צ'יאנג דאו

The cool season from about November to February brings clear views and fresh mornings. The rainy season is green but misty, and trails can be slippery.

• Tham Chiang Dao is a long cave with chambers, shrines and guided lantern tours.
• Big Buddha is a large Buddha statue on a hillside.
• Giant Trees Alley is a tree-lined road with big old trees.
• Sri Sangwan Waterfall is a waterfall in the northern part of the district.
• Pong Ang Hot Spring is a hot spring area.

• Cave tour: Explore with a local guide.
• Hiking: Trails climb into the hills.
• Hot springs: Soak after a hike.
• Countryside stay: Relax in a quiet guesthouse.

• Chiang Mai: the city is reached by road in about an hour or so.
• Mountain viewpoints: several lookouts around the district.

• Chiang Mai is the usual base.
• Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand.
• Mae Rim lies between Chiang Mai and Chiang Dao.

• By bus or songthaew: Services run from Chiang Mai.
• By car or scooter: The road north is straightforward.

• Own transport: Best way to reach caves and viewpoints.
• Local trucks: Limited services.

• Is a car worth it?: Useful for flexibility.
• Driving side: Traffic drives on the left.
• Roads: Mountain roads have curves.

Northern Thai dishes, grilled meats and noodle shops are common, and cafés in the countryside serve coffee and tea.

• Caves: Use a guide and stay on marked paths.
• Hiking: Bring water and sturdy shoes.
• Medical care: Chiang Mai has full facilities.
• Royal family: Do not speak or write badly about the monarchy. It is a serious crime in Thailand.

Chiang Dao has long been a rural area, with temples near the cave and villages in the valleys.

Quick practical facts for Thailand at a glance: