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Chiang Mai Tours & Trips

Chiang Mai, a city located in the mountains of Northern Thailand , is a popular stop among travellers on their way to touring Southeast Asia . It is a city of contrasts, where the old town is filled with Buddhist temples, while the modern part of the city boats countless restaurants, cafes and shops. Chiang Mai is also a great starting point for exploring trekking routes going into the nearby mountains that will reveal tribal villages and ancient temples.

105 Chiang Mai tour packages with 554 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

Northern Thailand Hilltribes Trek

nice tour, interesting people

• In-depth Cultural
• Local Living

Northern Thailand: Hilltribes & Villages

Great tour, trekking, guide was fantastic!

Explore Northern Thailand

Great tour and group. We had a lot of fun exploring Northern Thailand.

Fantastic Circle of Thailand Tour - 10 Days

The tour was great and flying everywhere was a good idea because it's fast. The only thing that I did not like was the day spent travelling to Chiang Rai, it was way too much driving for nothing and it felt like a wasted day . I really liked my tour guide in Chiang Mai.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Amazing Thailand In 10 Days - Private Tour

This trip was filled with free time and great suggestions as how you may be able to enjoy it like a local. My first contact was Long Pham who's help was invaluable. The tour guides and drivers were exceptional Marie, in Bangkok, Chenn, in Chiang Mai and Kai in Phuket.

Thailand Highlights 10-Day Package

Generally it's good.

Thailand & Laos Adventure (6 destinations)

Bangkok and Golden Triangle, Small Group Tour

Great tour but the Bangkok to Chiang Mai journey could have been planned much better. You are told to take an early flight so we had to leave the hotel at 5am. They they collect you and transfer you to the hotel by around 10.30am. You can't check in until 3pm and the tour doesn't begin again until 1.30pm so you just have to wait in the lobby for 3 hours. We were going to book a flight that arrives at 11.15am but was told that it was too late; why? Luckily our tour guide and driver brought the afternoon tour forward to 12.40pm. It would have been better to charge slightly more and include the flight and have everyone arrive at around 12 Noon. Drop off the bags at the hotel and then go on the afternoon tour. Alternatively, allow the people to arrive on the 11.15 flight. That is still two hours prior to the afternoon activities.

A 5 Day Tuk Tuk Adventure in beautiful Chiang Mai

do it! It was one of the best trips I've taken and such a unique experience driving a tuk tuk.

• Volunteering

Hill Tribes of Northern Thailand: Environmental Conservation, Education, and Elephant Trekking

Words cannot describe my experience with GIVE in Thailand. I learned what it means to be a global citizen and to travel responsibly and now I never want to do it any other way. The connections I made with people while in Thailand will forever be with me. I made a family out there with other volunteers and staff who will always be in my heart. I found home away from home and I learned so much from every single person I met. Including the beautiful kids and locals. I will 100% be volunteering through GIVE again next year!

• Coach / Bus

5 DAYS EXPLORE THAILAND

Boat trip on ha long bay was fantastic - food amazing and lots of activities. Our hotel on first night was changed and was disappointing but hotel on return was better

North Thailand Highlights, Small Group Tour (English Only)

Great tour to explore Northern Thailand, taking in many of the sites. The White Temple was a highlight.

Exotic Thailand

The trip itself was absolutely fabulous, everything I had hoped for!! Both Lana and Jack were excellent tour guides who were both friendly and very knowledgeable! The only downside was not being able to find the airport shuttle when I returned to Bangkok. I asked 2 different security guards where I might find it and neither one knew. I asked the AOT shuttle information desk, they didn't know and told me to take a taxi. I would definitely recommend to my friends and co-workers whom I'm sure are anxious for me to STOP talking about this trip!! ????

11 Day Tuk Tuk Adventure in Thailand - with driver!

If you have a spirit of adventure and want to see real Thailand then this is for you. Don't do half measures the 11 days is the one for you.

Unleashing the Wonders of Thailand in 10 Days

It was our first trip to Asia, and we are so happy we have chosen to go to Thailand. It is a wonderful place! I cannot tell what we loved the most, because everything was fantastic. Our agent was in communication with us via WhatsApp from booking and throughout the trip, and they were flexible in personalizing the activities, we were not rushed from place to place, but could focus on what really interested us. I will highly recommend booking this tour.

What people love about Chiang Mai Tours

Fantastic trip ! I thoroughly enjoyed this experience. Our guide spoke excellent English and was always explaining things to us, sharing information about plants or food or the history of the area and people. He had a great way of keeping the motivation and energy of the group high using laughter and fun. He’s just so good at his job. The local guides worked so hard for us as well carrying water and supplies and stepping stones if necessary. The host families were amazing preparing delicious foods and sharing their culture and customs. This is a really unique and challenging trip to take (from the perspective of opening your mind to a very different lifestyle). A few things to be aware of: you absolutely need proper water shoes or sandals as there’s a lot of river crossing and flip flops are too unstable, facilities in some places may be limited such as electricity, indoor plumbing or showers. Water may be boiled. The children in the villages are the best as they seem to really enjoy interacting with the tourists! Along with the introduction to traditional Thai cultural customs I got to make friends with a group of people of all ages who came from all over the world. So fun ! Just do it you won’t regret it !

I had an amazing time with G Adventures! The itinerary was perfect; there was a lot to do and see, but it wasn't overwhelming and there was a lot of free time provided. My guide, Prem, was one of the sweetest, loveliest people I've ever met! She is brilliant at her job, and brings so much enthusiasm to work. She is extremely knowledgeable, and was always willing to share her knowledge with the group. Miss her so much already!

Very nice balance of long travel days followed more settled sight seeing day. Loved the freetime options occasionally too, often tours are so critivall3timed, no sparetime to shop for souvenirs or just do as you wish. Arjan was a very attentive guide, going above and beyond to help some clients.

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10 Best Chiang Mai Tours: Temples, Treks + Food

This article has links to products and services we love, which we may make commission from.

While the south has acquired international fame for its incredible white sand beaches, the north is a magnet for visitors interested in culture, food, and hiking in Thailand . In this article, we’re going to introduce some great Chiang Mai tours that will give you efficient access to the best that this city has to offer, including some of the best day trips from Chiang Mai .

And when we say visitors, we mean a lot of them! Some 10 million people come to Chiang Mai every year, including many domestic tourists who flock to Chiang Mai’s gorgeous temples , some of which are the most important places of Buddhist worship in all of Northern Thailand.

But even with all those visitors, Chiang Mai’s relaxed feel, lack of skyscrapers, and quaint Old City lanes are some of its main draws. That’s why so many foreigners and digital nomads end up sticking around here, and Chiang Mai is the gateway to an ideal home base for visiting the north of Thailand.

This guest post was contributed by Nick Kembel. Nick fell in love with Asia when he first visited Chiang Mai in 2001 and has been living in that part of the world for over 10 years.

» » Going to Thailand? Don’t miss our 2-week itinerary! « «

Chiang mai tourist information.

As such a popular city, deciding when to visit Chiang Mai is a decision that will have a major effect on your trip. November to February has the best weather, especially for outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, and cycling. However, it is the busiest season, especially in January, so you will need to book your accommodation early and you can expect tourist crowds.

From March until the end of June, the weather gets hotter and clammier by the day but are less busy. In March and April, the air also gets smoky from farmers burning their crops, while May and June can be unbearably hot. If you like tropical heat, though, this could be a great time for you! June to October, the rainy season, sees the fewest tourists and the best room prices. It’s not a bad time to travel, as mornings are often rain-free, and watching life go as the city gets drenched can be fun. Just bring lots of rain gear!

Chiang Mai is a far more manageable size than Bangkok. Most tourists stay in or near Chiang Mai’s lovely walled Old City, where some of the city’s most important temples are found. The Old City’s main street, Ratchadamnoen Road, turns into a popular market street on Sunday evening. This road also leads east out of the old city to enormous Warorot market, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, and a riverside area that features a flower market and some popular restaurants overlooking the river.

West of the Old City, Chiang Mai University sits at the base of Doi Suthep, a 1676-meter mountain. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most important temple, overlooks the city from the slope of the mountain. Further afield, Chiang Mai’s national parks provide opportunities for trekking and visiting hill tribes. We don’t recommend riding elephants in Thailand , but we’ll introduce the best elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai !

The Chiang Mai International Airport is conveniently located just southwest of the Old City. If you get tired of haggling with tuk-tuk drivers, download Grab, similar to Uber, with fares that are often half what tuk-tuk drivers ask for. The cheapest way to get around is to hop on a local Songthaew (those red pickup trucks), which run along routes like buses but can also be hired privately like tuk-tuks.

Now that we’ve got you oriented, let’s look at the best tours in Chiang Mai!

Chiang Mai Tours

1. temple hopping tours.

Chiang Mai’s array of stunning, ancient temples is one of the city’s key characteristics. Most of the Chiang Mai’s temples date back to the Lanna Kingdom (1292-1775) when Chiang Mai was the capital of a large Indian-influenced state. Buddhist Lanna temples feature strikingly ornate details, towering golden chedis, and multi-tiered roofs.

It is possible to visit Chiang Mai’s temples on your own, especially in the Old City, but some of the temples outside of the Old City walls can be a little harder to reach, including Chiang Mai’s most important temple, Doi Suthep. Furthermore, visiting Thai temples with a knowledgeable guide can help you to know what’s going on inside the temple when to do what, and also learn more about the temple’s history and unique architecture.

This eight-hour tour takes in the three most important temples in the Old City, while this full-day tour combines a visit to Doi Suthep with a visit to a “sticky waterfall,” which flows down a limestone wall that you can actually climb up.

» » Check out this 5-star tour of Doi Suthep Temple + Sticky Waterfalls « «

2. the best elephant camp in chiang mai.

As we mentioned above, riding elephants in Thailand is unethical and we don’t recommend it. Operators in Chiang Mai are aware that many tourists don’t want to anymore, so a lot of them now advertise “no riding” and “cruelty-free,” but the sad truth is that many of them are still like prisons for elephants.

Fortunately, there’s one that everybody agrees is ethical and the best of Chiang Mai’s Elephant camps: Elephant Nature Park . 60km north of the city, the sizeable park is a legitimate rescue centre, not only for dozens of abused elephants but also cats, dogs, buffalos, and more.

Elephant Nature Park has volunteer positions, houses guests overnight, and offers popular half-day and full-day Chiang Mai elephant tours (book early in the high season!), both which include vegetarian buffet lunch and pick-up and drop-off anywhere in or near the Chiang Mai Old City.

The tours involve a fair amount of walking and time outside, so dress appropriately. There are some graphic photos, videos, and stories, so it can be an emotional experience. We brought our kids along and found the half-day tour ideal.

» » You may also like – Two Scots Abroad’s review of Elephant Nature Park « «

3. chiang mai jungle trekking.

Chiang Mai’s hiking trails are lush and overflowing with life. You can expect to walk well-maintained trails through dense bush and bamboo forests, with the sounds of trickling streams and waterfalls, some which you can swim in, and the chance to spot tropical birds and oversized bugs.

You don’t have to venture far from the city to enjoy some of the best  Chiang Mai hiking tours ; this seven-hour small group trekking tour takes in bamboo forests, awesome city views, multiple waterfalls swims, and empty trails on Doi Suthep (mountain) , finishing at Doi Suthep temple. You’ll hardly believe you are right beside a major city.

This route can be a little tough, so you should be in decent shape to join.

» » Check availability of the full day Doi Suthep Trekking Tour « «

Hill tribe trekking is another activity that is practically synonymous with travelling in northern Thailand. A highly recommended tour with excellent guides is this full-day trekking tour to five hill tribes in Chiang Dao, north of Chiang Mai.

The tour provides you with the opportunity to immerse yourself in hill tribe culture without having to stay overnight like on many other trekking tours.

4. White Water Rafting in Chiang Mai

It’s adventure time! If you’ve never tried white water rafting , why not give it a shot in Chiang Mai? This professionally run, full-day tour combines three awesome activities: 2-3 hours of trekking through the jungle, swimming under a waterfall, and of course white water rafting. Before racing through some of the best whitewater in Thailand, the leaders do proper training and a warm-up run.

» » Need for speed? See Chiang Mai’s white water rafting trips! « «

5. food tours in chiang mai.

Chiang Mai’s food is legendary. Lanna cuisine is influenced by Lao, Burmese, and Yunnanese cuisines, and true to stereotype, the real stuff is often so spicy that you’ll be left in a sweat. Amazing sticky rice, which is often grabbed in clumps with the hand from little baskets, is a staple, while fiery green and red chilli sauces come on the side.

Som tum (raw papaya salad) is a common favourite, while the city’s classic dish, khao soi, is a mild coconut curry with crunchy egg noodles on top that you’ll probably never find in a Thai restaurant abroad. Unlike southern Thailand, the seafood isn’t great in Chiang Mai, so it’s better not to bother.

Really, though, these dishes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to food in Chiang Mai. So how can you know where to start, with so many local specialities, restaurants, and night markets in the city?

By joining a food tour , of course! On this 2.5-hour local street food tour, you can try several snacks and dishes that you may never have heard of or thought to try, and you can also learn some basic Thai phrases for ordering food.

» » Foodies: Don’t bypass this Chai Mai food tour – Book today « «

6. take a cooking class.

Give a person a Thai curry and you feed her/her for a day. Teach him/her to cook and you feed her/him for life! In a city and country that is world-renowned for both its markets and cuisine, taking a cooking class can be an awesome way to immerse yourself in local food culture and learn how to replicate some of those awesome local dishes long after you’ve left!

Thai cuisine is one that is often loved and enjoyed, but few people outside of Thailand known how to do it right.

On this half-day tour , you do exactly that. After visiting a local market, you are taken to a farm outside the city where you learn to prepare five dishes of your choice.

7. Chiang Mai Walking Tours

While Chiang Mai’s Old City temples and markets get all the fame, one of the most pleasant experiences when visiting can be simply walking around and taking it all in. Veering off of and getting lost in the city’s laid-back lanes is a must. For a quick sample, try Phra Pok Klao alley 12, a calm leafy alley behind chill Wat U Mong Mahathera Chan, which connects to Inthawarorot Rd. and Wat Inthakin. To really get lost though, head towards any of the four corners of the Old City and see where you end up.

» » Read next: things not to miss in Koh Samui « «

8. chiang mai biking tours.

Chiang Mai’s traffic is far easier to handle than in the country’s capital, Bangkok, making it a great city to explore by bike. Outside of the city, you can also peddle past agricultural land, forested foothills, and countryside temples.

There are many options for cycling tours in Chiang Mai . Some tours get you well out of the city, where you pedal through the countryside and visit forest temples. Other take you to some of the city centre’s most famous attractions, lit up at night. Foodies can try the evening culinary cycling tour!

9. Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon is Thailand’s tallest peak, at 2565 meters. The mountain is a cool respite from the city, and the park around it features protected forests, waterfalls, wildlife, and is home to Karen tribes. It is an hour-long drive from the Chiang Mai Old City.

This full-day Doi Inthanon tour takes you right to the top of the mountain, as well as visiting rice terraces, waterfalls, and twin stupas that commemorate King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit (see the cover photo of this article).

10. Chiang Rai’s White Temple

Chiang Rai is like a mini version of Chiang Mai, three hours drive to the north, in the Golden Triangle Area, once known for opium production. Chiang Rai is deeper into hill tribe territory and therefore offers better hill tribe trekking opportunities if you’ve got more time.

This long, full-day tour takes in the White Temple, as well as other sites and temples in the Golden Triangle area, including seeing the place where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet from the Golden Triangle Lookout Point.

» Don’t miss our essential packing list for Thailand   «

Final Words

Chiang Mai should not be one quick stop on your Thailand itinerary. It’s the kind of place where you base yourself and plan a whole trip around. For my most recent trip, we spent 10 days in Chiang Mai and barely left the city or surrounding area. Take your time here, enjoying every amazing meal, marvelling at the city’s awesome temples, and exploring the Old City, hills, and countryside beyond!

Nick Kembel has been living in Taiwan and exploring Asia for 10+ years and is the author of ‘Taiwan in the Eyes of a Foreigner’ and other books. Find more of his work at   Spiritual Travels .

» » Read next: what do with 24 hours in Bangkok! « «

Gemma is an award-winning blogger who loves to plan trips and publish travel guides and packing lists so you don't have to! Owner of Two Scots Abroad Travel Guides, married to Craig, the other Scot, and dog mom to Bowie the Shepsky. Loves cities, road trips, skiing and karaoke. Hates coriander.

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Top Tours in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang mai tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 3-in-1: Doi Inthanon Tour, Elephant Sanctuary, and Trekking Trail

2. Half-Day Thai Cooking Class at Organic Farm in Chiang Mai

3. Doi Inthanon National Park, Waterfall and Royal Project Tour

4. Chiang Rai Temples: Private Tour from Chiang Mai

5. Chiang Rai White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House from Chiang Mai

6. Half-Day Elephant Rescue Center Experience in Chiang Mai

7. Cooking Class with Organic Farm in Chiang Mai at Mama Noi

8. Private Tour in Chiang Mai Village Experience Nature

9. The Best City Tour View Points Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Pha Lat

10. Care Pride Elephants: Full-Day Tour Experience

11. Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings

12. Doi Inthanon National Park 1-Day Tour with Nature Trail Trekking

13. Zipline Adventure at Skyline Jungle Luge Chiang Mai

14. Thai and Akha Cooking Class in Chiang Mai

15. Best seller!! Amazing Night tour, Doi Suthep + Wat umong - Top Must visit!

16. Full-Day Chiang Dao Kayaking, Caving, and Jungle Tour from Chiang Mai

17. Best Places in Chiang Rai White, Blue, Big Buddha, Tea Plantation

18. Cooking Morning Class Chiang Mai Visit Organic Garden and Market

19. Small-Group Chiang Mai Evening Street Food Tour

20. Full day car hire with private English speaking driver

21. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Small-Group Sunrise Tour

22. Doi Inthanon Private Tour with Trek & Lunch from Chiang Mai

23. ATV Adventure

24. Chiang Mai by Bike - City & Local Food Tour

25. Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Chiang Mai Private Tour

26. Chiang Rai Day Tour from Chiang Mai + The Long Neck Hill Tribe With Boat

27. Top Pick - Full or Half Day @Elephant in Wild Sanctuary ChiangMai

28. Cooking Evening Class Chiang Mai Visit Organic Garden and Market

29. 6-Hour Hike and Bike in Doi Suthep Pui National Park Combo from Chiang Mai

30. Chiangmai 1 day package tour- Trekking, Waterfall & Tubing

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45 Absolute Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Home » Blog » Thailand » 45 Absolute Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

We’ve rounded up a list of the best things to do in Chiang Mai that will make your trip a memorable one. We have spent more than a year living in Chiang Mai, Thailand so we know this city inside and out! We’re sharing both top Chiang Mai attractions as well as local secrets you won’t find in the guidebooks. 

Surrounded by lush mountains and dotted with historic temples, Chiang Mai is the best hub for exploring northern Thailand. This city has a rare combination of adventure, nature, culture, history, food, and modern comforts ; a blend that makes it one of our favorite cities in the world.

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, we’ve got you covered with a huge list of fun things to do in Chiang Mai. And this isn’t just any list you’ll find online or in the guidebooks…

We’ve spent a lot of time in Chiang Mai. Like a LOT . We even called it home for a year, so we know this city really well. 

We’ve rounded up the top Chiang Mai attractions as well as our favorite off-the-beaten-path things to do in this city. And trust us, with this handy guide, you’ll never find yourself wondering what to do.

This guide is chock full of insider tips and hidden gems , so you’ll definitely want to bookmark this page or pin it for later! We genuinely hope this guide helps you as you plan your trip to Thailand (or fuels your wanderlust!).

Chiang Mai Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Chiang Mai, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

Things NOT to do in Chiang Mai

• How many days do you need?

Best time to visit Chiang Mai

• How to get there from the airport
• How to get around Chiang Mai

Tips for visiting Chiang Mai

Where to eat in chiang mai, where to stay in chiang mai, top things to do in chiang mai.

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Chiang Mai, here are our top recommendations. 

• Climb up “Sticky Waterfalls”
• Hike the Pilgrim’s Path to a temple in the jungle (Wat Pha Lat)
• See elephants in Chiang Mai the responsible way
• Paddle down river with a Bamboo Raft
• Go temple hopping
• Visit Doi Suthep Temple (Wat Phra That)
• Shop for souvenirs at one of Chiang Mai’s Night Markets 
• Take a Thai Cooking Class
• Try Khao Soi in Chiang Mai
• Explore Doi Inthanon National Park

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand. 

1. Climb up “Sticky Waterfalls”

Most waterfalls you think of are extremely slippery due to the massive build up of mossy rocks and fast moving water. The Bua Thong Waterfalls (also known as “Sticky Waterfalls”) are unique because they are fed by a spring rich in minerals.

Due to the mineral deposits in the water, the rocks have become porous and slightly spongy, allowing you to walk up them with bare feet (perfect for anyone with “wandering soles”—see what I did there!)

There are a couple sections to the tiered-waterfall, but our favorite was at the very bottom where the falls drop about thirty feet and you are able to climb around them. It’s a great way to cool down on a hot day! 

After you’re done playing the falls, head up the small set of stairs opposite of the falls which leads to the source of the spring. The spring itself is a deep hole filled with vibrant blue water. 

Read our complete guide to visiting Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Tong) for directions on how to get there and what to expect. 

Don’t want to do it on your own? This tour through Airbnb Experiences earns rave reviews and makes visiting easy!

2. Hike the Pilgrim’s Path to a temple in the jungle (Wat Pha Lat)

There are dozens of temples in Chiang Mai, but Wat Pha Lat is our favorite temple we’ve visited by far.

First, it is surrounded by the jungle, so it has a completely different feel than the temples within the Old City. Second, it can only be reached by hiking , which eliminates many tourists. The crowds at Wat Pha Lat are far fewer than at many of the other temples in Chiang Mai, so it feels really special.

After an easy 30 – 40-minute hike on the Pilgrim’s Path , you’ll be rewarded with bamboo forests, the sound of chirping birds, a trickling waterfall, and monks completing their daily chores. Allow yourself at least 30 minutes to wander around, take photos and enjoy this beautiful place. 

There is a small stand selling coffee and clean restrooms on the temple grounds. 

How to get to Wat Pha Lat Temple via the Pilgrim’s Path

Take a red truck to the D Condo Apartment building (30 baht from old city). Walk west towards the mountain and at the first intersection after D Condo, turn right and walk about 200 meters and turn left. You are now on Pilgrim’s Path road. 

Keep heading west towards the mountain until you see the trailhead and a motorbike parking area. This is where you will start your hike. It should take you about 30 minutes from the trailhead to reach Wat Pha Lat (1.5 km). 

Local Tip: Sometimes Google Maps falls short of details around Chiang Mai. The best app to find hiking trails around Doi Suthep mountain is Maps.Me. Download the app and then download Chiang Mai region.

3. See elephants in Chiang Mai the responsible way

Seeing an elephant up close is on pretty much everyone’s bucket list in Thailand. But before we delve into where to see elephants in Chiang Mai, we are going over some very important things to consider when you book your elephant experience. 

If you just skim this section over and don’t do much research, your actions can actually be very harmful to the elephants you just wanna cuddle.

Read this before you visit an Elephant “Sanctuary” in Thailand

Today, many travelers are educated about why you should not ride elephants, and instead decide to visit “elephant sanctuaries” while on vacation in Thailand. Although this is a great shift, there are some things you should know before you book just any “sanctuary”…

Here’s a little insight we’ve learned while living in Chiang Mai: As the demand for sanctuaries grows, there are unfortunately some places that are capitalizing on this and calling themselves “sanctuaries” without truly doing what’s right for the elephants. 

We’ve heard stories that after tourists leave, the way they treat their animals (and staff members) isn’t always great.

To be totally honest, the best thing you can do for elephants is to donate to reputable organizations without visiting them. I mean, think about it… It’s not natural for elephants to have the stimulation of people around them each day. Interacting with elephants is for our benefit, not theirs.

But we get it… seeing these beautiful creatures up close is a dream. It was for us, too. So if seeing elephants is a must for you, keep reading. We’re going over the best places to see these gentle giants in Thailand.

Best places to see elephants in Thailand

From our knowledge, Chiang Mai and the surrounding area probably has the best selection of actual sanctuaries in the country.

The positive thing about visiting a reputable elephant sanctuary is that the money you spend there will (mostly) go back to taking care of the elephants.

• I will say, however, that this is not an intimate experience. This is by far the most popular and well-known elephant sanctuary in Thailand, so it’s also one of the more busy ones.
• Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary : This is a lesser-known place we have heard from others that is ethically run and the elephants are returned to their natural habitat (and not fenced in). They provide a better life for the elephants and also work towards improving villages and alternate work for the mahouts.

Important Tip: The reputable places book up in advance – so plan ahead if seeing elephants is a must for you.

Our advice for you: We encourage you to do some research ahead of time and choose a place that is (hopefully) treating elephants well. And if you end up somewhere that is not ethically run, SPEAK UP. Tell their management of what you saw. Write a review online so others can be informed and decide if they want to support it.

