1. Welcome to Chiang Mai
First 24 Hours Tips
Airport Transportation
From Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), you have several convenient options:
- Airport Taxis: Fixed rate of 150 Baht to anywhere in the city center. Look for the official taxi stand outside arrivals.
- Grab App: Thailand's equivalent to Uber - typically 150-200 Baht to Old City.
- Airport Shuttle Bus: 50 Baht per person + 30 Baht per large bag.
- Private transfer: Pre-book through your hotel or travel agency (around 300-600 Baht).
Travel time to Old City/Nimman: 15-30 minutes depending on traffic.
SIM Cards & Connectivity
Purchase a local SIM at the airport for hassle-free navigation and communication:
- AIS: Best coverage in northern Thailand. Tourist packages: 449 Baht (8 days, 15GB), 699 Baht (15 days, 30GB).
- TrueMove H: Good coverage, slightly cheaper. Tourist package: 349 Baht (10 days, unlimited data with speed cap after 50GB).
- DTAC: 299 Baht (8 days, 15GB), 599 Baht (15 days, 30GB).
All providers have kiosks at the airport arrival area.
Money Exchange
For the best exchange rates in Chiang Mai:
- Skip the airport exchanges (poorer rates) if possible
- Super Rich Thailand and Mr. Pierre Money Exchange offer competitive rates
- Independent exchanges like JR Money Exchange (131/5 Moon Muang Road) often have better rates than banks
- Evening rates (after 6pm) can be slightly better at some places
Tip: ATM withdrawals incur a 220-250 Baht fee per transaction - withdraw larger amounts less frequently.
Beating Jet Lag & First Activities
Handle the time difference and make the most of day one:
- Morning arrival: Check in, freshen up, then take a gentle walk around the Old City moat
- Afternoon arrival: Have a light meal, visit a nearby temple, then rest early
- Evening arrival: Check in and grab street food at Chiang Mai Gate Night Market
Don't plan too much for your first day - acclimatize to the pace, weather, and time zone.
Local Etiquette Primer
Greetings & Respect
- The Wai: The traditional Thai greeting - hands pressed together at chest or nose height with a slight bow. Return if offered to you.
- Royal Family: Always show utmost respect when discussing the Thai monarchy.
- Head & Feet: The head is sacred - never touch someone's head. Feet are considered dirty - don't point them at people or religious objects.
- Public Behavior: Avoid public displays of affection and anger - Thais value emotional restraint.
Temple & Dress Etiquette
- Temple Dress Code: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples. Long pants/skirts and shirts with sleeves are required.
- Shoes Off: Always remove shoes when entering temples, homes, and many shops (look for shoe racks or other footwear at entrances).
- Buddha Images: Never climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues for photos.
- Monks: Women should never touch or hand something directly to monks.
What to Avoid
- Touching anyone on the head (even children)
- Pointing with your feet or putting feet up on furniture
- Public displays of anger or shouting
- Discussing sensitive political topics
- Walking around shirtless (even in extreme heat)
- Criticizing the monarchy in any way
2. Neighborhood Navigator
What This Area Is Known For
The historic heart of Chiang Mai, surrounded by ancient walls and a moat. This area contains the highest concentration of temples and traditional architecture.
Best Cafés, Bars & Bites
- Ginger & Kafe: Charming spot with Thai fusion food and stylish décor
- Rustic & Blue: Farm-to-table dining with organic focus
- Fern Forest Café: Hidden garden atmosphere with great coffee
- John's Place: Local institution for relaxed dining
- Peppermint Coffee House: Cozy corner for remote work
Hidden Gems & Local Hangouts
- Wat Phan Tao: Wooden temple, less visited but beautiful
- Lila Thai Massage: Rehabilitation program for women prisoners
- Rachamankha: Boutique hotel with museum-quality artifacts in open courtyard
- Suan Buak Haad Park: Peaceful green space in SW corner
- Baan Landaam: Artist's house with workshops
Quick Access
Major Gates: Tha Phae (East), Chang Puak (North), Suan Dok (West)
Transportation: Songthaews (red trucks) circle the moat for 30 Baht per person
What This Area Is Known For
Chiang Mai's trendiest neighborhood, popular with digital nomads and Thai creatives. Modern shopping centers, hip cafés, and stylish restaurants line this fashionable area.
