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45 Absolute Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Home » Blog » Thailand » 45 Absolute Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

We’ve rounded up a list of the best things to do in Chiang Mai that will make your trip a memorable one. We have spent more than a year living in Chiang Mai, Thailand so we know this city inside and out! We’re sharing both top Chiang Mai attractions as well as local secrets you won’t find in the guidebooks. 

Surrounded by lush mountains and dotted with historic temples, Chiang Mai is the best hub for exploring northern Thailand. This city has a rare combination of adventure, nature, culture, history, food, and modern comforts ; a blend that makes it one of our favorite cities in the world.

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, we’ve got you covered with a huge list of fun things to do in Chiang Mai. And this isn’t just any list you’ll find online or in the guidebooks…

We’ve spent a lot of time in Chiang Mai. Like a LOT . We even called it home for a year, so we know this city really well. 

We’ve rounded up the top Chiang Mai attractions as well as our favorite off-the-beaten-path things to do in this city. And trust us, with this handy guide, you’ll never find yourself wondering what to do.

This guide is chock full of insider tips and hidden gems , so you’ll definitely want to bookmark this page or pin it for later! We genuinely hope this guide helps you as you plan your trip to Thailand (or fuels your wanderlust!).

Chiang Mai Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Chiang Mai, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

Things NOT to do in Chiang Mai

• How many days do you need?

Best time to visit Chiang Mai

• How to get there from the airport
• How to get around Chiang Mai

Tips for visiting Chiang Mai

Where to eat in chiang mai, where to stay in chiang mai, top things to do in chiang mai.

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Chiang Mai, here are our top recommendations. 

• Climb up “Sticky Waterfalls”
• Hike the Pilgrim’s Path to a temple in the jungle (Wat Pha Lat)
• See elephants in Chiang Mai the responsible way
• Paddle down river with a Bamboo Raft
• Go temple hopping
• Visit Doi Suthep Temple (Wat Phra That)
• Shop for souvenirs at one of Chiang Mai’s Night Markets 
• Take a Thai Cooking Class
• Try Khao Soi in Chiang Mai
• Explore Doi Inthanon National Park

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand. 

1. Climb up “Sticky Waterfalls”

Most waterfalls you think of are extremely slippery due to the massive build up of mossy rocks and fast moving water. The Bua Thong Waterfalls (also known as “Sticky Waterfalls”) are unique because they are fed by a spring rich in minerals.

Due to the mineral deposits in the water, the rocks have become porous and slightly spongy, allowing you to walk up them with bare feet (perfect for anyone with “wandering soles”—see what I did there!)

There are a couple sections to the tiered-waterfall, but our favorite was at the very bottom where the falls drop about thirty feet and you are able to climb around them. It’s a great way to cool down on a hot day! 

After you’re done playing the falls, head up the small set of stairs opposite of the falls which leads to the source of the spring. The spring itself is a deep hole filled with vibrant blue water. 

Read our complete guide to visiting Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Tong) for directions on how to get there and what to expect. 

Don’t want to do it on your own? This tour through Airbnb Experiences earns rave reviews and makes visiting easy!

2. Hike the Pilgrim’s Path to a temple in the jungle (Wat Pha Lat)

There are dozens of temples in Chiang Mai, but Wat Pha Lat is our favorite temple we’ve visited by far.

First, it is surrounded by the jungle, so it has a completely different feel than the temples within the Old City. Second, it can only be reached by hiking , which eliminates many tourists. The crowds at Wat Pha Lat are far fewer than at many of the other temples in Chiang Mai, so it feels really special.

After an easy 30 – 40-minute hike on the Pilgrim’s Path , you’ll be rewarded with bamboo forests, the sound of chirping birds, a trickling waterfall, and monks completing their daily chores. Allow yourself at least 30 minutes to wander around, take photos and enjoy this beautiful place. 

There is a small stand selling coffee and clean restrooms on the temple grounds. 

How to get to Wat Pha Lat Temple via the Pilgrim’s Path

Take a red truck to the D Condo Apartment building (30 baht from old city). Walk west towards the mountain and at the first intersection after D Condo, turn right and walk about 200 meters and turn left. You are now on Pilgrim’s Path road. 

Keep heading west towards the mountain until you see the trailhead and a motorbike parking area. This is where you will start your hike. It should take you about 30 minutes from the trailhead to reach Wat Pha Lat (1.5 km). 

Local Tip: Sometimes Google Maps falls short of details around Chiang Mai. The best app to find hiking trails around Doi Suthep mountain is Maps.Me. Download the app and then download Chiang Mai region.

3. See elephants in Chiang Mai the responsible way

Seeing an elephant up close is on pretty much everyone’s bucket list in Thailand. But before we delve into where to see elephants in Chiang Mai, we are going over some very important things to consider when you book your elephant experience. 

If you just skim this section over and don’t do much research, your actions can actually be very harmful to the elephants you just wanna cuddle.

Read this before you visit an Elephant “Sanctuary” in Thailand

Today, many travelers are educated about why you should not ride elephants, and instead decide to visit “elephant sanctuaries” while on vacation in Thailand. Although this is a great shift, there are some things you should know before you book just any “sanctuary”…

Here’s a little insight we’ve learned while living in Chiang Mai: As the demand for sanctuaries grows, there are unfortunately some places that are capitalizing on this and calling themselves “sanctuaries” without truly doing what’s right for the elephants. 

We’ve heard stories that after tourists leave, the way they treat their animals (and staff members) isn’t always great.

To be totally honest, the best thing you can do for elephants is to donate to reputable organizations without visiting them. I mean, think about it… It’s not natural for elephants to have the stimulation of people around them each day. Interacting with elephants is for our benefit, not theirs.

But we get it… seeing these beautiful creatures up close is a dream. It was for us, too. So if seeing elephants is a must for you, keep reading. We’re going over the best places to see these gentle giants in Thailand.

Best places to see elephants in Thailand

From our knowledge, Chiang Mai and the surrounding area probably has the best selection of actual sanctuaries in the country.

The positive thing about visiting a reputable elephant sanctuary is that the money you spend there will (mostly) go back to taking care of the elephants.

• I will say, however, that this is not an intimate experience. This is by far the most popular and well-known elephant sanctuary in Thailand, so it’s also one of the more busy ones.
• Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary : This is a lesser-known place we have heard from others that is ethically run and the elephants are returned to their natural habitat (and not fenced in). They provide a better life for the elephants and also work towards improving villages and alternate work for the mahouts.

Important Tip: The reputable places book up in advance – so plan ahead if seeing elephants is a must for you.

Our advice for you: We encourage you to do some research ahead of time and choose a place that is (hopefully) treating elephants well. And if you end up somewhere that is not ethically run, SPEAK UP. Tell their management of what you saw. Write a review online so others can be informed and decide if they want to support it.

On a related note: Thailand faces its fair share of negative impacts from tourism, and the exploitation of elephants is probably one of the most well-known of this country’s issues. If you’re interested in learning more about how you can travel more ethically in Thailand , we have a whole article devoted to this topic.

4. Paddle down river with a Bamboo Raft

Similar to river tubing, you can cool off on a hot day by floating on a bamboo raft!

Imagine floating on a rustic bamboo raft down a river that cuts through the jungle-y Thai countryside. While you’re less than an hour away from Chiang Mai, you’ll feel a world away from the city.

We have an entire bamboo rafting day-trip guide detailing everything you need to know like how to get there, how much it costs and what not to forget to bring!

5. Go temple hopping

Chiang Mai is Thailand’s epicenter of culture, and one of the best ways to really dive in is to visit some of the city’s best temples.

There are so many temples in Chiang Mai that you won’t have to wander far to find one (or five!). Some are small and seldom visited, while others are iconic must-see places for most visitors, and each has its own unique characteristics.

Below is a list of some temples to add to your Chiang Mai itinerary. 

Best temples to visit in Chiang Mai Old City

• Wat Phra Singh : This temple in the Old City is known for its striking gold exterior, and is well worth checking out.
• Wat Chedi Luang : Almost smack dab in the center of Chiang Mai’s Old City, Wat Chedi Luang is a sight to behold. It is one of the most famous temples within the Old City walls.
• Wat Sri Suphan : The most notable characteristic about this temple is its silver exterior. Located right beside the Saturday Night Market, it’s an easy temple to visit after picking up some souvenirs.
• Wat Phan Tao : This temple is made from teak wood and being that it is right next to the much more famous Wat Chedi Luang, this wooden complex is often overlooked. It is most notably the site where young monks release lanterns during the Yi Peng festival .
• Wat Chiang Man : Established in 1296 by King Mengrai, this ornate structure is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. 

Best temples to visit around Chiang Mai

• Wat Doi Suthep : Arguably the most iconic place in Chiang Mai, if you only visit one temple, make it this one. (See below for more info)
• Wat Pha Lat : Hidden in the jungle, this is our very favorite temple in all of Chiang Mai. The best way to get here is by hiking the Pilgrim’s Trail. (See #2 for more info)
• Wat Suan Dok Temple : Situated about 1 km west of the Old City’s West Gate, this temple has a hauntingly beautiful mausoleum garden which is the resting place of many past leaders. This is also a great temple for doing a Monk Chat (explained above).
• Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham : Located outside of the city walls, this temple is situated in a forested area and is known for its underground tunnels.
• Wat Chet Yot Phra Aram Luang : Located outside of the Old City, this temple is situated near the Super Highway and is less visited than those within the city walls.
• Wat Phra That Doi Kham : Known for a Buddha that stands 17 meters tall, this temple is perched on a hilltop to the southwest of the city and is more popular with Thai visitors than foreigners.

Fun Fact: The word wat refers to a Buddhist temple or monastery in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. The most iconic example of this is Cambodia’s famed Angkor Wat , which was originally built as a Hindu temple, but was transformed to a Buddhist complex in the 12th century.

6. Visit Doi Suthep Temple (Wat Phra That)

The temple on Doi Suthep gets its own section because it is by far the most iconic temple in all of Chiang Mai.

Someone told us once that if you haven’t visited Doi Suthep, then you haven’t visited Chiang Mai. Now, we don’t fully believe that, because one place can’t simply make a city. But after finally visiting Doi Suthep, I can’t believe it took us so long!

This is one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand. Plus, you’ll also have a pretty great view of the city if the skies are clear. 

Tip: Try to go early in the morning, as it can get very, very busy.

How to get to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Take a red truck from anywhere in the city and kindly ask them to go to Doi Suthep. It should be about 60 baht per person. The ride will take about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic up the winding hill. 

Or you can take the 2-3 hour hike to the top and be sure to stop at Wat Pha Lat along the way (see #2 on this list for more info).

7. Shop for souvenirs at one of Chiang Mai’s Night Markets 

You can find night markets all over Asia, and we’re obsessed. You’ll typically find inexpensive souvenirs, local street food, and a lively atmosphere.

Chiang Mai has some incredible—albeit crowded—night markets. Depending on which days you’re visiting, you can visit a couple and compare!

• Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: Open every night of the week, vendors line the street on Chang Klan Road selling every souvenir you can imagine from t-shirts to stuffed elephants to pillow cases to jewelry.
• Saturday Night Market: Starting from the Old Pagoda by the South Gate and stretching down the Wua Lai Road, this is another souvenir market.
• Sunday Night Market: Tha Phae Gate is where this market starts and the vendors and crowds pack down Rachadamnoen Road into the old city. There are plenty of food stalls and vendors selling anything and everything.

Insider Tip: You can find smaller (less crowded) night markets near Maya Mall and near Chiang Mai University (Malin Market).

8. Take a Thai Cooking Class

If you’ve been following our blog for a while, you know that we LOVE to eat . Anything and everything. No exaggeration.

And you probably also know that we are constantly raving about taking cooking classes in other countries . We’re up to 12 now. We wholeheartedly believe that there are few ways to learn more about a culture than through its cuisine. 

And when it comes to Thai food , there is no better place to learn how to make your favorite dishes than Chiang Mai. The tricky part is choosing a cooking school, as the options are plentiful.

In our research, we found 3 cooking schools that are clear winners:

• Thai Farm Cooking School
• Secret Thai Cooking School
• Sammy’s Organic Thai Cooking School

Psst! When you’re booking be sure to check out Cookly website where they compare cooking schools and sometimes have cheaper prices.

They all have a 3 things in common:

• They bring you to a local market instead of the one ridden with tourists in the Old City.
• Each person is able to make 5 dishes that they have selected.
• All 3 of these cooking schools take place on an organic farm from which you can gather your own produce and herbs.

Secret Thai Cooking Class

We chose Secret Thai Cooking School and were incredibly impressed . 

Our teacher, May, gave everyone in our class of 11 individualized attention as she taught us how to make dishes from a menu we created—not the case at many cooking schools! (Ben and I love to try everything, so we each choose different dishes so we’d be able to try 10 separate meals. Best idea ever!)

We were able to pick our own vegetables in the onsite garden, and had our own gas stove and cooking station in our host’s home. Additionally, we learned how to make our own coconut milk the traditional way and received a cookbook that was made especially for us with our own photos inside.

Tip: If you are visiting in November during the Loi Krathong festival , you might be lucky enough to make your very own krathong in your cooking class, which you can float down the river alongside locals in the evening. Book ahead because classes during this season fill up quickly.

9. Try Khao Soi in Chiang Mai

Unlike Pad Thai and Green Curry, this Thai dish is not very well-known in the Western world, but it should be!

With a Burmese influence, Khao Soi is most commonly found in the north of Thailand ; and Chiang Mai is a perfect place to try your first bite.

I’d like to think that Khao Soi would be the love child if chicken noodle soup and yellow curry ever got together. A combination of egg noodles, coconut curry broth, chicken, shallots, lime and chilies make each bite of this dish a party in your mouth! It is typically topped with crunchy fried egg noodles and served pickled vegetables on the side for a flavor and texture explosion.

Where to get the best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai

The best place to eat Khao Soi is in unassuming mom-and-pop shops . We sampled several bowls, and each has their own unique flavors. 

Traditionally, Khao Soi is eaten in the morning and afternoon, so many Khao Soi street stands will close before dinner time. You’ll still be able to find it on the menus of many restaurants. 

If you’re looking for recommendations, here are some restaurants that serve up some of the best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai:

• Khao Soi Mae Sai : this is a hot spot among locals and is not far from the Nimman neighborhood. This is our favorite spot for Khao Soi!
• While we thought it was good, we didn’t think it lived up to the hype as we’ve had better Khao Soi elsewhere (but try it out, it might be your favorite!). Their Khao Soi has a broth that is a bit thicker and spicier than most, but I was a little disappointed that it comes with pieces of chicken instead of a whole leg, and the crunchy noodles on top weren’t as fresh as some other places.
• Khao Soi Nimman : a decent choice in the Nimman Road area with many different choices. Broth is on the sweet side and prices are a bit higher than most Khao Soi.
• Khao Soi Arak : located in the Old City and known for serving a killer bowl of Kaho Soi. Plus the couple who owns this tiny restaurant is lovely. At just 30 baht, you can’t go wrong!

Looking for vegetarian Khao Soi? Try it at Aum or Pun Pun . These are two good choices to try vegetarian versions of Khao Soi, allowing you to give this famous dish a try even if you don’t eat meat. 

10. Explore Doi Inthanon National Park

Just under 2 hours away from the city, Doi Inthanon National Park is a great place for getting some fresh mountain air, going hiking, and seeing some of the most iconic pagodas in the north of Thailand.

Oh, and Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in all of Thailand! (Save that knowledge bomb for your next trivia night!)

Things to do in Doi Inthanon National Park

• Hike the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: The trail itself is not very difficult or steep, but it offers sweeping views of the mountains and landscapes below. It is required that you hire a guide on this trail, which provides a job for a local. The guides are at the trailhead and you can simply show up. It costs 200 baht for a group (maximum 10 people), and should take roughly 2 hours.
• Visit the twin pagodas: Without a doubt the most iconic sight in this national park, the two pagodas — also known as the Queen and King Pagodas — are a must-see when you’re visiting the national park. They house some historic relics and are great spots for photo opportunities.
• Go waterfall hopping: The national park is home to a handful of waterfalls, and if you have the time, see as many as possible. But if you’re on a tight schedule, we think Mae Ya Waterfall (just south of the park) is the most impressive, and makes a great stop on your way back to Chiang Mai. (pictured below)
• Eat a local meal: If you feel your tummy rumbling and you haven’t packed enough snacks, there is a small restaurant right by the Kew Mae Pan trailhead that serves up cheap, local and tasty dishes! We got some crispy fried chicken, sticky rice, and noodle soup, all for 150 baht (less than $5 USD).

Good to know: It costs 300 baht for foreigners to enter Doi Inthanon National Park.

How to get to Doi Inthanon National Park

From Chiang Mai, you can hire a driver for the day (either a red truck or a car). This will be the most comfortable option, but also the most expensive. 

If you are an experienced motorbike driver, you can drive yourself (this is what we did). But be prepared for a rather long drive.

11. Take an adventurous day trip to Lampang’s “Floating Pagodas” (Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat)

If you are up for a full day of adventuring off the beaten path , we have just the idea for you…

The town of Lampang is not on most Western tourists’ radar , but it is home to one of the most magical sites in northern Thailand. 

The “floating” white pagodas perched in the cliffs outside of Lampang is a hidden gem that most visitors will never see. And if you make the journey there, it will likely be a highlight of your time in Thailand. 

Known as Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat, these pagodas are not only undeniably beautiful, but they still very much feel like a hidden gem. 

Now we have some good news and some bad news. The bad news is it can be quite a long and somewhat tricky journey to get to these pagodas. But the good news is we have you totally covered with an in-depth guide to Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat that goes over exactly how to get there and how to make it an epic road trip! 

12. Relax at Huay Kaew Waterfall and swimming hole

Not far from the Nimman neighborhood, Huay Kaew Waterfall is hidden in the jungle, and few travelers know it exists. A visit to these little-known waterfalls is a good way to escape the city and find some solitude. When we went, we only crossed paths with a handful of people.

Unlike Sticky Waterfalls (see #1 on the list), you can’t climb on the actual falls, but if you stick to the side path you’ll make it to a swimming hole, complete with a rope swing! Keep going up the path and you’ll find more and more small pools to hang out in.

On a hot day, this is a great place to bring a picnic and relax. Check out our hike to Huay Kaew Waterfall video on YouTube. 

Responsible Travel Tip: If you bring food, please, PLEASE carry out your trash and bring a bag to collect any rubbish you find along the way.

How to get to Huay Kaew Waterfalls

It is really simple to get to the Huay Kaew Waterfalls. From the old city you can take a red truck to the Chiang Mai Zoo (30 baht per person). Starting from the entrance of the Chiang Mai Zoo, walk west toward the mountain. 

You can take the mountain road uphill until you see the official entrance, or walk our favorite way through a local street to the left just as the road begins to go uphill. Stroll through this tiny neighborhood with a stream passing through the middle and walk to the end of the street. There will be a small foot path that leads uphill slightly and will take you to the waterfall. 

Related: Some of the best waterfalls in Thailand are north of Chiang Mai in a town called Pai. Check out our detailed guide to Pai, Thailand for more information.

13. Go hiking around Chiang Mai

If you love the outdoors, but you don’t want to hike solo, we’ve got a perfect solution for you! 

There is a hiking club in Chiang Mai that meets every Saturday (as well as some weekdays) to go hiking in the jungle surrounding the city. Some days the hikes are short and for beginners, while other times they are full-day expeditions and lead to hill tribe villages in the mountains. 

Check out the hiking club’s Facebook page, Doi Suthep Walkers , for details and upcoming hikes. These weekly meet-ups are typically on Saturday mornings at 7:30 a.m. sharp. 

Note: This group is great, but the crowd tends to get large, especially for the shorter hikes. The hikes we have been on have had about 50 people going up the mountain. The people who join are really fun and are typically foreigners living in Chiang Mai long-term, with a few travelers sprinkled in.

If you are excited to meet new people and get outside the city, this is a fun (FREE) option for you, but do know that the group is not small.

Alternative: Guided hiking

If you’re visiting Chiang Mai and aren’t able to coincide with the hiking group, this highly-rated guided hike on Airbnb Experiences is a great way to be able to explore the countryside with a local.

You’ll trek through the jungle trails (which can be difficult to follow if you don’t know where you’re going), and you’ll have lunch in a beautiful Hmong village called Khun Chang Khian. We visited this village with the hiking group, and it is an amazing place to see, and feels very much like a hidden gem.

14. Hang out at this secret (Mok Fa Waterfall)

If you love waterfalls, we’ve already got a few on this list for you to check out. But if you’re looking for an adventure to a secret waterfall, we gotchu covered. 

Mok Fa Waterfall is a bit outside of the city, and feels like a hidden oasis. This tall and majestic waterfall is beautiful and lacks the crowds of some of the other more accessible or popular falls in the area. 

We arrived around 9 a.m. and were the only ones there for a while. There’s a sandy area and a nice pool for swimming right by the falls, a lush jungle and cave, as well as some smaller pools further out. Bring some snacks and find a sunny patch to have a little picnic.

How to get to Mok Fa Waterfall

Getting to Mok Fa is an adventure in itself because it’s not really near anything else. If you’re confident driving a motorbike, that’s the cheapest way to get here.

Otherwise, you can hire a songthaew or a Grab for the roughly 1-hour drive. Just put the location into Google Maps , and you shouldn’t have any trouble getting there. Once you’ve parked, the waterfall is just a short walk away.

Cost: 200 baht entrance fee for foreign adults to enter, plus 20 baht to park a motorbike.

15. Enjoy a drink with a view at a rooftop bar

Whenever we’re in search of a good view, we head to a rooftop bar!

Unlike some of the popular rooftop bars in Bangkok , which are seriously overpriced (in our opinion), you can make a toast above Chiang Mai at a reasonable price. That said, don’t expect to be 40 stories up like you would in Bangkok.

Best rooftop bars in Chiang Mai

• Hotel YaYee : Hand-crafted cocktails and panoramic views… what more could you want?!
• Rise Rooftop Bar at Akyra Manor : Lounge beside their rooftop pool with a fancy cocktail in hand. They have 2-for-1 drinks for their happy hour special from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Enjoy the views as the sun sets behind Doi Suthep.
• Xanadu Rooftop and Restaurant : This classy rooftop is on the 17th floor in the Furama Hotel. You can get great views of Nimman and Doi Suthep as you order a meal and drinks.
• Oasis Rooftop Garden Bar : Tucked away in the northeast corner of the Old City, Oasis presents a relaxed vibe and a nice place to meet up with friends.

16. Get a Thai massage

Traveling to Thailand without indulging in a Thai massage (or seven!) would be crazy. 

Unless you’re like my mom, who doesn’t like massages in the slightest, I would highly recommend getting a massage in Chiang Mai. And when you can find hour-long massages for $6 USD, why not get a few?!

You won’t have to wander far before you hear “massage, massage” being called after you. (You can’t blame them for trying to advertise for free!) Our advice would be not to go for the first place you see. There are plenty of amazing massage places around Chiang Mai, but there are just as many (if not more!) sub-par establishments.

Where to get the best Thai massage in Chiang Mai

We’ve read lots of reviews on Google, talked to many friends about their favorite places, and done some “research” ourselves. Here are just a handful of good options to start with:

• Ziam Spa & Massage
• Sense Massage
• Green Bamboo Massage
• Orn Healing Hands
• Nimman House Massage
• The Artist Spa

While most of the massage places listed above are very budget-friendly, there are certainly higher-end massage parlors where the prices (and facilities) will be closer to what you’d pay in Western countries. You’ll have to do a little comparison to decide what’s best for your budget. 

Good to know: At some of the cheaper places, you may be in a communal room with other guests.

What do you wear to a massage in Thailand? 

In most massage parlors in Chiang Mai, you will be given clothes to change into. They are typically baggy cotton one-size-fits-all pants and a shirt. 

For some treatments—like an oil massage, for instance—you will be given disposable underwear and will be nude.

Good to know: Traditional Thai massages involve a lot of cracking and stretching, and can leave some people sore. If you don’t think you’ll like this “hands on” massage, try a “Neck, Back and Shoulder Massage” or a foot massage instead. They are quite a bit tamer.

Pssst! Check out this detailed article describing where to find the best massages in Chiang Mai . The author tried 30 different massage places in the city and ranked her favorites. 

Unique experience: Get massaged by a prison inmate

If you’re picturing laying in an 8-by-8 concrete cell with bars, getting rubbed down by a surly woman clad in orange, you’re sorely mistaken. My masseuse was sweet and giggly, and looked more like a pigtailed schoolgirl than a convict.

So, here’s the question everyone is wondering… What are the women in prison for? Could you potentially be massaged by a serial killer? 

No, silly! Most of the women are serving short sentences for minor crimes. The Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institution has created a program to give its inmates the opportunity to learn marketable skills. The women are also allowed to save their wages and tips for their release date.

There are three options for massages:

• 1-hour foot massage
• 1-hour Thai massage
• 2-hour Thai massage

We chose a 1-hour Thai massage and were led into a big, dimly-lit room with nearly 20 beds on which people were getting cracked, rubbed and stretched.  The air was filled with the strong scent of menthol and eucalyptus… Mmmm, Tiger Balm.

The only thing that distinguished this establishment from the hundreds of other massage joints in the area were the women wearing police uniforms that paced the room every once in a while with clipboards in hand.

On TripAdvisor , many people rave that they received “ the BEST massage in Thailand ”, and Ben said his was fantastic. Mine, on the other hand, was mediocre. I’ve had better, and probably have had worse… but still, I felt good contributing to this organization that enables women to create a better life for themselves.

Responsible travel note: If you decide to get a massage, remember that this isn’t a tourist attraction to be gawked at. These women are trying to make a better life for themselves, and by visiting you are helping contribute to their self-improvement, but it’s not a place to leer rudely or take pictures of your masseuse.

Our advice is to arrive early. We got there just after 10 in the morning, and weren’t able to get on the schedule until 2:45 p.m. Arrive much later than we did, and you’ll be outta luck!

Also on the premises is a souvenir shop and a reasonably priced restaurant serving Thai and Western dishes as well as a coffee and fruit shakes.

Hours: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; weekends from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

17. Sample as many Northern Thai dishes as possible

While Khao Soi is our favorite northern Thai dish (see #8 above!), it’s far from the only meal you should try in Chiang Mai.

Many Thai restaurants in Western countries have a focus on Thai dishes from the south of the country, so there are many dishes you’ve likely never heard of. And they can be hard to find in other regions of Thailand (or the rest of the world), so be sure to eat up while you’re in the north of the country!

Below you’ll find a list of more Northern Thai dishes to try during your time in Chiang Mai:

• Sai Oua (northern Thai sausage): This pork sausage has a unique taste that’s all its own. The meat is seasoned with fresh Thai herbs and spices like turmeric, kaffir lime leaves, garlic, lemongrass, coriander, shallots, galangal, and chillies. It is an explosion of flavors!
• Laab (spicy salad): This spicy minced meat “salad” is usually served with parboiled veggies and cabbage or lettuce leaves. You can eat it like a lettuce wrap, or as a “dip” for the vegetable sticks. 
• Khao Niaw (aka sticky rice): Sticky rice is a much more common side dish in northern Thailand than in other regions.
• Nám prík nùm (green chili dip): This is a green chili dip made from a mashed combination of long green chilies, shallots and garlic. This spicy paste is often served with parboiled veggies like carrots and green beans, cucumber slices, cabbage, and deep-fried pork cracklings.

18. Chat with a Monk

You will spot the iconic saffron robes everywhere you venture in Thailand, but in Chiang Mai you can have the rare opportunity to go beyond gawking and get personal with a monk .There are 5 temples with “Monk Chat” programs in the city, but we chose to visit Wat Suan Dok Temple due to its proximity to town.

We spent an hour asking the monks questions about daily life and anything else that popped into our minds. They were incredibly open and willing to talk.

I only wished we had thought more about what we would ask them ahead of time because after we left I started coming up with many more questions on some of the hot topics in today’s society… What is the Buddhist stance on gay marriage? Guns? Refugees? ISIS? If you have the chance to ask any of these questions, I’d love to know the answers!

How to do a Monk Chat: It’s super easy. At Wat Suan Dok , just show up between 5-7 p.m. on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday. You will sign in with your name and nationality and be assigned to a monk. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing that covers your shoulders and everything above your knees.

19. Celebrate Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Chiang Mai during the month of November , you can observe the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals, which take place around the same time. The date changes each year due to the lunar calendar, so do you research.

Also, book your accommodation well in advance. We were without a bed for one night because it seemed like the entire city had “no vacancy” signs. (Our amazing hostel saved the day and set up a mat on their porch – they called it a “jungle bungalow” – so we didn’t have to sleep on the streets.)

More Info: Here’s a detailed article on activities during Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festival that will help you make the most of this celebration. 

20. Take a day trip to Chiang Rai to visit the temples

Chiang Rai is located in the far northeast and is well worth a visit during your trip to Thailand.

Most famous for Wat Rong Khun – aka “the White Temple” – there is lots more to Chiang Rai than seeing this single landmark. Though I will say it is truly breathtaking and worth the hype.

A roughly 3 hours apart, getting to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai isn’t a quick affair. That said, it is totally possible to visit as an already-planned-for-you day trip.

This tour earns rave reviews and makes a couple of stops along the way, making it possible to see Chiang Rai and return back to your hotel in Chiang Mai in the evening.

…or take an extended trip to Chiang Rai

Personally, we’d recommend spending at least one night in Chiang Rai if you have the time, as getting there from Chiang Mai is no quick trip. Expect the drive to take 3 hours each way , meaning you’ll be in transport for 6 hours if you attempt this as a day trip. 

If it were us, we’d skip the day tour and do it on our own to have more time to explore and less time in a car.

• Getting there: Buses are frequent and cheap starting around 250 baht ($7) one way; book a bus through 12Go to make sure you get the time you want
• Where to stay: This glamping resort looks incredible! We know someone who stayed here and absolutely loved it!
• Dear Friends Bistro : breakfast and cafe fare
• Kunda Vegan Burger Cafe : amazing vegan food
• Barrab : Northern Thai eats
• Khao Soi Restaurant : While there are other things on the menu here, definitely stick to their specialty – Khao Soi

21. Meditate with monks

Some people come to Thailand for the adventure while others come to get in touch with their spiritual side. If you’re interested in the latter (or want a healthy mix of both!) you might want to consider fitting in some time to slow down and quiet your mind.

Whether you’re totally new to meditation or have been practicing for years, there are meditation centers in Chiang Mai (and all around Thailand, for that matter) for all levels.

Here are some meditation centers in Chiang Mai:

• Wat Ram Poeng
• Wat Suan Dok
• Body and mind healing

Personal Note: While we haven’t done any of these meditations in Chiang Mai, we stayed at a monastery in northern Thailand (between Kai and Mae Hong Son) where we meditated for 3 days (pictured above). It was an incredible experience, and we’ve written all about it .

If you have extra time in your Thailand itinerary, we’d highly recommend making it here. But if time is tight, one of the meditation centers in Chiang Mai here (or listed above) will be a good alternative. 

22. Go on a food tour

If you’re a serious foodie, going on a food tour in Chiang Mai will be a perfect way to sample the best dishes the city has to offer at spots chosen by locals. 

We’ve eaten our way around Chiang Mai quite a bit over our many visits (and time spent living there). But on our most recent trip to Chiang Mai, we decided to book a food tour for ourselves and two of our friends who have called the city home for 6+ years. 

Even though we’ve spent a lot of time in Thailand and our friends have been there even longer, we all tried dishes on this tour that we had never heard of before, which was kind of surprising. Also, we all learned even more about Thai cuisine and culture from our local guide.

We loved squeezing into the tiny mom-and-pop shops that we never would have found on our own and exploring a local market where there were hardly any other tourists in sight. We only wish we had done this experience sooner!

There are lots of food tours to choose from in Chiang Mai. Here are our top recommendations:

With Locals: This is the tour we personally did. We chose it mainly because they can cater to dietary needs. Our friends are vegetarian, and they were able to adjust the stops accordingly. It is also one of the most budget-friendly tours, and we had a great experience.

Evening Street Food Tour : This 2.5-hour tour takes place after the sun has set and brings you to street stands for some of the best flavors you’ll have in the city.

Northern Flavors Food Tour: This food tour through Airbnb Experiences is a crowd favorite, and includes 15 different tastings over 4 hours. Good to know: It’s not suitable for those who don’t eat meat. 

