Winter School - Chiang Mai Edition 2024

On this page, you will find information about Chiang Mai and travel options.

Flights

Accommodation

Practical infos

About Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, is a captivating city known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. It is the fifth largest city in Thailand. Surrounded by lush mountains and forests, Chiang Mai offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. The city is renowned for its ancient temples, including the iconic Wat Phra Singh and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which showcase exquisite architecture and religious significance.

Chiang Mai is famous for its bustling markets, where visitors can immerse themselves in local cuisine, handicrafts, and traditional art. The Night Bazaar and the Sunday Walking Street Market are popular spots to explore. The city also serves as a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures, from trekking in the nearby jungles to visiting hill tribe villages.

With a laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and a wealth of cultural experiences, Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Thai experience.

How to get to Chiang Mai ?

The most popular way to get to Chiang Mai is by flight from Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, which takes around one hour and fifteen minutes, with more than 50 flights each day between the two cities. Chiang Mai International Airport is the major gateway to Northern Thailand and is only 3 kilometers from central Chiang Mai.

By plane: there are two airports in Bangkok: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). Most flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai depart from Don Muang International Airport (DMK). The distance between the two airports is 29.5 miles (47.5 kilometers). You can move between the two airports by taxi or by shuttle bus (free option).
By train: most trains to Chiang Mai from Bangkok travel overnight, for an 11-hour trip. Departures are from Hua Lamphong train station located in central Bangkok.
By bus: buses to Chiang Mai take about 9 hours to 12 hours (depending on the hour of departure and companies' collection points). There are regular departures 24/7. This is usually the cheapest way to travel. Some companies offered to travel in VIP buses from Mo Chit Station in Bangkok.

There are two types of taxi available on arrival at the airport: Metered taxi and Airport Limousine Service. Both companies have fixed rates to travel to downtown Chiang Mai (150-250 THB depending on the taxi company).

Participants who have Grab applications can use it in Chiang Mai.

Visa Requirements

Some foreign nationals traveling to Thailand require a visa. We invite you to check whether you require a visa and how to apply under this link. In any case, we suggest you contact the Thai Embassy of your country as early as possible.

*Note that this information is given by IPPA for informational purposes only, being exempt from any responsibility in the VISA process. We kindly remind you that we will provide you with an attendance letter just after your registration payment.