Chiang Mai, Thailand
Travel Guide 2026
AI-powered trip planner — custom itinerary, visa info, hotels, and maps for Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of northern Thailand — a walled city of 300 temples surrounded by jungle mountains, with a food scene that tops best-in-Thailand lists and an elephant sanctuary culture that has shifted toward ethical practices. It's calmer than Bangkok and, many would argue, more interesting.
Get a personalised Chiang Mai itinerary in seconds — day-by-day plan, visa requirements for your passport, hotel picks, and an interactive map.
✈️ Plan My Chiang Mai TripTop Things to Do in Chiang Mai
- Doi Inthanon National Park — Thailand's highest peak
- Elephant Nature Park — ethical elephant sanctuary
- Sunday Walking Street night market
- Doi Suthep temple panoramic views over the city
- Thai cooking class with morning market visit
- Old City moat — temple hop all day
November–February (cool season, 15–25°C at night). March–April is smoke season — avoid. May–October is rainy but green.
30-day visa exemption for most passports. Bangladeshi passport: visa-on-arrival at Chiang Mai airport.
Budget: $30–50/day. Mid-range: $70–130/day. Luxury boutique hotel: $200+/day.
Tell Atlas your passport, budget, and travel dates — get a complete personalised itinerary in seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
Fly (1 hour, $20–60 USD), overnight train (12 hours, $15–40 USD sleeper — one of Asia's great train journeys), or overnight bus (10 hours, $10–20 USD).
Which elephant sanctuary is ethical in Chiang Mai?
Elephant Nature Park (elephantnaturepark.org) is most reputable — no riding, natural behaviour, rescue focus. Book weeks ahead as it's very popular.
How many days should I spend in Chiang Mai?
4–5 days covers city temples, a cooking class, and Doi Suthep. Add 2–3 days for Doi Inthanon and the elephant sanctuary.
Ready to plan your Chiang Mai trip? Atlas AI creates a complete day-by-day itinerary personalised to your passport, budget, and travel style.
✈️ Start Planning — It's Free