Best Cafés, Bars & Bites
- Ristr8to Coffee: Award-winning latte art and specialty coffee
- One Nimman: Upscale mall with food court and boutiques
- Warm Up Café: Popular nightlife spot with live music
- Beast Burger: Craft burgers and microbrews
- Khagee: Japanese-inspired bakery with excellent bread
Hidden Gems & Local Hangouts
- Think Park: Creative space with small boutiques
- Woo Café: Art gallery with beautiful garden café
- Nimman Soi 9: Full of local food stalls with plastic chairs
- Cherng Doi Roast Chicken: Local favorite, simple roadside spot
- The Baristro: Matcha specialists with Instagram-worthy setups
Quick Access
Landmarks: Maya Shopping Center, Chiang Mai University (nearby)
Transportation: Grab is plentiful, or red songthaews from Old City (30-40 Baht)
What This Area Is Known For
Peaceful area along the Ping River with a mix of old colonial buildings, upscale hotels, and laid-back restaurants. Less touristy and more relaxed atmosphere.
Best Cafés, Bars & Bites
- Riverside Bar & Restaurant: Long-running establishment with river views
- The Good View: Popular spot for sunset drinks
- Gallery Seescape: Art space with creative café
- Café de Thaan Aoan: Quirky colonial-style café
- Baan Suan Restaurant: Garden dining with northern specialties
Hidden Gems & Local Hangouts
- Warorot Market: Local market with food and goods
- Wat Ket Museum: Small cultural museum in local temple
- Anusarn Night Market: Less crowded than Night Bazaar
- Ban Haw Mosque: Cultural landmark in Chinese Muslim area
- Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Institution: Café with quality baked goods
Quick Access
Landmarks: Iron Bridge, Narawat Bridge, Warorot Market
Transportation: Grab or tuk-tuk from Old City (60-100 Baht)
What This Area Is Known For
A mostly residential area that's increasingly popular with expats seeking more affordable accommodation. Authentic local feel with emerging cafés and restaurants.
Best Cafés, Bars & Bites
- Food4Thought: Healthy food options with great atmosphere
- Kinlum Kindee: Hip café with creative Thai fusion
- Tong Tem Toh: Northern Thai cuisine in wooden house
- Khao Soi Lam Duan: Classic northern noodle shop
- Kasemstore: Old-school bakery with local treats
Hidden Gems & Local Hangouts
- Huay Kaew Arboretum: Peaceful garden for morning walks
- Chotana Night Market: Authentic local evening market
- Santitham Yoga: Community yoga studio with English classes
- Wat Mahachaimongkol: Quiet temple complex
- Blue Noodles: Unassuming shop with excellent khao soi
Quick Access
Landmarks: Chang Phuek Bus Terminal, Chiang Mai Ram Hospital
Transportation: 10-15 min walk from North Gate, songthaews available
Getting Around Chiang Mai
Songthaews (Red Trucks)
These shared pickup trucks with bench seating are Chiang Mai's main public transportation.
- Cost: 30 Baht within city, 40-60 Baht to outer areas
- How to use: Flag one down, tell driver destination, pay when exiting
- Tips: Some follow regular routes, others go where passengers need
Grab & Taxis
Convenient point-to-point transportation with air conditioning.
- Grab: Download app, typically 60-150 Baht within city
- Taxis: Limited number, usually found at airport and malls
- Tips: Grab often cheaper and more reliable than hailing taxis
Tuk-tuks & Motorbike Rentals
For short trips or independent exploration.
