A Backpacker’s Guide to Chiang Mai
- Martha Pillin
- Dec 1, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: Dec 27, 2024
Chiang Mai is one of those places that seems to have it all for backpackers. Tucked away in northern Thailand, it’s got this amazing mix of history, adventure, and chill vibes. You can spend your days exploring ancient temples, grabbing cheap and delicious street food, or heading out for some jungle adventures. Whether you’re here to soak in the culture or just take it easy, Chiang Mai is the kind of place that feels welcoming no matter your travel style.
When To Visit Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, Thailand’s cultural capital, is a year-round destination with something to offer in every season. Here’s what to expect:
Cool Season (November–February)
The best time to visit, with pleasant weather (15–28°C) and clear skies. Perfect for exploring temples, trekking in the mountains, and attending the Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November). Nights can be chilly, so bring a jacket. This is the peak tourist season, so expect crowds.
Hot Season (March–May)
Temperatures soar to 30–40°C, with hazy skies caused by agricultural burning (known as the “burning season”). Despite the heat, it’s a quieter time to visit, and the Songkran festival (Thai New Year) in April offers vibrant water celebrations.
Rainy Season (June–October)
Chiang Mai’s landscapes come alive with lush greenery and cooler temperatures (24–30°C). Afternoon rain showers are frequent but short, making it a peaceful time for nature lovers. Waterfalls are at their most impressive, and prices are lower.
Best Time
November to February for cool, clear weather and festive activities. Visit during the rainy season for fewer tourists and verdant scenery.
How To Get There
Getting to Chiang Mai is pretty straightforward, with options to suit different budgets and travel styles:
1. By Plane
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Chiang Mai. The city has an international airport (Chiang Mai International Airport, CNX) with flights from major cities in Thailand like Bangkok, Phuket, and Krabi, as well as direct routes from international destinations like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Hong Kong.
Low-cost carriers like AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Smile offer frequent and affordable flights. From the airport, it’s just a 15-20 minute ride to the city center by taxi or Grab.
2. By Train
For a more scenic and laid-back journey, the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a great option. The overnight sleeper trains are especially popular among backpackers, offering comfortable berths and a chance to wake up to views of lush countryside. The journey takes about 12-15 hours and can be booked at Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station or online in advance.
Trains to Chiang Mai depart from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station, and the journey takes around 12-15 hours, depending on the type of train. There are several options:
Daytime Trains: Perfect if you want to enjoy the countryside views, though they can feel long and tiring.
Overnight Trains: The most popular choice for travelers, offering sleeper berths so you can rest while covering the distance.
Trains leave multiple times a day, but overnight trains departing in the late afternoon or evening are highly recommended.
3. By Bus
Buses are another affordable option, with several operators running services from Bangkok and other cities like Pai and Chiang Rai. VIP buses provide reclining seats, air conditioning, and snacks, making the 10-12 hour journey from Bangkok more comfortable. Buses depart from Bangkok’s Mo Chit station, and tickets can be booked online or at the station.
4. By Car or Motorbike
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore at your own pace, renting a car or motorbike is an option. From Bangkok, it’s about a 10-hour drive, and the roads are well-maintained. However, be prepared for a long journey and ensure you’re comfortable navigating Thai traffic and rules.
5. From Nearby Destinations
If you’re already in northern Thailand, getting to Chiang Mai is even easier. There are short bus rides from places like Pai (about 3-4 hours) or Chiang Rai (about 5-6 hours). Songthaews (shared taxis) and minivans are also available for shorter distances.
Getting Around
Getting around Chiang Mai is easy and affordable, with several convenient transportation options:
1. Songthaews (Red Trucks)
Songthaews are shared taxis that follow flexible routes. Flag one down, tell the driver your destination, and hop in if they agree. These are a popular and budget-friendly choice.
Cost: 30–50 THB for short distances; higher for private hire.
2. Tuk-Tuks
These three-wheeled motorised vehicles are ideal for short trips or quick rides. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Cost: 60–150 THB depending on distance.
3. Motorbike Rentals
Renting a motorbike gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s ideal for trips to nearby attractions like Doi Suthep or the countryside.
Cost: 150–300 THB/day, plus fuel.
