Things to do in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a must-visit city that you should check out on your next trip to Thailand. Beyond your usual travel hubs like Bangkok and Phuket, Chiang Mai also offers a uniquely exciting experience.
It has its own culture, local food, and beautiful places worth exploring, especially for first-time travellers. If you’re a first-timer in this region, take a look at these 21 things to do in Chiang Mai to enjoy your vacation in the city.
What is Chiang Mai famous for?
Chiang Mai is one of the most popular destinations. The city is well-known for its lush jungles, mountains, and waterfalls, offering opportunities for outdoor activities like trekking, zip-lining, white-water rafting, and visiting hill tribe villages. Moreover, if you like temples and local culture, the temples in Chiang Mai temples showcase stunning architecture, intricate designs, and rich cultural heritage, attracting visitors interested in Buddhism and Thai history.
It also has local festivals such as the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, held in November during the full moon, which features mesmerizing lantern releases and cultural performances, and the Chiang Mai Food Festival, a festival celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand.
The people here in Chiang Mai are known for being kind and generous. They are very polite and friendly towards tourists. Here’s why many people love this city so much.
What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
The best time to visit Chiang Mai depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Generally, the peak tourist season in Chiang Mai falls between November and February, during the cool, dry season. This period is ideal for outdoor activities like exploring the city’s temples, trekking in the nearby mountains, and attending festivals such as Loy Krathong and Yi Peng, where you can witness the breathtaking sight of thousands of lanterns lighting up the night sky.
On the other hand, if you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind slightly warmer temperatures, visiting during the shoulder seasons of March to June or September to October can be rewarding. During these times, you can still enjoy many of the city’s attractions and activities while experiencing lower accommodation rates and a more relaxed atmosphere. Just be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially in April and May, which mark the beginning of the wet season.
How do I get to Chiang Mai?
You can get to Chiang Mai via train, bus, and plane. Of course, a flight will be the most convenient, but it can be pricey. So, alternatively, you can ride on a train from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station in Bangkok. The train ride takes about 13-14 hours to reach the station in Chiang Mai. If you want to find out how to ride a train in Bangkok, check out our train guide here.
Bus is another low-budget option if you are okay with sitting for a long period of time. You can head to Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal. It’s located next to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station. Here, you can catch a Bangkok-Chiang Mai bus to this lovely northern province.
Attractions/landmarks to visit
1. Explore Chiang Mai Old Town
Image credit: @dosihipy via Instagram
The first thing you can do when you find yourself in Chiang Mai is explore its Old Town, located conveniently in the city centre. The area is surrounded by the Tha Phae Gate – old famous walls that look amazingly imposing both in photos and in person.
The Old Town offers many places to sightsee as well as cafes and restaurants to eat. It’s a good place for first-timers to come and get an overview of the city.
Here are some famous places you can visit:
- Tha Phae Gate
- Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Three Kings Monument
- Chiang Mai Art and Cultural Centre
- Sunday Night Market
- Wua Lai Walking Street
- Nong Buak Haad Public Park
- MARS.cnx
- Fern Forest Cafe
It’s easy to travel around the Old Town. You can walk, ride a bicycle, or board Rod Daeng – a local red pick-up taxi.
Address: Old City, Chiang Mai 50200
How to get here: From the airport to the Old Town, you can take a Chiang Mai city bus at ฿20 (~USD0.58) for the whole route, a Rod Daeng or an Airport Shuttle Bus from ฿50 (~USD1.45)/trip. For Rod Daeng, the fare is negotiable.
2. Admire international gardens at Royal Park Rajapruek
Image credit: @royalparkrajapruek via Instagram
For flower lovers, you might want to check out the Royal Park Rajapruek – a large park offering gorgeous gardens.
Upon arriving, you’ll spot the Ho Kham Luang Royal Pavilion sitting in the middle of the park and surrounded by a pond. The pavilion stands out with its giant size and Lanna-style architecture, a representation of local Chiang Mai culture. The interior shows many intricate and beautiful patterns on its walls and columns.
Image credit: @royalparkrajapruek via Instagram
The park features over 33 international gardens such as a Japanese garden, a Korean garden, an Indian garden etc.
There are also many species of plants to admire, so if you love flowers, keep this place on your radar.
Address: 334, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100
Entrance fee: ฿200 (~USD5.82)/person
How to get here: You can drive to Royal Park Rajapruek in 30 minutes or hire a Rod Daeng to get you here. The fare is negotiable.