- Tuk-tuks: 100-200 Baht per trip, always negotiate before boarding
- Motorbike Rental: 200-300 Baht/day, international license required
- Tips: Check motorbikes for damage before renting, wear helmet
3. Beyond the Booking
Free Time Ideas
Slow Morning
- Take a morning walk along the moat, watching locals exercise
- Find a hidden café for specialty coffee and local pastries
- Visit Warorot Morning Market for fresh fruit and local snacks
- Join a drop-in yoga class at Yogadoe or Wild Rose Yoga
- Explore Huay Kaew Arboretum's peaceful gardens
Get Cultural
- Visit Wat Umong's underground tunnels and peaceful grounds
- Participate in a "Monk Chat" at Wat Suan Dok (Mon/Wed/Fri afternoons)
- Explore Lanna Folklife Museum to understand northern Thai culture
- Watch artisans create traditional umbrellas at Bo Sang Village
- Take a short class in northern Thai cooking or fruit carving
With Kids
- Visit Chiang Mai Zoo & Aquarium for a half-day of animal fun
- Explore Suan Buak Haad Park with playgrounds and paddle boats
- Experience Art in Paradise 3D museum for interactive photos
- Visit Baan Kang Wat artisan village for child-friendly workshops
- Take a family-friendly cooking class with simple dishes
Romantic Sunset
- Watch sunset from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep overlooking the city
- Take a sunset dinner cruise on the Ping River
- Enjoy cocktails at a rooftop bar like Rise Rooftop Bar or The Service 1921
- Stroll through the peaceful evening atmosphere at Wat Phra Singh
- Book a couples spa treatment at Oasis Spa or Fah Lanna
24-Hour Local Food Challenge
Breakfast
- Jok (Rice Porridge): Find at morning markets
- Khanom Krok: Coconut pancakes at street stalls
- Patongo: Thai donuts with condensed milk
- Where: Warorot Market or Chang Puak Gate morning stalls
Lunch
- Khao Soi: Curried noodle soup (must try!)
- Sai Ua: Northern Thai herb sausage
- Nam Prik Ong: Chili dip with vegetables
- Where: Khao Soi Lam Duan or Khao Soi Maesai
Dinner
- Gaeng Hung Lay: Northern pork curry
- Larb Kua: Spicy minced pork salad
- Gaeng Hoh: Mixed vegetable curry
- Where: Huen Phen or Tong Tem Toh restaurants
Snacks & Desserts
- Mango Sticky Rice: Classic Thai dessert
- Khanom Bua Loi: Colorful rice balls in coconut milk
- Roti: Thai-style pancakes with toppings
- Where: Night markets or Coconut Shell dessert shop
Local Dining Tips
- Northern Thai food is generally less spicy than central/southern Thai cuisine
- Look for "Ahaan Muang" (Northern food) signs for authentic local dishes
- Most street food is safe, but look for busy stalls with high turnover
- Meals are typically shared family-style - order several dishes for the table
- Tipping is not expected at street food stalls but appreciated at restaurants (10%)
Half-Day Explorer Routes
Old City Temple Walk
Time: 3-4 hours | Best time: Morning (to avoid heat)
- Start: Tha Phae Gate (East entrance to Old City)
- Walk to Wat Chiang Man (oldest temple in Chiang Mai)
- Continue to Wat Phra Singh (important Buddha image)
- Visit Three Kings Monument & Cultural Center
- Stop for refreshments at a café near Wat Chedi Luang
- Explore the partially-ruined Wat Chedi Luang complex
- End at Wat Phan Tao (beautiful wooden temple)
Cost: ~100 Baht for temple entrance fees (free for some)
Tip: Wear slip-on shoes for easy removal at temples, bring water and hat
Riverside Cultural Loop
Time: 3-4 hours | Best time: Late afternoon to evening
- Start: Warorot Market (sample local snacks)
- Visit Wat Ket Karam and its small museum
- Cross Iron Bridge and explore quiet riverside lanes
- Stop at Riva Gallery Café for refreshments
- Walk along river to Nawarat Bridge
- Explore Anusarn Night Market for souvenirs
- End with dinner at Riverside Restaurant
Cost: Transportation 60-100 Baht (to starting point), minimal entrance fees
Tip: Time your walk to finish around sunset for beautiful river views
Nimman Art & Café Crawl
Time: 3-4 hours | Best time: Afternoon
- Start: One Nimman creative complex
