Welcome to Chiang Mai :-). Chiang Mai, a little gem up in northern Thailand, serves up a seriously addictive mix of ancient temples, buzzing markets, lush nature, and one-of-a-kind cultural moments.
True, you won’t find beaches here—but honestly, that’s part of the charm. It makes Chiang Mai feel a bit more mysterious, a bit more magical. So here are some can’t-miss spots and a few hidden gems around the city.
Here you’ll find recommendations for:
- Popular temples
- Main markets
- Elephant encounters
- Things to do for nature lovers
- Things to do for families and kids
- Chiang Mai for action/adrenaline lovers
- Chiang Mai for couples
🗺️ For general info about Chiang Mai (including a map), click here…
What’s inside:
Things to Do in Chiang Mai – Top Attractions
1. Temples
In Chiang Mai—aka the “Rose of the North”—you’ll find 300+ temples, and each one has its own story. The heart of Chiang Mai really lives in its temples: gorgeous structures that show off the city’s deep Buddhist heritage. And they’re not just pretty buildings—they’re living, breathing community hubs. Monks in saffron robes chant prayers, locals light incense offerings, and the whole place feels calm in the best way. Catching these rituals in real life is basically a shortcut to understanding the city’s soul.
Beyond the two most famous temples—Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Chedi Luang, which we covered in our article about eight must-know Chiang Mai attractions—here are a few more special picks:
Wat Chiang Man (the oldest temple)
Step back in time at Wat Chiang Man, Chiang Mai’s oldest temple, dating all the way back to the 13th century. You can geek out (in a good way) over classic Lanna-style architecture—think elegant roofs and detailed wood carvings. Legend has it the Emerald Buddha statue once stayed here before moving on to Bangkok.
What’s special: Its historical importance and the chance to see a beautifully preserved example of Lanna architecture make Wat Chiang Man a standout.
Where: Inside the Old City walls, near the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
When: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Tips: Pair your visit with the nearby Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.
Wat Umong (the Tunnel Temple)
Treat yourself to something a little different at Wat Umong, also known as the “Tunnel Temple.” It’s a maze of underground tunnels and little chambers decorated with Buddha statues and murals. Climb up to the chedi for a panoramic view, then wander the quiet gardens and reset your brain.
What’s special: The underground tunnels are a real magnet for curious travelers—and they feel like a hidden world.
Where: A short distance outside the Old City walls, west of Wat Suan Dok
When: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes—the tunnel floors can be uneven. Bring a flashlight if you’re planning to explore on your own.
Wat Phra Singh (Temple of the Lion)
Wat Phra Singh is one of Chiang Mai’s most revered temples. Take in the intricate Lanna architecture, including the impressive Singha lion statues guarding the entrance.
What makes it special: The beautiful architecture and the collection of Buddha images—including the highly revered Phra Singh Buddha—make this a must-see temple.
Where: Inside the Old City walls, near Wat Chedi Luang
When: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Tips: Be mindful of ongoing religious ceremonies and keep things respectful.
Wat Phan Tao
This 14th-century temple is known for its gorgeous Lanna architecture and detailed wood carvings.
Location: Inside the Old City walls, Chiang Mai.
For: Anyone into art, history, and Buddhist culture.
Cost: Free entry.
Practical info: Open daily from sunrise to sunset. Dress modestly.
Tips: Combine your visit with nearby Wat Chiang Man.
How long: 30 minutes to an hour.
Best time to visit: Anytime during opening hours.
Here’s a video featuring a selection of temples in Chiang Mai:
2. Markets
Chiang Mai isn’t famous only for its temples—it’s also a total playground for market lovers. You’ve got night markets, day markets, and weekend markets. The Sunday Walking Street Market is the most famous (we wrote about it in this article..) but here are a few more markets worth adding to your list:
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
This lively night market offers a huge range of stuff—from clothes and souvenirs to local art and electronics.
Location: Inside the Old City walls, near Wat Chedi Luang
Who: Bargain hunters and anyone chasing a colorful, energetic vibe.
Cost: Free entry.
Practical info: Open daily around 5:00 PM until midnight. It’s less active on weekends.
Tips: Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Need a break? Treat yourself to a quick, glorious foot massage.
Time: 1–2 hours.
Best time to visit: Weekdays, and when the weather is cooler.
Talat Warorot – A daytime market
One of the oldest markets in town—and a local favorite. Soak up the lively atmosphere as you explore loads of clothing, souvenirs, local food stalls selling Northern Thai specialties, and fresh produce. And whatever you do, don’t skip mango sticky rice :-).
Location: Old City area, Chiang Mai.
For: Market lovers and foodies.
Cost: Free entry.
Practical info: Open daily from 6:00 AM until evening. Morning is best.
Tips: Bring cash (Thai baht), since many vendors may not take cards.
How long: 1–2 hours (or more—depending on your curiosity level).
White Market at 1 Niman Friday Market – The White Friday Market
Dive into the trendy, stylish vibe of the White Market at the Niman Friday Market. This chic market focuses on unique handmade items, locally designed clothing, and small-batch products.
