Chiang Rai got a lot to offer and it is best to spend at least one night discovering the city. Here are the best hotels and budget hostels for where to stay in Chiang Rai.
When traveling around Northern Thailand, Chiang Rai is one of the most popular places to visit. The place has some of the most beautiful temples in Thailand, unusual museums, and the giant Buddha statue in the countryside. It takes about 4 hours traveling journey from Chiang Mai, and most people will choose to take a guided day tour from Chiang Mai.
But I would really recommend staying at least one-night in Chiang Rai to fully explore this awesome place. Plus, there are many great accommodations, ranging from cheap backpacker dorms to more upmarket hotels, making it an appealing place to stay for a laid-back holiday.
If you are decided to spend your nights in Chiang Rai, I have listed the best budget and cheap accommodation for your options. Let’s jump right to it, here are my recommendations for where to stay in Chiang Rai.
Where To Stay in Chiang Rai
When looking for where to stay in Chiang Rai, you can find various accommodation types around the town. From luxury hotels to mid-range and budget hostels, all offer impeccable service to make sure you have a wonderful stay in the city. Here are some highly rated hotels and hostels in a good central location:
Pro Tips: The accommodation price is very reasonable even those high-range hotels in Chiang Rai. Just make sure you book ahead to guarantee the best price, especially during festival season.
The Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel and Convention
Luxury: The Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel and Convention is the best option if you’re looking for 5-star luxury hotel in the city with world-class service. This accommodation is decorated in a modern Thai style! It has a great location with easy access to all the attractions in the city and it offers a great service for its price.
The property offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. The room is perfect and spacious, and the bed is extremely comfortable. The staff is incredibly accommodating, helpful, and friendly. Highly recommended if you are looking for where to stay in Chiang Rai.
MORA Boutique Hotel
Luxury: Are you on the search for a superb boutique hotel in Chiang Rai? This one’s for you!
MORA Boutique Hotel is a beautiful property with an incredible design very well thought out. It features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, free bikes, and a fitness center. The room is spacious and extremely clean.
Plus, the location is fantastic as it is the central location in town. It is literally 2 steps away from the Saturday Night Walking Street and has a wide selection of restaurants and bars nearby! I truly recommend it for the best stay in Chiang Rai with a great location!
Nak Nakara Hotel
High-Range: Nak Nakara Hotel is considered one of the most popular hotels in Chiang Rai for high-range choice. It is located in the town center and close to many restaurants and shopping. Just a short walk to the walking street market and it’s definitely the best choice if you’re looking for where to stay in Chiang Rai!
Plus, the property is decorated with modern Lanna style in vibrant colors. The rooms are extremely comfortable and spacious. The staff is really friendly, and helpful and makes sure you have a wonderful stay. Besides, this hotel also offers free bicycle rental, unlimited free bottled water, and fresh fruit every day! A great value hotel.
Le Patta Hotel
High-Range: Le Patta Hotel is another option for a comfortable stay in the city. It has some amazing facilities and amenities that will help you have a comfortable stay; plus, you will be a short walk from the city’s landmarks such as Old Bus Station, Clock Tower, and Night Bazaar! The room is spacious with a private balcony. The staff is super friendly and always willing to help.
Blue Lagoon Hotel
Mid-Range: Blue Lagoon Hotel is another wonderful choice in the city for a few-night stay. This nice 3-star hotel is amazing with a modern open layout design and beautiful pool area. Plus, the rooms are very nice and clean. The location of the hotel is central and perfect for the different excursions around the city. Everything is perfect.
Where To Stay in Chiang Rai On a Budget
If you’re traveling to Chiang Rai on a budget and looking for best simple accommodation and hostel, look no further! You will be surprised to find out that there are literally many amazing budget hotels in the city with cheap price. Below you can find the best ones we have selected for you:
Connect Hostel
Connect Hostel – This 2-star hotel is an amazing place with great service for the best budget stay in Chiang Rai. The property features accommodation with free bikes, free private parking, a shared lounge, a terrace, and some of its good facilities. The staff is super-duper friendly and nice! Choose from the private rooms and dormitory rooms, I’m pretty sure you will have a great stay here.
Baan Mai Kradan Hostel
Baan Mai Kradan Hostel has a great location, not very far from the city center within 10-minute walk. It features accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking, and free Wi-Fi in all rooms. The staff is super friendly and the rooms are clean. Generally a calm chilled atmosphere, with plenty of places to sit and read or relax.
Spinomad hostel
Spinomad hostel – This cozy hostel is conveniently located within walking distance of the morning market, bus station, night bazaar, clock tower, and many more attractive temples. Plenty of food all around the place. The property is also very clean and the staff is extremely friendly to make you feel at home.
Overview: Best Stay in Chiang Rai
All in all, here is the best pick of hotels and hostels for your best stay in Chiang Rai. Hopefully you have already chosen a place to stay among all my lists above! I hope I haven’t made it too difficult for you to choose, as all the options are great and they offer an amazing service!
Lastly, if you need more travel inspiration to Thailand, here you can find all our articles about this wonderful place:
If you’re visiting Chiang Rai for the first time, make sure that you don’t miss these attractions with this Chiang Rai itinerary. This travel guide blog will tell you all you need to know to plan your trip.
There’s no denying that exploring Chiang Rai is one of the coolest and most unmissable things to do in Northern Thailand. Your travel journey to Northern Thailand would not be complete without a visit to Chiang Rai.
We absolutely loved our trip to Chiang Rai and visited the most famous attractions in Chiang Rai including the White Temple, Black House, and Blue Temple. Even after all the temples I had seen so far, I still found these breathtaking and unique. That’s why we’ve decided to write this itinerary about Chiang Rai so that hopefully you can get some inspiration for an upcoming visit.