If you squeeze a food tour into your itinerary just be sure to come with a (very) empty stomach and pencil in some time afterwards to relax because the chances of a “food coma” are high!

Really love food? Taking a food tour was also one of our favorite things we did in Bangkok ! If you like foodie experiences, I don’t think it’s overkill to do one in each city, as they are very different and focus on different dishes and ingredients.

23. Eat on the street!

If you like street food, you’ll love Chiang Mai! While street food is easy to find basically anywhere in Thailand, you’ll find the most options at the night markets and around the gates of the Old City walls.

You’ll find everything from super cheap pad thai being cooked in a gigantic wok to grilled meat skewers to noodle soups. If you’re traveling with a partner, order a few different dishes so you can sample them all!

Listen up! Don’t miss the famous Cowboy Hat Lady featured on Anthony Bourdain’s show Parts Unknown. She serves up a damn good Khao Kha Mo (Thai-style stewed pork leg).

Her stall is located near the north gate of the old city at the Chang Phuek Market . The pork and rice dish can be served in a small size (40 baht) or a large size (50 baht) and it literally melts in your mouth.

Insider Tip: We don’t like fatty pieces of meat, so we order ours “mai ow nang” which means without skin and fat.

24. Have a local plan your Chiang Mai itinerary

Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of things to do in Chiang Mai? We know the feeling (and we’re not even halfway through this list yet!). Wouldn’t it be great if you could have someone plan your itinerary for you!? Well, your wish is about to come true…

ViaHero is a really cool company that connects travelers with locals in the place they’re visiting. You tell the local what kinds of things you are interested in and what you really want to do and see on your trip. And they’ll put together a customized itinerary just for you.

Insider Tip: Our advice would be to ask them to include lots of cultural experiences and food spots on your itinerary, because who better to get tips from than a local?!

Not only are you providing a valuable job for someone in the community, but you will get a complete itinerary for your trip to Chiang Mai that is totally tailored to your interests. Follow their advice and get off the beaten path for an authentic and memorable trip! 

25. Explore Chiang Mai’s local markets

Chiang Mai has a market in what seems like every corner of the city. Whether you’re looking for elephant pants and other souvenirs, hoping to pick up some fresh fruits, or you’re wanting to be surrounded by locals, there is a market for you!

Discovering local favorites is one of the best parts of travel. Get more tips on where to go and what to do from locals in Thailand when you use ViaHero to plan a personalized itinerary.

Local “Everything” Market

• Warorot Market (Kad Luang): This is where many locals shop for clothes or home goods. It’s cheaper than the tourist markets but is only open during the day.

Organic Produce Market

• Jing Jai Market : Here you’ll find cute coffee shops and stores, but the main reason to visit Jing Jai is for their organic produce market every Wednesday and Saturday morning. There are also vendors selling crafts and food, as well as live music and caricature artists!

Artsy Market

• Bor Sang (Umbrella Village) Market : A little outside of Chiang Mai, this market is famous for its handicrafts and popular decorated umbrellas. Go here for a color explosion.

Our Favorite Market

• Malin Market : This is our favorite market to get dinner and do some shopping. If you are over by Chiang Mai University, pop over to Malin Night Market. There are artists selling jewelry and clothes stalls with cheap price tags (not souvenir-type items). The food court is great too! You won’t find many foreigners here – mainly Thai university students.

Responsible Travel Tip: When shopping at Chiang Mai’s many markets, don’t forget to bring your own reusable bag and turn down plastic ones whenever possible. Check out this article for more eco-friendly travel gear !

Psst! We didn’t forget about the famous Chiang Mai Night Markets! (See #7 for more info!)

26. Eat ALL the tropical fruits!

My name is Katie, and I am fruit-a-holic. (Anyone else with me?!) If you’re nodding your head you’re in luck because Chiang Mai is heaven for tropical fruit-lovers.

Visit the local markets and you’ll see all sorts of colorful fruits you’ve likely never seen before. I made it my mission to search for unfamiliar fruits and buy them. Fresh produce is really cheap in Thailand (from the local markets), so there’s really no risk!

It would be nearly impossible to list all the fruits you’ll find in Chiang Mai, but here are some of my favorites that you should definitely try:

• Mangosteen (my absolute favorite!)
• Plum Mangos
• Custard Apple
• Dragonfruit
• Small Bananas

Oh, and while they’re probably not unfamiliar, if you like papaya, pineapple and mangos, be sure to try a few while in Thailand, as they’re likely more fresh and delicious than the imported ones we get in Western countries.

Feeling adventurous? Try durian. Some people love it (it has a cult following), and others — myself included — hate it. I consider myself someone who likes pretty much all foods (except ketchup, and now durian). I can’t even stand the smell. But give it a taste and let me know what you think!

Good to know: You can also find a lot of these fruits in Hawaii , which was a nice surprise on a recent trip! I felt like I could indulge in some of my favorite tropical fruits without the price tag of a flight to Asia! Though the same fruits in Hawaii are much more expensive than they are in Thailand.

27. Get soaked at Songkran celebrations

Songkran, or Thai New Year, is celebrated in April. (The exact date changes, as it follows the lunar calendar.)

If you’re planning to visit Chiang Mai for Songkran, get ready for a festival you’ll never forget! 

Songkran lasts for 3 days, and the whole city plays along. Everyone carries water guns and buckets, and there is no way you can walk down a street without getting wet.

As long as you’ve got your phone protected , you’re in for an incredible time. 

Families will drive down the street with the bed of their pickup truck lined with plastic and filled with water, creating a makeshift “pool”. Kids or teenagers sitting in the back will find every opportunity to douse passersby with buckets of water.

Music plays on every block and spontaneous dance parties will break out on the streets, and everyone — tourists and locals — come together with smiles on their faces. We’ve never really witnessed a celebration like it.

Good to know: One thing to look out for is that some of the water being thrown as you walk through the streets is from the moat that surrounds the Old City. Close your mouth and be sure not to swallow it. Also, be sure to shower once you get back to your hotel, as the water in the moat can be filled with bacteria. I hope that little health tip doesn’t scare you away, because it is seriously such a fun celebration!

28. Splash around at the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon

We’ve visited the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon twice before — once in 2015 and again in 2019 — and boy oh boy has it changed! What used to be a sort of hidden secret is now super built up, and it’s certainly not off-the-beaten-path anymore.

Back in the day (aka 2015 and before), this old quarry was a haven for backpackers looking for an adventurous and cheap way to spend the day. There was one small cafe onsite and it cost 50 baht ($1.60 USD) to enter, and this fee included a complimentary drink.

From there, you were on your own. Locals hung out and dove off cliffs — some as tall as 15 meters (50 feet). There were a couple of rickety bamboo rafts to float on, and that was pretty much it.

Today, things have changed quite a bit. For one, the entrance fee is now 650 baht ( $21 USD) — that’s a huge price increase! But an even bigger difference is how built up it is. What was once a simple, no-frills quarry is now basically a waterpark with tons of inflatables.

It is now known as the Grand Canyon Water Park. 

The changes haven’t been all bad. Honestly, the Grand Canyon was pretty dangerous before it was built up (there were a few cliff jumping deaths). Now, there are lifeguards and cliff jumping is only allowed in designated areas.

The quarry is filled with inflatables (think a Ninja Warrior type obstacle course!), and if you want to channel your inner child for a day and get out of the heat , you’ll have a great time. We visited the Grand Canyon on my birthday and had a really fun time just acting like kids.

But I will say, it is a lot more TIRING than it looks! (Do I sound like a grandma?!) After about 2 hours, we were ready to go back to town. Also, we think it would have been more fun with a group of friends. So factor that in to determine if the cost will be worthwhile for you.

How to visit the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon

Just a 30-minute drive from town, a trip to Grand Canyon Water Park will allow you to escape the city and soak up some rays. 

Get there by motorbike (an easy drive) or by tuk tuk/songathew (red pickup truck). Split the fare with other travelers to make it more affordable. You can also order a Grab (rideshare) to bring you there.

Entrance fee: 650 baht for adults (~$22 USD)

Don’t want to pay a huge entrance fee? Not into the inflatables?

Listen up because there is an alternative…

Instead of navigating to the “main” Grand Canyon entrance, you will go to Grand Canyon Gamnanboon. There will probably be a parking attendant trying to get you to come here instead of the bigger one, so just park as soon as you see them flagging you down.

The entrance fee here is just 100 baht ($3.20 USD), and you can hang out on the floating dock, use kayaks or jump off the designated platforms. There is also a small onsite restaurant selling food and drinks.

29. Have a pool day

If you’re craving a day relaxing in the sun, head to one of the many pools in Chiang Mai. Oh, and don’t forget your sunscreen!

If you’re really smart, you can plan ahead and book a hotel with a nice pool. But if your accommodation is pool-free, here are a few options that are open to the public:

• RISE Rooftop at the Akyra Hotel: This combination rooftop bar and pool is open to the public from 6 – 11:30 p.m. nightly. All you need to do is buy a drink to use the facilities. 
• Green Hill Apartments : Lay out by these two massive pools all day for only 80 baht per person. If you get hungry, they also have a restaurant on-site.
• Center of the Universe : Located just north of the Nimman area, this salt water pool (less chemicals, yay!) is 200 baht for an all day pass.
• Ozone Roof Bar at the Cross Hotel: Private cabanas and poolside sunbeds make this the perfect place to catch some rays. Plus the rooftop views can’t be beat!
• Looper : Boasting a lap pool, an onsen, a cold plunge, and a Thai style herbal “sauna”, this could be a good place to come for a little self care time. There’s also an onsite cafe that serves some really good drinks. You can pay a basic entrance fee for 200 baht or 250 baht which includes a drink. 

30. Embrace the cafe culture

Chiang Mai is home to thousands of digital nomads , which means there are coffee shops on every corner. 

And we’re not just talking about your run-of-the-mill Starbucks. In Chiang Mai, you’ll find super interesting and quirky cafes all around the city, like ones with ball pits and cotton candy lattes! 

Here are a few to put on your list if you love coffee shops:

• We like the Ristr8o Lab location because it’s in a more peaceful setting than the one right on Nimman Road.
• Artisan Cafe : South of the Old City, this is one of the prettiest cafes in Chiang Mai. Hang out in the a/c to get some work done or just come in for a drink to marvel at the decor.  
• Chaseki Teahouse : With chic decor and decadent drinks, how can you go wrong?!
• Akha Ama Coffee : With a couple of locations in town (one in the Old City), Akha Ama is known for serving up some of the best coffee in town.
• My Secret Cafe in Town : This coffee shop doubles as a vegan cafe and is a nice place to rest your legs while exploring the Old City.
• Free Bird Cafe : This entirely vegan cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating. And the best part: they donate profits to support Northern Thai and Burmese hill tribes. This is a laptop-free cafe, so don’t expect to get any work done here!
• The Larder : Deliciously good coffee and an epic brunch menu in the heart of Nimman. 
• Cool Cat Cafe : The themed cafes that are popular in Tokyo have made their way to Chiang Mai! Cuddle friendly felines while sipping a specialty drink.

31. Catch sunrise at the Huay Tung Tao Reservoir

Huay Tung Tao Lake is a place many foreign tourists never visit. In fact, we didn’t hear about it until our third time in Chiang Mai. This lake is a popular place for locals and expats to go for morning runs and hiking in the surrounding trails.

If you’re feeling up to it, we’d recommend hiking while you’re at the lake. The hike to Taab Mook Waterfall is quite easy and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful sight!

Have lunch at a floating restaurant

At lunchtime, people come to eat in one of the many floating restaurants around the lake. While the food isn’t anything spectacular and it’s a bit pricier than you’d pay in the city, it’s a unique dining experience .

The restaurants seem to be more or less the same, and they charge a per person fee to eat in the bungalows over the water. The restaurant we ate at charged 20 baht per person for the lakeside tables, while the ones a few meters back on land were free. Also, they only take cash.

How to get to the Huay Tung Tao Reservoir

Traveling by motorbike would be your best option to get to the Huay Tung Tao Reservoir . From the Old City, travel west on Huay Kaew Road and turn right on Highway 127. Travel north for about 4 km and then turn left when you see signs for the lake. If you come to Highway 107, you have gone too far. 

You could also order a Grab car (Asia’s version of Uber), but as we experienced it was easy to get there but very difficult to find a driver to take us back to the city. 

Another way to get there would be to talk to a songthaew (red truck) driver and negotiate a price. You would probably play about 100 baht per person and you would need at least 4-6 people. 

Cost: There is a 50 baht entrance fee for foreigners. If you enter before 7 a.m., it is free.

32. Practice yoga

If you’re stiff from a long plane ride, Chiang Mai is the perfect place to get your downward dog on! With plenty of yoga studios throughout the city, you’ll have no trouble finding a class. 

Free yoga in Chiang Mai

If you’re on a budget, you might want to try one of the free yoga classes offered daily in Chiang Mai.

• Nong Buak Hard Park: Free classes daily from 9 – 10:15 a.m. If you don’t have your own mat, you can rent a straw mat for 15 baht. Join the Yoga in the Park – Chiang Mai Facebook group for more info.
• One Nimman: Every Tuesday (Hatha) and Thursday (Hatha Vinyasa), there are free yoga classes at One Nimman from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. They also offer free Swing Dance and Salsa lessons throughout the week. This article has more information . (It is in Thai, but you can have Google translate it.)

Yoga studios in Chiang Mai

If you’d prefer to practice your inversions within the walls of a studio, there are plenty to choose from. Most classes are quite affordable, usually starting at 200 baht. If you purchase multiple sessions up front, the price per class will be cheaper.

• Ananda Yoga : There are two locations within Chiang Mai (Jing Jai Market and Nimman). We had a membership at the Nimman studio and really loved the classes. We always felt challenged and got a good workout.
• Freedom Yoga : One of the most popular studios in Chiang Mai, this studio is located in the southwest corner of Old City.
• Om Ganesha Yoga : A studio in Nimman offering multiple classes daily for different skill levels. They offer Vinyasa, power, Ashtanga and Hatha yoga styles.  

33. Eat vegan for a day

If you don’t eat meat, you will be in heaven, as there are endless vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Chiang Mai . 

I should mention that vegetarianism is not typical in traditional Thai culture, and in rural parts of the country it can be very difficult to find meatless dishes. However, with the influx of foreigners in Chiang Mai as well as a change in the times, there are vegetarian and vegan places popping up everywhere.

Here are just a few of our veg favorites:

• There is also an attached zero-waste store where they sell items that are good for the environment , like bamboo straws, menstrual cups and reusable bags. Plus, there’s a section of second hand clothing and accessories where you can pick up (old) new clothes or donate any items that are weighing down your backpack!
• Pun Pun Restaurant : The produce at this restaurant is organic and is sourced from their own farm (renowned worldwide for their sustainability methods), so you can feel good about what you’re eating. 
• Anchan : One of our very favorite restaurants in the Nimman neighborhood, this small restaurant serves veg versions of Thai dishes as well as yummy smoothies. Their portions are huge and their curries are rich and delicious.
• Goodsouls Kitchen : With two locations, this is one of the more well-known vegan restaurants in Chiang Mai.
• Imjai Vegan (vegan stand in the Maya Food Court): The cheapest option on this list, this is a small stand in the Maya Food Court (located underground). The family who owns this is so sweet, and all the Thai dishes served here are vegan and cooked with coconut oil. For just 40 baht, you can get 3 different items (you choose from a buffet of options) as well as rice.
• Aum Vegetarian Restaurant : Located just south of the Old City walls, this is a cozy spot to enjoy vegetarian versions of traditional Thai dishes. We’ve heard good things about their veg khao soi!

34. Get lost inside the Old City walls

A lot of Chiang Mai’s charm comes from the fact that it remains a walled city with a moat surrounding the walls. Chiang Mai’s Old City is where most first-time visitors to this city will want to base themselves, and for good reason. You’ll find temples on just about every block, and there is an abundance of cute restaurants and massage parlors.

Wander through the narrow alleyways, stumble upon street art, and take a break with a smoothie or coconut ice cream from a street vendor. 

One of our favorite areas of the Old City to wander is the northeast corner. Start at Blue Diamond restaurant (a good choice for a meal!), and walk around the narrow streets nearby. There’s a small local market at the very edge of the city wall, and lots of tree-shaded streets with murals to get lost in. 

