Top Chiang Mai Attractions: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to See and Do in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, is one of my favorite cities in Thailand. Located in the northern part of Thailand, this beautiful city is filled with rich history, stunning temples, vibrant culture, and lush natural landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, a foodie, or a nature lover, the city offers an array of exciting attractions. Known for its blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences, Chiang Mai is a destination that is both accessible and exciting for all types of travelers.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the top Chiang Mai attractions that should definitely be on your itinerary. We will also provide important details like how to get to each attraction, the cost of entry, and opening hours so that you can make the most of your visit.
* Disclaimer: Please note some of the links in this post are affiliate links. Purchasing through these links earns us a small commission at no extra charge to you.
Chiang Mai Travel Guide – Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai
The dry or cool season which lasts from November to March is probably the best time to visit Chiang Mai. The weather is cooler and not as humid as other times of the year and tends to be perfect for hikes and other outdoor activities. If you are exploring the mountainous regions around Chiang Mai, the temperature can drop to as low as 10 degrees due to the higher altitude, so you may even need a light jacket to take along on your hike.
March to May can be quite hot and probably best to avoid visiting during this time. It is best to avoid these months when visiting Chiang Mai as it also happens to be the burning season. This is when farmers burn the remains of last season’s crops, creating big, thick clouds of smoke and causing high levels of air pollution. Humidity is high and visibility is low during this time, making it quite uncomfortable.
June to October you have the rainy season so it will make it a lot harder to plan activities outdoors. But if you are coming to Chiang Mai for the food alone, then you may be able to find your way around the rain.
How Many Days Do You Need in Chiang Mai?
It all depends on what you want out of your time in Chiang Mai. You could be in Chiang Mai for weeks and still not want to leave this incredible city. Lucky for you I’ve condensed some of the top attractions into a 3-day Chiang Mai travel itinerary. If you have 3 nights in Chiang Mai, you’ll easily get through the top attractions in the city. You may also want to explore my Ultimate 3 day Chiang Mai itinerary.
Chiang Mai Attractions
Chiang Mai is often referred to as the cultural capital of Thailand, thanks to its unique blend of ancient temples, modern art, nature reserves, and bustling markets. The city sits against a backdrop of the stunning Himalayan foothills and offers plenty of things to see and do for every kind of traveler.
One of the main attractions Chiang Mai is its historical significance. It was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, which was an independent kingdom before becoming part of modern Thailand. This rich cultural heritage is reflected in the numerous ancient temples, royal palaces, and old city walls that still stand today.
Aside from its cultural history, Chiang Mai is also an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty, including jungles, mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife. Whether you’re looking to hike through lush forests, learn about local traditions, or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, Chiang Mai has something for everyone.
Let’s explore the top Chiang Mai attractions that will give you a taste of everything this incredible city has to offer.
1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
One of the most famous and iconic Chiang Mai attractions, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a sacred temple perched on the side of Doi Suthep Mountain, overlooking the city below. The golden stupa of the temple is a sight to behold, and the panoramic views of Chiang Mai from here are nothing short of breathtaking.
How to Get There: It’s located about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the city center. You can reach it by taxi, songthaew, or motorbike. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour.
Cost: Entry fee: 30 THB for adults. There’s an additional charge (around 50 THB) for taking the cable car.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
This sacred temple is one of Thailand’s most important pilgrimage sites. The climb up the 309 steps to the temple is an experience in itself, and the panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains are stunning.
2. Chiang Mai Old City and Temples
The Chiang Mai Old City is a picturesque area surrounded by ancient walls and moats. It is home to several remarkable temples, some of the oldest and most beautiful in Thailand.
Top Temples to Visit:
- Wat Chedi Luang: Famous for its massive chedi (stupa) and historic significance.
- Wat Phra Singh: Known for its Lanna-style architecture and intricate decorations.
- Wat Chiang Man: The oldest temple in Chiang Mai, dating back to the 13th century.
How to Get There: The Old City is within walking distance of the city center. You can easily explore this area on foot, by bicycle, or tuk-tuk.
Cost: Most temples charge a small entry fee (around 20-50 THB).
Opening Hours: Typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The Old City is the heart of Chiang Mai’s cultural and historical identity. Exploring the area will give you a deeper understanding of the city’s past, its stunning architecture, and the role of Buddhism in shaping the region.
3. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience local shopping, street food, and entertainment. The market comes alive each evening, offering a diverse range of goods from local crafts to fashion, electronics, and souvenirs.
