The top sights, highlights, tours & travel itinaries curated by our Travel Experts.
Picturesquely situated in the mountains, Chiang Mai is considered the second capital of Thailand and "Rose of the North". The metropolitan region with almost one million inhabitants was the seat of the Kingdom of Lanna in former times. Today the energy of the city attracts visitors from all over the world.
No matter whether you are travelling in the jungle park or taking a tour from temple to temple, the impressions of golden pagodas, exotic mountain people and delicious street food will linger on for a long time. A trip is especially recommended from November to the end of January. Less
The symbol of the city
The impressive national park
A magnificent temple in the heart of the city
The magnificent temple complex, whose entrance is guarded by two dragon statues, is the landmark of Chiang-Mai. The central shrine houses a seated Buddha statue which is revered as holy. Those interested in sports use the excursion to the mountain for hiking. Those who reach the top are rewarded with a beautiful view over the jungle region with its golden pagodas. But also cheating with a borrowed moped or a Songthaew taxi is allowed for you.
The temple, built in the 14th century, lies in the middle of a royal flower garden. The many white Chedi shrines also house the ashes of family members of the Thai royal family. However, the highlight is a relic of Buddha from Sri Lanka and a 400-year-old golden statue of the Enlightened One. Wat Suan Dok is part of the Buddhist University and a popular meditation retreat. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays you also have the opportunity to have a consultation with the monks.
Only two hours from Chiang-Mai is this amazing park, which is enthroned on the highest peak of Thailand at 2,565 meters. Two impressive pagodas in honour of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit rise out of the garden with several waterfalls and colourful flowerbeds. On your way to the roof of the kingdom you will pass impressive waterfalls and mountain villages, which regularly invite you to take a break. It is also worthwhile to explore the huge area not only on foot, but also with a private chauffeur or moped.
In the heart of the old town of Chiang-Mai is the magnificent temple of Wat Phra Singh. Golden ornaments and intensive colours decorate the main hall, in which a Buddha statue can be seen. Works of art from the Lanna period and a Chedi with royal bones are further sights of this charming place. After a visit, you can still walk over the market at the foot of the complex, buy a souvenir or enjoy fresh juices and tea specialities.
A spectacular mountain panorama awaits you here, especially in the morning hours. During this time the Doi Chiang Dao is shrouded in a mysterious mist that reaches as far as Myanmar. The fragrant deciduous and mixed forests are not only ideal for hiking, but also provide a home for rare animals such as the Indochinese tiger, collar bears and spring parrots. Picturesque waterfalls and hot springs will inspire you and invite you to take a pleasant bath.
The unique atmosphere makes you forget the ascent to Doi Ang Khang: Enchanting flower fields in yellow, red and orange as well as streets lined with lovely cherry blossoms take you to a true paradise during your Chiang Mai vacation. In the King's agricultural centre you will learn more about the sustainable cultivation of winter plants. A Chinese plum garden or a hanging strawberry bed will also tempt you to visit. However, since it is a bit fresh here, you should bring a jacket. In January there can even be minus temperatures. Less
TourlaneCare