35. Explore this secret Art Village 

Unknown to most tourists, there is a cute “art village” that’s not far from the airport. With small cafes, tree-shaded paths, art studios and shops selling handcrafted items, this is a sweet spot to spend part of a relaxed afternoon. 

If you want to get artsy, there is even a pottery studio where you can book single-day classes or multi-day courses and get your hands dirty!

How to get there: We haven’t really been able to find the name for this village (comment below if you know the name!), but if you plug this address into Google Maps or direct your Grab driver here, you’ll find the parking lot and will be able to wander around from here.

Hungry? There are a handful of restaurants in the area serving local dishes, but if by chance you’re craving pizza, Adirak Pizza is just down the street and serves us the best pizza we’ve had in all of Asia. This stuff is the real deal and is worth the splurge. Oh, and they have wine too! Can I get a hell yeah ?!

36. Hang out in the a/c in one of Chiang Mai’s Luxurious Malls

Whether you’re visiting during rainy season or you want to escape the midday heat, popping into one of Chiang Mai’s malls can be a surprisingly fun way to spend part of the day. While we aren’t exactly “mall people”, we’re always pretty impressed by the shopping centers in Thailand.

There are several malls in Chiang Mai (Central Festival, Central Plaza, Promenada Resort Mall, to name a few), however, we are most familiar with Maya Mall.

Even if you don’t feel like trying on clothes, there’s plenty to do in Maya Mall:

• Have a drink at the rooftop bars: Take the elevator to the 6th floor, where you’ll step out onto the rooftop. Whether you just want to see the view or you want to enjoy a beer with the sunset, it’s worth a stop before you leave the mall.
• Watch a movie in style: The movie theater on the 5th floor of Maya shows the latest movies, and most are in English. On Wednesdays, movies are just 100 baht. If you want an extra special experience, go for the VIP theater where you can enjoy super comfy chairs, complimentary popcorn and a soda for just a bit more money.
• Explore the cutesy shops: Moshi Moshi and Daiso are Japanese shops that sell inexpensive items that you don’t really need, but you’ll definitely want.
• Visit the food court: The floor below ground level has a food court filled with local options that are tasty and affordable.
• Get your WiFi on: If you need to use the Internet for a bit, pop into CAMP, which is a co-working space on the 5th floor of Maya Mall. Purchase a beverage or snack and get 2 hours of complimentary WiFi, or buy an Internet card at the AIS store on the 3rd floor. It is 150 baht and can be used to access the Internet in CAMP and other places around the city for one month.
• Entertain your inner child: On the 5th floor you’ll find an arcade with air hockey, arcade dance games and more. And nearby, you’ll find virtual reality pods that cost 100 baht for a simulation of your choice.
• Cross the street and make your way to Nimman One: This upscale covered shopping center has European-inspired architecture and a food court with local dishes.

37. Try a coworking space

It’s no secret that Chiang Mai is one of the most popular digital nomad hubs in the world . A combination of high speed Internet, low cost of living, long-term rentals, and an active DN community are just some of the reasons that make Chiang Mai such an appealing city for remote workers to settle down for a while. 

We’re no exception. In fact, we’ve called Chiang Mai “home” two different times for a collective year. 

If you’re at all interested in the digital nomad lifestyle , give it a try by popping into one of the city’s many co-working spaces. There are tons all throughout the city. Simply type “coworking space” into Google Maps and you’ll see what we mean! 

Coworking spaces to try in Chiang Mai

• Punspace : This is kind of the OG in co-working spaces in Chiang Mai. With two locations inside the Old City, Punspace is well-known in the DN community for their networking events and prime working conditions. That said, they are one of the more expensive co-working places in the city.
• CAMP at Maya Mall : Located on the 5th floor of Maya Mall, this is a cool spot to check out if you’re just curious about co-working. It is free to work from here, though you are supposed to buy a drink in order to access the Internet. This space is often full of Thai university students and can get very crowded at times. 
• Heartwork : Located southeast of the Old City, this space is beautiful and quiet.

Psst! Are you a DN thinking about living in Chiang Mai? We’ve put together a guide to living in Chiang Mai as a digital nomad just for you!

38. Watch a Muay Thai fight

Translating to “Thai boxing”, Muay Thai is to Thailand what baseball is to the United States. This beloved sport is practiced all around the country , and seeing a match in person is on many travelers’ Thailand bucket list.

Just inside the Old City’s east gate (Thaphae), is a Muay Thai area where you can watch a handful of fights up close. This facility is outdoors and is quite small, but we went with a group of friends and had a fun time!

The quality of the fight is really going to depend on the athletes. We’ve heard some people say they came on a night when the fights seemed “rigged”. However, on the night we were there, we had an acquaintance that was fighting (there is often a foreigner in the last fight), and it seemed real to us!

Also, the matches typically start with young fighters and go up in age as the matches progress.

How much does it cost?

• Normal Ticket: 400 baht ($12.70 USD)
• VIP Ticket: 600 baht ($19 USD)
• there are also cocktails for a bit higher price

Insider Tip: In our opinion, the normal seats were just fine and weren’t much farther away than the VIP seats (in the photo above, you’ll see the men ahead of us were in the VIP seats but weren’t that much closer). Also, it is possible to reserve your seats in advance, but we had no trouble showing up and getting tickets at the door. It is also a bit cheaper to get the tickets in person.

What time are the matches? 

The Muay Thai fights start around 9 p.m. (you can be seated earlier) and they are held on most nights.

Really interested in Muay Thai? Why not take a course and try it out for yourself. There are many Muay Thai boxing gyms in Chiang Mai where you can learn from a trained instructor.

39. Go on a street art scavenger hunt

You don’t have to wander far in Chiang Mai to see displays of street art on walls or the sides of businesses. Whenever we’re in a city known for its street art scene, we love scoping out as many murals as possible.

There are a handful of well-known resident artists in Chiang Mai, plus, it’s a city that attracts muralists from around the world to leave their mark. 

Where to find street art in Chiang Mai:

• The Old City (especially the eastern section) is a great place to do a little self-guided street art scavenger hunt. 
• The Abandoned Women’s Prison is known as a good place for spotting a variety of murals. You can see many pieces of art from the outside without trespassing.
• You’ll also see lots of smaller pieces on the smaller streets in the Nimman neighborhood.

And if you’re really interested, this is a pretty comprehensive guide to street art in Chiang Mai .

40. Ride in a Songthaew (Red Truck)

When you visit Chiang Mai you can’t miss the numerous songthaews , or red trucks, on the roads. Songthaews, literally translated means “two rows”. They are converted red trucks with two padded bench seats in the bed and act as shared “taxis” throughout the city. 

Red trucks are our favorite way to get around Chiang Mai . Not only are red trucks plentiful and help reduce the number of cars on the road, they are fairly inexpensive costing only 30 baht ($0.93 USD) per person anywhere within the old city. 

Here is our rule of thumb for songthaew costs:

• Anywhere within or around the Chiang Mai Old City: 30 baht per person
• Chiang Mai Old City to Nimman Road area: 40 baht per person (sometimes only 30 if they already have a load of people)
• Chiang Mai Old City or Nimman Road to Airport: 50 baht person
• Old City to Doi Suthep Temple: 60 baht per person one-way

How to get in a Songthaew red truck

Hail down a red truck just like you would a cab or a tuk tuk, and they will pull over on the side of the road. Say hello (sah-wah-dee) to the driver and tell them the general area you are going. 

It may confuse them if you request a specific hotel or restaurant. We typically request one of the old city gates, or a popular market, and then just walk the rest of the way. 

If they know where you are going, they will either say “Okay” or state a price per person. If they don’t say a price, it is understood that the price is 30 baht per person. 

The drivers are pretty good about getting to where you want to go, but if they go past your stop, you can ring the bell on the ceiling and they will pull over. Hop out and pay the driver. 

41. See a cabaret show

If you’re looking for a fun night out on the town, consider seeing a cabaret show! RAM Bar will show you a good time with live performances every night starting at 10 p.m. The dancers are super talented and you’ll see several acts during this 1.5-hour show. 

Our advice would be to arrive early, as these shows fill up quickly and it is a very tiny venue. The drinks are on the expensive side, but the show is free, so we found it worthwhile and a fun experience!

P.S. Maybe you’ll get lucky like Ben and get called up on stage for a “special dance experience” haha!

42. Cheers with local craft beer (sort of…)

Any fellow craft beer lovers out there?! Listen up because we have some good news and some bad news. 

The bad: Thailand is well known for its light beers, like Chang, Leo and Singha. In fact, Chang has a monopoly on brewing in Thailand, meaning no other companies can actually brew inside the country.

To get around this, some small craft brewers source local ingredients, then send each batch off to Cambodia to be brewed and then returned to Thailand. Talk about red tape! 

Since this process comes with a big cost and is a logistical nightmare, the craft beer scene is still very small overall. 

The good: Things are changing. Since my first visit to Thailand back in 2011, things have changed a LOT when it comes to craft beer. Chiang Mai actually has a decent craft beer scene for being in a country where they have to outsource the brewing process. 

There are a handful of craft beer bars where you can get imported brews as well as “local beer”. (Remember, it may be sourced and combined in Thailand, but it is technically brewed outside of the country.)

One more thing we should point out is that because the brewing must be outsourced, craft beer in Thailand is very expensive. It is at least as expensive as you’d pay for a craft brew in a Western country, and a lot of times it’s even more than you’d pay at home.

But the cravings are real, friends, and if you want to some of Chiang Mai’s best (sort of) local beers, here’s where you’ll find them:

Best places for craft beer in Chiang Mai

• My Beer Friend : With a few locations around the city, My Beer Friend brews some pretty decent beers including IPAs and Stouts. You can also find their bottled beer in some of the bottle shops around town.
• Mind Cafe : With several taps and a refrigerator filled with craft bottles, this quaint shop in the Old City has a big selection.
• Q-Bar : Located in the Nimman neighborhood, this bar almost has speakeasy vibes and has a decent selection of craft beer.
• Renegade Craft Beer & Billiards : If you’re looking for a true sports bar vibe with a good beer selection, this will be your jam!
• Beer Lab : This place probably has the largest selection of imported beer in the entire city, but we weren’t overly impressed by the vibe or the prices.

43. Check out the nightlife in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s nightlife scene isn’t as lively as many other major cities, as the bars must “officially” close at midnight. Oh, and while we’re on the topic, if it is a crazy night out you’re looking for, Zoe in Yellow (a popular backpacker bar/club) is going to be the best place to find that scene.

But there are plenty of fun things to do at night, whether that involves drinks or not!. (See #15, #38 and  #41 on this list for some ideas.)

If you love live music and are craving a jam session, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to hear Chiang Mai actually has a pretty decent live music scene . Here are some venues that regularly host live music:

Where to see live music in Chiang Mai

• Northgate Jazz Co-Op : This ultra-popular venue can get super crowded, especially on Tuesdays when they host an open mic night. Expect to be standing on the street, mingling with other music-lovers.
• Thapae East : This venue is super cool and hosts many events.
• 7 Pounds : This bar is a hidden oasis, and we’re obsessed! With a garden lit by fairy lights, decently priced drinks and a big stage for performers, this low key bar is tucked away in a quiet street not far from Maya Mall and will make you feel as if you’ve discovered a local secret!
• Mellowship Jazz Club : Live music every night of the week. A little bit more upscale, but a pretty nice place if you want seating, food and nice drinks while enjoying live music.

44. Boil eggs in San Kamphaeng Hot Springs

While I wouldn’t say this is a must do for your first (or even second!) visit to Chiang Mai, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs Park is an interesting experience for someone who is looking to get far off the beaten path.

We stumbled upon this park by accident when driving to the floating pagodas of Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat (a day trip from Chiang Mai we totally recommend!).

We found a bunch of hot springs ranging in temperature — from nearly boiling to a comfortable soaking temperature.

We wandered past Thai families boiling eggs in the extremely hot pools and groups of Thai teenagers soaking their feet in the cooler pools while small children splashed around. 

There are local places to grab lunch, making it a good place to refuel before continuing on a little countryside road trip.

45. Visit a botanical garden

If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys escaping the city for nature, Chiang Mai has a few botanical gardens that are worth a visit.

• Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm
• Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Entrance fee: 40 baht per person

Situated just 30 minutes north of the city center, this enchanting botanical garden showcases it’s butterfly residents fluttering around among a vast collection of orchids. Visitors can wander through lush gardens, marvel at rare orchid varieties, and witness the delicate dance of vibrant butterflies that flit about.

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden

• Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Entrance fee: 100 baht for adults (50 baht for children)

Another 15 minutes west of Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm is the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden. Spanning over 1,000 acres, this expansive garden is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Thailand’s diverse plant species.

Visitors can explore themed gardens, including the Rainforest Collection and the Rock Garden, which feature an array of indigenous flora. The garden also serves as a hub for research and conservation, promoting environmental awareness and education.

We decided long ago that we will not knowingly contribute to attractions that exploit people or animals while traveling . A picture, in our opinion, just isn’t worth the suffering of others .

We know all too well that it is often hard to know if a company is socially responsible, so we try to share what we’ve learned along the way. We hope this information helps you formulate your own opinion about visiting some controversial sites on your travels.

As with any controversial issue, research the subject, and formulate your own opinion so you can make a socially-responsible decision.

Related: Easy ways to Travel More Responsibly

Tiger Kingdom

You will undoubtedly be pestered by tuk tuk drivers shouting “Tiger Kingdom! I take you to Tiger Kingdom!” After doing lots of research on the subject and talking to others who have visited this attraction, we have very strong feelings about this type of tourism.

And we made a firm decision not to support it even though, yes, having a picture with a large cat would be quite cool.

At the “sanctuary”, tigers are treated in a way that is undoubtedly inhumane. Hordes of people line up daily to have their photo taken with these animals that are living a harmful and unnatural lifestyle. This article outlines several reasons to avoid this tourist hotspot.

Elephant Trekking

Many of the treks advertised in Chiang Mai include an elephant ride. As we’ve written before , riding on an elephant’s back is actually very harmful to these gentle creatures. There are a few elephant sanctuaries in Thailand that treat them well, but the overwhelming majority are terribly cruel.

We had a wonderful experience at the very reputable Elephant Nature Park . Here, you can be assured that your contribution is not harming the animals, but instead is ensuring they have a healthy and happy life.

Visiting the “Long Neck” Hill Tribes

Several tour shops advertise tours that take you to a hill tribe village where you can see the famous “Longneck” people (this actually refers to a subgroup of the Karen people). 

Although we can’t speak from experience, some people we spoke to who had done these tours said it felt like a group of people on display in the name of tourism. Others claim that many of these villages’ main source of livelihood comes from tourism.

We, too, are intrigued by the indigenous tribes, but are still unsure of how we feel about this. It is no doubt a complicated issue that brings up many feelings in different people. 

Our advice would be to do a little research and decide where you stand on this topic. 

If you do decide to visit a hill tribe village, be sure to choose a company that is paying the villagers fairly and operating in an ethical way. Also, do some research on the history of these indigenous groups – many of whom are refugees – and you will have a much more meaningful experience.

How many days do you need in Chiang Mai?

Now that we have shared all the fun things to do in Chiang Mai, you’re probably wondering how you’re to fit it all in? AmIright ??

The number of days you should spend in Chiang Mai depends on your interests, travel preferences, and the activities you plan to do. 

If you’re more interested in exploring Thailand’s diverse landscapes outside of the city, you may find that 3 days in Chiang Mai is enough to get your palette wet. However, for a well-rounded experience of Chiang Mai, we’d suggest spending 5 to 7 days in the city. 

Here are some general guidelines:

• 3-4 days: Get a taste exploring Chiang Mai’s Old City and Nimman neighborhoods. Visit historic sites like Doi Suthep, Wat Pha Lat, and the night markets. And get a taste of Chiang Mai’s food scene.
• 5-7 days: If you have specific interests like taking a cooking class, doing a Monk Chat or learning Muay Thai, you might want to allocate additional time for exploration and cultural experiences. 
• 1 week or more: More time for exploring the city. Allocate 1 to 2 days for day trips to nearby destinations such as Doi Inthanon National Park, Sticky Waterfalls, or an elephant sanctuary, each offering unique experiences.

Before you plan your trip there is one very important thing to consider… We are going to go over the best time to visit Chiang Mai (and when to avoid visiting at all costs!).

