Chiang Mai News

Chiang Mai news, politics, business, culture, and tourism—stay updated with breaking stories, local events, and expat insights from Thailand’s northern hub. Get the latest from The Thaiger, your trusted Chiang Mai news source.

  • Chiang Mai: Fallen tree kills Chinese tourist, injures another | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai: Fallen tree kills Chinese tourist, injures another

    A tragic incident occurred yesterday at a zipline site in Doi Saket, Chiang Mai, where a fallen tree injured two Chinese tourists. The Erawan Emergency Response Center received the report at 2.50pm, prompting immediate action from rescuers. Upon arrival, emergency personnel found that a Chinese couple had been struck by a collapsing tree as they were crossing a rope bridge…

  • Thailand to increase forest ranger salaries and workforce | Thaiger

    Thailand to increase forest ranger salaries and workforce

    The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment plans to bolster its forest protection efforts by increasing the number of forest rangers, aiming to alleviate the current workload and enhance forest conservation across the nation. Ratchata Pisitbannakorn, assistant to Environment Minister Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, highlighted the ministry’s appreciation for the diligent work of rangers during a World Ranger Day event on Wednesday,…

  • Chiang Mai songthaew driver fined for aggressive road incident (video) | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai songthaew driver fined for aggressive road incident (video)

    A driver of a red songthaew in Chiang Mai faces two serious charges after reacting aggressively to a car horn by brandishing a wooden stick. He admitted to overreacting and apologised for tarnishing the songthaew’s image. The incident, which gained attention on social media, involved the driver stopping in the middle of the road to drop off a passenger, prompting…

  • Tourists found safe after getting lost in Chiang Mai forest | Thaiger

    Tourists found safe after getting lost in Chiang Mai forest

    Two tourists, a Russian man and a Chinese woman, were found safe but exhausted after getting lost in the forest on Doi Nang Meh in San Kamphaeng, Chiang Mai. The search and rescue operation involved local police and rescue teams. At 8.30pm yesterday, July 27, Poempool Chaisit, the head of the Village Headmen and Subdistrict Chiefs Club in On Tai…

  • TAT, TikTok, and Klook Thailand launch incredible travel contest | Thaiger

    TAT, TikTok, and Klook Thailand launch incredible travel contest

    The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has teamed up with TikTok Thailand and Klook Thailand to launch the Amazing Thailand Passion Ambassador initiative. Tourists and content creators are invited to share their unforgettable Thailand travel videos for a chance to win amazing prizes. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool stated that this initiative supports the policy of the Minister of Tourism and…

  • Boy sleeping in Chiang Mai laundrette sparks action (video) | Thaiger

    Boy sleeping in Chiang Mai laundrette sparks action (video)

    A young boy has drawn widespread attention after sleeping alone in a laundromat in the Chiang Mai province late at night. Concerned netizens expressed their desire to help the child, sparking a conversation about his welfare. Footage shared by TikTok user @suwatchareek captured the boy entering the laundromat around 3am and staying until 5am. “A little boy came to sleep…

  • Persistent Chiang Mai gang arrested for bird food scam on tourists | Thaiger

    Persistent Chiang Mai gang arrested for bird food scam on tourists

    Police have detained members of a scammer gang at Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai, who were scamming tourists by selling bird food and charging them for photos, deemed to be damaging the area’s reputation as a tourist destination. Today, July 19, officers from the Tourist Police Division 2, led by Makara Srisakulpisut and Nithipat Bunmak, conducted a thorough inspection of…

  • Chiang Mai earthquake causes tremors, no major damage | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai earthquake causes tremors, no major damage

    An earthquake measuring 3.3 on the Richter scale struck Mae Chaem, Chiang Mai, causing noticeable tremors but no reported injuries or significant damage to buildings. Local officials have been instructed to conduct thorough inspections of the area to assess potential impacts. A 3.3-magnitude earthquake occurred in the Mae Na Chon area of Mae Chaem district yesterday at 11.04pm, with a…

  • Chiang Mai residents scramble for lucky lottery numbers | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai residents scramble for lucky lottery numbers

    Chiang Mai is experiencing a frenzy over lucky lottery numbers, with tickets selling out rapidly across various districts. Key numbers tied to the royal family and significant Buddhist holidays are in high demand, despite the consistently high prices. Residents have flocked to early morning markets in Chiang Mai, particularly on Mahidol Road in the city, Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road in Saraphi…

  • Senior judge accused of molestation on sleeper train to Chiang Mai | Thaiger

    Senior judge accused of molestation on sleeper train to Chiang Mai

    A female court stenographer has lodged a complaint with the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), alleging that a senior judge molested her while they were travelling on a sleeper train to Chiang Mai for a personnel development activity. Investigators, led by Police Colonel Ekkasit Panseetha, began their inquiry into the case on Wednesday, July 10, after the stenographer filed her lawsuit.…

