Chiang Mai

Thailand

"Ancient Temples, Night Markets & Thailand's Cultural Capital"

Chiang Mai is one of Southeast Asia's most beloved and livable destinations - a charming walled city in northern Thailand's mountainous countryside that offers a completely different Thailand experience from the beach resorts of the south. The ancient moat-surrounded city center contains over 300 ornate Buddhist temples, including the dazzling Doi Suthep perched above the city on a sacred mountain. By night, the Saturday and Sunday Walking Streets transform into Asia's greatest outdoor markets. Chiang Mai is also the base for extraordinary experiences: ethical elephant sanctuary visits, jungle trekking to hilltribe villages, Thai cooking classes, and muay thai boxing gyms.

Doi Suthep Temple, Sunday & Saturday Night Walking Streets, Elephant Nature Park (ethical sanctuary), Old City Temples (Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh), Thai Cooking Classes, Night Bazaar, Hilltribe Village Trek

November-February (cool season)

Book elephant sanctuary at least 2 weeks ahead; avoid elephant riding (unethical); rent a scooter for Doi Suthep and surrounding villages

Excellent value destination. Perfect for cultural immersion. Best paired with Bangkok for a classic Thailand itinerary.