• Thai “winter” has the best weather (November – January): Don’t be fooled by the word “winter” — temperatures are comfortable (warm during the day and slightly crisp at night). Also, during this time of year, rain is rare and the air is fresh!
• We would strongly advise against visiting Chiang Mai during this time. We lived in CM during this time, and it made most activities outside pretty miserable. Thankfully, weather in many of the Thai islands is very nice during this time of year.
• Hot & rainy season (May – October): Rain is frequent during these months and the temperatures can be unbearably hot and humid. Often times, the rain doesn’t last all day, but when it falls, it falls hard!

Related: Read up more on the best time to visit Thailand . This country is huge and spans many different microclimates, so the weather varies a lot!

How to get to Chiang Mai city center from the airport

Chiang Mai International Airport is located pretty near the city center (about a 10 minute drive to the Phae Gate in the Old City and 15 minutes to Nimman Road). 

When you arrive at the Chiang Mai International Airport, there is a taxi queue, but you’ll find that it is overpriced. Instead, order a Grab to pick you up directly from the airport. 

Or if you are on a shoestring budget, you can wait in front of the departure doors for a songthaew to come by. From the airport to the city, it should cost around 50 baht per person.

Transportation in Chiang Mai

Getting from one place to another is quite simple in Chiang Mai due to all the options for transportation. Here are just a few of the most common ways to get around:

• Songthaew (Red Truck)

These “shared taxis” are everywhere in the city and can basically take you anywhere you want to go for about 30-60 baht per person. More information above in #40.

Southeast Asia’s version of Uber and Lyft, this ride sharing app is super handy when wanting to get to a specific place. Grab constantly has promotions going on and we have gotten across the city for 20 baht before! Typical rides around town vary from 50-100 baht.

We only recommend renting a motorbike if you have driven one before and are comfortable with driving in a busy city and on the left side of the road. Additionally, you should always respect the rules of the road and don’t ride like an idiot to try to impress people.

Now that I’ve gotten that warning over with: Renting a motorbike can be one of the cheapest ways to get around and explore the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Rentals start at around 250 – 300 baht per day. You’ll need to leave your passport at the rental shop for collateral.

And please, please, PLEASE… wear a proper helmet (with wind-guard and facemask). It’s worth the extra 50 baht ($1.66 USD). We have seen/heard off too many travelers getting in accidents and we don’t want that to be you.

When you’re visiting Chiang Mai, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.

• Know what weather to expect . Chiang Mai is pretty darn reliable when it comes to weather, so look up the weather in advance so you can plan and pack accordingly. And if possible, avoid burning season – trust us (we’ve experienced it and it’s awful).
• Save room in your suitcase for souvenirs. Chiang Mai is my favorite place in Thailand to stock up on souvenirs. It tends to be cheaper than shopping in Bangkok or the Thai islands. Plus, the markets are great places to browse just about all the souvenirs you can imagine in one place.
• Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking a lot in Chiang Mai, and the sidewalks are notoriously uneven, so wear your comfiest shoes!
• Bring layers to wear at temples. When visiting temples (which you’ll definitely do in CM!) women will want to have something to cover your shoulders and knees. I like carrying a sarong in my bag which can be wrapped around my waist as a skirt, and a loose fitting t-shirt if I need to cover up a tank top.
• Don’t try to see all the things. There is so much to do and see in Chiang Mai that it can be overwhelming. Prioritize the things you want to see the most because you definitely won’t be able to do it all. Also, my advice is to choose a few temples that stand out to you and not try to see them all. There are hundreds and they can start to blend together after a while, in my opinion.
• Have a plan for transportation. Do you feel comfortable renting a motorbike? If not, you’ll need to rely on songthaews and Grabs to get around the city (which is pretty easy). The part that will be trickier is getting to the places outside the city. If you plan to do a lot of exploring outside the center, you may need to book a tour or arrange a driver.

From an amazing street food scene with traditional Thai dishes, to an abundance of vegetarian and vegan places, to tons of international options, Chiang Mai is truly a gem when it comes to food.  

Insider Tip: We love going into Google Maps and looking at the reviews for all the restaurants near our current location. Typically, you can’t go wrong when the reviews are 4.5 and up!

You could eat at a new restaurant every day of the year and still not visit all of Chiang Mai’s restaurants and food stalls, so there’s absolutely no way we could make a comprehensive list.

Honestly, I’m hesitant to even list restaurants here, as you won’t have to look far to find great food… But here are a (big) handful of restaurants (mostly in the Nimman neighborhood) to get you started:

**= vegetarian / vegan restaurant

*= many vegetarian vegan options (but still serves meat)

Local/Thai food

• Anchan **: One of our favorites! Vegetarian versions of Thai favorites. We especially love their massaman curry and stir fried mixed veggies. Yum!
• Khao Soi Mae Sai : Our favorite Khao Soi place in the city! Local shop, and cheap prices.
• Cherng Doi Roast Chicken : Famous for roast chicken and sticky rice (served with a yummy sauce!) as well as their papaya salads. Their mushroom tom yam soup is good too (and vegetarian).
• FYI: It is a very small menu with basically a few options for one dish — stewed pork leg and rice. I do not believe there are any veg options.
• Home J Vegan & Teaw J **: Super cheap Thai vegan place where you pick 3 dishes to be served over rice. The woman who owns this small restaurant is sweet and does a lot of “mock meat s”.
• Our favorite is the vegetarian stand, Shan Tou Hao Chi **. If you like mushrooms, be sure to ask for a serving. The are amazing! The people who work at this stall are so sweet, and you’ll get a big portion for a small price (around 40 baht).
• Wrap Master * is another good option in the food court. You’ll find burritos and creative wraps (with veg options).
• Tip: Order your skewers “less spicy” (you’ll select your preference on a piece of paper where you place your order). We love spicy food, but this is next-level spicy! Oh, and if you eat pork, the bacon-wrapped mushrooms are super tasty!
• Street Food @ One Nimman *: Street Food Style Food Court area with lots of choices!

Our favorite cafes

• Free Bird Cafe **: Non-profit vegan cafe with a zero waste and thrift shop inside.
• Gallery Seescape *: Super tasty meals that are healthy and have lots of veggies. Our favorites are: chicken & roast veggie salad, veggie rice bowl, deconstructed massaman beef sandwich, and eggs Benedict. I ordered a smoothie bowl once and was disappointed, as it was really runny.
• Manifreshto *: This tiny cafe is one of our favorite places for healthy smoothies (they’re amazing!) and decadent (Western) breakfasts. Many of the breakfast options include meat, but you can make substitutions (for mushrooms or egg).
• Imm Aim Vegetarian and Bike Cafe **: Vegetarian restaurant with tons of Thai dishes.
• Blue Diamond **: Located in a quiet part of Old City, has a big vegetarian menu and lots of yummy desserts.

Other favorites

• Food 4 Thought *: Huge menu with Western options, and everything is made from scratch. We think the best thing on the menu are their (huge!) salads (Citrus Chicken, Zorba, and Cobb are some favorites). Oh, and try their carrot cake too!
• Tip: In the same courtyard space is a wine shop ( Wine Lover by Pao ) that has lots of options (as well as a decently priced house wine available in carafes). Wine is not always easy to find in Asia, so if you like vino, keep this little shop in mind!
• Salsa Kitchen *: Best Mexican food we’ve found in Chiang Mai. Good margs too, and lots of vegetarian and vegan options.
• Tip: There are tons of topping and dressing options to choose from — some better than others — and it does take a little experimenting to come up with a good combo. (We like the creamy sesame and Japanese soy dressings.)
• Cat House *: Mix of Western and Thai food on the east side of Old City. Lots of veg options.
• Beast Burger : If you’re craving a burger, this is one of the best you’ll find in all of Chiang Mai.
• Adirak Pizza *: A bit out of the way, but this place has the best pizza we’ve had in Asia.
• Namaste Indian Cuisine * is another good choice for Indian, and it’s cheaper, but not as nice of an atmosphere.
• Ninja Ramen : Big selection of many different types of ramen.
• Ai Sushi and Tsunami Sushi Bar : Two of our favorite spots for sushi. Ai Sushi has a larger menu, while Tsunami is cheaper.

There are plenty of amazing hotels in Chiang Mai. If you’re looking for the best place to stay during a short visit, we’d recommend finding accommodation near Tha Phae Gate (the east part of the Old City or just outside). 

If you are planning to spend some time living in Chiang Mai as a digital nomad , we’d recommend looking for accommodation in the Nimman neighborhood .   For more detailed information on the different neighborhoods, plus lots of hotel and Airbnb recommendations, we put together an entire article for travelers trying to figure out where to stay in Chiang Mai .

Be sure to download our complete packing list for SE Asia ! It’s packed with good suggestions and insider tips to help plan your SE Asia vacation. And it’s completely FREE, so why not!?

Round up of the best things to do in Chiang Mai

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Chiang Mai so you can see everything in one place.

• Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Tong)
• Wat Pha Lat Temple
• Elephants in Chiang Mai (the responsible way)
• Bamboo rafting  
• Temple hopping
• Doi Suthep Temple (Wat Phra That)
• Chiang Mai’s Night Markets 
• Thai Cooking Class
• Doi Inthanon National Park
• Lampang’s “Floating Pagodas” (Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat)
• Huay Kaew Waterfall and swimming hole
• Mok Fa Waterfall
• Rooftop bars
• Thai massage
• Northern Thai dishes
• Loy Krathong & Yi Peng Festivals
• Meditate with monks
• Street food
• Viahero Chiang Mai itinerary
• Chiang Mai’s Local Markets
• Eat ALL the tropical fruits
• Songkran celebrations
• Chiang Mai Grand Canyon
• Cafe culture
• Huay Tung Tao Reservoir
• Old City Chiang Mai
• Secret Art Village 
• Chiang Mai’s Luxurious Malls
• Co-Working Space
• Muay Thai fight
• Street art scavenger hunt
• Cabaret Show
• San Kamphaeng Hot Springs

More Thailand resources…

We have TONS of resources on travel in Thailand and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Best Time to Visit Thailand: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Digital Nomad’s Guide to Living in Chiang Mai
• Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat: Adventurous Day Trip From Chiang Mai
• Visiting Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Tong) in Chiang Mai

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We want to hear from you!

Which of these things to do in Chiang Mai are going straight to the top of your bucket list? Do you have any other suggestions you think belong on this list? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below. 

Comments (110) on “ 45 Absolute Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand ”

Thank you for all of the information! It is obvious that it is a lot of work! You’ve helped so much!

Great post! So thorough and well put together. We are headed to Chiang Mai next week and I have a whole list of things to do and places to visit now!

Thank you so much for this detailed blog, had so much fun reading it!!

Thanks for the post. It has some really useful info. I have been to Chiang Mai, but it was years ago and I know it has changed loads. I am now heading back with teenage kids, so really looking forward to trying out some of the adventurous activities with them.

Great blog! Thank you for all the info. I believe I might have found the name of the artist village you mention in your blog post. Is it called Bann Kang Wat?

Hi there 🙂 Just wanted to give a comment that this was an amazing blog and I genuinely appreciate you and your efforts! I am ecstatic about my visit and can’t wait!

Hi guys, I had the incredible opoortunity (thanks for the best article btw) to chat with monsk in Wat Pha Lat! Inspired by your article, I wanted to ask about their position on LGBT and share that with you. The monks said, they believe in karma and that LGBT bring (in their opinion) bad karma from orevious life. They ended by saying that everyone has right to love and to be loved:) This comment relates to one of the article above. I hope I answered your question:)

Once again, thank you. Kevin

Thank you for this incredible post. It made me fall in love with Chiangmai Mai, and I haven’t even been there yet! Beautiful photos too.

I’ve been thinking about going back to Chiang Mai (now that it looks like Thailand might open soon). Saw your list and realized I didn’t do half the things on your list when I was there several years ago. Looking forward to do a bit of hiking – didn’t think that was possible near Chiang Mai. Thanks for sharing!

As a current resident in Chiang Mai, this list is incredible for tourists and locals alike. Amazing! Thank you so much.

This is an amazing list, thank you so much for putting the time and effort on this! Even though a few places are closed due to covid, I’ve saved many to try out 🙂

And I think the name of the little art market is "All day craft market" 🙂 thank you again for this!

My god such detailed info! I have been to Thailand before but never thought of Chiang Mai. Definitely on my list of places to visit. Thanks for sharing.

We have been to Chiang Mai 3x – found your blog on the last visit and it was incredibly helpful. Thank You! We always do a pair of overnight visits to Elephant Nature Park. We have also added Happy Elephant Home for a smaller more personal experience. We both got tattooed last visit (Ganesha Tattoo- sadly closed – and Celebrity Ink). Utilizing your info we did the Pilgrim’s Path hike (then found out there is red truck and Grab Car service available – better to hike though). We designed a 2 day food tour that hit 8 restaurants /coffee bars from your recommendations plus 4 more we found. Renting a motorcycle or scooter was cool but we did have to also hire a guide for the day since following someone is so much easier than traveling on the left side of the road. We have settled on the month of Nov every year as we love the Yi Peng and Loi Krathong Festival. Visiting the Buddhist Temple of Hell, Wat Mae Kaet Noi, was pretty interesting as the guide we hired to lead us was also a Buddhist scholar who shared many insights and historical facts with us. We always enjoy a couple drinks at Blue Boy Bar at the Night Market for some amazing music. Thanks for sharing your experiences! Steve & Gayle

So helpful! THANK YOU

I will be shifting to Chiang Mai within next few months and this is really helpful. I got a clear insight now

Thank you for taking the time out to share your experiences . It has been most helpful for our upcoming trip

This is super helpful thank you for all of the work that went into this!

Oooh this is a nice list. My favourite is getting soaked at Songkran celebrations. That looks really fun. The waterfall also looking cool. Haha basically anything involving water

i have a blogger couple that used to live there, and they also have such lovely things to say! so far i have spent time in PhiPhi, Samui and Phuket. Id love to explore more, i fell in love with Thailand!

I am so amazed by this long list of things to do in Chiang Mai! I am planning to go there in a few months so I will definitely save this list for later! And all that food makes me willing to travel there asap!

Oh my god, how good does the food look there? I have been itching to go back to Thailand for a while now and I can’t wait to visit Chiang Mai.

Browse for reading treasures in the Lost Bookstore. They will also buy back books at a reasonable rate once you are done! It is a unique place with books up to the ceiling.

Thanks for the additional tip, Janine!

Such a helpful blog! Taken so many screenshots for next week when we arrive. Thank you!

Great to hear, Ashleigh! Hope you have a great time in Chiang Mai!

What a great blog thank you, heading there for 7 nights on way to Uk for Xmas and now have our days filled. We have been there before but backpacking 30 yrs ago so lots have changed I’m sure. Thank you..

Hey Sandy, You’re right, a lot has changed in Chiang Mai in 30 years. I would be curious to hear the differences you noticed. Have a great trip!

What a fantastic blog, i have been researching for a while now and this is by far the most helpful site i have visited. thank you!

Aww, thank you so much, Diana! We hope you have a wonderful time in Chiang Mai!

Thanks for the information! Much appreciated.

Hey Nafeez, you are very welcome! Hope you have a wonderful time in Chaing Mai!

Hello I just finished reading your blog it was super helpful!! I have one question. Are there red trucks to pick you up where they drop you off outside the city?? Also when you rented bikes, was it okay to leave it parked somewhere? I have this fear of not finding a ride back to my hotel is I deiced to go hiking or leave a bike I rented without it getting stolen?? Not sure if I’m being irrational.

Good Questions, Ariana. There are red trucks everywhere in the city! They frequently drive up Doi Suthep too, so if this is where you are hiking, you’ll be able to find one. If not, get a phone number of a red truck driver from your hotel and they will be able to help you out. When you rent bikes, it’s always best to get a lock for them. Chiang Mai is a very safe city, and I wouldn’t expect someone to take a rental bike, but it’s always best to just lock it up. Hope this helps!

very nice info, i will go there soon!

RE: "2018 Update: We have been told the Grand Canyon has now been turned into a water park of sorts with platforms and inflatable toys. It sounds like a bunch of fun, but the entrance fee has increased and is currently 450 baht (up quite a bit from 50 baht when we were there in 2015)."

There are two businesses at the canyon. One is the big waterpark, but the other, in your photos, is next door and still there. We paid 100b yesterday. Entrances/parking areas are just meters apart.

