Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Dao is an excellent place to visit. The main attraction is the network of caves which are quite extensive. However, there are many other reasons to visit Chiang Dao. The smiling faces and cooler weather make this area an ideal place to explore the region from.

Getting to Chiang Dao:

The prefered way to get to Chiang Dao is to drive yourself. It is understandable that some people may be hesitant to do so. There are other options. Buses run frequently from Chaing Mai to points northward on the Fang Road. You can jump on the bus and make the journey quite easily. Simply jump off when you get to Chiang Dao. It will help to tell them that is your main destination. Songthaews can be found in the main area of town to get you to your choice of accommodation.

Accommodation:

Mon and Kurt's - website

Without any doubt, Mon and Kurt are very hospitable hosts. This place is highly recommended. The food is great, and the company is even better. The restaurant is quite populaar with local expats and motorcycle explores. Mon is an excellent cook, so even if you don't stay here you should attempt to swing by for a taste of some really good food. Furthermore, they have a wide selection of some really nice beer available. The cuisine is both Thai and European. The coffee is freshly brewed and excellent as well. There is a wide selection of both local and imported beer available.

Room Rate: 170 baht + 50 baht for each additional person - Note: the room can hold at least four people and has internet.

Chiang Dao Nest - website

The Nest as it is often referred to is something of an institution in Chiang Dao. As such, you can expect to pay a little bit more for a bungalow here. Chiang Dao is an amazing area, so you can expect to enjoy your stay here. The bungalows are nice and spacious. There are two different locations by the names of Chiang Dao Nest 1 and Chiang Dao Nest 2. They have restaurant facilities featuring western food.

Rates: 500 - 800 baht without breakfast

Others - There are plenty of options around. If you have your own transportation, you should not have any problem finding a place to stay. Most places don't take reservations, but it really isn't a problem. Chiang Dao is still small enough to not get too many visitors. I would suggest contacting Mon and Kurt for a place to stay above all others. They are more than happy to keep a spacious room for you.

Getting Around:

You really need your own transportation to get around. The obvious choice is a motorbike. There are several places around town that you can rent a motorbike. The prices tend to be slightly higher than in Chaing Mai, so it might be worthwhile to drive yourself up here from Chiang Mai. A regular Honda Wave or something similar will run about 200 to 250 baht per day. For enthusiastic people, bikes are also around for rental. Because things are quite spread out here, it doesn't make a whole lot of sense for the average backpacker to rent a bicycle.

Things to Do:

Of course, this is just a small sample of what Chiang Dao has to offer. I have tried to highlight what are the most popular highlights. Either way, you should really strongly consider at least a couple of days in this small town. I am certain that you will not regret it.