Chiang Mai

Founded by the ancient Lanna Kingdom in 1296, Chiang Mai was originally a heavily fortified citadel that stood as a bulwark against Burmese kingdoms and the Mongol Yuan Empire, which had conquered much of China and parts of Southeast Asia. While the Lanna kingdom would rule parts of Thailand for 500 years until the late 1700s, Chiang Mai was later abandoned and fell into a slow decline - which was reversed only in the twentieth century. Today, Chiang Mai is the cultural center of northern Thailand, and a thriving city that hosts a number of outstanding temples, which are complemented by some of the best outdoors activities in all of Thailand - due to its proximity to nearby lush rainforests and the mighty Mae Taeng River. Notable attractions include Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, a picturesque, beautiful mountain temple, and the MAIIAM, the city's contemporary art museum.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Khantoke Feast

Participate in a khantoke dinner at a scenic spot, such as Wieng Kum Kam, an ancient city not far from Chiang Mai. Khantoke is an authentic way for honored guests to par­take in traditional music and dance while enjoying classic Issan (northern Thai) dishes.

Lanna Culture

Spend a morning with a scholar of Lanna culture and architecture. Your expert will explain the principles of Lanna design and the adoption of this aesthetic at the Rachamankha, a luxurious boutique hotel whose grounds reflect the architectural history of this diverse region and whose design is based on the viharn (chapel) of one of Thailand’s most beautiful temples, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang in Lampang province.

Night Bazaar

Explore the Night Bazaar, a modern day version of a caravanserai, where you can choose from a vast array of handicrafts and other locally made items – many of which make fine gifts.

Temple of Tunnels

Explore Wat Umong, or the “Temple of Tunnels,” located in a forested, rural area a few miles outside Chiang Mai. Learn about the fascinating and mysterious history of this temple, which is believed to date from the late 14th century and was used by the Japanese as a base during World War II.

Wat Prathat Doi Suthep

Visit Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, a Buddhist temple atop a mountain just nine miles from central Chiang Mai. Meet with the temple’s monks and receive a private blessing. On your descent, your guide will alert you to any beautiful tropical birds that are some­times present at Doi Suthep mountain. At the foot of Doi Suthep is Huay Kaew Waterfall, which cascades over a 165-foot rock slope and is a good place to relax and take in the scenery.

Thailand Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Chiang Mai Itineraries

Classic Thailand

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $16,200
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A Jubilee Wanderlist Across Asia

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $20,900
See Itinerary

Active Chiang Mai

Duration
2 days / 1 night
Price Per Person
Extension: Optional add-on to your itinerary.
See Itinerary

An Exploration of Temples and Ancient Relics in Northern Thailand

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,000
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Classic Southeast Asia

Duration
20 days / 19 nights
Price Per Person
From $19,200
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Delving into Lanna History

Duration
2 days / 1 night
Price Per Person
Extension: Optional add-on to your itinerary.
See Itinerary

Elephants, Fishing and Tropical Thai Islands with the Kids in Tow

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $13,000
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Exploring Thailand's Ancient Capitals

Duration
4 days / 3 nights
Price Per Person
Extension: Optional add-on to your itinerary.
See Itinerary

Phantoms of Phrae to Lanes of Lampang

Duration
3 days / 2 nights
Price Per Person
Extension: Optional add-on to your itinerary.
See Itinerary

Stepping into Southeast Asia’s Spiritual Side

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $22,300
See Itinerary
Preferred Hotel

137 Pillars House

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Located in the heart of Wat Gate, an area in Chiang Mai that was formerly designated to foreigners by the government, 137 Pillars House sits idyllically along the Ping River, adjacent to Wat Gate Khar Rham Temple. Combining the regality of traditional Thai elegance with modern luxury, this boutique hotel offers amenities including high-speed wireless internet access, laundry service, a 24-hour on-call medical professional, babysitting services, a spa, outdoor swimming pool and a fitness facility. The Dining Room offers classic Thai cuisine, one of the many dining options offered at the hotel. 137 Pillars House is approximately 25 minutes by car from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).

Preferred Hotel

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Formerly The Chedi, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is a riverside hotel that offers private courtyards and balconies in each of its 84 rooms and suites. The on-site restaurant includes a selection of Thai, Indian and international cuisines in addition to the two bars on the main and second level. The resort facilities include a large swimming pool, fitness centers, a shopping boutique and a spa. Anantara is approximately 15 minutes from Chiang Mai airport.

Preferred Hotel

Four Seasons Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, Thailand

The Four Seasons Chiang Mai blends with its natural surroundings seamlessly, with trees growing between and around the resort, overlooking terraced rice fields and the mountains of the Mae Rim Valley. The resort has 64 boutique pavilions, each with a private veranda, as well as 16 private luxury residences. The Sala Mae Rim serves Thai cuisine and offers sweeping views of the valley below, and the Terraces have international dishes with a view of the Doi Suthep mountain range. The hotel has a health club with state of the art equipment, including a sauna, herbal steam room, whirlpool, cold plunge pool, 20-meter infinity edge swimming pool, a business center and wi-fi access. There are also mountain bikes available for use, along with maps of trails through the surrounding forest. The Spa at the Four Seasons Chiang Mai has seven treatment suites with rain shower massage tables and private herbal steam rooms. Professional spa therapists can help you choose the best treatment package for your needs. The hotel is 25 minutes from Chiang Mai International Airport.

Preferred Hotel

Howie's Homestay

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Talk about exclusive: this luxury boutique villa is only offered to one group at a time, ensuring complete privacy, comfort, and care. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalaya Mountains, the hotel sprawls over four acres of lush green space, magnificent gardens, and a trickling river. Seven residential pavilions dot the property, designed with custom-crafted bronze details, golden teakwood floors, and handcrafted furniture that complements the soothing landscape of Northern Thailand. Guests can spend their days relaxing by the outdoor pool or take part in a variety of local activities such as a visit to the Doi Suthep National Park, a trek through a local rainforest or even an adventurous afternoon of bamboo rafting. As well, luxury spas and top-rated golf courses are located nearby for those looking to indulge in a Thai massage or a round of 18 holes before returning to the hotel for traditional, authentic meals.

Villa Mahabhirom

Villa Mahabhirom

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai's Villa Mahabhirom is located west of the old city, a short walk from the 700-year-old Wat Umong Buddhist temple and only a 15-minute drive from the international airport. The name translates as "Villa of Great Pleasure," and the property is designed around the concept of groups of friends and families spending time together. The antique Thai villas (ruean thai) date back over a century, featuring traditional elements such as stilts, handmade clay roof tiles and dark teakwood. Reimagined for the modern traveler, the 14 villas range from one- to three-bedroom units, with some offering private saltwater plunge pools. Decor is simple and elegant, with details including vintage furniture and luxurious Italian marble in the bathroom. Custom toiletries are by Pañpuri. Hotel facilities include a large saltwater swimming pool, a spa, as well as yoga and Tai Chi classes (requested in advance). For dining, guests can enjoy home-cooked Thai and international dishes in the property's signature Restaurant or opt for the private Mahabhirom Dining Room. The Noppadol Verandah is perfect for evening sundowners and afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the Mahabhirom Tea Room - the sweet treats follow the recipes of Bangkok's Baan Mo Palace while the aromatic teas are sourced from Thailand's only organic tea plantation.

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