A charming cultural capital in northern Thailand that’s one of the country’s most-visited tourist destinations, Chiang Mai is a laid-back locale sure to leave a lasting impression. Here you can spend your days hopping from one fascinating Buddhist temple to the next – there are literally hundreds of them – and your nights dining on the region’s distinct (and spicy) cuisine or strolling through a colorful night market set just off the picturesque Ping River. Chiang Mai is also a great base for explorations of the mountainous countryside, where you can go bamboo rafting, hop on an elephant for a ride in the wilderness or embark on an adventurous trek through the jungle. Whether you’re here for cultural pursuits, action and adventure or to unwind in one of the many world-class luxury resorts, Chiang Mai is truly a destination offering something for everyone.