On a related note: Thailand faces its fair share of negative impacts from tourism, and the exploitation of elephants is probably one of the most well-known of this country’s issues. If you’re interested in learning more about how you can travel more ethically in Thailand , we have a whole article devoted to this topic.

4. Paddle down river with a Bamboo Raft

Similar to river tubing, you can cool off on a hot day by floating on a bamboo raft!

Imagine floating on a rustic bamboo raft down a river that cuts through the jungle-y Thai countryside. While you’re less than an hour away from Chiang Mai, you’ll feel a world away from the city.

We have an entire bamboo rafting day-trip guide detailing everything you need to know like how to get there, how much it costs and what not to forget to bring!

5. Go temple hopping

Chiang Mai is Thailand’s epicenter of culture, and one of the best ways to really dive in is to visit some of the city’s best temples.

There are so many temples in Chiang Mai that you won’t have to wander far to find one (or five!). Some are small and seldom visited, while others are iconic must-see places for most visitors, and each has its own unique characteristics.

Below is a list of some temples to add to your Chiang Mai itinerary. 

Best temples to visit in Chiang Mai Old City

• Wat Phra Singh : This temple in the Old City is known for its striking gold exterior, and is well worth checking out.
• Wat Chedi Luang : Almost smack dab in the center of Chiang Mai’s Old City, Wat Chedi Luang is a sight to behold. It is one of the most famous temples within the Old City walls.
• Wat Sri Suphan : The most notable characteristic about this temple is its silver exterior. Located right beside the Saturday Night Market, it’s an easy temple to visit after picking up some souvenirs.
• Wat Phan Tao : This temple is made from teak wood and being that it is right next to the much more famous Wat Chedi Luang, this wooden complex is often overlooked. It is most notably the site where young monks release lanterns during the Yi Peng festival .
• Wat Chiang Man : Established in 1296 by King Mengrai, this ornate structure is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. 

Best temples to visit around Chiang Mai

• Wat Doi Suthep : Arguably the most iconic place in Chiang Mai, if you only visit one temple, make it this one. (See below for more info)
• Wat Pha Lat : Hidden in the jungle, this is our very favorite temple in all of Chiang Mai. The best way to get here is by hiking the Pilgrim’s Trail. (See #2 for more info)
• Wat Suan Dok Temple : Situated about 1 km west of the Old City’s West Gate, this temple has a hauntingly beautiful mausoleum garden which is the resting place of many past leaders. This is also a great temple for doing a Monk Chat (explained above).
• Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham : Located outside of the city walls, this temple is situated in a forested area and is known for its underground tunnels.
• Wat Chet Yot Phra Aram Luang : Located outside of the Old City, this temple is situated near the Super Highway and is less visited than those within the city walls.
• Wat Phra That Doi Kham : Known for a Buddha that stands 17 meters tall, this temple is perched on a hilltop to the southwest of the city and is more popular with Thai visitors than foreigners.

Fun Fact: The word wat refers to a Buddhist temple or monastery in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. The most iconic example of this is Cambodia’s famed Angkor Wat , which was originally built as a Hindu temple, but was transformed to a Buddhist complex in the 12th century.

6. Visit Doi Suthep Temple (Wat Phra That)

The temple on Doi Suthep gets its own section because it is by far the most iconic temple in all of Chiang Mai.

Someone told us once that if you haven’t visited Doi Suthep, then you haven’t visited Chiang Mai. Now, we don’t fully believe that, because one place can’t simply make a city. But after finally visiting Doi Suthep, I can’t believe it took us so long!

This is one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand. Plus, you’ll also have a pretty great view of the city if the skies are clear. 

Tip: Try to go early in the morning, as it can get very, very busy.

How to get to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Take a red truck from anywhere in the city and kindly ask them to go to Doi Suthep. It should be about 60 baht per person. The ride will take about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic up the winding hill. 

Or you can take the 2-3 hour hike to the top and be sure to stop at Wat Pha Lat along the way (see #2 on this list for more info).

7. Shop for souvenirs at one of Chiang Mai’s Night Markets 

You can find night markets all over Asia, and we’re obsessed. You’ll typically find inexpensive souvenirs, local street food, and a lively atmosphere.

Chiang Mai has some incredible—albeit crowded—night markets. Depending on which days you’re visiting, you can visit a couple and compare!

• Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: Open every night of the week, vendors line the street on Chang Klan Road selling every souvenir you can imagine from t-shirts to stuffed elephants to pillow cases to jewelry.
• Saturday Night Market: Starting from the Old Pagoda by the South Gate and stretching down the Wua Lai Road, this is another souvenir market.
• Sunday Night Market: Tha Phae Gate is where this market starts and the vendors and crowds pack down Rachadamnoen Road into the old city. There are plenty of food stalls and vendors selling anything and everything.

Insider Tip: You can find smaller (less crowded) night markets near Maya Mall and near Chiang Mai University (Malin Market).

8. Take a Thai Cooking Class

If you’ve been following our blog for a while, you know that we LOVE to eat . Anything and everything. No exaggeration.

And you probably also know that we are constantly raving about taking cooking classes in other countries . We’re up to 12 now. We wholeheartedly believe that there are few ways to learn more about a culture than through its cuisine. 

And when it comes to Thai food , there is no better place to learn how to make your favorite dishes than Chiang Mai. The tricky part is choosing a cooking school, as the options are plentiful.

In our research, we found 3 cooking schools that are clear winners:

• Thai Farm Cooking School
• Secret Thai Cooking School
• Sammy’s Organic Thai Cooking School

Psst! When you’re booking be sure to check out Cookly website where they compare cooking schools and sometimes have cheaper prices.

They all have a 3 things in common:

• They bring you to a local market instead of the one ridden with tourists in the Old City.
• Each person is able to make 5 dishes that they have selected.
• All 3 of these cooking schools take place on an organic farm from which you can gather your own produce and herbs.

Secret Thai Cooking Class

We chose Secret Thai Cooking School and were incredibly impressed . 

Our teacher, May, gave everyone in our class of 11 individualized attention as she taught us how to make dishes from a menu we created—not the case at many cooking schools! (Ben and I love to try everything, so we each choose different dishes so we’d be able to try 10 separate meals. Best idea ever!)

We were able to pick our own vegetables in the onsite garden, and had our own gas stove and cooking station in our host’s home. Additionally, we learned how to make our own coconut milk the traditional way and received a cookbook that was made especially for us with our own photos inside.

Tip: If you are visiting in November during the Loi Krathong festival , you might be lucky enough to make your very own krathong in your cooking class, which you can float down the river alongside locals in the evening. Book ahead because classes during this season fill up quickly.

9. Try Khao Soi in Chiang Mai

Unlike Pad Thai and Green Curry, this Thai dish is not very well-known in the Western world, but it should be!

With a Burmese influence, Khao Soi is most commonly found in the north of Thailand ; and Chiang Mai is a perfect place to try your first bite.

I’d like to think that Khao Soi would be the love child if chicken noodle soup and yellow curry ever got together. A combination of egg noodles, coconut curry broth, chicken, shallots, lime and chilies make each bite of this dish a party in your mouth! It is typically topped with crunchy fried egg noodles and served pickled vegetables on the side for a flavor and texture explosion.

Where to get the best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai

The best place to eat Khao Soi is in unassuming mom-and-pop shops . We sampled several bowls, and each has their own unique flavors. 

Traditionally, Khao Soi is eaten in the morning and afternoon, so many Khao Soi street stands will close before dinner time. You’ll still be able to find it on the menus of many restaurants. 

If you’re looking for recommendations, here are some restaurants that serve up some of the best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai:

• Khao Soi Mae Sai : this is a hot spot among locals and is not far from the Nimman neighborhood. This is our favorite spot for Khao Soi!
• While we thought it was good, we didn’t think it lived up to the hype as we’ve had better Khao Soi elsewhere (but try it out, it might be your favorite!). Their Khao Soi has a broth that is a bit thicker and spicier than most, but I was a little disappointed that it comes with pieces of chicken instead of a whole leg, and the crunchy noodles on top weren’t as fresh as some other places.
• Khao Soi Nimman : a decent choice in the Nimman Road area with many different choices. Broth is on the sweet side and prices are a bit higher than most Khao Soi.
• Khao Soi Arak : located in the Old City and known for serving a killer bowl of Kaho Soi. Plus the couple who owns this tiny restaurant is lovely. At just 30 baht, you can’t go wrong!

Looking for vegetarian Khao Soi? Try it at Aum or Pun Pun . These are two good choices to try vegetarian versions of Khao Soi, allowing you to give this famous dish a try even if you don’t eat meat. 

10. Explore Doi Inthanon National Park

Just under 2 hours away from the city, Doi Inthanon National Park is a great place for getting some fresh mountain air, going hiking, and seeing some of the most iconic pagodas in the north of Thailand.

Oh, and Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in all of Thailand! (Save that knowledge bomb for your next trivia night!)

Things to do in Doi Inthanon National Park

• Hike the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: The trail itself is not very difficult or steep, but it offers sweeping views of the mountains and landscapes below. It is required that you hire a guide on this trail, which provides a job for a local. The guides are at the trailhead and you can simply show up. It costs 200 baht for a group (maximum 10 people), and should take roughly 2 hours.
• Visit the twin pagodas: Without a doubt the most iconic sight in this national park, the two pagodas — also known as the Queen and King Pagodas — are a must-see when you’re visiting the national park. They house some historic relics and are great spots for photo opportunities.
• Go waterfall hopping: The national park is home to a handful of waterfalls, and if you have the time, see as many as possible. But if you’re on a tight schedule, we think Mae Ya Waterfall (just south of the park) is the most impressive, and makes a great stop on your way back to Chiang Mai. (pictured below)
• Eat a local meal: If you feel your tummy rumbling and you haven’t packed enough snacks, there is a small restaurant right by the Kew Mae Pan trailhead that serves up cheap, local and tasty dishes! We got some crispy fried chicken, sticky rice, and noodle soup, all for 150 baht (less than $5 USD).

Good to know: It costs 300 baht for foreigners to enter Doi Inthanon National Park.

How to get to Doi Inthanon National Park

From Chiang Mai, you can hire a driver for the day (either a red truck or a car). This will be the most comfortable option, but also the most expensive. 

If you are an experienced motorbike driver, you can drive yourself (this is what we did). But be prepared for a rather long drive.

11. Take an adventurous day trip to Lampang’s “Floating Pagodas” (Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat)

If you are up for a full day of adventuring off the beaten path , we have just the idea for you…

The town of Lampang is not on most Western tourists’ radar , but it is home to one of the most magical sites in northern Thailand. 

The “floating” white pagodas perched in the cliffs outside of Lampang is a hidden gem that most visitors will never see. And if you make the journey there, it will likely be a highlight of your time in Thailand. 

Known as Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat, these pagodas are not only undeniably beautiful, but they still very much feel like a hidden gem. 

Now we have some good news and some bad news. The bad news is it can be quite a long and somewhat tricky journey to get to these pagodas. But the good news is we have you totally covered with an in-depth guide to Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat that goes over exactly how to get there and how to make it an epic road trip! 

12. Relax at Huay Kaew Waterfall and swimming hole

Not far from the Nimman neighborhood, Huay Kaew Waterfall is hidden in the jungle, and few travelers know it exists. A visit to these little-known waterfalls is a good way to escape the city and find some solitude. When we went, we only crossed paths with a handful of people.

Unlike Sticky Waterfalls (see #1 on the list), you can’t climb on the actual falls, but if you stick to the side path you’ll make it to a swimming hole, complete with a rope swing! Keep going up the path and you’ll find more and more small pools to hang out in.

On a hot day, this is a great place to bring a picnic and relax. Check out our hike to Huay Kaew Waterfall video on YouTube. 

Responsible Travel Tip: If you bring food, please, PLEASE carry out your trash and bring a bag to collect any rubbish you find along the way.

How to get to Huay Kaew Waterfalls

It is really simple to get to the Huay Kaew Waterfalls. From the old city you can take a red truck to the Chiang Mai Zoo (30 baht per person). Starting from the entrance of the Chiang Mai Zoo, walk west toward the mountain. 

You can take the mountain road uphill until you see the official entrance, or walk our favorite way through a local street to the left just as the road begins to go uphill. Stroll through this tiny neighborhood with a stream passing through the middle and walk to the end of the street. There will be a small foot path that leads uphill slightly and will take you to the waterfall. 

Related: Some of the best waterfalls in Thailand are north of Chiang Mai in a town called Pai. Check out our detailed guide to Pai, Thailand for more information.

13. Go hiking around Chiang Mai

If you love the outdoors, but you don’t want to hike solo, we’ve got a perfect solution for you! 

There is a hiking club in Chiang Mai that meets every Saturday (as well as some weekdays) to go hiking in the jungle surrounding the city. Some days the hikes are short and for beginners, while other times they are full-day expeditions and lead to hill tribe villages in the mountains. 

Check out the hiking club’s Facebook page, Doi Suthep Walkers , for details and upcoming hikes. These weekly meet-ups are typically on Saturday mornings at 7:30 a.m. sharp. 

Note: This group is great, but the crowd tends to get large, especially for the shorter hikes. The hikes we have been on have had about 50 people going up the mountain. The people who join are really fun and are typically foreigners living in Chiang Mai long-term, with a few travelers sprinkled in.

If you are excited to meet new people and get outside the city, this is a fun (FREE) option for you, but do know that the group is not small.

Alternative: Guided hiking

If you’re visiting Chiang Mai and aren’t able to coincide with the hiking group, this highly-rated guided hike on Airbnb Experiences is a great way to be able to explore the countryside with a local.

You’ll trek through the jungle trails (which can be difficult to follow if you don’t know where you’re going), and you’ll have lunch in a beautiful Hmong village called Khun Chang Khian. We visited this village with the hiking group, and it is an amazing place to see, and feels very much like a hidden gem.

14. Hang out at this secret (Mok Fa Waterfall)

If you love waterfalls, we’ve already got a few on this list for you to check out. But if you’re looking for an adventure to a secret waterfall, we gotchu covered. 

Mok Fa Waterfall is a bit outside of the city, and feels like a hidden oasis. This tall and majestic waterfall is beautiful and lacks the crowds of some of the other more accessible or popular falls in the area. 

We arrived around 9 a.m. and were the only ones there for a while. There’s a sandy area and a nice pool for swimming right by the falls, a lush jungle and cave, as well as some smaller pools further out. Bring some snacks and find a sunny patch to have a little picnic.

How to get to Mok Fa Waterfall

Getting to Mok Fa is an adventure in itself because it’s not really near anything else. If you’re confident driving a motorbike, that’s the cheapest way to get here.

Otherwise, you can hire a songthaew or a Grab for the roughly 1-hour drive. Just put the location into Google Maps , and you shouldn’t have any trouble getting there. Once you’ve parked, the waterfall is just a short walk away.

Cost: 200 baht entrance fee for foreign adults to enter, plus 20 baht to park a motorbike.

15. Enjoy a drink with a view at a rooftop bar

Whenever we’re in search of a good view, we head to a rooftop bar!

Unlike some of the popular rooftop bars in Bangkok , which are seriously overpriced (in our opinion), you can make a toast above Chiang Mai at a reasonable price. That said, don’t expect to be 40 stories up like you would in Bangkok.

Best rooftop bars in Chiang Mai

• Hotel YaYee : Hand-crafted cocktails and panoramic views… what more could you want?!
• Rise Rooftop Bar at Akyra Manor : Lounge beside their rooftop pool with a fancy cocktail in hand. They have 2-for-1 drinks for their happy hour special from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Enjoy the views as the sun sets behind Doi Suthep.
• Xanadu Rooftop and Restaurant : This classy rooftop is on the 17th floor in the Furama Hotel. You can get great views of Nimman and Doi Suthep as you order a meal and drinks.
• Oasis Rooftop Garden Bar : Tucked away in the northeast corner of the Old City, Oasis presents a relaxed vibe and a nice place to meet up with friends.

16. Get a Thai massage

Traveling to Thailand without indulging in a Thai massage (or seven!) would be crazy. 

Unless you’re like my mom, who doesn’t like massages in the slightest, I would highly recommend getting a massage in Chiang Mai. And when you can find hour-long massages for $6 USD, why not get a few?!

You won’t have to wander far before you hear “massage, massage” being called after you. (You can’t blame them for trying to advertise for free!) Our advice would be not to go for the first place you see. There are plenty of amazing massage places around Chiang Mai, but there are just as many (if not more!) sub-par establishments.

Where to get the best Thai massage in Chiang Mai

We’ve read lots of reviews on Google, talked to many friends about their favorite places, and done some “research” ourselves. Here are just a handful of good options to start with:

• Ziam Spa & Massage
• Sense Massage
• Green Bamboo Massage
• Orn Healing Hands
• Nimman House Massage
• The Artist Spa

While most of the massage places listed above are very budget-friendly, there are certainly higher-end massage parlors where the prices (and facilities) will be closer to what you’d pay in Western countries. You’ll have to do a little comparison to decide what’s best for your budget. 

Good to know: At some of the cheaper places, you may be in a communal room with other guests.

What do you wear to a massage in Thailand? 

In most massage parlors in Chiang Mai, you will be given clothes to change into. They are typically baggy cotton one-size-fits-all pants and a shirt. 

For some treatments—like an oil massage, for instance—you will be given disposable underwear and will be nude.

Good to know: Traditional Thai massages involve a lot of cracking and stretching, and can leave some people sore. If you don’t think you’ll like this “hands on” massage, try a “Neck, Back and Shoulder Massage” or a foot massage instead. They are quite a bit tamer.

Pssst! Check out this detailed article describing where to find the best massages in Chiang Mai . The author tried 30 different massage places in the city and ranked her favorites. 

Unique experience: Get massaged by a prison inmate

If you’re picturing laying in an 8-by-8 concrete cell with bars, getting rubbed down by a surly woman clad in orange, you’re sorely mistaken. My masseuse was sweet and giggly, and looked more like a pigtailed schoolgirl than a convict.

So, here’s the question everyone is wondering… What are the women in prison for? Could you potentially be massaged by a serial killer? 

No, silly! Most of the women are serving short sentences for minor crimes. The Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institution has created a program to give its inmates the opportunity to learn marketable skills. The women are also allowed to save their wages and tips for their release date.

There are three options for massages:

• 1-hour foot massage
• 1-hour Thai massage
• 2-hour Thai massage

We chose a 1-hour Thai massage and were led into a big, dimly-lit room with nearly 20 beds on which people were getting cracked, rubbed and stretched.  The air was filled with the strong scent of menthol and eucalyptus… Mmmm, Tiger Balm.

The only thing that distinguished this establishment from the hundreds of other massage joints in the area were the women wearing police uniforms that paced the room every once in a while with clipboards in hand.

On TripAdvisor , many people rave that they received “ the BEST massage in Thailand ”, and Ben said his was fantastic. Mine, on the other hand, was mediocre. I’ve had better, and probably have had worse… but still, I felt good contributing to this organization that enables women to create a better life for themselves.

Responsible travel note: If you decide to get a massage, remember that this isn’t a tourist attraction to be gawked at. These women are trying to make a better life for themselves, and by visiting you are helping contribute to their self-improvement, but it’s not a place to leer rudely or take pictures of your masseuse.

Our advice is to arrive early. We got there just after 10 in the morning, and weren’t able to get on the schedule until 2:45 p.m. Arrive much later than we did, and you’ll be outta luck!

Also on the premises is a souvenir shop and a reasonably priced restaurant serving Thai and Western dishes as well as a coffee and fruit shakes.

Hours: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; weekends from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

17. Sample as many Northern Thai dishes as possible

While Khao Soi is our favorite northern Thai dish (see #8 above!), it’s far from the only meal you should try in Chiang Mai.

Many Thai restaurants in Western countries have a focus on Thai dishes from the south of the country, so there are many dishes you’ve likely never heard of. And they can be hard to find in other regions of Thailand (or the rest of the world), so be sure to eat up while you’re in the north of the country!

Below you’ll find a list of more Northern Thai dishes to try during your time in Chiang Mai:

• Sai Oua (northern Thai sausage): This pork sausage has a unique taste that’s all its own. The meat is seasoned with fresh Thai herbs and spices like turmeric, kaffir lime leaves, garlic, lemongrass, coriander, shallots, galangal, and chillies. It is an explosion of flavors!
• Laab (spicy salad): This spicy minced meat “salad” is usually served with parboiled veggies and cabbage or lettuce leaves. You can eat it like a lettuce wrap, or as a “dip” for the vegetable sticks. 
• Khao Niaw (aka sticky rice): Sticky rice is a much more common side dish in northern Thailand than in other regions.
• Nám prík nùm (green chili dip): This is a green chili dip made from a mashed combination of long green chilies, shallots and garlic. This spicy paste is often served with parboiled veggies like carrots and green beans, cucumber slices, cabbage, and deep-fried pork cracklings.

18. Chat with a Monk

You will spot the iconic saffron robes everywhere you venture in Thailand, but in Chiang Mai you can have the rare opportunity to go beyond gawking and get personal with a monk .There are 5 temples with “Monk Chat” programs in the city, but we chose to visit Wat Suan Dok Temple due to its proximity to town.

We spent an hour asking the monks questions about daily life and anything else that popped into our minds. They were incredibly open and willing to talk.

I only wished we had thought more about what we would ask them ahead of time because after we left I started coming up with many more questions on some of the hot topics in today’s society… What is the Buddhist stance on gay marriage? Guns? Refugees? ISIS? If you have the chance to ask any of these questions, I’d love to know the answers!

How to do a Monk Chat: It’s super easy. At Wat Suan Dok , just show up between 5-7 p.m. on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday. You will sign in with your name and nationality and be assigned to a monk. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing that covers your shoulders and everything above your knees.

19. Celebrate Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Chiang Mai during the month of November , you can observe the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals, which take place around the same time. The date changes each year due to the lunar calendar, so do you research.

Also, book your accommodation well in advance. We were without a bed for one night because it seemed like the entire city had “no vacancy” signs. (Our amazing hostel saved the day and set up a mat on their porch – they called it a “jungle bungalow” – so we didn’t have to sleep on the streets.)

More Info: Here’s a detailed article on activities during Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festival that will help you make the most of this celebration. 

20. Take a day trip to Chiang Rai to visit the temples

Chiang Rai is located in the far northeast and is well worth a visit during your trip to Thailand.

Most famous for Wat Rong Khun – aka “the White Temple” – there is lots more to Chiang Rai than seeing this single landmark. Though I will say it is truly breathtaking and worth the hype.

A roughly 3 hours apart, getting to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai isn’t a quick affair. That said, it is totally possible to visit as an already-planned-for-you day trip.

This tour earns rave reviews and makes a couple of stops along the way, making it possible to see Chiang Rai and return back to your hotel in Chiang Mai in the evening.

…or take an extended trip to Chiang Rai

Personally, we’d recommend spending at least one night in Chiang Rai if you have the time, as getting there from Chiang Mai is no quick trip. Expect the drive to take 3 hours each way , meaning you’ll be in transport for 6 hours if you attempt this as a day trip. 

If it were us, we’d skip the day tour and do it on our own to have more time to explore and less time in a car.

• Getting there: Buses are frequent and cheap starting around 250 baht ($7) one way; book a bus through 12Go to make sure you get the time you want
• Where to stay: This glamping resort looks incredible! We know someone who stayed here and absolutely loved it!
• Dear Friends Bistro : breakfast and cafe fare
• Kunda Vegan Burger Cafe : amazing vegan food
• Barrab : Northern Thai eats
• Khao Soi Restaurant : While there are other things on the menu here, definitely stick to their specialty – Khao Soi

21. Meditate with monks

Some people come to Thailand for the adventure while others come to get in touch with their spiritual side. If you’re interested in the latter (or want a healthy mix of both!) you might want to consider fitting in some time to slow down and quiet your mind.

Whether you’re totally new to meditation or have been practicing for years, there are meditation centers in Chiang Mai (and all around Thailand, for that matter) for all levels.

Here are some meditation centers in Chiang Mai:

• Wat Ram Poeng
• Wat Suan Dok
• Body and mind healing

Personal Note: While we haven’t done any of these meditations in Chiang Mai, we stayed at a monastery in northern Thailand (between Kai and Mae Hong Son) where we meditated for 3 days (pictured above). It was an incredible experience, and we’ve written all about it .

If you have extra time in your Thailand itinerary, we’d highly recommend making it here. But if time is tight, one of the meditation centers in Chiang Mai here (or listed above) will be a good alternative. 

22. Go on a food tour

If you’re a serious foodie, going on a food tour in Chiang Mai will be a perfect way to sample the best dishes the city has to offer at spots chosen by locals. 

We’ve eaten our way around Chiang Mai quite a bit over our many visits (and time spent living there). But on our most recent trip to Chiang Mai, we decided to book a food tour for ourselves and two of our friends who have called the city home for 6+ years. 

Even though we’ve spent a lot of time in Thailand and our friends have been there even longer, we all tried dishes on this tour that we had never heard of before, which was kind of surprising. Also, we all learned even more about Thai cuisine and culture from our local guide.

