About

The largest city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is the commercial and cultural center of the region. The former capital of the Lan Na Kingdom, it is surrounded by a lush countryside that is home to several unspoiled national parks. The Rose of the North features a number of ornate temples, shrines and churches. Museums chronicle the history, art and culture of the area. Chiang Mai is famous for its night markets selling a variety of arts and crafts. Other points of interest include the Tha Phae Gate and the Bhubing Palace gardens. The city has warm to hot weather year-round with highs in the 90s and lows near 70 degrees.

Getting to and from Chiang Mas

The major aviation gateway into northern Thailand, Chiang Mai International Airport is located approximately 6 kilometers southwest of the city center. Travelers can reach various areas of the city by public bus, taxi or hotel shuttle. Another option is to charter a motorized rickshaw, called a tuk-tuk, or a red-covered truck known as a songthaew. Locals use songthaews instead of buses to travel around the city.