53 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

A white water rafting experience like no other, Mae Taeng River's long 10 km route offers some of the wildest rapids and turns to conquer. Chiang Mai's jungles come alive as you go through the rapid river trail. Most tour operators offer excellent guides, safety equipment, and pick-ups and drop from the hotel.

3 km
from city center 54 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located in Northern Thailand, the Chiang Mai National Museum is a museum of national importance depicting the history of Chiang Mai as well as the Lanna Kingdom. It is also an educational centre aiming to preserve the art and culture of this part of Thailand. Located close to Wat Chet Yot, the Chiang Mai National Museum should be visited by history lovers and people interested in learning about the varied culture of Thailand.

8 km
from city center 55 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Originally built to commemorate the anniversaries of the Royal King's birth and his accession to the throne, Royal Park Rajapruek is now a public park popular among locals and tourists alike. Due to the many varieties of plant species growing here, it is the hub of agricultural research today. Its several exhibits showcase everything from international flora to Thai historical culture.

4 km
from city center 56 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Loi Krathong is a festival of lights celebrated in Thailand to worship the water goddess. People gather around lakes and rivers to set afloat candles, tealights, flowers, and incense atop special holders called krathongs. In Chiang Mai, this event coincides with the Yi Peng festival, where thousands of lanterns are released into the sky, turning the night magical.

10 km
from city center 57 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Huay Tung Tao Lake, a man-made reservoir, is a stunning waterside location outside Chiang Mai to spend the day. It features a gorgeous view of the Doi Suthep mountains, calming waters, and grass huts peppered along the landscape. It has dozens of restaurants with seating floating atop the lake where you can grab a bite, order a drink, lay back, and relax.

18 km
from city center 58 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

The Canopy Walkway is one of the prime attractions newly inaugurated in 2015 within the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden. It is a walking trail made of a glass floor and suspended in the air and is the longest suspended walkway in Thailand. It offers a stunning view over the mountains.

68 km
from city center 59 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

At the foothills of the Chiang Dao mountain lies the Chiang Dao Cave, full of natural wonders and mysteries. The interiors of the cave are patterned with the naturally occurring stalagmites and stalactites. The cave running for more than 12 kilometres also contains several Buddhist relics, ancient statues, a lovely fish pond, and exciting dark passageways.

60 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Bo Sang Umbrella Village is a handicrafts village on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Beautiful little paper umbrellas of different vibrant colors are made and sold here. These pretty canopies are a part of their heritage handicraft and are known for their quality locally and internationally. The uniquely interesting village is picturesque, unlike any traditional market.

1 km
from city center 61 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located in the background of the Three Kings Monument, Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre is the one-stop destination for those looking to learn Chiang Mai's comprehensive history. Through masterful mosaics, paintings, maps, relics and life-sized sculptures, this place takes one on a captivating tour of Chiang Mai, right from its early settlements to its modern culture.

5 km
from city center 62 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Lying on the outskirts of Chiang Mai is the lost city of Wiang Kum Kam. An archaeological site, the city of Wiang Kum Kam, was located on the banks of the Ping River and was once the capital city of the Lanna kingdom. Abandoned in the 16th century due to the flooding of the river, the remains of the city were only discovered in the 1980s.

3 km
from city center 63 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Wat Chet Yot is a temple in Chiang Mai where many cultures collide. The architecture of the temple and the spires have clear Indian, Thai and Lanna influences, with symbolic depictions of Buddha's life. The stuccoed temple is especially venerated as a place of worship for those born in the Year of the Snake, according to the Chinese calendar.

0 km
from city center 64 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located in : Old City

Wat Phakhao is a small, quiet Buddhist temple located along Ratchapakhinai Road. Since it isn't very popular, it offers a respite from noise and crowds. The temple structures are simply built, with interiors decorated with red and gold designs, and the exteriors flanked by lovely gardens. The place holds also holds monk chats, where visitors can converse with learned monks about Buddhism.

120 km
from city center 65 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Doi Ang Khang is the perfect mountain getaway for those looking for adventure and relaxation rolled into one. Since it is known for its natural beauty, there are opportunities for hiking, nature trails, birdwatching and mountain biking. Many tourist attractions such as the Bonsai Garden, Kiu Lom Viewpoint, and the Royal Agricultural Station are situated here, for visitors to enjoy a tryst with nature.