- Coffee at Ristr8to Lab (award-winning baristas)
- Browse art galleries at Gallery Seescape
- Shop at boutiques along Nimmanhemin Soi 1
- Snack at Khagee bakery or SS1254372 café
- Visit Woo Café for art and garden atmosphere
- End at MAYA Shopping Center rooftop for views
Cost: 60-100 Baht transport, 300-500 Baht for coffee/snacks
Tip: Great area for digital nomads to work - many cafés have good WiFi
Mountain Temple Tuk-Tuk Tour
Time: 4-5 hours | Best time: Afternoon for sunset
- Arrange: Tuk-tuk for half-day (~600-800 Baht round trip)
- Visit Wat Umong underground tunnel temple
- Stop at Wat Pha Lat hidden jungle temple (short hike)
- Drive up to Doi Suthep with city views
- Explore Wat Phra That Doi Suthep mountain temple
- Stay for sunset over Chiang Mai valley
- Return to city for dinner
Cost: 600-800 Baht for tuk-tuk, 60 Baht entrance to Doi Suthep
Tip: The drive can be windy - consider motion sickness remedies if sensitive
Evening Plans
Night Markets
- Sunday Walking Street: Huge market along Ratchadamnoen Road (4pm-10pm Sundays)
- Saturday Walking Street: Similar but smaller on Wua Lai Road (4pm-10pm Saturdays)
- Night Bazaar: Daily market east of Old City (6pm-11pm)
- Ploen Ruedee Night Market: International food court with live music (closed Mondays)
- Chang Puak Gate Food Stalls: Authentic local food every evening
Live Music & Entertainment
- North Gate Jazz Co-Op: Intimate jazz venue (8:30pm-midnight, closed Mondays)
- Boy Blues Bar: Blues in Night Bazaar (7:30pm-midnight)
- Thapae East: Alternative venue with varied performances
- Warm Up Café: Popular nightclub in Nimman area
- Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center: Traditional Khantoke dinner with dance performances (requires booking)
Rooftops & Evening Drinks
- Rise Rooftop Bar: Akyra Manor Hotel, stylish with mountain views
- The Service 1921: Colonial-themed bar at Anantara hotel
- Myst MAYA: Rooftop bar at MAYA mall in Nimman
- THC Rooftop Bar: Casual, bohemian vibe in Old City
- Good View: Riverside dining with local atmosphere
Spa & Wellness Evenings
- Fah Lanna Spa: Luxury spa in traditional wooden building
- Oasis Spa: Multiple locations, beautiful settings
- Lila Thai Massage: Trains former women prisoners, quality massage at good prices
- Women's Correctional Institution Massage: Rehabilitation program with excellent service
- Zira Spa: Modern spa with hot stone and aromatherapy treatments
Evening Safety Tips
- Chiang Mai is generally safe at night, but stay in well-lit, populated areas
- Use Grab app rather than walking alone late at night
- Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded night markets
- Beware of overly friendly strangers inviting you to bars (potential scams)
- For women: Some reports of drink spiking, keep an eye on your beverages
4. Know the Story Behind the Place
Buddhism 101: Understanding Temple Culture
Core Beliefs & Practices
Thailand practices Theravada Buddhism, considered the oldest and most orthodox form. Over 95% of Thais identify as Buddhist, making it central to Thai culture and daily life.
Key concepts to understand:
- Merit-making (Tham Bun): Good actions that accumulate positive karma
- Four Noble Truths: Life involves suffering; suffering comes from desire; ending desire ends suffering; following the Eightfold Path leads to enlightenment
- Karma: Actions have consequences across multiple lifetimes
- Five Precepts: Avoid killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxication
Temple Elements: What You're Seeing
- Chedi/Stupa: Bell-shaped structures containing relics
- Bot/Ubosot: Ordination hall (most sacred building)
- Viharn: Assembly hall for ceremonies
- Naga: Serpent figures protecting entrances
- Lanna Style: Northern Thai architecture with tiered roofs and distinctive decorations
Monks in Thai Society
Orange-robed monks are highly respected in Thai society. Many Thai men temporarily ordain as monks at some point in their lives, often for a few weeks or months.
