Tucked into misty northern mountains, Chiang Mai is Thailand's cultural heart — a walled old city of over 300 temples, ethical elephant sanctuaries, night bazaars, and the glittering lantern festivals that light up the sky.

A golden mountaintop chedi reached by a naga staircase, with sweeping views over the city below.

Meet rescued elephants in responsible, no-riding sanctuaries where you can feed and bathe these gentle giants.

Thousands of glowing lanterns released into the night sky — one of the most magical sights in all of Asia.