35 km
from city center 66 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located in Mae Rim in the Chiang Mai Province in Thailand, the Maetaman Elephant Camp is a unique concept that allows its guests to interact with the elephants, and also to enjoy various activities with them. The camp features an elephant show, along with the elephant and ox-cart riding, bamboo rafting and many other such fun-filled activities.

1 km
from city center 67 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located in : Old City

Rich with history of its origin, Wat Lokmoli is a temple that dates back to the era of the Mengrai Dynasty during the 14th century. It is known most significantly for its chedi, which is among the largest of all the temples in Chiang Mai. The alluring temple is decorated with structures of traditional serpents, wooden carvings, ornamental gateways and even a statue of a Lanna queen.

1 km
from city center 68 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Also known as the North Gate Market, Talat Phlu Chang Phueak, translating to the Chang Puak Gate Night Market, is a food market located in northern Chiang Mai. Shops lining the street sizzle the air with sounds and smells of flaming woks cooking traditional Thai delicacies, especially seafood. The market is visited by a lot of tourists who seek to experience authentic Thai cuisine at cheap prices.

18 km
from city center 69 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located in : Mae Rim

Patara Elephant Farm is a interactive park aimed at the care and conservation of elephants. Visitors can feed them, ride on their backs, play with them in their natural habitat and even assist in their healthcare activities. The farm also allows people to become elephant owners for a day, which is a great opportunity to establish a loving bond with the species.

1 km
from city center 70 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Ploen Ruedee Night Market is the ultimate destination to get a taste of national and international cuisines. This marketplace is a gastronomic festival, lined with shops preparing everything from Thai street foods to Italian pizza. The live music, bright lights, pubs, crowds and shopping stalls only heighten the carnivalesque atmosphere this place offers.

10 km
from city center 71 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

San Kamphaeng & Bo Sang are two villages near Chiang Mai, that thrive on authentic handicraft and textile production. San Kamphaeng is famous for its various beautiful silk and cotton products, while Bo Sang, also known as the Umbrella Village, is invested in creating bright floral umbrellas symbolic of Chiang Mai. In both these places, visitors can observe the skill with which the manufacturers practice their craft.

18 km
from city center 72 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located in : Mae Rim

One of the largest elephant relief camps in the city, Maesa Elephant Camp is a conservative which houses elderly, baby and rescued elephants. They strive towards providing full comfort to them, tending to their dietary and healthcare needs. Visitors can enjoy several talent shows and skills performed by the elephants, among which painting and football are the most popular.

9 km
from city center 73 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

The Chiang Mai countryside sprawled across scenic mountains and lush greenery, is inhabited by a number of traditional hill tribes. Tribes like the Akha, Palong, Karen and the famous Padaungs have settled in villages which are funded and developed by royal charities and relief organisations. They can be found in and around the Doi Suthep mountains, Huey Naam Rin, Nor Lae, and Nong Tong Villages where they often engage in producing handcrafted tribal arts for livelihood.

17 km
from city center 74 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Founded in 1976, the Thai Elephant Care Centre serves as the last home for elderly elephants before they pass away. Staff and visitors devote their time to caring and bonding with old elephants, helping them in their daily routines of bathing, feeding and healthcare. Spending a day at this facility can be a deeply emotional and life-changing experience.

1 km
from city center 75 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located in : Old City

Since it is constructed completely out of silver, Wat Srisuphan makes for one of the most breathtaking temples in Chiang Mai. The glistening interiors of the temple are also decorated from wall to wall with mirror work, silver and bright colours, along with a silver Buddha. The temple conducts monk chats, wherein visitors can converse with monks about Buddhism.

1 km
from city center 76 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Baan Chang Elephant Park is a conservative sanctuary dedicated to the care and well-being of Asian elephants. They offer programs which offer guidance for proper communication, feeding, bathing and riding of elephants. Their mahout training sessions are useful in understanding the needs of young and old elephants, aiming at bringing man and nature closer.

2 km
from city center 77 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

The Suan Dok Gate is a prime historical landmark situated in the Si Phum District of Chiang Mai. It once formed a part of the walled settlement of Wiang Suan Dok during the period of the Lanna Kingdom around the 14th century. Today, it stands as a reminder of the grand architectural feat of the city's traditions, while also serving as a centre point for hotels and restaurants to flourish.

