✓ Updated January 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

When is the Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai, Thailand?

Chiang Mai, Thailand travel destination - scenic view of Sunrise Alms Giving Ceremony during ideal visiting season — Image: 0020-วัดพระสิงห์วรมหาวิหาร.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

For an inspiring journey through Northern Thailand, aim for the cool, dry season from November to February. Imagine waking up to a gentle morning mist blanketing the hills, followed by crisp, clear days perfect for exploring ancient temples and vibrant, bustling markets. The air is comfortably cool, making it a joy to wander through the city and witness the inspiring golden sunsets paint the sky. Following this, March to May brings warmer temperatures, ideal for experiencing local festivals like Songkran, though the air can feel quite warm. The rainy season, from June to October, offers lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, with rain often falling in refreshing afternoon showers.

Airport Code

CNX

Coordinates

18.79°, 98.99°

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Top Things to Do

Sunrise Alms Giving Ceremony

Wake before dawn to witness the silent, deeply spiritual procession of saffron-robed monks collecting alms from devout locals. This is a profound cultural immersion, offering a glimpse into the heart of Lanna Buddhism. Remember to dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) and observe from a distance unless you are participating with a local guide.

Doi Suthep Temple's Golden Spire

Ascend the Naga-lined staircase to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a sacred temple perched high in the mountains. The intricate golden chedi glitters in the sunlight, and the panoramic views of Chiang Mai below are simply spectacular. Visit in the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and catch the changing light on the temple.

Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Tong Waterfalls)

Escape the city heat at these unique limestone waterfalls where you can actually climb up the cascades! The mineral deposits create a grippy surface, making it a fun and exhilarating natural playground. Go on a weekday to have more of the falls to yourself and pack a waterproof bag for your belongings.

Wander Through Warorot Market (Kad Luang)

Dive into the vibrant chaos of Chiang Mai's oldest market, a sensory overload of local life. Sample exotic fruits, pungent spices, and delicious street food, or browse for traditional textiles and handicrafts. Arrive in the morning to see the market at its busiest and most authentic.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

transport

Embrace the songthaew! These red trucks are Chiang Mai's iconic shared taxis. For short trips within the Old City, agree on a price (usually 20-30 THB) before you hop in. For longer distances or if you have a group, you can even hire a songthaew privately for a negotiated rate.

food

Don't be afraid of the street food stalls, especially at night markets like the Saturday Walking Street or Sunday Walking Street. Look for stalls with long queues of locals – that's your golden ticket to delicious and authentic Khao Soi (curry noodle soup) or Sai Oua (Northern Thai sausage). Just ensure the food is cooked fresh in front of you.

culture

Dress respectfully when visiting temples, like Wat Phra Singh or Doi Suthep. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Many temples offer sarongs for rent or sale at the entrance if you forget, but it's always best to come prepared to show respect for these sacred sites.

money

While many places accept credit cards, cash is king for smaller vendors and markets. Withdraw Thai Baht from ATMs at reputable banks (like SCB or KBank) to get the best exchange rates, but be aware of potential withdrawal fees from both your bank and the local ATM. Keep smaller bills handy for songthaews and street food.

packing

Pack light, breathable clothing, but don't forget a light rain jacket or umbrella, especially during the rainy season (roughly May to October). Evenings can sometimes be cooler, so a light sweater or scarf is also a good idea, particularly if you plan on visiting higher elevations like Doi Suthep.

safety

Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded markets and tourist areas. While Chiang Mai is generally safe, petty theft can occur. Keep your valuables secure and consider using a cross-body bag. For scooter rentals, always take photos of the scooter's condition before you rent it and ensure you have adequate travel insurance.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan

1 days

Feb

2 days

Mar

4 days

Apr

7 days

May

13 days

Jun

14 days

Jul

16 days

Aug

17 days

Sep

16 days

Oct

11 days

Nov

5 days

Dec

2 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	30°C	13°C	86°F	55°F	5mm	1 days	11.6h
Feb	33°C	15°C	91°F	59°F	10mm	2 days	11.8h
Mar	35°C	18°C	95°F	64°F	30mm	4 days	12.1h
Apr	36°C	21°C	97°F	70°F	55mm	7 days	12.4h
May	34°C	22°C	93°F	72°F	150mm	13 days	12.6h
Jun	32°C	22°C	90°F	72°F	140mm	14 days	12.7h
Jul	31°C	22°C	88°F	72°F	170mm	16 days	12.7h
Aug	31°C	22°C	88°F	72°F	200mm	17 days	12.5h
Sep	31°C	21°C	88°F	70°F	190mm	16 days	12.2h
Oct	31°C	20°C	88°F	68°F	100mm	11 days	11.9h
Nov	30°C	17°C	86°F	63°F	30mm	5 days	11.7h
Dec	29°C	14°C	84°F	57°F	10mm	2 days	11.5h

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

All Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Sunrise Alms Giving Ceremony

cultural

Doi Suthep Temple's Golden Spire

attraction

Best time: Nov-Feb

Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Tong Waterfalls)

nature

Wander Through Warorot Market (Kad Luang)

food

Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Experience

activity

Spend a day interacting responsibly with rescued elephants at a sanctuary that prioritizes their well-being. Learn about their individual stories, help prepare their food, and walk alongside them in their natural habitat. Choose a sanctuary that strictly prohibits riding and focuses on observation and care.

Night Bazaar's Treasure Hunt

shopping

As dusk settles, the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar comes alive with a dazzling array of stalls selling everything from intricate silver jewelry to hand-painted silk. Hone your bargaining skills and discover unique souvenirs. Go later in the evening for a slightly less crowded, more atmospheric experience.

