Chiang Mai Old City

Chiang Mai was the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom between 1296-1768 and today, is capital of the Chiang Mai Province in northern-Thailand.

The Chiang Mai Old City is classified as the area contained within the ruined city walls, now surrounded by a square moat that surrounds a 2. 2sqkm area. Each city wall has a ‘city gate’, the most famous being Tae Phae Gate which sits on the east wall.

Some of the most popular attractions within the Old City include the various temples located here. Wat Phra Singh ranks as one of the most revered temples in the northern parts of Thailand and is located in the heart of the old city in Chiang Mai. Another is Wat Chedi Luang, a historic Buddhist temple that was built from 1391 and then expanded again in 1475. These temples are located within only a few minutes walk of each other.

Those interested in learning about some of the history of Chiang Mai, should stop by the Three Kings Monument, a large statue located in front of the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre in the old city of Chiang Mai. The three Kings that are represented are King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Mai; King Ramkamhaeng of Sukothai; and King Ngam Muang of Payao. Head inside the Cultural Centre behind the statue for some more information on the history of Chiang Mai.

The Chiang Mai Sunday Market (also known as the Sunday Walking Street Market) is located right near the Three Kings Monument and Chiang Mai’s largest and most poplar market. It runs every Sunday from 4pm until midnight and spans a length of 1km from Tha Phae Gate to the end of Ratchadamnoen Road, as well as numerous off shoots up the many side streets.

You can get a 1 hour massage from most places in the Old City for between 150 – 200 THB and can catch a red truck (songthaew) to any location inside the city walls for only 20 THB. You can find dinner in the old city for as little as 40 THB per serve, or can splash out on a five-star dinner at any of the up-market restaurants.

There are too many hotels, hostels, apartments and guest houses to mention inside the old city, but you can find a cheap room in a guest house for between 400-1000 THB per night. If you are interested in browsing the range of accommodation options in the Old City, click the links below.