Chiang Mai

Understand Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Province is the main cultural and transport hub of northern Thailand. The provincial capital is known for its walled old city, Lanna temples, markets and contemporary neighbourhoods, while the wider province extends across 25 districts and more than 20,000 square kilometres of mountain and valley landscapes.

Choose a district to match the trip you want. Mueang Chiang Mai contains the old city and the main urban base; Mae Rim and Mae On offer access to gardens, mountain scenery and village stays; Chom Thong is the gateway to Doi Inthanon National Park; and Chiang Dao is a base for the province's northern mountains. Distances between districts can be substantial, so check the map and journey time before booking accommodation.

Chiang Mai International Airport is the principal air gateway, Chiang Mai railway station is the northern terminus for State Railway of Thailand services, and road routes connect the city with the province's outlying districts. Airport transfers and local transport options can change, so confirm current arrangements with the airport, railway or operator before travel.

Thailand's cooler season generally runs from mid-October to mid-February, while the rainy season usually lasts from mid-May to mid-October. Mountain conditions can differ from the city, and haze can affect northern Thailand during the late dry and hot season; check current Thai Meteorological Department forecasts, Air4Thai readings and park notices before setting out.