About Chiang Mai Province
Chiang Mai, the old capital of the Lanna kingdom founded in 1296, is northern Thailand's cultural and economic heart and the country's second city by influence if not population. The square moated Old City still holds dozens of historic Lanna-style temples, and the temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep watches over the city from the forested mountain to the west. South of town, Doi Inthanon National Park preserves Thailand's highest peak at 2,565 metres.
Top Highlights
Lanna-era Old City temples ringed by the original moat and walls
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a hilltop temple overlooking the city
Doi Inthanon National Park and Thailand's highest peak
Ethical elephant sanctuaries, hill-tribe villages, and a major coffee-growing region
Getting There
Chiang Mai International Airport has frequent flights from Bangkok and other regional hubs. Overnight sleeper trains run from Bangkok's Krung Thep Aphiwat station (about 13 hours), and intercity buses leave from Mo Chit throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore more Thai provinces
Browse all 30 province guides
Was this page helpful?
Senior Travel Writer · Bangkok · 12+ years in Thailand
James has lived in Bangkok since 2014 and has visited all 77 Thai provinces. He specialises in destination guides, itinerary planning, and transport logistics. Before moving to Thailand, he worked as a travel journalist in Hong Kong and Singapore. He speaks conversational Thai and is a certified PADI divemaster.
Our editorial standards