Not sure where to begin to visit Chiang Rai in one day? Here you will find the Chiang Rai travel guide blog with plenty of tips to plan your trip. Start planning your trip with all the things to do in this complete 1-day Chiang Rai itinerary.
How To Get To Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai has become more and more popular. Travelers can get to Chiang Rai by flights, trains, or buses, departing on the transportation option chosen and distance.
By Flight: Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) operates regular flights from Bangkok and Phuket with domestic flights. It only take about 1 hour to fly to Chiang Rai in Thailand. Besides, Chiang Rai is also connect with certain international flights from China, Macau, Malaysia, and Singapore. The flight fare can be cheap if you manage to grab the deal.
You can search for cheap flights here: Skyscanner.
From the airport to the downtown area, it is about 10 km and takes about 30 minutes. Chiang Rai Airport buses run frequently from Chiang Rai Airport to the city center. If taking the Chiang Rai Airport bus seems not convenient enough for you, book a private transfer from/to Chiang Rai Airport and enjoy hassle-free traveling between the airport and the center of Chiang Rai.
By Bus: Chiang Rai is accessible by bus. From Bangkok, the journey takes you about 11 hours for the daytime and 13 hours for the overnight bus.
Important to know: There are a few main bus terminals in Chiang Rai: The Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 for provincial buses and Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2 for long-distance buses. Make sure you know where is the stop for the journey.
Getting to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai
This is the most popular route to get to Chiang Rai. Travelers can travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai by bus or minivan. Regular buses connected Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and the journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and which class of ticket you buy. You can always hoop on the local bus, but it is easy to book the bus transfer online.
Chiang Rai is a fairly small town and easily navigates on foot. Unfortunately, most of the attractions are located outskirts and not accessible by public transport. There are a few options when it comes to getting around in Chiang Rai.
By Tuk-Tuk: Tuk-tuks can be fun when getting around in Chiang Rai. But this transport option is good for a short distance ride and it is generally slower. You may still require other transport options if you are getting to some attractions. Besides, make sure to set the price with the driver before getting into the tuk-tuk.
By Tour: Many tour companies offer tours that incorporate a lot of the best sights. This is a good option for hassle-free arrangements on the Chiang Rai itinerary.
How Many Days For Chiang Rai?
One full day for Chiang Rai is doable but it is rather rushed. If you have the time, I would recommend spending at least two days in Chiang Rai and seeing what the city had to offer at a more relaxed pace. That will allow you to break up the traveling and enjoy the atmosphere of Chiang Rai.
In fact, many people visit Chiang Rai on a day trip from Chiang Mai with a tour. While that’s definitely possible, bear in mind that you will be spending 8 hours in a minivan in one day (4 hours to get there and 4 hours back).
We recommend checking out some of these tour options for hassle-free arrangements:
One of the best things about the Chiang Rai accommodations is the price is very reasonable even those high-range hotels in Chiang Rai. I am sure you can find the best stay that suits your budget type.
Here are some highly rated hotels and hostels in a good central location:
Chiang Rai Travel Guide Tip: Room running fast during the festival season. Please make sure you book ahead to guarantee the best price.
Things To Do in Chiang Rai Itinerary
To help you make the most of your time, here are all the best things to do in the Chiang Rai itinerary to help you to explore all the unique attractions when getting here.
Things to do in Chiang Rai Itinerary:
Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
Baan Dam Museum (The Black House)
Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)
Longneck Karen Tribal Village
Golden Triangle
Chiang Rai Travel Guide Tips: There is a strict dress code to visit the temples in Chiang Rai and you should make sure to abide by it. Wear a long dress or skirt, or long pants, and avoid tank tops.
Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
Wat Rong Khun or better known as the White Temple is one of the main highlights of Chiang Rai. Opened to visitors as late as 1997, Wat Rong Khun is one of the most beautiful temples I have ever visited. The architecture and grounds are stunning. The contrast between the sparkling white of the buildings and the green of the grass and blue sky is truly gorgeous.
In fact, Wat Rong Khun is a truly remarkable piece of artistry and the story of the artist who created the temple is fascinating. The thought, innovation, and workmanship that has gone into this restoration by Thai artist, Chalermchai Kositpipat. He restore the original temple which was left in a bad state using his own money.
With his hard work and design, the temple is reborn in a more modern style but still influenced by traditional designs.
It’s a pleasant walk around, admiring the sculptural pieces, intricate details, and bizarre features. The buildings are ornate, covered with brilliant white paint and mirror pieces, glimmering in the bright mid-day sun. Simply Gorgeous in every aspect!
Kindly note that photos are not allowed in the main hall.
There are other beautiful sites to see and you’ll be impressed by one of the beautiful golden buildings in the ground. Surprisingly this is the toilet in Wat Rong Khun.
Getting To White Temple: The White temple is located a 20-minute drive out of town, so it is best to get there by taxi, tuk-tuk, or songthaew. Alternatively, a public bus cots just 20 baht from bus station terminal 1 to take you there. The entry fee for the White Temple is 50 baht.
Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) Address: Phahonyothin Road, Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai. Operating Hours: Daily from 8:00 until 17:00 (Start closing at 16:30) Entrance Fee: 50 baht
Pro Tips: The White Temple is full of tourists, so it can be a little overwhelming. It is advised to arrive early before 10:00 to avoid the large amounts of day-trippers from Chiang Mai.
Baan Dam Museum (The Black House)
Close by is the Black House which is best coupled together for the Chiang Mai itinerary.
Baan Dam Museum, also known as The Black House is completely opposite the White Temple. Locals often refer to the White Temple and Black House as the “heaven and hell of architecture”, and you’ll understand why when you visit both as the contrast is quite apparent.
The Black House is a large rambling collection of buildings that houses the creations of the artist Thawan Duchanee. Most of it is derived in some way from animals – bones, skins, water buffalo horns, or an elephant skeleton. It even has the ashes of the temple’s architect housed inside, perched proudly by his portrait once you walk through the doors. Expect to be surprised at every turn.
