Northern Thailand's old walled capital: hundreds of temples inside a moat square, mountains on three sides, night markets, and the coffee the north grows.
Free things to do
Free
Old city temple loop on foot
Chedi Luang, Phra Singh, and whichever gold roof pulls you in. Thirty-odd wats inside the moat and most ask nothing at the door.
Free
Sunday walking street & night bazaar
Khao soi first, shopping second, mango sticky rice third. The walking street is Sunday only; the night bazaar runs every night.
Free
Wat Umong's tunnels and forest
A 700-year-old forest monastery at the foot of Doi Suthep: brick tunnels, a lake of turtles, and sayings nailed to the trees. Donation box, no ticket.
Where to stay
from $15
168 Chiangmai Guesthouse
Dorm bed · per night · 168chiang Mai guesthouse is private room, family room and bunk bed dormitory with shared shower rooms and toilets.