Chiang Mai
The calm city of the north; mountain temples.
📷 Chiang Mai · Wikipedia/Wikimedia CommonsChiang Mai offers a calm balance to Bangkok’s pace with its walled old town, the Doi Suthep mountain temple and craft villages. It is also known for nature tours and ethical elephant sanctuaries.
🗓️ The dry season (November–April) is ideal for most regions; avoid the monsoon months.
Nearby stops
HanoiVietnam’s historic capital; old quarters.Ha Long BayA UNESCO bay of karst islands.Hoi AnA fairy-tale old town of lantern-lit streets.Ho Chi Minh CityThe vibrant metropolis and gateway to the Mekong.Bali – UbudAn island of rice terraces and temples.BangkokTemples, bazaars and vibrant street life.HueThe imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty.Da NangA modern coastal city and the Marble Mountains.SapaTerraced rice fields and mountain villages.PhuketThailand’s largest holiday island.KrabiLimestone cliffs and the Railay beaches.Kuala LumpurThe Petronas Towers and a Muslim-friendly metropolis.SingaporeFuturistic gardens and a multicultural city-state.KyotoTemples, geisha quarters and ancient Japan.TokyoA vast metropolis where tradition meets futurism.Siem ReapThe gateway to the Angkor Wat temples.
Related guides
Bali Travel Guide: Temples and Rice Terraces
The rice terraces of Ubud, the temples and the southern beaches: route, season and practical tips for Bali.
Thailand 10-Day Route: From Bangkok to the Islands
A balanced 10-day Thailand route covering Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the southern islands.
When to Visit Vietnam? Season and Climate
The climate of northern, central and southern Vietnam and the best months; monsoon, temperature and route planning.