Chiang Mai

City in Thailand

Chiang Mai
Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Located 584 km from Bangkok, Chiang Mai is a city in Thailand with a population of approximately 1.2 million. The city attracts visitors with its collection of historic temples, including Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phra Singh.

What to see

The city features several religious sites. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a notable temple, while Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh are situated within the city. These locations serve as primary points of interest for visitors exploring the architectural history of the region.

When to go

The climate in Chiang Mai features distinct seasonal changes. The months from November through February are the coolest, with daily highs ranging from 27 °C to 31 °C and very little rain. March and April are the hottest months, with daily highs reaching 35 °C to 37 °C. Starting in May, the rainy season brings significant precipitation. From July through September, the city experiences the heaviest rainfall, with rainy days occurring on more than 20 days each month. Travelers preferring drier conditions typically plan visits during the cooler months.

Getting there

Chiang Mai is served by Chiang Mai International Airport, located 3 km from the city.

Top sights in Chiang Mai

  1. Wat Phra That Doi SuthepWat Phra That Doi Suthep
  2. Wat Chedi LuangWat Chedi Luang
  3. Wat Phra SinghWat Phra Singh

Weather by month

The warmest month is April, with an average high of 37 °C. The wettest is September, with about 206 mm of rain.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Average high, °C283135373432313030292827
Average low, °C151821242424242423211815
Rainfall, mm3613401361091261882061114912
Rainy days3231120212427231963

Temperatures and rainfall: 1981–2010 averages for Chiang Mai (4 km grid), from CHELSA. Rainy days: 2015–2024, NASA POWER.

Also worth a look

  • Bhubing Palace
  • Chiang Mai Zoo
  • Doi Suthep
  • Wat Chet Yot
  • Wat Chiang Man
  • Wat Lok Moli
  • Wat Pha Lat
  • Wat Sri Suphan
  • Wat Suan Dok
  • Wat Umong
  • Wiang Kum Kam

Other cities in Thailand