Hang Dong

Hang Dong is where Chiang Mai's expat families with larger budgets tend to settle, drawn by spacious houses with gardens, a quieter suburban pace, and proximity to several well-regarded international schools. The area has a distinctly different character from inner-city Chiang Mai — think tree-lined roads through craft villages, pottery studios, and antique shops rather than trendy cafes and night markets.

Hang Dong has more accessible green space than any other Chiang Mai neighborhood. The Royal Park Rajapruek is a 50-acre botanical garden with themed gardens, cycling paths, a children's playground, and regular seasonal flower festivals. It is a favorite weekend destination for families across the city, but Hang Dong residents enjoy it as their local park.

Hang Dong is a car-dependent neighborhood. The distances between home, school, shops, and restaurants make walking impractical for most daily activities. Most expat families own or rent a car, and a second motorbike is common for quick local errands. The roads are wider and less congested than inner-city Chiang Mai, making driving relatively pleasant.

Daily life in Hang Dong revolves around the home and school community. Mornings start with school runs — the neighborhood's international schools are the social anchor, and drop-off and pickup times are when parents connect. Many families develop routines around the school schedule, with activities clustered before and after.

Hang Dong sits at a slightly lower elevation than central Chiang Mai and closer to the surrounding agricultural land, which influences its microclimate. Temperatures are comparable to the city center but can feel a degree or two warmer during the hot season due to less urban shade. However, properties with gardens and trees benefit from natural cooling that compensates for this.