What an eye-opener museum and should not be a miss on your Chiang Mai itinerary.
Baan Dam Museum (The Black House) Address: 333 Moo 13, Nang Lae, Chiang Rai. Operating Hours: Daily from 9:00 until 17:00 Entrance Fee: 80 baht
Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)
Wat Rong Seur Ten, also commonly called the Blue Temple is another unique temple to visit in Chiang Mai. Although the White Temple gets all the attention in Chiang Rai, this colorful Blue Temple should be included in your Chiang Rai itinerary while discovering Northern Thailand.
Wat Rong Seur Ten is absolutely beautiful in vivid blue where the architecture, artwork, and sculptures using different hues of blue, make a great color combination. It is not a very large temple and could easily be covered in detail in about half an hour. Not too many tourists so made it a pleasure to visit and slowly made our way around the place. A beautiful place to go in Chiang Rai and worth a visit.
No entrance fee is required.
Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) Address: 306, Moo 2 Maekok Rd Rim Kok, Chiang Rai. Operating Hours: Daily from 7:00 until 20:00 Entrance Fee: Free!
Long Neck Tribal Village
Baan Tong Luang Village is the easiest place to visit the unique hill tribal in Chiang Rai. It features a 5 Hill Tribe exhibition village and provides a unique chance to meet with local people who live very different life. Among them, the famous Karen Long Necks (Paduang) and the Big Earring (Akha) tribe are part of the tribal village to visit.
As the name said, the Longneck Karen Village is a tribal village whose women continuously wear stacked brass rings on their necks under to sink, thus making the neck appear to be longer. You’ll have the chance to pose for photographs with members of the tribe when visiting the village.
I have mixed feelings about visiting the tribe and also wondering should I include this information in the Chiang Rai itinerary. It must be painful for women for wearing the brass ring from young. Apparently, they are refugees from Mayanmar and they are not permitted into the town. They rely on aid, local produce, and what they can make from tourists to help them out in the long run.
Although it’s not an authentic tribal village, it’s still nice to see the villager enjoy their life. Worth a trip over if you don’t mind paying the 300 baht for an admission fee.
Golden Triangle
Golden Triangle is the place where the borders of three countries of Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand meet on the mighty river Mae Kong.
We took a boat ride into the Golden Triangle where the rivers of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand converge. It is like a town where restaurants, shops, massage parlors, and eateries can be found here. Interestingly, we are allowed to cross over to Laos by boat and shop at the special economic trading zone in Laos. Nothing exciting but it’s a nice experience to see the scenery of Laos and Myanmar with a boat ride.
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar and Weekend Market
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is the night market that takes place in the town every night. If you are staying in town, it is easy to walk to the night bazaar as it is situated in town right next to the Chiang Rai Bus Terminal No.1.
Just like any other Thailand night market, the night bazaar is a good way to enjoy the country like a local and have a taste of their local street food. You can find various street food, Thai cuisine, and drinks here. Besides, there is plenty of merchandise are sold here including fabrics, housewares, clothes, and souvenirs to bring back home.
Overview: A Visit To Chiang Rai
All in all, Chiang Rai is totally worth a day trip from Chiang Mai. It took us about a 4-hour traveling journey trip to get there and we were underwhelmed by both temples. It is a great day of adventure filled with so many stunning sights. We will not regret going since it was something we wanted to see and it’s better to experience it.
Did you enjoy this Chiang Rai travel guide blog? We have more Thailand travel stories to share for your holiday. Free feel to check it out.
The ultimate Chiang Mai travel Guide blog with a detailed itinerary helps you discover the most iconic attractions, the best places to visit, and things to do for 3 to 5 days. Let’s visit Chiang Mai!
Located in the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai is an essential stop for any traveler to Thailand. It is a cultural city in Thailand and has so many exciting attractions that you can plan for your trip. There are around 300 temples in the city of Chiang Mai with endless corners to explore.
When considering what to do in Chiang Mai, you’ll find that there is plenty to keep you busy. There are so many things to do, tasty eats, and hidden gems that can be included as part of your Chiang Mai itinerary during your trip. Whether you’re seeking culture, cuisine, or a beautiful view, for sure there is something for you.
In this Chiang Mai Travel Guide blog, we will share all the useful travel information and tips including how to get there, where to stay, and what to eat. Also, let’s check out our ultimate Chiang Mai itinerary for making the most of your time and enjoying Chiang Mai as much as we did.
Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand after Bangkok. Known as the city of temples, Chiang Mai is one of the most popular attractions in the country. With hundreds of Buddhist temples, there is much to fill your Chiang Mai itinerary. Apart from the many sacred temples, Chiang Mai is also known for its breathtaking nature. The highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon, is located just outside of Chiang Mai.
To make this a complete Chiang Mai travel guide, here are few quick answers you probably have when planning the itinerary.
How many days for Chiang Mai?
You will need at least two full days to enjoy the best of Chiang Mai City only. Plus, there are some attractions nearby that you can be coupled together for a total of 5 days to make your way through our Chiang Mai travel itinerary.
What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
That said, the best time to visit Chiang Mai is from November to January where the weather is cold and pleasant. But it is also peak tourist season so accommodation prices will be a bit higher.
How To Get To Chiang Mai
In order to get to Chiang Mai, most likely international travelers will land in Bangkok. From there, choose from a domestic flight or take an overnight train or bus to Chiang Mai. Some countries like Malaysia, Singapore, China, Taiwan, and South Korea offer direct flights to Chiang Mai.
To find a cheap flight to Chiang Mai, you can search for cheap flights here: Skyscanner.
By Flight: Chiang Mai is the main city hub in Northern Thailand and has countless daily flight connections between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The flight takes about one hour.