Important monk etiquette:
- Women should never touch monks or hand things directly to them
- Everyone should sit lower than monks during conversations
- Morning alms-giving is a sacred tradition - observe respectfully
- Monks eat only between sunrise and noon each day
- "Monk Chat" programs at some temples offer chances to practice English with monks and learn about Buddhism
Temple Visit Etiquette
- Dress modestly: covered shoulders and knees required
- Remove shoes before entering buildings (not always necessary in courtyards)
- Women may not enter some areas or touch certain Buddha images
- Sit with feet pointing away from Buddha images (never toward)
- Speak quietly and turn off phone ringers
- It's appropriate to make small donations (20-40 Baht) at temples you visit
Cultural Contexts: History & Traditions
Lanna Kingdom History
Chiang Mai was founded in 1296 as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom ("Kingdom of a Million Rice Fields"). For centuries, it was a separate kingdom from Siam (Thailand), with its own language, customs, and artistic traditions.
The city's distinctive culture comes from its unique history:
- Founded by King Mengrai after consulting with his allies
- Strategic location on trade routes between China and Burma
- Conquered by Burma in 1558 and ruled for over 200 years
- Became part of Siam (Thailand) in the late 18th century
- Lanna revival movement in recent decades celebrating northern identity
Local Traditions & Taboos
- Khantoke Dinner: Traditional northern feast eaten at low tables
- Sai Sin: White blessing strings tied around wrists for protection
- Spirit Houses: Small shrines housing protective spirits
- Taboo: Touching someone's head (considered sacred)
- Taboo: Pointing feet at people or Buddha images
- Taboo: Public displays of anger (loss of face)
Why Thai Food Is Balanced
Thai cuisine balances five fundamental flavors in each meal: sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter. Northern Thai food (Lanna cuisine) has its own distinctive characteristics:
- Less spicy than central/southern Thai food
- More herbs and bitter flavors
- Influence from Burma and Yunnan (China)
- Sticky rice rather than jasmine rice as staple
- Famous dishes developed for cooler northern climate
Key Local Festivals
- Yi Peng & Loi Krathong (November): Sky lantern release and floating offerings on water
- Songkran (April 13-15): Thai New Year with water fights
- Flower Festival (February): Parade and displays when flowers bloom
- Bo Sang Umbrella Festival (January): Celebrates traditional paper umbrella making
- Inthakin City Pillar Festival (May/June): Ancient ceremony to protect the city
Local Voice: A Guide's Perspective
"Chiang Mai is unique because we preserve our Lanna identity while embracing the modern world. Locals still give alms to monks in the morning, then work on laptops in coffee shops. The best way to experience our city is to slow down - don't rush from temple to temple. Spend time in one place, observe daily life, and join in local activities. Try greeting people with 'Sawatdee kha/khrap' and a smile - it opens many doors."
Festivals & Events Calendar
January - April
- New Year's Day (Jan 1): Public holiday
- Bo Sang Umbrella Festival (Jan): Handicraft celebration
- Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb): Celebrations in Warorot area
- Chiang Mai Flower Festival (Feb): Floral parade, competitions
- Songkran (Apr 13-15): Thai New Year water festival
May - August
- Inthakin City Pillar Festival (May/Jun): Religious ceremony
- Visakha Bucha (May): Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death
- Asahna Bucha (Jul): Buddha's first sermon
- Khao Phansa (Jul): Beginning of Buddhist Lent
- Queen's Birthday/Mother's Day (Aug 12): Celebrations
September - December
- Awk Phansa (Oct): End of Buddhist Lent
- Vegetarian Festival (Oct): Chinese-influenced
- Yi Peng & Loi Krathong (Nov): Lantern festival
- Chiang Mai Marathon (Dec): International running event
- New Year Countdown (Dec 31): Celebrations all over city
Even if your visit doesn't coincide with major festivals, ask locals about current cultural events - there are often smaller ceremonies, art exhibitions, and music performances happening throughout the year.
