A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Chiang Mai vs. Khao Lak for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Khao Lak?

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 Khao Lak. 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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a serene, laid back, and relaxed area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Chiang Mai and Khao Lak: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Khao Lak?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Khao Lak 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, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Khao Lak 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. Khao Lak is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe.

How is Chiang Mai different from Khao Lak?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Chiang Mai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Chiang Mai or Khao Lak Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Chiang Mai know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Khao Lak has a few options to choose from. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

Is Chiang Mai or Khao Lak Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a great area for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Khao Lak Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a great area for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Khao Lak Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Khao Lak offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Khao Lak Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Khao Lak does not have a historic old town.

Chiang Mai is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Khao Lak does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Khao Lak Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Around Chiang Mai visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Khao Lak?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Chiang Mai or Khao Lak Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Khao Lak are very good family-friendly destinations.

Chiang Mai is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Khao Lak is a very kid-friendly city. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Is Chiang Mai or Khao Lak Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Khao Lak is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Chiang Mai is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Chiang Mai or Khao Lak Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

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

Chiang Mai and Khao Lak 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.

Khao Lak has a few public transit options. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Is Chiang Mai or Khao Lak a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of 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.

Khao Lak is generally not a very walkable city. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Khao Lak or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Khao Lak?

Both Chiang Mai and Khao Lak have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Chiang Mai has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Chiang Mai than Khao Lak. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 5-7 days is enough time in Khao Lak.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak?

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.

With shopping and nightlife around the laid back area of Khao Lak, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Khao Lak?

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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Khao Lak, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Khao Lak?

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.

Khao Lak, a popular area, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this area. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Khao Lak?

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.

Khao Lak is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this area makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer. 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 3-Day Tours from Bangkok, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Chiang Mai.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Khao Lak, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Mai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Khao Lak would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Khao Lak?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 590 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Khao Lak, 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 Khao Lak?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Khao Lak in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Khao Lak. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year.

June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in July than Khao Lak. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Khao Lak. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Khao Lak receives 206 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Khao Lak in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Khao Lak fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Khao Lak in the Autumn?

Both Khao Lak and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February. The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Khao Lak. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Khao Lak during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Khao Lak receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Khao Lak averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Khao Lak in the Winter?

Both Khao Lak and Chiang Mai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round.

November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Khao Lak. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Khao Lak. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Khao Lak receives 287 hours of full sun.

In January, Chiang Mai is generally cooler than Khao Lak. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Khao Lak fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Khao Lak in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Khao Lak. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Khao Lak. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Khao Lak during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Khao Lak receives 249 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Khao Lak in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Khao Lak fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

Typical Weather for Khao Lak and Chiang Mai