By Train: From Hua Lamphong Train Station in Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train Station will take you about 13 hours for overnight train and 11 hours during the daytime.
By Bus: It is also possible to take a bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. The journey takes around 10 hours to get you to Chiang Mai Arcade 2 Bus Terminal.
Chiang Mai Travel Tip: If you wish to travel to Chiang Mai by train or bus, you can reserve your ticket via Bookaway.
Getting Around in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai’s old town is fairly compact and easily walkable. There are many different options and it is best to combine them with various types of transportation options when getting around in town.
Scooter – Courageous travelers may choose to rent a car or a moped. The rental fee for a scooter is around 200-250 THB a day, and you got the flexibility to go around in Chiang Mai.
Songthaew – The local taxi truck is a popular option and you can also hire them for one full day. Just wave them off from the road in Chiang Mai, discuss the destination and negotiate the price.
Tuk-tuk – Also common in Chiang Mai. Slightly more expensive but easy to ride on for getting around in town for a short journey.
Grab – The e-hailing service is common in South East Asia including Thailand. Similar to Uber, you’ll need to download the app and the price is also reasonable.
Tour / Private Transfer – If you prefer a more relaxing experience, you may consider going on organized tours to all the attractions with good arrangements. It is best to hire a private transfer, especially if you are with a group or elderly.
Where To Stay
In general, Chiang Mai’s Old City (Old Town) is the best area to stay for first-time visitors to Chiang Mai. As long as you stay in the Central Town area, then you shouldn’t have any problems getting around.
High-Range: Phra Singh Village – A great luxurious place to enjoy some luxury in Chiang Mai.
Mid-Range: 99 The Gallery Hotel – A great mid-range hotel located in the heart of everything. The Sunday night market is one street over!
Budget: The Common Hostel – Popular budget stay for clean and comfortable stay.
While Nimman is a vibrant area for a relaxing stay in Chiang Mai. The area is less bustling, and family-friendly.
Luxury: U Nimman Chiang Mai is a stylish 5-star hotel with an outdoor pool and views of the mountain, located at U Nimman. Rooms have a terrace and hotel facilities include a pool bar, restaurant, and sauna. Extremely popular and best to reserve your room early!
High-Range: Moose Hotel Nimman is a great option for family travelers with kids. It is located in the best location in Nimman, and opposite with U Nimman. Everything you want is within walking distance.
Budget: Sakulchai Place is a great budget-friendly hotel located near Nimmanhaemin road and within walking distance of the night markets and Maya shopping mall. The rooms are simple but comfortable with great facilities.
If you plan to schedule your Chiang Mai itinerary around some incredible festivals, then you have a few options.
Flower Festival (February) is held in Chiang Mai on the first weekend of every February for over 3 days. For over 40 years, locals celebrates the beautiful flowers in bloom with parades, street markets, concerts, and amazing floral displays.
Songkran (April) is the Thai New Year’s national holiday. A giant water festival is held every year on the 13th- 15th of April throughout Thailand. The streets become a huge giant water fight with water guns which is a unique experience.
Yi Peng and Loi Krathong festival (November) take place on the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. During this time, Thais release paper lanterns into the night sky to symbolize letting go of misfortunes and making wishes as they do so. It is the most popular festival in Chiang Mai and booking is highly recommended for accommodation as the city is very busy at this time.
Things To Do in Chiang Mai Itinerary
Following this Chiang Mai Travel Guide blog, you’ll get to see many sides the city has offered. Our Chiang Mai itinerary will help to keep your trip planning from becoming overwhelming, it gives you all the necessary information you need to get going.
Things to do for 4-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Chiang Mai. Exploring Old Town and Temples.
Day 2: Doi Inthanon National Park.
Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary, Thai Cooking Class, or Thai Massage and Spa Experience.
Day 4 and Day 5: Side Trip from Chiang Mai.
Day 6: Relaxing at Nimman neighbourhood.
Goodbye Chiang Mai!
Day 1: Arrive Chiang Mai. Explore Old Town and Temples
We’ll start by assuming that you’re arriving in Chiang Mai and starting to explore the city in the morning.
On the first day of the Chiang Mai itinerary, we recommended you get to jump right into the best things to do in Chiang Mai around the city center. This way, you’ll be able to get your bearings and get a feel for the city before exploring further.
Pro Tips: If you prefer you can also do an organized tour in Chiang Mai Old City Tour, which will take you to all the most important temples in and around the city. Click here to book your Chiang Mai Temple tours!
Old Town and Tha Phae Gate
Chiang Mai Old Town is located within a large square inside the medieval city walls. It has over 300 temples and the majority of the important temples in Chiang Mai are all situated within this square. There are four gates to enter Chiang Mai old city, and the main gate is Tha Pae Gate – one of the most famous landmarks in Chiang Mai, dating back to the 13th century.
Spend some time wandering around and seeing the main sights in the Old City.
Exploring the Temples
Temples Visit in Chiang Mai
Next, continue your Chiang Mai itinerary with temple-hopping in the old town area.
Unfortunately, there are more than 300 temples in Chiang Mai dotted all over and around Chiang Mai. With so much to visit, you won’t able to see all of them. So we recommended visiting some of the most unique that you should definitely visit in the Chiang Mai itinerary.
The recommendation includes Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh (Golden Temple), and Wat Chedi Luang. Each of them displays different styles and is uniquely, and located close to each other in the Old Town area. You could do this itinerary on foot if you chose to, as well as on a scooter or with Grab.
Chiang Mai Travel Guide Tips: Make sure you have dressed appropriately, with your shoulders and knees covered when visiting the temples.
Wat Chiang Man
A good place to start for the temple hooping for the Chiang Mai itinerary is with the gorgeous Wat Chiang Man in the center of Old Town.
