Chiang MaivsPokhara
Can't decide between Chiang Mai and Pokhara? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
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
Pokhara
Pokhara is Nepal's adventure capital, a laid-back lakeside town with stunning Annapurna views. The gateway to the Annapurna Circuit offers paragliding, boating on Phewa Lake, and a relaxed atmosphere for trekkers before and after Himalayan adventures.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Chiang Mai offers Doi Suthep Temple, Old City Temples, Sunday Walking Street
Pokhara offers Phewa Lake, Annapurna Views, Paragliding
Food & Dining
Chiang Mai is famous for its local dining scene
Pokhara is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Chiang Mai offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Pokhara offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
November to February
October to November, March to April
Weather
Summer: 35°C, Winter: 28°C
Summer: 28°C, Winter: 12°C
Top Attractions in Chiang Mai
- 1Doi Suthep Temple
- 2Old City Temples
- 3Sunday Walking Street
- 4Thai Cooking Classes
- 5Elephant Sanctuaries
- 6Night Bazaar
Top Attractions in Pokhara
- 1Phewa Lake
- 2Annapurna Views
- 3Paragliding
- 4World Peace Pagoda
- 5Sarangkot Sunrise
- 6Davis Falls
Chiang Mai is Popular With
Pokhara is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
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.
Hidden Gems in Pokhara
- 1
Matepani Gumba (Monastery)
A beautiful and active Buddhist monastery located on a hill east of the city, offering peace, stunning views, and insight into local Buddhist practice.
- 2
Pumdi Bhumdi Village
A traditional village on the western, less-developed side of Phewa Lake, accessible by a long walk or boat ride from Lakeside.
Neighborhoods to Explore
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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.
Top Areas in Pokhara
Lakeside (Baidaam)
The bustling tourist epicenter of Pokhara, stretching along the eastern shore of Phewa Lake.
Damside
Located just south of the main Lakeside strip, Damside offers a slightly quieter and more local atmosphere.
Budget Comparison
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Budget in Chiang Mai
Budget in Pokhara
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Chiang Mai
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Book Activities in Pokhara
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Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Chiang Mai
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Find cheap transport to Pokhara
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Our Verdict
Both Chiang Mai and Pokhara are incredible destinations. Chiang Mai excels in temples and cooking classes, while Pokhara stands out for Annapurna views and paragliding.
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