We loved squeezing into the tiny mom-and-pop shops that we never would have found on our own and exploring a local market where there were hardly any other tourists in sight. We only wish we had done this experience sooner!

There are lots of food tours to choose from in Chiang Mai. Here are our top recommendations:

With Locals: This is the tour we personally did. We chose it mainly because they can cater to dietary needs. Our friends are vegetarian, and they were able to adjust the stops accordingly. It is also one of the most budget-friendly tours, and we had a great experience.

Evening Street Food Tour : This 2.5-hour tour takes place after the sun has set and brings you to street stands for some of the best flavors you’ll have in the city.

Northern Flavors Food Tour: This food tour through Airbnb Experiences is a crowd favorite, and includes 15 different tastings over 4 hours. Good to know: It’s not suitable for those who don’t eat meat. 

If you squeeze a food tour into your itinerary just be sure to come with a (very) empty stomach and pencil in some time afterwards to relax because the chances of a “food coma” are high!

Really love food? Taking a food tour was also one of our favorite things we did in Bangkok ! If you like foodie experiences, I don’t think it’s overkill to do one in each city, as they are very different and focus on different dishes and ingredients.

23. Eat on the street!

If you like street food, you’ll love Chiang Mai! While street food is easy to find basically anywhere in Thailand, you’ll find the most options at the night markets and around the gates of the Old City walls.

You’ll find everything from super cheap pad thai being cooked in a gigantic wok to grilled meat skewers to noodle soups. If you’re traveling with a partner, order a few different dishes so you can sample them all!

Listen up! Don’t miss the famous Cowboy Hat Lady featured on Anthony Bourdain’s show Parts Unknown. She serves up a damn good Khao Kha Mo (Thai-style stewed pork leg).

Her stall is located near the north gate of the old city at the Chang Phuek Market . The pork and rice dish can be served in a small size (40 baht) or a large size (50 baht) and it literally melts in your mouth.

Insider Tip: We don’t like fatty pieces of meat, so we order ours “mai ow nang” which means without skin and fat.

24. Have a local plan your Chiang Mai itinerary

Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of things to do in Chiang Mai? We know the feeling (and we’re not even halfway through this list yet!). Wouldn’t it be great if you could have someone plan your itinerary for you!? Well, your wish is about to come true…

ViaHero is a really cool company that connects travelers with locals in the place they’re visiting. You tell the local what kinds of things you are interested in and what you really want to do and see on your trip. And they’ll put together a customized itinerary just for you.

Insider Tip: Our advice would be to ask them to include lots of cultural experiences and food spots on your itinerary, because who better to get tips from than a local?!

Not only are you providing a valuable job for someone in the community, but you will get a complete itinerary for your trip to Chiang Mai that is totally tailored to your interests. Follow their advice and get off the beaten path for an authentic and memorable trip! 

25. Explore Chiang Mai’s local markets

Chiang Mai has a market in what seems like every corner of the city. Whether you’re looking for elephant pants and other souvenirs, hoping to pick up some fresh fruits, or you’re wanting to be surrounded by locals, there is a market for you!

Discovering local favorites is one of the best parts of travel. Get more tips on where to go and what to do from locals in Thailand when you use ViaHero to plan a personalized itinerary.

Local “Everything” Market

• Warorot Market (Kad Luang): This is where many locals shop for clothes or home goods. It’s cheaper than the tourist markets but is only open during the day.

Organic Produce Market

• Jing Jai Market : Here you’ll find cute coffee shops and stores, but the main reason to visit Jing Jai is for their organic produce market every Wednesday and Saturday morning. There are also vendors selling crafts and food, as well as live music and caricature artists!

Artsy Market

• Bor Sang (Umbrella Village) Market : A little outside of Chiang Mai, this market is famous for its handicrafts and popular decorated umbrellas. Go here for a color explosion.

Our Favorite Market

• Malin Market : This is our favorite market to get dinner and do some shopping. If you are over by Chiang Mai University, pop over to Malin Night Market. There are artists selling jewelry and clothes stalls with cheap price tags (not souvenir-type items). The food court is great too! You won’t find many foreigners here – mainly Thai university students.

Responsible Travel Tip: When shopping at Chiang Mai’s many markets, don’t forget to bring your own reusable bag and turn down plastic ones whenever possible. Check out this article for more eco-friendly travel gear !

Psst! We didn’t forget about the famous Chiang Mai Night Markets! (See #7 for more info!)

26. Eat ALL the tropical fruits!

My name is Katie, and I am fruit-a-holic. (Anyone else with me?!) If you’re nodding your head you’re in luck because Chiang Mai is heaven for tropical fruit-lovers.

Visit the local markets and you’ll see all sorts of colorful fruits you’ve likely never seen before. I made it my mission to search for unfamiliar fruits and buy them. Fresh produce is really cheap in Thailand (from the local markets), so there’s really no risk!

It would be nearly impossible to list all the fruits you’ll find in Chiang Mai, but here are some of my favorites that you should definitely try:

• Mangosteen (my absolute favorite!)
• Plum Mangos
• Custard Apple
• Dragonfruit
• Small Bananas

Oh, and while they’re probably not unfamiliar, if you like papaya, pineapple and mangos, be sure to try a few while in Thailand, as they’re likely more fresh and delicious than the imported ones we get in Western countries.

Feeling adventurous? Try durian. Some people love it (it has a cult following), and others — myself included — hate it. I consider myself someone who likes pretty much all foods (except ketchup, and now durian). I can’t even stand the smell. But give it a taste and let me know what you think!

Good to know: You can also find a lot of these fruits in Hawaii , which was a nice surprise on a recent trip! I felt like I could indulge in some of my favorite tropical fruits without the price tag of a flight to Asia! Though the same fruits in Hawaii are much more expensive than they are in Thailand.

27. Get soaked at Songkran celebrations

Songkran, or Thai New Year, is celebrated in April. (The exact date changes, as it follows the lunar calendar.)

If you’re planning to visit Chiang Mai for Songkran, get ready for a festival you’ll never forget! 

Songkran lasts for 3 days, and the whole city plays along. Everyone carries water guns and buckets, and there is no way you can walk down a street without getting wet.

As long as you’ve got your phone protected , you’re in for an incredible time. 

Families will drive down the street with the bed of their pickup truck lined with plastic and filled with water, creating a makeshift “pool”. Kids or teenagers sitting in the back will find every opportunity to douse passersby with buckets of water.

Music plays on every block and spontaneous dance parties will break out on the streets, and everyone — tourists and locals — come together with smiles on their faces. We’ve never really witnessed a celebration like it.

Good to know: One thing to look out for is that some of the water being thrown as you walk through the streets is from the moat that surrounds the Old City. Close your mouth and be sure not to swallow it. Also, be sure to shower once you get back to your hotel, as the water in the moat can be filled with bacteria. I hope that little health tip doesn’t scare you away, because it is seriously such a fun celebration!

28. Splash around at the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon

We’ve visited the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon twice before — once in 2015 and again in 2019 — and boy oh boy has it changed! What used to be a sort of hidden secret is now super built up, and it’s certainly not off-the-beaten-path anymore.

Back in the day (aka 2015 and before), this old quarry was a haven for backpackers looking for an adventurous and cheap way to spend the day. There was one small cafe onsite and it cost 50 baht ($1.60 USD) to enter, and this fee included a complimentary drink.

From there, you were on your own. Locals hung out and dove off cliffs — some as tall as 15 meters (50 feet). There were a couple of rickety bamboo rafts to float on, and that was pretty much it.

Today, things have changed quite a bit. For one, the entrance fee is now 650 baht ( $21 USD) — that’s a huge price increase! But an even bigger difference is how built up it is. What was once a simple, no-frills quarry is now basically a waterpark with tons of inflatables.

It is now known as the Grand Canyon Water Park. 

The changes haven’t been all bad. Honestly, the Grand Canyon was pretty dangerous before it was built up (there were a few cliff jumping deaths). Now, there are lifeguards and cliff jumping is only allowed in designated areas.

The quarry is filled with inflatables (think a Ninja Warrior type obstacle course!), and if you want to channel your inner child for a day and get out of the heat , you’ll have a great time. We visited the Grand Canyon on my birthday and had a really fun time just acting like kids.

But I will say, it is a lot more TIRING than it looks! (Do I sound like a grandma?!) After about 2 hours, we were ready to go back to town. Also, we think it would have been more fun with a group of friends. So factor that in to determine if the cost will be worthwhile for you.

How to visit the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon

Just a 30-minute drive from town, a trip to Grand Canyon Water Park will allow you to escape the city and soak up some rays. 

Get there by motorbike (an easy drive) or by tuk tuk/songathew (red pickup truck). Split the fare with other travelers to make it more affordable. You can also order a Grab (rideshare) to bring you there.

Entrance fee: 650 baht for adults (~$22 USD)

Don’t want to pay a huge entrance fee? Not into the inflatables?

Listen up because there is an alternative…

Instead of navigating to the “main” Grand Canyon entrance, you will go to Grand Canyon Gamnanboon. There will probably be a parking attendant trying to get you to come here instead of the bigger one, so just park as soon as you see them flagging you down.

The entrance fee here is just 100 baht ($3.20 USD), and you can hang out on the floating dock, use kayaks or jump off the designated platforms. There is also a small onsite restaurant selling food and drinks.

29. Have a pool day

If you’re craving a day relaxing in the sun, head to one of the many pools in Chiang Mai. Oh, and don’t forget your sunscreen!

If you’re really smart, you can plan ahead and book a hotel with a nice pool. But if your accommodation is pool-free, here are a few options that are open to the public:

• RISE Rooftop at the Akyra Hotel: This combination rooftop bar and pool is open to the public from 6 – 11:30 p.m. nightly. All you need to do is buy a drink to use the facilities. 
• Green Hill Apartments : Lay out by these two massive pools all day for only 80 baht per person. If you get hungry, they also have a restaurant on-site.
• Center of the Universe : Located just north of the Nimman area, this salt water pool (less chemicals, yay!) is 200 baht for an all day pass.
• Ozone Roof Bar at the Cross Hotel: Private cabanas and poolside sunbeds make this the perfect place to catch some rays. Plus the rooftop views can’t be beat!
• Looper : Boasting a lap pool, an onsen, a cold plunge, and a Thai style herbal “sauna”, this could be a good place to come for a little self care time. There’s also an onsite cafe that serves some really good drinks. You can pay a basic entrance fee for 200 baht or 250 baht which includes a drink. 

30. Embrace the cafe culture

Chiang Mai is home to thousands of digital nomads , which means there are coffee shops on every corner. 

And we’re not just talking about your run-of-the-mill Starbucks. In Chiang Mai, you’ll find super interesting and quirky cafes all around the city, like ones with ball pits and cotton candy lattes! 

Here are a few to put on your list if you love coffee shops:

• We like the Ristr8o Lab location because it’s in a more peaceful setting than the one right on Nimman Road.
• Artisan Cafe : South of the Old City, this is one of the prettiest cafes in Chiang Mai. Hang out in the a/c to get some work done or just come in for a drink to marvel at the decor.  
• Chaseki Teahouse : With chic decor and decadent drinks, how can you go wrong?!
• Akha Ama Coffee : With a couple of locations in town (one in the Old City), Akha Ama is known for serving up some of the best coffee in town.
• My Secret Cafe in Town : This coffee shop doubles as a vegan cafe and is a nice place to rest your legs while exploring the Old City.
• Free Bird Cafe : This entirely vegan cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating. And the best part: they donate profits to support Northern Thai and Burmese hill tribes. This is a laptop-free cafe, so don’t expect to get any work done here!
• The Larder : Deliciously good coffee and an epic brunch menu in the heart of Nimman. 
• Cool Cat Cafe : The themed cafes that are popular in Tokyo have made their way to Chiang Mai! Cuddle friendly felines while sipping a specialty drink.

31. Catch sunrise at the Huay Tung Tao Reservoir

Huay Tung Tao Lake is a place many foreign tourists never visit. In fact, we didn’t hear about it until our third time in Chiang Mai. This lake is a popular place for locals and expats to go for morning runs and hiking in the surrounding trails.

If you’re feeling up to it, we’d recommend hiking while you’re at the lake. The hike to Taab Mook Waterfall is quite easy and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful sight!

Have lunch at a floating restaurant

At lunchtime, people come to eat in one of the many floating restaurants around the lake. While the food isn’t anything spectacular and it’s a bit pricier than you’d pay in the city, it’s a unique dining experience .

The restaurants seem to be more or less the same, and they charge a per person fee to eat in the bungalows over the water. The restaurant we ate at charged 20 baht per person for the lakeside tables, while the ones a few meters back on land were free. Also, they only take cash.

How to get to the Huay Tung Tao Reservoir

Traveling by motorbike would be your best option to get to the Huay Tung Tao Reservoir . From the Old City, travel west on Huay Kaew Road and turn right on Highway 127. Travel north for about 4 km and then turn left when you see signs for the lake. If you come to Highway 107, you have gone too far. 

You could also order a Grab car (Asia’s version of Uber), but as we experienced it was easy to get there but very difficult to find a driver to take us back to the city. 

Another way to get there would be to talk to a songthaew (red truck) driver and negotiate a price. You would probably play about 100 baht per person and you would need at least 4-6 people. 

Cost: There is a 50 baht entrance fee for foreigners. If you enter before 7 a.m., it is free.

32. Practice yoga

If you’re stiff from a long plane ride, Chiang Mai is the perfect place to get your downward dog on! With plenty of yoga studios throughout the city, you’ll have no trouble finding a class. 

Free yoga in Chiang Mai

If you’re on a budget, you might want to try one of the free yoga classes offered daily in Chiang Mai.

• Nong Buak Hard Park: Free classes daily from 9 – 10:15 a.m. If you don’t have your own mat, you can rent a straw mat for 15 baht. Join the Yoga in the Park – Chiang Mai Facebook group for more info.
• One Nimman: Every Tuesday (Hatha) and Thursday (Hatha Vinyasa), there are free yoga classes at One Nimman from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. They also offer free Swing Dance and Salsa lessons throughout the week. This article has more information . (It is in Thai, but you can have Google translate it.)

Yoga studios in Chiang Mai

If you’d prefer to practice your inversions within the walls of a studio, there are plenty to choose from. Most classes are quite affordable, usually starting at 200 baht. If you purchase multiple sessions up front, the price per class will be cheaper.

• Ananda Yoga : There are two locations within Chiang Mai (Jing Jai Market and Nimman). We had a membership at the Nimman studio and really loved the classes. We always felt challenged and got a good workout.
• Freedom Yoga : One of the most popular studios in Chiang Mai, this studio is located in the southwest corner of Old City.
• Om Ganesha Yoga : A studio in Nimman offering multiple classes daily for different skill levels. They offer Vinyasa, power, Ashtanga and Hatha yoga styles.  

33. Eat vegan for a day

If you don’t eat meat, you will be in heaven, as there are endless vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Chiang Mai . 

I should mention that vegetarianism is not typical in traditional Thai culture, and in rural parts of the country it can be very difficult to find meatless dishes. However, with the influx of foreigners in Chiang Mai as well as a change in the times, there are vegetarian and vegan places popping up everywhere.

Here are just a few of our veg favorites:

• There is also an attached zero-waste store where they sell items that are good for the environment , like bamboo straws, menstrual cups and reusable bags. Plus, there’s a section of second hand clothing and accessories where you can pick up (old) new clothes or donate any items that are weighing down your backpack!
• Pun Pun Restaurant : The produce at this restaurant is organic and is sourced from their own farm (renowned worldwide for their sustainability methods), so you can feel good about what you’re eating. 
• Anchan : One of our very favorite restaurants in the Nimman neighborhood, this small restaurant serves veg versions of Thai dishes as well as yummy smoothies. Their portions are huge and their curries are rich and delicious.
• Goodsouls Kitchen : With two locations, this is one of the more well-known vegan restaurants in Chiang Mai.
• Imjai Vegan (vegan stand in the Maya Food Court): The cheapest option on this list, this is a small stand in the Maya Food Court (located underground). The family who owns this is so sweet, and all the Thai dishes served here are vegan and cooked with coconut oil. For just 40 baht, you can get 3 different items (you choose from a buffet of options) as well as rice.
• Aum Vegetarian Restaurant : Located just south of the Old City walls, this is a cozy spot to enjoy vegetarian versions of traditional Thai dishes. We’ve heard good things about their veg khao soi!

34. Get lost inside the Old City walls

A lot of Chiang Mai’s charm comes from the fact that it remains a walled city with a moat surrounding the walls. Chiang Mai’s Old City is where most first-time visitors to this city will want to base themselves, and for good reason. You’ll find temples on just about every block, and there is an abundance of cute restaurants and massage parlors.

Wander through the narrow alleyways, stumble upon street art, and take a break with a smoothie or coconut ice cream from a street vendor. 

One of our favorite areas of the Old City to wander is the northeast corner. Start at Blue Diamond restaurant (a good choice for a meal!), and walk around the narrow streets nearby. There’s a small local market at the very edge of the city wall, and lots of tree-shaded streets with murals to get lost in. 

35. Explore this secret Art Village 

Unknown to most tourists, there is a cute “art village” that’s not far from the airport. With small cafes, tree-shaded paths, art studios and shops selling handcrafted items, this is a sweet spot to spend part of a relaxed afternoon. 

If you want to get artsy, there is even a pottery studio where you can book single-day classes or multi-day courses and get your hands dirty!

How to get there: We haven’t really been able to find the name for this village (comment below if you know the name!), but if you plug this address into Google Maps or direct your Grab driver here, you’ll find the parking lot and will be able to wander around from here.

Hungry? There are a handful of restaurants in the area serving local dishes, but if by chance you’re craving pizza, Adirak Pizza is just down the street and serves us the best pizza we’ve had in all of Asia. This stuff is the real deal and is worth the splurge. Oh, and they have wine too! Can I get a hell yeah ?!

36. Hang out in the a/c in one of Chiang Mai’s Luxurious Malls

Whether you’re visiting during rainy season or you want to escape the midday heat, popping into one of Chiang Mai’s malls can be a surprisingly fun way to spend part of the day. While we aren’t exactly “mall people”, we’re always pretty impressed by the shopping centers in Thailand.

There are several malls in Chiang Mai (Central Festival, Central Plaza, Promenada Resort Mall, to name a few), however, we are most familiar with Maya Mall.

Even if you don’t feel like trying on clothes, there’s plenty to do in Maya Mall:

• Have a drink at the rooftop bars: Take the elevator to the 6th floor, where you’ll step out onto the rooftop. Whether you just want to see the view or you want to enjoy a beer with the sunset, it’s worth a stop before you leave the mall.
• Watch a movie in style: The movie theater on the 5th floor of Maya shows the latest movies, and most are in English. On Wednesdays, movies are just 100 baht. If you want an extra special experience, go for the VIP theater where you can enjoy super comfy chairs, complimentary popcorn and a soda for just a bit more money.
• Explore the cutesy shops: Moshi Moshi and Daiso are Japanese shops that sell inexpensive items that you don’t really need, but you’ll definitely want.
• Visit the food court: The floor below ground level has a food court filled with local options that are tasty and affordable.
• Get your WiFi on: If you need to use the Internet for a bit, pop into CAMP, which is a co-working space on the 5th floor of Maya Mall. Purchase a beverage or snack and get 2 hours of complimentary WiFi, or buy an Internet card at the AIS store on the 3rd floor. It is 150 baht and can be used to access the Internet in CAMP and other places around the city for one month.
• Entertain your inner child: On the 5th floor you’ll find an arcade with air hockey, arcade dance games and more. And nearby, you’ll find virtual reality pods that cost 100 baht for a simulation of your choice.
• Cross the street and make your way to Nimman One: This upscale covered shopping center has European-inspired architecture and a food court with local dishes.

37. Try a coworking space

It’s no secret that Chiang Mai is one of the most popular digital nomad hubs in the world . A combination of high speed Internet, low cost of living, long-term rentals, and an active DN community are just some of the reasons that make Chiang Mai such an appealing city for remote workers to settle down for a while. 

We’re no exception. In fact, we’ve called Chiang Mai “home” two different times for a collective year. 

If you’re at all interested in the digital nomad lifestyle , give it a try by popping into one of the city’s many co-working spaces. There are tons all throughout the city. Simply type “coworking space” into Google Maps and you’ll see what we mean! 

Coworking spaces to try in Chiang Mai

• Punspace : This is kind of the OG in co-working spaces in Chiang Mai. With two locations inside the Old City, Punspace is well-known in the DN community for their networking events and prime working conditions. That said, they are one of the more expensive co-working places in the city.
• CAMP at Maya Mall : Located on the 5th floor of Maya Mall, this is a cool spot to check out if you’re just curious about co-working. It is free to work from here, though you are supposed to buy a drink in order to access the Internet. This space is often full of Thai university students and can get very crowded at times. 
• Heartwork : Located southeast of the Old City, this space is beautiful and quiet.

Psst! Are you a DN thinking about living in Chiang Mai? We’ve put together a guide to living in Chiang Mai as a digital nomad just for you!

38. Watch a Muay Thai fight

Translating to “Thai boxing”, Muay Thai is to Thailand what baseball is to the United States. This beloved sport is practiced all around the country , and seeing a match in person is on many travelers’ Thailand bucket list.

Just inside the Old City’s east gate (Thaphae), is a Muay Thai area where you can watch a handful of fights up close. This facility is outdoors and is quite small, but we went with a group of friends and had a fun time!

The quality of the fight is really going to depend on the athletes. We’ve heard some people say they came on a night when the fights seemed “rigged”. However, on the night we were there, we had an acquaintance that was fighting (there is often a foreigner in the last fight), and it seemed real to us!

Also, the matches typically start with young fighters and go up in age as the matches progress.

How much does it cost?

• Normal Ticket: 400 baht ($12.70 USD)
• VIP Ticket: 600 baht ($19 USD)
• there are also cocktails for a bit higher price

Insider Tip: In our opinion, the normal seats were just fine and weren’t much farther away than the VIP seats (in the photo above, you’ll see the men ahead of us were in the VIP seats but weren’t that much closer). Also, it is possible to reserve your seats in advance, but we had no trouble showing up and getting tickets at the door. It is also a bit cheaper to get the tickets in person.

What time are the matches? 

The Muay Thai fights start around 9 p.m. (you can be seated earlier) and they are held on most nights.

Really interested in Muay Thai? Why not take a course and try it out for yourself. There are many Muay Thai boxing gyms in Chiang Mai where you can learn from a trained instructor.

39. Go on a street art scavenger hunt

You don’t have to wander far in Chiang Mai to see displays of street art on walls or the sides of businesses. Whenever we’re in a city known for its street art scene, we love scoping out as many murals as possible.

There are a handful of well-known resident artists in Chiang Mai, plus, it’s a city that attracts muralists from around the world to leave their mark. 

Where to find street art in Chiang Mai:

• The Old City (especially the eastern section) is a great place to do a little self-guided street art scavenger hunt. 
• The Abandoned Women’s Prison is known as a good place for spotting a variety of murals. You can see many pieces of art from the outside without trespassing.
• You’ll also see lots of smaller pieces on the smaller streets in the Nimman neighborhood.

And if you’re really interested, this is a pretty comprehensive guide to street art in Chiang Mai .

40. Ride in a Songthaew (Red Truck)

When you visit Chiang Mai you can’t miss the numerous songthaews , or red trucks, on the roads. Songthaews, literally translated means “two rows”. They are converted red trucks with two padded bench seats in the bed and act as shared “taxis” throughout the city. 

Red trucks are our favorite way to get around Chiang Mai . Not only are red trucks plentiful and help reduce the number of cars on the road, they are fairly inexpensive costing only 30 baht ($0.93 USD) per person anywhere within the old city. 

Here is our rule of thumb for songthaew costs:

• Anywhere within or around the Chiang Mai Old City: 30 baht per person
• Chiang Mai Old City to Nimman Road area: 40 baht per person (sometimes only 30 if they already have a load of people)
• Chiang Mai Old City or Nimman Road to Airport: 50 baht person
• Old City to Doi Suthep Temple: 60 baht per person one-way

How to get in a Songthaew red truck

Hail down a red truck just like you would a cab or a tuk tuk, and they will pull over on the side of the road. Say hello (sah-wah-dee) to the driver and tell them the general area you are going. 

It may confuse them if you request a specific hotel or restaurant. We typically request one of the old city gates, or a popular market, and then just walk the rest of the way. 

If they know where you are going, they will either say “Okay” or state a price per person. If they don’t say a price, it is understood that the price is 30 baht per person. 

The drivers are pretty good about getting to where you want to go, but if they go past your stop, you can ring the bell on the ceiling and they will pull over. Hop out and pay the driver. 

41. See a cabaret show

If you’re looking for a fun night out on the town, consider seeing a cabaret show! RAM Bar will show you a good time with live performances every night starting at 10 p.m. The dancers are super talented and you’ll see several acts during this 1.5-hour show. 

Our advice would be to arrive early, as these shows fill up quickly and it is a very tiny venue. The drinks are on the expensive side, but the show is free, so we found it worthwhile and a fun experience!