Established around 1296, Wat Chiang Man (also Wat Chiang Mun) is the oldest temple in the city and a must-see for anyone for your Chiang Mai itinerary. It is located on Ratchapakhinai Road inside the Chiang Mai Old City Walls.
The most famous part of this temple is the Chedi in the back, supported by elephant statues. The “Elephant Chedi” or “Chedi Chang Lom” is the oldest construction within the temple complex. The square base is built with 15 elephants emerging from it and carrying the Chedi on their backs.
The grounds of Wat Chiang Man are rather small and estimate to spend about 30 minutes in the temple complex.
Wat Chiang Man Address: 171 Ratchapakhinai Rd, Tambon Si Phum. Entrance Fee: Free! Estimate Time: About 30 minutes.
Wat Phra Singh
Also known as the Golden Temple, Wat Phra Singh is one of the popular sacred Buddhist temples within the walls of Chiang Mai old city. The temple complex is huge and is built in several buildings that are decorated with beautiful golden chedi. The main structures are stunning with their gliding rooftops, opulently curved external walls, and beautifully decorated paintings inside.
It is very enjoy walking around this beautiful temple’s grounds. The temples are very peaceful and full of detailed art. The interior is even more richly decorated than the outside, making it easy to see why it’s called the Golden Temple.
Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan Address: 2 Samlarn Rd, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District. Entrace Fee: 40 Baht Estimate Time: About 30 minutes.
Wat Chedi Luang
With a history that is over 600 years old, Wat Chedi Luang should be part of your Chiang Mai itinerary. It’s an awesome historical site and famous for its rocky and crumbling look. The Buddhist temple is very well-maintained for many years. The Chedi (pagoda) was partially destroyed during an earthquake many years ago, but most parts of the structure still remained in good condition.
There’s so much to see in Wat Chedi Luang. Travelers can walk around the expansive grounds, visit the famous ancient ruins and temples, and even chat with monks close by. A great place to respectfully experience Thai Buddhism.
Wat Chedi Luang Address: 103 Prapokkloa Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District. Entrace Fee: Free! Estimate Time: About 60 minutes.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
If you’re visiting Chiang Mai, Wat Doi Suthep is a must-visit. It is a splendid temple located in Doi Inthanon National Park Chiang Mai, about 15 kilometers from the city.
The temple complex is situated atop the hill with the serene surrounding. You can choose to walk up to 309 steps or take the electric tram (20 baht) to reach the gold glittering temple. It’s worth the easy hike with the beautiful view along the journey.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Ratchaworawihan
Similar to all the Thai temples, Wat Doi Suthep is so stunning with golden plated Chedi, Buddha statues, beautiful adornments, and intricate wood carving. The golden Chedi is particularly stunning on a blue sky day as the golden architecture really shines in the sunlight.
The place is fairly busy but all the people visiting the temple are quiet, humble, and serene. The viewpoint was just breathtaking and it is great to catch sight of Chiang Mai from the top. It is true pleasure for exploring the temple and not to be missed!
How To Get to Wat Doi Suthep: You can either hire a scooter or take a tuk-tuk from Chiang Mai and it will take you around an hour to reach the temple. Together with traveling time, it is advice to reserve at least 3 hours for your trip to Doi Suthep temple.
Chiang Mai Travel Guide Tip: Please remember to dress modestly or you could be denied entrance. Besides, you will also be asked to remove your shoes while walking around inside the main temple. There are shoe racks to store them or you could put them in your backpack.
Day 2: Doi Inthanon National Park
Besides the stunning temple, there awaits another highlight for you: lovely nature! There are two types of trips that you can do in Doi Inthanon National Park, with and without trekking. If you are physically able, I would recommend doing the trek.
During the visit, travelers can head up to Doi Inthanon National Park to experience the beauty of the forest and mountains. You’ll visit Thailand’s highest peak (Doi Inthanon Summit), the King and Queen Chedis (pagodas), the waterfall, and beautiful landscapes. A perfect day trip from Chiang Mai.
The most popular tourist attraction in Doi Inthanon National Park is the Grand Pagodas of Doi Inthanon. The Twin Royal Chedis are Pra Mahatat Noppamethanedon and Pra Mahatat Nopphonphusiri Pagodas, which are dedicated to King and Queen. It’s characterized by distinctive white and golden chedis and pagodas, which create a beautiful contrast.
The garden ground in Grand Pagodas of Doi Inthanon is also amazing and beautiful. You can take a quick walk across after visiting the main temple. This is also a great place for you to witness the sea of clouds that are often visible on a clear winter morning without having to hike.
Doi Inthanon Summit
Next, proceed to the Doi Inthanon Summit, highest point in Thailand and it can be reached by an easy hike.
The short trail will take you through a mossy forest with peaceful monks and many many travelers along the hike. The walking path will not take you more than 10 minutes to complete the journey. There is a signboard indicating you have reached the highest point in Thailand.
Nature Trekking Trail
Ang Ka Nature Trail is a short-circuit nature trail on the summit. It takes about 30 minutes to complete the trail. There is no viewpoint but only a nature tree for this easy hike. Anyone of any age can do it.
For hikers, you may consider the Kew Mae Pan Natural Trail which is significant long and beautiful. It offers unique forest phenomena, panoramic views, and serene surroundings. The viewpoint at Kew Mae Pan is picturesque and you can see the beautiful Twin Pagodas from there. It will take you about 2 to 4 hours to complete the circular path depending on your fitness.
Doi Inthanon Waterfalls
Wachirathan Waterfall
Besides, Doi Inthanon National Park is also home to the most magnificent waterfalls in Thailand. Mae Klang Waterfall, Mae Ya Waterfall, Siriphum Waterfall and Wachirathan Waterfall are some of the waterfalls that you can visit in the National Park. You may consider to stop by when visit Doi Inthanon.
