Are you in Chiang Mai or planning a trip and not sure which places to visit? With so many beaches, markets, viewpoints, and attractions, it can be hard to decide where to go.
At TripFactory, this is one of the most common questions travelers ask before booking their Chiang Mai Tour Package. So our experts share the best places to visit there, making it easier for you to plan your itinerary.
1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Situated in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, it is a famous Buddhist temple. Additionally, the temple is considered to be pious and holy by most of the Thai people. Built in the year 1383, it is placed on the mountain called Doi Suthep. Legend has it that King Kue Na of the Lanna Kingdom was pleased with a monk named Sumana from Sukhothai, who acquired a piece of bone. This piece of bone was believed to be a relic of Buddha. Interestingly, the bone broke into two pieces.
One was enshrined in Wat Suan Dok while the other piece was attached to the back of a sacred elephant who was found dead in the forest. The king then decided to build a temple on the same spot where they found the elephant dead which came to be known as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the Chiang Mai temples and historic sites. It is also one of the best temples to visit in Chiang Mai.
Activities to do in the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Explore the temple and admire the architecture.
- Additionally, delve into the temple’s rich history and culture.
- Take a lot of pictures during your climb to the three headed serpent staircase
- Next, marvel at the breathtaking view of Chiang Mai city from the temple grounds.
- Finally, you can explore Wat Pha Lat, a smaller temple located on the mountain, or visit the Bhubing Palace, the royal winter residence.
More Information
- Opening Hour: It is usually open from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm. The best time to visit this place would be in the morning hour when there will be less crowd and it will be less sunny
- Entry fee: Yes, there is an entrance fee. For the foreigners it is 30 Baht while for the locals the cost is 20 Baht.
- Direction: There are two ways to get to Phra That Doi Suthep Temple. First you can travel by car, take the Huai Kaew-Chiang Mai University-Chiang Mai Zoo road and you will see the way to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep . Another way to reach is via bus which are available from 5.00 am-5.00 pm.
2. Chiang Mai Old City
Chiang Mai old city is the second largest city after Bangkok. A canal surrounds it, and you’ll find many small coffee shops, hotels, temples, and massage spots nearby. There are around 117 temples in the old city. If you ever get bored in the old city of Chiang Mai, then step in one of the small coffee shops to try the local Chiang Mai coffee. There are a lot of things that you can do in the city, making it one of the best tourist attractions in Chiang Mai for first-time visitors. For instance, you can explore the Chiang Mai National Museum, pray at Wat Chedi Luang, take blessings at Wat Buppharam, visit Wat Phan Tao, and visit the Chiang Mai Art and Cultural Centre. Additionally, you can gift yourself with a Thai massage and enjoy many more activities in the city.
Activities to do in the Chiang Mai Old City
- Explore iconic temples like Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Chiang Man, each with unique architecture and historical significance.
- Additionally, visit the famous night bazaar where you can buy souvenirs and indulge in some mouth-watering food.
- Moreover, shop at the Sunday walking street where you can find handcrafted and handmade goods for gifting.
- Finally, learn how to prepare local traditional Thai dishes in a cooking class.
More Information
- Opening Hour: It is usually open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The best time to visit this place would be in the morning hour when there will be less crowd and it will be less sunny
- Direction: To reach Chiang Mai Old City you can hire a taxi or take a grb ride which will take 15 minutes. Alternatively you can also take the bus route.
3. Doi Inthanon National Park
It spans an area of about 482 km². King Inthawichayanon was the last ruler who was deeply committed to preserve the forest and save its rich wildlife. He wanted his remains to be placed in the park after his death. The park was placed in his honour. It is best to visit the park from November to April when it does not rain a lot and remains cold most of the time of the year. It is one of the hidden gems in Chiang Mai to explore, especially for those who enjoy nature.
Activities to do in the Doi Inthanon National Park
- Go through the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail. This trail will give you the chance to witness the diverse flora and fauna.
- Moreover, there are many waterfalls such as Wachirathan, Mae Ya, and Siriphum, which you can explore.
- Additionally, Doi Inthanon is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a variety of species to spot.
- Furthermore, you can explore nearby attractions like the Kew Mae Pan, Baan Mae Klang Luang Village, Mae Ya Waterfall, and the Two Chedis.
More Information
- Opening Hour: It is usually open from 5:30 am – 6:00 pm. The best time to visit this place would be from November to February when the weather is cool and dry and perfect for hiking and trekking.
- Entry Fee: Yes, there is an entry fee. For the adults the fee is 300 Baht while for the children the fee is 150 baht.
- Direction: Take a minivan or hire your own taxi which will be much more comfortable.It will take approximately 2 – 2.5 hours to reach the destination. You can keep the private car with you the whole day.
