Chiang Mai
Tours and Vacation Packages
Explore Chiang Mai with Our Travel Guide and Tour Packages
Known as “The Rose of the North”, Chiang Mai is a beautiful contrast to the buzzing energy of Bangkok. Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, this peaceful city offers a deeper, slower kind of travel-one that blends spiritual heritage, rich history, and vibrant modern creativity. Whether you're a temple lover, a jungle trekker, or simply someone craving calm, Chiang Mai is a perfect escape.
Once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai was founded in 1296 and became a thriving center for trade, Buddhism, and traditional Thai culture. Today, the city continues to embrace its roots with over 300 historic temples, centuries-old moats, and festivals that light up the streets with lanterns, flowers, and joy. Wandering through the Old City, visitors are greeted by saffron-robed monks, the smell of incense, and the soft rhythm of local life. It’s this connection to the past-still alive in everyday rituals-that makes Chiang Mai Thailand tours feel like a journey back in time.
But Chiang Mai isn’t just about quiet temples. The surrounding mountains are a playground for eco-adventurers: zip-lining through jungle canopies, bathing elephants ethically, or hiking through hill tribe villages. For those seeking wellness, the city is full of yoga retreats, herbal spas, and vegetarian cafes that attract creatives and digital nomads from around the world. Whether you're sipping a coconut coffee in Nimmanhaemin or watching the sunset from Doi Suthep, the vibe is always laid-back, soulful, and inspiring.
If you're planning a more personalized adventure, a trusted Vietnam tour company like Threeland Travel can help build a seamless experience-combining Chiang Mai tours with other unforgettable Thailand tours. In Chiang Mai, every path-whether ancient or modern, leads to discovery.
Chiang Mai is a paradise for food lovers, especially those looking to explore authentic Northern Thai flavors that are distinct from Bangkok’s street food. The city’s cuisine is influenced by centuries of Lanna traditions, hill tribe ingredients, and nearby Burmese and Lao cultures. It’s a place where every dish tells a story, whether it’s served in a bustling night market or a cozy backyard restaurant. During your Chiang Mai tours, you’ll discover a cuisine that is fragrant, spicy, and often made with local herbs and roots. From warm bowls of curry noodles to spicy minced meat salads, the food in Chiang Mai is as comforting as it is bold. A good Vietnam tour company like Threeland Travel can help travelers build culinary experiences into their itinerary, combining cultural exploration with mouthwatering tastes. Whether you’re joining a local cooking class or just sampling dishes at a night bazaar, food is always at the heart of Chiang Mai Thailand tours and an essential part of any memorable Thailand tour.
- Khao Soi: No trip to Northern Thailand is complete without a steaming bowl of Khao Soi. This iconic dish features egg noodles swimming in a fragrant coconut curry broth, topped with crispy noodles, pickled mustard greens, shallots, and lime. Usually served with tender chicken or beef, Khao Soi is a highlight of most Chiang Mai tours and a must-try on any Thailand tour.
- Sai Ua (Chiang Mai Sausage): Bursting with lemongrass, kaffir lime, and fiery chili, this Northern Thai sausage is grilled to perfection and often served sliced with sticky rice. Found at street stalls and traditional eateries, Sai Ua is a flavorful introduction to the herbal and spicy profile of Chiang Mai Thailand tours.
- Nam Prik Ong: A comforting Northern-style chili dip made with minced pork, tomatoes, garlic, and mild dried chilies. This savory, slightly tangy dip is often accompanied by fresh vegetables and crispy pork cracklings - a dish that travelers discover on immersive Chiang Mai tours led by trusted companies like Threeland Travel.
- Laab Kua: Different from its Isaan cousin, this Northern-style laab is a rich, earthy pork salad seasoned with dry spices, fresh herbs, and roasted rice powder. Often served warm, it pairs perfectly with sticky rice and is a staple in hill tribe-inspired meals on a culturally focused Thailand tour.
- Khao Niaow Ma Muang (Mango Sticky Rice): A sweet staple of Thai cuisine, this dessert features ripe yellow mango laid over a bed of sticky rice drenched in warm coconut milk. Creamy, fresh, and satisfying, it’s an essential part of food experiences in Chiang Mai Thailand tours or culinary-focused itineraries from Threeland Travel.
- Grilled Meats & Skewers: Whether it’s juicy pork belly, chicken wings, or local mushrooms wrapped in bacon, grilled skewers are everywhere in Chiang Mai’s night markets. These savory bites are perfect for sampling local flavors on-the-go during casual food walks on Thailand tours.
- Thai Milk Tea: This creamy, sweet, and boldly orange drink is a go-to refresher across Thailand. Best enjoyed over ice, it’s a favorite during Chiang Mai tours, perfect for strolling the Old City or relaxing after a temple visit.
- Roselle Juice (Nam Krajiab): Made from hibiscus flowers, this bright red herbal drink is slightly sour, subtly sweet, and wonderfully cooling. A refreshing pick-me-up after exploring Chiang Mai’s markets or gardens on a Thailand tour.