5. Cheat Sheets
Quick Reference Phrases
Basics & Greetings
| Hello | Sawatdee kha/khrap | kha for women, khrap for men |
| Thank you | Khop khun kha/khrap | Add "mak" for "thank you very much" |
| Yes/No | Chai/Mai chai | chai = yes, mai chai = no |
| Excuse me | Khor thot | also means "sorry" |
| I don't understand | Mai khao jai | useful phrase! |
Directions & Transport
| Where is...? | ... yoo tee nai? | Insert location before "yoo" |
| How much? | Tao rai? | Essential for markets/taxis |
| Too expensive | Paeng pai | Useful for negotiating |
| Go straight | Dtrong pai | Giving directions |
| Stop here | Jot tee nee | For tuk-tuks/songthaews |
Food & Dining
| Delicious | Aroi | Add "mak" for "very delicious" |
| Not spicy | Mai phet | Important for many visitors! |
| Bill please | Check bin | Make a writing motion in air |
| Water | Nam plao | plao = plain (without gas) |
| Beer | Bia | Sounds similar to English |
Common Allergies & Dietary Needs
| I'm allergic to... | Pae... | Add ingredient after |
| Peanuts | Tua lisong | Common in Thai dishes |
| Seafood | Ahaan talay | Fish sauce is in many dishes |
| No meat | Mai sai neua sat | For vegetarians |
| Vegan/Vegetarian | Jay/Mang-sa-wi-rat | Jay = vegan, stricter |
Thai is a tonal language with 5 different tones that change word meanings.
Don't worry about perfect pronunciation - Thais appreciate any attempt to speak their language and are usually very understanding!
Northern Thai Food Guide
Khao Soi
Curried noodle soup with chicken or beef
The iconic Chiang Mai dish. Egg noodles in curry broth topped with crispy noodles and served with lime, pickled vegetables, and chili paste.
Where to try: Khao Soi Lam Duan, Khao Soi Maesai
Sai Ua
Northern Thai herb sausage
Grilled pork sausage infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and red curry paste. Distinctive and aromatic.
Where to try: Warorot Market, Huen Phen restaurant
Nam Prik Ong
Red chili dip with pork
Tomato and minced pork dip served with fresh vegetables and pork rinds. Less spicy than other Thai dips, with a sweet-savory flavor.
Where to try: Tong Tem Toh, local markets
Gaeng Hung Lay
Northern pork curry
Rich, slightly sweet curry with tender pork, ginger, tamarind, and peanuts. Burmese-influenced dish with complex flavors.
Where to try: Huen Phen, The House Restaurant
Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiaw
Rice noodles in tomato broth
Thin rice noodles in a spicy broth with tomatoes, pork blood cubes, and dried flowers. Intense flavor profile unique to northern Thailand.
Where to try: Chang Puak Gate Market, Huen Phen
Mango Sticky Rice
Sweet dessert (Khao Niew Mamuang)
Sweet sticky rice with coconut milk, served with fresh mangoes. Best during mango season (March-June) when mangoes are sweetest.
Where to try: Night markets, Mango Tango cafe
Finding Authentic Northern Thai Food
Look for these clues that a restaurant serves authentic northern Thai cuisine:
- "Ahaan Muang" (Northern Food) signs
- Bamboo serving baskets for sticky rice
- Kantoke (low tables with circular trays)
- Local customers (always a good sign!)
- Menu featuring dishes listed above
- Plastic stools (often indicate authentic local food)
- Limited English on menu (may indicate less tourist-focused)
- Elderly women cooking (often the best chefs!)
Tipping & Pricing Guide
Tipping Culture
- Restaurants: 10% for good service at nicer places; not expected at casual eateries but appreciated
- Street Food: No tipping expected, but rounding up is appreciated
- Massage: 50-100 Baht per person for a standard treatment
- Taxis/Tuk-tuks: Round up or additional 20-40 Baht for good service
- Tour Guides: 100-300 Baht per day, depending on group size and service quality
- Hotel Staff: 20 Baht per bag for porters; 20-40 Baht per day for housekeeping
Unlike in the US, tipping isn't mandatory in Thailand, but it's increasingly common in tourist areas.
