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.

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.

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 Stars’, 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 197 kilometres north of Chiang Mai, roughly three hours each way by bus or car, which makes it the longest day on this list and one many people turn into an overnight instead. The draw is a set of modern temples: the blue Wat Rong Suea Ten and the Black House in and around the town, with the White Temple, listed separately here, on the road in.

Best Time: November to February

18 Chiang Rai Attractions

Emerald Lake is a jungle sinkhole in Ngao district, Lampang province, inside a national park, with water clear enough to see straight to the bottom. Entry is free and it is a hundred-metre walk in from the car park, but the last stretch of road is unpaved and steep, so it wants a vehicle with ground clearance and is best avoided after heavy rain. Swimming and fishing are not allowed, as locals hold the lake sacred.

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.

Baan Mae Kampong is a quaint mountain village blessed with 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.

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

17 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