Cold weather continues as temperatures edge up at Doi Inthanon; tourists flock to sea of mist views as Chiang Mai ranks among world’s top destinations
CHIANG MAI, Thailand — At 9 am on Jan. 3, 2026, Doi Inthanon National Park chief Jeeranit Cheangsa-at said the lowest temperature recorded at the summit was 5 degrees Celsius. Temperatures measured 8 degrees at Kew Mae Pan and 9 degrees at the park headquarters.
No frost was reported. Visitors experienced the cold conditions and enjoyed views of morning sunlight cutting through layers of mist at Kew Mae Pan. Later in the morning, a mix of mist and fog was expected to linger in the area.
Park officials reported that on Jan. 2, the park welcomed 7,188 visitors, 5,212 Thai tourists and 1,976 foreign visitors, with 1,865 vehicles entering the park.
Tourism remained strong during the extended New Year holiday, with visitors from China, South Korea, Japan and several European countries continuing to travel across Chiang Mai and its surrounding attractions.
Meanwhile, U.S. News, has released its ranking of the World’s Best Places to Visit 2026. The list was based on expert opinions, reader votes and current travel trends, assessing destinations on tourism appeal, culture, scenic beauty, food and other factors.
Chiang Mai ranked 15th on the list. The publication described the city as calm and relaxed, in contrast to the bustle of Bangkok, and an ideal starting point for experiencing Thailand’s urban culture. It highlighted visits to temples and the old city, shopping for handicrafts at night markets, and noted that Chiang Mai also serves as a perfect base for exploring natural landscapes or planning camping trips.
