Chiang Mai, sometimes written as "Chiengmai" or "Chiangmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, subdivided into four wards: Nakhon Ping, Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kawila. Located in over 700km northwest of Bangkok, it has in excess of 300 temples that make the old city centre visually striking. Its historic importance is derived from its close proximity to Ping River and major trading routes.

In recent years, Chiang Mai has become an increasingly modern city and has been attracting over 5 million visitors each year. Many visitors stay in Chiang Mai longer than planned due to the high quality and low price of accommodation, food and shopping. The city features cool nightlife, international feel and friendliness of people, and scatters remarkable bars, restaurants, book stores, and cafes, as well as distinctive stores of clothing, crafts and second-hand books. With the increasing cultural and spiritual experience – Thai languages, massage, cooking, yoga and Vipassana – Chiang Mai has become much more than just a quick stop in Thailand travel.

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is between July and March, when the weather is relatively pleasant, the air is clearest and the surrounding hills are green.