Fair Price Guide
| Street food meal | 40-80 Baht |
| Local restaurant meal | 80-150 Baht |
| Western restaurant meal | 200-500+ Baht |
| Local beer (in restaurant) | 70-120 Baht |
| Coffee in nice café | 60-120 Baht |
| 1-hour traditional massage | 200-350 Baht |
| Tuk-tuk ride (within city) | 100-200 Baht |
| Songthaew ride | 30-60 Baht per person |
| Temple entrance (if charged) | 30-50 Baht (Doi Suthep: 60 Baht) |
| Typical souvenir t-shirt | 200-300 Baht |
Avoiding Rip-offs
- Always confirm prices before ordering or boarding vehicles
- Be wary of tuk-tuk drivers offering "special tours" or very low fares
- Negotiate prices for goods at markets (start at 50-60% of asking price)
- Check your bill for unexpected service charges (sometimes added)
- Comparison shop before buying souvenirs
- Use Grab app to gauge fair taxi prices
- Ask hotel staff what prices should be for common services
- Be especially careful with gem shops and custom suit offers
Emergency Help Page
Emergency Numbers
| Tourist Police | 1155 | English-speaking |
| Police | 191 | General emergencies |
| Ambulance/Medical | 1669 | Emergency medical services |
| Fire | 199 | Fire department |
| Tourist Service Center | 1672 | Tourism information |
Recommended Hospitals
- Chiang Mai Ram Hospital
8 Boonruangrit Rd, Suthep
Tel: 053-224-861
International standards, English-speaking staff - Maharaj Nakorn Hospital
110 Inthawarorot Rd, Sriphum
Tel: 053-936-150
Government hospital, lower costs, good care - McCormick Hospital
133 Kaeonawarat Rd, Wat Ket
Tel: 053-921-777
Long-established mission hospital, moderate costs
Consulates in Chiang Mai
- U.S. Consulate General
387 Wichayanon Rd, Chang Moi
Tel: 053-107-700
Emergency after-hours: +66-2-205-4000 - British Honorary Consulate
198 Bumrungraj Rd, Wat Ket
Tel: 053-263-015
Limited services - Australian Consulate
6th Floor, Chiang Mai Airport Business Park
Tel: 053-283-480
Limited services, by appointment
In Case of Emergency
- Lost passport: File police report first (tourist police), then contact your consulate
- Theft/scams: Contact tourist police at 1155 for assistance in English
- Medical emergency: Call 1669 or go directly to Chiang Mai Ram Hospital
- Lost credit cards: Most international numbers work from Thailand with + prefix
- Natural disasters: Follow instructions from local authorities
Save This Info Offline
Screenshot this page to have emergency information available even without internet connection.
Consider registering with your country's travel advisory service before your trip:
- USA: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
- UK: Foreign Travel Advice
- Australia: Smartraveller
- Canada: Travel Advice and Advisories
6. Make It Meaningful
Responsible Traveler Checklist
Environmental Responsibility
- Refuse plastic bags when shopping (bring a reusable tote)
- Carry a reusable water bottle (most hotels have refill stations)
- Avoid single-use plastics in cafés (many now offer paper straws)
- Walk or use public transport when possible
- Choose eco-friendly tour operators
- Respect nature during hiking and outdoor activities
Ethical Animal Tourism
- Avoid elephant riding (choose observation or bathing only)
- Research elephant sanctuaries carefully (true sanctuaries don't force performances)
- Skip tiger attractions (sedation concerns)
- Say no to wildlife photo opportunities with captive animals
- Don't buy products made from endangered species
- Recommended: Elephant Nature Park, Elephant PooPooPaper Park
Cultural Sensitivity
- Dress modestly at temples and religious sites
- Ask permission before photographing people
- Learn basic Thai phrases and greetings
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Remove shoes when requested (temples, homes, some shops)
- Be mindful when visiting hill tribe communities
Economic Impact
- Shop at local markets rather than international chains
- Choose locally-owned restaurants and accommodations
- Buy directly from artisans when possible
- Pay fair prices (extreme bargaining hurts local livelihoods)
- Tip appropriately for good service
- Consider carbon offsetting for your flights
Hill Tribe Tourism Ethics
Hill tribe villages are homes, not human zoos. If you want to visit, consider these guidelines:
- Choose community-based tourism initiatives where profits benefit locals
- Hire local guides who speak the tribal language
- Ask permission before taking photos
- Purchase handicrafts directly from artisans
- Be wary of "long-neck" Karen villages specifically set up for tourists
- Research tour operators' ethical practices before booking
How to Give Back Locally
Support Meaningful Organizations
- Free Bird Café: Helps Burmese refugees with education programs
- Women's Correctional Institution: Rehabilitation through massage training
- Elephant Nature Park: Rescue and rehabilitation for elephants
- Art Relief International: Uses art therapy with marginalized communities
- Wildflower Home: Supports single mothers and their children
Quick Ways to Help
- Eat at social enterprise restaurants like Free Bird Café
- Book a massage at the Women's Correctional Institution
- Join a cooking class that supports local families
- Purchase handicrafts from fair trade shops
- Donate unused toiletries to local shelters before departure
Responsible Volunteering
Short-term volunteering can sometimes do more harm than good. If you want to volunteer during your stay:
- Focus on skill-sharing rather than work that locals could be paid for
- Avoid short-term work with vulnerable children (creates attachment issues)
- Research organizations thoroughly before committing
- Consider these ethical options for short visits:
English Conversation Practice: Language Exchange Meetups
Help locals practice English while learning Thai at free community events.