P.S. Maybe you’ll get lucky like Ben and get called up on stage for a “special dance experience” haha!

42. Cheers with local craft beer (sort of…)

Any fellow craft beer lovers out there?! Listen up because we have some good news and some bad news. 

The bad: Thailand is well known for its light beers, like Chang, Leo and Singha. In fact, Chang has a monopoly on brewing in Thailand, meaning no other companies can actually brew inside the country.

To get around this, some small craft brewers source local ingredients, then send each batch off to Cambodia to be brewed and then returned to Thailand. Talk about red tape! 

Since this process comes with a big cost and is a logistical nightmare, the craft beer scene is still very small overall. 

The good: Things are changing. Since my first visit to Thailand back in 2011, things have changed a LOT when it comes to craft beer. Chiang Mai actually has a decent craft beer scene for being in a country where they have to outsource the brewing process. 

There are a handful of craft beer bars where you can get imported brews as well as “local beer”. (Remember, it may be sourced and combined in Thailand, but it is technically brewed outside of the country.)

One more thing we should point out is that because the brewing must be outsourced, craft beer in Thailand is very expensive. It is at least as expensive as you’d pay for a craft brew in a Western country, and a lot of times it’s even more than you’d pay at home.

But the cravings are real, friends, and if you want to some of Chiang Mai’s best (sort of) local beers, here’s where you’ll find them:

Best places for craft beer in Chiang Mai

• My Beer Friend : With a few locations around the city, My Beer Friend brews some pretty decent beers including IPAs and Stouts. You can also find their bottled beer in some of the bottle shops around town.
• Mind Cafe : With several taps and a refrigerator filled with craft bottles, this quaint shop in the Old City has a big selection.
• Q-Bar : Located in the Nimman neighborhood, this bar almost has speakeasy vibes and has a decent selection of craft beer.
• Renegade Craft Beer & Billiards : If you’re looking for a true sports bar vibe with a good beer selection, this will be your jam!
• Beer Lab : This place probably has the largest selection of imported beer in the entire city, but we weren’t overly impressed by the vibe or the prices.

43. Check out the nightlife in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s nightlife scene isn’t as lively as many other major cities, as the bars must “officially” close at midnight. Oh, and while we’re on the topic, if it is a crazy night out you’re looking for, Zoe in Yellow (a popular backpacker bar/club) is going to be the best place to find that scene.

But there are plenty of fun things to do at night, whether that involves drinks or not!. (See #15, #38 and  #41 on this list for some ideas.)

If you love live music and are craving a jam session, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to hear Chiang Mai actually has a pretty decent live music scene . Here are some venues that regularly host live music:

Where to see live music in Chiang Mai

• Northgate Jazz Co-Op : This ultra-popular venue can get super crowded, especially on Tuesdays when they host an open mic night. Expect to be standing on the street, mingling with other music-lovers.
• Thapae East : This venue is super cool and hosts many events.
• 7 Pounds : This bar is a hidden oasis, and we’re obsessed! With a garden lit by fairy lights, decently priced drinks and a big stage for performers, this low key bar is tucked away in a quiet street not far from Maya Mall and will make you feel as if you’ve discovered a local secret!
• Mellowship Jazz Club : Live music every night of the week. A little bit more upscale, but a pretty nice place if you want seating, food and nice drinks while enjoying live music.

44. Boil eggs in San Kamphaeng Hot Springs

While I wouldn’t say this is a must do for your first (or even second!) visit to Chiang Mai, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs Park is an interesting experience for someone who is looking to get far off the beaten path.

We stumbled upon this park by accident when driving to the floating pagodas of Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat (a day trip from Chiang Mai we totally recommend!).

We found a bunch of hot springs ranging in temperature — from nearly boiling to a comfortable soaking temperature.

We wandered past Thai families boiling eggs in the extremely hot pools and groups of Thai teenagers soaking their feet in the cooler pools while small children splashed around. 

There are local places to grab lunch, making it a good place to refuel before continuing on a little countryside road trip.

45. Visit a botanical garden

If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys escaping the city for nature, Chiang Mai has a few botanical gardens that are worth a visit.

• Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm
• Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Entrance fee: 40 baht per person

Situated just 30 minutes north of the city center, this enchanting botanical garden showcases it’s butterfly residents fluttering around among a vast collection of orchids. Visitors can wander through lush gardens, marvel at rare orchid varieties, and witness the delicate dance of vibrant butterflies that flit about.

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden

• Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Entrance fee: 100 baht for adults (50 baht for children)

Another 15 minutes west of Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm is the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden. Spanning over 1,000 acres, this expansive garden is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Thailand’s diverse plant species.

Visitors can explore themed gardens, including the Rainforest Collection and the Rock Garden, which feature an array of indigenous flora. The garden also serves as a hub for research and conservation, promoting environmental awareness and education.

We decided long ago that we will not knowingly contribute to attractions that exploit people or animals while traveling . A picture, in our opinion, just isn’t worth the suffering of others .

We know all too well that it is often hard to know if a company is socially responsible, so we try to share what we’ve learned along the way. We hope this information helps you formulate your own opinion about visiting some controversial sites on your travels.

As with any controversial issue, research the subject, and formulate your own opinion so you can make a socially-responsible decision.

Related: Easy ways to Travel More Responsibly

Tiger Kingdom

You will undoubtedly be pestered by tuk tuk drivers shouting “Tiger Kingdom! I take you to Tiger Kingdom!” After doing lots of research on the subject and talking to others who have visited this attraction, we have very strong feelings about this type of tourism.

And we made a firm decision not to support it even though, yes, having a picture with a large cat would be quite cool.

At the “sanctuary”, tigers are treated in a way that is undoubtedly inhumane. Hordes of people line up daily to have their photo taken with these animals that are living a harmful and unnatural lifestyle. This article outlines several reasons to avoid this tourist hotspot.

Elephant Trekking

Many of the treks advertised in Chiang Mai include an elephant ride. As we’ve written before , riding on an elephant’s back is actually very harmful to these gentle creatures. There are a few elephant sanctuaries in Thailand that treat them well, but the overwhelming majority are terribly cruel.

We had a wonderful experience at the very reputable Elephant Nature Park . Here, you can be assured that your contribution is not harming the animals, but instead is ensuring they have a healthy and happy life.

Visiting the “Long Neck” Hill Tribes

Several tour shops advertise tours that take you to a hill tribe village where you can see the famous “Longneck” people (this actually refers to a subgroup of the Karen people). 

Although we can’t speak from experience, some people we spoke to who had done these tours said it felt like a group of people on display in the name of tourism. Others claim that many of these villages’ main source of livelihood comes from tourism.

We, too, are intrigued by the indigenous tribes, but are still unsure of how we feel about this. It is no doubt a complicated issue that brings up many feelings in different people. 

Our advice would be to do a little research and decide where you stand on this topic. 

If you do decide to visit a hill tribe village, be sure to choose a company that is paying the villagers fairly and operating in an ethical way. Also, do some research on the history of these indigenous groups – many of whom are refugees – and you will have a much more meaningful experience.

How many days do you need in Chiang Mai?

Now that we have shared all the fun things to do in Chiang Mai, you’re probably wondering how you’re to fit it all in? AmIright ??

The number of days you should spend in Chiang Mai depends on your interests, travel preferences, and the activities you plan to do. 

If you’re more interested in exploring Thailand’s diverse landscapes outside of the city, you may find that 3 days in Chiang Mai is enough to get your palette wet. However, for a well-rounded experience of Chiang Mai, we’d suggest spending 5 to 7 days in the city. 

Here are some general guidelines:

• 3-4 days: Get a taste exploring Chiang Mai’s Old City and Nimman neighborhoods. Visit historic sites like Doi Suthep, Wat Pha Lat, and the night markets. And get a taste of Chiang Mai’s food scene.
• 5-7 days: If you have specific interests like taking a cooking class, doing a Monk Chat or learning Muay Thai, you might want to allocate additional time for exploration and cultural experiences. 
• 1 week or more: More time for exploring the city. Allocate 1 to 2 days for day trips to nearby destinations such as Doi Inthanon National Park, Sticky Waterfalls, or an elephant sanctuary, each offering unique experiences.

Before you plan your trip there is one very important thing to consider… We are going to go over the best time to visit Chiang Mai (and when to avoid visiting at all costs!).

• Thai “winter” has the best weather (November – January): Don’t be fooled by the word “winter” — temperatures are comfortable (warm during the day and slightly crisp at night). Also, during this time of year, rain is rare and the air is fresh!
• We would strongly advise against visiting Chiang Mai during this time. We lived in CM during this time, and it made most activities outside pretty miserable. Thankfully, weather in many of the Thai islands is very nice during this time of year.
• Hot & rainy season (May – October): Rain is frequent during these months and the temperatures can be unbearably hot and humid. Often times, the rain doesn’t last all day, but when it falls, it falls hard!

Related: Read up more on the best time to visit Thailand . This country is huge and spans many different microclimates, so the weather varies a lot!

How to get to Chiang Mai city center from the airport

Chiang Mai International Airport is located pretty near the city center (about a 10 minute drive to the Phae Gate in the Old City and 15 minutes to Nimman Road). 

When you arrive at the Chiang Mai International Airport, there is a taxi queue, but you’ll find that it is overpriced. Instead, order a Grab to pick you up directly from the airport. 

Or if you are on a shoestring budget, you can wait in front of the departure doors for a songthaew to come by. From the airport to the city, it should cost around 50 baht per person.

Transportation in Chiang Mai

Getting from one place to another is quite simple in Chiang Mai due to all the options for transportation. Here are just a few of the most common ways to get around:

• Songthaew (Red Truck)

These “shared taxis” are everywhere in the city and can basically take you anywhere you want to go for about 30-60 baht per person. More information above in #40.

Southeast Asia’s version of Uber and Lyft, this ride sharing app is super handy when wanting to get to a specific place. Grab constantly has promotions going on and we have gotten across the city for 20 baht before! Typical rides around town vary from 50-100 baht.

We only recommend renting a motorbike if you have driven one before and are comfortable with driving in a busy city and on the left side of the road. Additionally, you should always respect the rules of the road and don’t ride like an idiot to try to impress people.

Now that I’ve gotten that warning over with: Renting a motorbike can be one of the cheapest ways to get around and explore the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Rentals start at around 250 – 300 baht per day. You’ll need to leave your passport at the rental shop for collateral.

And please, please, PLEASE… wear a proper helmet (with wind-guard and facemask). It’s worth the extra 50 baht ($1.66 USD). We have seen/heard off too many travelers getting in accidents and we don’t want that to be you.

When you’re visiting Chiang Mai, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.

• Know what weather to expect . Chiang Mai is pretty darn reliable when it comes to weather, so look up the weather in advance so you can plan and pack accordingly. And if possible, avoid burning season – trust us (we’ve experienced it and it’s awful).
• Save room in your suitcase for souvenirs. Chiang Mai is my favorite place in Thailand to stock up on souvenirs. It tends to be cheaper than shopping in Bangkok or the Thai islands. Plus, the markets are great places to browse just about all the souvenirs you can imagine in one place.
• Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking a lot in Chiang Mai, and the sidewalks are notoriously uneven, so wear your comfiest shoes!
• Bring layers to wear at temples. When visiting temples (which you’ll definitely do in CM!) women will want to have something to cover your shoulders and knees. I like carrying a sarong in my bag which can be wrapped around my waist as a skirt, and a loose fitting t-shirt if I need to cover up a tank top.
• Don’t try to see all the things. There is so much to do and see in Chiang Mai that it can be overwhelming. Prioritize the things you want to see the most because you definitely won’t be able to do it all. Also, my advice is to choose a few temples that stand out to you and not try to see them all. There are hundreds and they can start to blend together after a while, in my opinion.
• Have a plan for transportation. Do you feel comfortable renting a motorbike? If not, you’ll need to rely on songthaews and Grabs to get around the city (which is pretty easy). The part that will be trickier is getting to the places outside the city. If you plan to do a lot of exploring outside the center, you may need to book a tour or arrange a driver.

From an amazing street food scene with traditional Thai dishes, to an abundance of vegetarian and vegan places, to tons of international options, Chiang Mai is truly a gem when it comes to food.  

Insider Tip: We love going into Google Maps and looking at the reviews for all the restaurants near our current location. Typically, you can’t go wrong when the reviews are 4.5 and up!

You could eat at a new restaurant every day of the year and still not visit all of Chiang Mai’s restaurants and food stalls, so there’s absolutely no way we could make a comprehensive list.

Honestly, I’m hesitant to even list restaurants here, as you won’t have to look far to find great food… But here are a (big) handful of restaurants (mostly in the Nimman neighborhood) to get you started:

**= vegetarian / vegan restaurant

*= many vegetarian vegan options (but still serves meat)

Local/Thai food

• Anchan **: One of our favorites! Vegetarian versions of Thai favorites. We especially love their massaman curry and stir fried mixed veggies. Yum!
• Khao Soi Mae Sai : Our favorite Khao Soi place in the city! Local shop, and cheap prices.
• Cherng Doi Roast Chicken : Famous for roast chicken and sticky rice (served with a yummy sauce!) as well as their papaya salads. Their mushroom tom yam soup is good too (and vegetarian).
• FYI: It is a very small menu with basically a few options for one dish — stewed pork leg and rice. I do not believe there are any veg options.
• Home J Vegan & Teaw J **: Super cheap Thai vegan place where you pick 3 dishes to be served over rice. The woman who owns this small restaurant is sweet and does a lot of “mock meat s”.
• Our favorite is the vegetarian stand, Shan Tou Hao Chi **. If you like mushrooms, be sure to ask for a serving. The are amazing! The people who work at this stall are so sweet, and you’ll get a big portion for a small price (around 40 baht).
• Wrap Master * is another good option in the food court. You’ll find burritos and creative wraps (with veg options).
• Tip: Order your skewers “less spicy” (you’ll select your preference on a piece of paper where you place your order). We love spicy food, but this is next-level spicy! Oh, and if you eat pork, the bacon-wrapped mushrooms are super tasty!
• Street Food @ One Nimman *: Street Food Style Food Court area with lots of choices!

Our favorite cafes

• Free Bird Cafe **: Non-profit vegan cafe with a zero waste and thrift shop inside.
• Gallery Seescape *: Super tasty meals that are healthy and have lots of veggies. Our favorites are: chicken & roast veggie salad, veggie rice bowl, deconstructed massaman beef sandwich, and eggs Benedict. I ordered a smoothie bowl once and was disappointed, as it was really runny.
• Manifreshto *: This tiny cafe is one of our favorite places for healthy smoothies (they’re amazing!) and decadent (Western) breakfasts. Many of the breakfast options include meat, but you can make substitutions (for mushrooms or egg).
• Imm Aim Vegetarian and Bike Cafe **: Vegetarian restaurant with tons of Thai dishes.
• Blue Diamond **: Located in a quiet part of Old City, has a big vegetarian menu and lots of yummy desserts.

Other favorites

• Food 4 Thought *: Huge menu with Western options, and everything is made from scratch. We think the best thing on the menu are their (huge!) salads (Citrus Chicken, Zorba, and Cobb are some favorites). Oh, and try their carrot cake too!
• Tip: In the same courtyard space is a wine shop ( Wine Lover by Pao ) that has lots of options (as well as a decently priced house wine available in carafes). Wine is not always easy to find in Asia, so if you like vino, keep this little shop in mind!
• Salsa Kitchen *: Best Mexican food we’ve found in Chiang Mai. Good margs too, and lots of vegetarian and vegan options.
• Tip: There are tons of topping and dressing options to choose from — some better than others — and it does take a little experimenting to come up with a good combo. (We like the creamy sesame and Japanese soy dressings.)
• Cat House *: Mix of Western and Thai food on the east side of Old City. Lots of veg options.
• Beast Burger : If you’re craving a burger, this is one of the best you’ll find in all of Chiang Mai.
• Adirak Pizza *: A bit out of the way, but this place has the best pizza we’ve had in Asia.
• Namaste Indian Cuisine * is another good choice for Indian, and it’s cheaper, but not as nice of an atmosphere.
• Ninja Ramen : Big selection of many different types of ramen.
• Ai Sushi and Tsunami Sushi Bar : Two of our favorite spots for sushi. Ai Sushi has a larger menu, while Tsunami is cheaper.

There are plenty of amazing hotels in Chiang Mai. If you’re looking for the best place to stay during a short visit, we’d recommend finding accommodation near Tha Phae Gate (the east part of the Old City or just outside). 

If you are planning to spend some time living in Chiang Mai as a digital nomad , we’d recommend looking for accommodation in the Nimman neighborhood .   For more detailed information on the different neighborhoods, plus lots of hotel and Airbnb recommendations, we put together an entire article for travelers trying to figure out where to stay in Chiang Mai .

Be sure to download our complete packing list for SE Asia ! It’s packed with good suggestions and insider tips to help plan your SE Asia vacation. And it’s completely FREE, so why not!?

Round up of the best things to do in Chiang Mai

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Chiang Mai so you can see everything in one place.

• Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Tong)
• Wat Pha Lat Temple
• Elephants in Chiang Mai (the responsible way)
• Bamboo rafting  
• Temple hopping
• Doi Suthep Temple (Wat Phra That)
• Chiang Mai’s Night Markets 
• Thai Cooking Class
• Doi Inthanon National Park
• Lampang’s “Floating Pagodas” (Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat)
• Huay Kaew Waterfall and swimming hole
• Mok Fa Waterfall
• Rooftop bars
• Thai massage
• Northern Thai dishes
• Loy Krathong & Yi Peng Festivals
• Meditate with monks
• Street food
• Viahero Chiang Mai itinerary
• Chiang Mai’s Local Markets
• Eat ALL the tropical fruits
• Songkran celebrations
• Chiang Mai Grand Canyon
• Cafe culture
• Huay Tung Tao Reservoir
• Old City Chiang Mai
• Secret Art Village 
• Chiang Mai’s Luxurious Malls
• Co-Working Space
• Muay Thai fight
• Street art scavenger hunt
• Cabaret Show
• San Kamphaeng Hot Springs

More Thailand resources…

We have TONS of resources on travel in Thailand and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Best Time to Visit Thailand: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Digital Nomad’s Guide to Living in Chiang Mai
• Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat: Adventurous Day Trip From Chiang Mai
• Visiting Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Tong) in Chiang Mai

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We want to hear from you!

Which of these things to do in Chiang Mai are going straight to the top of your bucket list? Do you have any other suggestions you think belong on this list? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below. 

Comments (110) on “ 45 Absolute Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand ”

Thank you for all of the information! It is obvious that it is a lot of work! You’ve helped so much!

Great post! So thorough and well put together. We are headed to Chiang Mai next week and I have a whole list of things to do and places to visit now!

Thank you so much for this detailed blog, had so much fun reading it!!

Thanks for the post. It has some really useful info. I have been to Chiang Mai, but it was years ago and I know it has changed loads. I am now heading back with teenage kids, so really looking forward to trying out some of the adventurous activities with them.

Great blog! Thank you for all the info. I believe I might have found the name of the artist village you mention in your blog post. Is it called Bann Kang Wat?

Hi there 🙂 Just wanted to give a comment that this was an amazing blog and I genuinely appreciate you and your efforts! I am ecstatic about my visit and can’t wait!

Hi guys, I had the incredible opoortunity (thanks for the best article btw) to chat with monsk in Wat Pha Lat! Inspired by your article, I wanted to ask about their position on LGBT and share that with you. The monks said, they believe in karma and that LGBT bring (in their opinion) bad karma from orevious life. They ended by saying that everyone has right to love and to be loved:) This comment relates to one of the article above. I hope I answered your question:)

Once again, thank you. Kevin

Thank you for this incredible post. It made me fall in love with Chiangmai Mai, and I haven’t even been there yet! Beautiful photos too.

I’ve been thinking about going back to Chiang Mai (now that it looks like Thailand might open soon). Saw your list and realized I didn’t do half the things on your list when I was there several years ago. Looking forward to do a bit of hiking – didn’t think that was possible near Chiang Mai. Thanks for sharing!

As a current resident in Chiang Mai, this list is incredible for tourists and locals alike. Amazing! Thank you so much.

This is an amazing list, thank you so much for putting the time and effort on this! Even though a few places are closed due to covid, I’ve saved many to try out 🙂

And I think the name of the little art market is "All day craft market" 🙂 thank you again for this!

My god such detailed info! I have been to Thailand before but never thought of Chiang Mai. Definitely on my list of places to visit. Thanks for sharing.

We have been to Chiang Mai 3x – found your blog on the last visit and it was incredibly helpful. Thank You! We always do a pair of overnight visits to Elephant Nature Park. We have also added Happy Elephant Home for a smaller more personal experience. We both got tattooed last visit (Ganesha Tattoo- sadly closed – and Celebrity Ink). Utilizing your info we did the Pilgrim’s Path hike (then found out there is red truck and Grab Car service available – better to hike though). We designed a 2 day food tour that hit 8 restaurants /coffee bars from your recommendations plus 4 more we found. Renting a motorcycle or scooter was cool but we did have to also hire a guide for the day since following someone is so much easier than traveling on the left side of the road. We have settled on the month of Nov every year as we love the Yi Peng and Loi Krathong Festival. Visiting the Buddhist Temple of Hell, Wat Mae Kaet Noi, was pretty interesting as the guide we hired to lead us was also a Buddhist scholar who shared many insights and historical facts with us. We always enjoy a couple drinks at Blue Boy Bar at the Night Market for some amazing music. Thanks for sharing your experiences! Steve & Gayle

So helpful! THANK YOU

I will be shifting to Chiang Mai within next few months and this is really helpful. I got a clear insight now

Thank you for taking the time out to share your experiences . It has been most helpful for our upcoming trip

This is super helpful thank you for all of the work that went into this!

Oooh this is a nice list. My favourite is getting soaked at Songkran celebrations. That looks really fun. The waterfall also looking cool. Haha basically anything involving water

i have a blogger couple that used to live there, and they also have such lovely things to say! so far i have spent time in PhiPhi, Samui and Phuket. Id love to explore more, i fell in love with Thailand!

I am so amazed by this long list of things to do in Chiang Mai! I am planning to go there in a few months so I will definitely save this list for later! And all that food makes me willing to travel there asap!

Oh my god, how good does the food look there? I have been itching to go back to Thailand for a while now and I can’t wait to visit Chiang Mai.

Browse for reading treasures in the Lost Bookstore. They will also buy back books at a reasonable rate once you are done! It is a unique place with books up to the ceiling.

Thanks for the additional tip, Janine!

Such a helpful blog! Taken so many screenshots for next week when we arrive. Thank you!

Great to hear, Ashleigh! Hope you have a great time in Chiang Mai!

What a great blog thank you, heading there for 7 nights on way to Uk for Xmas and now have our days filled. We have been there before but backpacking 30 yrs ago so lots have changed I’m sure. Thank you..

Hey Sandy, You’re right, a lot has changed in Chiang Mai in 30 years. I would be curious to hear the differences you noticed. Have a great trip!

What a fantastic blog, i have been researching for a while now and this is by far the most helpful site i have visited. thank you!

Aww, thank you so much, Diana! We hope you have a wonderful time in Chiang Mai!

Thanks for the information! Much appreciated.

Hey Nafeez, you are very welcome! Hope you have a wonderful time in Chaing Mai!

Hello I just finished reading your blog it was super helpful!! I have one question. Are there red trucks to pick you up where they drop you off outside the city?? Also when you rented bikes, was it okay to leave it parked somewhere? I have this fear of not finding a ride back to my hotel is I deiced to go hiking or leave a bike I rented without it getting stolen?? Not sure if I’m being irrational.

Good Questions, Ariana. There are red trucks everywhere in the city! They frequently drive up Doi Suthep too, so if this is where you are hiking, you’ll be able to find one. If not, get a phone number of a red truck driver from your hotel and they will be able to help you out. When you rent bikes, it’s always best to get a lock for them. Chiang Mai is a very safe city, and I wouldn’t expect someone to take a rental bike, but it’s always best to just lock it up. Hope this helps!

very nice info, i will go there soon!

RE: "2018 Update: We have been told the Grand Canyon has now been turned into a water park of sorts with platforms and inflatable toys. It sounds like a bunch of fun, but the entrance fee has increased and is currently 450 baht (up quite a bit from 50 baht when we were there in 2015)."

There are two businesses at the canyon. One is the big waterpark, but the other, in your photos, is next door and still there. We paid 100b yesterday. Entrances/parking areas are just meters apart.

Hi Liz! Yes there are two water park areas: One will the inflatables (450 baht), and one more for lounging (100 baht). There are literally right next to each other so for others making the trip, make sure you know which one you want to enter. Update to come 🙂

Hi Katie, Ben, thanks for your very helpful comments. Any thoughts/comments on farm stays in Chiang Mai?

We didn’t do a farm stay near Chiang Mai (we did one up near Pai, you should check out that article). We’d recommend looking on the WWOOF website to find farms. Make sure to look through the comments, rating and details before you commit a week or two to a farm.

Such a great article 🙂 So excited to squeeze as much in as possible – we have only booked 5 days but may stay longer! Your photos are gorgeous – it looks like a really beautiful place. Particularly excited about the hiking and visiting the elephants! Thanks for sharing all your knowledge and tips 😀

You are very welcome Kirsty! There are so many things to do in Chiang Mai, we love it there!

Great article, thanks. My wife and I volunteer (once every two years) at Elephant Nature Park with their Seven day package and it’s amazing. You get to help out and really learn about these amazing animals, plus you meet some great people. If you have time I highly recommend the seven day option. We also spend time in Chiang Mai and have grown to love it. Thanks for the suggestions, we will definitely be exploring some of them.

Thanks for your suggestion Dave!

This article was so awesome – thank you!!!

Thanks so much Olivia! We love Chiang Mai! Are you heading there soon?

Thank you so much! I am visiting Chiang Mai in a week and your article was better than anything I hoped on finding after googling about things to do in the city. The tittle and topic have pulled me in, your style of writing and originality have made me stay on your website for hours and I was positively surprised by your way of using influence for the greater good.

Wow, thank you so much for your kind comment. We hope you had a wonderful time in Chiang Mai. We really love this city and always encourage travelers to visit.

Great article, thanks much!

You are very welcome, Iryna!

This is seriously the best post about Chiang Mai I have read! I’ve been twice and planning to go next year and you’ve given me some great ideas of alternative things to do! Thanks!

Thanks for your kind words Shireen. We love Chiang Mai and have lived there twice now!

You guys are awesome. The article is informative and yet a lot sensitive to the Dos and DON’Ts. I love the entire flow it has. Me and my wife are planning to visit it in April 2nd week. I had a few questions: – Would the weather be too bad? We live in Mumbai, India so we are used to the heat and humidity, but would like to know more. – We plan to catch the Bangkok-Chiang Mai train as i absolutely love train journeys. Its a great way to meet more people, exchange travel stories and to see the great landscape go by. Any watch outs? – We both are avid nature lovers and would love to explore small villages or places where we can go for a meal or do some small activity. Any recommendations?

Once again, thank you for the amazing work you guys are doing. If you’ll ever plan a visit to India, I would love to host you’ll in Mumbai and take you around.

Hello Prathamesh, Thank you for you thoughtful comment! The weather in the 2nd week of April will be hot, but it is around the Thai New Year, Songkran. Where the whole city turns into water fight! We’ve hear the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is stunning, but we’ve only been on it in the dark so can’t speak much to that. Up in the Doi Suthep mountains there are villages where you can walk through and explore. Many have small cafes where you can have a good meal. Hope this helps!

This is a great article! We’ve been here for two months and haven’t done half of these things! mostly because we didn’t know they existed, thanks!

Love the ethical aspects of this article, relaying info about the ‘long neck’ women and elephants. I live in CNX and often have to have these conversations with people.

I also saw that you posted one of my FAVE things to do here, which is to see the cabaret show. Just a heads up, they’ve moved from Ram Bar to a spot called 6IXCRET (pronounced Secret) here’s the google map link, you can access them through IG and FB quite easily. It’s all the same performers in a much upgraded venue and with fab new costumes and numbers (I’m totally unaffiliated, just a huge huge fan) https://goo.gl/maps/Kk4QvbqQuhJ2

cheers! Barrak Founder, theluckystraw.com

Thanks Barrak for the recommendation! We’ll have to check it out next time we are in Chiang Mai! Cheers!

I totally agree with you about not visiting human zoos like longneck tours etc. Instead go and meet the real people! Our encounters with Thai, Hmong, Karen and other hill tribe people led to friendship and lasting memories – instead of an arranged photo. Our village stays were organised by Duara travels, which idea is not just have home-stay but to participate in the daily lives of the villages. We went to market, cooked and ate with our families. Picked coffee and roasted it, helped the monks at the temple and sat evenings in their ‘living room’ chatting (with google translate) and drinking hot water. Best of my travel memories!

Hi iina, Sounds like you made some great memories in Chiang Mai. Thanks for sharing!

Love your blog! We are 58 and 60 yo canadian couple, we are selling our house and stuff (so much stuff) and we are getting a small place in Quebec and we’ll be spending 6 months a year elsewhere. Our first place is CHIANG MAI and your excellent input is making a huge difference. Do not stop this great work, you are helping people like us!

Thanks so much Lizabeth. You’re so kind. You are going to love living in Chiang Mai! Let us know if you have any other questions.

THanks for sharing all this and nice tips to get around! Just that perhaps you would add the sky lanterns to be included in the things not to do as they can do a lot of harm to the nature. Otherwise this is a very useful list, thank you!

Yes, definitely a good point. We have an entire article dedicated to the Yi Peng festival and discuss the dangers and harms of sky lanterns. Thanks!

Excellent post !!! I am presently in Chiang Mai and found your suggestions and tips very helpful ! Thank you !!!

We’re so happy to hear that, Celine! Hope you had an amazing time 🙂

Great post! I wish I had seen this before I went to Chiang Mai. Bookmarking for next time!

Hey Pepe, Great to hear you like it! Let us know if you want any more advice for traveling around Thailand!

Whenever I am in Chiang Mai, my family and I usually stay at Akyra Manor. The hotel is great and spacious, staff were very helpful and made our stay comfortable plus the rooftop bar is nice and not too busy.

Thanks you for the additional tips about Chiang Mai!

The most unusual list about Things to do in Chiang Mai I saw. It is necessary to add here an Infinity nightclub! =)

Thanks Cat! Glad you liked our list of things to do in Chiang Mai.

This is awesome, one of the best CM guides that I have read. Definitely saving a bunch of these places 🙂

Thank you so much, that really means a lot! We spent a lot of time on it, so we’re so happy to hear when it’s helpful!

Fantastic article, very thorough and detailed i will be using much of this information. Thank you!

You are very welcome Mike. Hope you enjoy Chiang Mai!

Hi guys. I’m currently researching sustainable tourism development, for my dissertation project for university in the U.K. Sustainable tourism development is a very important topic at the moment! I would greatly appreciate your help so if you can spare 5 mins to fill in the survey please do! The survey coconsists of 12 questions and its design makes it easy to use and complete.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScqt4fl7N1NJF25mSjFO9_ycCU7o_ZKm-OJFs30liOPwtzHow/viewform?usp=sf_link

Hi Chris, thanks for your comment. If you want to talk further about your survey, please fill out the form on our Contact Us page. Cheers!

Love this post, thank you so much for lots of wonderful info! I’m headed on a solo adventure to Asia and will be spending four days in Chiang Mai and your post has made me so excited!

Hey Julie, Thanks so much for your sweet comment. We’re really glad you liked the article. There are so many things to do in Chiang Mai, you will have a great 4 days. Let us know if you have any questions. Cheers!

I’m so glad I found your blog! I am dying to go to Thailand and Chiang Mai is at the top of my list. Thanks!

Hey Chelsea, we’re glad you found it useful! You’ll love Chiang Mai and the rest of Thailand! Let us know if you have any questions, we are happy to help!

These tips are great! We’re planning to go to Thailand in the beginning of September, but am a little concerned about the rainy season. Also, not finding any trips we liked we are planning our own and signing up for a couple day tours at each location. Is Thailand easily to navigate?

Hey Stephanie, in my opinion, Thailand is one of the easiest countries to navigate on your own. Nearly everyone speaks English and they really cater to travelers. Let us know if you have any other questions on Thailand.

Thanks for the tip about the Saturday morning hiking group! My husband and I met up with them for an 18 mile hike last weekend. It was a ton of fun.

Hey Megan! Glad you enjoyed the hiking group. 18 miles, wow that’s impressive!

Hi.. love your blog.. would like to ask about the Wat Pan Tao Lantern Ceremony.. It looks amazing… where can I get more info about this? 🙂

Hey Mel, The Wat Phan Tao Lantern Ceremony is held at Wat Phan Tao on the night of Loy Krathong (which for 2017 is November 3rd) and the ceremony is usually around 7-8pm. But you will want a good spot to view the ceremony you should get there about 2 hours early (before the sun sets), because it gets super crowded.

I been having withdrawals just returning from Thailand and Chiangmai is def one of my fave cities. You got the countryside and city side by side. And it isn’t overcrowded like Bangkok. Great for sharing. thanks. We stayed Yesterday Hotel on Nimmanahaeminda Rd and it was alright. Good thing is, it was close to everything. Its good to know there are some reviews on hostels because I was always a bit iffy on it. How did you guys find the place or was it recommended? I will check it out. We plan to go back in the near future. To Chiang Rai first then back to Chiang Mai.

Agreed – having the city near nature is one aspect we really loved! We usually use Hostelworld to look at reviews and only choose places that are highly ranked (aka not dirty or in a bad location). We’ve found tons of amazing hostels on there and a lot of times stay in private rooms. Happy travels!

Did you do the full day or half day class?

Hi Lynette, We did the full-day class and would highly recommend doing it that way if you have the time. On the day that we did the cooking class, there was only one couple who had signed up for half day, and it kind of felt like awkward timing for them. Hope that answers your question!

You just made me miss Chiang Mai SOOOOO MUCH! For 1. You mentioned Khao Soi which is my favoritest thing in the entire world! The first bite of it I took, I knew it would bring me heartbreak since I couldn’t get it anywhere else in the world…2. The place you mentioned to try it is my favorite noodle cart! I have a picture of it so I know how to identify it among all the other carts! Too funny.

I feel like I had pretty much the same experience in Chiang Mai as you did. The only thing I didn’t get to do was make Krathongs. Can you tell me where you sourced the materials, did someone help you make them or show you how? would love to get their information if I could.

Ahh so funny about the noodle cart – we went back there at least 5 times because the Khao Soi was the best we had anywhere else in the city! And SO cheap!

We were in Chiang Mai during the Loi Krathong celebration and the cooking class that we did actually provided all the materials for us to make them. It was kind of a special class since I think they only do it at that time of year. But it was such a cool experience!

Thanks for sharing your website – we’ll have to check it out!

Great article! We feel very much the same as you do about visiting the North in terms of what to do and what not to do ie visit the hill tribe people! I’m half Thai and totally agree that Khao Soi should be a staple on Thai menus in Western countries! It’s one of my favourite dishes and i can’t believe my Mum never told me about it!

Hey Su Bish! It’s always a good idea to stay away from tourist traps that exploit animals or indigenous tribes. And OMG how good is Khao Soi! Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!

Great write. Your article has inspired me to travelled to Chiang Mai. Well done!

Thanks John! Glad we could convince you to travel, though it doesn’t take much 🙂

Thanks John! Chiang Mai is great. Glad to hear we inspired you to travel there!

I’ve been to the Loi Krathong festival in Pattaya, but I hear that Chiang Mai is the place to go for that. The police were stamping out sky lanterns on the beach with their feet! Wasn’t what I pictured the celebrations to be like at all!

Hey Pattaya! Chiang Mai is a nice place to be for Loi Krathong Festival but it does get really busy. It seems like everyone and their mom came to the festival and the city was absolutely packed. Hard to find accommodation. They no longer have the mass sky lantern release (unless you want to pay $100-300 to do it), so it might not be what you’re expecting. There’s one night during the festival that you can release the sky lanterns in the city, which is pretty spectacular, but again it’s quite busy.

Hey, just a note. Unfortunately, there are companies convincing people you have to pay to do the sky lantern release. It’s totally unnecessary to do that. I was just there last November and I paid all of 50Baht for a Lantern and walked over to the Nawarat Bridge to release lanterns with a group of people. There were hundreds of people out there doing the same.

YES! We did the same thing. We were there in 2015, and realized that the major ceremony being advertised was just for tourists – not authentic at all – so we steered clear of it and bought our own lantern to release on the bridge with all the other people who were doing the same 🙂 Glad you did that too!

Thank you! I am travelling to Thailand and Laos this November/December and your advice will be very beneficial. Great job good onya. ?

Just 2 things if I may. Firstly did you build your own website and if so which did you use? Secondly if you’re interested you can follow my journey through these countries on Instagram @ bernie9330

Hey Bernie! We use Squarespace as a website platform and we’ll definitely check out your Instagram. Hope you have fun in Thailand and Laos, you’ll love it there! Glad to hear our stuff has been helpful.

WOW! this blog made me more giddy for my trip to Chiang Mai this November! This blog is really REALLY helpful! <3

Thank you so much!

Hi Mish, I’m so happy you found it helpful! November is a wonderful time to be in Thailand. Are you planning to be there for the Yi Peng lantern festival? It’s an incredible experience, but if you plan to be there at that time, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance! The city gets completely full and we were without a bed for a night! Eeek! Happy planning and let us know if you have any questions!

YAAAAAS! I wanted to go there because of the Yi Peng Festival! It’s my first time to travel solo and go to overseas.. so im both excited and nervous at the same time!Haha I have booked my accommodation as early as January! that’s how excited I am!HAHA I did a lot of research aswell and I have read tonds of blogs about Chiang Mai and yours is one of the best! All tickets for the paid Yi Peng festival are already sold out,so what I plan to do is just to celebrate the festival just the way locals do! And again, im excited about it. 🙂

That’s great! You’ll love being there during the Yi Peng Festival, such a great time! And good idea about celebrating just like the locals. I think that’s the best way to do it.

Thanks for the great post! We’re planning our second trip to SE Asia and will definitely be taking some of these recommendations!

Thanks so much, Bethany! We hope these suggestions are helpful! Let us know what you think of Thailand and SE Asia 🙂 Best of luck planning!

Great roundup, guys! Thanks for including us 🙂

Chris and Angela

Thanks Chris & Angela! That’s a huge compliment coming from you guys. We love your stuff and recommend it to everyone.

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Home » Travel Guides » Thailand » 25 Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai (Thailand)

25 Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai (Thailand)

Known as the ‘Rose of the North’ Chiang Mai is steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful architecture. Founded over seven centuries ago Chiang Mai is the capital of the Lanna Kingdom and home to more than 300 temples. Due to its location in the north of the country the temperature is cooler than you would find in Bangkok or any of the more southern regions meaning you can spend longer each day sightseeing without feeling the same levels of fatigue.

The locals of Chiang Mai are some of the nicest and most laid back in all of Thailand and the city has a charm will instantly make you fall in love with the place, whittling this list down to just 25 was incredibly hard so with further hesitation let’s get started on the top things to do in Chiang Mai :

1. Take A Visit To Doi Suthep

The most famous attraction in all of Chiang Mai is Doi Suthep, every travel agent and driver will ask you if you want to go, it is like Big Ben is to London. Doi Suthep is about 12km outside of Chiang Mai and is a mountain that has a fantastic view over all of the city. Standing at 5400 metres the mountain also houses Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a 13th century temple that is home to a large white elephant shrine as well as a replica of the Emerald Buddha.

Tip: This Doi Suthep & Hmong Hill Tribe Village Visit includes a scenic throughthe  historic areas of Chiang Mai, a visit to Doi Suthep and a visit to the Meo Hill tribe

2. Be Fashionable At Nimmanhaemin Road

Nimmanhaemin Road is the trendiest part of Chiang Mai, full of fancy bars and restaurants it is the place where all the up and coming citizens of the area hang out. The main road has several high end bars and the side streets (soi’s) are full of them as well. There is a new shopping mall at one end of the road which contains many designer shops as well as a multiplex cinema and many famous restaurant names. The area is the most expensive part of Chiang Mai both in terms of property and general eating out.

3. Take A Trip Down The San kamphaeng Road

Also known as the ‘Handicraft Highway’ a 10km stretch of road where you will find outlets famous for their pottery, silverware, lacquerware, sculpting, wood carving and silk products. The area is especially famous for its pottery which is known as Celadon, it has a green glaze which in turn makes it look like Jade, there are several outlets on this road where you can pick these up. Not many know but Chiang Mai is famous for some of the best silverware in Thailand and if you stop into Louis Silverware you will be able to watch the master artist carrying out his work.

4. Visit Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park is home to the highest mountain in all of Thailand, an extension to the Shan Hills and made mostly from granite. The park covers a land area of 48,240 hectares, The highest point of the mountain is 2565 metres tall and has been known to hit lows of -8 degrees centigrade, whilst visiting the Park you cannot help but notice the number of birds that you will see, Doi Inthanon is home to more species of bird than anywhere else in Thailand.

5. Eat Khao Soi

Northern Thailand is famous for many things but its greatest export surely has to be Khao Soi. It is a coconut and curry flavored soup filled with yellow egg noodles and chicken, sitting on top of the soup are crispy fried egg noodles giving a real mix of textures to the dish. At the side of soup bowl you will be given a small plate that has chopped red onions, pickled green mustard and a wedge of lime. If there is no other local food you try whilst you are in Chiang Mai you cannot leave before trying Khao Soi, it is absolutely delicious. There are also several food tours available.

6. Shop Again At Warorot Market

Right next to the Ping River is the Warorot Market. Most of the other markets in this city are night markets but Warorot opens early in the morning and closes when darkness descends. This is the market where the locals shop so the prices are low and not inflated like so many of the tourist markets. You can find just about everything at the market such as vegetables, fruit, meat, clothing, jewellery, souvenirs, fireworks and many other things. When you come out the market and venture into the side streets you will find a lot of Thai Handicraft goods made by the local Hill Tribe and again at much cheaper prices than anywhere else.

7. Take A Boat Trip On The Mae Ping River

A two hour boat trip along the Mae Ping River is an excellent way to spend an afternoon, you get to watch as the scenery along the river changes, you will also get to see many beautiful traditional teak houses as well as a lot of rural greenery along the wat. There are a couple of tour companies ( book online ) that carry out the boat trips and they both sail for about forty five minutes before stopping off at a local farmers house for lunch, whilst at the house you can also see how the production of jasmine rice is completed as well as further relaxing in the luscious gardens.

9. Stop For Coffee At The Cat Café

Popular in China and Japan, Chiang Mai now has its very own Cat Café and it is aptly named Catmosphere, the café is designed to fit in with its name with pictures of spaceships and cats floating around in UFO’s adorning the walls. There are fifteen cats currently living in the café and they are free to roam around as if it is their home (after all it is their home.) Drinks are a little pricier than a normal café which you would expect as a lot of time and money is spent grooming the cats and making sure everything is as clean as possible. During busy periods a two hour maximum stay is put on visitors but that should be ample to get your weekly cat fix.

10. Stop at Chiang Mai’s Very Own Grand Canyon

An old soil quarry this place is still very much unknown, it is a huge canyon that is now filled with water and has some absolutely staggering views. The Canyon is very deep and the water filling it is collected rain water that is now estimated to be forty meters deep. At the entrance is a nice restaurant to stop for a drink in before you start off on your adventure. There is not a lot to do here except for continuously wowing yourself with every turn as the sights are stunning and you will never get bored of them.

12. Have Fun Bartering At The Night Bazaar

Chang Klan Road is just another road during the day, but at night the whole place lights up as the stall holders drag out their stalls and get set up for the night.  Hundreds of traders line the road selling various goods such as fake designer items, lanterns and other handcrafted goods. A lot of things will not have a price on and bartering is openly encouraged. The market is open every single day of the year whatever the weather.

13. Make A Visit To Wat Phra Singh

Wat Phra Sing is a Buddhist temple and monastery that was founded in the 14th century. Known as the Temple of the Lion Buddha it houses two Buddha statues. There are 700 monks living in the temple who regularly come to talk to the tourists and are normally very friendly. The largest building at the site is the assembly hall which was rebuilt in 1925 and houses Phra Chao Thong Tip, a very large copper and gold cast of the seated Buddha, various other buildings can be found on the site giving you a lot to explore when you arrive. Is included in several available temple tours .

14. Check Out The Ruins Of Wat Chedi Luang

Known as the Temple of the Big Stupa, Wat Chedi Luang is the ruins of an ancient temple situated in the center of Chaing Mai. Before the temple was in its current state it used to be the home of the Emerald Buddha, the holiest religious object in all of Thailand. An earthquake in 1545 damaged large amounts of the temple and when the Burmese captured Chiang Mai five years later the temple was left to fall into ruin. The temple is still an active worship place so you will still see monks going about their daily work as well as several Buddha shrines.

15. Relax At Bai Orchid And Butterfly Farm

The Orchid is the symbol of Thailand and Thai Airways so it is no surprise that Orchids are very popular amongst the people. Situated just outside Chiang Mai, visitors can marvel at the year rounds exotic blooms as well as buying seedlings. The souvenir shop has fresh orchids that have been dipped in gold and made into different jewellery items. The Butterfly Farm is just next to the orchid farm and houses thousands of butterflies in their natural habitat.

16. Visit The Long Neck Karen Tribe

The Karen are a tribal group who are originally from Myanmar but fled to Thailand during the political unrests of the past. They now live in small villages one of which is in Mae Rim just outside of Chiang Mai. The visits to the villages are enlightening experiences as you get to see the tribal people going about their everyday life whilst having to sell their products to tourists in order to feed themselves. Always go with a tourist guide as they will be able to communicate with the locals and ask any questions you may have of the tribe’s members whilst you are there. There’s a full day tour available: Chiang Dao: Five Hill Tribes Trek

17. Hail a Songthaew

Chiang Mai is home to the Songthaew , the most common being a bright red one which the locals refer to as a ‘red car’ it is an easy and cheap way to get around the city. The Songthaew’s spend their days driving around the narrow roads picking up customers and dropping them off in their chosen locations. You sit in the back of the car on a bench with the other tourists and locals, the car drives around dropping people off whilst picking up new ones. Not every Songthaew will want to give you a lift as it depends if you are on a similar route to the other customers the driver has already picked up. This is a much cheaper alternative to getting a ride in a tuk-tuk.

18. Participate In The Loi Krathong Festival

Chiang Mai celebrates the Loi Krathong festival more than any other city in Thailand, an annual event that ties in with the twelfth lunar month. A Krathong is a basket that is shaped like a lotus and has a candle sitting in the center of it, these are placed in the water of the moat that surrounds part of Chiang Mai and left to float of into the distance, this is done to show respect to Buddha. At the same time as the Krathongs are being released you will see thousands of lanterns filling up the sky above, the whole festival is incredibly special and something you must put on any bucket list you have.For those considering coming to Chiang Mai during the festival you should book early as the hotels fill up fast at this time of the year.

20. Visit The San Kamphaeng Hot Springs

Nestled within a wooded area and surrounded by mountains are the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. At the hot springs are mineral baths and a traditional mineral water swimming pool. The waters in the springs have Curative powers due to the high sulfur content in the water. Whilst you are there pampering yourself you can also take advantage or a full body Thai massage or bizarrely you can buy eggs to boil in the water for your lunch.

21. Have A Traditional Khantoke Dinner

Chiang Mai is famous for its rich traditional Lanna culture so when in Chiang Mai take advantage of a Khantoke dinner. When you arrive at the dinner you will be seated on the floor at a large round table (called a toke) and traditional northern Thai food will be served. During the meal you will be treated to traditional Lanna entertainment. Depending on where you choose to go for your dinner you may also be treated to some classical Thai orchestral music.

22. Party At The Songkran festival

Songkran happens each year between the 13th and 15th April and is the Thailand traditional New Year celebration. However Chiang Mai takes the celebration to another level where the celebrations can go on for five or six days and sometimes even longer than that. Songkran has a religious meaning with Thai’s believing that the throwing of water will cleanse your sins. Chiang Mai can often come to a complete standstill during the celebrations with people standing at the side of the roads with buckets of water ready to soak every passer-by. People will often visit the many temples during the festival to pray and give food to the monks living there. You will see many images of Buddha paraded through the streets during the festival with locals throwing water over them, this is also to help with the cleansing of sins.

23. Get Involved With The Nightlife.

Chiang Mai is full of bars and clubs and with prices being a lot lower than Bangkok it is worth getting your partying done here. Nimmanhaeman Road has a very large number of trendy bars but is also home to The Monkey Club and The Warm-Up Cafe, both of which are frequented by locals as well as tourists. Thapae Gate is another popular area for drinking with Zoe’s bar filling up each night and the drinking carrying on until the early hours. In Chiang Mai it is very common to buy a bottle of spirit and sit down with soda or coke and an ice bucket, all the bars sell spirits by the bottle and it is the cheapest way to have an evening’s drinking.

24. Enjoy A Traditional Thai Massage From An Ex-prisoner

Wherever you look in Chiang Mai you are likely to see a massage parlor, most of the massage parlors are very reputable with fully qualified staff but maybe it is time for a slightly different experience. The Woman’s Prison in Chiang Mai has various programs that are run where the soon to be released women are taught life skills and one such program is the ex-prisoner massage parlor that has been set up. The women are watched over at all times without it being intrusive and is an excellent opportunity for the women as finding their way into work after prison life is over is often incredibly difficult.

25. Shop Till You Drop At The Weekend Market

Also known as the Sunday Market or the Walking Market this is probably the most famous of all the markets in Chiang Mai, it opens every Sunday starting at Thapae Gate and running along the entire length of the Ratchadamnoen Road. A lot of the stalls on the market sell handmade goods and as you walk through the market it is not uncommon to see the stall holders sitting down and carrying on with their handicraft in-between selling their goods. Dotted along the Ratchadamnoen Road are several Buddhist temples, they usually open their forecourts to various food sellers who cook the food in front of you as you wait. If that was not enough in between the stalls you will see a plethora of street artists singing, dancing or performing some other kind of act.

