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.
Languages
ThaiCurrency
Thai Baht (THB)Trending Trips
Unforgettable Journeys.Classic Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Phuket
Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceDeluxe Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Phuket
Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceThe Spirit of Thailand: A Women's Journey
Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun Temple, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceThailand for Foodies
Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceEssential Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Koh Samui
Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and The Grand PalaceSpiritual Thailand: Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun Temple, and Chiang MaiBest of Northern Thailand: Temples, Trails & Elephant Tales
Hua Hin, River Kwai, Bangkok, The Grand Palace, and Chiang MaiActive Thailand: Hike, Bike & Hilltribes
Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun Temple, Bangkok, and The Grand Palace
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.
Most Popular Time to Travel
Know when to go.
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.