Hi Liz! Yes there are two water park areas: One will the inflatables (450 baht), and one more for lounging (100 baht). There are literally right next to each other so for others making the trip, make sure you know which one you want to enter. Update to come 🙂

Hi Katie, Ben, thanks for your very helpful comments. Any thoughts/comments on farm stays in Chiang Mai?

We didn’t do a farm stay near Chiang Mai (we did one up near Pai, you should check out that article). We’d recommend looking on the WWOOF website to find farms. Make sure to look through the comments, rating and details before you commit a week or two to a farm.

Such a great article 🙂 So excited to squeeze as much in as possible – we have only booked 5 days but may stay longer! Your photos are gorgeous – it looks like a really beautiful place. Particularly excited about the hiking and visiting the elephants! Thanks for sharing all your knowledge and tips 😀

You are very welcome Kirsty! There are so many things to do in Chiang Mai, we love it there!

Great article, thanks. My wife and I volunteer (once every two years) at Elephant Nature Park with their Seven day package and it’s amazing. You get to help out and really learn about these amazing animals, plus you meet some great people. If you have time I highly recommend the seven day option. We also spend time in Chiang Mai and have grown to love it. Thanks for the suggestions, we will definitely be exploring some of them.

Thanks for your suggestion Dave!

This article was so awesome – thank you!!!

Thanks so much Olivia! We love Chiang Mai! Are you heading there soon?

Thank you so much! I am visiting Chiang Mai in a week and your article was better than anything I hoped on finding after googling about things to do in the city. The tittle and topic have pulled me in, your style of writing and originality have made me stay on your website for hours and I was positively surprised by your way of using influence for the greater good.

Wow, thank you so much for your kind comment. We hope you had a wonderful time in Chiang Mai. We really love this city and always encourage travelers to visit.

Great article, thanks much!

You are very welcome, Iryna!

This is seriously the best post about Chiang Mai I have read! I’ve been twice and planning to go next year and you’ve given me some great ideas of alternative things to do! Thanks!

Thanks for your kind words Shireen. We love Chiang Mai and have lived there twice now!

You guys are awesome. The article is informative and yet a lot sensitive to the Dos and DON’Ts. I love the entire flow it has. Me and my wife are planning to visit it in April 2nd week. I had a few questions: – Would the weather be too bad? We live in Mumbai, India so we are used to the heat and humidity, but would like to know more. – We plan to catch the Bangkok-Chiang Mai train as i absolutely love train journeys. Its a great way to meet more people, exchange travel stories and to see the great landscape go by. Any watch outs? – We both are avid nature lovers and would love to explore small villages or places where we can go for a meal or do some small activity. Any recommendations?

Once again, thank you for the amazing work you guys are doing. If you’ll ever plan a visit to India, I would love to host you’ll in Mumbai and take you around.

Hello Prathamesh, Thank you for you thoughtful comment! The weather in the 2nd week of April will be hot, but it is around the Thai New Year, Songkran. Where the whole city turns into water fight! We’ve hear the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is stunning, but we’ve only been on it in the dark so can’t speak much to that. Up in the Doi Suthep mountains there are villages where you can walk through and explore. Many have small cafes where you can have a good meal. Hope this helps!

This is a great article! We’ve been here for two months and haven’t done half of these things! mostly because we didn’t know they existed, thanks!

Love the ethical aspects of this article, relaying info about the ‘long neck’ women and elephants. I live in CNX and often have to have these conversations with people.

I also saw that you posted one of my FAVE things to do here, which is to see the cabaret show. Just a heads up, they’ve moved from Ram Bar to a spot called 6IXCRET (pronounced Secret) here’s the google map link, you can access them through IG and FB quite easily. It’s all the same performers in a much upgraded venue and with fab new costumes and numbers (I’m totally unaffiliated, just a huge huge fan) https://goo.gl/maps/Kk4QvbqQuhJ2

cheers! Barrak Founder, theluckystraw.com

Thanks Barrak for the recommendation! We’ll have to check it out next time we are in Chiang Mai! Cheers!

I totally agree with you about not visiting human zoos like longneck tours etc. Instead go and meet the real people! Our encounters with Thai, Hmong, Karen and other hill tribe people led to friendship and lasting memories – instead of an arranged photo. Our village stays were organised by Duara travels, which idea is not just have home-stay but to participate in the daily lives of the villages. We went to market, cooked and ate with our families. Picked coffee and roasted it, helped the monks at the temple and sat evenings in their ‘living room’ chatting (with google translate) and drinking hot water. Best of my travel memories!

Hi iina, Sounds like you made some great memories in Chiang Mai. Thanks for sharing!

Love your blog! We are 58 and 60 yo canadian couple, we are selling our house and stuff (so much stuff) and we are getting a small place in Quebec and we’ll be spending 6 months a year elsewhere. Our first place is CHIANG MAI and your excellent input is making a huge difference. Do not stop this great work, you are helping people like us!

Thanks so much Lizabeth. You’re so kind. You are going to love living in Chiang Mai! Let us know if you have any other questions.

THanks for sharing all this and nice tips to get around! Just that perhaps you would add the sky lanterns to be included in the things not to do as they can do a lot of harm to the nature. Otherwise this is a very useful list, thank you!

Yes, definitely a good point. We have an entire article dedicated to the Yi Peng festival and discuss the dangers and harms of sky lanterns. Thanks!

Excellent post !!! I am presently in Chiang Mai and found your suggestions and tips very helpful ! Thank you !!!

We’re so happy to hear that, Celine! Hope you had an amazing time 🙂

Great post! I wish I had seen this before I went to Chiang Mai. Bookmarking for next time!

Hey Pepe, Great to hear you like it! Let us know if you want any more advice for traveling around Thailand!

Whenever I am in Chiang Mai, my family and I usually stay at Akyra Manor. The hotel is great and spacious, staff were very helpful and made our stay comfortable plus the rooftop bar is nice and not too busy.

Thanks you for the additional tips about Chiang Mai!

The most unusual list about Things to do in Chiang Mai I saw. It is necessary to add here an Infinity nightclub! =)

Thanks Cat! Glad you liked our list of things to do in Chiang Mai.

This is awesome, one of the best CM guides that I have read. Definitely saving a bunch of these places 🙂

Thank you so much, that really means a lot! We spent a lot of time on it, so we’re so happy to hear when it’s helpful!

Fantastic article, very thorough and detailed i will be using much of this information. Thank you!

You are very welcome Mike. Hope you enjoy Chiang Mai!

Hi guys. I’m currently researching sustainable tourism development, for my dissertation project for university in the U.K. Sustainable tourism development is a very important topic at the moment! I would greatly appreciate your help so if you can spare 5 mins to fill in the survey please do! The survey coconsists of 12 questions and its design makes it easy to use and complete.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScqt4fl7N1NJF25mSjFO9_ycCU7o_ZKm-OJFs30liOPwtzHow/viewform?usp=sf_link

Hi Chris, thanks for your comment. If you want to talk further about your survey, please fill out the form on our Contact Us page. Cheers!

Love this post, thank you so much for lots of wonderful info! I’m headed on a solo adventure to Asia and will be spending four days in Chiang Mai and your post has made me so excited!

Hey Julie, Thanks so much for your sweet comment. We’re really glad you liked the article. There are so many things to do in Chiang Mai, you will have a great 4 days. Let us know if you have any questions. Cheers!

I’m so glad I found your blog! I am dying to go to Thailand and Chiang Mai is at the top of my list. Thanks!

Hey Chelsea, we’re glad you found it useful! You’ll love Chiang Mai and the rest of Thailand! Let us know if you have any questions, we are happy to help!

These tips are great! We’re planning to go to Thailand in the beginning of September, but am a little concerned about the rainy season. Also, not finding any trips we liked we are planning our own and signing up for a couple day tours at each location. Is Thailand easily to navigate?

Hey Stephanie, in my opinion, Thailand is one of the easiest countries to navigate on your own. Nearly everyone speaks English and they really cater to travelers. Let us know if you have any other questions on Thailand.

Thanks for the tip about the Saturday morning hiking group! My husband and I met up with them for an 18 mile hike last weekend. It was a ton of fun.

Hey Megan! Glad you enjoyed the hiking group. 18 miles, wow that’s impressive!

Hi.. love your blog.. would like to ask about the Wat Pan Tao Lantern Ceremony.. It looks amazing… where can I get more info about this? 🙂

Hey Mel, The Wat Phan Tao Lantern Ceremony is held at Wat Phan Tao on the night of Loy Krathong (which for 2017 is November 3rd) and the ceremony is usually around 7-8pm. But you will want a good spot to view the ceremony you should get there about 2 hours early (before the sun sets), because it gets super crowded.

I been having withdrawals just returning from Thailand and Chiangmai is def one of my fave cities. You got the countryside and city side by side. And it isn’t overcrowded like Bangkok. Great for sharing. thanks. We stayed Yesterday Hotel on Nimmanahaeminda Rd and it was alright. Good thing is, it was close to everything. Its good to know there are some reviews on hostels because I was always a bit iffy on it. How did you guys find the place or was it recommended? I will check it out. We plan to go back in the near future. To Chiang Rai first then back to Chiang Mai.

Agreed – having the city near nature is one aspect we really loved! We usually use Hostelworld to look at reviews and only choose places that are highly ranked (aka not dirty or in a bad location). We’ve found tons of amazing hostels on there and a lot of times stay in private rooms. Happy travels!

Did you do the full day or half day class?

Hi Lynette, We did the full-day class and would highly recommend doing it that way if you have the time. On the day that we did the cooking class, there was only one couple who had signed up for half day, and it kind of felt like awkward timing for them. Hope that answers your question!

You just made me miss Chiang Mai SOOOOO MUCH! For 1. You mentioned Khao Soi which is my favoritest thing in the entire world! The first bite of it I took, I knew it would bring me heartbreak since I couldn’t get it anywhere else in the world…2. The place you mentioned to try it is my favorite noodle cart! I have a picture of it so I know how to identify it among all the other carts! Too funny.

I feel like I had pretty much the same experience in Chiang Mai as you did. The only thing I didn’t get to do was make Krathongs. Can you tell me where you sourced the materials, did someone help you make them or show you how? would love to get their information if I could.

Ahh so funny about the noodle cart – we went back there at least 5 times because the Khao Soi was the best we had anywhere else in the city! And SO cheap!

We were in Chiang Mai during the Loi Krathong celebration and the cooking class that we did actually provided all the materials for us to make them. It was kind of a special class since I think they only do it at that time of year. But it was such a cool experience!

Thanks for sharing your website – we’ll have to check it out!

Great article! We feel very much the same as you do about visiting the North in terms of what to do and what not to do ie visit the hill tribe people! I’m half Thai and totally agree that Khao Soi should be a staple on Thai menus in Western countries! It’s one of my favourite dishes and i can’t believe my Mum never told me about it!

Hey Su Bish! It’s always a good idea to stay away from tourist traps that exploit animals or indigenous tribes. And OMG how good is Khao Soi! Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!

Great write. Your article has inspired me to travelled to Chiang Mai. Well done!

Thanks John! Glad we could convince you to travel, though it doesn’t take much 🙂

Thanks John! Chiang Mai is great. Glad to hear we inspired you to travel there!

I’ve been to the Loi Krathong festival in Pattaya, but I hear that Chiang Mai is the place to go for that. The police were stamping out sky lanterns on the beach with their feet! Wasn’t what I pictured the celebrations to be like at all!

Hey Pattaya! Chiang Mai is a nice place to be for Loi Krathong Festival but it does get really busy. It seems like everyone and their mom came to the festival and the city was absolutely packed. Hard to find accommodation. They no longer have the mass sky lantern release (unless you want to pay $100-300 to do it), so it might not be what you’re expecting. There’s one night during the festival that you can release the sky lanterns in the city, which is pretty spectacular, but again it’s quite busy.

Hey, just a note. Unfortunately, there are companies convincing people you have to pay to do the sky lantern release. It’s totally unnecessary to do that. I was just there last November and I paid all of 50Baht for a Lantern and walked over to the Nawarat Bridge to release lanterns with a group of people. There were hundreds of people out there doing the same.

YES! We did the same thing. We were there in 2015, and realized that the major ceremony being advertised was just for tourists – not authentic at all – so we steered clear of it and bought our own lantern to release on the bridge with all the other people who were doing the same 🙂 Glad you did that too!

Thank you! I am travelling to Thailand and Laos this November/December and your advice will be very beneficial. Great job good onya. ?

Just 2 things if I may. Firstly did you build your own website and if so which did you use? Secondly if you’re interested you can follow my journey through these countries on Instagram @ bernie9330

Hey Bernie! We use Squarespace as a website platform and we’ll definitely check out your Instagram. Hope you have fun in Thailand and Laos, you’ll love it there! Glad to hear our stuff has been helpful.

WOW! this blog made me more giddy for my trip to Chiang Mai this November! This blog is really REALLY helpful! <3

Thank you so much!

Hi Mish, I’m so happy you found it helpful! November is a wonderful time to be in Thailand. Are you planning to be there for the Yi Peng lantern festival? It’s an incredible experience, but if you plan to be there at that time, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance! The city gets completely full and we were without a bed for a night! Eeek! Happy planning and let us know if you have any questions!

YAAAAAS! I wanted to go there because of the Yi Peng Festival! It’s my first time to travel solo and go to overseas.. so im both excited and nervous at the same time!Haha I have booked my accommodation as early as January! that’s how excited I am!HAHA I did a lot of research aswell and I have read tonds of blogs about Chiang Mai and yours is one of the best! All tickets for the paid Yi Peng festival are already sold out,so what I plan to do is just to celebrate the festival just the way locals do! And again, im excited about it. 🙂

That’s great! You’ll love being there during the Yi Peng Festival, such a great time! And good idea about celebrating just like the locals. I think that’s the best way to do it.

Thanks for the great post! We’re planning our second trip to SE Asia and will definitely be taking some of these recommendations!

Thanks so much, Bethany! We hope these suggestions are helpful! Let us know what you think of Thailand and SE Asia 🙂 Best of luck planning!

Great roundup, guys! Thanks for including us 🙂

Chris and Angela

Thanks Chris & Angela! That’s a huge compliment coming from you guys. We love your stuff and recommend it to everyone.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Chiang Mai

EPIC 3-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary (2024)

Surrounded by lofty mountains hugged by tropical jungle, Chiang Mai is not your typical urban sprawl! Despite its size, the chilled atmosphere and proximity to nature make it one of the most relaxed cities you’ll ever visit.

Chiang Mai has a proud past as an independent kingdom and still retains many of its traditional  Lanna  customs. You’ll be immersed in all of this and more with our in-depth Chiang Mai itinerary!

Chiang Mai’s such an amazing city that we’ve waxed lyrical about it on countless posts and we’re going to do it again: from gorgeous temples to an atmosphere of zen, there are so many reasons to travel to Chiang Mai!

Whether you’re shopping up a storm at the Night Bazaar or up to your knees in mud as you watch elephants bathe in the river, there’s plenty of fun to be had on your visit to Chiang Mai — just hold tight to our 3-Day Chiang Mai itinerary!

Let’s get right to it…

A Little Bit about this 3-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary

Where to stay in chiang mai in 3 days, chiang mai itinerary day 1: elephants, temples and culture, chiang mai itinerary day 2: learn about history and culture, chiang mai itinerary day 3: a bit of culture, lots of relaxation, what to do with more than 3 days in chiang mai, best time to visit chiang mai, how to get around chiang mai, what to prepare before visiting chiang mai, faq on chiang mai itinerary, final thoughts.

If you want to have a great time backpacking Chiang Mai , it doesn’t really matter how many days you spend here but you do need to have an awesome itinerary — and that’s exactly what we’ve put together right here! From charming temples to vibrant markets, everything you need for an incredible trip to Chiang Mai is packed in 3 days!

Getting around between attractions isn’t very hard. In fact, there are various methods of transportation for you to pick and choose from!

Walking between sites on your 3-day itinerary in Chiang Mai is probably the best method of transport. Since most landmarks are located in the Old City or around the markets, the distances aren’t too far. You should, however, take care when walking: the sidewalks aren’t always well-maintained and are often used by motorcyclists!

The public transport system is centered around tuk-tuks. They’re kind of like taxis as they travel to specific places that you request. Just prepare for a bumpy and very speedy ride!

