Chiang Mai Named the Top City in Asia for 2025
Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of Thailand, has been crowned Asia's best city for 2025 by Travel + Leisure. This prestigious recognition highlights the city's rich blend of history, local cuisine, friendly atmosphere, and natural beauty.
The city's top attractions include the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched atop a mountain and offering breathtaking views of Chiang Mai city. Another must-visit is Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand's highest peak, which boasts lush landscapes, eco-friendly tours, waterfalls, and trekking opportunities.
Chiang Mai is also renowned for its dedication to conservation activities, with several ethical elephant sanctuaries where visitors can observe and feed rescued elephants in a sustainable, compassionate environment. For adrenaline seekers, the Grand Canyon Water Park offers fun-filled activities like giant sliders, kayaking, ziplining, and wakeboarding.
The city's Old City temples, such as Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Sri Suphan, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chiang Man, are cultural gems, each offering unique spiritual and architectural experiences. The Chiang Mai Night Safari, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, and Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre provide diverse experiences, from wildlife observation to relaxation and local crafts.
Bangkok, Thailand, came in third place with a score of 91.34, while Tokyo, Japan, secured second place with a score of 91.39. However, it was Chiang Mai that stole the spotlight with a score of 91.94, reflecting its status as a top Asian travel destination in 2025.
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Chiang Mai promises an unforgettable experience that combines historical temples, natural beauty, ethical wildlife encounters, and recreational activities. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Asia's best city for 2025!
- The prestigious recognition for Chiang Mai, Asia's best city for 2025, extends to its political landscape, making it an attractive destination for international visitors interested in both culture and politics.
- Beyond its renowned travel spots, Chiang Mai's rich culture and lifestyle are showcased through several local handicraft centers like Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre, offering unique souvenirs to take home.
- Not just attracting travelers, Chiang Mai also invites international tourism through eco-friendly tours offered in Doi Inthanon National Park, perfectly blending lifestyle and sustainable tourism.
- Aside from Thailand, other international cities such as Tokyo, Japan, have also made the list, but Chiang Mai stands out with its remarkable scores, showcasing the city's potential as a prominent worldwide lifestyle and travel destination.
