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Guide to Chiang Dao, Thailand
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items After living in Chiang Mai for the last few years, I can say with confidence that Chiang Dao is the next best town to visit in Northern Thailand. It is authentic northern Thailand. Chiang Dao has natural beauty, plus that sprinkle of Thai culture tha...
Map
Sections
5
How to get there
What to do
Where to stay
Where to eat
Specialized guides
How to get there
if you don't want to drive a motorbike you can easily rent a driver to take you to Chiang Dao from Chiang Mai
THE TOP 10 Private Drivers - Hire a driver in Chiang Mai
a great place to rent a motorbike in chiang mai, fair prices, nice owners, realiable
Mango Bikes Rental
What to do
The great thing about Chiang Dao is that you can choose how much (or how little) you wish to do! Sabai Sabai (relax, it’s all chill) is the main energy of this village.
Drive to the Doi Lhung Chiang Dao Viewpoint (through the National Park – there will be an entrance fee to be paid in cash). The roads leading up to the magnificent viewpoint are SO MUCH FUN to drive on. Winding, with awesome views. It will take aroun...
Doi Luang Chiang Dao Viewpoint
Explore the Chiang Dao Hot Springs. It’s free, and its really fun and relaxing. You’ll most likely see locals here, and it’s in a really beautiful forest. You can feel the spiritual energy here, it’s quite special.
Chiang Dao Hot Springs
cool cave temple complex
Wat Tham Chiang Dao
If you’re in northern Thailand around the month of February, consider coming to Chiang Dao for the Shambhala In Your Heart festival. I went this past year in 2023 and it was the hippiest thing I’ve ever done, but also one of the coolest! People gathe...
Shambhala in your heart
one of my fav coffee shops in the mountains. relaxing, vibey, yummy! could stay here for hours
Pronto Coffee
a coffee shop on a farmstead in the mountains. delicious food and coffee.
Hippocampus
Where to stay
I’d say 2-4 days in Chiang Dao is enough time to immerse yourself in the peace and tranquility of the village. You’ll feel rejuvenated, both body and mind, after living a slow life for a few days.
It’s situated in the rice fields, with lush greenery and a magnificent view of the mountains at your fingertips. There’s good AC, hot water, and sounds of spring water trickling right outside your room. Plus, there’s a good coffee shop on the grounds...
Villa De View
If you’ve ever wanted to stay in a bubble glamping tent in the middle of rice paddies and mountain views, this is your chance! It’s around $90 / night.
Lhong Chiang Dao glamping (หลงเชียงดาว แกล้มปิง)
A budget friendly option in Chiang Dao. Clean, safe, and really all you need for a simple stay!
Huan Chiang Dao Resort
Where to eat
There's hidden gem restaurants in this small village. From Thai to western food, all the food is locally sourced and farm-to-table.
The best Thai food in Chiang Dao! The curries are unbeatable
Chiang Dao Nest 1 and 2 - resorts and restaurants
Jin’s was the best, most unexpected dining experience in Chiang Dao! She is Thai and her and her husband make delicious Italian food. They seat you in their backyard in a beautiful garden with fairy lights and plants surrounding you. It’s a lovely ex...
Jin's
Chai Cafe is a great little Thai breakfast spot. I think I’ve been here at least over 5 times because it’s reliable and yummy!
Chai cafe
Microkosmos Craft Beer & Burger Bar is a cool spot for a break in Thai food. They have really good craft beer and burgers, and I really like the vibes here.
Microkosmos Craft Beer & Burger Bar
Specialized guides
Check out my blogs on Chiang Dao for more specialized info!
5 Greatest Things to Do in Chiang Dao, Thailand - Gracies Guide
Check out my blog on Chiang Dao for more info!
Gracie's Guide to Chiang Dao: A Hidden Gem in the North of Thailand! (2025) - Gracies Guide
Get out in nature in Thailand & explore the beautiful mountains and waterfalls
7+ Beautiful Waterfall Hikes in Chiang Mai, Thailand - Gracies Guide