Learn the Art of Thai Cooking

food

Immerse yourself in the flavors of Northern Thailand by taking a hands-on cooking class. Visit a local market to select fresh ingredients before learning to prepare classic dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry. Many classes offer a farm-to-table experience, making it both educational and delicious.

Explore the Old City's Hidden Temples

cultural

Beyond the famous Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai's ancient walled city is dotted with serene, lesser-visited temples like Wat Umong (with its forest tunnel) and Wat Suan Dok. Wander through these tranquil sanctuaries to escape the crowds and appreciate the intricate Lanna architecture in peace.

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Getting Around Chiang Mai, Thailand

Songthaews (Red Trucks)

These iconic red pickup trucks with covered benches are Chiang Mai's most common and affordable form of public transport. They operate on fixed routes within the city, picking up and dropping off passengers anywhere along their path.

Cost:10-30 THB per person, depending on distance.

Tip:To hail one, stick your hand out like you would a taxi. Tell the driver your destination and agree on the price *before* you get in. Don't expect them to deviate from their general route; if you need a specific, out-of-the-way spot, a private taxi or Grab might be better. Be prepared for a bit of a squeeze during peak hours.

Grab (Ride-hailing App)

Grab is the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber and is widely used in Chiang Mai for cars and motorbikes. It's convenient for direct trips, especially when traveling with luggage or to areas not well-served by songthaews.

Cost:Varies by distance and demand, typically starting around 50-70 THB for short trips within the city.

Tip:Download the app and set up your payment method before you arrive. Prices can surge during peak times or bad weather. For motorbike taxis, ensure your driver has a helmet for you and that you're comfortable with the ride; it's fast but can be intense.

Scooter/Motorbike Rental

Renting a scooter offers the ultimate freedom to explore Chiang Mai and its surroundings at your own pace. It's ideal for day trips to Doi Suthep, Mae Rim, or the surrounding countryside.

Cost:150-300 THB per day for a standard scooter.

Tip:Only rent if you are an experienced rider and have an international driving permit or your home country's license with a motorcycle endorsement. Always wear a helmet (it's the law and essential for safety). Take photos of the scooter's condition before you rent it to avoid disputes when returning it. Be aware of traffic laws and drive defensively; Chiang Mai traffic can be chaotic.

Tuk-tuks

While more of a novelty for tourists, tuk-tuks are still available for short trips within the city. They offer an open-air experience but are generally more expensive than songthaews for the same distance.

Cost:Negotiate fiercely! Expect to pay 50-100 THB for short trips, more for longer ones.

Tip:Always agree on the price *before* you get in. Tuk-tuks are best for short, fun rides rather than practical, budget-friendly transport. Be wary of drivers offering 'tours' that seem too good to be true; they often involve stops at gem shops or tailor shops where they get commissions.

Walking (within the Old City)

The Old City, with its moats and ancient walls, is incredibly walkable. Many temples, markets, and cafes are clustered within this compact area, making it easy to explore on foot.

Cost:Free!

Tip:Wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated, especially during the hot season. Walking is the best way to discover hidden alleys, local eateries, and smaller temples that you might miss otherwise. Be mindful of the heat and humidity, and plan your walks for cooler parts of the day.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Absolutely! Don't miss Wat Umong, a forest temple with ancient tunnels that feel like stepping back in time – it's incredibly peaceful. Also, Wat Suan Dok, with its white chedis housing the ashes of Chiang Mai royalty, offers a serene and beautiful experience, especially at sunset.

How do I get around Chiang Mai like a local, and what's the best way to handle short trips?

For getting around the Old City, walking or renting a bicycle is fantastic for soaking in the atmosphere. For longer distances or trips outside the city, the red songthaews (shared taxis) are your best bet – just agree on the price before you hop in! For more flexibility, ride-sharing apps like Grab are also readily available and quite affordable.

I've heard about the 'burning season' – how much does it really affect a visit?

The burning season, typically from late February to April, can significantly impact air quality, especially in the northern regions. While it's a local agricultural practice, the smoke can make the air hazy and unpleasant for outdoor activities. If you're sensitive to smoke or prioritize clear skies, it's best to avoid visiting during these months.

What's a unique cultural experience in Chiang Mai that most tourists miss?

Seek out a traditional Khantoke dinner. It's more than just a meal; it's a cultural performance with traditional Northern Thai food served on low tables while dancers and musicians entertain. It’s a wonderful way to experience Lanna culture firsthand, and many places offer it right in the city.

Is it easy to communicate in Chiang Mai, or should I learn some Thai phrases?

While many people in tourist areas speak some English, learning a few basic Thai phrases will go a long way and is always appreciated. 'Sawasdee ka/krap' (hello), 'Kob kun ka/krap' (thank you), and 'Tao rai?' (how much?) will open doors and smiles. Locals really value the effort, even if your pronunciation isn't perfect!

What is the cheapest month to visit Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The cheapest months to visit Chiang Mai, Thailand are typically Apr and Jul during the off-season. You can save 30-40% on hotels and flights compared to peak summer months. While weather may not be ideal, you'll enjoy fewer crowds and significant savings.

How many days do you need in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Chiang Mai, Thailand to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

What should I avoid in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

Avoid visiting Chiang Mai, Thailand during Apr if possible, when weather conditions are less favorable. Also, be cautious of tourist traps in heavily visited areas - research attractions beforehand and consider booking skip-the-line tickets for popular sites.

Is Chiang Mai, Thailand expensive to visit?

Chiang Mai, Thailand can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during peak season and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Chiang Mai, Thailand famous for?

Chiang Mai, Thailand is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during for the best experience.

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