A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Tarutao vs. Chiang Mai for Food, Hiking, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai?

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 Koh Tarutao and Chiang Mai. 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.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a undiscovered, secluded, and remote island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a temple-filled, laid-back, and friendly city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Koh Tarutao and Chiang Mai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chiang Mai is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Chiang Mai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chiang Mai has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Chiang Mai has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

While Koh Tarutao is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Tarutao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Tarutao 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.

Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many people travel to Chiang Mai specifically to go shopping. 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.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chiang Mai. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Chiang Mai both excellent destinations for a couple.

Koh Tarutao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

Couples visit Chiang Mai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Chiang Mai, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

Is Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai 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, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Chiang Mai has some public transit options. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Chiang Mai is a somewhat walkable city. 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.

Koh Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Chiang Mai or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai?

Both Koh Tarutao and Chiang Mai have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than in Koh Tarutao. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 2-7 days is enough time in Chiang Mai.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai?

With around the undiscovered island of Koh Tarutao, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

Chiang Mai is a laid-back city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai?

With around the destination of Koh Tarutao, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Chiang Mai is a natural big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai?

Koh Tarutao, a popular island, 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.

Chiang Mai is a friendly city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai?

Koh Tarutao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

Chiang Mai is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, and The Best Nightlife Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Chiang Mai, we can see that Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao Expensive? and Is Chiang Mai Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai?

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 Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai in the Summer?

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

Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Chiang Mai. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Chiang Mai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Chiang Mai averages at about 30°C (86°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai in the Autumn?

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

Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Chiang Mai. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Chiang Mai. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai in the Winter?

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

The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February. In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Chiang Mai. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Chiang Mai in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Chiang Mai fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Chiang Mai in the Spring?

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

November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Chiang Mai. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Chiang Mai receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In the spring, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Chiang Mai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Chiang Mai averages at about 31°C (88°F).

Typical Weather for Chiang Mai and Koh Tarutao