Overview
Take a trip to Chiang Mai on your Thailand Vacation
The city of Chiang Mai is located in the northern region of Thailand, approximately 700 km away from Bangkok. Located in Chiang Mai Province, among the highest mountains in Thailand, Chiang Mai sits at an elevation of 316 metres, giving it a more temperate climate. Once considered a major trading route, the city runs along Ping River, a major tributary to the Chao Phraya River.
Chiang Mai, meaning ‘new city,’ was founded by King Mengrai in 1296 and succeeded Chiang Rai as the capital of the Lanna kingdom. Nearby Burma (now Myanmar), as well as troops of the Mongol Empire, were constant threats, so the city was surrounded by a wall and moat. Eventually occupied by the Burmese in 1556, Chiang Mai later became part of Siam in 1775. Chiang Mai started growing economically and culturally and soon became the unofficial capital of Northern Thailand.
Today, Chiang Mai’s walled city is its historic centre and features 30 ancient Buddhist temples. One of the most famous is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. Founded in 1383, this temple overlooks the city from Doi Suthep Mountain, located 13kms away, and stands as one of Chiang Mai’s cultural icons and can be experienced on Chiang Mai tours.
Amidst its cultural heritage and found on the outskirts of the city, Chiang Mai features an elephant farm, where visitors can take elephant rides through the lush jungle, leading to the nearby Karen Hill Tribe Village, home to various tribes including the Long Necks, best known for neck rings worn by their women.
At a Glance
Languages
ThaiCurrency
Thai Baht (THB)Trending Trips
Unforgettable Journeys.12 Trips Found
Showper page
9
12 Trips Found
Classic Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Phuket
Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceDiscover the beauty of Thailand on this ideal introductory tour, from bustling Bangkok to tranquil Chiang Mai and stunning Phuket. Experience rich culture, ancient temples, and serene beaches on your vacation.
10 days
From US$2,738/p.p.
Request a Quote
Deluxe Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Phuket
Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceExperience the essence of Thailand with a journey through Bangkok's bustling streets, Chiang Mai's serene temples, and Phuket's stunning beaches. A sensory adventure awaits!
10 days
From US$3,722/p.p.
Request a Quote
The Spirit of Thailand: A Women's Journey
Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun Temple, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceExperience Thailand on a women’s journey of culture, wellness, and unforgettable beauty.
12 days
From US$3,678/p.p.
Request a Quote
Thailand for Foodies
Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceSavour Thailand’s flavours on this private-guided journey, from vibrant markets and serene temples to hilltribe traditions and palm-fringed shores.
11 days
From US$2,903/p.p.
Request a Quote
Essential Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Koh Samui
Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceDiscover the wonders of Thailand, from the stunning Grand Palace in Bangkok to the serene beaches of Koh Samui. Experience rich culture and breathtaking landscapes throughout your journey.
10 days
From US$1,792/p.p.
Request a Quote
Spiritual Thailand: Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun Temple, and Chiang MaiUnveil the spiritual essence of Thailand with this journey through Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Experience serene temples, lush landscapes, and engaging cultural encounters.
7 days
From US$1,441/p.p.
Request a Quote
Best of Northern Thailand: Temples, Trails & Elephant Tales
Hua Hin, River Kwai, Bangkok, The Grand Palace, and Chiang MaiNorthern Thailand invites you to explore its landscapes. Join cooking classes, visit serene temples, and experience memorable elephant encounters on lush trails.
13 days
From US$4,539/p.p.
Request a Quote
Active Thailand: Hike, Bike & Hilltribes
Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun Temple, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceExperience the thrill of adventure in Northern Thailand on this journey, blending culture, stunning hikes, biking excursions, and rich hilltribe encounters.
11 days
From US$3,629/p.p.
Request a Quote
Don't see the
perfect trip idea?
Request a custom quote.
Turn your travel dreams into reality with Goway. Our customized vacations take travellers to all corners of the world.
Classic Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Phuket
Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceDiscover the beauty of Thailand on this ideal introductory tour, from bustling Bangkok to tranquil Chiang Mai and stunning Phuket. Experience rich culture, ancient temples, and serene beaches on your vacation.
10 days
From US$2,738/p.p.
Request a Quote
Deluxe Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Phuket
Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceExperience the essence of Thailand with a journey through Bangkok's bustling streets, Chiang Mai's serene temples, and Phuket's stunning beaches. A sensory adventure awaits!
10 days
From US$3,722/p.p.
