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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Lombok?

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 Lombok. 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 friendly, cultural, and welcoming city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of Chiang Mai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Lombok

Lombok is a cultural, stunning, and peaceful island. Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Lombok travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Lombok: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Lombok?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Lombok are popular destinations, Chiang Mai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Lombok attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Lombok and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Lombok is famous for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture.

How is Chiang Mai different from Lombok?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chiang Mai are world-renowned. 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 for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lombok. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and 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.

Dining out in Lombok is an experience not to be missed. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Is Chiang Mai or Lombok Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Chiang Mai for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lombok. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

Is Chiang Mai or Lombok Better for Resorts?

Lombok is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Lombok to choose from. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Lombok Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Lombok. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Lombok Better for Beaches?

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

Lombok offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Lombok Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is great for its old town. However, Lombok 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.

Lombok does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Lombok Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for hiking. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Lombok is a popular spot for hiking. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Lombok?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Chiang Mai draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lombok. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Is Chiang Mai or Lombok More Beautiful?

Lombok is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

The beauty of Chiang Mai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is famous for it's beautiful surrounding countryside where visitors often enjoy trekking and getting out in nature. The city is also filled with historic temples, night markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is Chiang Mai or Lombok Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Lombok are excellent 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.

Lombok is a very kid-friendly city. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Is Chiang Mai or Lombok Better for Couples?

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

Lombok is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

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 Lombok Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Chiang Mai and Lombok are terrific places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Chiang Mai. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lombok. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

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

Chiang Mai is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Is Chiang Mai or Lombok a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Chiang Mai is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Lombok is generally not very walkable. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

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

Should I spend more time in Lombok or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Lombok?

Chiang Mai and Lombok both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lombok than Chiang Mai because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 10-14 days is enough time in Lombok.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Lombok. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Lombok. 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 Lombok 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 Lombok?

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the laid back island of Lombok, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Lombok?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Lombok, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Lombok?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lombok, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, five days is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Lombok?

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Lombok is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. 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 Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia.

When comparing the travel costs between Chiang Mai and Lombok, we can see that Chiang Mai is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Lombok Expensive?.

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

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Lombok in the Summer?

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

The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September. The dry season in Lombok is May to September. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Lombok. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Lombok. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Lombok averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Lombok in the Autumn?

Both Lombok and Chiang Mai during the autumn 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 Lombok year-round.

November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai. November to April is the rainy season in Lombok. Lombok 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 October than Lombok. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally around the same temperature as Lombok. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Lombok in the Winter?

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

November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season. In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Lombok. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Lombok during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Lombok receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chiang Mai is cooler than Lombok in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Lombok in the Spring?

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

June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season. Also, May to September in Lombok is the dry season. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Lombok. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Lombok. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Lombok averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Typical Weather for Lombok and Chiang Mai