Chiang Mai is tucked away in northern Thailand, a sanctuary of sorts where wanderlust and a rich culture fuse to make it a memorable holiday destination.
Chiang Mai Provinces
Northern Thailand is home to some of the country’s most scenic and culturally rich provinces, and many travellers use Chiang Mai as a gateway to explore the wider region.
Surrounded by mountains, national parks, temples, and traditional Lanna towns, the provinces near Chiang Mai each offer unique attractions and experiences.
Chiang Mai Provinces, Location Guides, Area Map, Attractions, Thailand
Chiang Mai Province is by far the most popular destination in Northern Thailand and is famous for its mix of culture, adventure and nature. The province is home to the bustling city of Chiang Mai, historic temples such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and the towering Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest mountain. Visitors flock here for trekking, elephant sanctuaries, mountain scenery, night markets and traditional Lanna cuisine.
Chiang Mai also acts as the main hub for exploring nearby provinces and remote hill tribe villages.
To the north lies Chiang Rai Province, another hugely popular province known for its striking temples and mountain landscapes. Chiang Rai is home to the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the Blue Temple and the Golden Triangle region where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet. The province attracts travellers looking for scenic drives, tea plantations, hill tribe communities and cooler mountain weather.
Many visitors combine Chiang Rai with Chiang Mai as part of a Northern Thailand road trip.
West of Chiang Mai is Mae Hong Son Province, one of Thailand’s most mountainous and picturesque provinces. Famous for the winding Mae Hong Son Loop, this province includes the laid-back town of Pai, a favourite among backpackers and nature lovers. Travellers come here for waterfalls, hot springs, scenic mountain roads and misty viewpoints. Mae Hong Son is also known for its ethnic hill tribe culture and peaceful atmosphere.
South of Chiang Mai is Lamphun Province, a smaller but historically significant province filled with ancient temples and traditional Northern Thai charm. Lamphun was once part of the ancient Hariphunchai Kingdom and remains a great destination for visitors interested in history, culture and quieter local experiences. Its close proximity to Chiang Mai makes it an easy day trip.
Nearby Lampang Province is known for its relaxed atmosphere, horse-drawn carriages and beautiful Lanna-style architecture. Lampang is less touristy than Chiang Mai but offers excellent cultural attractions, mountain scenery and historic temples. It is also an important transport hub in Northern Thailand and popular with travellers seeking a slower pace.
Further east, provinces such as Nan Province and Phayao Province are becoming increasingly popular for travellers seeking untouched scenery and authentic local experiences.
These provinces feature dramatic mountain landscapes, national parks, quiet countryside roads and fewer crowds than the better-known destinations.
Chiang Mai was the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom between 1296-1768 and today, is capital of the Chiang Mai Province in northern-Thailand. The Chiang Mai Old City is classified as the area contained within the...
Chiang Rai is one of the most exciting travel destinations in Thailand, a fact that can be attributed to its diverse attractions and warmth of the locals.
Hang Dong is a district within the Chiang Mai Province and is a popular residential centre for ex-pats living in northern Thailand. Hang Dong is located just 15 kms south of the old city and is bordered by other...
Nimmanhaemin, commonly referred to as ‘Nimman’, is a relatively new area in Chiang Mai, but one that has rapidly become the place to be for travellers and expats. With a huge range of restaurants, cafes...
Pai is a quaint town in the northern part of Thailand. The town has grown tremendously over the years, and has often been compared to Khao San in Bangkok.
Lampang, one of Thailand’s lesser known travel destination, is just as incredible as the more popular options, thanks to its diverse natural attractions.
Lamphun is a quiet town in northern Thailand, one that is best known for its administrative position as the headquarters of Lamphun Province.
Mae Hong Son is the perfect picture of a remote Thai travel destination, one that is as secluded as it is enchanting. It makes for a unique getaway.
Phrae is the previous headquarters of Thailand’s flourishing teak sector. This is evidenced by the numerous teak bungalows as well as reserved forests.
Mae Rim is a district in Chiang Mai province which located about 20 minutes north of the Chiang Mai old city. A beautiful mountainous area, Mae Rim is best known for having action adventure activities, elephant parks...
San Sai is located in the heart of Chiang Mai province and an attractive getaway for visitors looking for a laid-back rural life that is far from the hustle and bustle of northern Thailand’s busy tourist areas...
Chang Puak is not a popular tourist attractions in Chiang Mai, but is the kind you discover and feel thrilled at the prospect of uncovering a hidden gem.
Chiang Dao is a scenic setting that enchants travellers who would like to steer clear of Bangkok’s bustling energy and embrace the tranquil environment.
Nan is a secluded province nestled in north eastern Thailand. This unique destination awaits your exploration as you set to uncover its diverse attractions.