Request a Quote
The Spirit of Thailand: A Women's Journey
Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun Temple, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceExperience Thailand on a women’s journey of culture, wellness, and unforgettable beauty.
12 days
From US$3,678/p.p.
Request a Quote
Thailand for Foodies
Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceSavour Thailand’s flavours on this private-guided journey, from vibrant markets and serene temples to hilltribe traditions and palm-fringed shores.
11 days
From US$2,903/p.p.
Request a Quote
Essential Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Koh Samui
Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceDiscover the wonders of Thailand, from the stunning Grand Palace in Bangkok to the serene beaches of Koh Samui. Experience rich culture and breathtaking landscapes throughout your journey.
10 days
From US$1,792/p.p.
Request a Quote
Spiritual Thailand: Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun Temple, and Chiang MaiUnveil the spiritual essence of Thailand with this journey through Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Experience serene temples, lush landscapes, and engaging cultural encounters.
7 days
From US$1,441/p.p.
Request a Quote
Best of Northern Thailand: Temples, Trails & Elephant Tales
Hua Hin, River Kwai, Bangkok, The Grand Palace, and Chiang MaiNorthern Thailand invites you to explore its landscapes. Join cooking classes, visit serene temples, and experience memorable elephant encounters on lush trails.
13 days
From US$4,539/p.p.
Request a Quote
Active Thailand: Hike, Bike & Hilltribes
Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun Temple, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceExperience the thrill of adventure in Northern Thailand on this journey, blending culture, stunning hikes, biking excursions, and rich hilltribe encounters.
11 days
From US$3,629/p.p.
Request a Quote
Don't see the
perfect trip idea?
Request a custom quote.
Turn your travel dreams into reality with Goway. Our customized vacations take travellers to all corners of the world.
What do the experts say?
Thailand is a friendly destination with fun & warm people, great food, and impressive cultural and beach experiences. Simply wandering neighbourhoods, visiting temples, shops & viewpoints, and eating at local restaurants are what I enjoy most when visiting Thailand. The south of Thailand is a special location with beautiful scenery and a seemingly laid back lifestyle, so visiting this area is always a special and memorable experience.
The experience of travelling from island to island on longtail boats in the south of Thailand is something that still resonates with me after many years.
For families, visiting a sustainable community in Koh Yao Yai can bring the trip to life with local interaction. For honeymooners, personalizing memorable experiences with special menus, in-room dining and more can really elevate the experience for Goway guests.
All the people that I met at the hotel, restaurants, and parks were always smiling at me. I can feel that they are grateful to all international tourists. A Thai smile inspires me most and makes me want to revisit.
Karen Long Neck hill tribe village
The Royal Flora temple is a great photo opportu...
A mature male bull elephant in the jungle near ...
Meditation Buddha statue under a Bodhi tree
Phra That Doi Suthep Pagoda on Doi Inthanon mou...
Most Popular Time to Travel
Know when to go.
Place
Conditions
Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall
Chiang MaiPartly Cloudy
34°C / 94°F
35mm / 1.4"
Weather data is based on monthly averages.Popularity rating
-
Travel Stories
Get inspired about Your Trip to Thailand
Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter.
With our newsletter, you’ll get access to regular communications that inspire you and help you explore the world your way.Exclusive Savings
Insider Benefits
Trending Stories
ExcellentBased on 5,298 ReviewsThis was the first time we had utilized Goway. We wanted a custom itinerary for a 3 week Italy, Athens and Greek Island adventure. Edwina Brislane was receptive to our goals for the trip, had helpful suggestions and reacted well to our requested revisions. Lisa Dachuk helped "tie a ribbon" on the trip and ensured we had considered all aspects of the experience. Lisa dealt quickly with a couple of requests while on the trip and celebrated a successful trip with us.
We enjoyed working with both Edwina and Lisa. Their knowledge and enthusiasm contributed to our very memorable trip.Dan & GailI had a great experience booking Australia and New Zealand trip through Goway Travel. Lori Mezzoro was very helpful and organized. All the recommendations she made were very good. I had a great trip with my kids.LauraI recently traveled to Greece with friends, and our entire experience was exceptional thanks to the planning support we received from Avery at GoWay. Every part of our itinerary was organized with care, accuracy, and great attention to detail.
Our accommodations — Hera Hotel Athens and Sofitel Athens Airport — were comfortable, well‑located, and exactly what we needed. All airfares from Calgary and the multiple transfers (airport to city centre, city centre to Piraeus Port, and back again) were perfectly coordinated and made the trip completely stress‑free.
