Traveling from the Philippines to Chiang Mai
To travel from the Philippines to Chiang Mai, Thailand, you can follow these general steps:
Book a Flight:
Look for flights from major airports in the Philippines, such as Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila or Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) in Cebu, to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
There might not be direct flights available, so you may need to book a connecting flight through a major hub such as Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport – BKK or Don Mueang Airport – DMK).
Connecting Flight via Bangkok:
If you have a connecting flight, you will first fly to Bangkok. From Bangkok, you can take a domestic flight to Chiang Mai. Several airlines operate frequent flights between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Arrival in Chiang Mai:
Upon arrival at Chiang Mai International Airport, you can take a taxi or use other transportation services to reach your accommodation or destination in Chiang Mai city.
Visa Requirements:
Check the visa requirements for entering Thailand from the Philippines. Philippine passport holders generally do not need a visa for short stays in Thailand for tourism purposes, but it’s always best to verify current regulations.
COVID-19 Regulations:
Ensure you are aware of any current COVID-19 regulations, such as vaccination requirements, testing, or quarantine measures, which may be in place for international travelers.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a smooth journey from the Philippines to Chiang Mai. Safe travels!

Travel Recommendations in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai offers a variety of halal restaurants that cater to Muslim travelers. Here are some recommended places:

  1. CHOM Cafe & Restaurant:
    • A cozy cafe and restaurant offering a diverse menu and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for enjoying halal food.
  2. Khao Soi Islam:
    • Famous for its delicious and authentic halal Khao Soi, a traditional northern Thai noodle dish with a rich and flavorful curry broth.
  3. Sapha Coffee 786:
    • A laid-back coffee shop offering a variety of halal dishes and a great place to relax and unwind.
  4. Roti Pa Da:
    • Known for its tasty and affordable roti and other halal snacks, this place is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
  5. Khao Man Gai Post Office (Nazmin) 1:
    • Popular for its halal Hainanese chicken rice, this restaurant is a hit among Muslim tourists looking for a delicious and hearty meal.
  6. Khao Soi Pa Phae:
    • Another great spot for halal Khao Soi, offering a delightful and authentic taste of this northern Thai specialty.
  7. Paka Silom:
    • A restaurant that serves a variety of creative and delicious halal dishes, crafted by professional chefs.
  8. Takawa Halal Cuisine:
    • Offering a wide range of halal dishes, including Thai, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisine, this restaurant is perfect for those looking for variety.
  9. Sangah Cherng Doi Khao Mok Gai Halal:
    • Known for its flavorful and authentic halal chicken biryani, this restaurant is a must-visit for those wanting to experience true biryani taste.
  10. Yaring Cuisine Halal Restaurant Chiangmai:
    • This restaurant offers a diverse menu of halal dishes, including both Thai and international cuisine, in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Mosques:
    • Chiang Mai Central Mosque (Masjid Ban Haw): Located near the Night Bazaar, this is the main mosque in Chiang Mai and serves as a community center for local Muslims.
    • Masjid Dawahtul Islam: Another mosque in Chiang Mai, providing prayer facilities and community services.
  • Cultural and Historical Sites:
    • Chiang Mai Old City: Explore the historical part of Chiang Mai, including ancient temples, walls, and gates.
    • Doi Suthep Temple: While not a Muslim site, it’s one of Chiang Mai’s most famous landmarks and offers breathtaking views of the city. Remember to dress modestly when visiting.
  • Shopping:
    • Night Bazaar: A bustling market where you can find a variety of goods, including handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. Some stalls may offer halal food.
    • Warorot Market: A traditional market where you can experience local culture and shop for various items, including clothes, fresh produce, and snacks.
  • Nature and Adventure:
    • Elephant Nature Park: A sanctuary for rescued elephants where you can learn about and interact with these gentle giants in an ethical and responsible way.
    • Doi Inthanon National Park: Visit the highest mountain in Thailand and enjoy the beautiful scenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
  • Family-Friendly Activities:
    • Chiang Mai Zoo: A great place for families to spend a day exploring and learning about various animals.
    • Art in Paradise Chiang Mai: An interactive 3D art museum that’s fun for visitors of all ages.
  • Accommodation:
    • Look for hotels that cater to Muslim travelers, offering halal food and prayer facilities. Some recommended hotels include
    • The Empress Hotel Chiang Mai and Dusit Princess Chiang Mai.