Fang is a district located in the north of Chiang Mai province; named after the fang tree, because its landscape resembles its seed. It’s one of the most underrated destinations in northern Thailand and is highly...
Mae Salong is also known as Santikhiri village. It is the epitome of Chinese influence in Thailand, and is nestled in the hilly ranges of Chiang Rai.
Mae Sariang is a tiny town that borders Yuam River close to the Myanmar border in north Thailand. This quaint town charms visitors with its setting.
Chiang Khong is a town in the province of Chiang Rai; often overlooked by travellers because it is usually just a stopover point for people heading for Laos. However, this small but charming town has a lot of hidden...
Phayao is a quiet city tucked away in the expansive northern region of Thailand, a place that remains relatively unfamiliar even for natives.
Phu Chi Fa is an enticing travel destination for the adventurous visitor looking for a thrilling trip across Thailand’s most laid-back attractions.
Mae Sai is one of those Thai towns whose visit you will not forget in a long time, and for good reason. It presents an epic adventure for the curious traveller.
Doi Tao is a district located in the southern part of Chiang Mai Province; best known for its beautiful natural lake and several other surprising attractions for the curious traveller. To get the most out of this...
Chiang Saen is one of the prominent towns located in north Thailand and a favourite for adventure-travellers. This laid-back destination is a must-visit.
Doi Saket is a district in Chiang Mai; located in the eastern side of the province. Much of the land is used for farming, with a sprinkling of picturesque rice terraces, valleys, and orchards as well. Getting here is an...
Mae Chaem is a district of Chiang Mai and a scenic remote destination that nature lovers will appreciate. Most of the landscape is covered in lush mountains, valleys, and rice fields, with lots of opportunities for both...
Mae Taeng is a district located in the northern area of Chiang Mai Province, with various cultural, historical, and natural attractions within the area that make it worth visiting for a few days. Wat Ban Den is a...
San Kamphaeng is located some 13 kilometres east of Chiang Mai. It is renowned for its world-class silk factories and handicrafts, which are worth going out of town because of their excellent quality, craftsmanship, and...
Thaton is one of the most northern towns of Chiang Mai in Thailand. This small town attracts visitors interested in a unique Thai experience altogether.
Chai Prakan is a district located at the northern area of the Chiang Mai province in Thailand. Its neighbouring regions include Chiang Dao, Phrao, Fang, and Mae Suai. On the eastern side of this district is the majestic...
Chang Moi is a subdistrict of Chiang Mai and a terrific location that makes it a top choice for travellers who want to be close to many of Chiang Mai’s best tourist attractions including food, shopping, and...
Chom Thong is a district located in the southern area of Chiang Mai. There are six sub-districts here: Ban Luang, Sop Tia, Ban Pae, Doi Kaeo, Mae Soi, and Chom Thong. It is best known for being home to the Doi Inthanon...
Doi Lo is a district of Chiang Mai that is bordered by Chom Thong, San Pa Tong, Mae Wang, Pa Sang, and Wiang Nong Long in the Lamphun province. The district is divided into four sub-districts, which are divided further...
Hai Ya is a small sub-district of the Chiang Mai; located a few minutes away from the busy tourist areas near the Chiang Mai gate. There are inexpensive accommodation options for travellers who would like to stay here...
Mae On is a district in east Chiang Mai, and although it’s rarely visited by travellers, this part of Chiang Mai is famous among rock-climbing enthusiasts, as well as curious visitors who enjoy venturing away from...
Mae Wang is located in central Chiang Mai and is known for an abundance of spectacular natural attractions; including a national park, valleys, and rivers. Ban Kat is the district’s primary commercial and town...
Omkoi is a district located at the south-western-most corner of Chiang Mai province and a three-hour drive from the Chiang Mai old city. What makes this destination worth visiting is that it offers a glimpse into the...
Phrao is located in the north-eastern area of Chiang Mai province. The major town is called the same name, which was given to the city by King Mangrai during 1281. King Mangrai was on his way to occupy the Hariphunchai...
Samoeng is a small town located around 50 kilometres away from Chiang Mai. Most of the community is made up of farmers, and it’s tucked into a beautiful valley at an elevation of 550 meters. It’s best known...
The San Pa Tong district is located around 20 kilometres from the Chiang Mai old city. For many travellers looking for unique experiences, it’s the perfect half-day excursion, but there are also enough charming...
What are the top provinces to visit in Chiang Mai?
The top provinces to visit in Chiang Mai are:Check out the whole list of provinces in Chiang Mai.
What are the top attractions to visit in Chiang Mai?
The top attractions to visit in Chiang Mai are:
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Elephant Nature Park
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Bhubing Palace
- Doi Inthanon National Park
What are the most popular annual events in Chiang Mai?
The most popular annual events in Chiang Mai are:Check out the whole list of provinces in Chiang Mai.
