Chiang Mai travel guide
Chiang Mai Tourism | Chiang Mai Guide
You're Going to Love Chiang Mai
With a population of 200 952, Chiang Mai is the largest city in Chiang Mai, Thailand by the number of inhabitants. It is one of the most popular cities to visit in the country. We recommend you stay at least 5 days in order to fully appreciate everything Chiang Mai has to offer.
When to visit Chiang Mai
Looking for warm weather? Then head to Chiang Mai in April, when the average temperature is 29 °C, and the highest can go up to 36 °C. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 14 °C, with an average temperature of 21 °C. You’re likely to see more rain in September, when precipitation is around 250 mm. In contrast, January is usually the driest month of the year in Chiang Mai, with an average rainfall of 0 mm.
How to Get to Chiang Mai
Plane
When flying to Chiang Mai, you’ll arrive at Chiang Mai (CNX), which is located 3 km from the city centre. The shortest flight to Chiang Mai from New Zealand departs from Auckland and takes around 22h 25m.
Train
State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is the only carrier operating train routes to Chiang Mai. The train station in Chiang Mai is called Chiang Mai Chiang Mai Railway Station, and is located 3.1 km from the city centre.
Bus
Several bus lines operate bus routes to Chiang Mai, including Bangkok Bus Lines, Sombat Tour and Bus. The most popular bus station is Chiang Mai Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 2, located 4 km from the city centre of Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 is also a commonly used station, and is 4 km from the city centre.
Airlines serving Chiang Mai
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
From 5-star hotels such as the Meliá Chiang Mai to great affordable options like the ibis Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub, Chiang Mai offers a range of accommodations for every taste. Average rates range from around $45 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to $173 and up for a 5-star experience. If you’re on a budget, well-reviewed accommodations include The Common Hostel and OYO 799 Pudsadee Hotel. There are also lots of holiday rental options in Chiang Mai, with prices from $18 to $396 per night. Chang Khlan is the neighbourhood with the highest amount of rentals to choose from. On average, holiday rentals in Chiang Mai are about 2% more expensive than a hotel room in the city.
Where to stay in popular areas of Chiang Mai
Most booked hotels in Chiang Mai
Hiring a car in Chiang Mai
Expect to pay $2.18 per litre in Chiang Mai (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your car hire, filling up the tank will cost between $26.16 and $34.87. The most frequently booked car type in Chiang Mai is Compact (Nissan Almera or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Mini car hire (Class Mini Car or similar) is, on average, 48% cheaper than other car hire types in the city.