Location: Nimman area, Chiang Mai.
For: Fashion lovers and anyone hunting for truly unique souvenirs.
Cost: Prices are usually higher than other markets because of the focus on design and quality.
Practical info: Open Fridays only, from around 3:00 PM until midnight.
Tips: Go early for the best selection—especially if you’ve got something specific in mind.
How long: 1–2 hours.
Changklan Rd
Head into Chiang Mai’s upbeat night-market scene along Changklan Road. You’ll find a fun mix of street-food vendors, local bars with live music, and shops selling souvenirs, products, traditional tools, and handicrafts.
Location: Night Bazaar area, Old City Chiang Mai.
For: Night owls and anyone wanting a taste of Chiang Mai nightlife.
Cost: Free.
Practical info: Open from around sunset until late at night.
Tips: Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
How long: 2–3 hours (or more).
It’s also worth reading our guide to shopping in Thailand (and how to get tax refunds, for example :-))…
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Samlor Ride – Explore Chiang Mai by samlor (the traditional rickshaw)
Consider exploring parts of the city like a local with a Samlor ride—the traditional rickshaw. These vehicles used to be everywhere, but they’re getting rarer and rarer, and now you hardly see them. Which makes it an easy, fun way to cruise around and see the sights from a totally different angle.
Tips: Agree on the price ahead of time, and make sure the driver understands your destination.
3. Ethical elephant sanctuaries around Chiang Mai
Around Chiang Mai, you’ll find plenty of chances to get outdoors and meet animals along the way. One of the most popular activities here is visiting elephant sanctuaries.
Here’s a list of some ethical places for elephant care in Chiang Mai:
1. Elephant Nature Park (ENP)
A highly respected sanctuary dedicated to elephant welfare and quality of life. It offers educational programs and focuses on observation and responsible interaction.
Activities: Watch elephants in a natural setting, learn about elephant care and conservation, and join enrichment activities (mud baths, creating foraging opportunities).
Cost: Varies depending on the program (half-day, full-day, overnight options).
Interesting tip: The site offers a unique “Care for an Elephant for a Day” program where you can help with care tasks under supervision.
Website – ENP.
2. Elephant Rescue Park
Dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants from harsh conditions. Focuses on (and aims for) releasing rehabilitated elephants back into the wild whenever possible.
Activities: Observe elephants in a natural environment, learn their personal rescue stories, and join educational talks and presentations.
Cost: Varies depending on the chosen program (half-day, full-day options).
Website
3. Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary (BLES)
A family-run conservation site providing a safe haven for rescued elephants. Offers close connection with elephants through responsible interaction.
Activities: Watch elephants roam freely, help prepare their food, observe mud baths and bathing (guided), and learn about elephant behavior.
Interesting: Offers a unique “Be a Mahout (an elephant caretaker) for a Day” program where you can learn basic elephant-care techniques (limited availability).
Website
4. Lanna Kingdom Elephant Sanctuary
Provides a safe haven for rescued elephants and focuses on ethical interactions. Offers educational programs on elephant welfare and conservation.
Activities: Observe elephants in spacious enclosures, watch mud spa and bathing (depending on the program), learn about care efforts and elephants, and find responsible interaction opportunities (limited touching or supervised feeding).
5. Chiang Mai Elephant Home
A family-run sanctuary committed to the welfare of rescued elephants. Offers educational experiences and avoids riding or intrusive interactions.
Activities: Observe elephants in a natural setting, help prepare food and feed them (guided), learn about elephant behavior and communication, and take scenic walks alongside the elephants.
Interesting: Offers a chance to connect with elephants through gentle interactions like offering food or brushing their backs.
Website
General tips for choosing an ethical sanctuary:
- Look for certification from reputable organizations like the Thai Elephant Hospital or the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand.
- Avoid conservation sites that offer elephant rides, shows, or mass bathing experiences. These activities can stress elephants out.
- Choose places that focus on observing elephants and prioritize their natural behaviors.
- Read reviews from other visitors to get insights into the sanctuary’s practices.
4. Nature activities
Chiang Mai basically hands you a golden ticket into the outdoors: lush jungles, waterfalls, mysterious green mountains, weird (in the best way) birds, orchids, unreal butterflies, and bamboo forests. Doi Inthanon National Park is the most famous (you can find info about it here.. ) and besides that—here are a few more ideas:
Mae Wang National Park
Escape the city and explore this lesser-known national park. Discover waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna, and jaw-dropping mountain scenery.
Location: About 80 km west of Chiang Mai (a car or motorbike is recommended)
For: Nature lovers and travelers looking for a less crowded experience.
Cost: Around 400 baht park entrance fee.
Practical info: Open daily. Trails vary in difficulty. More info…
Tips: Pack for hot, humid weather. Bring bug spray and sunscreen.
How long: A day trip or more, depending on your exploring plans.
Best time to visit: During the rainy season (July to October) for lush greenery and fewer crowds (watch for possible trail closures due to rain).
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
Relax and recharge at natural hot springs tucked into the jungle. Enjoy different pools with varying temperatures and soothing, therapeutic vibes.