Contact: +66 5 311 4110
3. Visit San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
Image credit: @chin_anc via Instagram
Head to San Kamphaeng Hot Springs to boil eggs in 100°C water and bathe yourself with warm mineral water in the same place.
The place has two hot springs. The first one is where you can boil eggs in a basket which you can buy from a shop at the site.
Image credit: @un_e80 via Instagram
The second one comes in winding streams with heated water where you can soak your feet for free and enjoy a well-decorated garden.
You can also bathe yourself in a swimming pool with warm mineral water, from ฿60 (~USD1.75)/person. If interested, you can contact the employees at the hot springs.
Address: 1 Ban Sa Ha Khon, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Entrance fee: ฿100 (~USD2.91)/person
How to get here: It’s best to drive your own car to San Kamphaeng Hot Springs as it’s quite far from the city’s downtown. Driving to the place takes about one hour. You can also take a yellow local pick-up car from Ton Lam Yai Market to San Kamphaeg to reach San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, from ฿40 (~USD1.16).
Contact: +66 8 7659 1791
4. Camp at Huai Nam Dang National Park
Image credit: @aaun.chanyut via Instagram
Camping is a popular activity among Thai people during winter, and Chiang Mai is a well-liked destination.
Huai Nam Dang National Park is a famous national park where you can camp and spend time with nature. The place offers green mountains in the fog, sunrise watching, and star gazing. During the winter, you can see some cherry blossoms in many spots.
If you’ve been working hard for a long period of time, it’s a great idea to take a retreat at this gorgeous place.
Camping here costs from ฿30 (~USD0.88)/person – the price may differ for foreigners. If you don’t have your own tent, you can rent one at the location from ฿225 (~USD6.58)/tent, which can take up to three people.
Address: Kuet Chang, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150
Entrance fee: ฿300 (~USD8.77)/foreigner | ฿50 (~USD1.46)/Thai person
How to get here: Driving a personal car is the best way to get to Huai Nam Dang National Park because it’s located far from the city. It can be a struggle to find a taxi or a bus to take you there.
Contact: +66 2 5620 7603
5. Roam around Kad Farang & Chill at a Thai-style Starbucks
Image credit: @kunwadeek via Instagram
Kad Farang is situated on the southern outskirts of Chiang Mai. While it may be a bit distant from the city centre, we believe its unique features merit its inclusion on this list.
Its shopping area boasts traditional Thai-style shops with a bustling walking street featuring modern outlets that wouldn’t feel out of place in a European marketplace. You’ll come across an alley adorned with branded clothing stores and well-known brands at VAT-free prices for some retail therapy.
Image credit: @aden37101 via Instagram
The most outstanding establishment in this place would be a Thai-style Starbucks that would surprise you with its peculiar old-timey design. And, it’s surrounded by vegetation, making it a good spot to chill out for an hour.
Address: Ban Waen, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230
Opening Hours: 7am–9pm, Daily
How to get there: Get on a van at Chiang Mai Gate Market and hop on a yellow เชียงใหม่-จอมทอง shuttle car across the market. Let the driver know that you want to get off at Kad Farang.
Contact: Kad Farang’s Facebook
6. Take a relaxing trip to Ban Mae Kampong
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Ban Mae Kampong is a small village hidden in a valley in Chiang Mai. With many food stalls and shops to explore, the village will give you relaxing vibes amidst greenery.
Image credit: @narmvpd.s via Instagram
Nearby, you’ll discover a small waterfall where you can rejuvenate amidst fresh air and the soothing sounds of nature. It is a perfect place for 9-to-5 workers to declutter their minds.
Address: Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
How to get there: Ride on a van from Warorot Market to the village (4 times per day: 07.40am/ 09.30am/ 11.40am & 14.30pm). To go back to the city, you can wait at the bus stop where you get off at the village.
Activities to do
7. Shop at One Nimman
Image credit: @trannguyen.0212 via Instagram
If shopping is what brings a smile to your face, One Nimman is a community mall that you’ll enjoy.
You might be surprised once you see the buildings’ designs, as they will remind you of a European city. The buildings are decked with European architecture mixed with a Lanna style – a local cultural design, so they appear chic and photogenic for visitors.
The highlight of this place is a number of clothing shops, food stalls, and cafes you’ll find. There’s also a dining area in its square where you can hang out with your friends.
