Chiang Mai is the largest city in northern Thailand and the capital of Chiang Mai Province. It is 700 km north of Bangkok in a mountainous region. The city’s location on the Ping River (a major tributary of the Chao Phraya River) and its proximity to major trading routes contributed to its historical importance.
Warnings & Dangers in Chiang Mai
OVERALL RISK : LOW
Chiang Mai is considered one of the safest cities in the region. The crime rate is low here. You should beware of the outskirts of the city and watch your belongings, especially during the holidays.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
In this city, you should be very careful if you are traveling in your car or motorbike. There is heavy traffic, and drivers rarely observe traffic rules. If you are using a taxi, make sure the driver turns on the taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Like any major city in Chiang Mai, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings, and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
There is a possibility of flooding in Chang Mei during the rainy season. Check the weather conditions before your trip here.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
The risk of serious robbery and armed attacks is very low in Chiang Mai. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is very small.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Chiang Mai.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATM at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Chiang Mai. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings. You should also wear modest clothing and avoid drawing attention to yourself with loud behavior.
How Safe Is Chiang Mai for Tourists?
Chiang Mai is a very safe travel destination.
There are practically no serious crimes occurring here.
The crime index is at a shallow level.
It is important, however, to exercise extreme caution in all poorly lit or more remote locations.
Do not carry valuables in your bag after dark, as one of the most common tourist crimes here is the theft of bags by men on motorcycles.
Watch out for your bag and backpacks, especially if you are walking on a dark street at night.
Dress modestly, especially if you are a woman – cover your knees and shoulders.
This will prevent you from attracting too much attention to yourself.
One type of fraud here is gem fraud, where you are persuaded to buy near worthless gemstones at a price that is much higher than their real value; and the tuk-tuk scam, where a calm tuk-tuk driver informs you that the attraction you want to see is closed and instead offers you a sightseeing tour for 20 baht (or some equally unrealistic number).
Otherwise, behave as usual, like in your own country.
Respect the local culture and don’t get too drunk.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Chiang Mai?
Visitors to Thailand must obtain a visa from one of the Thai diplomatic missions unless they come from a visa-exempt country or a country whose citizens can obtain visas on arrival.
Which Currency Is Used in Chiang Mai?
The baht is the official currency of Thailand. It is divided into 100 satangs.
How's the Weather like in Chiang Mai?
In Chiang Mai, the wet season is oppressive and overcast, the dry season is mostly clear, and it is hot year-round. The ideal time to visit Chiang Mai is between October and April.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai International Airport is an international airport serving Chiang Mai, the capital city of Chiang Mai Province in Thailand. It is a major gateway to Northern Thailand, and currently the fourth-busiest airport in the country.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai is a city in mountainous northern Thailand. Founded in 1296, it was the capital of the independent Lanna Kingdom until 1558. Its Old City area still retains vestiges of walls and moats from its history as a cultural and religious center. It’s also home to hundreds of elaborate Buddhist temples, including 14th-century Wat Phra Singh and 15th-century Wat Chedi Luang, adorned with carved serpents.
Is the Water in Chiang Mai Safe to Drink?
Tap water is not drinkable in this place. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Chiang Mai?
There is no Uber taxi in Chiang Mai. You can use any other local taxi services.