Note: A valid international driver’s license is required here even if the rental company does not mention it. Police are known to stop tourists to check they have a valid licence.
DO NOT RENT HERE : Near The Park Hostel - They lost the passport I gave as a deposit for the bike I rented!!!
4. Bicycle Rentals
Renting a bike is a great eco-friendly way to explore the Old City and nearby areas. Many hostels and rental shops offer bicycles.
Cost: 50–100 THB/day.
5. Grab (Ride-Hailing App)
Grab is very convenient for air-conditioned car rides or motorbike taxis. Simply book through the app and pay via cash or card.
Cost: Varies by distance but is affordable for city trips.
6. Walking
The Old City is compact and easy to explore on foot. Many temples, markets, and cafes are within walking distance.
Cost: Free and great for soaking in the atmosphere!
7. Private Drivers
For day trips or excursions, hiring a private driver is a comfortable option. Many tour agencies offer this service.
Cost: Around 1,500 – 3,000 THB/day.
Accommodation
Hostel Lullaby
Dorms: Air-conditioned, mixed & female-only, privacy curtains.
Facilities: Free breakfast, lockers, Wi-Fi, yoga classes, self-laundry.
Common Areas: Garden, lounge, hammocks, social activities.
Location: Central Old City, near Wat Chedi Luang & markets.
Cost: £7–£10/night.
To view this hostel click here
Family Home
Dorms & Rooms: Mixed dorms, private rooms available, comfortable beds.
Facilities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, lockers, hot showers, self-laundry.
Common Areas: Rooftop terrace, lounge for socializing.
Location: Heart of Old City, near Tha Pae Gate & Sunday Walking Street.
Cost: £5–£10/night.
To view this hostel click here
Revolution Hostel
Dorms & Rooms: Modern mixed dorms with privacy curtains, private rooms available.
Facilities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, lockers, hot showers, and laundry service.
Common Areas: Rooftop bar, lounge, and pool for socializing.
Location: Near Old City, close to Nimmanhaemin cafes and night markets.
Cost: £8–£12/night.
To view this hostel click here
The Yard Hostel
Rooms: Private rooms and dorms with comfortable beds and privacy curtains.
Facilities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, lockers, bike rentals, and laundry service.
Common Areas: Large garden, outdoor seating, communal kitchen.
Eco-Friendly: Sustainable practices like recycling and upcycled furniture.
Location: Ari neighbourhood, close to trendy cafes and BTS Skytrain.
Cost: £10–£15/night
To view this hostel click here
The Entaneer Poshtel
Rooms: Stylish private rooms and dorms with privacy curtains and comfy beds.
Facilities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, lockers, and laundry service.
Common Areas: Cozy lounge, communal kitchen, and garden space.
Location: Quiet area near Chiang Mai Old City, walking distance to key attractions.
Cost: £8–£12/night.
To view this hostel click here
Give Me 5 Hostel
Rooms: Mixed and female-only dorms with privacy curtains, plus private rooms.
Facilities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, lockers, and hot showers.
Common Areas: Cozy lounge and outdoor seating area.
Location: Prime spot near Tha Pae Gate and Sunday Walking Street.
Cost: £6–£10/night.
To view the hostel click here
The Green Sleep Hostel
Rooms: Mixed and female-only dorms with privacy curtains and comfortable beds.
Facilities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, lockers, bike rentals, and laundry service.
Common Areas: Relaxing lounge and communal kitchen.
Eco-Friendly: Focus on sustainability with recycling and eco-conscious design.
Location: Central Old City, close to temples and Sunday Walking Street.
Cost: £7–£11/night.
To view this hostel click here
About A Bed Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms with spacious beds and privacy curtains.
Facilities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, lockers, and laundry service.
Common Areas: Cozy lounge and shared kitchen.
Location: Conveniently in the Nimmanhaemin area, near cafes and nightlife.
Cost: £5–£9/night.
To view the hostel click here
Things To Do In Chiang Mai
1. Explore the Temples
Chiang Mai is home to over 300 temples (wats), each with its unique architecture and history:
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Located on a hilltop, this iconic temple offers panoramic views of the city. Climb 306 steps or take a tram to the top.