- Butterfly Pea Tea: Delicate and floral, this vivid blue tea turns purple with a splash of lime. Found at wellness cafés, it’s a refreshing addition to Chiang Mai Thailand tours showcasing northern Thai herbs.
- Fresh Fruit Smoothies: Chiang Mai’s fresh fruit smoothies, made from mango, dragon fruit, or tropical blends, are a delicious way to cool down. Available at night markets and street stalls, they’re a hit on Thailand tours.
- Chang or Leo Beer: These local lagers pair perfectly with Chiang Mai’s bold, spicy dishes. A cold Chang or Leo is a relaxing way to toast your journey after exploring temples or trekking on a Thailand tour.
Tucked away in the mountainous north of Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a calm, culturally rich escape from the chaos of city life. Whether you’re wandering through the quiet alleyways of the Old City, trekking lush jungles, or watching lanterns drift into the sky during local festivals, this destination has something for every traveler. For anyone searching for meaningful Chiang Mai Thailand tours, this city provides a blend of ancient charm and modern creativity - perfect for slow travelers, families, and digital nomads alike.
Chiang Mai is often featured in well-designed Thailand tours by top Vietnam tour companies like Threeland Travel, who craft immersive journeys into the region’s spiritual and natural beauty. It's a soulful destination where serene temples meet artisanal cafés, and every moment feels like an invitation to slow down. If you're planning a Chiang Mai tour as part of a broader Thailand tour trip, expect peaceful landscapes, warm hospitality, and experiences that stay with you long after you leave.
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Perched atop a mountain with golden spires and sweeping city views, this iconic temple is a must-visit on many Chiang Mai tours. A spiritual and scenic highlight of any Thailand tour trip.
- Old City Temples: Wander through history at Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh—ancient temples filled with calm energy, often featured in Thailand tours. Perfect for cultural exploration on a Chiang Mai Thailand tour.
- Elephant Nature Park: An ethical elephant sanctuary where visitors can feed and observe rescued elephants. A meaningful addition to your Thailand tour trip, showcasing Chiang Mai’s commitment to animal welfare.
- Doi Inthanon National Park: Explore Thailand’s highest peak with waterfalls, forest trails, and royal pagodas—perfect for nature lovers on a Chiang Mai Thailand tour. A breathtaking escape into nature.
- Sunday Night Walking Street: A vibrant night market filled with food, crafts, and performances. No Chiang Mai tour is complete without experiencing this local favorite, bustling with energy and culture.
- Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls: Unique limestone waterfalls you can climb barefoot—fun for all ages and a memorable stop on many Thailand tours. A refreshing adventure near Chiang Mai.
- Bo Sang Handicraft Village: Famous for hand-painted umbrellas and local crafts, this peaceful village is often recommended by top Vietnam tour companies for cultural experiences on a Chiang Mai Thailand tour.
November to February: The cool, dry season offers clear skies and scenic mountain views, making it the most popular time for Chiang Mai tours and Thailand tours.
March to April: Hot and dry, but culturally rewarding thanks to Songkran, Thailand’s New Year festival known for its lively water fights and celebrations, a highlight of many Chiang Mai Thailand tours.
May to October: The rainy season brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, ideal for travelers seeking a quieter Chiang Mai Thailand tour or off-season deals through Vietnam-based travel agencies.
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX): Connects the city with Bangkok and several international destinations, serving as a major arrival point for Chiang Mai Thailand tours.
Overnight Trains and Buses: From Bangkok, these provide a scenic and cost-effective travel option, often included in custom itineraries from a Vietnam tour company or Thailand tour provider.
Scooter Rentals: Affordable and allow travelers to explore freely, especially areas beyond the city center on Chiang Mai tours.
Red Songthaews: Shared pickup trucks are a traditional and budget-friendly way to get around town during your Chiang Mai Thailand tour.
Walking or Bicycling: Within the Old City, these are ideal for discovering temples, street food stalls, and hidden cafés at a relaxed pace on a Thailand tour trip.
Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Essential for hot days on Chiang Mai Thailand tours.
Modest Clothing: Bring a shawl or long pants for temple visits, a staple on most Chiang Mai tours.
Light Jacket: Useful for cooler nights, particularly in the hills or during early morning excursions on a Thailand tour trip.
Essentials: Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a local SIM or eSIM for booking Grab rides and navigating maps during your Thailand tour.
Temple Etiquette: Always remove your shoes when entering temples or homes on Chiang Mai tours.
Respect for Buddha: Never point your feet at Buddha statues or monks, as it is considered disrespectful during your Thailand tour trip.
Traditional Greeting: Use a “wai” (palms pressed together with a slight bow) instead of a handshake for a culturally appropriate greeting on Chiang Mai Thailand tours.
Songkran: If visiting during Songkran in April, be prepared for water fights in public spaces. Dress appropriately and protect electronics on your Thailand tour.
Activities
Chiang Mai can be described as a city that stays in the mind after one has ventured away from the place. From the detailed carvings on its temples, the bustle and bustle of the markets, and the taste of its food, Chiang Mai is a city that can be truly appreciated.
