complete with full bar, sound system, even stools. And a couple of cabaret shows - Blue Moon Cabaret and Simon Cabaret - lend the city a welcome dash of ladyboy glam.

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Once the capital of the 12th century Lanna Thai Kingdom, Chiang Mai has a unique heritage reflected in the architectural style of the area's distinguished temples. No visitor can lay claim to understand this heritage if they haven't enjoyed the stunning views and equally stunning temple complex found at the top of Doi Suthep National Park - which towers 1,685 metres above the city. Other venerated temples are easily encountered around town, as is the 600-year-old moat which defines the old city. There are also several museums in town, and the Chiang Mai Zoo - with its night safari and rare species (including two adorable Pandas) - is well worth the journey.

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Wild and mountainous, the region around Chiang Mai and neighbouring Chiang Rai has adventure written all over its lofty hills and deep valleys. Rafting, hiking, elephant trekking, mountain biking make the north a fascinating region to explore. Take a guided trekking tour for the day and meet colourful tribes, or try a soft adventure tour lasting several days. Visit the city's many wats, climb up Doi Suthep or take in a dinner show with a City & Culture Tour. Chiang Mai's tours are legion, and the memories they yield long-lasting.

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Getting There:
From Bangkok, it's a short 70 minutes flight to Chiang Mai. Regular flights operated by Thai International and Thai Airways Domestic leave daily throughout the year, although schedules may be subject to seasonal changes. Please check  http://www.thaiairways.com for details of fares and schedules)