Joanna James
Occupying the cool, misty hills of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is an enchanting travel hotspot that’s tailor-made for those looking to get away from it all. Here are 7 compelling reasons why the city is the perfect pitstop for rest and rejuvenation.
One of the main reasons why Chiang Mai has been a favourite holiday destination for locals and travellers is undoubtedly steeped in its pleasant climate. Unlike Thailand’s pristine islands and dynamic capital, which can be hot and humid during most months of the year, the temperatures in this mountain stronghold remain cool and delightful all year round. Although the peak travel season falls between November and January, Chiang Mai’s natural splendour and elevation means it is will always provide a welcome respite from Thailand’s tropical hotspots.
Whether you’re staying at the Anantara Chiang Mai Resort or any other base hotel in the region, indulging in a spa day is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai due to the large number of wellness centres occupying the mountain town. Seamlessly blending old and new healing modalities and massage techniques, the spas in Chiang Mai are more than capable of keeping daily aches and pains and everyday stressors at bay.
Foodies, on the other hand, will find that Chiang Mai is among the heartlands of the Lanna culinary tradition with many unique Thai dishes to its name. Fans of Nam Prik Noom, Nam Ngiao, and Khai Soi can not only savour the authentic taste of these northern-style dishes but also learn the basics of recreating them on their own by signing up for a relaxing cooking class in Chiang Mai.
Animal lovers and elephant enthusiasts will also find that Chiang Mai’s elephant camps offer some of the most immersive wildlife encounters in Thailand. Whether you spend a day at the Elephant Nature Park or choose to interact with the rescued gentle giants at the Elephant Retirement Park, there’s no better location in the country to reconnect with these majestic beasts in a safe and non-exploitative atmosphere.
Caffeine addicts will also find that cosy cafes are a big part of the city’s food and beverage industry, meaning that there are plenty of enchanting coffee houses where one can grab a cup of liquid happiness and enjoy a good book. Akha Ama, Toffee Roasters, and Caramellow Café are some of the most popular haunts for coffee lovers visiting Chiang Mai, although new coffee houses are mushrooming all across the city at a rapid rate.
Culture buffs will also find plenty of heritage hubs to write home about during a stay in Chiang Mai, as exquisite temples and remnants of the Lanna Kingdom are all part of the mountain town’s illustrious legacy. With 4 iconic temples located in Chiang Mai Old Town alone, there’s much to see and experience in Chiang Mai beyond Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phan Tao.
Holidaymakers in search of breathtaking natural wonders will also be wowed by the large number of waterfalls occupying Chiang Mai’s national parks and wildernesses. From Wachirathan Waterfall and Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall to Mae Kampong, the area’s frothy cascades are another reason why it is a coveted rest stop for weary souls.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