  • Officer killed, another injured in Chiang Mai drug raid shooting | Thaiger

    Officer killed, another injured in Chiang Mai drug raid shooting

    A police officer lost his life and another was injured in a shooting incident involving a drug suspect in Chiang Dao district, Chiang Mai last night. A coordinated operation involving police, soldiers, and local officials took place at around 9.30pm yesterday, July 11, targeting the suspect’s residence in Jiachan village, Moo 13, located in the Mueang Na subdistrict. As the team…

  • New tree species unearthed in Thai Geopark | Thaiger

    New tree species unearthed in Thai Geopark

    Researchers from Chiang Mai University have uncovered a brand-new species of Ylang Ylang, or cananga tree, at the Satun UNESCO Global Geopark. Dubbed “Chalermprakiat” in honour of His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday, this discovery is set to shake the botanical world. Ylang Ylang, a tropical tree known for its fragrant flowers, is typically found in the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia,…

  • Chiang Mai used car dealers rev up amid economic turmoil | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai used car dealers rev up amid economic turmoil

    Chiang Mai’s used car dealerships are on the brink of collapse as they battle economic woes and intense price wars. The once-thriving market is now a battleground, with many dealerships shutting their doors while the survivors cling on by the skin of their teeth. The surge in repossessed vehicles and stricter financing regulations have only added fuel to the fire.…

  • Viral video reveals flaws in Chiang Mai homestay (video) | Thaiger

    Viral video reveals flaws in Chiang Mai homestay (video)

    A young man’s review of a homestay in Huay Kub Kab, Chiang Mai, has gone viral on social media, revealing numerous flaws in the accommodation, from an insecure lock to gaps in the roof. The video was intended as a humorous take on his experience. Nutthakorn (surname withheld) and his friends had travelled to Huay Kub Kab, Chiang Mai, to…

  • Road rage incident in Chiang Mai sparks online debate (video) | Thaiger

    Road rage incident in Chiang Mai sparks online debate (video)

    A recent incident involving a road rage altercation in Chiang Mai drew significant attention online. The dispute began when a woman driving slowly in the right lane was confronted by an irate driver, who accused her of using her mobile phone while driving. The incident, which occurred yesterday, involved 28 year old Aem, who was driving on Samphoch 700 Pi…

  • YouTubers’ motorbikes spotted on Chiang Mai route on Google | Thaiger

    YouTubers’ motorbikes spotted on Chiang Mai route on Google

    Google Street View captured two stylish motorbikes on the Chiang Mai–Mae Hong Son route, instantly recognised by netizens as belonging to popular YouTubers. The sighting has delighted fans who spotted their idols on the virtual map. Google Street View vehicles, known for capturing 360-degree panoramic images of locations for Google Maps, have a reputation for documenting everything in their path.…

  • Two South Korean illegal tour guides arrested in Chiang Mai | Thaiger

    Two South Korean illegal tour guides arrested in Chiang Mai

    Two South Korean nationals working illegally as tour guides in Chiang Mai have been arrested by the Royal Thai Immigration Bureau. Thai immigration detained the suspects, identified as 50 year old Han and 41 year old Kim, on a local road in Chiang Mai City. The arrests were made after immigration officers received tips from concerned citizens about their illegal…

  • Deputy headteacher found dead in car after 13-day search | Thaiger

    Deputy headteacher found dead in car after 13-day search

    Police confirmed the tragic discovery of a missing deputy headteacher, found dead in his car under a bridge in Chiang Mai after a 13-day search. The man, identified as 43 year old Ruchakorn Jaisanti, had been missing since June 16. Ruchakorn, also known as Bank, served as the deputy headteacher at San Pa Yang Nom School and the acting headteacher…

  • Sri Lanna Park adopts drones and firebreaks to combat wildfires | Thaiger

    Sri Lanna Park adopts drones and firebreaks to combat wildfires

    Sri Lanna National Park adjusted its wildfire prevention strategies, incorporating controlled burns to tackle forest fires effectively. Park Chief Anon Kullanin revealed that using drones to monitor and map the fires significantly aided the firefighting efforts. Sri Lanna National Park recently faced a challenging wildfire situation. According to Anon, the park utilised drones to identify hotspots and plan entry routes…

  • Chiang Mai lottery enthusiasts speculate on singer’s lucky numbers | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai lottery enthusiasts speculate on singer’s lucky numbers

    The excitement around the upcoming lottery draw on Sunday has reached a fever pitch in Chiang Mai, with many eagerly hunting for tickets featuring the most sought-after numbers, particularly those associated with the late singer Phumphuang Duangchan. Lottery stalls across various key locations, including Chiang Mai Gate, Arcade Bus Station, the railway station, Mahidol Road in Mueang District, and Chiang…

