Home

Safety

Asia

Thailand

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is generally a safe city for solo female travelers. Thai people are usually amicable and courteous, making it a comfortable destination. Night markets are bustling with people, ensuring you're rarely alone. However, as with any travel, caution must be observed, especially during late-night adventures and exploring less crowded places. Also, be wary of scams and trust your instincts when dealing with strangers or unfamiliar situations. Always share your itinerary with someone you trust.

Chiang Mai is currently ranked #12 safest place for solo female travellers. Check the full ranking.

4.8 /5

Based on 10 travel experiences

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.

Safety at night:Safe

Chiang Mai is generally considered quite safe for solo female travelers, even at night. Most areas of the city are well-lit and populated, even in the later hours, making it safer to walk alone. However, like any city in the world, it has its less secure areas. As long as you stay in populated areas, use common sense, and are aware of your surroundings, you should feel quite safe. Note that it's always better to use reputable transportation services if you are venturing further or to unfamiliar locations at night.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Chiang Mai is generally reliable and safe. Options include songthaews (red trucks), tuk-tuks, and Grab taxi app. Local bus services are less common but also safe. Keep in mind that communication in English can sometimes be challenging and fares might vary due to lack of metered vehicles. It's important to agree on the fare before the ride. In general, solo female travelers can navigate the city safely, but as always, remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Street harassment:Low

Chiang Mai, is generally a safe and respectful city for solo female travelers. Thai people value non-confrontational interactions, and street harassment is not common. While occasional looks or comments might occur, especially in crowded areas like night markets, they are usually non-threatening and can be handled by maintaining awareness and showing confidence. However, like any other place, it's crucial to be cautious, respect local culture, and take basic safety measures.

Petty crimes:Low

Chiang Mai is considered a safe destination for solo female travelers. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or bag snatching occasionally occur, particularly in crowded tourist areas and night markets. However, by taking normal safety precautions like keeping a vigilant eye on personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night, the risk of becoming a victim of such crimes can be significantly minimized.

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Chiang Mai is not recommended to be consumed directly from the faucet as it may contain some pathogens or heavy metals. Although it may be chlorinated and some locals might drink it, for travelers, especially those from countries where tap water is safe to drink, it may cause stomach upsets or other health issues. To be safe, always opt for bottled water, or consider using water purification tablets or a water purifier bottle.

4.8 /5

Based on 10 experiences

Solo travel experience

It is definitely safe, and the vibe is really relaxed and comfortable. The food is good, loved the night markets and the local food there, and definitely loved the jazz bar in the evening its where people can come and sing and play musical instruments and it was lovely. I also did the vipassana course in Chiang mai, which was beautiful!

Posted: February 23, 2024

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Alyssa

United States

Solo travel experience

Chiang Mai is such a cool city. Between temples, yummy (& vegetarian friendly! food, elephant sanctuary tours, & nature hikes nearby, it’s the ideal city to visit! I felt very safe there and stayed at Stamps Backpackers - one of the best hostels that I’ve been to. Visiting the Elephant Sanctuary was truly special, as was a trip to the Sticky waterfalls. I only planned 3 nights here but ended up staying 6! It’s a great, affordable city that I highly recommend.

Posted: February 16, 2024

favorite_border 2

mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

I loved Chiang Mai. I participated in a cooking class and visited an elephant camp. It was absolutely safe, I was walking around the city center every day for coffee and exploration and I felt 100% safe.

Posted: February 8, 2024

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

Chiang Mai is full of lonely travelers. It is very, very safe and a wonderful city to explore. Fantastic shopping and many markets with food and products.

Posted: December 24, 2023

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

Safe, with the possibility of moving around on foot, beautiful temples, many one-day trips to the national park and surrounding areas. English is widely used, and trains and buses are easy to understand. There are historical areas to visit like Ayutthai and Sukhothai, south of which you can reach by train or bus.

Posted: December 18, 2023

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

No local experience found

Be the first to share your experience.

Before your visit to Chiang Mai, it's essential to check travel advisories for Thailand, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.

🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The United States Government advises exercising normal precautions in Thailand, though some areas may pose an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: July 24, 2023

🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises: Exercise a high degree of caution in Thailand due to ongoing political tensions and sporadic demonstrations in Bangkok and elsewhere in the country. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: April 16, 2024

🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Thailand overall, due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism. This includes areas such as Bangkok and Phuket. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: December 21, 2023

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 10 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.8/5

Food

4.7/5

Budget-friendly

4.5/5

Group travel experience

I recommend temple hopping in Chiang Mai - it's a very affordable activity, with free to minimal fees. Visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary is also a very fulfilling experience. For food, I highly recommend khao soi - it's very cheap if you buy it from night markets or small eateries, but you can also enjoy it in restaurants.

Posted: March 30, 2024Experienced: October, 2022

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Jemima-Joy

Hong Kong S.A.R.

Solo travel experience

Probably the most chill and organised city I’ve ever travelled too. Not to mention super cheap! People are friendly and accommodating and I’m already dying to go back! There’s tons of things to do. Totally can’t miss the night markets/bazaar where your shopping options are endless!

Posted: November 18, 2023

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5

favorite_border 9

mode_comment 1

Check all reviews from Chiang Mai

Meet local women in Chiang Mai who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.

Claire

About Me

Hiiii, I’m here in Chiang Mai for the next three weeks, just looking to meet some other ladies as the nights are a bit off putting traveling outside alone! Looking for silly minded people ^.^

mode_comment 0

Silje

About Me

Hello 👋🏼 my name is Silje, and I am a solotravler. Want to meet new people

mode_comment 0

Connect with upcoming visitors to Chiang Mai who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.

Eunice

About Me

I’m Eunice, always wanting to travel to new places whenever it is possible in terms of money and availability of time and friends. Now i have the flexibility to wfh for the whole year 2024 but im lacking of travel buddies whom can enjoy good local foods and willing to travel most of time because i like to walk.