16 km
from city center 78 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located in : Mae Rim

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

24 km
from city center 79 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Also known as ‘Doi Mon Jam’ and 'Mon Chaem', located just about 45 minutes from the Province of Chiang Mai, Mon Jam is a mountaintop community and national park in the Mae Rim County. This is also a part of the Royal Project, which empowers the residents to use sustainable farming methods to cultivate a variety of crops around the year.

130 km
from city center 80 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Fang is a quiet town located in northern Chiang Mai, which boasts of scenic beauty and natural sights. Doi Ang Khang, Fang Lake, Wat Tha Ton, Fang Hot Springs, Sky Walk, and Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park are among the most popular ones. Since the place doesn't see much tourist footfall, it makes for a great place to relax and unwind.

20 km
from city center 81 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

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

1 km
from city center 82 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Situated near the end of the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, the Anusarn Night Bazaar is known for being the largest and most exciting night market in Chiang Mai. Shops lined along the street sell everything from jewellery, clothes, bags, local Thai food, and souvenirs at reasonable prices. Busy restaurants, pubs and massage parlours in the area serve to satiate the weary shopper.

12 km
from city center 83 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Baan Tawai is a local handicrafts village in Chiang Mai, aimed at the encouragement and inclusivity of tribal culture from the surrounding villages and hills. It is most famous for its handcrafted woodwork carvings, which is an ancient folk art passed down through generations. Artful samples of wooden furniture, kitchenware, decorations, sculptures, etc. are all available on sale for visitors.

1 km
from city center 84 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Started in 2014, Elephant Retirement Park is a home to elephants, especially ones which are old and retired. It offers a safe haven for elephants who have been rescued from captivity in labour or entertainment. There are opportunities for visitors to bathe, feed, give herbal treatments to, and gain deep knowledge about these loving animals, making it an extremely fulfilling experience.

39 km
from city center 85 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Baan Mae Kampong is a quaint mountain village, blessed with picturesque waterfalls, streams, mountains and forests that make up its neighbourhood. It heavily promotes eco-tourism and homestays, so that visitors can familiarise themselves with the traditions of the local folk, and live like them.

1 km
from city center 86 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

The Chinatown in Chiang Mai is a culturally rich, albeit small area. Its close location to the busy Warorot Market sometimes makes it indistinguishable from the local Thai market area. There are several shops selling gold, cheap fabric and domestic appliances here. The market is more alive at night with stalls preparing authentic Chinese street food delicacies.

1 km
from city center 87 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located right in the centre of Chiang Mai Old City, Chiang Mai Historical Centre is a store of Thailand's interesting history tracing the beginnings of Chiang Mai. Made in traditional Lanna style, the centre uses interactive methods of information such as waxworks, models, dioramas, description boards and real life ruins from an ancient temple.

68 km
from city center 88 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Spread across the countryside with the majestic Doi Chiang Dao forming the backdrop, the Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected hotspot of various flora and fauna. It covers different types of forests and is home to several endangered animals. Trekking and camping opportunities are also available, which are perfect for an exciting getaway in the lap of nature. Guides charge between 1000 THB and 2000 THB per person and an overnight stay at the sanctuary costs 500 THB.

68 km
from city center 89 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Also known locally as Chiang Dao National Park, Pha Daeng National Park is sprawled over 1225 sq. kms., encompassing within it several attractions such as Pong Ang Hot Springs, Sri Sangwan Waterfalls, and Doi Chiang Dao. A hike up the limestone hills, through forests and thickets, promises a thrilling ascend with a panoramic view of nature in full bloom.

135 km
from city center 90 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park is a conservative site in the Fang district of Chiang Mai. It covers a scenic mountainous terrain, including the Pha Hom Pok Mountain itself. The park is replete with distinct attractions like geysers, geothermal pools, mineral baths, botanical gardens and natural beauty, all extremely well-maintained. Opportunities to hike and camp overnight are also available.

91 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Tha Ton is a village in northern Chiang Mai, whose location in the countryside has granted it with verdant views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The place is home to hill tribes, and is actively invested in their relief by setting up handicraft markets. Tourists can also visit the famous Wat Tha Ton temple or take a boat trip down the river to Chiang Rai nearby.

35 km
from city center 92 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Situated in Mae Rim, Wat Phraphutthabat Si Roi is an important Buddhist temple, since the temple grounds are said to contain footprints of the Buddha. The temple structure itself is magnificently carved with bright colours and golden panels, along with a refreshing dose of greenery beautifying the compound, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the soul.