Song Taews, or Red Taxis, are shared taxis that sometimes have set destinations and other times don’t. For both the Song Taew and the tuk-tuk, you should negotiate prices.

The final option is to hire a motorbike. While many tourists think that getting around on a motorbike is a quintessential part of their vacation in Chiang Mai, it’s worth remembering that Thailand has the second-highest number of road accidents in the world — so make sure you actually know how to drive a motorcycle!

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3-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary Overview

Day 1 in Chiang Mai: Elephant Nature Park , Wat Phra Singh , Wat Phan Tao , Wat Chedi Luang , Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Day 2 in Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center , Chiang Mai National Museum , Wat Umong , Wat Phra That Doi Suthep , San Kamphaeng Road

Day 3 in Chaing Mai: Lanna Folk life Museum , Bhubing Palace , Mae Ping River , Thai Massage , Terracotta Garden

More Places to See in Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai Gate Market , Wat Umong , Wualai Walking Street

As relaxed and peaceful as Chiang Mai may seem, the city is actually quite big! That said, the area that most tourists tend to stick to is quite compact in the downtown part of the city. Here, there are various neighborhoods that will appeal to all kinds of travelers!

Knowing where to stay in Chiang Mai is important to make the most out of the 3 days. Old City has to be the ultimate best place to stay in Chiang Mai. This neighborhood is in the heart of the city and is chock-a-block with the most fascinating Chiang Mai points of interest, such as Wat Chedi Luang!

It’s also the best area in town for those on a budget as there are plenty of Chiang Mai’s backpacker hostels and budget accommodations located here, and you can save costs on transport by walking to the nearby attractions!

Nimmanhaemin, often called Nimman, is a more alternative, modern part of Chiang Mai. It has a vibrant atmosphere and is the center of the city’s local nightlife! Although the most iconic landmarks on your Chiang Mai itinerary aren’t in the area, there are plenty of things to keep you busy, such as bars, clothing boutiques and the local university!

Best Chiang Mai Airbnb – Beautiful Thai Home

A gorgeous traditional wooden house with all modern comforts and conveniences, this Chiang Mai Airbnb is situated near the moat. There’s one king-sized bedroom, another bedroom with bunk beds and a single bed, and an air bed in the living room if required. Bedrooms have air conditioning. The bathroom is new and there’s an open-air kitchen, living room, and dining area. The home has Wi-Fi. There’s secure parking.

Best Budget Hotel in Chiang Mai – Arch39 Minimal Art & Craft

Centrally-located, characterful and sparklingly clean… what else could you ask for from a budget hotel? Arch39 Minimal Art & Craft offers real value for money with its array of spacious rooms, complimentary bicycle hire and delicious breakfasts! The staff are also incredibly friendly and helpful with arranging your 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary!

Best Luxury Hotel in Chiang Mai –  The Inside House

This elegant and comfortable hotel truly deserves its 5-star rating! It’s situated in a stunning white and green mansion in the city center, with landmarks like the Chiang Mai Gate within walking distance! The hotel’s bathrooms are particularly luxurious, mixing indoor and outdoor living with bathtubs set beside private pools and surrounded by greenery — you’ll have to redefine the notion of bliss after a dip here!

Best Hostel in Chiang Mai – S*Trips The Poshtel

What’s not to love about an affordable downtown hostel with plenty of quality facilities? You’ll find all this and more at S*Trips The Poshtel! It’s within walking distance to many of the sites on our 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary, such as the Night Bazaar. It’s also noted for its impeccable cleanliness and spacious dormitories.

S*Trips The Poshtel is one of our favourites in Chiang Mai but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

The first day in Chiang Mai is all about getting to know the key attractions that you’ll find in Old City! Thailand is famous for its stunning temples – you can literally feast your eyes on every single one of them! It’s a great way to start your 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary. To round the day off, you’ll dine on local Thai cuisine while bargaining like a local in the bazaar!

Every map that you see in this article includes a hyperlink to an interactive version on Google Driving. After clicking the map image, the interactive version will be opened in a new tab.

9:00 AM – Elephant Nature Park

Elephants have long called Thailand home but in recent years they have been under threat from tourism, habitat loss, logging and poaching. Elephants may seem strong but riding them can actually harm them. Thanks to Elephant Nature Park , tourists can now interact with the iconic Thai elephants in a more ethical way!

The 250-acre grounds are home to around 70 rescued elephants which you can mingle with as they go about their daily lives. This is the perfect way to start your Chiang Mai itinerary! The short park visit includes transport to and from your hotel, the opportunity to feed the elephants (if they want to eat) and to enjoy the sight of them mucking around in the river! Note that none of the tours are the same as the park lets the elephants decide what they want to do. If they feel like sleeping during the day, that’s all you’ll get to see. No animal is forced to do anything or to entertain the crowds.

Make sure to bring some water and a hat – the sun can get quite harsh around noon-time. Wearing closed and comfortable shoes is also recommended since you’ll  be in your feet quite a lot. The tour stops around 3pm, but with the hotel drop off, you can keep exploring the city without a problem.

• Cost  – around $81
• How long should I stay here?  5-6 hours
• Getting there –   Pick up and Drop off at your hotel

4:00 PM – Wat Phra Singh

Wat Phra Singh is the largest temple in Chiang Mai and an absolute must on your 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary! There are three main structures in the temple complex that you should visit.

Viharn Lai Kam is the temple’s assembly hall. It was originally constructed all the way back in 1345 and is the epitome of Lanna-style building. Be sure to admire the roof which was designed in the shape of wings! Inside, it’s beautifully decorated with wooden carvings and stucco. The highlight, though, is the statue of Phra Singh, the Lion Buddha. If you’re lucky enough to be in Chiang Mai for the Songkran festival, it is this Buddha that is processed around the city!

Viharn Luang is the larger assembly hall at the temple, though it’s less ornate than Viharn Lai Kam. It’s home to a magnificent image of Buddha cast in gold during the 15th century!

Finally, Haw Trai is the temple’s library. It’s a beautiful stone structure that houses Buddhist scriptures.

Insider Tip:  Most temples have a fairly strict dress code which includes covered shoulders and knees. The feet are considered dirty in Buddhism so make sure to leave your shoes (your material feet, as it were) in the dedicated spot at the temple entrance.

• Cost  – $1 USD
• How long should I stay here?  1 hour
• Getting there –   Wat Phra Singh has its own public transport station.

5:00 PM – Wat Phan Tao

Once a palace, this pretty structure is now one of the most beautiful sites on any Chiang Mai itinerary! This unusual temple in was built of specially-molded teak panels that were fit tightly together, supported by teak pillars. Look up as you enter: the three-tiered roof features gilded snake tails and there’s a spectacular gilt carving of a peacock above the entrance!

Inside, you’ll find a  dhamma , a wooden casket that holds Buddhist scriptures written on palm leaves. Some of these precious documents are on display. You’ll also find a  busbok , a tall, ornate box for images of the Buddha. Also, be sure to admire the golden sitting Buddha!

If you find yourself getting hungry and craving lunch, Khaow Tom Restaurant is nearby and a locals favorite. Serving mouth-watering Asian cuisine, you can charge some energy for the rest of the day!

• Cost  – Free
• Getting there –   You can easily walk through Old Town

6:00 PM – Wat Chedi Luang

Most of Chiang Mai’s temples are gold and meant to be admired in direct sunlight but not Wat Chedi Luang! This ancient temple is best viewed at night when lanterns and candles breathe magic into the atmosphere, so head here around dinnertime!

Wat Chedi Luang isn’t as majestic as Wat Phra Singh but it has an atmosphere that isn’t easily beaten! It’s a partially ruined, tall and imposing structure that is a testament to Chiang Mai’s long and glorious past. It was built in the 14th and 15th centuries with a pagoda rising 80 meters high! Over time, the height diminished to 60 meters but Wat Chedi Luang remains one of the most impressive Chiang Mai landmarks!

The main sanctuary is home to the Phra Chao Attarot who is surrounded by his disciples. At the end of the complex is a large reclining Buddha and an even bigger seated Buddha.

Another highlight is the Lak Meuang. It’s a decorative pillar that was constructed at the founding of Chiang Mai in 1296. Unfortunately, it can only be viewed by men. If you’re lucky enough to fall under this category, be sure to put this experience on your 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary.

Insider Tip:  One of the most original experiences you can have on a weekend in Chiang Mai is talk with a Buddhist monk! Wat Chedi Luang is the perfect spot to do so. Monks congregate on the northern side of the temple grounds so that they can talk about Buddhism with visitors! They’re there between 9:00 and 18:00.

• Getting there –   You can easily walk through Old Town

7:30 PM – Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Now that you’ve made some epic memories touring the Old Town and have gotten to know more about the city, it’s time to start finding the perfect mementoes for your 3-day stay in Chiang Mai! You’ll find a mind-blowing variety of goods on offer at the Night Bazaar and the vibrant ambience is so infectious that it’s worth a visit even if you’re not buying!

Night Bazaar has many different goods on sale, from knock-offs to antiques, but it’s the ideal place to visit in Chiang Mai to purchase traditional Thai crafts. Soft Thai silks and carved wooden items are the most popular souvenirs but don’t overlook the bamboo rice boxes, silver jewellery, and handmade soaps and candles

Bargaining is key to getting a good price and is an expected norm in the market. However, the prices are generally quite low anyway. Negotiate with a friendly smile and have the exact amount you settle on at hand.

Insider Tip:  Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is great but if you’re here on a weekend in Chiang Mai, you may want to switch it for the Saturday or Sunday Night Walking Street. Both of these markets consist of vendors lining the street and crowds of people shopping and eating. It’s quite hectic but it is a famous Chiang Mai attraction!

• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours
• Getting there –   Taxi/Grab or Walk through Old Town

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

With 2 days in Chiang Mai, it’s time to look behind the stunning landmarks and get to know the history and culture that built them! There’s more to Thailand than just street food and temples (although that worth a visit alone!). History lovers will enjoy this day especially. Take notice that the last stop today is a bit further from the city centre. Make sure you wear comfy shoes, as you’ll be walking around quite a lot.

9:00 AM – Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center

Right in the middle of Old City, you’ll find this excellent museum in the old provincial government hall. This beautiful Art Deco building is certainly a great place to start the second day.

The monument in front of the center is the Three Kings Monument. King Mengra, the founder of Chiang Mai, stands with his friends (also kings) who were involved in the layout of Chiang Mai. It’s quite an iconic image that comes in various forms across the city.

The exhibitions are dedicated to fostering an understanding of Chiang Mai’s history in visitors and a sense of local pride. The front section focuses on Chiang Mai through the ages, using multimedia to tell the city’s rich history. The back section of the museum hosts temporary events and exhibitions in the hope of preserving the area’s culture. There’s a replica of a traditional Lanna village and a Thai temple. You’ll also find a quaint souvenir shop in this area!

• Cost  – $3 or $6 USD (depends on ticket)
• How long should I stay here?  2 hours
• Getting there –   Walk through Old Town or grab a Taxi

11:00 AM – Chiang Mai National Museum

There’s no doubt that the city’s National Museum is one of the most underrated places to visit in Chiang Mai: few people wonder what to do in Chiang Mai and think of this little gem! Luckily for you, we can highly recommend it!

The Chiang Mai National Museum is the perfect continuation of the trip down history lane that the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center would’ve started! It’s small and quiet so the exhibitions tend to make quite an impact.

First, you’ll be introduced to the Lua and Hari Phunchai people. The latter founded the first known kingdom in northern Thailand. Then comes the famed Lanna Kingdom. It’s presented through a beautiful selection of archaeological artefacts from everyday objects to magnificent Buddha statues!

Chiang Mai was once part of the independent Kingdom of Chiang Mai. This kingdom’s close relationship with Siam is also presented in an exhibition, with a particular emphasis on their artistic developments.

Many of the artifacts in the museum are also works of art so it’s sure to be one of the most breathtaking experiences on your Chiang Mai itinerary!

• Cost  – $3 or $6 (depends on ticket)
• Getting there –   Right next to the Arts Centre

1:30 PM – Wat Umong

With 2 days in Chiang Mai, you’ll have time to visit a few more temples. Wat Umong is often known as the Hidden Temple as not many tourists find it in the jungle outside of Chiang Mai.

Wat Umong was founded in 1297, just a year after Chiang Mai was established. Its architecture is characterized by the use of tunnels. At the end of each tunnel is a Buddha or another symbol. The tunnels are designed so that external sounds are minimized, creating a hushed and deeply spiritual atmosphere.

In the temple grounds is a collection of Buddha statues, many of which are disfigured. It creates an other-worldly environment for a peaceful stroll in the forest. Keep an eye out for wooden plates bearing Buddhist proverbs in English and Thai! On the edge of the grounds is a small lake and you can reach the island by crossing a bridge.

Insider Tip:  Combine your visit to Wat Umong with a visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. You can take a tuk-tuk or songthaew to reach the site which is about four kilometers outside of Chiang Mai. Get your driver to wait for you as not many vehicles stop here.  If you’re here on a Sunday between 15:00 and 18:00, join one of the talks in the Chinese Pavilion about Buddhism.

• Cost  – Free!
• How long should I stay here?  30min – 1 hour
• Getting there –   Easy to reach by Taxi

3:00 PM – Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

By now, you’ll have seen your fair share of temples and may even be feeling a bit “templed out”. Bear with us, though, because we’ve saved the best for last!

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was founded in 1383 to house a fragment of the historical Buddha’s shoulder bone. The original bone was brought by a monk to Lanna where it broke into two pieces. One was enshrined at Wat Suan Dok, while the other was tied to a sacred white elephant who wandered the jungle. The spot on which the elephant died was the spot chosen to house this bone shard: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

Visitors need to ascend 306 steps to get to the temple. The long route is meant to help devotees gain Buddhist merit but if that doesn’t appeal to you, there is a funicular alternative.

On top of the stairs is a statue of the legendary elephant that picked the temple’s location. There are also various shrines and other monuments.

The temple itself is split into an inner and an outer terrace. The inner terrace houses the sacred relic of the Buddha. There’s a walkway around the golden  Chedi  in which the relic sits.

Try to get here just before sunset. The monks will gather for prayers and the panoramic view of Chiang Mai becomes even prettier in the fading light!

• Cost  – $2 USD
• Getting there –   Grab a Tuk Tuk

4:00 PM San Kamphaeng Road

Make sure you’re wearing comfy shoes when you arrive at San Kamphaeng Road because there are loads of villages and factories on this Chiang Mai walking tour!

San Kamphaeng Road is the best place in Chiang Mai to buy Thai silk which is often considered to be the best in the world. Try Shinawatra Thai Silk , the oldest silk factory in Thailand.

Continuing a 600-year-old tradition are the potters of San Kamphaeng. You can visit the ancient Lanna kilns in the area before watching the modern masters. Chiang Mai’s potters are very skilled at Celadon, very fine, greenish ceramics. Baan Celadon is the best place to see the artists at work.

Bo Sang Handicraft Center really deserves its place on your 3-day itinerary in Chiang Mai! Its principal craft is traditional umbrellas. These colorful items can be seen all over Chiang Mai and are made of Bamboo frames and Saa paper (which comes from local tree bark). The artists then hand paint various motifs onto the umbrellas, meaning that each umbrella is a unique, useful product! You can both watch the crafting process and buy the finished product at Bo Sang Handicraft Center.

You can also find brilliant silverwork and woodwork in San Kamphaeng Road. Whether you’re buying or not, don’t miss out on this excellent attraction. Just being able to watch traditional art in the making means San Kamphaeng Road is one of the most unique  places to visit in Chiang Mai !

• How long should I stay here?  1-3 hours
• Getting there –   Taxi or Tuk Tuk

By the time we reach day 3, we will have already seen a lot. It might be the case that you want to have a chill day and not do so much. Feel free to cut out a few parts of this particular itinerary and then save the rest when planning your next trip to Chiang Mai!

8:30 AM – Lanna Folklife Museum

Lanna Folklife Museum doesn’t have as many historical items as the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center or the Chiang Mai National Museum but it does do a splendid job of personalizing the Lanna people’s glorious history!

Detailed images of daily life are recreated through the use of wax dolls and reconstructions. For example, there’s a trio of wax dolls playing music, while a life-size loom allows you up close to Lanna arts!