How to Get There: Located on Chang Klan Road, it is easily accessible by walking from the city center or by tuk-tuk.
Cost: No entry fee, but you’ll likely want to purchase items, with prices varying.
Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – Midnight, daily.
The vibrant atmosphere, colorful stalls, delicious street food, and live entertainment make this an exciting stop for evening exploration in Chiang Mai.
4. Doi Inthanon National Park
As the highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon is part of the Doi Inthanon National Park and offers a range of outdoor activities. The park features lush forests, waterfalls, and some of the best hiking trails in the region.
How to Get There: The park is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Chiang Mai. You can hire a car or join a guided tour.
Cost: Entry fee: 200 THB for adults. Some areas (like the King and Queen pagodas) have additional fees.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
This park is perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Hike the trails, visit majestic waterfalls like Mae Ya Waterfall, and enjoy the cool, fresh mountain air.
5. Visit an ethical Elephant Sanctuary
One of the highlights in Chiang Mai is to visit an ethical sanctuary. Elephant Nature Park is dedicated to rescuing elephants from the tourism and logging industries. It offers a unique opportunity to interact with these majestic creatures in a safe and humane environment.
How to Get There: It’s located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Chiang Mai. The park offers pick-up services from the city center.
Cost: Day tours generally cost between 2,500 and 3,000 THB.
Opening Hours: Tours typically run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, depending on the tour schedule.
If you love animals, this is a chance to support ethical tourism and learn about elephant conservation while interacting with rescued elephants in a natural setting.
6. Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium
The Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium is a family-friendly attraction that features a wide range of animals, from pandas to tigers, as well as an impressive aquarium showcasing marine life.
How to Get There: The zoo is located on Huay Kaew Road, near Doi Suthep. It’s about a 10-minute drive from the city center.
Cost: Zoo entry: 150 THB for adults. The aquarium has a separate entry fee of around 150 THB.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
Perfect for families and animal lovers, this zoo and aquarium offer an exciting chance to see wildlife up close and learn about different species.
7. Sunday Walking Street (Ratchadamnoen Road)
One of the best ways to experience Chiang Mai’s vibrant atmosphere is by visiting the Sunday Walking Street Market on Ratchadamnoen Road. This market is famous for its locally made goods, delicious food, and vibrant street performances.
How to Get There: Located along Ratchadamnoen Road in the Old City, it’s best to walk or take a tuk-tuk.
Cost: There’s no entry fee, but expect to purchase items, with prices varying.
Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM (only on Sundays).
This market is one of the best places to shop for authentic Thai handicrafts, sample street food, and experience local life at its best. Some of my favorite foods at this market were:
Miang Kham
A traditional Southeast Asian snack, Miang Kham consists of raw fresh leaves filled with roasted coconut shavings, shallots, bird’s eye chili peppers, ginger, garlic, lime, chopped unsalted peanuts or cashew nuts, and small dried shrimps. It’s a delightful one-bite wrap that’s both savory and aromatic.
Mango Sticky Rice
A classic Thai dessert featuring sweet sticky rice topped with ripe mango slices and drizzled with coconut cream. It’s a must-try for those with a sweet tooth
Khao Soi
A Northern Thai specialty, this coconut curry noodle soup is rich and flavorful, often served with crispy noodles on top. It’s a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for a filling meal.
Som Tam (Papaya Salad)
This spicy and tangy salad is made from shredded green papaya, chilies, lime, and fish sauce. It’s a refreshing and zesty dish that’s both light and flavorful.
8. Wat Chedi Luang
This ancient temple located in the Old City of Chiang Mai was built in the 14th century. This massive temple complex features a large chedi (stupa) that once housed the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most revered Buddha image.
How to Get There: The temple is within walking distance of Chiang Mai’s Old City.
Cost: Entry fee: 40 THB for foreigners.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
With its historical significance and impressive architecture, Wat Chedi Luang is one of Chiang Mai’s most important temples, offering insight into the city’s past.
9. Bo Sang Umbrella Village
The Bo Sang Umbrella Village is famous for its handmade umbrellas and parasols, which are crafted using traditional methods passed down through generations. It’s a great spot to buy unique souvenirs and learn about the art of umbrella making.
How to Get There: Located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) southeast of Chiang Mai, you can take a taxi or songthaew to the village.
Cost: Free entry, though you may wish to purchase items.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
This village offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional Thai craftsmanship and is an excellent place to purchase unique souvenirs.