On our way back from the summit, we visited Wachirathan Waterfall. It is located along the main Doi Inthanon road and a great place to stop for resting before proceed our journey. Be prepared to get a bit wet if you get close due to the spray.
Night Bazaar and Weekend Night Market
A great way to end your day on the Chiang Mai itinerary is to visit the night market. Chiang Mai has a daily Night Bazaar that opens on Chang Khlan Road. On Weekends, you may explore Sunday Night Market at Rachadamnoen Road or Saturday Night Market at Wua Lai Road.
Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market
The Sunday Night Market is the most happening and lively among all. Starting around 16:00, the street food stalls around the night market begin selling delicious hot meals and Thai street food. Among the most popular offerings are mango sticky rice, Thai noodles, and all sorts of meat grilled on sticks. Hop from stall to stall until you get your fill of the best Thailand cuisine.
Travelers can stop by for a leisurely night walk, do some shopping, and find some entertainment. There are many vendors selling handicrafts, paintings, clothes, and souvenirs for tourists to bring back home. Street performers and musicians also perform live in the street, adding to the atmosphere. Brave yourself and start shopping in Chiang Mai!
Chiang Mai Travel Guide Tip: If you’re not in Chiang Mai on a Sunday, there are other night bazaars and markets in the area. Although it is not that lively compared with the Sunday Night market, it is still a good place to sample some food and shop in Chiang Mai.
Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary
One of the most special things to do in Chiang Mai is to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary. There are a few options to choose from but the most important thing is you have to be ethical! That means no elephant rides are permitted.
The sanctuary is located about 1 hour ride out of downtown Chiang Mai and a free transfer is arranged at the cost of your visit. You will have the chance to take them for a little walk, feed them bananas, and wash them. This visit will provide an experience you will never forget!
We opted for a half-day morning visit to see the elephant. You can also coupled it together with a Thai cooking class or Thai massage session when back in town.
Thai Massage and Spa Experience
After returning from the Elephant Sanctuary, go for the Thai cooking class or Thai massage session when back in town. There are many Thai Massage and Spa Experiences in Chiang Mai to allow your stress to melt away. The price also various depending on your environment and professional level.
Here is some of the recommendation that you can consider:
Chiang Mai Travel Tips: It is always advised to do an appoitment early to secure your slot.
We decided to pamper ourselves at one of Chiang Mai’s most famous spas, the multi-award-winning – Let’s Relax Spa. It is located nearby our hotel and we could easily walk there. They offer professional therapists who work their magic with a plethora of massages and body treatments.
The price is not cheap compared with the street massage parlor but it is worth the money. Everything is perfect at that price.
Day 4 and Day 5: Side Trips from Chiang Mai
Side Trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
When visiting Chiang Mai, many great side trips are possible from Chiang Mai to spend for a 1 or 2 days trip. If you have extra days to spend, it is best to go beyond Chiang Mai and visit the place nearby.
Here is the best place for your Chiang Mai itinerary:
Chiang Rai – About 3.5 hours from Chiang Mai. The most famous attractions in Chiang Rai are the White Temple, Blue White, and the Black House.
Pai – About 3 hours from Chiang Mai. Pai is also famous for its beautiful nature where you can plan for a nature hike to Pai Waterfall, or explore the Pai Canyon.
We would recommend spending at least one night due to the long traveling journey. But if you are limited in time, a day trip from Chiang Mai is also doable and we recommended to engage with the tour to save the hassle.
Nimmanhaemin is the trendiest part of Chiang Mai. It is commonly known as Nimman and is based along the Nimmanhaemin Road. Nimman is filled with chic coffee shops and cafés, restaurants, stylish boutiques, and shops. There are plenty of things to do and see to keep you busy in this stylish neighborhood.
Spend some time wandering and go through the alleyway in Nimman. You’ll find some little coffee shops, cafes, or pastry shops for yourself. There are many hidden gems awaiting you to discover. We love the relaxing vibe and enjoy wandering around.
We love Thai food and definitely will not miss the chance to try as many as we can. Although Chiang Mai is far from a big city like Bangkok, the food scene is not all boring. Many restaurants are tastefully done up and their menu is creative and flavorful.
Some of the must-eat food in Chiang Mai are Khao Soi (Chiang Mai curry noodles), Sai Oua (Northern Thai Spiced Sausage), and Nam Prik (Thai Chili Dips).
We also enjoyed the street food and sample a lot of good food at the weekend night market. Besides, Chiang Mai is also having many nice cafes where you can have a cup of coffee and relax.
Generally, the food in Chiang Mai is reasonable and should cost less than 100 THB per meal. Expect to pay more if you opt for a classy restaurant in the city.
For more Chiang Mai best food and restaurants, read more:
All in all, we hope you enjoy our Chiang Mai itinerary blog post. I never thought that I would have so much fun exploring temples and explore the nature. It is truly a great place to visit and a true gem of Southeast Asia.
This Chiang Mai travel guide post will serve as a convenient 5 days Chiang Mai itienerary when planning your trip to this amazing city. Hope it help you plan your Chiang Mai trip better. Enjoy!
Looking for where to stay in Chiang Mai? This was my complete accommodation guide to help you find the perfect place to stay in Chiang Mai so that you can plan an unforgettable trip here!
Chiang Mai is one of the popular tourist destinations in Thailand and this city has so much to offer. With around 300 temples scattered around the city, there are endless corners to explore. It doesn’t take very long for visitors to fall in love with its culture, charm, and atmosphere.
When looking for where to stay in Chiang Mai, It can be overwhelming as the city is quite huge. The main area, Old Town is located within a large square that is surrounded by the old city wall and a moat. Most attractions are situated in this area and it is the most popular place to stay in Chiang Mai. But several other interesting neighborhoods have excellent accommodation options that worth recommended.