Address: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
How to get here: You can hail a taxi motorcycle or a Rod Daeng to reach One Nimman from ฿50 (~USD1.45)/trip. For Rod Daeng, the fare is negotiable.
Contact: +66 5 208 0900
8. Pay respects to Buddha at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
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Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a famous temple complex with an outstanding huge golden pagoda. It offers prayer halls with Buddha statues where you can pay respects. The temple is highly visited by a lot of Thai and foreign tourists.
Image credit: @russ.lum via Instagram
Another highlight is its 306-step staircase decked with Thai mythical snakes on both sides. It’s one of the popular photo spots for visitors.
To get to the temple, you can either walk up the stairs or take a cable car at ฿50 (~USD1.45)/trip.
Image credit: @nationalgraphic_nat via Instagram
Once you get to the temple, there’s a spot where you can enjoy a scenic view of the city and the green mountains from afar.
Address: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Entrance fee: ฿50 (~USD1.45)/person
How to get here: You can drive from the city centre to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in 30 minutes or hail a taxi to Chiang Mai University or Chiang Mai Zoo and board Rod Daeng – you can find many Rod Daengs available here.
9. Paddle a kayak along Ping River at Wat Fha Ham
Image credit: @s.sugarnook via Instagram
If you’re looking for a relaxing thing to do, try paddling a kayak along Ping River in Chiang Mai.
Visit Wat Fha Ham and go to the back of the temple to rent a kayak and paddle at ฿100 (~USD2.91)/person. There’s no time limit for the rent; however, you have to return the boat by 7pm.
While paddling, you can take pics and enjoy the ambience and scenery of the city along the river.
Address: Fa Ham, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000
How to get here: Drive or board a Rod Daeng to Wat Fha Ham.
10. Enjoy your time at Grand Canyon Water Park
Image credit: @eak.cnx via Instagram
Fans of water parks can enjoy water activities at Grand Canyon Water Park. The park is located in a steep-sided canyon, similar to the Grand Canyon in the USA, and it offers floating waterslides, a trampoline, ziplining, kayaking, and wakeboarding. If you’re looking for excitement during a summer trip to Chiang Mai, this water park promises a fun experience.
For safety, they provide lifeguards on duty at all times and guests must wear a lifejacket while doing activities on the water.
Image credit: @nnnnapa via Instagram
The admission ticket costs from ฿700 (~USD2.91)/adult, not including wakeboarding.
Address: 202 Nam Phrae, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230
How to get here: We recommend driving a car or calling an Uber to the Grand Canyon Water Park. Taking a Rod Daeng can be more expensive.
Contact: +66 5 201 0565
11. Adventure in Chiang Dao Cave
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For passionate adventurers, you might enjoy exploring Chiang Dao Cave at Wat Tham Chiang Dao.
The cave is quite big and great for those who want to go adventuring into its many tunnels. There are many photogenic stalactites and cave formations to snap pics of.
Image credit: @eevaeve via Instagram
Inside the cave lies many Buddha statues that you can pay homage to.
Though the location is far from the city, it’s worth taking a trip for those who love exploring caves.
Address: 273 Moo 5 Chiang Dao, Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai 50170
Entrance fee: From ฿40 (~USD1.17)/person
How to get here: We recommend driving there yourself as Wat Tham Chiang Dao is located an hour and a half away from Chiang Mai’s downtown.
12. Enjoy whitewater rafting at Mae Taeng River
Image credit: @8adventures.chiangmai via Instagram
We’re sure that whitewater rafting on the Mae Taeng River is a fun activity you won’t want to skip if you’re an adventurous person. The waves on this river come at varying speeds, so whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll enjoy the ride.
If you are interested, you can check out 8Adventures. They offer classes for beginners as well as a guided tour along with overnight accommodation from ฿2,500 (~USD78) per person.
Address: 21/22 Soi 2 Thorakamanakom Muang Chiang Mai, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300
How to get there: Driving there yourself would be advisable.
Contact: +66 8 9000 7728 | 8Adventures’ Facebook
13. Capture beautiful panoramic views on a hot-air balloon
Image credit: @balloonadventurethailand via Instagram
If you’ve ever dreamed of taking in a 360° view of the landscape in Chiang Mai but are too lazy to trek up a mountain, Balloon Adventure Thailand is your go-to friend.
Starting from ฿8,800 (~USD246) per person in a shared ride of 3-4 people, they allow you to witness the sun rising above the horizon in the city. Looking around, you’ll be impressed by remarkable mountain ranges and green fields.