25 Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai (Thailand):

• Take A Visit To Doi Suthep
• Be Fashionable At Nimmanhaemin Road
• Take A Trip Down The San kamphaeng Road
• Visit Doi Inthanon National Park
• Eat Khao Soi
• Shop Again At Warorot Market
• Take A Boat Trip On The Mae Ping River
• Stop For Coffee At The Cat Café
• Stop at Chiang Mai’s Very Own Grand Canyon
• Have Fun Bartering At The Night Bazaar
• Make A Visit To Wat Phra Singh
• Check Out The Ruins Of Wat Chedi Luang
• Relax At Bai Orchid And Butterfly Farm
• Visit The Long Neck Karen Tribe
• Hail a Songthaew
• Participate In The Loi Krathong Festival
• Visit The San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
• Have A Traditional Khantoke Dinner
• Party At The Songkran festival
• Get Involved With The Nightlife.
• Enjoy A Traditional Thai Massage From An Ex-prisoner
• Shop Till You Drop At The Weekend Market

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Chiang Mai Tours & Travel Packages

Charming Chiang Mai emits a provincial town, laid-back air belying its status as Thailand ‘s northern capital and second largest city, and rests in a verdant river valley, surrounded by forested mountains dotted with ethnic communities. Once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, the rich legacies of Lanna culture are still evident today.

This ‘Rose of the North’ offers so much to see and do; Chiang Mai tours cover the multitude of stunning Buddhist temples, including sacred Wat Phra That atop Doi Suthep Mountain, historic Old City and night bazaar. The picturesque mountainous countryside beyond provides more attractions and pursuits best experienced on our Chiang Mai private tours. Don’t miss the pioneering Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and interactions with retired elephants in a natural and ethical environment.

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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14. Thai and Akha Cooking Class in Chiang Mai

15. Best seller!! Amazing Night tour, Doi Suthep + Wat umong - Top Must visit!

16. Full-Day Chiang Dao Kayaking, Caving, and Jungle Tour from Chiang Mai

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18. Cooking Morning Class Chiang Mai Visit Organic Garden and Market

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20. Full day car hire with private English speaking driver

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22. Doi Inthanon Private Tour with Trek & Lunch from Chiang Mai

23. ½ day Doi Suthep Park Downhill Biking, Guided & Self Guided

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Chiang Mai Travel Guide

Orientation, Eating, Attractions, Nightlife, and Markets

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Thailand's beloved northern capital of Chiang Mai attracts nearly 2 million foreign tourists a year -- double the entire metropolitan area population of just under one million people!

Even with horrendous traffic, the vibe and pace of life in Chiang Mai is far slower and more relaxed than that of Bangkok. The mountain setting can be felt even when you can't see the green surroundings.

Chiang Mai is widely considered a cultural hub; you'll encounter more beautiful temples than you have time to explore. A multitude of cooking, massage, and language schools are available. The large population of artists, writers, and creative types -- both Thai and foreign -- who have settled in Chiang Mai caused the city to be considered for UNESCO Creative City status. Read about getting from Bangkok to Chiang Mai .

Orientation

While the city sprawls far beyond, most of the tourist action in Chiang Mai is centered around the 'old city' or within the city walls. Forming a perfect square, a moat surrounds the old city; Tapae Gate on the east side of the square could be considered the epicenter and focal point for tourism.

Tapae Road, the major artery into the city, runs east through the gate to the Ping River. Thanon Chang Khlan branches off of Tapae Road and is located about a 20-minute walk outside of the gate; there you will find Chiang Mai's touristy-yet-famous night market as well as many shops and restaurants.

The inner parts of the old city away from the moat roads are a confusing tangle of small sois (streets) and shortcut alleys that are sometimes home to pleasant cafes and out-of-the-way places.

Getting Around in Chiang Mai.

Anyone reasonably fit can get around Chiang Mai easily on foot, although the broken sidewalks can get busy with pedestrians, street carts, and random obstacles. Alternatively, you can jump inside one of the many circulating songthaews (truck taxis) or grab a tuk-tuk .

You can walk from Tapae Gate to the night market in around 20 minutes. Some temples and sites outside of the city will require transportation. If you're comfortable with driving in the traffic, renting a scooter is a cheap way to get around. Bicycles can be rented from many of the guesthouses.

• See more about getting around Chiang Mai.
• When you're ready to leave, learn about getting from Chiang Mai to Bangkok .

Chiang Mai Accommodation

From family-run guesthouses tucked away on quiet streets to high-rise hotels, accommodation in Chiang Mai varies widely in budget and quality. You will generally find many more inexpensive places to stay around Chiang Mai than in Bangkok or the islands in Thailand .

The Songkran water festival and the Loi Krathong festival both bring Chiang Mai to full capacity; finding a room in the old city can be nearly impossible if you do not book in advance!

Michael Rheault / Getty Images

Eating in Chiang Mai

With so many cooking schools, creative people, and Lanna/Burmese influences, it's no surprise that you'll find great food around Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai has an abundance of vegetarian eateries, organic juice shops, and lots of international food options.

Perhaps the cheapest and most enjoyable way to experience local food is to eat street food from the many markets and carts. Try the large market area and many carts located along the moat at Chiang Mai Gate in the southeast corner of the city. You'll also find street food all along Moon Muang -- the main road just inside Tapae Gate.

Markets in Chiang Mai

• The Night Bazaar: The night market is held each evening on Thanon Chang Khlan outside of the city moat, however, don't expect much more than high prices and pushy people on a very crowded sidewalk. The bazaar starts up around 5 p.m. and finishes at 11 p.m.
• Weekend Markets: The weekend markets in Chiang Mai are crowded, but just as many locals come out to socialize and to walk aimlessly while grazing on small treats and snacks. Even if buying souvenirs isn't your thing, you'll still find street performers, cheap food, and a lively atmosphere. The Saturday market is held on Thanon Wualai on the southern edge of the old city and runs south outside of the walls, while the Sunday market starts at Tapae Gate and runs into the old city. The Saturday market tends to be a little more local oriented as fewer tourists accidentally walk up onto the market.
• Warorot Market: Warorot Market is located outside of the old city near Thanon Chang Moi and Tapae Road, around a 20-minute walk outside of Tapae Gate. You'll find practically no tourists and much lower prices on local goods between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Negotiation is pertinent for not getting scammed at the markets! Read the ins and outs of markets in Asia and how to negotiate prices .

Chiang Mai Attractions

While you can spend days just exploring Chiang Mai temples for free , lots of activities can be booked for attractions outside of the city; the price always includes free transportation.

From the zoo and multiple theater/dinner shows to more extreme adventures such as the Gibbon Experience zipline or Jungle Bungy jump, you'll probably run out of time and money before you can see them all!

Trekking and visiting hilltribe villages are popular activities to do in Chiang Mai; various treks into the mountains can range from easy, one-night trips to longer adventures.

Chiang Mai Nightlife

Chiang Mai isn't exactly a 'party' city. While some clubs get special permission one way or another to stay open later, city ordinance states that bars shut down at 1 a.m. You cannot purchase alcohol from minimarts after midnight, and the sitting areas around the moat as well as the large square at Tapae Gate have been declared 'no alcohol zones' with heavy fines.

• See more about what to expect from Chiang Mai nightlife .

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Your Trip to Chiang Mai: The Complete Guide

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Chiang Mai Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 13, 2024

Chiang Mai is the largest and most popular city in northern Thailand. It’s the main base of activities for most travelers who come up north and is one of the most visited cities in Thailand for travelers of all types.

The city is brimming with culture, incredible food markets, dozens of beautiful temples, a relaxed vibe, beautiful landscapes. In recent years, it’s become one of the main digital nomad hubs in Southeast Asia so it’s easy to meet other travelers here.

While you can find a lot of delicious Western food, cafes, and bars all around the city, the historic Thai-ness of the city hasn’t disappeared. There are plenty of stunning temples and lively markets to entertain as you explore.

Be sure to budget extra time when you visit Chiang Mai and as it’s easy to get “stuck” here. Lots of people plan to stay for a few days and end up staying for a few weeks or more! There’s magic to this city.

This travel guide to Chiang Mai can help you plan your trip, save money, and ensure you have an amazing visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Chiang Mai

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Chiang Mai

1. Visit the Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park rescues abused and injured elephants and other animals from around the country. It’s a sanctuary where you can visit for a day or spend a week volunteering. While you can no longer feed or bathe the elephants, you can still walk among them and see them chill out, play, and feed themselves. It’s a phenomenal experience where you’ll get to learn about the elephants and conservation efforts in the country. A one-day visit starts at 2,500 THB and needs to be booked in advance on the park’s website. Be make sure to book your trip in advance as it’s super popular and space fills up fast!

2. Tour the temples

There are hundreds of beautiful Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai, some dating as far back as the 13th century. The main ones worth seeing are Wat Chiang Man, (the city’s oldest one), Wat Phra Singh, Wat Suan Dok (or Flower Garden Temple), Wat Chedi Luang, and the Northern Indian-inspired Wat Jet Yot. As with most places of worship, dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees for men and women), wear shoes that are easy to put on and take off as no shoes are allowed in temples.

3. Visit Wat Doi Suthep

Doi Suthep is the mountain just outside Chiang Mai which holds its most famous temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (the pagoda supposedly contains relics of Buddha himself). Perched at the top of 306 stairs flanked by 2 giant serpent sculptures (there’s a funicular available too though!), it offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and Chiang Mai, plus at 6pm each day, you can watch the monks chant. Entry is 30 THB for tourists and there’s a 20 THB fee for the funicular.

4. Bargain at the night bazaar

Chiang Mai is the main handicraft center of Thailand and the night bazaar is the largest in the country. It’s a sprawling maze of stalls on either side of several streets but if you get to the corner of Loi Kroh and Changklan roads that’s a fair place to start and get oriented. Everything is sold at non-fixed prices so you can bargain the night away for the best deals on clothing, jewellery, paintings, antiques and grab some food across the main street at the Kalare night bazaar. Open daily from 6pm-12am, although individual stalls may have slightly differing hours.

5. Celebrate the Yi Peng Festival

This iconic annual three day festival unique to Northern Thailand takes place around the full moon in November. Sometimes referred to as the ‘Lantern Festival’ or the ‘Festival of Lights’, it’s marked by many ceremonies but most notably on the third and final night by citizens releasing thousands of paper lanterns into the air, which symbolically carry prayers, bad luck and all that people wish to let go towards the heavens. You can watch the lanterns be released from Nawarat Bridge or the Silver Bridge. It is a beautiful, memorable experience.

Other Things to See and Do in Chiang Mai

1. try ziplining.

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush and some time in (and above) lush forests, go ziplining. Chiang Mai has many operators offering beginner and advanced zip lining courses including multiple platforms, sky bridges, abseiling options and more. Jungle Flight is the home of one of Thailand’s longest zipline courses and Kingkong Smile offers both a short and a long course. The sites tend to be 1-1.5 hours’ drive from Chiang Mai into the mountains, but most operators include a return shuttle trip in the booking fee. Ziplining starts at about 2,400 THB.

2. Go jungle trekking

Chiang Mai is the main starting point for all sorts of jungle trekking tours. I like the three-day ones the best because, the longer the tour, the more interesting and secluded places you visit. Most multi-day treks include homestays with local families and some a bamboo raft trip down a river or some time at a waterfall. Be careful with whom you sign up, as many guides simply walk with you and don’t tell you much about the land or wildlife. Moreover, if you visit a tribal village, make sure the money stays with the villagers, and that they aren’t being exploited, which unfortunately happens a lot. Be sure to ask your accommodation for suggestions. Don’t book in advance.

3. Take a cooking class

Chiang Mai is the most popular place in Thailand for cooking classes, offering a variety of classes and amazing deals. You’ll often begin your class by going to the market and learning about Thai produce before heading back to the kitchen to cook a few dishes. Some classes even take place on a farm or location with their own vegetable garden, like Grandma’s Cooking School which includes a tour of the organic garden before the cooking class. Every class ends with eating everything you’ve prepared so bring an appetite! Prices range from 1,000-1,800 THB per person.

4. Eat a kantoke dinner

This traditional Thai event generally takes place on special occasions, like holidays, festivals, and weddings. At a kantoke dinner, you experience both Northern Thai food and culture at the same time. At this event, visitors are seated on the floor around a circular tray laden with Northern dishes (called a kantoke , giving the tradition its name). While you eat, you’ll watch traditional Thai and Northern dances and other cultural performances. The Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center is the premier place to go, with tickets costing 690 THB (including dinner).

5. Cruise down the river

Cruise around rural Mae Ping on a two-hour journey that takes you past beautiful scenery around Chiang Mai. Enjoy the scenic vistas, stop to visit a local farm and its herb and fruit gardens, and relax with an onboard Thai dinner. Mae Ping River Cruise is the main company offering tours. A two-hour cruise is 480 THB, while dinner cruises start at 650 THB.

6. Chat with monks

Monk chats are a chance for visitors to learn about the country’s religion and culture, while for young monks it’s an opportunity to practice their English. It’s a popular cultural activity that occurs at many of the major temples throughout the city, including Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Suan Dok, as well as the MCU Buddhist University. Hours vary based on location.

7. Go whitewater rafting

The Mae Taeng River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting, with rapids ranging from levels two to four (easy to advanced). Keep in mind that the river is at its most intense during the rainy season, between August-October, and tours might sometimes be postponed if levels are dangerous. 8 Adventures offers tours for 2,500-3,000 THB per person, which include transportation from Chiang Mai and lunch.

8. Browse Warorot Market

This historic market opened in the early 20th century and is the largest and oldest in the city. It’s a great place to get a more local shopping experience and grab some fresh produce, dried foods, specialty snacks and clothes. There are even flower vendors outside the market and street food stalls that stay open into the evening. The food stalls are located on the first floor, while clothing and other goods are on the second and third floors. Located near the river, it’s open daily from 6am-7pm.

9. Visit The Highland People Discovery Museum

Highlighting Thailand’s ten minority hill tribes, this ethnographic museum offers informational videos and exhibits on each tribe’s lifestyle, beliefs, clothing and jewelry items (as well as a gift shop where you can purchase a few authentic items too!). The 4-storey museum building is surrounded by a lake and outside the gardens host life-size models of traditional huts of various tribes you can take a stroll through at your leisure. Set aside at least 2-3 hours to get a good feel of what the museum has to offer. It’s open Monday-Friday and admission is free (donations are welcome).

10. Climb up the Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls

While a little outside of the city, this makes for a great day trip. The falls, due to the type of limestone they’re made of, is almost sticky and allow you to climb up the cascading water. The rocks themselves are interesting, looking a bit like fluffy clouds. Not only is it a neat experience, it’s also a great workout! Pack a picnic and a change of clothes, find a spot, and “stick” around for lunch. You can self-drive or take a taxi and agree a time for your driver to come back for you, or negotiate a ride with one of the drivers on site. Admission is free and basic shower and toilet facilities are available.

  For more information on other cities and islands in Thailand, check out the guides below:

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Ko Chang Travel Guide
• Ko Lipe Travel Guide
• Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide
• Koh Phi Phi Travel Guide
• Phuket Travel Guide

Chiang Mai Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Hostels start at 240 THB per night large 10-12-bed dorms, while smaller dorm rooms with 4-6 beds cost around 280-429 THB. Private rooms start at 1,000 THB for a double room with an ensuite bathroom. All hostels include free Wi-Fi, and most hostels include free breakfast and air-conditioning. Many offer free bikes for their guests as well.

Budget hotel prices – Centrally-located two-star hotels and guesthouses start at 450-625 THB per night for a room with free Wi-Fi, hot water, a private bathroom, and air conditioning. Most hotels also have outdoor swimming pools and offer free or discounted bikes for their guests to use.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms in apartments for 350 THB. There’s also a wide selection of entire apartments/homes starting at 500-900 THB per night.

Average cost of food – Thai cuisine uses many ingredients to create layers of flavor in a dish. Typical fresh spices and herbs used include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, shrimp paste, and fish sauce.

Rice and noodles are central to Thai cuisine, while meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood. Some popular dishes include tom yum goong (hot and sour soup with shrimp), massaman curry, pad thai (a stir-fried noodle dish), som tam (spicy papaya salad), kao phad (fried rice), khao man gai (rice with boiled chicken), and satay (grilled meat on skewers, served with a peanut dipping sauce).

Chiang Mai’s most famous dish is khao soi , a yellow curry noodle soup with pickled cabbage and your choice of chicken or beef.

Chiang Mai has some of the best street food in Thailand, with dishes like khao soi costing 50 THB and snacks costing 20 THB. Most meals at a casual sit-down Thai restaurant cost 80-125 THB.

Western food is more expensive, starting around 170-195 THB for a main dish. A burger is 210 THB, pasta is 180-245 THB, and pizza is around 250 THB.

When it comes to drinking, going to bars can be pricey, with the cheapest local beers costing about 95 THB each. To save some money, you can buy beers from 7-Eleven for half that.

For non-alcoholic drinks, a cappuccino or fresh juice is 65 THB, and soda is 35 THB.

Some good places to eat are Khao Soi Khun Yai, Dada Kafe, Khao Soy Maesai, Aum Vegetarian, Dash, Musashi Sushi Bar, the Chiang Mai Gate Market, and the Sunday market that cuts through the old city (you can’t miss it)!

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 550 THB. This gets you basic staples like rice, veggies, eggs, and some meat.

Backpacking Chiang Mai Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget, expect to spend about 975 THB per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking or eating cheap street food, using local transportation like songthaews and public buses, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free and cheap activities like temple visits and wandering the markets.

On a mid-range budget, expect to pay 1,875 THB per day. On this budget, you can stay in a private Airbnb or cheap guesthouse, eat out for all your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around and do more activities and tours like a cooking class or hiking excursion.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,725 THB per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take taxis everywhere, and do whatever activities you want (including visiting the elephant reserve). This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in THB.

Chiang Mai Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Chiang Mai can be as cheap or expensive as you want (like most of Thailand). But if you stick to the local markets, avoid the fancy organic restaurants that have popped up, and stay in the old city, you can save money easily! Here are some other ways to save money in Chiang Mai:

• Bargain hard – You have to bargain hard at the markets here. Don’t take the first price and don’t be afraid to walk away. They inflate prices greatly here since Chiang Mai is such a popular shopping destination for tourists.
• Eat from the street stalls – Food from street vendors in Thailand is some of the best Thai food I have ever had, and it’s so cheap it’s ridiculous. The locals eat here and you should too.
• Take the songthaew – At 20-40 THB for anywhere in the city, songthaews are one of the cheapest ways to get around. They go everywhere and run all night. There’s no reason to take a taxi around the city.
• Take the bus – At 20 THB per ride (and cheaper with a day pass), these modern public buses are, along with songthaews, one of the cheapest ways to get around the city.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to stay and who can share their insider tips and advice. It’s the best way to save money on accommodation and get insider tips and advice.
• Book group excursions – When booking your day tours, multi-day tours, cooking classes, etc., try to book it as a group so the price per person gets reduced. Traveling alone? Make friends and book a tour with your hostel.
• Use a water bottle with a purifier – It isn’t safe to drink tap water in Chiang Mai, and although buying bottled water is cheap, it does add up. Instead, pick up a LifeStraw , which have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s good for the environment too!)

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Looking for budget-friendly accommodation in Chiang Mai? Here are some of my favorite places to stay in the city:

• Kodchasri B&B
• Smile Robotist Hostel
• Hostel Lullaby
• The Royal Guest House
• Chang Puak Hotel

How to Get Around Chiang Mai

Songthaew – Songthaews are the most common mode of local transportation in Chiang Mai. These are converted pickup trucks with two rows of seats and how locals travel. Just flag one down in the street and tell the driver where you’re going. You can get to just about anywhere in the central city for 40 THB.

Buses – Until recently, there weren’t public buses in Chiang Mai, but that all changed in 2018 with the launch of the RTC Smart City Bus network. At 20 THB per ride, it’s the cheapest and easiest way to get around the city, including to and from the airport. The buses are clean, modern, and have free Wi-Fi. If you plan to use the bus a lot, you can get an unlimited day pass for 180 THB or a three-day pass for 400 THB.

Bicycle – Chiang Mai has a new dockless bike-sharing system called Anywheel. Each ride starts at 10 THB, while a monthly pass starts at 200 THB. Many hostels and guesthouses also offer their guests free bicycles to use.

Ridesharing – Use the Grab app to request a private ride. It works just like Uber and is one of the most popular ways to get around in Southeast Asia.

Motorbike/scooter rental – Motorbikes and scooters are a common way to get around, though it can be a harrowing experience to drive one in Chiang Mai. Keep in mind that traffic flows on the left in Thailand. A motorbike or scooter costs 100-500 THB per day, with cheaper deals for weekly and monthly rentals.

When to Go to Chiang Mai

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is between October-April when temperatures are warm but not stifling. You’ll still want to pack a sweater in case the evenings cool off. The average daytime temperature is around 25°C (77°F), but it can dip as low as 15°C (59°F) at night. Keep in mind, however, that this is peak tourist season so book your accommodation in advance if you want to find the best deals.

In April and May, things start heating up. Temperatures can soar as high as 40°C (104°F), and you’ll want to pack light clothing and plenty of sunscreen. If you’re not used to such heat, you might find it uncomfortable for sightseeing.

The rainy season takes place from June to October when temperatures cool down to 24-32°C (75-90°F) but the humidity rises. Chiang Mai doesn’t get as much rain as Southern Thailand, but you’ll still want to be prepared. It rains for maybe an hour each day, and only rarely for days on end.

How to Stay Safe in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. People are nice and helpful and you’re unlikely to get into trouble. Violent crime against tourists is rare.

Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Chiang Mai so always keep your valuables secure and out of reach. This includes when on the bus/public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe exploring the city, though the common precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

There are some common scams to be aware of here, such as the motorbike scam. This is when you rent a bike and the vendors try to charge you for damage to your bike rental — even though there is no damage. Also, sometimes taxis will try to charge you extra so always make sure you use a reputable taxi (have your hotel/hostel call one if you need one).

You can read this post on common travel scams to avoid if you want to learn more.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Chiang Mai Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Chiang Mai Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Thailand travel and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hostels in Chiang Mai

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Thailand

Is Bangkok Safe to Visit?

The Complete Guide to Diving in Koh Tao

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

CHIANG MAI TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget, Itinerary, Things to Do

I will always remember Chiang Mai as the place where I felt like a backpacker for the first time.

I was backpacking around Southeast Asia when I first set foot in Chiang Mai. It wasn’t my first stop, but it was here when I found myself alone for the first time. In Singapore and across Malaysia, I was traveling with Vins. In Siem Reap and Bangkok, a Thailand-based friend joined me. It wasn’t until I was on the overnight train to Chiang Mai when solitude finally kicked in. I was traveling alone in a foreign country for the first time in my life. I was nervous, dreading the possibility of realizing that this whole travel thing wasn’t really for me.

But Chiang Mai turned out to be an ideal place to have one’s solo backpacking debut. Since that trip, Chiang Mai has become my favorite destination in Thailand.

Chiang Mai: Essential Travel Information

Chiang Mai has all the right qualities of a backpacking hub in perfect balance. It has a tourist-friendly atmosphere, vibrant markets, irresistible cuisine, affordable cost of living, and warm, helpful locals. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand with lots of commercial establishments, but it retains a peaceful, traditional vibe. No wonder it has become one of the most popular bases for digital nomads in Asia.

Chiang Mai was the capital of Lan Na, a kingdom that occupied what is now Northern Thailand from the 1292 to 1775. Chiang Mai literally means “new city,” a reference to its new status after replacing Chiang Rai as capital. For centuries, it was a walled city surrounded by a defensive moat to keep away the invaders. Today, the walls remain standing, marking the boundaries of the city’s historic core called the “Old City.” (Yes, it’s the Old City of a city whose name literally means New City. Teehee.) Outside of the Old City walls, a more modern commercial area sprawls. For travelers, Chiang Mai is best known for the countless temples that fill its streets and crown its mountains, and its lantern festival that illuminates the night sky every November.

Here are more facts about Chiang Mai.

• Language : Thai. Their language can be quite daunting to non-native speakers, especially its lengthy words and tongue-twisting pronunciations, but as with every other language, it only intimidates in the beginning. English isn’t widely spoken, but what the locals lack in English fluency, they make up for with their friendly attitude toward tourists.
• Currency : Thai Baht (THB, ฿). THB100 is roughly USD3, EUR 2.6, SGD 4.2, PHP 164 (as of August 2018).
• Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments only accept cash.
• Electricity Info : 220V. Most common sockets are sort of a combination of Types A and C. They have two holes that can accept both flat and round pins. This type of socket can take plugs that are Types A, C, and F.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai

November to mid-February , because of the mild weather and festivities. However, this is also the peak season, so prices are a bit higher, which isn’t much. Even in high season, Chiang Mai remains a generally affordable destination.

Chiang Mai enjoys a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: dry, hot, and wet. But don’t take it by name.