  • Brew discovery: Rare ancient tea plants sparks conservation efforts | Thaiger

    Brew discovery: Rare ancient tea plants sparks conservation efforts

    The discovery of rare ancient tea varieties in Chiang Mai has significant implications for global tea conservation. The area now holds Thailand’s largest collection of ancient tea genetics. The Director of the 16th Conservation Area Administration Office in Chiang Mai, Kritsiyam Khongsatri commissioned the survey. The team, including the Head of the Doi Chiang Dao Watershed Research Station, Manop Kaewfoo…

  • Chiang Mai locals hiss with concern over roadside snake (video) | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai locals hiss with concern over roadside snake (video)

    A large snake was spotted slithering by the roadside in Chiang Mai, sparking a flurry of comments from locals who have seen it before and are seeking solutions to the recurring issue. Early yesterday, residents reported seeing a large snake along the canal road near the Mae Hia market intersection in Chiang Mai. The incident, which occurred yesterday, June 11,…

  • Chiang Mai seeks public input on Mae Hod Reservoir project | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai seeks public input on Mae Hod Reservoir project

    The Department of National Parks (DNP) in Chiang Mai is gathering public opinions on revoking parts of Ob Luang National Park to construct the Mae Hod Reservoir, aimed at increasing water resources for farmers and reducing drought risks. The Ob Luang National Park, situated in Chiang Mai, opened a forum for stakeholders and local communities to voice their opinions on…

  • Chiang Mai statue restoration sparks debate over authenticity | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai statue restoration sparks debate over authenticity

    The Chiang Mai governor coordinated with the Fine Arts Department to restore a 400 year old giant statue at a prominent historical temple, sparking criticism from an academic who argues that the restoration was inappropriate. The controversy began when an assistant professor at the Faculty of Fine Arts at Chiang Mai University, Surachai Jongjitngam criticised the restoration of a large…

  • NHL player Jonas Siegenthaler hosts hockey camp in Chiang Mai | Thaiger

    NHL player Jonas Siegenthaler hosts hockey camp in Chiang Mai

    Chiang Mai hosted its first-ever NHL player camp, where Jonas Siegenthaler, a player of Thai heritage, conducted a three-day training session with Under-11 and Under-15 players, marking a groundbreaking moment for Thai hockey. Playing for Switzerland, Siegenthaler was fresh off his silver medal win at the World Championships in the Czech Republic, narrowly losing the title to the Czechia team.…

  • Chiang Mai lottery predictions spark excitement ahead of draw | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai lottery predictions spark excitement ahead of draw

    Chiang Mai‘s latest lottery predictions are out, with Kraisorn offering his insights ahead of an important date. Fans of the late singer Phumphuang Duangchan are eagerly hoping for a big win. Several significant numbers have been revealed by the lottery expert, promising hopefuls a chance at substantial financial gains. Yesterday at 8.40am, reports emerged about the bustling atmosphere in Chiang…

  • Myanmar couple makes history at Thai Pride parade | Thaiger

    Myanmar couple makes history at Thai Pride parade

    Denied the chance to celebrate their union in their homeland, where LGBTQ individuals face persecution and imprisonment, a Burmese same-sex couple sought peace and happiness in the more tolerant kingdom next door. The couple, Nyan and Mae, tied the knot in front of thousands at the annual Pride parade in Chiang Mai. The late-night ceremony on Sunday was only symbolic…

  • Fireworks factory explosion victims wait compensation a year on | Thaiger

    Fireworks factory explosion victims wait compensation a year on

    A devastating fireworks factory explosion in San Thung Mai village of Chiang Mai, left residents grappling with extensive damage and financial burdens nearly one year later. Compensation from the factory has yet to be received, forcing many to bear repair costs themselves, with some incurring expenses close to 200,000 baht. The explosion occurred around noon on July 24 last year,…

  • Chiang Mai Airport grants Grab exclusive ride-hailing rights | Thaiger

    Chiang Mai Airport grants Grab exclusive ride-hailing rights

    Chiang Mai Airport defended its decision to grant Grab exclusive rights to operate ride-hailing services at its passenger terminal. Only vehicles using the Grab app are permitted to pick up passengers at the airport, according to Chiang Mai Airport General Manager Ronnakorn Chalermsanyakorn. Ronnakorn explained that two categories of vehicles provide services at the airport. The first category includes non-regular…

  • Former PM Somchai Wongsawat stuns with senate bid | Thaiger

    Former PM Somchai Wongsawat stuns with senate bid

    Former Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat made a surprise appearance at the Chiang Mai district office at 9am, marking the opening of senatorial candidate registrations. Eyewitnesses report that Somchai, whose brief tenure as prime minister lasted from September 18 to December 2, 2008, did not address the media, slipping quietly into the registration process. Somchai’s short-lived stint as prime minister was…