The hot air balloon rides in Chiang Mai depart from either Horizon Village And Resort or Phusanfah Resort. The ride lasts approximately an hour, giving you plenty of time to capture memorable aerial photos with your friends. Before the flight, you’ll receive pre-launch drinks to calm any pre-flight nerves, and upon landing, there’s a champagne celebration. Additionally, they provide a flight certificate as a keepsake of the experience.
Address: 118, Tambon San Pa Pao, Amphoe San Sai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50220
Opening hours: 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri
How to get there: Driving there yourself or hailing a taxi would be recommended.
Contact: +66 8 9685 1188 | Balloon Adventure Thailand’s website
14. Climb up to Doi Inthanon
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Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand, standing at 2,565 meters (8,415 feet) above sea level. It is a cherished destination among copious travellers who visit Chiang Mai.
This national park is home to diverse flora and fauna, along with numerous waterfalls. The hiking trails in Chiang Mai’s cool climate are leisurely and present a range of attractions to explore, with the summit of Doi Inthanon being the most renowned.
Reaching the summit rewards you with awe-inspiring views that make the journey worth every step.
Also, find out more things to do here.
Address: 119 Doi Inthanon National Park, Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50160
Opening hours: 5.30am-6.30pm, Daily
Contact: +66 5 328 6729
Admission: ฿300, ~USD8.5for adult, ฿150, ~USD4.2 for children
How to get there: You can try hiring a Rod Daeng — a local shuttle vehicle — in the city to take you to Doi Inthanon; or, visit Chiang Mai Gate Market and hop on a yellow เชียงใหม่-จอมทอง shuttle car across the market. You can ride it to Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan, get off there, and take another local pick-up car in the area to Doi Inthanon. However, we recommend renting a personal car or a motorcycle and driving there on your own. It’d be more convenient.
Food to eat
15. Eat khao soi — A popular local dish
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Khao soi is the most well-known local dish that Chiang Mai visitors love to try when they visit the city for the first time, so if you’ve never eaten it before, we recommend giving it a go.
The dish is a creamy, slightly spicy curry soup consisting of chicken or beef, egg noodles, and topped with crunchy noodles and a lime wedge.
There are many famed khao soi restaurants to try in the city:
- Khao Soi Maesai (ข้าวซอยแม่สาย)
- Kaosoy Nimman (ข้าวซอยนิมมาน)
- Khao Soi Lam Duan Fha Ham (ข้าวซอยลำดวนฟ้าฮ่าม)
- Khao Soi Islam (ข้าวซอยอิสลาม)
You can visit these restaurants by riding a local Rod Daeng.
16. Nam prik num + pork rinds — enjoy it along with jasmine rice
Image credit: แคบหมูแม่พัชรา น้ำพริกหนุ่ม ของฝากเชียงใหม่ via Facebook
Nam Prik Num is a traditional Thai green chilli dip that’s popular in Northern Thailand. It’s typically made with roasted green chillies, garlic, shallots, shrimp paste, and sometimes tomatoes. The ingredients are pounded together in a mortar and pestle to create a flavorful and spicy dip.
The dip is usually served with veggies and pork rinds, which you can eat along with rice. You can find this dip at many local curry and rice shops.
Some famous restaurants with worth-trying nam prik num:
17. Kaeng hang le — a rich Northern Thai pork curry
Image credit: Kapook
The next must-try dish is kaeng hang le. The dish is a tasty Northern Thai curry dish made with tender pork and a mix of aromatic spices. It’s slow-cooked to perfection, giving the pork a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, flavorful sauce. The spices add a bit of heat and depth, while the sweetness from ingredients like palm sugar and tamarind paste balances out the flavours. It’s usually served with rice or noodles and is a favourite among locals for its comforting and satisfying taste.
Some good restaurants you can enjoy kaeng hang le in Chiang Mai:
18. Nam ngiao + rice noodles — a tangy and spicy soup filled with rice vermicelli
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Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao is a dish that hails from the northern parts of Thailand, often found in spots like Chiang Mai and nearby areas. It’s basically khanom jeen noodles, rice noodles made from sticky rice flour, served in a soupy mix that’s tangy and spicy thanks to the Nam Ngiao curry paste. You’ll usually find some pork or minced pork in there, plus a bunch of fresh veg like bean sprouts, Chinese cabbage, and coriander, all thrown in to boost the flavour and keep things nice and fresh.
