Is Chiang Mai Safe?

Chiang Mai sits at the foothills of northern Thailand, a laid-back cultural capital wrapped in mountains and ringed by a 700-year-old moat. Inside the old city walls lie more than 30 temples; outside, a thriving scene of cafés, craft markets, cooking schools and digital-nomad co-working spaces has grown up alongside the traditional Lanna culture. It's far cooler, greener and gentler than Bangkok. Days are for temple-hopping, exploring the mountain temple of Doi Suthep and visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries; evenings belong to the Sunday Walking Street and the sprawling Night Bazaar. Khao soi — a creamy northern curry noodle — is the dish you must not leave without trying. The best months are November to February, when the air is cool and dry. Avoid the burning season (roughly mid-February to April), when farmers clear fields and air quality can become hazardous. The green, rainy season (June–October) is lush and quiet, with afternoon showers.