4. Sunday Night Market
It is one of the busiest markets in Chiang Mai and is the main bargaining hub for most of the visitors. You will find authentic goods made by the local Thai people. It shows the craftsmanship of the people who make the goods from silk, paper, fabric, wood, metal, glass, ceramic. The market is situated within the old city walls and stretches from the Tha Phae Gate to the Wat Phra Singh Temple on Ratchadamnoen Road. The most happening time In the Sunday markets starts after the evening time when the musicians, thai dancers and bands start to perform. This is among the Chiang Mai night markets to visit.
Activities to do in the Sunday Night Market
- Shop for hand-printed shirts, wood carvings, handmade jewelry, pottery, woven textiles, lamps, and sculptures.
- Additionally, try the local Thai delicacies like Khao Soi, Sai Oua, Mango Sticky Rice, and Pad Thai.
- Moreover, enjoy the live music and street performances.
- Finally, you can visit nearby places like the Lanna Folklife Museum, Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara, and the Three Kings Monument.
More Information
- Opening Hour: The opening time for the Sunday market is from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
- Direction: If you are staying in the old city then it is very nearby. You can walk straight to the Sunday Night Market. Alternatively you can take a tuk tuk o hire a grab to reach Sunday Market.
5. Lanna Folklife Museum
The museum was built in 1935 and was mainly used for administrative matters. It was the home of the eight rulers of Chiang Mai, Chao Intavaroros Suriyavongse. To learn about the tradition, culture and history about the area it is best to visit this museum, one of the most enriching cultural places to visit in Chiang Mai. The building was turned into a museum by the Department of Treasury and the Court of Justice. You can not get bored in the museum as there are a number of activities you can get engaged in like wear the traditional Lanna costume, participate in lanna calligraphy class, go for Lanna food tasting and participate in Lanna lifestyle workshop.
Activities to do in the Lanna Folklife Museum
- Learn about the Hae Khrua Than Lanna dance and singing.
- Learn about cosmology, politics, astrology, literature, and more, all displayed through various artifacts
- Explore the Lanna Mural painting. Discover the artistic style of Chiang Mai artisans, including influences from other kingdoms.
More Information
- Opening Hour: The opening time for the Lanna Folklife Museum is from Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 pm to 7:00pm. To make the most of your visit it is best to visit the museum during the cool and dry season which runs from November to February
- Entry Fee: The Lanna Folklife Museum in Chiang Mai has an entry fee of 90 baht for adults and 40 baht for children
- Direction: If you are staying within the old city, then you can reach the location on foot. Search for the Three Kings Monument as a landmark; the museum is situated directly across from it. Alternatively you can take the tuk tuk or hire a grab to reach the destination.
6. Chang Puak Gate Night Market
If you want to get the authentic thai taste in Chiang Mai then you have to visit the Chang Puak Gate Night Market. Here you will get the best thai food that will leave your tummy wanting for more. Some of the must try dishes include the Khao Soi (Northern Thai noodle soup), Sai Oua (a spicy sausage), and Mango Sticky Rice. There are many famous stalls in this place, some of them are Changphuak Suki, Cowboy Hat Lady, and Yellow Stir-Fry Food Stall. It is best to visit the place between 5pm – 7pm when there is less crowd. The night vibe and open-air setup make it one of the most vibrant places to visit in Chiang Mai for couples.
Activities to do in the Chang Puak Gate Night Market
- Try the local Thai cuisine as the market is a hub for street food and local delicacies
- Enjoy the live music which the local stalls are playing improving the experience of the market
- Take good pictures during sunset with canals in the background
- You can visit other beautiful attraction like the Wat Lok Moli, Wat Ratchamonthian, and Wat Chiang Man
More Information
- Opening Hour: The Chang Puak Gate Night Market is open everyday from 5:30 pm till midnight
- Entry Fee: There is no entrance fee to enter the Chang Puak Gate Night Market. It is a public place and can be accessed by anyone during the day
- Direction: You can reach Chang Puak Gate Night Market by walking. Simply head towards Chang Phuak Gate, and you’ll find the market next to it. Alternatively you can take the tuk tuk or hire a grab to reach the destination.
7. Wat Phra Singh
It is one of the most visited temples in the old city of Chiang Mai. Its construction was initiated by King Phayu, the fifth ruler of the Mengrai Dynasty, to enshrine the ashes of his father, King Khamfu.Later on, many buildings were constructed. In the beginning the name of the temple was Wat Phra Chiang and later on it was changed to Wat Phra Singh. The most important structure of the temple is the Viharn Lai Kham. It stands today as one of the famous sightseeing places in Chiang Mai. The walls of the Vihran lai kham tells stories about the Sangthong and Suwanna Hong
Activities to do in the Wat Phra Singh
- Offer prayers and pay respect to the Buddha images including the Phra Buddha Sihing statue.
