Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of northern Thailand, is a city that captures the essence of the country through its mix of history, nature, vibrant culture, and culinary delights. Chiang Mai is a must-visit location if you're looking for a complete Thailand experience. Chiang Mai offers a wide range of activities and experiences, from exploring ancient temples and bustling markets to trekking through lush forests and participating in traditional festivals.

If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai, here’s my guide to the top things to do in the centre of the city and things to know about Chiang Mai 

Is Chiang Mai Safe?

Yes, Chiang Mai is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. The city is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, and violent crime is rare. However, like any popular tourist destination, it's important to stay vigilant and take common-sense precautions.

Here are a few safety tips for visiting Chiang Mai:

Watch Out for Scams

While scams aren't rampant in Chiang Mai, tourists should be cautious. Some common scams include tuk-tuk drivers offering overly cheap tours that turn out to be high-pressure sales tactics or overpriced gem stores. Always agree on the fare upfront for tuk-tuks or taxis, and be cautious of “too good to be true” deals.

Traffic and Road Safety

The traffic in Chiang Mai can be busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. Be cautious when crossing streets, as traffic lights and pedestrian crossings are sometimes not strictly followed by drivers. Renting a motorbike is popular, but if you choose to do so, make sure you wear a helmet, have an international driving permit, and drive carefully.

Stay Alert at Night

Chiang Mai is relatively safe at night, especially in areas like the Old City, Nimmanhaemin, and along the Night Bazaar. However, it’s always wise to avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas or less populated streets late at night.

Health and Hygiene

While the city’s tap water is not drinkable, bottled water is readily available. Be mindful of food hygiene when eating at street food stalls and try to pick vendors that appear busy and clean.

It’s also a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of illness or injury.

Overall, Chiang Mai is a safe city for tourists, with the usual precautions one would take in any foreign city.

Take a Cooking Class and Enjoy Chiang Mai food

Chiang Mai is renowned for its delicious northern Thai cuisine, which features rich flavors, aromatic herbs, and fresh ingredients. One of the best ways to experience the local food culture is by taking a cooking class. Many cooking schools in Chiang Mai offer hands-on classes where you can learn to make traditional Thai dishes, from spicy curries to flavorful stir-fries. Some popular cooking classes include:

Baipai Thai Cooking School

Baipai Thai Cooking School offers a comprehensive cooking experience that includes a tour of a local market to select fresh ingredients before learning how to prepare dishes like pad thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice. The school provides an intimate, hands-on experience with small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention.

The Chiang Mai Thai Cookery School

One of the oldest and most established cooking schools in Chiang Mai, The Chiang Mai Thai Cookery School offers a variety of classes, including a half-day course and a full-day course. The school focuses on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and you'll learn how to make both traditional and contemporary Thai dishes.

Thai Farm Cooking School

For those who want to get closer to the farm-to-table experience, Thai Farm Cooking School offers classes that take place at a working organic farm. After a tour of the farm, you’ll learn to cook traditional Thai dishes using ingredients grown on-site. The school is known for its beautiful setting and relaxed atmosphere.

Chiang Mai is a food lover’s paradise, offering an incredible array of flavors, from street food stalls to fine dining. Northern Thai cuisine is known for its rich and aromatic dishes, and there are plenty of opportunities to sample local specialties. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

Khao Soi

A signature dish of northern Thailand, Khao Soi is a rich and flavorful curry noodle soup made with egg noodles, a fragrant coconut curry broth, and your choice of meat, such as chicken or beef. It’s often served with pickled mustard greens, shallots, and crispy noodles on top.

Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage)

This aromatic sausage is made with minced pork, herbs, and spices, including lemongrass, garlic, and chili. It's often grilled to perfection and served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables.

Nam Prik Noom

A traditional northern Thai chili dip, Nam Prik Noom is made with roasted green chilies, garlic, and shrimp paste, and is typically served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice. It’s a great snack or appetizer to enjoy with friends.

Mango Sticky Rice

For dessert, mango sticky rice is a must-try. This simple yet delicious dish consists of sweet coconut milk-infused sticky rice served with ripe mango slices. It’s a perfect way to end a meal.