Chiang Mai: where Thailand slows down
After the busy streets, traffic jams and endless energy of Bangkok, arriving in Chiang Mai feels like stepping into a different Thailand.
Located in the north of the country, Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second-largest city, but it has a completely different atmosphere. The pace is slower, the streets are greener and there is a wonderful mix of ancient temples, delicious food, local markets and beautiful nature.
For us, Chiang Mai was the perfect next stop during our two-week Thailand adventure. We wanted to experience more than just beaches and cities — we wanted to discover the culture, meet local people and experience the magic of northern Thailand.
Getting to Chiang Mai is easy. You can travel by bus, train or plane from Bangkok. Because we were travelling with limited time, we chose comfort and booked a short flight with Thai Airways. Within just over an hour, we went from the busy capital to the peaceful north.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai has accommodations for every type of traveller, from luxury resorts to cosy boutique hotels.
If you are looking for a little extra luxury, Shangri-La Chiang Mai is a fantastic choice. The hotel is within walking distance of the famous Night Bazaar and offers the comfort you expect after a day of exploring.
Travelling on a smaller budget? We stayed at My Chiang Mai Boutique Lodge. It has a lovely swimming pool, comfortable rooms and is a great base for discovering the city. Book here
Things to do in Chiang Mai with kids
There is so much to see and do in Chiang Mai. Whether you love culture, food, nature or adventure, this city has something for everyone.
Explore the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
One of our favourite evenings in Chiang Mai was spent wandering through the famous Night Bazaar.
Every night, Chang Klan Road transforms into a colourful market filled with lights, music, food stalls and local crafts. It is the perfect place to slowly walk around, taste new flavours and search for unique souvenirs.
You can find almost anything here: handmade jewellery, artwork, clothing, decorations and, of course, plenty of delicious Thai street food.
Chiang Mai is famous for its food scene, and this is the perfect place to try local specialities. Don’t leave without tasting sticky rice — one of the region’s favourite treats.
And be sure to get a foot massage!
Travel tip: If you are in Chiang Mai on a Sunday, don’t miss the huge Sunday Walking Street Market in the old city. From around 5 pm, the streets fill with food, music and local sellers. It is touristy, but also incredibly fun.
A magical elephant experience at Baan Chang Elephant Park
One of the highlights of our time in Chiang Mai was visiting an elephant sanctuary.
We chose Baan Chang Elephant Park, a small family-run park where elephant welfare is the priority.
Unlike some tourist attractions, the focus here is on understanding and respecting these incredible animals. The family behind the park has cared for elephants for decades and works to create a safe and natural environment.
Spending time with the elephants was a truly unforgettable experience. We learned about their behaviour, their personalities and the challenges facing Asian elephants.
Seeing these beautiful animals up close, while knowing they were being treated with care, made this one of our favourite memories from Thailand. Book via our link and get a 5% discount
Discover Chiang Mai’s beautiful temples
One of the reasons Chiang Mai is so special is the incredible number of temples. With more than 300 temples in and around the city, you could easily spend days exploring them.
Wat Chedi Luang
Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most impressive temples in the city.
The enormous ancient pagoda dominates the skyline and immediately catches your attention. Walking through the temple grounds feels like stepping back in time. Monks walk between the buildings, people come to pray and the atmosphere is peaceful despite being in the middle of the city.
The temple complex is also home to beautiful golden Buddha statues and many small details that make it worth taking your time.
Wat Umong: Chiang Mai’s hidden jungle temple
If you are looking for somewhere a little more magical and away from the crowds, visit Wat Umong.
This forest temple, located near the foot of Doi Suthep mountain, was one of our favourite discoveries.
Wat Umong means “tunnel temple”, and when you arrive you immediately understand why. Hidden among the trees are mysterious tunnels where monks once meditated. The peaceful surroundings, ancient ruins and forest paths make it feel almost like a fairytale.
It is exactly the kind of place that makes travelling so special — finding somewhere unexpected and feeling like you have discovered a little secret.
Simply wander through Chiang Mai
Sometimes the best moments while travelling are the ones you don’t plan.
Chiang Mai is a wonderful city to explore on foot. Walk through the old town, stop at small cafés, discover hidden temples and watch everyday Thai life happening around you.
The city is easy to navigate and much calmer than Bangkok, making it a great destination for families travelling with children.
More Chiang Mai experiences
If you have extra time, there are plenty of other adventures nearby:
🍜 Take a Thai cooking class and learn how to make your favourite dishes
🥊 Watch a Muay Thai boxing match
💃 Enjoy the famous Chiang Mai Ladyboy Cabaret
🚲 Explore the countryside on a bike tour
🌿 Visit waterfalls and mountain villages around Chiang Mai
Our verdict: Is Chiang Mai worth visiting?
Absolutely.
For families, Chiang Mai offers the perfect combination of culture, adventure and relaxation. You can explore ancient temples in the morning, eat amazing food at a market in the evening and spend the day surrounded by nature.
After the busy streets of Bangkok, Chiang Mai gave us exactly what we were looking for: a slower pace, authentic experiences and memories we will never forget.
If you are planning a Thailand family adventure, don’t skip the north. Chiang Mai deserves a place on your itinerary.
For more of our family adventures, be sure to check out
Phuket
Bangkok
Magical Thailand
