Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai

November to February

Months to avoid: March to April (burning season, hazardous air quality, city covered in haze)

Recommended stay: 4-6 days

Plan Chiang Mai for November to February. Give it 4-6 days. The window to avoid is March to April (burning season, hazardous air quality, city covered in haze).

What the season gets you

• Khao soi, sai ua, and northern Thai food you won't find anywhere else, and it costs $2 a plate
• Sunday Walking Street market stretches for a kilometre through the old city, food, crafts, live music
• Doi Suthep temple at sunset is the closest thing to a spiritual moment most travellers will have in Thailand