The 7‑night Idyllic Aegean Cruise was a major highlight. It was beautifully arranged and gave us an unforgettable way to explore the islands. Our excursions were equally impressive:
Skip‑the‑Line Acropolis & Acropolis Museum timed entry, which made sightseeing smooth and efficient
Classical Greece: Olympia, Delphi & Meteora, a breathtaking and well‑paced journey through some of Greece’s most iconic historical sites
Avery was consistently responsive, knowledgeable, and proactive throughout the planning process. Every confirmation, transfer, and timing detail was handled flawlessly, allowing us to simply enjoy the trip without worrying about logistics.
I highly recommend GoWay Travel — and especially Avery — for anyone planning a trip to Greece. This was one of the best travel experiences I’ve had, thanks to their outstanding service and organization.LorraineMy husband and I just returned from a wonderful 2 week trip to Chile, South America arranged for us by Goway Travel. Every detail of the trip was outstanding. The hotel choices were perfect for us as were the tours Goway arranged. All the guides were prompt, friendly and very knowledgeable. Our Destination Specialist, Karen Larrota, did an fantastic job setting up the itinerary. Communication with her during the booking process was excellent. The Goway customer service team reached out to us several times during the trip (as did Karen) which was very reassuring.
We have traveled with Goway previously and will surely do so again. Regina ChaplesAn Extraordinary Tour Guide in Xi’an China Leo a blessing we will never forget
There are some people who come into your life and leave footprints on your heart that will last forever, Leo was one of those people for us.
My husband, Keith, and I dreamed of visiting China for more than 30 years and Leo helped make that dream an unforgettable blessing. He was more than a tour guide. He was a wonderful teacher, a caring soul, and a blessing from God.
His knowledge of Chinese history and culture was remarkable from the terra-cotta warriors to the ANCIENT city wall, the Monastery, and the local art gallery, Leo brought every experience to life. He taught us so much and helped us appreciate the beauty and history of China in ways we will never forget.
What touched me most was his compassion for my husband Keith, knowing Keith had difficult breathing and walking long distance and walking Leo thoughtfully arranged a wheelchair so he could enjoy the journey with everyone that kindness meant more to me than words can express
Leo patience, professionalism kindness and genuine care for our group. May every moment special. He make sure we were comfortable learned something new and enjoyed authentic Chinese food and created memories we will cherish for a lifetime
I truly believe God placed special people in our lives for a reason, and Leo was certainly one of those blessings for our group. We are forever grateful for the knowledge, laughter, compassion, and beautiful memorial. He gave us
I recommend Leo wholeheartedly, to anyone visiting Xi’an China. You will leave with more than photograph you will leave, with knowledge appreciation, and memories that stay in your heart forever
Leo may God continue to bless you, protect you, and guide you as you touch the lives of travelers from around the world. Thank you for being such a beautiful part of our China story. You will never be forgotten
With love and gratitude
Lisa & KeithLisa PaulMy wife and I have just returned from our 5th trip with Goway. Once again everything ran smoothly from first day to last. This trip was the 9 day all Ireland tour which covered both north & south Ireland. The tour was operated by Rabbies tours whom we used in Scotland and the 16 passenger van only had 6 passengers including us.Other than a couple of days the weather was prety good although the wind did get a bit wild. The pub food was delicious & i got a taste for real Guiness. We spent a few extra days in Dublin and found it very expensive, the excange rate didn't help. Our travel consultant Jaqueline personalised the trip and was very helpful. George CroomeWe were able to see the perfect amount of sites during our nearly 3 weeks in Australia. Sam Day was extremely knowledgable about every step of the travel process. He was incredibly patient with all the demand my wife and me had. We really look forward to using his services again.Alan RosenbergMy husband and I booked a tour to Portugal using Goway travel. Working with Phoebe was a pleasure. She responded promptly and professionally to all of my requests, concerns and queries. Our trip was filled with lovely details and unexpected treasures.Kristen RemsenMy trip to China was a wonderful experience, and everything was planned very well. The itinerary was well organized by Ms. Harpreet Litt. The arrangements were smooth, and the overall trip was enjoyable.
I appreciated the attention to detail and the excellent coordination throughout the journey. It was a memorable experience, and I would highly recommend this trip to anyone planning to visit China!edytaHarpreet Litt provided us with a rich experience for our week. She offered good choices for local tour companies. We had a very good guide in Osaka. She is an Osaka resident with good English skills. She took extra pains to include opportunities we requested Osaka was a beautiful city at night. My photos of restaurants and street food were colorful and fun. Food was good too.Noel Chrisman
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified