8 km
from city center
1 out of 136
things to do in 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. Located 25 km away from the main city and 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 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.
1 km
from city center
2 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Often regarded as the most beautiful Chiang Mai temple, Wat Phra Singh is a Buddhist temple in the western part of the old Chiang Mai City. It is perhaps the second most important Chiang Mai temple after Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. During each Songkran; the Thai New Year, the figure is taken out and paraded through the Chiang Mai streets. This religious procession witnesses spectators sprinkling water in honour over the statue.
10 km
from city center
3 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
World’s largest and ranked second as a nocturnal zoo, Chiang Mai Night safari park is an unparalleled African-Savannah-Cross Zoological park cum night safari located 11 kilometers south-west from the city center of Chiang Mai. It functions as a zoo by the day and as the world’s unmatched night safari after dawn. Modeled after Singapore Night Safari, the Chiang Mai Night Safari provides visitors with a mind-blowing experience similar to being out in the wilderness at night.
0 km
from city center
4 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
When you hear the sound of over 30 elephants trumpeting in the distance, you can be sure you are close to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai. Serving as a home to all those elephants who were once labourers to the logging and tourism industry of Thailand, the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is not less than heaven on Earth for these animals. During your trip to the place, you will experience the divine atmosphere in which these elephants live. Your experience will definitely become a memorable one when you reach out to the elephants and spend some time playing with them. And the best part of all is the friendliness with which the elephants accept you, responding equally to your tickling and splashing.
5 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Originating from Tibet, the Karen Hill Tribe, residing in the villages of Chiang Mai, are the largest ethnic minority group in Thailand. Comprising of four subgroups, each with their own language, attire and traditions, they are among the popular tourist tours in Chiang Mai. The most prominent among the subgroups of the Karen Hill Tribes are the Long Necks, famous for the women wearing brass rings around their necks. Considered auspicious jewellery by the women, the wearing of the brass rings gives an elongated neck appearance, leading to the women of the tribe being given the nickname 'giraffe women'.
58 km
from city center
6 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Located in the Chiang Mai province of Northern Thailand, the Doi Inthanon National Park is situated at the top of Doi Inthanon, the tallest mountain of the country. The spectacular views of the surroundings, as well as the interesting hiking trails and the beautiful waterfalls found at frequent intervals, is definitely worth a visit. Called imaginatively as the “Roof of Thailand,” this park enjoys a huge number of visitors who are amazed to find the montane farms and quaint villages inside the rain forest. The cool climate of Doi Inthanon National Park is yet another factor that finds a lot of takers.
$ 3 onwards
$ 321 onwards
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$ 6 onwards
7 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
A white water rafting experience like no other, Mae Taeng River's long 10 km route offers some of the most wild rapids and turns to conquer. Chiang Mai's jungles come alive as you go through the rapid river trail. Most tour operators offer excellent guides, safety equipment and also pick ups and drops from the hotel.
12 km
from city center
8 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Situated in and around the Doi Pui mountain, the Doi Pui Hmong Hill Tribe Village is a settlement where the people of the Hmong Tribe reside. The village offers insight into their lifestyle, folk culture, traditional artefacts and livelihood practices.
1 km
from city center
9 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
One of the most famous shopping experiences in Chiang Mai, the Sunday Walking Street is a busy night market that runs from Tha Pae Gate along Ratchadamnoen Road every Sunday. It is nothing short of a festival, complete with blazing lights, music, entertainment spaces, artists, massage parlours, local street foods, shops selling local handicrafts items, and of course, seas of people.
10 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
The nightlife in Chiang Mai, better known as the city of temples in Thailand, is not oblivious to hosting a good time when the sun sets. Chiang Mai turns into a treasure trove at night, when streets line up with markets, alcohol starts flowing, and there is a buzz of friendly cheer in the air. The nightlife in Chiang Mai has something for everyone and shows locals and tourists how to have a good time.
38 km
from city center
11 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
The dense jungles of Chiang Mai offer an exhilarating zip lining experience few can compare. With many such tour operators offering zip lining as part of their eco-tourism initiatives, adventure enthusiasts have long thronged to Chiang Mai to try the rapid and steep zip lining descents. What's more, during the descent, the local fauna can be observed as close as tourists dare. Flight of the Gibbon is one such operator known for its gibbon sightings.
4 km
from city center
12 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Loi Krathong is a festival of lights celebrated in Thailand to worship the water goddess. People gather around lakes and rivers to set afloat candles, tealights, flowers and incense atop special holders called krathongs. In Chiang Mai, this event coincides with the Yi Peng festival, where thousands of lanterns are released into the sky, turning the night magical.
1 km
from city center
13 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
The Mae Ping flowing through Chiang Mai gives ample opportunity for exciting river cruises to be organised along it. The Mae Ping River Cruise allows visitors to journey across the smooth waters and experience the local riverside sights and sounds of the city, or arrange a luxe dinner cruise, making for a grand yet cultural evening under the light of the stars.
1 km
from city center
14 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Thai cuisine is famed for spicy, sour and salty ingredients, especially lemongrass, turmeric and chilis. Hands-on cooking classes in Chiang Mai allow one to learn how to create delicacies like Khao Soi and chilli paste from scratch. Chef-instructed lessons are offered at May Kaidee's School and Chiang Mai Thai Cookery School. Vegan-friendly and farm-fresh courses are available at Sammy's Organic Thai Cooking School and the Thai Farm School.
1 km
from city center
15 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Songkran is an annual Thai festival that rings in the Buddhist New Year, marked by a national holiday in Thailand. Locals devote their time in prayer and veneration of the Buddha image, and then engage in water games, bursting firecrackers and preparing Thai delicacies. Due to the presence of numerous temples in Chiang Mai, many Thais prefer celebrating Songkran here.
1 km
from city center
16 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Cycling is immensely popular in Chiang Mai. Mae Rim–Samoeng trail is Chiang Mai’s largest cycling playground, home to waterfalls, valleys, elephant farms, hilly villages, national parks and Royal projects. The city’s longest dedicated bicycle trail runs from Chiang Mai Convention Centre to Huay Tung Tao. In addition, tourists can enjoy cycle tours for sightseeing in the old city and its five gates, Doi Suthep temple, Phuping Palace, Rubber Trees Road, and more.
1 km
from city center
17 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
One of the biggest 3D museums in the world, Art in Paradise is a very fun and exciting place in Chiang Mai. The museum is an ideal stoppage point for those who love to capture the wonders of the world through their camera lens. A giant cat pawing at you, a waterfall flowing beneath your feet, a huge wave following you and many more wonderful frescoes awaits you at the Art in Paradise Chiang Mai. These are just a pinch of 130 artistic illusion images spread throughout the museum.
1 km
from city center
18 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Bamboo rafting has been a major means of trade and transport in Thailand since ancient eras. In Chiang Mai, visitors can enjoy sitting on bamboo-built rafts in groups as experienced captains use poles for rowing gently over the river, cutting through mountains, rainforests, tribal villages, waterfalls, and elephant sanctuaries. The Mae Wang River and national park is Chiang Mai’s most popular bamboo river rafting spot, where guided tours and equipment cost THB 300-500.
19 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
The Golden Triangle in Thailand is that part of the natural terrain which islands situated in the far northern region of Thailand, in between the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. The landmass is triangular is a shape and is precisely located at the confluence of River Mekong and River Ruak. It occupies and area of a little less than a million square kilometres. The borders of the three countries consist mostly of densely forested mountains and the Golden Triangle overlaps with the mountainous terrain. The attraction, therefore, draws travellers who are constantly on the lookout for a place closer to nature.
1 km
from city center
20 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai straddles the Maenam Ping River. Cruising slowly, one can admire panoramic views of the Thai countryside, valleys, city lights, temples, houses and gardens on the riverbanks lighting up after sunset. River dinner cruises in Chiang Mai provide customisable menus, drinks and Thai delicacies for party bookings, romantic honeymoons and sightseeing tours in a fun-filled, relaxed setting. The two most popular operators are The Riverside Chiang Mai and Mae Ping River Cruise.
1 km
from city center
21 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Kayaking in Chiang Mai is ideal for getting the best of both land and water in the stunning Chiang Dao Valley. Glide over the tranquil Mae Ping River aboard an inflatable kayak as you go past verdant wetlands, jungles, bamboo forests and hills. Midway, you can stop to explore the ancient temples inside Chiang Dao Caves. October to April is the best time for kayaking in Chiang Mai.
18 km
from city center
22 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
The Canopy Walkway is one of the prime attractions that was newly inaugurated in 2015 within the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden. It is a walking trail made of a glass floor and suspended in the air, giving visitors a thrilling opportunity to get a gorgeous roundabout view of the forest, waterfalls, natural life and mountain ranges stretching far into the horizon.
15 km
from city center
23 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Planning a day's outing with your loved ones? Head over to Hang Dong Canyon, a striking canyon located just an hour away from Central Chiang Mai. It is also fondly known as the Grand Canyon of Chiang Mai – the name adapted from its American counterpart which looks uncannily similar. Away from the hustle-bustle of the city life, a visit to the Grand Canyon can be the much-needed change that you are looking for.
1 km
from city center
24 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Wat Chedi Luang or ‘the temple of the Great Stupa’ is a Buddhist temple inside the old city in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The current temple grounds originally consisted of three temples — Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Ho Tham and Wat Sukmi. The construction of the temple started in the 14th century under King Saen Muang Ma who planned to bury the ashes of his father there, due to prolonged issues the Wat was finally completed in the 15th century under the reign of King Tilokaraj.
1 km
from city center
25 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Opened in 2014, The Lila Thai Massage Centre in Chiang Mai was established by Naowarat Thanasrisutharat, former Director of Chiang Mai Women's Prison. Today, over 2,000 female ex-prisoners are offering Thai massages to women in Chiang Mai across six locations. These skilled women combine acupressure and assisted yoga in Thai massages, using their forearms, thumbs, fingers and elbows to knead the muscles and help you relax.
68 km
from city center
26 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
At the foothills of the Chiang Dao mountain lies the Chiang Dao Cave, full of natural wonders and mysteries. The interiors of the cave are patterned with the naturally occurring stalagmites and stalactites. The cave running for more than 12 kilometres also contains several Buddhist relics, ancient statues, a lovely fish pond, and exciting dark passageways.
1 km
from city center
27 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Located opposite the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre, Lanna Folklife Museum is an exhibition celebrating traditions of the ancient Lanna Kingdom. It has 18 exhibits depicting everyday activities from local life, with realistic life-sized wax statues of people. They are accompanied by information boards which describe the scenes in Thai, Mandarin and English.
9 km
from city center
28 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
The Chiang Mai countryside sprawled across scenic mountains and lush greenery, is inhabited by a number of traditional hill tribes. Tribes like the Akha, Palong, Karen and the famous Padaungs have settled in villages which are funded and developed by royal charities and relief organisations. They can be found in and around the Doi Suthep mountains, Huey Naam Rin, Nor Lae, and Nong Tong Villages where they often engage in producing handcrafted tribal arts for livelihood.
1 km
from city center
29 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Warorot Market can be thought of as an authentic Thai supermarket that sells everything under the sun. Aisles are flanked by stalls which display fresh spices, farm produce, local delicacies, condiments, bags, footwear, clothes, accessories and domestic appliances. The market is always buzzing with locals, making it the perfect place to completely immerse oneself in Thai culture.
5 km
from city center
30 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai offers several hiking opportunities to those in search for adventure on a holiday. The presence of hills and natural beauty in the region have allowed hiking trails like the Wat Pha Lat, Doi Suthep, Huay Tung Tao and Doi Inthanon to become popular among tourists and trekkers. Every hike promises breathtaking views, cultural history and a refreshing experience.
