Luxury Chiang Mai Vacations
Chiang Mai is a sprawling metropolis with an ancient heart of vibrant markets, bustling night bazaars, and serene monasteries.
- Bespoke Chiang Mai tours
- Unique private experiences led by local guides
- Award-winning travel experts
- Curated collection of Chiang Mai hotels
Enveloped on all sides by jungle, Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second-largest city. Though Chiang Mai now extends far beyond the ancient city walls, the markets of the old city offer a chance to experience a traditional way of life in Thailand. Hill tribes bring exquisitely crafted goods to the night bazaars, where the rich scents of street food and spices tantalizingly drift along on the warm night air, and local shoppers haggle with a jovial camaraderie.
With our unrivaled expertise and insider knowledge, we'll curate a personalized itinerary that showcases the best of Chiang Mai. From exploring ancient temples and vibrant markets to embarking on thrilling jungle treks and encountering elephants in their natural habitat, we'll ensure every moment of your Chiang Mai tour is filled with enchantment.
Luxury Chiang Mai Hotels & Tours
Nestled in the lush mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of culture, nature and adventure. Whether you're seeking a serene retreat or an action-packed getaway, our carefully curated collection of luxury hotels in Chiang Mai highlights the diverse offerings here.
Paired with our expert local guides, our personalized tours here truly show the best of this country. Our team is passionate about showcasing this captivating city's best and will show you where to stay in Chiang Mai to get off the beaten path and discover hidden gems and unique experiences.
Raya Heritage
Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, Thailand
Located just north of Chiang Mai center, Raya Heritage provides a tranquil retreat, welcoming you home after days exploring. With Lanna architecture and a keen focus on local craftsman, Raya Heritage fully immerses you in culture of North Thailand.
137 Pillars House
Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, Thailand
137 Pillars House has the feel of being secluded in a secret and lush tropical garden in the heart of Chiang Mai. This hidden gem has an old world charm, transporting you to times gone by with the history of the main house.
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, Thailand
Located within the city, Anantara Chiang Mai (formerly the Chedi) stylishly combines a resort feel with a prime location. It is in the heart of beautiful scenery and traditional culture and a stone's throw from the bustle of the night markets.
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, Thailand
A wonderful Four Seasons resort set in a tranquil, idyllic location. The perfect luxury base from which to explore the local culture, relax, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and experience excellent service and facilities.
Tamarind Village
Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, Thailand
Tamarind Village is a beautiful boutique property surrounded by temples and shopping streets and is the perfect base from which to explore the wonders of Chiang Mai.
Things to Do in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is known for its rich history, cultural heritage and natural beauty. If you're planning a vacation in Chiang Mai, here are some top attractions and activities you shouldn't miss. Whether you want to explore the ancient temples, interact with the local hill tribes, or embark on an adventurous jungle trek, our guides will ensure an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Visit an Elephant Sanctuary
In Chiang Mai, you’ll find ethical elephant sanctuaries where you can interact with these majestic creatures responsibly and sustainably. Visit the Elephant Discovery Camp and spend a day feeding, bathing and learning about the Asian elephants while supporting conservation efforts.
You can also join a Walking with Giants excursion where you journey into the jungle with a mahout and walk alongside the elephants to observe them in their natural habitat. Additionally, you can explore other wildlife experiences like visiting the Doi Inthanon National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare bird species.
Street Food Markets and Culinary Experiences
From enticing street food where Thailand’s sweet and savory scents lull you to their lively markets to intimate hands-on culinary classes where you’ll learn to cook like the local chefs, Chiang Mai’s food scene is vibrant and inviting.
Take part in Grandma’s Home Cooking School for an immersive journey. Join a local chef in a traditional open-air sala, where you’ll learn the secrets to Thai cuisine's iconic flavor, before heading to the market to pick out locally sourced ingredients for the cooking portion of your experience.
Or spend the evening diving into the city’s night street food market with a local guide, enjoying a variety of “must-try” dishes.
Ancient Temples & Monasteries
Chiang Mai is home to over 300 temples, each with its own unique charm and architectural style. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a stunning temple situated on a mountain overlooking the city, to experience breathtaking views and intricate Buddhist artwork.
We recommend spending the morning with the Monks and witnessing their daily pilgrimage from the monastery to walk the streets for the alms collection, then spend the day visiting temples and dining at a local restaurant.
Don't forget to explore the historic temples within the ancient walled city, such as Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh, to immerse yourself in the city's spiritual atmosphere.
Outdoor Activities: Trekking and Cycling
Chiang Mai offers various outdoor activities, with national parks and rural landscapes outside the city.
Spend a day hiking through Doi Inthanon National Park visiting the local Karen hill tribe, spotting wildlife and ending the day with a dramatic view of the Wachiratharn Waterfall. Depending on the season, you’ll also pass the vivid green rice fields.
Or venture out into the countryside by bike, where you’ll cycle along the Ping River visiting ancient archaeological sites, passing traditional teakwood houses and exploring Ban Tawai where you’ll find workshops and specialty crafted goods.
FAQs for Chiang Mai Tours
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Depending on what you’d like to experience, there’s a variety of best times to visit Chiang Mai.
While November to March is Thailand’s dry season, and typically the best time to visit Chiang Mai, we also enjoy visiting in June and July during the rainy season for off-peak travel and stunning landscapes.
In June and July, it’s the start of the rainy season when the weather is only beginning to heat up (although there’s less humidity here), and the countryside is bursting with lush greenery just waiting to be explored.
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We recommend visiting Chiang Mai as part of a larger tour of Thailand, spending about 3 nights at the best hotels in Chiang Mai.
During this time, you can spend the day traipsing the city and temples, visiting the countryside and walking with elephants before heading to one of the west coast islands for complete R&R.
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Phuket and Chiang Mai are two very different areas, and we recommend you visit both. However, if you only have time for one place, it will depend on what you’d like to experience.
Chiang Mai is in the north of mainland Thailand. Here, expect sleepy villages with a distinct cultural identity, lush national parks and the chance to learn from the hill tribes and monasteries that grace the area.
Phuket is more of a resort-styled retreat with a buzzy nightlife and stunning white sand beaches. Here expect world-renowned spas and palm-fringed views.
Both offer the chance to disconnect but in different ways.
Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your adventure to Thailand.
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Why Scott Dunn for Chiang Mai Vacations?
Unique to You
- We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are personalized to you.
- We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.
Seamless Service
- Global offices in the UK, US, and Singapore for 24/7 seamless service.
- We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.
Carefully Curated Collection
- We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
- Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.
Luxury in Every Sense
- We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
- Awarded Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Travel Specialists in the World 12 years in a row.