Chiang Mai
Thailand
Varanasi
India
Chiang Mai
Varanasi
π° Budget
π‘οΈ Safety
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is one of the safest cities in Southeast Asia for travelers. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare, though petty theft and scams exist. The biggest health concern is air quality during burning season (February-April).
Varanasi
Varanasi is generally safe for tourists but requires street smarts. Petty theft, aggressive touts, and scams (especially fake guides and overpriced boat rides) are the main concerns. The narrow old city lanes can be disorienting. Solo female travelers should exercise extra caution, especially at night.
β Ratings
π€οΈ Weather
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai has a tropical savanna climate with three distinct seasons: hot, rainy, and cool. The city sits in a valley which traps heat and, unfortunately, smoke during the burning season (February-April).
Varanasi
Varanasi has a humid subtropical climate with extreme summers, a heavy monsoon season, and cool dry winters. The best months to visit are October through March when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is minimal.
π Getting Around
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai lacks a metro or rail system, so getting around relies on songthaews (red shared trucks), tuk-tuks, Grab ride-hailing, and rented scooters. The Old City is compact enough to walk or cycle. The city is currently building a light rail system planned for future years.
Walkability: The Old City is very walkable β roughly 1.5 km on each side β and most major temples are within easy walking distance of each other. The Nimmanhaemin area is also pedestrian-friendly. Beyond these areas, distances grow and motorized transport is needed.
Varanasi
Varanasi's old city is a labyrinth of narrow lanes (galis) where no vehicles can enter β walking is the only option near the ghats. For longer distances, auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and ride-hailing apps are available. Traffic is chaotic and roads are congested.
Walkability: The old city ghats and lanes are exclusively pedestrian and best explored on foot. Be prepared for steep ghat steps, cow dung on paths, and disorienting alleyways. Outside the old city, walking is less practical due to traffic and distances.
The Verdict
Choose Chiang Mai if...
you want northern Thailand's temple city β Doi Suthep sunsets, Sunday Walking Street, ethical elephant sanctuaries, and Songkran soaked to the bone
Choose Varanasi if...
you want Hinduism's spiritual core β dawn boat rides on the Ganges, Dashashwamedh ghat Ganga aarti, Manikarnika cremations, Sarnath Buddhist ruins, and silk markets
Chiang Mai
Varanasi