31 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
A medium sized village perched on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, Bo Sang Umbrella Village is a handicrafts village. Beautiful little paper umbrellas of different vibrant colours are made and sold here. These pretty canopies are a part of their heritage handicraft and are known for their quality, not just locally but internationally. The uniquely interesting village is a picturesque beauty, unlike any regular traditional market. Tourists can engage in an interaction with the villagers here to understand their lifestyles and their work. There are also workshops where one can learn the art of making these colorful little canopies.
1 km
from city center
32 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Located in the background of the Three Kings Monument, Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre is the one-stop destination for those looking to learn Chiang Mai's comprehensive history. Through masterful mosaics, paintings, maps, relics and life-sized sculptures, this place takes one on a captivating tour of Chiang Mai, right from its early settlements to its modern culture.
5 km
from city center
33 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Lying on the outskirts of Chiang Mai is the lost city of Wiang Kum Kam. An archaeological site, the city of Wiang Kum Kam, was located on the banks of the Ping River and was once the capital city of the Lanna kingdom. Abandoned in the 16th century due to the flooding of the river, the remains of the city were only discovered in the 1980s.
4 km
from city center
34 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Nestled near the Doi Suthep mountain, Wat U Mong Thera Jan is a peaceful temple far from the city bustle. It is also called the Tunnel Temple due to its labyrinth network of tunnels set within the forest. It offers a wholesome experience of Buddhism, complete with ancient stone structures, Dhamma teachings, meditation sessions and prayer chants reverberating in the air.
1 km
from city center
35 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
The Saturday Walking Street is a night market that locates itself on the Wualai Road every Saturday. The road is lined with shops selling local goods, handicrafts, mementos and authentic Thai street food. The evening comes alive with colourful displays and chattering crowds. Inexpensive foot massage booths are also available for customers tired after an evening of gala.
5 km
from city center
36 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Spread across 200 acres, The Chiang Mai Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in northern Thailand. Housing animal species from all over the world, the Chiang Mai Zoo also has an Aviary, called Nakornping Bird Park, housing over 1500 species of local and international bird species.
8 km
from city center
37 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Originally built to commemorate the anniversaries of the Royal King's birth and his accession to the throne, Royal Park Rajapruek is now a public park popular among locals and tourists alike. Due to the many varieties of plant species growing here, it is the hub of agricultural research today. Its several exhibits showcase everything from international flora to Thai historical culture.
3 km
from city center
38 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
The Kat Rin Kham Night Bazaar, located next to Maya Mall, is a small night market in Chiang Mai. It is popular as the University Market, due to its close proximity to Chiang Mai University, and is a local favourite among the youth. Shops sell everything from street food, clothes, accessories, bags, manicures and crafts, at cheap prices beginning from as low as THB 40.
1 km
from city center
39 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Built in 1296 CE during the inception of Chiang Mai, Wat Chiang Mai is the oldest temple in the city. It has two decorated viharns, which contain the oldest and highly venerated Buddha images. The temple is decorated with elaborate golden structures and intricate engravings. The compound also has a scripture library called the Ho Trai, and a lovely lotus pond.
3 km
from city center
40 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Wat Chet Yot is a temple in Chiang Mai where many cultures collide. The architecture of the temple and the spires have clear Indian, Thai and Lanna influences, with symbolic depictions of Buddha's life. The stuccoed temple is especially venerated as a place of worship for those born in the Year of the Snake, according to the Chinese calendar.
0 km
from city center
41 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Wat Phakhao is a small, quiet Buddhist temple located along Ratchapakhinai Road. Since it isn't very popular, it offers a respite from noise and crowds. The temple structures are simply built, with interiors decorated with red and gold designs, and the exteriors flanked by lovely gardens. The place holds also holds monk chats, where visitors can converse with learned monks about Buddhism.