• Dry Season (mid-October to mid-February). This season sees pleasant, comfortable weather, ideal for sightseeing. This is also the peak season so expect to share the city with a big crowd, especially around Christmas and during the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, which usually falls in mid-November. Although it is also called “Cool Season,” the cool part is often noticeable at night. It can still get pretty hot during the day.
• Hot Season (mid-February to mid-June). Avoid it if you can help it. It can get too hot for comfort, sometimes going over 40C in May. One thing you should also be aware of is the so-called Burning Season, which happens from late February to mid-April, when farmers in the region burn the waste from their harvests, filling the air with smoke. This slash-and-burn practice coupled with forest fires (both natural and intentional) creates a layer of haze that reaches the city. If you have asthma, this season is not for you.
• Wet Season (mid-June to mid-October). It’s the rainy season but it doesn’t mean it’s raining every day or all day. It rains often but they don’t usually last long. My first visit in Chiang Mai was in September and I barely noticed the showers. It’s always pretty cloudy but it remains humid. The rain and the clouds keep the temperatures from going to scorching levels, which is nice.

How to Get to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai and the greater Northern Thailand region are served by Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) . It is the fourth busiest airport in Thailand, next only to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, and Phuket.

Over two dozen airports fly from and to Chiang Mai Airport. Most of them connect the city to the rest of Thailand, Southeast Asia, and China.

Many travelers access the city by land from Bangkok as part of a more elaborate multi-city Thailand or ASEAN itinerary. For this, the most commonly used gateway is Chiang Mai Train Station, about 3km east of the city center.

If you’re coming from Manila, there are no direct flights but you still have plenty of options. The most economical is to fly to Bangkok. AirAsia, Cebu Pacific, and Philippine Airlines all offer affordable fares. From Bangkok, you can either take the train or another flight to Chiang Mai.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Plane

From Bangkok, you can fly to Chiang Mai with another low-cost carrier. The cheapest flights are usually operated by Thai Lion Air, Thai AirAsia, Thai VietJet Air, and Nok Air. You can find fares for as low as ฿775 (USD24, PHP1270).

Here’s a quick flight scan on Traveloka.

It is important to note that Bangkok is served by two airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). If you’re connecting in Bangkok, make sure you’re flying to Bangkok and to Chiang Mai via the same airport so you don’t need to switch.

Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train or Bus

If traveling by train, the first thing you should do is to get to Hua Lamphong Station (aka Bangkok Railway Station), where trains bound for Chiang Mai start their journey. If you’re coming from Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport, here’s how to get to Hua Lamphong: Airport to Hua Lamphong .

At Hua Lamphong Station, you have a choice to ride a daytime train or an overnight sleeper train.

The journey to Chiang Mai takes 11 to 16 hours, depending on what train you’re taking. The daytime seat-only express Train #7 takes 11 hours, leaving Bangkok at 8:30am and arrives at 7:30pm. Fare is around ฿890 (USD27.32, PHP1460).

Hence, I recommend the overnight sleeper train so you won’t waste a day and you actually save a hotel night.

All overnight sleeper trains have second class berths, but not all have first class. Some trains are air-conditioned; others use fan only. Double check before booking.

• Second-class fare: from ฿830 (fan only) to ฿1300 (air-conditioned)
• First-class fare: around ฿1753 (USD54, PHP2875)

What I took was Train #13, which left Hua Lamphong at 7:35pm and arrived in Chiang Mai the next morning. Our train got delayed but it was a good experience overall. Just bring snacks onboard in case you get hungry.

Daytime and overnight buses are also available, leaving Morchit Station and arriving at Chiang Mai Arcade. Fare is from ฿530 to ฿830.

✅ SEARCH FOR BUS OR TRAIN TO CHIANG MAI HERE: BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI

Chiang Mai Airport to City Center

Chiang Mai Airport is just around 5km from the Old City, about 10-15 minutes away. Here are your options:

• By Airport Taxi. Fare is fixed at ฿160 to anywhere within the city center except the Arcade Bus Terminal (฿200). That’s per taxi, not per person. The taxi can accommodate up to 5 passengers. If you’re a bigger group, you can charter a bigger taxi for ฿260 instead.
• By Metered Taxi. Depending on which part of the city center you’re going, fare should be around ฿110 plus ฿50 airport surcharge.
• By Shared Taxi. Locally called songthaew , it’s like a small truck turned into a passenger service taxi. (Much like the jeepneys in the Philippines.) I’m not sure how much the fare is exactly but it should be between ฿40 and ฿60. Expect them to wait for other passengers. Some drivers will also try to convince you to just rent the whole vehicle for a rate that is higher than the taxi. I fell victim to it once because I was a newbie traveler at the time and didn’t know any better.
• By Tuktuk. Fare: ฿120-160, depending on your negotiation skills.

Chiang Mai Train Station to Old City

The train station is only 3km from the city center. Here are your options:

• By Taxi. Fare: around ฿150, depending on which part of the city is your destination.
• By Tuktuk. Fare: ฿120-150, depending on your negotiation skills and where in the city you’re going.
• By Bus. Take the City Bus B1. Fare: ฿15.
• By Songthaew (shared taxi). Fare: ฿30 or more, again, depending on where you’re going.

Expect the songthaew to wait for other passengers. Like at the airport, some drivers will also try to convince you to just rent the whole vehicle for ฿150 or higher. Don’t. Just share with other passengers.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

The best places to stay in Chiang Mai are in and around the Old City and near Night Bazaar. In both areas, you’ll have quick access to transportation and an almost endless array of restaurants, bars, shops, tour operators, and temples.

Lodging is cheap in Chiang Mai. This is one of the main reasons why this city is a clear favorite among digital nomads from all around the world. Even I, who lived in the province of a developing country, find these rates unbelievable.

Top Chiang Mai Hostels

Here are the top hostels and dorms in Chiang Mai as ranked by Agoda users.

• About A Bed Hostel Chiangmai. Check Rates & Availability .
• Eden Walking Street Hostel. Check Rates & Availability .
• Tanwa Hostel. Check Rates & Availability .
• The Entaneer Poshtel. Check Rates & Availability .
• Hoh Guesthouse. Check Rates & Availability .

Top Budget Hotels in Chiang Mai

• Little Guest House Hotel. Check Rates & Availability .
• Anumat Premium Budget Hotel. Check Rates & Availability .
• TCH Boutique Hotel. Check Rates & Availability .
• iWualai Hotel. Check Rates & Availability .
• Old City Wall Inn. Check Rates & Availability .

Search for more Chiang Mai Hotels

Internet connection in chiang mai.

If you’re the type who relies heavily on the Internet for directions and recommendations, you might want to get a local data SIM . You can book one from Klook and pick it up at Chiang Mai Airport . You can enjoy unlimited data for up to 8 days, with 3GB data allowance for maximum speed (throttles after 3GB is used up). The SIM also comes with ฿100 call credits, which is equivalent to 30 minutes.

How to Get Around Chiang Mai

Getting around Chiang Mai is easy. Within the Old City or from Old City to the night bazaar, you can just travel on foot. For longer distances, there are plenty of cheap transportation options to choose from.

• By Bicycle. Rent is ฿50-250 per day, depending on bike type. Find a shop that also offers a helmet even when it costs more.
• By Motorbike or Scooter. If you know how to drive a motorcycle and you have a license, this is a good option too. Rent is ฿150-200 per day for a regular motorbike. You’ll find shops offering lower rates and you can negotiate too. Prepare to leave a deposit.
• By Tuktuk. The fare varies depending on distance. From the Old City to the Night Bazaar, it should be between ฿50 and ฿100. Up to ฿150 if to the airport. An additional ฿20 surcharge is collected at night.
• By Songthaew. Fare is often ฿30 for short distances and ฿40-60 from within the city walls to outside, depending on the destination.
• By Grab. Grab operates in Chiang Mai, providing a better and often cheaper alternative to the taxi. If you’re not familiar with Grab, it’s a ride-sharing app just like Uber.
• By Tour Package. If you’re the type who wants a tour guide or don’t want to worry about anything else, you can just book a pre-arranged tour.

Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Chiang mai temple tour.

Dozens of temples mark the corners and streets of Chiang Mai’s Old City. Two of the most prominent are Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang , built in the 14th century to house the ashes of a king. You can easily visit most of them on your own because they stand within the walls of the historic center, near hostels, shops, and restaurants.

If you want to appreciate these temples better, you can join a group tour instead. A guide will explain the history and significance of these sites, making the experience more educational. Most tours also bundle these Old City temples with a visit to Doi Suthep , a mountain 15 km from the city center where another spectacular 14th-century Theravada temple is located.

Klook’s tour includes buffet lunch and roundtrip transfers. You can do a full-day tour. If you don’t have the luxury of time, you can opt with a morning or afternoon half-day tour instead.

Chiang Mai Food Trip

Thailand boasts one of the most internationally celebrated cuisines in the world. It’s also one of my two personal favorites. (The other one is Japanese.) What I like about the Thai’s food culture is that you don’t need to spend much to enjoy it. In Chiang Mai, kerbside cuisine rules the streets. Everywhere, you’ll find cheap eats.

Mobile pork barbeque carts roam around. Small kiosks serving irresistible plates of pad thai and drool-worthy bowls of tom yum are just a short walk away. And the weekend night market comes to life when lanes of food stalls begin taking shape.

Food tours are also available, if you want to learn what the go-to street food spots are from a local’s perspective.

Thai Cooking Class

If you want a more immersive take on the Thai culinary tradition, you can join a cooking class instead. Learn how to cook authentic dishes so you can prepare them yourself even when you’re back home! Like most cooking classes, you’ll have an instructor to guide you every step of the way.

You’ll never run out of cooking class choices in Chiang Mai. On Klook alone, there are at least four companies offering this activity. However, the cheapest and the most popular by far is the one organized by Mama Noi. The session begins with a visit to the local market to shop for ingredients. You’ll then move to the venue, where you’ll tour a small organic farm before the actual class begins.

You may opt to attend a full-day class or just stay for half a day (morning or evening).

Flight of the Gibbon Adventure

Chiang Mai has more than its share of zipline and forest adventure tours, and they all seem like they’re offering the same thing.

But the most popular is the one organized by Flight of the Gibbon . On Klook, while others have a few thousand bookings to date, Flight of the Gibbon dwarfs them with over 30,000 bookings and a perfect 5-star review rating.

The canopy tour will take zooming through the forest on a 5-km zipline, rappeling, and conquering sky bridges. Also included in the package is a set menu lunch or dinner at a waterfront restaurant. The catch is, it’s also a lot more expensive, more than twice the price of other similar tours. But if its popularity and user reviews are any indication, this tour is probably worth it.

Chiang Rai and Golden Triangle Tour

Chiang Mai is also a good base for travelers who wish to explore other parts of Northern Thailand. One of the destinations you can visit from the city is Chiang Rai , another ancient city and is home to the stunning White Temple , the 9-tier Wat Huay Plakang, and the Black House.

Most tour companies also include a stop in the Golden Triangle, the area where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park is often called “the Roof of Thailand” because it is the site of Doi Inthanon, the tallest mountain in the country. Situated 60 km from the city center, it is one of the top destinations among Chiang Mai visitors. The national park is home to the Karen and Hmong peoples, among others. Several waterfalls also make a splash here, including Wachiritharn Falls, Mae Ya Fall, and Mae Klang Falls.

To get here, you can rent a car and drive yourself. But for most tourists, joining a group tour is most beneficial. Group tours usually include a guide, roundtrip transfers, and a stop at the following:

• Wachiritharn Falls
• the King and Queen’s pagoda
• Angkha Nature Walk
• the summit of Doi Inthanon
• Royal Agricultural Station Inthanon
• Wat Phra Tard Sri Chom Thong
• Hmong village market

The tour also includes lunch at a local restaurant.

Night Markets

Aside from the Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai has a few more night markets for your shopping fix. If your visit happens to fall on a weekend, check out the Saturday Market and Sunday Market. Both are walking street make-shift markets that take form in the late afternoon and closes around midnight. The vibe resembles a street festival with lots of music, food, crafts, artwork, and other curious finds.

The Saturday Market occupies Wu Lai Road, while the Sunday Market fills Rachadamnoen Road. Although located in different parts of the city, the feel and items on sale are very similar.

If you miss out on these weekend markets, you may check out the Anusarn market at Charoen Prathet Road, which is open DAILY, from 11:30am until midnight.

Sample Chiang Mai Itinerary

Here’s a sample 4-day/3-night Chiang Mai itinerary. Note that it assumes you’re staying in the Old City and booking your tours via Klook. Feel free to make the necessary adjustments to match your flight or train schedule, preferences, and whatnot.

Day 1: ARRIVAL, NIGHT BAZAAR 12:30pm – Arrival at CNX Airport 01:30pm – Transfer to Old City: ฿60 02:00pm – Hotel check-in, rest 05:00pm – DIY Street food trip, ฿200 08:00pm – Night bazaar (or weekend market if weekend) 09:00pm – Lights out

The itinerary above will cost you at least ฿3600 (USD111, EUR95, SGD151, PHP5900) , excluding airfare and accommodations.

If you stay in a hostel dorm for ฿200 per night, prepare to shell out at least ฿4200 (USD129, EUR110, SGD176, PHP6880) , excluding airfare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is chiang mai safe.

Yes, Chiang Mai is generally safe. Of course, you should still use commom sense at all times and don’t flash your gadgets in the open or leave your valuables unattended.

Are there scams in Chiang Mai that we need to worry about?

Yes. The good news is, scams are not as rampant in Changmai as they are in Bangkok, Pattaya, or Phuket. The bad news is, they exist. The notorious jewel or gem scam is present in Chiang Mai, too. The modus operandi is, a local or an expat will approach and be friendly to you, and at one point they will try to convince you to visit a jewelry store. Some tuktuk drivers are in on it too. They will offer to tour you around and make a stop at a jewelry store, so book tours with a reputable operator.

Beware of ATM skimming. If you need to withdraw, use a machine that is inside a bank or a hotel. At night markets, beware of pickpockets.

As in any other city, be careful and vigilant. But don’t worry too much about it.

What is tipping policy in Chiang Mai?

Tipping is NOT mandatory in Chiang Mai, but it is surely appreciated. When eating at sit-down restaurants, a tip of 10% of the bill should be fine. You can also just round off your bill. For example, if your bill is ฿135, you can leave ฿150. Same with cabs. If the meter is ฿105, round it off to ฿110 or ฿120. At hotels, you can give ฿20-50 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room, depending on the number of pieces. For a massage, tip ฿50. For full-day tour guides, at least ฿200 is alright.

Where can I see elephants in Chiang Mai?

There are a lot of “sanctuaries” that offer close encounters with elephants, but most of them are not real sanctuaries. As far as ethical treatment of elephants are concerned, the one with the best reputation is Elephant Nature Park , an elephant rescue and rehabilitation center.

I can’t vouch for it because I have never tried any of them. But Elephant Nature Park is most recommended by my fellow bloggers for ethical reasons.

Where to exchange money in Chiang Mai?

I don’t know exactly which company offers the best rates in Chiang Mai. But if we base it on just the reputation, SuperRich is your best bet.

I didn’t exchange money in Chiang Mai because I converted more than enough when I was in Bangkok. I also exchanged at SuperRich in Bangkok.

What is the power socket used in Chiang Mai?

Most common sockets are sort of a combination of Types A and C. They have two holes that can accept both flat and round pins, the shape of two door knobs or rubber stamps facing each other. This type of socket can take plugs that are Types A, C, and F. If your plug has three pins, you will be needing an adaptor.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Foreigners holding passports issued by the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, United States, United Kingdom, Germany and 40+ other countries can enter Thailand visa-free , provided that they stay shorter than 30 days.

To see the complete list of countries, visit this: List of Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries

However, visitors must have the following upon entry:

• a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• return or onward ticket
• at least 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family or equivalent in other currencies, cash.

They don’t ask for show money all the time. Our team has been in and out of Thailand recently but none of us were asked how much we carry. But it would help to just comply, just in case.

It will also help to have a hotel reservation .

Note that if you’re not arriving by air, you’re only allowed to enter Thailand twice per year.

*Cover image purchased from Shutterstock 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣ • 8️⃣ • 3️⃣0️⃣

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Hai im Lyn this coming November me and my sister will visit Chiang Mai your blog is very useful for us . thank you for this information.

Yayyy! Chiang Mai is awesome! Happy planning! :)

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The former seat of the Lanna kingdom is a blissfully calm place to relax and recharge your batteries – in a city still firmly Thai in its atmosphere and attitude.

Best Things to Do

Leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Chiang Mai. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Overlooking the city from its mountain throne, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of northern Thailand's most sacred temples, and its founding legend is…

Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang isn't as grand as Wat Phra Singh, but its towering, ruined Lanna-style chedi (built in 1441) is much taller and the sprawling compound…

Wat Phra Singh

Chiang Mai's most revered temple, Wat Phra Singh is dominated by an enormous, mosaic-inlaid wí·hăhn (sanctuary). Its prosperity is plain to see from the…

Talat Warorot

Chiang Mai's oldest public market, Warorot (also spelt Waroros) is a great place to connect with the city's Thai soul. Alongside souvenir vendors you'll…

Wat Phan Tao

Without doubt the most atmospheric wát in the old city, this teak marvel sits in the shadow of Wat Chedi Luang. Set in a compound full of fluttering…

Wat Pha Lat

A hidden jungle temple tucked into the mountain along the way to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Old stone structures, intricate carvings, naga-flanked…

Lanna Folklife Museum

Set inside the former Provincial Court, dating from 1935, this imaginative museum re-creates Lanna village life in a series of life-size dioramas that…

Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham

Not to be confused with the small Wat Umong in the old city, this historic forest wát is famed for its sylvan setting and its ancient chedi, above a brick…

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The best things to do in chiang mai from night bazaars to nature walks.

Baan Kang Wat

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North Gate Jazz Co-Op

This compact jazz club tends to pack in as many musicians as it does patrons, with local and visiting instrumentalists offering nightly sets and…

Sunday Walking Street

On Sunday afternoon Th Ratchadamnoen is taken over by the boisterous Sunday Walking Street, which feels even more animated than Th Wualai's Saturday…

Wat Srisuphan

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Akha Ama Cafe

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Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

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Chiang Mai's best chicken emerges daily from the grills at this tiny cafe near Wat Phra Singh. The menu runs to salads and soups, but most people just…

Saturday Walking Street

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Riverside Bar & Restaurant

Almost everyone ends up at Riverside at some point in their Chiang Mai stay. Set in an old teak house, it feels like a countryside reimagining of a Hard…

Talat Ton Lam Yai

Adjacent to Talat Warorot, Talat Ton Lam Yai morphs from a covered household market into an animated flower market (gàht dòrk mái), flanking the river on…

Wat Suan Dok

Built on a former flower garden in 1373, this important monastery enshrines one half of a sacred Buddha relic; the other half was transported by white…

Wat Umong Maha Therachan

This historic wát is in the heart of the old city. Though it was first constructed in 1367 and boasts some very old, Lanna-style chedis, it's also worth a…

Wat Bupparam

This highly ornate temple shows the clear influence of the Burmese teak merchants who immigrated to Chiang Mai during the 19th century. The eye-catching…

Wat Chet Yot

This wát was established by King Tilokarat in 1455 as part of an effort to prevent a predicted decline in Buddhism. It still has much of its original…

Thapae East

An atmospheric and intimate red-brick house where a diverse array of musicians perform throughout the week. There's also an adjacent hostel, a craft store…

Wat Phra That Doi Kham

Reached via a steep naga stairway through the forest, this handsome wát looms above the city from the hillside above Royal Park Rajapruek. With its gilded…

Talat Muang Mai

Chiang Mai's main wholesale fruit market is a riot of activity every morning, when enormous cargoes of mangoes, durians, rambutans, longans, watermelons,…

Royal Park Rajapruek

This sprawling formal park has 23 themed gardens donated by international governments, along with nine Thai gardens and six 'corporate' gardens. It sounds…

Planning Tools

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Transportation

From túk-túks (autorickshaws) to rót daangs and walking to buses, it's easy to get around Chiang Mai. Here's how to do it.

Free Things to Do

Chiang Mai's known for being budget-friendly with lots to see and do for free. Here's a guide to exploring without spending a Bhat

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4-Day Best of Chiang Mai Tour

This itinerary covers the must-see attractions in Chiang Mai - the iconic mountain, Doi Suthep, the amazing Doi Inthanon National Park, and an elephant experience in the jungle. We highly recommend it for couples and families with children.

Our private tour will offer you the opportunity to take a spiritual tour in the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple and appreciate the beauty of Doi Suthep without any crowds in the late afternoon, have a memorable elephant caring experience in our selected sanctuary, which ranks as the top one in TripAdvisor, take a gentle walk through the famous Ang Ka Nature Trail, and visit a local hill tribe village in Doi Inthanon National Park.

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• Discover the iconic Doi Suthep after most people have left in the late afternoon.
• Have a memorable elephant caring experience in our selected sanctuary.
• Take a gentle walk along Ang Ka Nature Trail and visit a hill tribe village in Doi Inthanon National Park.
• Take in the scenery at Wachiratharn Waterfall and appreciate the spectacular King and Queen Pagodas.

Itinerary in Detail

Upon your arrival, your private tour guide and driver will greet you at the airport and then transfer you to your hotel. In the late afternoon, you will head to the iconic mountain, Doi Suthep.

Situated only a few kilometers northwest of Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep is in one of the most famous national parks in Northern Thailand. The main attractions in the park include Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, scenic waterfalls, amazing bird's-eye views, caves, and local wildlife. Despite the stunning natural beauty of Doi Suthep, the main reason many visitors go to the national park is to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Thailand.

Many tourists visit Doi Suthep during the day and the park can get quite crowded. However, our tour takes place in the late afternoon after most people have left so that you can have a meaningful and personal experience . At dusk, you can listen to the evening chanting of the monks as you gaze at the glittering lights of Chiang Mai below you. You can also meditate there if you wish.

Situated in a pristine and picturesque valley in Chiang Mai, about 1? hours outside of the city, Elephant Rescue Park is a paradise for rescued elephants. It provides a safe, loving, and secure environment for all the elephants that live there.

There, you can spend half a day caring for the elephants. At Elephant Rescue Park, you'll interact with the elephants, feed them, walk with them, hug them, and bathe them.

Rising 2,565 meters above sea level, Doi Inthanon National Park is often called "the roof of Thailand". It is one of the most popular national parks in Thailand and is especially famous for its large number of waterfalls, hiking trails, remote villages, and picturesque mountain farms.

This park is also a great place to go bird-watching or to take in the beautiful scenery while watching a sunrise or sunset. Because it is located at a higher elevation, the weather at Doi Inthanon National Park is cool year-round, making it the perfect place to spend some time outdoors.

During this day tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the mountain's summit where you can see green-tailed sunbirds, take a gentle walk along Ang Ka Nature Trail, visit a hill tribe village and a small Hmong market, take in the scenery at Wachiratharn Waterfall, and appreciate the spectacular King and Queen Pagodas.

Your Chiang Mai journey has come to an end. Your private tour guide and driver will transfer you to the airport for your departure.

Hand-picked Hotels

We have selected hotels with different styles and for different budgets. Let us know your preferences and we will help you find the right one.

Our Service Includes:

• Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
• All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
• Hotel accommodation mentioned in the itinerary
• Breakfasts at hotels and lunches for every guided day
• Governmental taxes

Tour code: ah-tl-3

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Jessie was amazing ! Everything from her level of English to her understanding of what we valued .

We had a good time exploring the city with Selinda!

Our guide lele is a wealth of information, Lele is very professional and very attentive to our needs. Lele is amazing. Lele got everything spot on. It probably helps that Guilin is a brilliant place to visit so Lele has great material to work with but that doesn't take anything away from how much Lele helped make it a great trip.

Our guide for Beijing was super knowledgeable and experienced and able to help us to achieve as much as we wanted within the time given. We had a fun time guided by him as he is also super humorous and you can see how he interacts with the vendors and people whom he comes by. Thank you for a very enjoyable time in Beijing and accommodating to all our needs!

Our China Highlight guide. Michael, was attentive, thoughtful and knowledgeable. He narrated many interesting historical events about Chengdu while touring around the city and having afternoon tea with us. He was thoughtful to provide us with snacks during long hikes at Leshan or walks around the city.

She was very flexible and added extra time when we needed it and we felt extremely well taken care of. She also chose the best restaurants for us,

Our tour guide Helen, was excellent, she was very kind, professional and passionate for her work and she also loves Pandas! She will take you to take the best panda photos and to know more about Chengdu city. Our tour was great, she took us to all our destinations always with the best spots: Temples, pagodas, famous streets, theaters, pandas...you name it! Everything was great.

He picked up our pre-booked boat/other excursions tickets so we were able to avoid all the long lines and chaos. He is knowledgeable of the places we visited, courteous, fun to travel with and well-versed in Chinese classics.

Tom is the guide that will take you to where no other guide will. We pushed for the experience and Tom and the team delivered more than what we could have ever asked for. His English speaking ability and his Chinese history knowledge is second to none.

