Chiang Mai walking tour & city guide
A moated old city of temples in the northern mountains.
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Surrounded by mountains in the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai is relaxed, cultural and green. Its square old city, ringed by a moat and the remains of ancient walls, contains more than 30 temples, and the pace of life is gentler than in Bangkok.
Inside the Old City
Chiang Mai was founded in 1296 as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Walking the Old City, you will pass temple after temple. Wat Chedi Luang, with its massive partly ruined brick chedi, is the most impressive, while Wat Phra Singh is home to an important Buddha image and beautiful Lanna-style architecture.
Tha Phae Gate, on the eastern side of the moat, is the city's main meeting point. Many temples welcome visitors to 'monk chats', where you can talk with young monks about Buddhism and daily life.
Markets and mountains
The Sunday Walking Street turns Ratchadamnoen Road into a huge market of crafts and food, and the Saturday Walking Street on Wua Lai Road is famous for its silverware. The Night Bazaar operates every evening east of the old city.
On the mountain above the city, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is reached by a staircase of more than 300 steps flanked by serpent sculptures, rewarding visitors with a golden chedi and views over the valley. The trendy Nimman area is known for cafés and boutiques.
When to go
The cool season from November to February is ideal, and November brings the magical Yi Peng lantern festival. From around February to April, agricultural burning can cause poor air quality, so check conditions before you travel.
Top sights in Chiang Mai
- 1
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
A mountaintop temple with views over the city.
- 2
Wat Chedi Luang
A temple with a massive ancient brick chedi.
- 3
Wat Phra Singh
A revered temple with classic Lanna architecture.
- 4
Tha Phae Gate
The best-known gate of the old city walls.
- 5
Sunday Walking Street
A huge weekly market through the old city.
- 6
Nimmanhaemin Road
A modern area of cafés, galleries and shops.
Food markets & where to eat in Chiang Mai
Warorot Market
A busy local market selling northern Thai snacks and produce.
Chang Phueak Gate night market
Evening street food at the north gate, famous for its stewed pork leg rice.
Khao soi restaurants
Many local shops specialize in this northern curry noodle soup.
Sunday Walking Street food stalls
Temple courtyards along the market fill with food vendors.
Food to try in Chiang Mai
Khao soi
Egg noodles in coconut curry, topped with crispy noodles.
Sai ua
A spicy northern Thai herb sausage.
Nam prik ong
A tomato and pork chili dip with vegetables.
Khao kha mu
Slow-stewed pork leg over rice.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Chiang Mai
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in Chiang MaiCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Chiang Mai.
- eSIM for ThailandStay online from the moment you land.
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