120 km
from city center
42 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Doi Ang Khang is the perfect mountain getaway for those looking for adventure and relaxation rolled into one. Since it is known for its natural beauty, there are opportunities for hiking, nature trails, birdwatching and mountain biking. Many tourist attractions such as the Bonsai Garden, Kiu Lom Viewpoint, and the Royal Agricultural Station are situated here, for visitors to enjoy a tryst with nature.
24 km
from city center
43 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Also known as ‘Doi Mon Jam’ and 'Mon Chaem', located just about 45 minutes from the Province of Chiang Mai, Mon Jam is a mountaintop community and national park in the Mae Rim County. This is also a part of the Royal Project, which empowers the residents to use sustainable farming methods to cultivate a variety of crops around the year.
1 km
from city center
44 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Talat Pratu, commonly known as the Chiang Mai Gate Market, is a large local market in Chiang Mai, which locals access to fulfil their daily domestic needs. Located along the Bumrung Buri Road, vendors begin setting up shop during the wee hours of morning, selling everything from fruits, vegetables, Thai condiments, traditional preparations of meat, and souvenirs.
1 km
from city center
45 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Rich with history of its origin, Wat Lokmoli is a temple that dates back to the era of the Mengrai Dynasty during the 14th century. It is known most significantly for its chedi, which is among the largest of all the temples in Chiang Mai. The alluring temple is decorated with structures of traditional serpents, wooden carvings, ornamental gateways and even a statue of a Lanna queen.
1 km
from city center
46 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Considered as one of the older temples of Chiang Mai, Wat Phan Tao is a very beautiful temples. Built as a palace for Chao Mahawong the temple was converted into a monastery in the late 19th century. The teak wood viharn exude classic charm and was built when the teak trade was at its peak.
10 km
from city center
47 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Huay Tung Tao Lake, a man-made reservoir, is a stunning waterside location just outside Chiang Mai to spend the day. It features a gorgeous view of the Doi Suthep mountains, calming waters, and grass huts peppered along the landscape. It has dozens of restaurants with seating floating atop the lake where you can grab a bite, order a drink, lay back, and relax. Chiang Mai may be a land-locked area in the typically beach-famous country of Thailand, but its hidden wonders like Huay Tung Tao Lake provide respite on even the hottest of days.
18 km
from city center
48 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Patara Elephant Farm is a interactive park aimed at the care and conservation of elephants. Visitors can feed them, ride on their backs, play with them in their natural habitat and even assist in their healthcare activities. The farm also allows people to become elephant owners for a day, which is a great opportunity to establish a loving bond with the species.
1 km
from city center
49 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
One of the quieter markets in the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, the Kalare Night Bazaar is an arcade which hosts a string of shops that cater to all of a visitor's needs, right from clothes and jewellery to gifting options and tour operators. The market is known for its dining options which offer a plethora of cuisines, and its entertainment spaces which organise fascinating performances.
10 km
from city center
50 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
San Kamphaeng & Bo Sang are two villages near Chiang Mai, that thrive on authentic handicraft and textile production. San Kamphaeng is famous for its various beautiful silk and cotton products, while Bo Sang, also known as the Umbrella Village, is invested in creating bright floral umbrellas symbolic of Chiang Mai. In both these places, visitors can observe the skill with which the manufacturers practice their craft.
18 km
from city center
51 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
One of the largest elephant relief camps in the city, Maesa Elephant Camp is a conservative which houses elderly, baby and rescued elephants. They strive towards providing full comfort to them, tending to their dietary and healthcare needs. Visitors can enjoy several talent shows and skills performed by the elephants, among which painting and football are the most popular.
18 km
from city center
52 out of 136
things to do in Chiang Mai
Founded in 1992, Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden prides on being Thailand's largest botanical garden. Encompassing within it the panoramic vistas of the Doi Suthep mountains, the garden has several walking trails and a massive glasshouse where visitors can familiarise themselves with exotic specimens of forests and plant-life from all over the world.