In this accommodation guide, we have carefully chosen recommendations of the 4 best neighborhoods and hotels if you are looking for where to stay in Chiang Mai. We will share the most popular areas and a few lesser-known areas with the best hotels pick to make your best stay here.
Looking for where to stay in Chiang Mai? The best area to stay in Chiang Mai is Old town, nearby night Bazaar, Nimmanhemin, and Riverside.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai for the first time – Old Town (Within the Moat). The Old City is also the best place to stay for budget travelers, with a plethora of backpackers’ hostels and budget guesthouses.
Best place to stay in Chiang Mai luxury – Nearby Night Bazaar area. There are many international hotels and great accommodations situated in the area. A popular place to stay in Chiang Mai for food, shopping, and nightlife.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai for relaxing – Nimman area and Nimmanhemin (West of the Moat). There are many cool places and hipster cafes can be found in the Nimman area. It is also good to stay for family travelers. A vibrant area for a relaxing stay in Chiang Mai.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai with a family – Chiang Mai Riverside (Ping River). It is quieter and a family-friendly area. Most hotels are built alongside the riverbanks which makes for a great atmosphere.
Below you can find my recommendations for the best areas and hotels pick to stay in Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai Old Town
Chiang Mai’s Old City (Old Town) is the best place to stay in Chiang Mai for first-time visitors. The Old Town is the heart and soul of Chiang Mai. It’s a perfect square, surrounded by a beautiful moat. The most important highlights and Thailand’s oldest Buddhist temples are located in this area.
Plus, Old Town is a walkable neighborhood. You can find plenty of different shops and a large range of affordable accommodations, restaurants, and bars in the area. All are easily accessible and within walking distance.
So, if you want to see everything that Chiang Mai has to offer, this should be your base during your visit!
Phra Singh Village
High-Range: Phra Singh Village – If you’re looking for a great luxurious place where to stay in Chiang Mai to enjoy some luxury, this one is for you! This superb 5-star hotel is a beautifully designed, peaceful, and luxurious sanctuary. The rooms are clean, spacious, and cozy. The property is located in the heart of the old town making it accessible to all the major temples as well as good shopping and restaurants. A great place to stay in the heart of Chiang Mai.
Chada Mantra Hotel
Mid-Range: Chada Mantra Hotel is a good hotel if you are looking for where to stay in Chiang Mai with an excellent location. The property is situated in the middle of old town and within walking distance to the local market, walking street, and lots of good restaurants and cafes nearby to eat and relax.
Great-sized rooms, large comfortable beds, and the staff are amazing. Most importantly, the price is also very reasonable. A lovely place to rest after a big day exploring.
99 The Gallery Hotel
Mid-Range: 99 The Gallery Hotel – Are you looking for a great mid-range hotel located in the heart of everything? You’ll find it here! This hotel is in a good location, a short walk away from nightlife, bars, and restaurants. The Sunday night market is one street over!
Besides, the property has new and modern facilities and amenities and all the rooms here are very clean and nicely decorated.
The Common Hostel
Budget: The Common Hostel – Wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai on a budget yet close to everything? You should check out this awesome place! This modern and cozy hostel is located in the center and it awaits with a 24-hour front desk, a lounge room, a fresh daily breakfast, and friendly staff. Not to forget complimentary bottles of water, coffee, and tea facilities can be enjoyed throughout the day.
It’s great to make friends and easy to meet new people in the hostel. Everything is clean, spacious, and comfortable. Highly recommended.
Nearby Night Bazaar
One of the great places to stay in Chiang Mai is the nearby night Bazaar. It’s a very popular area for tourists, especially for those who looking for shopping places. The place is always getting crowded at night and great place for party people looking for nightlife as well. The location is not located far away from the city center either, which is a great plus.
If you feel like this is the right place for you, here are the best hotels I have chosen for you in nearby the Night Bazaar.
Shangri La Hotel Chiang Mai
High-Range: Shangri La Hotel Chiang Mai is one of the best hotels if you wish to stay nearby with the night market. The location is superb and within a 10-minute walk to the main night market area. Else, finding a cab or tuk-tuk takes just 1 minute as there are available outside the hotel. The rooms are extremely cozy and well-maintained. Breakfast is tremendous with a large variety and top quality. Staffs are very nice and helpful. I definitely recommend it for a comfortable night’s sleep.
Besides, this is a kids-friendly hotel with activities catered for kids and is highly recommended for families.
Le Meridien Chiang Mai
High-Range: Le Meridien Chiang Mai is located in downtown on Changklan Road with a short walking distance from Tha Pae Gate and Warorot Market. The famous Night Bazaar with about 2 minute walk.
The room is spacious, perfectly clean, and comfortable. Breakfast is also opulent. Professional and friendly staff. Staying here for the great location, amazing views of the city, and many luxurious facilities!
My Chiangmai Boutique Lodge
Mid-Range: My Chiangmai Boutique Lodge is another great mid-range hotel located in the perfect place. It’s quiet but still so close to the downtown center and night Market. Everything is possible to get on foot and you can rest assured that you’ll be in the best location ever.
The property provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a bar, and a terrace. Perfect for holiday gateway if you are looking for where to stay in Chiang Mai.
Villa Thapae
Mid-Range: Villa Thapae is a cute little boutique hotel in the heart of Chiang Mai. The property is less than a 2-minute walk from Sunday Walking Street and a 5-minute walk from Chiang Mai Night Market. It is also within walking distance of many small restaurants, street food markets, and breakfast places. Still, the place is really quiet and relaxing although in the city center.
Villa Thapae is simple but cozy and decorated with great attention to detail. Super lovely and relaxed.
