A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Katoomba for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Chiang Mai and Katoomba. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a laid-back, friendly, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Katoomba

Katoomba is a natural, relaxing, and breathtaking town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Chiang Mai and Katoomba: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Katoomba are both popular with visitors, Chiang Mai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chiang Mai is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Katoomba is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Katoomba and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also home to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Katoomba is popular for its natural scenery, beautiful hikes, and its location in the Blue Mountains.

How is Chiang Mai different from Katoomba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Katoomba and Chiang Mai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Chiang Mai that are not to be missed. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many beautiful temples in the area. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple that is an iconic landmark in the city. Other famous sights include Doi Inthanon and Wat Chedi Luang.

Katoomba offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. For many, the town is used as a base for exploring the Blue Mountains. Scenic World is a great way to take in the highlights. It's also fun to check out the local street art.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Mai or Katoomba? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Chiang Mai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

Katoomba has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many of the restaurants work hard to support local farmers and suppliers. You'll find local ingredients and homemade meals. The restaurant scene is growing, but many restaurants are still affiliated with hotels and tourist attractions.

Is Chiang Mai or Katoomba Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife and partying.

Chiang Mai offers plenty to do in the evening. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand, so it has the most active nightlife scene in the area. Whatever your style, you can find something to do at night here. Many people head to the riverside to drink and listen to music. You'll also find clubs concentrated around Nimmanhaemin Road and Loy Kroh Road. There's also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which is packed with stalls and people sampling food and drinks.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Katoomba. It's not known for its nightlife scene, but there are some relaxed places where you can enjoy craft beer or see a show. Katoomba is the hub of nightlife in the Blue Mountains.

Is Chiang Mai or Katoomba Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Katoomba does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Chiang Mai. The old city is about 1.5 square kilometers in size and it has four gates, one on each side. The most famous area is Sunday Walking Street, which comes to life at 4pm every day when it is lined with stalls and filled with people.

Katoomba does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Katoomba Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Chiang Mai and Katoomba, and they are terrific.

Chiang Mai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Many people use this city as a base for a trekking excursion into the surrounding countryside. The land is lush and beautiful and many treks also expose you to the welcoming Hilltribe people of Northern Thailand. Treks can be organized at almost any hotel or hostel as well the many tour agencies around town.

People visit Katoomba specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, this town offers access to some of the area's best hikes. You'll see waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and lush landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Chiang Mai is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous for its night markets, which run every night of the year until around midnight. You'll find the streets packed with people and vendors, rain or shine. This is a great place to search for local handicrafts and try some of the city's famous street food. Popular items to buy include rice boxes, silk, and Thai sky lanterns.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Katoomba. There are local markets and boutiques where you can pick up local items and handicrafts.

Is Chiang Mai or Katoomba Better for Families?

Katoomba is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Katoomba is very family-friendly. The surrounding Blue Mountains are filled with activities for the whole family. Scenic World is a highlight with its cable cars and skyway. There are also gardens, hiking trails, and cultural centers. Kids who love trains will enjoy Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum.

Chiang Mai is a very kid-friendly city. This city is very friendly and welcoming to kids. There are many cultural and adventurous activities that the whole family can enjoy. One of the most popular kid-friendly places to visit is the Elephant Sanctuary, where kids can get up close and personal with these beautiful animals. Kids will also enjoy heading into the countryside to trek or visit one of Thailand’s Hilltribes. The cultural experience and opportunity to meet a diversity of kids will be an experience your children will never forget. In town, a cooking class is a popular option for budding foodies.

Is Chiang Mai or Katoomba Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Katoomba both excellent destinations for a couple.

Chiang Mai is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Trekking, rafting, temples, and some of the best food in Thailand all make this city a popular destination for a couple's getaway. The region is perfect for adventurous couples who want to experience more of the authentic side of Thailand.

Katoomba is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are world class gardens like the Everglades Gardens, restaurants where you can enjoy high tea with a view, as well as hikes that will take your breath away. For the truly adventurous, there are also helicopter tours.

Is Chiang Mai or Katoomba Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chiang Mai is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the biggest backpacker mecca's in Southeast Asia, and you'll find the city flooded with budget travelers out to experience it all. There are countless hostels and budget hotels available and most will organize treks and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and many visitors end up staying longer than they planned. Prices in Northern Thailand are also much more affordable than many other areas.

Many backpackers visit Katoomba. There are hostels in the area, as well as camping opportunities. Backpackers will appreciate the scenic beauty and natural setting.

Is Chiang Mai or Katoomba Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chiang Mai and Katoomba both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Chiang Mai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Katoomba has a few public transit options. There are public buses through the Blue Mountains but it's easier to explore in depth if you have your own car.

Is Chiang Mai or Katoomba a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Katoomba are good when it comes to walkability.

Chiang Mai is somewhat walkable. Although there are a few walking streets, the city can get very crowded and many places are easier to access with a tuk tuk or taxi.

Katoomba is a somewhat walkable place. The town itself is relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? and Is Katoomba Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Katoomba or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

It's fun to spend time in either Chiang Mai or Katoomba. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Katoomba.

Families should spend more time in Katoomba than Chiang Mai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Katoomba, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Katoomba. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chiang Mai that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Katoomba if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Chiang Mai.

One day in Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Katoomba might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

Chiang Mai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Even though Katoomba is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Katoomba, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Katoomba is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Katoomba, we can see that Katoomba is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Mai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Chiang Mai is in Asia and Katoomba is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Chiang Mai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chiang Mai and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Katoomba would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Katoomba than you might in Chiang Mai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chiang Mai Expensive? and Is Katoomba Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Katoomba. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Katoomba, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai or Katoomba?

Katoomba has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Chiang Mai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Katoomba in the Summer?

Both Katoomba and Chiang Mai during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Katoomba this time of year.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Katoomba in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Katoomba fluctuates around 24°C (74°F)in January.

In Katoomba, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Katoombain January. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Katoomba receives 236 hours of full sun.

Katoomba gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Katoombain January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Katoomba in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Katoomba. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Katoomba for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Katoomba. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Katoomba averages at about 18°C (65°F)in April.

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Katoomba during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Katoomba receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Katoombain April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Katoomba in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Katoomba. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Katoomba in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Katoombain July. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Katoomba fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Katoomba. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Katoombain July. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Katoomba receives 208 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Katoombain July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Katoomba in the Spring?

Both Katoomba and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Katoomba for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Katoomba in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Katoomba fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Katoomba. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Katoomba during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Katoomba receives 240 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Katoombain October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Typical Weather for Katoomba and Chiang Mai