Chiang Mai Featured Hotels

Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of northern Thailand, founded in 1296 as the seat of the Lanna kingdom. The square moated old city contains more than 30 active temples - including Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang - and is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle.

The city has become one of Asia's biggest hubs for long-stay travellers and digital nomads, thanks to cheap living, a strong cafe scene, and easy access to the mountains. Trips out of town include Doi Suthep temple, the ethical elephant sanctuaries around Mae Taeng, the Sticky Waterfalls, and the karst landscapes of Pai and Doi Inthanon National Park.