Wat Chedi Luang: Known for its massive ancient stupa, it was once home to the Emerald Buddha (now in Bangkok).
Wat Phra Singh: Famous for its stunning Lanna architecture and murals.
2. Take a Thai Cooking Class
Learn how to make classic Thai dishes with hands-on instruction. Many classes include a market tour to source fresh ingredients.
Popular Schools:
Thai Farm Cooking School: Held on a farm for a peaceful, rural experience.
Asia Scenic: Offers city-based and farm-based options.
Dishes to Expect: Pad Thai, green curry, tom yum soup, and mango sticky rice.
3. Explore the Old City
The Old City is the heart of Chiang Mai, surrounded by ancient walls and a moat. Walk its streets to discover boutique cafes, shops, and galleries. Enjoying the Sunday Walking Street Market for street food, crafts, and souvenirs.
4. Visit an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary
Spend a day interacting with elephants ethically by feeding, bathing, and observing them in a natural environment.
Ethical Options:
Elephant Nature Park: A well-known sanctuary rescuing abused elephants.
Baan Chang Elephant Park: Focuses on education and elephant care.
Note: Avoid sanctuaries that offer rides or circus-like activities.
5. Go Trekking in the Mountains
Explore Chiang Mai’s lush landscapes with guided trekking tours. Options include single-day or multi-day treks:
Doi Inthanon National Park: Hike through the highest peak in Thailand.
Mae Taeng Area: Trek through jungles, rice terraces, and hill tribe villages.
6. Shop at Local Markets
Chiang Mai’s markets are lively and full of local flavour:
Night Bazaar: Perfect for souvenirs, handicrafts, and street food.
Warorot Market (Kad Luang): A local market for spices, fresh produce, and textiles.
Sunday Walking Street: Runs along Ratchadamnoen Road with artisanal products and snacks.
7. Experience Adventure Activities
For thrill-seekers, Chiang Mai offers plenty of options:
Zip-lining: Try Flight of the Gibbon for zip-lining through the jungle canopy.
Whitewater Rafting: The Mae Taeng River offers exciting rapids for beginners and pros alike.
Mountain Biking: Explore trails around Doi Suthep or Chiang Dao.
8. Relax with a Thai Massage
Chiang Mai is famous for its affordable massages:
Budget Options: Local massage shops across the city.
Splurge: Luxury spas like Oasis Spa or Fah Lanna.
Unique Experience: Massage by ex-inmates at the Women’s Correctional Institution.
9. Visit Local Villages
Learn about traditional Thai lifestyles by visiting villages:
Bo Sang Handicraft Village: Known for its handmade umbrellas and fans.
Doi Pui Hmong Village: Experience hill tribe culture and stunning views.
10. Attend a Festival
If you’re visiting during key festivals, don’t miss them:
Yi Peng and Loy Krathong (November): Release lanterns into the sky and floating baskets into the river.
Songkran (April): Celebrate the Thai New Year with a city-wide water fight.
11. Take a Day Trip
Explore beyond Chiang Mai with these day trips:
Doi Inthanon National Park: Visit waterfalls, the twin royal pagodas, and enjoy cool
mountain air.
Chiang Rai: See the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten).
Pai: A charming mountain town with hot springs and a relaxed vibe.
Food and Drink
Coffee Shops and Cafés
1. Ristr8to
One of Chiang Mai’s most iconic coffee shops, Ristr8to is famous for its award-winning latte art and expertly brewed coffee. The menu is inspired by world coffee championships, offering a range of blends from around the globe. The baristas are passionate and skilled, making it a must-visit spot for coffee aficionados.
Location: Nimmanhaemin Road.
Budget: 80–150 THB.
2. Graph Cafe
A cozy, Instagram-worthy cafe known for its unique coffee creations. Graph takes coffee to the next level by blending flavors inspired by cocktails and experimental techniques. The minimalist decor and intimate setting make it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts and photographers.
Location: Old City.
Budget: 80–120 THB.
3. The Baristro
A sleek, modern cafe with a focus on clean aesthetics and quality coffee. The Baristro offers a relaxing space to enjoy handcrafted espresso drinks and specialty cold brews. Its white interiors and attention to detail create a serene atmosphere perfect for chilling or working.
