Holiday in Chiang Mai

What makes Chiang Mai special as a destination?

Chiang Mai, the Rose of the North, is Thailand's cultural heart and a fascinating counterpoint to bustling Bangkok. Within the old city walls and beyond, over 300 Buddhist temples are spread out — from the golden Wat Phra Singh with its venerable murals to the shiny Wat Chedi Luang, whose partially collapsed pagoda once housed the Emerald Buddha. Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai's mountain, hosts the sacred temple Wat Phra That Doi Suthep at its summit, accessible via 306 steps of a Naga staircase. From the top, one overlooks the entire city and the surrounding mountains. The Sunday Walking Street transforms Ratchadamnoen Road every Sunday evening into a kilometer-long night market featuring handicrafts, street food, and live music. The Saturday Night Market on Wualai Road and the daily Night Bazaar complement the offerings. Ethical elephant conservation projects like the Elephant Nature Park allow visitors to observe and feed rescued elephants — without riding or tricks. The Yi Peng Lantern Festival in November, where thousands of illuminated sky lanterns rise simultaneously, is one of the most magical experiences in Southeast Asia. Chiang Mai is also Thailand's center for traditional cooking classes, meditation, and Thai massage training. Northern Thai cuisine offers unique specialties such as Khao Soi (curry noodle soup with coconut milk), Sai Ua (spicy northern sausage), and sticky mango rice.