10. Nimmanhaemin Road
For those who enjoy modern cafes, art galleries, and trendy boutiques, Nimmanhaemin Road is a vibrant area that has become Chiang Mai’s cultural hub. It’s perfect for shopping, dining, and enjoying the city’s modern lifestyle.
How to Get There: Nimmanhaemin Road is easily accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi from the city center.
Cost: Free to visit; costs depend on shopping and dining choices.
Opening Hours: The area is bustling with activity throughout the day and into the evening.
Nimmanhaemin Road offers a contrast to Chiang Mai’s ancient temples, providing visitors with a modern, artsy atmosphere full of cafes, shops, and creative spaces.
11. Learn how to cook Thai Akha Food
One of the absolute highlights of my recent trip to Chiang Mai was joining a cooking class with Thai Akha Kitchen, a warm and welcoming space where I got hands-on experience learning to cook traditional Thai and Akha dishes.
The Akha are a hill tribe people from Northern Thailand, and their cuisine is a unique blend of bold flavors, fragrant herbs, and cultural traditions passed down through generations.
The class kicked off with a fun and insightful guided tour of a local market, where we sampled fresh herbs, spices, and even local snacks, including some crunchy bugs for those feeling adventurous (yes, I tried one!). It was a great way to get introduced to the ingredients we’d be using.
Back in the kitchen, we got to work preparing an amazing spread:
🍛 Yellow and Green Chicken Curry
🍜 Pad Thai
🍢 Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
🍲 Tom Yum Soup
🥭 Mango Sticky Rice
The best part? It was all made from scratch, including the curry pastes. And we got to feast on everything we cooked. The instructors were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, making it an unforgettable and interactive experience. They even included my kids aged 9 and 4.
If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai and love food, this is an absolute must-do. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! You can book the class with the market tour including a full meal here. It’s more than just a cooking class, it’s a cultural experience
12. Take a private city tour of Chiang Mai
A private tour of Chiang Mai offers an immersive and personalized journey through the cultural heart of northern Thailand. This bike tour is a fun way to get around Chiang Mai to see the city in a unique way.
Over the course of 3 hours, you’ll be lead by a professional guide and ride at a comfortable pace. You’ll stop off at multiple attractions including Warorot market and the beautiful off-the-beaten-track temples. Along the way, you can try some delicious snacks and beverages for refreshment. A light lunch is also provided towards the end of the tour.
Final Thoughts on Chiang Mai Attractions
Chiang Mai is a city that offers something for everyone. From ancient temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to natural wonders like Doi Inthanon National Park and Elephant Nature Park, the city is rich in experiences that showcase Thailand’s cultural and natural beauty. Whether you’re hiking through lush forests, exploring historic sites, or shopping in vibrant markets, Chiang Mai’s attractions offer a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
By visiting these top Chiang Mai attractions, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this beautiful city and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, and get ready to explore all that Chiang Mai has to offer!
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai – Chiang Mai Accommodation
Chiang Mai offers a diverse range of accommodation options across its vibrant neighborhoods. Here’s a curated guide to five of the city’s best areas, each with budget, mid-range, and luxury choices to suit various preferences:.
If this is your first time to Chiang Mai, I highly recommend staying within the Old City walls.
1. Nimmanhaemin (Best area for digital nomads)
- Budget: Chill Chill at Nimman
- Mid-range: Stay with Nimman Chiang Mai
- Luxury: Akyra Manor Chiang Mai
2. Old City (Tha Phae Gate Area – best area for first time visitors)
- Budget: The Common Hostel
- Mid-range: Pingviman Hotel or KIRI HOTEL Chiang Mai
- Luxury: The Rachamankha Hotel
3. Riverside (best area for luxury resorts)
- Budget: Ban Narai River Guesthouse
- Mid-range: The Bridge An Eclectic Luxotel
- Luxury: Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
4. Santitham (best area for budget hotels)
- Budget: 09 Hostel
- Mid-range: The Grand Wipanan Residence
- Luxury: The Opium Serviced Apartment & Hotel
5. Night Bazaar (best area for night markets)
- Budget: Night Bazaar Place
- Mid-range: Nap in Chiang Mai Hotel or Dusit D2 Chiang Mai
- Luxury: Shangri-La Chiang Mai or Chiang Mai Marriot Hotel
Note: The information here is updated the best we can at the time of writing this article. Please check attractions, activities, and transport before your trip as things tend to change from time to time.
