The forested western slopes rising to Doi Suthep temple — the university, the zoo, forest temples and leafy resorts among the trees, cooler and greener than the valley floor. A peaceful, scenic base for nature-lovers, a short ride from the mountain temple and the trails; you'll commute in for the Old City, but wake to birdsong and hills.
A look around
What you’ll be living next to. Swipe through.
€50–120
typical per night in Thailand
The sensible middle
Typical prices for Chiang Mai — neither steal nor splurge.
Where it sits
The circle is Doi Suthep foothills and roughly a 10-minute walk around it.
How far is everything?
From the middle of this area to the city's headline sights — pick your own on the city page and these become your list.
- Khao soi & northern Thai food9 min taxi2.9 km
- Nimman cafés & design9 min taxi2.9 km
- The Old City temples15 min taxi5.1 km
- Sunday Walking Street17 min taxi5.8 km
- Warorot Market (Kad Luang)18 min taxi6.1 km
- The Night Bazaar19 min taxi6.4 km
- A Thai cooking class20 min taxi6.8 km
- A traditional Thai massage20 min taxi6.8 km
On your doorstep
What you’re living next to if you stay here.
- 1.Wat Phra That Doi Suthep — Chiang Mai's most sacred temple, perched on a mountain above the city — climb the 300-step naga staircase (or take the funicular) to a dazzling golden chedi ringed by shrines and bells, with a sweeping view over the valley below. Magical in the early morning mist or at sunset; the essential Chiang Mai pilgrimage, and a beautiful drive up through the forest.
- 5.An ethical elephant sanctuary — Chiang Mai is the place to meet elephants humanely — at a genuine sanctuary you feed, walk with and bathe rescued elephants that are never ridden or made to perform. A joyful, moving day in the jungle hills, and a chance to support real conservation; choose a reputable, no-riding ethical camp (there are several), and book ahead.
- 9.Wat Umong forest temple — A serene, atmospheric 700-year-old forest temple on the wooded lower slopes of Doi Suthep, unique for its ancient brick meditation tunnels, a lake full of fish and pigeons, and 'talking trees' hung with Buddhist proverbs. Cool, shaded and blissfully peaceful, with monks and few crowds; a lovely contrast to the golden city temples and a favourite spot to slow down.
When are you staying?
Booking.com & Airbnb open searched to Doi Suthep foothills; flights via Google Flights.