Day Trips From Chiang Mai

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, also popular as simply Doi Suthep, is an ideal place to visit if you wish to seek spirituality during your trip to Chiang Mai. Situated atop the Doi Suthep mountain amidst the dense forests of the Doi Suthep National Park, the holy shrine occupies a pious corner in the hearts of Thai people due to the legend and the history associated with it. Further, the stunning view of the Chaing Mai downtown region from the Doi Suthep temple makes it an ideal sightseeing destination to plan a visit to.

Wat Rong Khun is an architectural wonder filled with Buddhist elements. Famously known as the White Temple, Wat Rong Khun was built by the brilliant artist Chalermchai Kostipitat. The temple shows architecture poortraying the well known Buddhist teachings of heaven, hell and karma. The ornate white color of the temple symbolises the purity of Buddha and his Dhamma teachings. The entrance of the temple is over a bridge below which there are skulls and grasping hands representing hell, and crossing the bridge and reaching the temple represents entry to heaven. It's a very unique sight and a must-do for all the travellers.

Mae Sa Waterfall is an eight level waterfall set amidst the lush rainforests of Mae Sa. Visitors can picnic near the lower waterfalls, or trek upwards to the higher tiers which are uncrowded and peaceful. There are several vendors around who sell local street food delicacies that tourists can enjoy. The surrounding Mae Sa valleys also offer opportunities for adventure activities.

Doi Inthanon National Park is home to the highest peak in Thailand, Doi Inthanon. The Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, containing many specimens of the animal kingdom, lush jungles, waterfalls and a massif of mountains in the background. Some tribal communities also reside within this protected area, with authorities working tirelessly towards their cultural growth.

Literally known as the 'City of Starsäó, Chiang Dao is a beautiful town lying in the Chiang Mai Province. It is best popular for the Chiang Dao mountain that stands amidst the widespread greens of the countryside. It is an active centre for tourist activity with several sightseeing options such as the Chiang Dao Caves, hot springs, national parks, tribal villages, and adventure sports.

Known For : Wat Rong Khun Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) Baan Dam Museum

Chiang Rai is a mountainous city in northern Thailand, near the borders of Laos and Myanmar. It has many ancient temples and tribal villages along the Mekong river. It has a plenitude of historical and cultural attractions and immerses a traveller in its pleasant collection of temples, art, music, and local food.

Best Time: November to February

18 Chiang Rai Attractions

While tourists in Chiang Mai are usually attracted to Buddhist temples, embellished with carved serpents, those who end up visiting Emerald Lake are marvelled by its beauty. This hidden gem is located three and a half hours east to Chiang Mai. People can easily plan a day trip to this place so that they can spend some quiet time here and also make their way back home just in time before the sun completely sets. The locals consider this lake to be sacred and visit it every year to make their offerings. Thus, while fishing, feeding the fish, and swimming are not allowed, this rare cenote in Thailand is enchanting and an ideal place to have a calm and peaceful time.

Being one of the most popular sites for tourists, hot springs in Wiang Pa Pao consists of three natural hot springs well. Also known as the Maekachan Hot Springs, the Wiang Pa Pao Hot Springs is a stress-relieving experience. An unusual, yet exciting activity in these hot springs is boiling chicken eggs. The water’s temperature is about 80-degree Celcius such that eggs are boiled in 3 minutes in these springs.

Baan Mae Kampong is a quaint mountain village blessed with picturesque waterfalls, streams, mountains, and forests that make up its neighborhood. It heavily promotes eco-tourism and homestays so that visitors can familiarise themselves with the traditions of the local folk and live like them. Located just 1 hour away, it is a good place to visit on a day trip from Chiang Mai.

Timings : All Day

Entry Fee : No Entry Fee

Further north of Chiang Mai lies the tourist town of Mae Rim, bursting with attractions and activity. Consisting of a single road branching into segues best navigable by a scooter, it is famously known for the Mae Sa Waterfall, Mae Sa Elephant Park, Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden, Mon Chaem hilltop view point and the Samoeng Loop, a hub of motorcycling and other extreme sports.

Lampang is the capital of Lampang Province and Lampang District in Northern Thailand. The city is known for its riverside charm, old Buddhist temples, and laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular day trip from Chiang Mai. Visit waterfalls, natural hot springs, caves, a ceramic museum, an elephant conservation center, and various shops, including two of the best markets in the North.

Best Time: January to February, July

Known For : Pai Canyon Nam Lod Cave Tubing in Pai

Located between Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai, this beautiful little town of Pai is surrounded by mountains everywhere and is a dream destination for travelers. The alluring river Pai flows across this town, making rafting a popular sport here. Trekking and hiking are other adventurous options.

Best Time: November to February

18 Pai Attractions

Known For : Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu Buat Luk Khaeo Festival Explore Mae Sariang

Mae Hong Son is a town in the Shan Hills, close to Burma's outskirts along the River Pai's banks. It is a perfectly secluded town, and its magnificence makes it a perfect day trip from Chiang Mai. The Cascades, hot springs, moving mountains, and forests of Mae Hong Son add to the city's charm. 

Best Time: November to February

13 Mae Hong Son Attractions