Food and local dishes

Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, is a true paradise for lovers of exquisite local cuisine. The city is renowned for its authentic traditional dishes that captivate the taste buds with rich and spicy flavors.

But here are five must-try dishes during your visit to this northern Thai city:

Khao Soi: This iconic dish from Chiang Mai is a delicious coconut milk-based noodle soup, topped with pieces of meat (usually chicken or beef), crispy fried noodles, and fried onions. Its rich and spicy flavors make it a must-try.

Som Tum: A spicy and refreshing green papaya salad, prepared with chili, tomatoes, long beans, garlic, peanuts, and lime. It's a blend of sour, spicy, and sweet flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Moo Ping: These grilled pork skewers are a highly popular street food option in Chiang Mai. The meat is marinated in a flavorful sauce before being grilled, creating a combination of tender and grilled flavors.

Gaeng Hang Lay: A curry from northern Thailand, influenced by Burmese cuisine, with meat (usually pork or beef) slow-cooked in a thick and fragrant sauce. The spices and herbs used add a unique depth of flavor.

Kao Niew Mamuang: For dessert, don't miss the sweet sticky rice served with slices of fresh mango. The marriage of soft and sweet sticky rice with the juicy sweetness of mango creates a perfect ending to a Thai meal.

Chiang Mai provides a delightfully diverse culinary experience, reflecting the richness of Thai culture and gastronomic traditions. Local markets stand out as treasures where one can gently explore the variety of local flavors.

Mobility

Mobility in Chiang Mai offers a variety of transportation options, reflecting the laid-back atmosphere of this charming city in northern Thailand.

Tuk-tuks, iconic motorized taxis, add a splash of color to the streets with their unique designs, providing a picturesque and often negotiable way to navigate quickly around the city.

Songthaews, brightly colored shared vans, are a popular choice for longer distances at fixed rates. Following predefined routes, they offer an affordable and local way to travel throughout Chiang Mai.

Taxis and moto-taxis provide a more private alternative. Taxis typically operate with meters, while moto-taxis, with their drivers sporting colorful vests, can be quicker for weaving through dense traffic.

The public transportation network in Chiang Mai includes buses, providing an additional option for those looking for more scheduled and budget-friendly travel within the city. However, it's important to note that the coverage and frequency of the bus system may not be as extensive as in larger urban centers.

However, renting motorcycles in Chiang Mai is a common yet discouraged option due to the dangers of the roads, especially for inexperienced riders. Despite its appeal, caution is advised. Chaotic traffic conditions, combined with the mountainous terrain, pose safety risks.