Chiang Mai
Thailand's northern capital is a slow-paced cultural counterpoint to Bangkok — a moated old city of 300 temples, night markets, cooking schools, elephant sanctuaries, and jungle trekking. The Yi Peng lantern festival in November transforms the sky above the old city into a sea of floating lights. Chiang Mai is where travelers come to stay a week and remain for months.
Budget Breakdown by Tier
All prices are estimates for one person. Double for couples (hotels are often the same price for 1–2 guests).
Budget Smart
Hostels, street food and local restaurants, songthaew trucks, cooking class
Business Class
Boutique hotels, cooking classes, elephant sanctuary, hill tribe trekking
Luxury
Rachamankha or Four Seasons Tented Camp, private elephant experience, spa
Top Experiences
Where to Stay
Deejai Backpackers Chiang Mai
What guests say
“Best hostel in Chiang Mai — inside the moat, beautiful pool, and the staff organize the best ethical elephant day trips. Stayed 2 weeks, not 2 days.”
“Social, beautiful, and perfectly located. The breakfast by the pool every morning looking at the temple walls felt like a dream.”
Rachamankha Hotel
What guests say
“The most beautiful hotel in Chiang Mai — a Lanna-style courtyard retreat inside the old city walls. Ancient teak furniture, antique objects, a library, two pools.”
“To stay at Rachamankha is to be removed from time. The architecture is genuinely extraordinary and the restaurant serves the finest Thai food in the city.”
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle
What guests say
“The most extraordinary nature resort in Asia — a tented camp above the Mekong at the Golden Triangle with rescued elephants as neighbors. Truly once-in-a-lifetime.”
“We bathed an elephant in the river each morning. The camp is extraordinary, the wilderness is real, and the food is world-class. Nothing else compares.”
Getting There
Find the best flight deals to Chiang Mai. Compare hundreds of airlines and get the lowest fares.
Free Concierge Planning
Plan My Trip to Chiang Mai →
Tell us your budget, dates, and vibe — we'll build you a full personalized itinerary within 24 hours. No commitment required.
Tours & Activities
Book a WDC curated experience in Chiang Mai — private guides, skip-the-line access, and unique insider activities at every budget tier.
Book a Tour in Chiang MaiGetting Around
Car Rental
Rent from locals or traditional agencies for maximum flexibility exploring Chiang Mai.
Search Rentals via Turo →Private Transfer
Door-to-door service with professional, vetted drivers.
Available at Business tier and aboveTravel Insurance
Protect your investment with comprehensive travel and medical coverage.
Get a Quote →Local Insider Tips
- ✓Avoid March and April — agricultural burning creates dangerous air quality
- ✓The Sunday Walking Street runs through the old city and is the finest market in Thailand
- ✓Book Elephant Nature Park in advance — slots fill weeks ahead
- ✓A cooking class (USD30) is one of the best value experiences in Southeast Asia
- ✓The red songthaew trucks are cheaper than tuk-tuks for getting around the old city
Compare Hotel Deals in Chiang Mai
Search thousands of hotels in Chiang Mai — compare prices, read reviews, and book with free cancellation on most rooms.
Powered by Booking.com · WDC may earn a commission at no extra cost to you
Related Destinations
More amazing places in asia to inspire your next trip.
Book Your Trip to Chiang Mai
Compare deals across top travel platforms and save.
Ready to Visit Chiang Mai?
Book your perfect trip with our member pricing, exclusive deals, and hands-on concierge support.