- During the songram festival you can observe the tradition of pouring scented water over Buddha images.
- Interact with the monks in the temple who are open to share mre insights about the Wat Phra Singh.
- Also, you can explore other attraction near the temple like the Wat Prasat Temple, Wat Pan Ping, and Wat Pha Bong (Mank Kalaram).
More Information
- Opening Hour: The Wat Phra Singh is open daily from 6:30 am – 6:00 pm. However the best time to visit the temple would be in the morning when it is peaceful and less crowded.
- Entry Fee: There is no entrance fee to enter the Wat Phra Singh temple. You can visit the temple anytime you want
- Direction: You can reach Wat Phra Singh via three routes. First is by walking which is the easiest route especially if you are staying within the old city. Other options are to take the bus or tuk tuk to reach the destination.
8. San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
If you are a nature lover then head straight to the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. The San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is amidst a beautiful garden which has many beautiful flowers. These springs are among the most peaceful nature places to explore near Chiang Mai, especially during cooler months.
It is the best spot to relax and chill. You can swim in the San kamphaeng Hot spring which will help you to relax your muscles and also provide many health benefits. San Kamphaeng Hot Springs has two hot springs with water height reaching up to 20 metres and the temperature of the water is usually above 100 degree celsius.
Activities to do in the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
- The water is really hot, you can also boil eggs in the water.
- Dip your feet in the warm, mineral-rich water for a relaxing experience.
- Moreover, you will find that some resorts near the hot spring offer spa massages using the mineral water.
- Additionally, you can visit other nearby attractions like the Muang On Cave, Bo Sang Umbrella Village, Dutch Farm, and the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum.
More Information
- Opening Hour: San Kamphaeng Hot Springs in Chiang Mai is open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM
- Entry Fee: The entry fee to San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is 100 Baht for foreigners and around 40 Baht for the local people.
- Direction: San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, located in Mae On District, is approximately 40 km east of Chiang Mai. To get there, you can take a van from Chiang Mai to San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. Typically, the van can accommodate 14 people and is very convenient for reaching the destination.
9. Elephant Nature Park
Lek Chailert began her work in elephant conservation in 1996. In 1998, Chailert discovered Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai Province with Adam Flinn of Green Tours. This destination is ideal if you’re looking for family-friendly places in Chiang Mai or even for those searching for must-visit places in Chiang Mai with family.
Chailert held a separate area called “Elephant Heaven” for especially traumatised elephants. Her long-term vision was to transform the park into a sanctuary. Today the park offers protection to Elephants who were once subjected to cruel treatment. You will find elephants from all walks of life – the blind, crippled, orphaned, and senior elephant. Here all the elephants are treated equally and with love and respect..
Activities to do in the Elephant Nature Park
- Visitors can prepare food for the elephants and then gently feed them allowing a close interaction with the elephants
- You can walk alongside the elephants and they explore their natural surroundings, including forests and rivers, and observe them foraging and playing.
- Visitors are also allowed to give bath to the elephants or observe from far the elephants taking a refreshing mud bath or swim
- You can explore other attractions like the Elephant Haven, Erawan Waterfalls, and Erawan National Park
More Information
- Opening Hour: The Elephant Nature Park is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. However the best time to visit the park would be in the morning when it is less sunny and less crowded.
- Entry Fee: The entry fee for the Elephant Nature Park is 2500 Baht for both adults and children,
- Direction: The easiest way to reach the Elephant Nature Park would be to take a taxi or bus to reach the location.
10. The Tiger Kingdom
Have you ever visited a zoo and got close with the animal in your wildest dream? I do not think so. But it is very much possible in the Tiger Kingdom to get close to the tiger and take instagram worthy pictures. It is done under the watchful supervision of the professionals who are trained to take care of the animals. Unlike other traditional zoos where getting close to the animals or taking photographs is prohibited, this particular kingdom even allows you to feed the tigers and play with them for a certain amount of time. For those who want excitement, it is one of the top Chiang Mai adventure places.
Activities to do in the The Tiger Kingdom
- You can interact with the tigers in a safe environment.
- Additionally, you can take photographs with the tiger.
- Furthermore, learn about tiger behaviour and the conservation efforts for tigers from the experts.
- Finally, you can visit other attractions like Doi Inthanon National Park, Maerim Elephant Sanctuary, and the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden.
More Information
- Opening Hour: The tiger kingdom is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. It will take you approximately 2 – 3 hours to explore the tiger kingdom
- Entry Fee: The entry fee depends on the tiger size and experience you choose. It varies from 250 to 1700 Baht.
- Direction: You can take the Blue Songtaews (Local Buses) or hire a taxi to reach the destination.