3 km
from city center 93 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Located near the National Museum, the Chinese Cemetery is a quiet area lined with beautiful graves commemorating those who have passed. The neat white structures are majestic, yet elegant, ensuring a comfortable resting place. One can also find installations of mythical creatures guarding the cemetery. This is a good place for those looking for some peace for silent introspection.

9 km
from city center 94 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Keeping true to its title of 'rose of the northäó, Chiang Mai hosts the Flower Festival every year, a three-day festival in February. This event turns the Suan Buak Hat park colourful with its wonderful display of flowers, some local, some exotic. The major highlights of the festival are the decorated floats that parade the streets and the Miss Chiang Mai Flower Festival competition.

69 km
from city center 95 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Surrounded by thick jungles and lush vegetation, Wat Tham Pha Plong is a forest temple not far from the Chiang Dao mountains. The striking golden pagoda of the temple standing tall is visible even from a distance. The ascent to the temple is not easy, since it is reached after a hike up some 500 steps. The temple is known for the peaceful vibe and magnificent view it offers.

147 km
from city center 96 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Wat Tha Ton is an important Buddhist temple in the village of Tha Ton. It is well-known for its stunning crystal pagoda, or Chedi Kaew, which is strikingly visible from afar. Adorned with inscriptions and sculptures of mythical stories, the compound houses a school, meditation centre and community outreach programs for the hill tribes, while also offering a scenic view of the country below.

1 km
from city center 97 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Talat Ton Lam Yai is a riverside flower market, spread adjacent to Warorot Market on the busy Praisanai Road. Bunches of roses, jasmines, orchids, chrysanthemums and lotuses scent the air and put up a colourful show in full bloom. Though the market is open all night long, locals like visiting early morning to choose from the brightest and freshest flowers.

0 km
from city center 98 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

With a Burmese style chedi, viharn with Lanna architecture, and motifs of Hindu mythological creatures, Wat Mahawan is a temple rich in the cultural heritage of Thailand. The complex also has an ubosot, the prayer hall where monks are ordained. The Ho Trai, which once contained scriptures with teachings of the Buddha, now serves as the residence of the temple's abbot.

2 km
from city center 99 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Wat Ku Tao is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai with traditional Burmese, Chinese and Confucian influences. Also known as Temple of the Gourd Pagoda, it borrows its name from its chedi that resembles a gourd or a stack of watermelons, which actually represents the lives of Buddha. It is a quiet temple with few visitors, making it perfect for some peaceful meditation and prayer.

19 km
from city center 100 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

The Samoeng Loop, beginning at the 1096 highway in Mae Rim, is a popular point for bikers, motorcyclists and adventure-enthusiasts. The loop winds through panoramic mountains and challenging terrains, covering most of the sightseeing spots situated in the town of Mae Rim along the way.

11 km
from city center 101 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Khun Chang Khian is a quaint little village managed by Chiang Mai University's Faculty of Agriculture. It is a major bio-hotspot where several exotic species are found, making it a centre for agro-research. It is best known for the magnificent pink cherry blossoms, known locally as the Tiger Queen, which give a feel of Japan in Thailand.

3 km
from city center 102 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Natural Science Museum is a store of exhibits and museums pertaining to science, technology and sustainable development. The exhibition offers an interesting tour through several fields such as archaeology, biology, geography and astronomy, which make for a fun-filled educational experience, for both children and adults.

0 km
from city center 103 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Though Wat Phan On is a small temple complex, it houses the most stunning golden chedi/stupa, made in 2007 by the King of Thailand, Rama IX. The architecture of the temple is a beautiful mix of rich gold detailing and wooden carvings depicting traditional myths and motifs. Complete with a large viharn and a kuti where monks reside, this temple represents authentic Thai culture.

1 km
from city center 104 out of 138
Things To Do in Chiang Mai

Talat Muang Mai is a wholesale fruit market in Chiang Mai. With its display of juicy fruits and flavourful vegetables, it is the one-stop destination to grab unprocessed, fresh farm produce at cheap rates. It sells several local varieties of watermelons, mangoes, passionfruit, rambutans and apples. Bustling with locals round the clock, it makes for a good exposure to Thai lifestyles.