Tucked away in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai was once a hidden gem, known only to the more adventurous travellers willing to venture off the usual tourist trail.  While Bangkok and the islands grabbed the spotlight, Chiang Mai quietly built a reputation for its breath-taking landscapes, rich culture, and laid-back charm. Today, more people are discovering just how special this city is — yet it still holds onto its authentic heart and peaceful vibe, offering a perfect mix of history, adventure, and relaxation. Here are our reasons why you will fall in love with it it: Cool, Comfortable Weather Thanks to its mountain location and less hustle and bustle than Bangkok, Chiang Mai enjoys much cooler and more pleasant weather. From October to February, daytime temperatures hover around 25°C, and evenings can dip to a refreshing 10°C. Even in the hotter months, the evenings stay cooler than Bangkok. If you fancy escaping the city heat even more, check out Vespa Adventures’ Chiang Mai Countryside Adventure – it's the perfect rural getaway! Yi Peng Lantern Festival If you can plan your visit for November's full moon, you’re in for something truly magical. Chiang Mai lights up for the Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals, where thousands of glowing lanterns are released into the sky and floated on the rivers. It’s a breath taking sight and one of Thailand’s most unforgettable experiences. A City Rich in History and Culture Chiang Mai is over 700 years old and home to more than 300 temples! Highlights include the stunning Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a mountain overlooking the city. Exploring hidden temples, tasting traditional food, and wandering local neighbourhoods is a fantastic way to dive into the city's fascinating history. Meet Gentle Giants at Elephant Sanctuaries The mountains around Chiang Mai are home to some amazing ethical elephant sanctuaries, where you can spend time with rescued elephants. You’ll get the chance to feed them, walk alongside them, and learn about their stories – a heartwarming and unforgettable experience. Trekking to Hill Tribe Villages Love a good adventure? Set off on a trek to visit the hill tribes in northern Thailand. Hike through beautiful landscapes, meet the Karen, Akha, and Hmong communities, and learn about their traditional ways of life. Popular trekking spots include Mae Hong Son and Doi Inthanon. Incredible Traditional Food Chiang Mai’s food scene is unreal! From creamy khao soi curry noodles to spicy som tam (papaya salad) and grilled meats, the city is a food lover’s paradise. Hot Springs and Waterfalls Need some downtime? Head about an hour out of the city to San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. Relax in the natural hot pools, enjoy a picnic in the gardens, and let the world drift away. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a few busy days of exploring. Affordable Shopping and Nightlife Chiang Mai is a shopper’s dream, offering handmade goods, clothes, souvenirs, and more at bargain prices compared to Bangkok. The night markets are especially lively – head to the Gate Market for delicious street food and great shopping. Whether you’re chasing culture, craving adventure, or simply looking to relax and soak in beautiful surroundings, Chiang Mai has it all — without the crowds and chaos of Thailand’s bigger cities. From its rich history and vibrant festivals to its delicious food and unforgettable experiences, this city is the perfect place to truly connect with the heart of Thailand. Ready to discover the magic of Chiang Mai for yourself.. contact our experts to help you starting planning.