What sets Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao apart is its smooth, soft texture and that zingy, aromatic, and spicy kick it delivers, thanks to the mix of ingredients that make it pop.
Recommended spots to try:
- Khanom Jeen Chang Moi 100 years (ขนมจีนช้างม่อย ร้อยปี)
- Khanom Jeen Pa Rai (ขนมจีนป้าไร)
- Nam Ngiaw Loong Pong (น้ำเงี้ยวลุงพงษ์)
There are additional northern food items you can try, including Sai Ua, Kaeng Khanun, Khao Kan Jin, Miang Kham, and more. Eating these items in their region for their genuine tastes is best.
Glamping spots to stay
19. Morning Star Glamping — minimalist glass huts amidst greenery
Image credit: @morning_star_glamping via Instagram
Morning Star Glamping offers a unique experience with its all-glass and all-white huts, ideal for social media influencers and photography enthusiasts. The huts are designed with an open-concept layout, allowing ample sunlight to create stunning morning views.
Image credit: @morning_star_glamping via Instagram
Guests can indulge in the minimalist luxury of Morning Star Glamping’s all-white hut for ฿8,900 (~USD260.10) per night. The resort offers a variety of options, including indoor and outdoor tubs, allowing guests to tailor their Chiang Mai glamping experience to their preferences.
As night falls and darkness blankets the sky, seize the chance to indulge in some stargazing.
Address: Mae On 59/1 Moo 2 Ban Mae Lai Huai Kaeo, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Opening hours: 24 hrs, Daily
Contact: +66 9 3624 5155 | Morning Star Glamping Facebook | Google Maps
20. Baan Phu Mork Chiang Mai — Glamping tents & farmhouse-style lodging
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Nestled in the scenic valleys of Mon Cham, Baan Phu Mork beckons with a range of accommodations, from spacious XL glamping tents to inviting farm-style rooms from ฿1,990 (~USD58.16)/night, ensuring a delightful experience during your stay. During your stay at Baan Phu Mork, you can fill your days with invigorating mountain hikes and delightful photo-taking sessions amidst their famously colourful and stunning flower fields.
Image credit: @bowy.apinya via Instagram
Baan Phu Mork’s farmhouse vibe, complete with bamboo stacked walls and barn-inspired doors, sets a rustic yet charming atmosphere. You won’t need an alarm here; wake up naturally to the stunning morning sun, especially if you prefer to sleep with open curtains.
Address: 118 Moo 11 Mae Rim, Chiang Mai 50180
Opening hours: 6pm-12am, Daily
Contact: +66 8 2894 6861 | Baan Phu Mok’s Facebook | Google Maps
21. BubbleSky Glamping Chiang Mai — clear bubble dome overlooking mountains
Image credit: BubbleSky Glamping Chiangmai via Instagram
BubbleSky Chiang Mai has gorgeous bubble domes lined up for guests to choose from, for ฿3,500 (~USD102.29) per night. You can enjoy staying in one of these clear bubble domes, which evoke a fairytale-like atmosphere.
Image credit: BubbleSky Glamping Chiangmai via Instagram
The resort also features numerous Instagram-worthy photo spots, including an iconic swing that provides stunning views of the mountain valleys of Chiang Mai, making it perfect for afternoon posing sessions.
Image credit: BubbleSky Glamping Chiangmai via Instagram
While there are many bubble dome camps in Chiang Mai, BubbleSky stands out as an affordable option that guarantees a memorable and picturesque staycation.
If these options still don’t interest you, find out more at this glamping spots list.
Address: Unnamed Road Pong Yaeng, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
Opening hours: 24 hrs, Daily
Contact: +66 9 2624 8014 | BubbleSky Glamping’s Facebook | Google Maps
Enjoy your vacation in Chiang Mai
For those who are first-timers in Thailand, Chiang Mai is a must-visit city that will give a fun experience totally different from Bangkok. It’s full of culture, great food, and awe-inspiring nature. If you want to make your trip complete, add Chiang Mai to your travel list.
Enjoy these 10 things you can do while having a holiday in Chiang Mai. Feel free to share it with your friends who dream of visiting Chiang Mai anytime soon.
For more travel ideas, don’t forget to check out 12 things to do in old town Phuket, our Kanchanaburi guide, and 8 historical parks in Thailand.
Cover image adapted from: @dosihipy via Instagram, @royalparkrajapruek via Instagram, @eak.cnx via Instagram and @aaun.chanyut via Instagram