Essential Chiang Mai places for expats
Curated directory of international schools, hospitals, shopping malls, coworking spaces, markets, temples, and universities — the places that matter when you're deciding where to live in Chiang Mai.
International Schools
Chiang Mai's international schools serve expat families across 8+ major institutions with British, American, IB, and holistic curricula.
Hospitals
Private and public hospitals in Chiang Mai, each with its address, its size and whether it runs an international department for foreign patients.
Clinics
Medical clinics in Chiang Mai for a check-up, a vaccination or a doctor's visit without going to a hospital, each with its address and website.
Shopping
Chiang Mai's major shopping malls, from Maya Lifestyle and One Nimman to Central Festival and Promenada.
Coworking
Chiang Mai's coworking scene powers its digital nomad ecosystem — 15+ spaces concentrated in Nimman and Santitham.
Fresh Markets
Traditional Thai markets and night bazaars essential to Chiang Mai life — from Warorot to the Sunday Walking Street.
Temples
Chiang Mai's 300+ temples include Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Umong, and the mountain-top Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Universities
Chiang Mai University (CMU) and Payap University anchor the city's higher education scene.
Dental Clinics
Expat-popular dental clinics offering implants, cosmetic, and general dentistry at a fraction of Western prices.
Cafés
Nomad-friendly cafés with WiFi, power outlets, and laptop-friendly seating — the backbone of Chiang Mai's remote-work scene.
Restaurants
Expat community anchor restaurants spanning Korean, Northern Thai, Western fine dining, and vegetarian cuisine.
Gyms
Chain and boutique gyms offering 24-hour access, group classes, and CrossFit boxes.
Yoga Studios
Yoga studios and wellness spaces across Nimman, the Old City, and Suthep.
Muay Thai Gyms
Muay Thai training camps and gyms for locals and travelers, from beginner-friendly to pro fighter camps.
Parks
City parks, botanical gardens, national parks, lakes, and waterfalls around Chiang Mai.
Golf Courses
Golf resorts and clubs around Chiang Mai — popular with retirees and investors.
Language Schools
Thai language schools, several offering Education (ED) visa support for long-stay expats.
Supermarkets
Foreigner-friendly grocery stores with imported goods, from Rimping to Tops, Big C, and Makro.
Airports
International and domestic airports serving Chiang Mai.
Bus Stations
Intercity and local bus terminals serving Chiang Mai province and beyond.
Train Stations
Railway stations served by the State Railway of Thailand.
Consulates
Full and honorary consulates serving foreign nationals in Chiang Mai.
Immigration Office
Thai immigration offices handling visa extensions and mandatory 90-day reporting.
Banks
Foreigner-friendly Thai banks for account opening, mortgages, and international transfers.
Community Groups
Expat clubs, nationality associations, chambers of commerce, and religious community hubs.