Night Bazaar Inn
Mid-Range: Night Bazaar Inn is another budget-friendly option if you are looking for where to stay in Chiang Mai on a budget. It has a great location and right next night bazaar, restaurants by the river. The property has lovely old-style Thai decorations that would please travelers. The rooms here are very clean and comfortable. Great value for money.
Nimman Area and Nimmanhaemin Road
Situated on the Northwest of Old Town is the trendy district of Nimman, which is also called Nimmanhaemin. I definitely recommend the Nimmanhaemin to anyone that wants a central location but they don’t want to stay in the hustle and bustle of the Old Town.
Many hip cafes, restaurants, bars, trendy shops, and hotels have established themselves here. There are hardly any significant sights in Nimman, but the area is perfect for cafe hopping. There are also many family-friendly hotel for family travelers. A vibrant cool area with a wide range of great accommodation options for all budgets.
U Nimman Chiang Mai
Luxury: U Nimman Chiang Mai is a stylish 5-star hotel with an outdoor pool and views of the mountain. The location is excellent which is located next to U Nimman. Everything is within easy walking distance. Rooms have a terrace and hotel facilities include a pool bar, restaurant, and sauna.
The breakfast is very nice, the variety of foods, taste are above expectation. Everything was fresh and just made was excellent. The price is also reasonable for this type of service. Extremely popular and best to reserve your room at U Nimman Chiang Mai early!
Moose Hotel Nimman
High-Range: Moose Hotel Nimman is a great option for family travelers with kids. It is located in the best location in Nimman, and opposite U Nimman. Everything you want is within walking distance. The hotel is new and clean. the room was very clean and spacious as well and the beds were also comfortable. Friendly services with nice complimentary snacks every day.
Stay with Nimman Chiang Mai
High-Range: Stay with Nimman Chiang Mai is a great hotel in Nimmanhaemin that has beautiful panoramic views of the city, free Wi-Fi all around the building, a fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool. Guests can enjoy access to a garden and a terrace. All the rooms have air-conditioning, satellite flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a bidet. It’s also surrounded by plenty of awesome places for eating and drinking!
Yesterday Hotel
Mid-Range: Yesterday Hotel offers charming accommodations with contemporary Thai and Colonial architecture with antique furnishings. All the spacious rooms are comfortable, with colonial-style decor. The property is well-located on Nimmanhaemin Road, a bustling, lively street of bars and restaurants but the street noise does not disturb the peace in the hotel. Bicycles can be rented for free for guests to explore the beautiful estate at leisure.
POR Santitham
Mid-Range: POR Santitham is a great area to stay if you’re looking for very good mid-range places in Chiang Mai. The property provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, and a garden. It has all the facilities and amenities you might need for a pleasant stay. The room is clean and spacious and the bed was very comfy. Staffs are extremely friendly and helpful. The location is also very convenient where you can find lots of street food nearby.
Sakulchai Place
Budget: Sakulchai Place is a great budget-friendly hotel located near Nimmanhaemin Road and within walking distance of the night markets and Maya shopping mall. It is very convenient for guests who would like to go to Nimman and the old town area. The rooms are simple but comfortable with great facilities.
Chiang Mai Riverside (Ping River)
Chiang Mai Riverside is one of the oldest parts of Chiang Mai and it has the feel of old Chiang Mai. The area is located on the right next to the Ping River (Maenam Ping) and most hotels are built alongside the riverbanks which makes for a great atmosphere. The location is a bit far away from the center but it can be easily reached by taxi or tuk-tuk.
There are some excellent resorts and accommodations that worth to recommended for laid-back travelers who looking for a quieter atmosphere. This area is also my highly recommended for people who are traveling with their family and kids.
Besides, Riverside is also a great places to stay during Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival.
Empress Premier Hotel Chiang Mai
Luxury: The Empress Premier Hotel Chiang Mai – This beautiful 5-star hotel is another great choice for all those of you that want to be spoiled during your stay in Chiangmai! The rooms are spacious and extremely gorgeous, incredibly clean, and very comfortable. Staying here also means that you’ll be surrounded by great restaurants and cafes. It’s located in the Riverside area, within a 15-minute walk to Old Town and to the night market. A perfect place to stay in Riverside, Chiangmai.
Centara Riverside Hotel Chiang Mai
High-Range: Centara Riverside Hotel Chiang Mai is a great option that offers views of the Mae Ping River and Doi Suthep Mountain. The property has a tasteful and modern design throughout the rooms and shared areas. All the rooms are soundproofed and very comfortable. Free shuttle service to Night Bazaar and Weekend Walking Streets is provided which is a great plus!
Rustic River Boutique
Mid-Range: Rustic River Boutique – This boutique hotel is housed in a nicely renovated house that provides a beautiful, quiet and comfortable stay. The location was perfect with proximity to great restaurants and the river. Everything was clean, the beds were comfortable and the rooms spacious. The staff is incredibly friendly and courteous. You will feel at home from the first moment and would stay here again any time. Great place with great value for money.
We Briza Hotel Chiangmai
Mid-Budget: We Briza Hotel Chiangmai – Don’t expecting much as the accommodation is very budget and cheap. But still, You get what you paid for! The room is cleas and quite spacious. Simple breakfast, indoor swimming pool, and free parking in hotel area with budget price. Staff is accommodating and helpful. In short, a great place to stay in Chiang Mai that good value for money.
Overview: Best Place To Stay in Chiang Mai
All in all, we hope that by now you already found the best place to stay in Chiang Mai. From luxury to budget, many great accommodation options are perfectly fit for all preferences and budgets. I am sure that every type of traveler will find your dream accommodation in one of my lists above.
But if you’re still undecided between the countless options we went through, we highly recommended Chada Mantra Hotel. It is a great mid-range hotel in the main Old Town area and has easy access to attractions and food. Great-sized room and is incredibly clean. A perfect stay in Chiang Mai at a reasonable price tag!
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