Chiang Mai exists in a bubble of calm beauty. This is Thailand’s northern capital and it’s very different to Bangkok in the south. Its layout accommodates the numerous monasteries and temples, but in between are the houses and hotels which make this a very residential historic centre, all arranged around the towering wát. Some of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai can be found in amongst the homes of the locals in the historic heart of town, but if your idea of accommodation involves modern design or decor then you should probably look to the modern city which has sprung up in a ring around the historic heart.

Wherever you choose to stay you’re just a short drive, in almost any direction, from the wonderful rainforest reserves, quiet country villages and remote wát of northern Thailand. After all, Chiang Mai is located in the Himalayas. But before you head out of town make sure you enjoy the excellent local cuisine and learn something about Chiang Mai’s incredible history, dating from its founding in the 13th century as the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom.

What not to Miss

• People come here for the temple complexes, and one of the things which has kept Chiang Mai so special is its peaceful, remote location. Until the 1920s the only way you could get here was by trekking on the back of an elephant or up the river, which was a long and often arduous journey. Once you reach the walled city you come upon around thirty painstakingly decorated temples, dating from the founding of the kingdom. The old city is only about a mile square so it’s easy to get between them. Wat Phan Tao is probably the one of the highlights of the old city, sitting just in the shadow of War Chedi Luang, which is probably another highlight. And if you had to choose to see just three of the old city’s temples then Wat Phra Singh should definitely be the third. It’s Chiang Mai’s most revered temple and has an amazing Lion Buddha and an enormous sanctuary decorated with a mosaic of tiles.
• Outside the walls of the old city are another 250 or so temples, most of them within the modern ring, but the Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, with its gold-plated chedi, is about 18kms from town. While you’re out here you might want to visit the lush Royal Palace Gardens which are about 4kms down the road.
• As well as the temples many visitors head for the museums, galleries and cultural centres. And Chiang Mai also has some wonderfully ornate gardens and peaceful, shady parks.
• Chiang Mai’s famous Night Bazaar is to the east of the historic city, closer to the nightlife of Loi Korh Road. You’ll find Chiang Mai’s oldest market by the river, Warorot is an amazing place of converted walkways and tiny statues. It’s right next to the flower market.
• The other thing a lot of people do when they visit Chiang Mai is take an elephant tour or visit an elephant park or sanctuary. But there are loads of weird and wonderful tours and activities offered to visitors.

The city is a fascinating destination and our pick of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai are all perfect bases from which to start exploring.

The Best Places to Stay in Chiang Mai

For Resort Charm

• The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai is a magical, 60 acre sanctuary complete with pools and spa and a timetable of activities which encourages you to experience this region’s cultural and architectural heritage as well as the resort’s charms. The 123 rooms and suites are decorated with a blend of colonial and Thai styles and there are some seriously luxurious features if you’re looking for a real treat.

For modern chic

• Akyra Manor Chiang Mai is a reasonably priced five star hotel with 30 stylish, edgy suites and rooms, decorated in somewhat moody tones, with an amazing rooftop bar and pool and a gourmet Italian restaurant. Perfect for a city break.
• The North Hill City Resort is a smart property set within lush ground just to the south of Chiang Mai town. The contemporary decor is sophisticated and functional and there’s a great spa and restaurant. A comfortable place to stay if you’re not quite ready to be within the visitor-bustle of town.

For a central location

• If you’re looking for peace and elegance, Rachamankha might be a good choice for you. It has just 24 rooms, arranged around a series of shady courtyards, plenty of art and a wonderful fusion restaurant. There are restrictions on children under 12.

For a riverside location

• 137 Pillars House is a 30 room boutique hotel right on the river, yet feeling a world away from Chiang Mai’s busy streets. The facilities are first class and there’s an atmosphere of old world charm. The suites, wth their big baths and huge beds are fantastic, but families will probably be more interested in their interconnecting rooms.

For an Apartment or private Villa

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Chiang Mai?

• Chiang Mai International Airport is just 10minutes drive from the centre of town, and a 70 minute flight from Bangkok. But many airlines fly here direct, or at least with a Bangkok stopover. You can also arrive by train from Bangkok or by bus.
• If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer.
• Peak season for visitors to Chiang Mai coincides with the region’s best weather, which is between October and April. Cooler, with light breezes, this is also when the town and region holds some of its most spectacular festivals.

Still not sure which to book?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai,
• Expand your search to include all our Thailand recommendations,
• or Contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Chiang Mai