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How to plan a food tour around northern Thailand, from Chiang Mai to Phrae

Whether it's tomato rice or khao soi, Thailand's north is bursting with flavour and ripe for a culinary journey.

Until the end of the 19th century, much of what is today considered northern Thailand was an independent kingdom. Lanna (‘Million Rice Fields’) had its own distinct culture, language and cuisine. And the latter certainly remains true today. Northern Thai food leans towards savoury, tart and bitter flavours. Soups and grilled dishes are common, and influences stem from the various ethnic groups that inhabit the mountains of the region, as well as from neighbouring Myanmar and Chinese Muslims who passed by on trade routes.  

The region remained largely remote and autonomous until 1916, when the first leg of the northern train line from Bangkok was completed. This terminated in the city of Lampang; it would reach Chiang Mai, the north’s largest city, less than a decade later. There are quicker ways of travelling, but the train is a fascinating way to explore, linking big-hitter destinations and smaller provincial capitals, allowing you to slow down and take notice of the region’s unique cuisine.

Days 1-3: Chiang Mai & Lampang

Take the sleeper from Bangkok and wake up in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand’s de facto cultural capital, a walled city home to more than 100 Buddhist temples. On a Friday morning don’t miss Ban Haw Market in the city’s Muslim quarter, which unites the produce and dishes of the area’s minority groups — the so-called ‘hill tribes’, Chinese, Burmese and Shan, as well as Muslims. The Muslim quarter is also home to the city’s most famous dish: khao soi (two types of noodles in curry broth). A mild version is sold by halal vendors at the edge of the market, such as Khao Soi Islam and Khao Soi Fuang Fah. If you’re craving khao soi on any other day of the week, tack on a trip to the riverside Fa Ham area, where Buddhist vendors Khao Soi Samerjai and Khao Soi Lam Duan Fa Ham have been slinging flavoursome bowls for decades.

In the afternoon, hail one of Chiang Mai’s emblematic red taxi trucks — to get to Doi Suthep, the mountain towering over the city. The climb to the top culminates in views from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a gilded, hilltop Buddhist temple complex. Finish back in town with a late dinner at Midnight Fried Chicken, which dishes up poultry with distinctly northern Thai sides: sticky rice and two types of nam phrik (spicy dipping sauces).

Spend your second day in Chiang Mai’s walled city, starting with coffee from Thai-grown beans at chic Akha Ama Phrasingh. Wat Phra Singh, arguably Chiang Mai’s most important Buddhist temple, is only steps away; don’t miss the early 19th-century Buddhist murals in Viharn Lai Kham, a chapel in the same compound. Outside the city walls you’ll find Tong Tem Toh, serving a hip take on local cuisine — order the northern-style spice hors d’oeuvre, small bites of grilled herbal sausage, pork, vegetables and nam phrik.

From here, go just south to Wat Suan Dok, a Buddhist temple where you can take part in ‘monk chat’, an informal language exchange with novice monks, offering a fascinating insight into Thai culture and Buddhism. Then, for a laid-back dinner try Chang Phuak Gate Night Market — Cowboy Hat Lady’s braised pork hock on rice is well worth queueing for.

Spend a final morning wandering Pratu Chiang Mai Market by the old south gate, including the outdoor section, where vendors sell produce in front of crumbling temple ruins. At lunchtime, stop off at Huen Jai Yong, outside the city proper. Located in and around a temple-like teak and stucco structure, ringed by rice fields, it serves northern Thai-style dips, soups and other homely dishes.

Wind down before your evening journey with a massage at the Northern School for the Blind or the Women’s Massage Center, where proceeds go to good causes. After that, hop on a train to Lampang. Relatively few visitors make it here, but this riverside former logging outpost is quite charming — particularly Thanon Talat Gao, a road parallel to the Wang River, lined with a combination of northern Thai, Burmese and Chinese architectural styles. If you’re in town on a Saturday evening, hit the Walking Street Market for a casual dinner. Alternatively, head to Aroy One Baht, a rambling old house serving Chinese-influenced dishes such as aubergine flash-fried with fermented soybeans, or a spicy salad revolving around salted eggs.

Days 4-5: Lampang & Phrae

The next morning, visit century-old Kao Chao Market. Built as a depot for produce transported by rail, it’s a time capsule and an introduction to ingredients such as conical wild bamboo shoots and jackfruits the size of labradors. For breakfast, hit one of the tiny stalls serving rustic coffee and sweets.

Pop into Baan Sao Nak, a restored 19th-century mansion, for an insight into the lives — and furniture — of northern Thai nobility. Within walking distance is Khun Manee, a family-run factory producing khao taen — a Lampang speciality of deep-fried sticky rice cakes drizzled with palm sugar. For lunch, rustic-and-delicious Raan Sai Ua Mae Chan Dee is a grill shack on Suandok Road, in the middle of the city. Look out for sai ua, a herb-packed northern Thai sausage, or aep, banana leaf-wrapped minced meat and herbs.  

Afterwards, take a taxi to Friends of the Asian Elephant Foundation Hospital, where there are no questionable shows or public feedings, but you can see elephants recovering from injuries. Finish up at the buzzy Evening Market, at the northern end of Ratsada Phisek Bridge, where you can find curries and other dishes bagged up and ready to take away.

Kick off your last day in Lampang with a late breakfast/early lunch at Khanom Jeen Pa Bun Sri on Thanon Talat Gao. Khanom jeen is a dish of thin rice noodles in a tomato-based broth that’s a staple in this region, and Pa Bun Sri does a deliciously smoky, savoury version. From here, take a taxi just outside town to the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum. This family-run factory is one of the longest-running producers of the iconic chaam traa kai, small ceramic bowls featuring a hand-painted cockerel; there’s a gift shop, too. Continue to Wat Phra That Lampang Luang — one of the most important and impressive Buddhist temples in the north — before returning to Lampang train station to journey to Phrae.  

This may just be the friendliest city in Thailand, but there’s no train station; the closest is in Den Chai, 15 miles away, where buses and taxis are available. Once in Phrae, head to Kua Jinsod, in a rural-feeling area west of the centre. This semi-open-air restaurant is one of the best places in the region for laab, finely minced meat with herbs and spices.  

Day 6: Phrae

For your final morning, head to Slope Coffee, a cafe in a rambling, charmingly crumbling wooden structure in Phrae’s historic centre. Afterwards, explore the quiet, leafy streets and visit Vongburi House Museum or Wichai Ratcha Residence, both former lumber barons’ mansions. For an early lunch, go to Duang Nate Noodle for khanom jeen noodles in a porky broth, or tomatoey rice garnished with chunks of deep-fried pork rind and drizzled with garlic oil — dishes found only in Phrae. They tend to sell out before midday.

Spend the afternoon three miles north of Phrae in Thung Hong, a village known for indigo dyeing. Countless shops sell suea maw hawm, a local indigo work shirt, and on certain days you can watch the dyeing firsthand at Mohom Ban Pa Luang, a tiny, family-run factory. If it’s Saturday, pick up something to eat at Phrae’s Walking Street Market, along a main road in the historic centre. Otherwise, Kad Phra Non, on the same street, serves northern Thai dishes, from meaty curries to spicy salads. From there, backtrack to Den Chai for the night train to Bangkok.

Related Topics

• FOOD CULTURE
• STREET FOODS
• FOOD HISTORY
• RESTAURANTS

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Passing Thru Travel

Discover Thailand: Your Ultimate Guide to 20 Incredible Destinations in 2024

Posted: March 5, 2024 | Last updated: March 5, 2024

Thailand, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and renowned hospitality, offers a plethora of experiences for every traveler. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of the south and the lush mountains of the north, this guide will take you through the diverse facets of Thailand, ensuring a journey filled with discovery and wonder.

Bangkok, a city where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modernity, offers an experience like no other. As you navigate its bustling streets, you’ll encounter magnificent temples such as Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun, standing as serene sanctuaries amidst the urban chaos. The Grand Palace, a former royal residence, highlights the city’s rich history and architectural grandeur.

For shopping enthusiasts, the sprawling Chatuchak Weekend Market presents a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to local handicrafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in Bangkok’s renowned street food, where dishes like Pad Thai and Som Tam are served with authentic flavors.

The city’s vibrant nightlife, from rooftop bars to lively street markets, pulsates with energy, offering a glimpse into the contemporary lifestyle of Bangkok’s residents. Navigating Bangkok explores contrasts, where each turn presents a new facet of this dynamic city.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the lesser-known but equally impressive Wat Benchamabophit for a more tranquil temple experience.

How To Get There: Bangkok is accessible by its two main airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. The city has an extensive public transport system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season from November to February is ideal, with pleasant weather and numerous festivals.

2. Chiang Mai

In Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of Northern Thailand, you’ll find a more laid-back atmosphere than Bangkok’s frenetic energy. The city is replete with historic temples, the most famous being Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, each offering a peaceful retreat and a look into the spiritual practices of the locals. The Night Bazaar and Sunday Walking Street Market are hubs for artisanal crafts and street food, reflecting the city’s artistic flair and culinary richness.

Just outside the city, the lush landscapes of Doi Inthanon National Park await, with trekking trails leading to waterfalls and hill tribe villages. Chiang Mai’s charm lies in its blend of history, culture, and nature, providing a holistic experience of Thailand’s northern region.

Whether you’re exploring its ancient temples, engaging in a traditional Thai cooking class, or wandering through its vibrant markets, Chiang Mai captivates with its serene beauty and rich cultural tapestry.

Insider’s Tip: Take a Thai cooking class to delve deeper into the region’s unique flavors.

How To Get There: Chiang Mai has an international airport and is also accessible by train or bus from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: Visit during the cool season, particularly in November, for the Yi Peng Lantern Festival.

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a blend of experiences catering to those seeking relaxation and adventure. The island’s beaches, like Patong, Kata, and Karon, offer a range of atmospheres, from bustling shores with water sports activities to more tranquil retreats. Beyond its stunning beaches, Phuket’s Old Town reveals a different side of the island, with Sino-Portuguese architecture and a burgeoning arts scene.

A visit to the Big Buddha is a must for a panoramic view of the island. The surrounding waters of Phuket, particularly the Phi Phi Islands and Similan Islands, are a paradise for divers and snorkelers, boasting vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters.

Phuket’s nightlife, especially in Patong, pulsates with energy, offering many entertainment options. The island’s diversity, from its natural beauty to cultural richness, makes Phuket a microcosm of Thailand’s allure.

Insider’s Tip: Take a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands for some of the best snorkeling and diving.

How To Get There: Phuket is accessible by its international airport or by bus and ferry from the mainland.

Best Time To Travel: The best weather is from November to February, with calm seas and sunny skies.

4. Ayutthaya

The ancient city of Ayutthaya, once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, stands today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a journey through Thailand’s storied past. As you wander through the historical park, you’ll encounter the ruins of temples and palaces, each telling a tale of the city’s former glory and subsequent destruction.

The site’s most iconic structures, such as Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, showcase the sophisticated art and architecture of the Ayutthaya period. Exploring Ayutthaya is not just a historical excursion; it’s an immersive experience that transports you back to when the city was a major trading hub of Asia.

The juxtaposition of ancient ruins against a backdrop of modern life underscores the enduring legacy of Ayutthaya’s historical and cultural significance in Thailand.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.

How To Get There: Ayutthaya is a short train or bus ride from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, from November to February, offers comfortable exploring conditions.

In Krabi Province, you’ll find yourself amidst some of Thailand’s most picturesque landscapes, marked by dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and clear blue waters. The province is renowned for destinations like Railay Beach, which is accessible only by boat. It offers world-class rock climbing and stunning beachscapes.

The Phi Phi Islands, with their iconic beaches and vibrant marine life, are perfect for day trips, offering opportunities for snorkeling and diving. For a more tranquil experience, the lesser-known Koh Lanta provides a laid-back atmosphere with its long, sandy beaches. Krabi’s natural beauty extends beyond its coastline, with inland attractions like the Emerald Pool and the Tiger Cave Temple, each offering unique experiences.

Whether you’re seeking adventure on the cliffs of Railay or tranquility on the beaches of Koh Lanta, Krabi presents a diverse array of natural wonders waiting to be explored.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the mangroves and limestone caves by kayak for a unique perspective.

How To Get There: Krabi has an airport, and it’s also accessible by bus and boat from other parts of Thailand.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to March for the best beach weather.

Pai, nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, is a haven for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. With its relaxed atmosphere, this small town attracts travelers looking to escape the hustle of city life. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, Pai is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, visiting waterfalls, and exploring hot springs.

The Pai Canyon offers stunning views, especially at sunset, and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The town’s charming cafes, night markets, and art galleries reflect a unique blend of local Thai culture and bohemian influences.

Renting a scooter to explore the surrounding countryside is a popular way to discover the area’s hidden gems, but be cautious on the winding roads. Pai’s natural beauty, laid-back vibe, and cultural richness make it a refreshing stop in your Thailand journey.

Insider’s Tip: Rent a scooter to explore the surrounding countryside, but be cautious on the winding roads.

How To Get There: Pai is accessible by bus from Chiang Mai.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, particularly from October to February, is ideal for comfortable temperatures.

7. Sukhothai

Sukhothai, the first capital of Thailand, is where Thai art, architecture, and language began to develop and flourish. The Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an archaeological delight with well-preserved ruins and majestic Buddha statues set amidst scenic lakes and gardens.

Exploring this ancient city on a bicycle offers a leisurely and intimate experience of the park’s vast grounds. Highlights include Wat Mahathat, with its impressive central stupa, and Wat Si Chum, known for its gigantic seated Buddha.

The historical significance of Sukhothai, coupled with its serene and picturesque setting, provides a profound insight into the origins of Thai culture and the nation’s early history.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the Loy Krathong festival in November, when the park is beautifully lit with lanterns.

How To Get There: Sukhothai is accessible by bus or plane from Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season is the best time to visit, especially around the Loy Krathong festival.

Hua Hin, once a quiet fishing village and now a popular beach resort town, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural experiences. Known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and the summer palace of the Thai royal family, Hua Hin exudes an air of sophistication and tranquility.

The night markets in Hua Hin, particularly the Cicada Market, are great for experiencing local crafts and cuisine. Nearby natural attractions like Sam Roi Yot National Park, with its limestone mountains and mangrove forests, provide opportunities for nature exploration.

Hua Hin’s combination of beachside leisure, royal heritage, and natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a more laid-back experience in Thailand.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local seafood at the night market, known for its freshness and variety.

How To Get There: Hua Hin is about a three-hour drive from Bangkok and is also accessible by train.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to February for the best beach weather and fewer rain showers.

9. Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi, known for the Bridge over the River Kwai and its World War II history, offers a poignant reminder of the past, set against a backdrop of stunning natural scenery. The Death Railway, war cemeteries, and museums provide a deep understanding of the region’s wartime history.

Beyond its historical significance, Kanchanaburi is also home to beautiful national parks like Erawan and Sai Yok, offering trekking, waterfalls, and river rafting. The province’s blend of history and natural beauty provides a multifaceted experience, making it a destination that appeals to history buffs and nature lovers.

Insider’s Tip: Take a train ride on the Death Railway for a scenic and historical journey.

How To Get There: Kanchanaburi is accessible by bus or train from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: The cool and dry season from November to February is ideal for exploring and outdoor activities.

10. The Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge, offers a unique cultural and geographical experience. This area, once notorious for its opium production, now provides insights into the region’s history with attractions like the Hall of Opium Museum.

A boat ride on the Mekong River is a serene way to experience the beauty of this area and the confluence of the three countries. The ancient city of Chiang Saen nearby, with its ruins and temples, adds a historical dimension to your visit. The Golden Triangle’s cultural influences and stunning landscapes make it a fascinating destination in Northern Thailand.

Insider’s Tip: For a panoramic view of the three countries, visit the viewpoint at Wat Phra That Pu Khao.

How To Get There: The Golden Triangle is accessible by bus or car from Chiang Rai.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, from November to February, offers comfortable weather for exploring.

11. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands in the Andaman Sea are a pristine archipelago renowned for their exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities. These islands, part of a protected national park, boast some of the clearest waters in Thailand, with visibility often extending up to 30 meters.

The underwater landscape of coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, and a myriad of colorful fish species. Above water, the islands are equally stunning, with powdery white sand beaches and lush tropical forests. The Similan Islands are perfect for a retreat for anyone seeking unspoiled natural beauty.

Whether you’re exploring the depths of the ocean or simply relaxing on a secluded beach, the Similans offer a tranquil escape from the world, where nature’s wonders are on full display.

Insider’s Tip: Book a liveaboard diving trip for an immersive experience in the islands’ underwater world.

How To Get There: The Similan Islands are accessible by boat from Khao Lak or Phuket.

Best Time To Travel: The diving season runs from November to April, with the best conditions from February to April.

12. The Isaan Region

The Isaan region, located in northeastern Thailand, is a land steeped in tradition and history, offering a stark contrast to the country’s more tourist-centric areas. This region is the heartland of Thai culture, where ancient customs and lifestyles are preserved. Isaan’s rural landscapes, dotted with rice paddies and traditional villages, provide a glimpse into a simpler way of life.

The region is also home to some of Thailand’s most significant archaeological sites, including the prehistoric Ban Chiang and the Khmer ruins of Phanom Rung. Isaan’s cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spiciness, is a highlight, with dishes like som tam (spicy papaya salad) and larb (minced meat salad) being local staples

A journey through Isaan is a journey through the soul of Thailand, where the richness of the country’s heritage and the warmth of its people are palpable in every experience.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local dishes like som tam (spicy papaya salad) and larb (minced meat salad) for an authentic taste of Isaan.

How To Get There: Isaan is accessible by bus or train from Bangkok, or by plane to regional airports like Udon Thani.

Best Time To Travel: Visit during the cool season, from November to February, for comfortable travel conditions.

13. Koh Samui

Koh Samui, nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, is a tropical paradise combining natural beauty, luxury, and relaxation. The island is renowned for its idyllic beaches, such as Chaweng and Lamai, which offer crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands. Beyond its stunning coastline, Koh Samui has various attractions, from the majestic Big Buddha statue to the enchanting Na Muang Waterfalls.

The island’s interior is a lush landscape of coconut groves and rainforests, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring. Koh Samui’s culinary scene is a blend of traditional Thai flavors and international cuisine, with a plethora of dining options ranging from beachside shacks to upscale restaurants.

The island’s vibrant nightlife, centered around Chaweng Beach, provides entertainment well into the early hours. Koh Samui caters to all types of travelers seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a luxurious retreat.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Ang Thong National Marine Park for stunning landscapes and snorkeling opportunities.

How To Get There: Koh Samui has an airport with flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and international destinations.

Best Time To Travel: The best time to visit is from December to February, with dry weather and calm seas.

14. Railay Beach

Railay Beach, accessible only by boat, is a hidden gem offering a serene escape from the more crowded tourist spots. This peninsula, known for its stunning limestone cliffs and pristine beaches, is a haven for rock climbers and beachgoers.

The turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and kayaking, while the viewpoints and caves provide opportunities for exploration. Railay maintains a laid-back atmosphere, with a small selection of bars and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for adventure and relaxation in a tranquil setting.

Insider’s Tip: Take a rock climbing course if you’re a beginner to safely enjoy the sport under expert guidance.

How To Get There: Railay Beach is accessible by boat from Ao Nang or Krabi Town.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to April when the weather is dry, and the seas are calm.

15. Udon Thani and the Red Lotus Sea

Udon Thani, a vibrant city in Thailand’s northeastern region, is the gateway to the mesmerizing Red Lotus Sea (Lake Nong Han). It’s best visited in the cool season, as it transforms into a breathtaking expanse of pink and red lotuses stretching as far as the eye can see. A boat ride through the serene waters, dotted with these vibrant blooms, offers a truly unique and tranquil experience.

Beyond the lake, Udon Thani boasts a rich cultural heritage, with various temples, museums, and markets reflecting the local Isan culture. The Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Udon Thani, provides fascinating insights into the region’s ancient history.

This area’s blend of natural beauty and cultural depth makes it a compelling destination for those exploring beyond Thailand’s typical tourist paths.

Insider’s Tip: Visit early in the morning when the lotuses are fully bloomed and the lake is less crowded.

How To Get There: Udon Thani is accessible by plane from Bangkok, and the Red Lotus Sea is a short drive from the city.

Best Time To Travel: The lotuses bloom from December to February, making it the ideal time to visit.

16. The Ancient City of Sukhothai

The ancient city of Sukhothai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a journey back in time to the roots of Thai civilization. As the first capital of Thailand, it holds a special place in the nation’s history. The Sukhothai Historical Park, with its well-preserved ruins set amidst lush greenery and tranquil ponds, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the 13th-century Sukhothai Kingdom.

Exploring the park, you’ll encounter majestic Buddha figures, towering stupas, and intricate carvings, all evocative of the city’s past splendor. Cycling through the park’s vast grounds allows for an intimate exploration of its numerous sites, including Wat Mahathat, the park’s largest temple, and Wat Si Chum, famous for its gigantic seated Buddha. A visit to Sukhothai immerses ancient Thailand’s artistic and spiritual legacy.

Insider’s Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the extensive grounds of the historical park at your own pace.

How To Get There: Sukhothai is accessible by bus or plane from Bangkok, and the historical park is a short ride from the city center.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season from November to February offers pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor ruins.

17. The Floating Markets Near Bangkok

The floating markets near Bangkok, such as Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa, offer a vibrant and colorful glimpse into traditional Thai life. These bustling waterways, lined with boats laden with fresh produce, local delicacies, and handicrafts, present a lively and picturesque scene.

A visit to these markets is a sensory experience, with the sights, sounds, and smells of authentic Thai commerce and cuisine. Damnoen Saduak, the most famous of these markets, provides a more tourist-focused experience, while Amphawa offers a more local atmosphere and is primarily known for its evening seafood vendors.

Exploring these floating markets by boat or along the canalside walkways is a unique way to experience the local culture and indulge in some of Thailand’s most delicious foods and charming souvenirs.

Insider’s Tip: Take a boat tour to fully experience the market and try local snacks from the floating vendors.

How To Get There: The floating markets are accessible by bus or organized tours from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.

18. Erawan National Park and Waterfalls

Erawan National Park, located in the Kanchanaburi Province, is a natural oasis known for its stunning seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, named after the three-headed elephant of Hindu mythology. Each tier of the waterfall offers a different shape and character, with natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxation.

The park’s lush forests are home to plentiful wildlife and provide numerous hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. Beyond the waterfalls, the park’s caves, such as Tham Phra That and Tham Ta Duang, offer further exploration opportunities.

Visiting Erawan National Park is a chance to witness one of Thailand’s most beautiful waterfalls and connect with the country’s rich natural landscapes.

Insider’s Tip: Bring swimwear and trek to the upper tiers of the waterfall for a more secluded and serene experience.

How To Get There: The park is located in Kanchanaburi Province and is accessible by bus or car from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to April when the water levels are ideal for swimming and the trails are dry.

19. Pattaya

Pattaya, once a quiet fishing village and now a bustling coastal city, is known for its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and many tourist attractions. While Pattaya’s reputation is often tied to its entertainment and nightlife, the city offers much more. The Sanctuary of Truth, a stunning all-wood structure filled with intricate carvings, highlights traditional Thai craftsmanship.

For nature lovers, Pattaya offers the Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, a beautifully landscaped park with themed gardens and cultural shows. The nearby Coral Island (Koh Larn) provides a quick escape to quieter beaches and clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and water sports. Pattaya’s diverse offerings make it a destination that caters to various interests, from cultural exploration to beachside relaxation.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Pattaya Floating Market for a cultural experience and to sample local Thai dishes.

How To Get There: Pattaya is a two-hour drive from Bangkok and is also accessible by bus or taxi.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to February for pleasant weather and to avoid the rainy season.

20. The Hill Tribes of Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand’s hill tribes offer a unique cultural experience, distinct from the rest of the country. These ethnic groups, including the Karen, Hmong, Akha, and Lisu, each have their own customs, languages, and traditional dress. Visiting these hill tribe villages, often nestled in the picturesque mountains and valleys of the region, provides insight into their traditional ways of life, which remain largely untouched by modernization.

Responsible and respectful tourism is key when visiting these communities. Many villages welcome visitors to learn about their culture, participate in traditional crafts, and even stay overnight for a more immersive experience. Engaging with the hill tribes of Northern Thailand offers a deeper understanding of the country’s ethnic diversity and rich cultural tapestry.

Insider’s Tip: Choose a community-based tourism program that benefits the tribes directly and respects their culture.

How To Get There: Hill tribe villages are accessible from Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, often as part of guided tours.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, from November to February, is comfortable for visiting the highland areas.

The Bottom Line

Thailand’s magic lies in its diversity – from bustling cities and ancient ruins to serene beaches and lush jungles. As you explore this enchanting country, embrace its history, indulge in its culinary delights, and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Remember, Thailand offers an experience beyond the ordinary, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

While exploring Thailand, take the time to learn a few phrases in Thai. A simple “hello” (sawasdee) or “thank you” (khob khun) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture and enhancing your travel experience.

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The post Discover Thailand: Your Ultimate Guide to 20 Incredible Destinations in 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pikoso.kz.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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