📝 1. Overview
Chiang Mai’s Old City is a serene square of history and culture, surrounded by crumbling walls and a peaceful moat. Within its ancient layout lies a treasure trove of golden temples, slow-lane cafés, local art, and monk-led rituals. Whether you’re cycling along quiet lanes or sipping coconut lattes in a leafy courtyard, the Old City is a beautiful blend of tradition and tranquility.
🌟 2. Highlights
🛕 Wat Phra Singh: Iconic temple with Lanna-style architecture
⛩️ Wat Chedi Luang: Massive historic stupa and monk chats
🚲 Biking the Old City: Flat roads, temple hopping, peaceful vibes
🎨 Sunday Night Market: Handmade goods, snacks, and street music
🍛 Northern Thai Cuisine: Khao Soi, Sai Oua, and more
🌅 Rooftop cafes & morning alms-giving experience
🗺️ 3. Zones in Chiang Mai Old City
| Zone | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| East Gate (Tha Phae) | Markets, hostels, tourist info centers |
| West Gate (Suan Dok) | Wat Suan Dok, less touristy temples |
| North Gate (Chang Phuak) | Street food heaven, budget stays |
| South Gate | Wua Lai Walking Street, crafts & silver shops |
| Central Area | Wat Phra Singh, cafes, slow walks |
🎟️ 4. Tickets & Passes – Popular Attractions
| Attraction | Price (Adult) | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Wat Phra Singh | 50 THB | 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wat Chedi Luang | 50 THB | 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Lanna Folklife Museum | 90 THB | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mon) |
| Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center | 90 THB | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mon) |
🟤 Combo tickets available for museum lovers (Folklife + Cultural Center)
💡 5. Tips
🚲 Rent a bicycle or scooter for easy exploration
🛕 Dress modestly for temples (shoulders/knees covered)
🎨 Don’t miss Sunday Night Market on Ratchadamnoen Road
📷 Sunrise at temples = golden light & no crowds
🧘♀️ Try a meditation session at a temple (some offer English guides)
🍽️ 6. Must-Try Foods in Old City
🍜 Khao Soi – Creamy, spicy curry noodle soup (Chiang Mai’s signature)
🌭 Sai Oua – Northern-style herbal sausage, full of flavor
🍢 Moo Ping – Grilled pork skewers on every corner
🥗 Nam Prik Ong – Tangy tomato-chili dip with veggies
🍧 Coconut Ice Cream – Found at walking streets and markets
🏨 7. Recommended Hotels (Top 3 Picks)
🏨 Tamarind Village Chiang Mai
→ Boutique Lanna-style resort with tranquil gardens in central Old City.
🌇 The Inside House
→ Elegant, photogenic, with private pools and mountain views.
🛏️ BED Chiang Mai Gate Hotel
→ Modern, minimalist, excellent service, walkable to night markets.
🚗 8. Access
📍 From Major Airports
Chiang Mai Intl Airport (CNX) → Old City: ~10–15 min by taxi (~150 THB)
📍 Getting Around
🚲 Bicycles and scooters are perfect for short distances
🚖 Songthaews (red trucks) = shared taxis, super cheap
🚶 The Old City is very walkable—take your time!
🌐 9. Contact / Info
🔗 Tourism Authority of Thailand – Chiang Mai
📞 Local Info Line: +66 53 248 604
📍 Info Center: Tha Phae Gate & Chiang Mai City Arts Center
