Lovingly known as Thailand’s “second city”, Chiang Mai is a place where contemporary culture meets ancient tradition; a low-rise, wide-spanning metropolis full of medieval architecture, hip live music venues and a deeply Buddhist population. Founded in 1296, the city sits between mountains, jungle, river and rice fields, so it is in close proximity to nature on all sides – with views of the mountains framing most west-facing streets. The medieval moat and walls mark out the perfectly squared old city, known for its exceptional food, beautiful temples and lovely inhabitants.
It’s a vibrant university town, plus a hub for yoga practitioners and remote workers, so the nightlife is vibrant and diverse; you’re just as likely to find yourself at an EDM festival as at a Tibetan sound bath.
