Chiang Mai

In a city filled with such rich history, it would be a mistake not to include visiting what is known as the ‘old city’ as a part of your Chiang Mai holiday. While there is a lot of new development in Chiang Mai, it is the ancient structures and the city walls that enclose them that date back over 700 years, that are the real sightseeing splendours of this incredible city. When taking the time out of your Thailand vacation to holiday to Chiang Mai, visiting the traditional Thai temples should be at the top of your list. The city is famous for its historical and architecturally beautiful Buddhist temples, the earliest built dating back to 1383. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, is situated on a hill north of the city and is considered Chiang Mai’s finest and most picturesque temple out of the amazing 300 temples the city has to offer. Chiang Mai holidays are not complete without experiencing this breathtaking gem of the city.

Chiang Mai offers an endless list of activities and sightseeing pleasures. Whether it be the Museums that catch your interest or the amazing shopping and bargains you can find at the Night Bazaar Markets, Chiang Mai really has it all. The city not only offers a unique nightlife experience at its many bars and restaurants inside the city centre, but holidays in Chiang Mai are considered a perfect opportunity for trekking the countryside. Chiang Mai is renowned for its trek experiences, including tribal experiences and overnight stays, as well as elephant riding through the beautiful Thai forests

Accommodation in Chiang Mai is well balanced to meet every traveller’s needs with many luxury resorts spanning across the city, as well as guesthouses and smaller hotels for those sticking to a tighter budget. Hostels too, can be found all over the city. With most of the sights and activities close by, Chiang Mai is easily one of the most tourist friendly locations in Thailand when it comes to accessibility. Probably the most talked about accommodation can be found at the Rachamankha Hotel, which is situated next to Wat Phra Singh, one of Chiang Mai’s most famous temples. Built to be made to feel like a temple in itself, the luxurious and beautifully landscaped resort is a popular choice for many travellers looking for an authentic experience.

Deciding when to go for a holiday in Thailand is a tough call to make as all of the seasons have their own delights.

The most popular time to visit is during the winter months from November to January, however being peak time, Chiang Mai is at its busiest. The summertime in Northern Thailand can be a good time visit also, with the temperatures rising to over 40°C, be prepared for some hot days in paradise! The rainy season begins in May and stretches out to September, though the temperatures are more manageable during this time, travellers need to anticipate heavy rainfall from time to time. This season is actually pretty popular as it doesn’t actually rain every day.

Winter in the Mountains

Being the most popular time for Thailand holidays as a whole, the winter season for Chiang Mai is no different. The season starts in November and brings in the most tourism for Chiang Mai right through until about January. While the temperatures generally reach about 25°C, the temperatures in the city can get down to as low as 10°C and in the mountains as low as zero degrees! Trekking and other outdoor activities become increasingly popular during these months, as the weather is perfect for hikes and enjoying many of the physical activities on offer in Chiang Mai. Strolling the city is also favourable at this time of year as the weather is almost considered perfect, and if you’re an early riser, the cool temperatures in the morning allow for some great walks along the city walls.

A Hot Summer

Holidays in Thailand during the hot season sees temperatures soaring above 40°C, so if it’s a hot tropical climate you seek for your holiday, Chiang Mai in the summer season promises you one. The mornings and the late afternoons, are the best times to get out and explore all that the majestical city has to offer. As these are the coolest hours in the day, the many temples can be visited before the heat sets in, and the Night Bazaar Markets are comfortably enjoyed in the evenings. A more relaxing type of Thailand holiday, with days spent laying by the pool, is perfect during the summer season. With less crowds and cheaper accommodation, the hot season allows you to relax, soak up the sun and enjoy a quieter holiday to Thailand.

A Rainy Paradise

The rainy season is also an encouraged time to holiday in Thailand, as the temperatures are much more mild and predictable than the other seasons. While you will experience heavy rainfalls from time to time, the scenery of Chiang Mai is at its best, as the mountains are greener than ever and the flowers are in full bloom. The rainy season allows you to see almost all of the sights the city has to offer. The many museums and shopping hot spots can make for an amazing day out when the rain does come in, and the trekking and temples are easily explored during this climate on the clearer days. May to September is a really popular time to visit Chiang Mai, although it is the rainy season, it definitely doesn’t rain every day, and even when it does, it clears quickly.