Location: About 50 km east of Chiang Mai (a car or motorbike is recommended)
For: Anyone looking to unwind and have a unique nature experience.
Cost: Entrance fees vary depending on which hot spring complex you choose.
Practical info: Open daily. Some offer extra services like restaurants and massage.
How long: Half-day trip.
Best time to visit: Any time of year.
Huay Tung Tao Lake
Escape the city chaos and chill out by peaceful Huay Tung Tao Lake. Rent a kayak or paddle boat and glide across calm water with lush mountains all around. You’ll also find lakeside restaurants and cafes for a pretty-perfect meal with a view.
More info…
5. Chiang Mai for families
Chiang Mai is one of the most family-friendly cities in Thailand. Here are a few recommendations:
Traditional bamboo rafting on the Mae Taeng River
Head out on a family adventure with a scenic bamboo raft trip down the Mae Taeng River. Enjoy the beautiful views, take a refreshing dip in the water, and keep your eyes peeled for potential wildlife sightings.
For example, here’s a tour that includes both bamboo rafting and a visit to an elephant sanctuary…
Art in Paradise – Chiang Mai’s 3D art museum
Step into a world of optical illusions and interactive 3D art at Art in Paradise. You can snap hilarious, creative family photos with the vibrant, whimsical displays. For more info, check out their Facebook page…
A unique wildlife experience – Chiang Mai Night Safari
Go on an exciting nighttime adventure through the Chiang Mai Night Safari. Spot nocturnal animals in a natural setting from the tram and learn about their behavior.
Location: West of Royal Park Rajapruek, outside Chiang Mai city center.
For: Animal lovers and families with kids.
Cost: Entrance fees vary depending on the package (tram ride, tram ride with behind-the-scenes access, etc.).
Useful info: Open daily from early evening until around 10:00 PM.
Tips: Book tickets in advance, especially in high season. Wear comfortable shoes for walking between tram rides.
How long: Plan for 2–3 hours for the full experience.
Elephant Parade Land
Learn about elephant conservation efforts and support a good cause at Elephant Parade Land. It’s a striking art space featuring elephant-themed sculptures created by international artists. Part of the proceeds goes toward elephant conservation programs. You can check out the exhibits and also make and paint your own elephant..
Location: Chiang Mai city center.
For: Anyone interested in art, elephants, and conservation.
Cost: Free entry; donations are welcome.
Practical info: Open daily. Here’s their website…
Tips: Combine your visit with exploring nearby attractions in the Old City.
How long: 30 minutes to an hour.
Read a full guide to Chiang Mai with kids here…
Video showing the family bamboo rafting experience in Chiang Mai:
6. Chiang Mai for action/adrenaline lovers
Northern Thailand—especially around Chiang Mai—has plenty of thrills for adrenaline junkies. Here are a few ideas:
White-water rafting on the Mae Taeng River
For the real adventurers, take on the exciting rapids of the Mae Taeng River on a white-water rafting trip. Ride the waves, battle rushing rapids, all while you’re surrounded by insanely beautiful scenery.
Here are a few suggestions for specific companies…
A multi-day trek in Doi Inthanon National Park
Go for a challenging but totally rewarding multi-day trek in Doi Inthanon National Park. Hike through diverse landscapes, conquer steep climbs, camp under a sky packed with stars, and catch breathtaking sunrises over the mountains.
Rock climbing at Crazy Horse Buttress – a world-famous climbing spot
Challenge yourself with a rock-climbing adventure at Crazy Horse Buttress. Routes here work for different skill levels—so you can chase that “I did that!” feeling while soaking up panoramic views.
Location: Crazy Horse Buttress is outside Chiang Mai (transportation is often included with guided climbs).
For: Experienced climbers or anyone looking for a guided climbing experience.
Cost: Varies depending on the package (guided climbing with gear rental, climbing lesson, etc.).
Practical info: The most comfortable climbing conditions are during the cool season (November to February). But you can book guided climbs year-round..
Time: Half-day to full-day trips are available depending on your climbing experience and chosen route. Several companies specialize in climbing and offer guided trips.
⛪ Where should you stay in Chiang Mai? All the best areas + important tips…
7. Chiang Mai for couples
With its gorgeous setting—rivers, jungles, and mountains—Chiang Mai doesn’t really have to try to be romantic. It just naturally is :-). Here are a few fun ideas if you’re visiting as a couple:
Dinner cruise on the Mae Ping River
Enjoy a romantic evening cruise along the Mae Ping River while you watch the city lights and soak up that cooler night air.
A private tour at an elephant conservation and protection center
Go for a unique, unforgettable private tour with rescued elephants at Elephant Nature Park. Learn about their care and enjoy a sweet, once-in-a-lifetime moment with these gentle giants.
Thai cooking class for couples
Bond over learning Thai cooking together. Lots of cooking schools offer couple-friendly classes with a focus on romantic dishes and teamwork.
Sunset picnic at Doi Suthep
Hike or take a motorbike taxi to the top of Doi Suthep for a magical sunset. Enjoy breathtaking views and a romantic picnic overlooking the city.