Travel tips · Chiang Mai · Thailand
Chiang Mai travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Nawit science, CC BY-SA 4.0
Quick answer
Chiang Mai was the capital of the Lanna kingdom for centuries before joining Siam, and it keeps its own dialect, cuisine, architecture and festivals. Buddhism shapes daily life: monks collect alms at dawn, temples host schools and community events, and festivals such as Yi Peng and Songkran are celebrated with particular enthusiasm.
Key facts
- Language
- Thai and Northern Thai (Kham Mueang)
- Currency
- THB
- Plugs
- Type A, B, C and O sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Do not drink tap water; use bottled water or the inexpensive refill machines…
- Emergency
- Police 191, ambulance 1669, Tourist Police 1155
Things to know
- Cover shoulders and knees and remove shoes at temples.
- Women should not touch monks or hand objects directly to them.
- Never point your feet at people or Buddha images, and do not touch anyone's head.
- Respect the monarchy; criticism of the royal family is a criminal offence in Thailand.
- Stand when the royal anthem is played before films in cinemas.
- Book Elephant Nature Park ahead: Visits must be booked in advance and sell out in high season.
- Book Thai cooking class ahead: Book a day or two ahead in high season; most schools collect you from your hotel.
- Eat at markets and noodle shops; a filling meal costs a fraction of tourist-restaurant prices.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected but appreciated. Round up the bill in restaurants, leave a small tip for massage therapists and guides, and note that upmarket restaurants may already add a 10% service charge.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Sawasdee krub / ka | Hello (men / women) |
| Khop khun krub / ka | Thank you (men / women) |
| Tao rai? | How much? |
| Mai phet | Not spicy |
| Mai pen rai | No problem / never mind |
| Sawasdee jao | Polite northern Thai greeting |
What to wear
Light, breathable clothing for the heat, with a layer for cool mornings from December to February and for Doi Inthanon, where temperatures can be near freezing at dawn. Carry a scarf or sarong for temples.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type A, B, C and O sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Do not drink tap water; use bottled water or the inexpensive refill machines found around the city.
- Emergency number
- Police 191, ambulance 1669, Tourist Police 1155
- Phone and internet
- Tourist SIMs from AIS, True and others are sold at the airport and convenience stores; 4G and 5G coverage is good, and cafés offer fast Wi-Fi.
- Time zone
- Asia/Bangkok
Scooter accidents are the biggest risk for visitors, especially on the steep mountain roads. From about February to April smoke can make air quality hazardous, so check readings and carry a proper mask. Dogs can be territorial on rural roads and trails.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Thailand's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Chiang Mai?
Tipping is not expected but appreciated. Round up the bill in restaurants, leave a small tip for massage therapists and guides, and note that upmarket restaurants may already add a 10% service charge.
+Can you drink the tap water in Chiang Mai?
Do not drink tap water; use bottled water or the inexpensive refill machines found around the city.
+What plugs are used in Chiang Mai?
Type A, B, C and O sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Chiang Mai?
Thai and Northern Thai (Kham Mueang).