Environmental Work: Trash Hero Chiang Mai
Join weekly cleanup events around the city and natural areas.
Animal Care: Care for Dogs Foundation
Walk shelter dogs and help with socialization (no long-term commitment required).
Local Business Spotlights
Akha Ama Coffee
Sustainable coffee cooperative
Founded by a young Akha tribesman to create sustainable income for his village. The coffee is grown, processed, and roasted by hill tribe farmers who receive fair compensation.
Visit: Multiple locations including Old City branch
Cabbages & Condoms
Restaurant supporting public health
Quirky restaurant where profits support HIV prevention and family planning programs. Good northern Thai food in a fun atmosphere decorated with creative condom art.
Visit: Rattanakosin Rd, north of Old City
Studio Naenna
Ethical textile studio
Preserves traditional natural dyeing and weaving techniques while creating sustainable livelihoods for local artisans. Offers workshops on indigo dyeing and textile arts.
Visit: Studio in Nong Hoi area, southeast of city
Elephant PooPooPaper Park
Eco-friendly paper production
Interactive park showcasing how paper is made from elephant dung fiber. Educational, sustainable, and surprisingly non-smelly! Supports elephant conservation efforts.
Visit: San Kamphaeng area, east of Chiang Mai
Healing Family Foundation
Cooking classes for good cause
Cooking school that trains and employs single mothers and disadvantaged women. Learn authentic Thai dishes while supporting women's economic independence.
Visit: Near Tha Phae Gate, Old City
Border Bird Books
Independent English bookstore
Locally-owned English bookshop featuring Thai authors, travel guides, and children's books. Supports literacy programs and local writers through regular events.
Visit: Nimmanhaemin Rd, Soi 2
Take It Home: Meaningful Souvenirs
Ethical Shopping Guide
The best souvenirs tell a story and support local artisans. Consider these meaningful options:
- Handwoven Textiles: Hmong and Karen fabrics, naturally dyed
- Celadon Pottery: Traditional green-glazed ceramics
- Saa Paper Products: Handmade mulberry paper items
- Northern Thai Coffee: Directly supporting hill tribe farmers
- Silver Jewelry: Handcrafted by Karen artisans
- Wooden Crafts: Sustainable teak or bamboo products
- Thai Cooking Ingredients: Curry pastes and spice blends
Where to Find Quality Handicrafts
- OTOP Showroom: Government-certified handicrafts
- Warorot Market: Local prices, variety of goods
- Saturday/Sunday Walking Streets: Meet artisans directly
- Ban Tawai: Handicraft village south of city
- Nimman Promenade: Contemporary Thai designs
What to Avoid
- Products made from endangered species (ivory, some woods)
- Buddha images as decorative items (religious significance)
- Counterfeit goods and unlicensed merchandise
- Mass-produced "hill tribe" crafts from China
- Antiques (export restrictions may apply)
Beyond Objects: Experience Souvenirs
The most meaningful souvenirs aren't things:
- Cooking Skills: Take a class and bring recipes home
- Massage Techniques: Learn basics in a workshop
- Language: Master key Thai phrases beyond the basics
- Meditation Practice: Learn from temple meditation courses
- Craft Skills: Try umbrella painting or saa papermaking
Packing Tips for Fragile Items
- Many handicraft shops offer bubble wrapping services
- Ceramics can be professionally packed at shipping shops
- Textiles make excellent padding for other fragile items
- Consider shipping larger items through Thailand Post
- Keep receipts for potentially valuable items (customs)