Location: Ping Riverside and Nimman branches.
Budget: 90–150 THB.
4. Akha Ama Coffee
A socially responsible cafe supporting the Akha hill tribe by sourcing coffee beans directly from their farms. Known for its high-quality brews and commitment to sustainability, this cafe combines great coffee with a meaningful cause.
Location: Santitham and Old City.
Budget: 70–120 THB.
5. Fern Forest Cafe
A lush garden cafe offering a peaceful retreat in the city. With its wide selection of coffee, tea, and desserts, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. The outdoor seating under the shade of ferns creates a tranquil ambiance.
Location: Old City.
Budget: 100–200 THB.
Restaurants
1. Khao Soi Khun Yai
A small, no-frills spot specialising in the iconic Northern Thai dish, Khao Soi (coconut curry noodles). Loved by locals and travellers alike.
Location: Near the north gate of the Old City.
Budget: 50–70 THB.
2. Huen Phen
A charming restaurant serving traditional Northern Thai dishes like gaeng hang lay (pork curry) in a cozy, rustic setting.
Location: Old City, near Wat Chedi Luang.
Budget: 80–150 THB.
3. The Riverside Bar & Restaurant
A scenic riverside eatery offering a mix of Thai and Western dishes. Live music and a laid-back vibe make it great for dinner.
Location: Along the Ping River.
Budget: 150–300 THB.
4. SP Chicken
A local favourite for roasted chicken (gai yang) served with spicy dipping sauces. Don’t miss the som tam (papaya salad) here!
Location: Near Wat Phra Singh.
Budget: 80–150 THB.
5. Dash! Restaurant & Bar
A family-run restaurant serving both traditional Thai dishes and fusion cuisine in a beautiful wooden house. Great ambiance and friendly service.
Location: South of Tha Phae Gate, Old City.
Budget: 150–300 THB.
6. Night Bazaar Food Court
A lively food court offering a variety of local dishes, seafood, and international options at budget-friendly prices.
Location: Chang Klan Road, near the Night Bazaar.
Budget: 50–200 THB.
7. Aum Vegetarian
A vegetarian-friendly spot offering wholesome Thai dishes like vegetarian Khao Soi and spring rolls in a relaxed setting.
Location: Near Tha Phae Gate.
Budget: 70–150 THB.
8. Ginger & Kafe
A stylish cafe-restaurant offering creative Thai dishes and international options. Known for its beautiful decor and cozy vibe.
Location: Inside The House by Ginger, Old City.
Budget: 200–400 THB.
Bars
1. The North Gate Jazz Co-Op
A legendary live music bar featuring nightly jazz performances in a cozy, energetic setting.
Location: North Gate, Old City.
Budget: 100–200 THB for drinks.
Vibe: Casual and artsy, perfect for music lovers.
2. THC Rooftop Bar
A rooftop bar with chilled reggae vibes, overlooking the Old City. A great spot for sunset drinks.
Location: Near Tha Phae Gate.
Budget: 80–150 THB for cocktails and beers.
Vibe: Relaxed and backpacker-friendly.
3. Zoe in Yellow
A bustling bar and nightclub area popular with backpackers, offering cheap drinks and lively DJ sets.
Location: Old City, Ratvithi Road.
Budget: 100–200 THB for drinks.
Vibe: Party central, ideal for dancing.
4. Namton’s House Bar
A unique bar focusing on craft beer, cocktails, and a relaxed, vintage atmosphere. Great for beer enthusiasts.
Location: Near the Old City, Bumrung Buri Road.
Budget: 150–300 THB for craft beers.
Vibe: Chill and intimate.
5. Caravan Bar
A quirky open-air bar featuring live acoustic music, craft cocktails, and eclectic decor.
Location: Nimmanhaemin Road, Soi 7.
Budget: 120–250 THB for drinks.
Vibe: Bohemian and cozy.
6. Rise Rooftop Bar
A luxurious rooftop bar offering panoramic views of Chiang Mai, signature cocktails, and a refined atmosphere.
Location: Inside Akyra Manor Hotel, Nimmanhaemin Road.
Budget: 300–600 THB for cocktails.
Vibe: Upscale and romantic.
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