BalivsChiang Mai
Can't decide between Bali and Chiang Mai? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Bali
Bali is a tropical paradise of lush rice terraces, ancient temples, and world-class beaches. The Island of the Gods offers spiritual retreats, vibrant nightlife, incredible surfing, and a unique Hindu culture that permeates every aspect of daily life.
Known for
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is Thailand's cultural capital, a laid-back city surrounded by misty mountains and ancient temples. This spiritual hub offers cooking classes, ethical elephant sanctuaries, vibrant night markets, and a thriving digital nomad community.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Bali offers Ubud Rice Terraces, Tanah Lot Temple, Uluwatu Temple
Chiang Mai offers Doi Suthep Temple, Old City Temples, Sunday Walking Street
Food & Dining
Bali is famous for its local dining scene
Chiang Mai is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Bali offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Chiang Mai offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
April to October
November to February
Weather
Summer: 30°C, Winter: 27°C
Summer: 35°C, Winter: 28°C
Top Attractions in Bali
- 1Ubud Rice Terraces
- 2Tanah Lot Temple
- 3Uluwatu Temple
- 4Seminyak Beach
- 5Sacred Monkey Forest
- 6Mount Batur Sunrise
Top Attractions in Chiang Mai
- 1Doi Suthep Temple
- 2Old City Temples
- 3Sunday Walking Street
- 4Thai Cooking Classes
- 5Elephant Sanctuaries
- 6Night Bazaar
Bali is Popular With
Chiang Mai is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Bali
- 1
Sidemen Valley
A serene, untouched valley of cascading rice terraces and traditional villages, far from the crowds of Ubud.
- 2
Tirta Gangga
A former royal water palace in East Bali, featuring ornate pools, fountains, and stepping stones amidst lush gardens.
Hidden Gems in Chiang Mai
- 1
Wat Umong (The Tunnel Temple)
A unique, forested temple complex on the city's outskirts, featuring ancient brick tunnels built into a hillside, a large stupa, and a serene meditation center.
- 2
Baan Kang Wat Artist Village
A charming, purpose-built community of traditional Thai houses housing local artists, craftspeople, and small cafes, located near Wat Umong.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Bali
Ubud
The cultural and spiritual heart of Bali, nestled among lush rice paddies and rainforests.
Seminyak
An upscale, cosmopolitan area known for its designer boutiques, chic beach clubs, sophisticated dining, and beautiful sunset beaches.
Top Areas in Chiang Mai
Old City (Within the Moat)
The historic and spiritual heart of Chiang Mai, defined by its square layout and crumbling brick walls.
Nimmanhaemin (Nimman)
The trendy, modern university district known for its hipster cafes, boutique shops, stylish co-working spaces, and vibrant nightlife.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Bali
Budget in Chiang Mai
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Bali
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Book Activities in Chiang Mai
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Bali
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Find cheap transport to Chiang Mai
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Our Verdict
Both Bali and Chiang Mai are incredible destinations. Bali excels in temples and beaches, while Chiang Mai stands out for temples and cooking classes.
Best destination for:
beaches
Bali
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