It’s a great spot to spend some time if you’re travelling with kids. Learning about Chiang Mai’s culture and the history behind it might not be everyone’s favorite thing, but it sure is interesting and informative.

• Cost : $3 or $6 (depending on ticket)
• How long should I stay here?  Max 1 hour
• Getting there  – If you’re staying in the Old City, you can walk here.

10:00 AM – Bhubing Palace

Bhubing Palace is as visited by locals as by tourists due to its spectacular gardens! No visit would be complete without a garden stroll but the buildings themselves are also quite interesting!

Phra Tamnak Bhubing Rajanives is the main building of the palace complex. The upper level is home to the royal family, while the lower level is reserved for their entourage.

There are a number of other residences in the palace complex, such as Ruen Peek Ma (Log Cabin) which is inhabited by a royal princess. Ruen Rab Rong is a royal guesthouse built in the modern Thai style.

In the gardens, make sure to admire the palace’s famed rose garden. It’s also worth visiting the water reservoir which doubles as a fountain. The music playing in the background was composed by the former king himself!

Insider Tip:  Much like the temples, Bhubing Palace has a strict dress code. Your shoulders should be covered (but not with a scarf) and your bottoms should fall below your mid-calf. You should also keep your voice down!

• Cost : $2 USD
• How long should I stay here?  30min
• Getting there  – By taxi as it’s quite a way to travel…

12:00 AM – Mae Ping River

Riverside, as the area on the banks of Mae Ping is known, is considered to be the most relaxed part of Chiang Mai. It’s home to several luxury resorts, shops, markets and stunning views!

We suggest you set aside a few hours for a chilled walk around the area. You could choose to visit Warorot Market, a fruit market that also hosts stalls selling street food and other goods. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll around the area’s many shops and cafes.

We highly recommend having lunch at one of the riverside restaurants. The Good View Bar & Restaurant is one of the most famed establishments on any Chiang Mai itinerary — and with good reason! Sit down outside, right beside the river, to soak up the eponymous views while dining on classic Thai dishes like deep-fried shrimp.

Of course, you should definitely go on a boat ride along the lovely Ping River. It’s a humbling experience to see how the riverbank changes from bustling city to tranquil farmland.

• How long should I stay here?  Anything between 1-3 hours
• Getting there  – Take a Tuk Tuk and enjoy the view!

3:00 PM – Thai Massage

Thai massage is unique in that it doesn’t involve oil being massaged onto bare skin. You’re given a set of loose clothes to change into and the treatment revolves around pressing down on your muscles firmly and stretching them gently.

The Women’s Correctional Institute is a good place to try out a traditional Thai massage. There’s no need to worry about safety as there are guards on duty and all the inmates are trained for 6 months in Thai massage.

If you’d like to support the women but would feel more comfortable with ex-inmates, then try Lila Thai Massage . The company provides jobs to many former prisoners who trained with the Women’s Correctional Institute. It’s not a luxury spa but the services are top-notch!

• Cost : No set price
• Getting there  – You’l find massage places everywhere, so either walk or take a taxi.

4:30 PM – Terracotta Garden

Hidden from the city by a decorative wall, the Terracotta Garden is sort of place you either look for or just happen to stumble upon! Stepping into the walled garden is like reaching an oasis: all around you, you’ll see shamrock-green leaves spilling out between larger-than-life Buddha-style statues.

The collection of ornate pots, wall hangings and statues is breathtaking. We recommend that you pull out a chair and place an order with the small cafe for drinks while you meander leisurely around the garden. Don’t worry if it rains; the cafe is entirely enclosed by glass so you can still feel like you’re in the garden while remaining dry inside!

The Terracotta Garden is actually a showroom for Baan Phor Liang Muen, a well-established terracotta shop. The items on show are all handmade by local artists, so they are on sale, although that’s not the main reason to visit.

Insider Tip:  If you’d like to learn a bit about pottery, why not do so at the Terracotta Garden? Call ahead of time to arrange a pottery workshop in the garden with a local artist!

• Cost : Free
• How long should I stay here?  Only as a stroll around
• Getting there  – As your Taxi driver to drop you off

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Chiang Mai

The Old City is often the cheapest place to stay in Chiang Mai, with a plethora of backpackers’ hostels and budget guesthouses making it one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai for broke backpackers.

• Admire one of the city’s few remaining wooden buildings at the old monastery of Wat Phan Tao.
• Stroll around the outer defensive walls and enter the city through Thapae Gate.
• Go offbeat at the Thai Coin Museum and Mengrai Kilns.

Try to spend as long as possible in the city. There are just so many amazing attractions to visit that 3 days in Chiang Mai will pass by in a whirlwind! If you can, try to stay a little bit longer and visit even more awesome hotspots. We’ve listed a couple more of our favorites down below. Note that these are in no particular order.

1. Chiang Mai Gate Market

This market has the most awesome food stalls in Chiang Mai and perhaps even all of Thailand. The market is held most nights of the week, but weeknights are the most popular. There are fewer vendors on weekend nights, so make sure you go when you can enjoy everything this market can offer.

It’s a great spot to end the day or even squeeze into day 1 or 2. If your stomach can take it, try out the local dishes and things you normally wouldn’t eat (I’d recommend fried insects as a little snack!).

Eat lightly throughout the day and prepare yourself for a night blowout. And once you’re there, your mouth will be watering from all the different smells and spices in the air. If you’re not into insects, there are other popular dishes like mango sticky rice, smoothies, and pad kra pow, which is a spicy meat and basil dish.

• Cost  – Depends on your hunger>
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours.
• Getting there  – Taxi, Grab or Tuk Tuk

2. Wat Umong

There are a lot of temples and shrines in Thailand. In fact, when you’re looking for the most interesting places to visit in Chiang Mai, you’ll find that most of them are temples. But these shrines are a little different because they’re nestled underground, attached to a network of tunnels that were once used by a king and a Chiang Mai monk who preferred to pray underground.

This site was first abandoned in the 15th century but fortunately, it wasn’t eaten by the forest. It’s now open to the local Buddhist monks as well as curious travelers.

The tunnels are located a few miles out of town, so you’ll need to get a motorbike or arrange other transport to get there.

Make sure that you book return transport too, or you might find it difficult to get back to your hotel. Once you’re there, explore the tunnels and the surrounding forest as well. You’ll find numerous Buddhist shrines, statues, and signs all over the area. And the hunt is partly what makes this one of the most enthralling points of interest in Chiang Mai.

• Cost : $2-3
• How long should I stay here?  1 hour  
• Getting there  – Taxi if you don’t have a motorbike.

3. Wualai Walking Street

If you’re into shopping, but big crowds irritate you, this is the perfect spot for your Chiang Mai itinerary. Fewer tourists visit this walking street but that doesn’t mean there are less things to see.

If you want a fun and lively market that isn’t as packed as the rest, then show up on Wualai for the Saturday market. It opens in the later afternoon and runs until late.

It’s a little smaller, which is why you won’t have to fight your way through the crowds. It’s also more like a strolling market, where you’ll find a good array of goods and food stalls without the claustrophobic crush of other markets in the city. It’s known for its peaceful atmosphere, without any rush or hectic. If you’re in Chiang Mai over the weekend, it’s definitely a cool spot to check out.

• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours is plenty enough  
• Getting there  – Get a Taxi or Tuk Tuk to drop you off where the street starts.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

You can generally categorize Chiang Mai’s climate into three seasons. It’s rainy season from May to October. November to February is winter, while March to April is summer. Summer may sound like a good time to travel to Chiang Mai but it’s also burning season. During this time, farmers in the surrounding countryside burn the remainder of their harvest. This causes extensive smog which often obscures the mountain ranges around Chiang Mai and causes pollution in the city.

In terms of planning your trip, it doesn’t really matter when you visit exactly. With the exception of the burning season, Chiang Mai is generally a great destination year-round as every season brings its advantages. The best time to visit Chiang Mai tends to be in the shoulder season. June and October are both good times to enjoy pleasant weather.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – nothing beats having a motorbike when visiting Chiang Mai. As long as you’re comfortable on a bike and can handle the slightly intense Thai driving style, having a scooter will make your life much easier. There are rental shops on every corner in Chiang Mai, with most offering daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Make sure you check your bike (even take photos of its condition before you head off) and ask for a helmet.

Those not comfortable on a bike will have to get by on public transportation. There’s no metro system in Chiang Mai, but there are a ton of bus routes and the ubiquitous songthaew . These color-coded pickup trucks go just about everywhere in the city but can be a bit confusing. If you’re looking to do Chiang Mai on the cheap, the songthaew are definitely the way to go.

Taxis will always get you from A to B in the safest way possible (the Thai idea of “safe”) but haggling for a fair price can sometimes be a pain in the a*s. If you can, rent a personal driver while you’re in Chiang Mai or use Grab. Grab is the cheapest and most efficient way to get around, but if you’re travelling in a large group it can sometimes be a bit of a struggle to find a transport big enough or get everyone on the back of a bike.

Obviously your trip starts with packing your bag. make sure to have a pair of comfortable shoes with you (you’ll be walking a lot), a hat and sunscreen – the Thai sun can get quite harsh around noon time. Be sure to tick off all of the essentials on your Thailand Packing List before you start your travels so your Chiang Mai experience will be a success.

While there are certain things to watch out for in the city, worries about safety in Chiang Mai certainly shouldn’t stop you from planning a trip to Chiang Mai!

Avoid drugs when backpacking in Thailand . As chilled out as Chiang Mai is, Thailand is very strict when it comes to drug use and there’s no exception when it comes to foreigners. Stay clear, then, because the lightest sentence is a $2000 USD fine!

A common scam occurs with tuk-tuk drivers who offer tourists free rides, take them to gem stores and forcefully encourage them to buy. If you feel uncomfortable, calling loudly for the tourist police tends to work well.

The biggest danger, however, comes from road accidents. Thailand is notorious for its large number of road accidents and foreigners trying out the seemingly cool motorbike are often involved. Only hire a motorbike if you’re experienced with riding one and always wear a helmet. In fact, many backpackers are killed each year in motor accidents while driving in Thailand, so, please, follow the travel advice and warnings, respect the road, and stay safe!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Chiang Mai

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Chiang Mai itinerary.

How many days should you need in Chiang Mai?

Four or five nights should be enough to explore the city and beyond.

What are some cool things to do in Chiang Mai at night?

The night bazaar is an awesome way to spend the evening, buy some cool souvenirs and grab some local food. Chiang Mai also has some great pubs too.

What are the best free things to do in Chiang Mai?

Many of the temples the city is famous for are free or cheap to visit, one you can’t miss that won’t cost a penny is Wat Phan Tao.

What are some fun things to do in Chiang Mai with family?

The whole family will love a day looking after elephants in the ethical Elephant Nature Park.

With rivers, mountains and jungle just outside of the city, Chiang Mai offers visitors access to a world of adventure and breathtaking natural landscapes! The city itself, however, isn’t outshone by these natural wonders: colorful markets, intricate artwork and stunning temples can be found on almost every corner in Chiang Mai.

This incredible combination of nature and culture makes Chiang Mai a winning destination that’s best seen with our expert 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary! From finding you the best place to stay in Chiang Mai to knowing the nearest quality eatery for an impromptu snack, we’ve got all the practical advice you need to make the most out of your trip!

There certainly is a lot to see in, and outside the city: whether it’s gilded Buddhas, royal roses or woven silks, you’ll find it all on our epic 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary!

Have you been to Chiang Mai before? Let us know your experience in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Clair Cathryn

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The Ultimate Itinerary: Chiang Mai in 4 Days

The ancient capital of Chiang Mai perfectly illustrates the spectrum of what makes Thailand so great. Spectacular natural landscapes and undeniable spirituality live hand in hand alongside vicious martial arts and vibrant red-light districts.

There’s little wonder that so many ex-pats lay their foundations in this city! Though as much as we’d all love to spend months exploring this fascinating region of the world, few of us have that luxury! So, in that case, let me show you the perfect itinerary for exploring the spiritual haven of Chiang Mai!

Table of Contents

Time to hit the road running and start your first day with some of Thailand’s biggest cultural icons. You best get up early for this one!

Visit an Elephant Sanctuary

There are a few symbols as iconic to Thailand as this one! These wonderful gentle giants gather visitors from all across the world who come to spend time in their company. It’s almost become a right of passage for travellers in Thailand, and they’ll undoubtedly form some incredible lasting memories!

Thankfully, in recent years the public has become more aware of the ethical practices relating to these animals. The Elephant Rescue Park on the far outskirts of Chiang Mai is one of these spectacular sanctuaries that go out of their way to take care of these poor creatures! As the name suggests, the sanctuary saves elephants from abusive industries and provides them with a safe place to live and the care they need.

You’ll be able to feed them, give them medicine, and even get the chance to clean them! What’s more, tourist cash goes a long way to provide these poor animals with what they need.

King Cobra Farm

Thailand is home to yet another iconic animal, though this has far more of a bite to it! There are over 200 species of snakes slithering their way through these lands, so why not get up close and personal with some of them?

The King Cobra Farm has become an iconic stop for visitors travelling through Mae Rim and was even featured in the latest Rambo movie! The little roadside attraction has a large collection of reptiles, from the deadly Thai cobra to giant iguanas and snappy scorpions.

You’ll be personally guided through the compound by one of the snake handlers who will take you through each paddock to introduce you to the animals. You might even be allowed to hold a few of them, the non-venomous ones of course! At the end of the tour, you’ll be treated to a short, exhilarating demonstration with the snakes!

Mae Sa Waterfall

The landscapes of Northern Thailand consist of rolling mountain ranges and deep valleys, amongst which there are plenty of treats to be found. That includes shampoo-commercial worthy waterfalls which are scattered throughout. Down the road from the King Cobra Farm is one of the very best, Mae Sa.

The 10-storeyed waterfall cascades its way through the outskirts of Doi Suthep Pui National Park ( we’ll explore more of that tomorrow! ) Flowing for miles upon miles, it gathers tourists from across the region who come to beat the heat in its refreshing streams.

Baan Tong Luang Eco-agricultural Village (Karen Long Neck Tribe)

The Northern hills of Thailand have become a haven for some of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating tribes. While some escaped persecution from neighbouring Myanmar, others drifted here naturally from nearby countries. Of these tribes, one has become an iconic image recognised throughout the world, the Karen Long Neck Tribe.

The fascinating women of this tribe are renowned for the long brass coils they wear around their necks, giving them the appearance that they’ve been elongated! In reality, it’s just an optical illusion as the ladies’ shoulders have been deformed after years of ring-wearing.

To learn more about this fascinating culture, and where to find these tribal villages, check out The Ultimate Travel Plan: Visiting the Karen (Long Neck) Tribe !

Tribal villages are dotted around the provinces of Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son. Luckily for those visiting Chiang Mai, the village of Baan Tong Luang is along the road you’ll be following in Mae Rim! Though some find these places to be touristy, they’re one of the few ways that these tribes are able to make an income. Additionally, due to the recent pandemic, they need your support more than ever!

Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium

After a full day of exploring some of Thailand’s biggest cultural icons, time to finish your day with one of the more violent! The combat sport of Muay Thai ( as the name suggests ) was created right here in Thailand! So where better to experience the art form than in its spiritual home?

You can find a brutal, action-packed fight almost everywhere in Thailand! From neon-lit, televised stadiums to a bunch of plastic chairs and one too many beers, there are plenty of places to watch some sanctioned violence!

For your first night, there’s no better place to add to your itinerary than one of the premier venues in the country, Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium. Lucky for the bloodthirsty amongst you, fights take place there every day of the week!

Everything you need to know about the sport of Muay Thai in Thailand.

From where to watch a fight to where to train it yourself!

Click here!

From one action-packed day to the next. Once again, you’ll be spending your day on the outskirts of the city.

Wat Pha Lat

As this day will be all about the serenity and tranquillity of nature and spiritual houses, then it’s best to start off on the right foot.

At the base of Dui Pui mountain, Wat Pha Lat is a tiny little temple that’s slowly been reclaimed by the rainforests that surround it. You’ll find little crowds and escape the unwanted distractions of the city. Sitting beside a gorgeous waterfall and hidden beneath a thick canopy, it’s one of the hidden gems of Chiang Mai and earns a place on your itinerary!

Doi Suthep Trail

There are plenty of places around the Doi Suthep Pui National Park worth exploring, though sadly most of us won’t have the time to explore that much of it! In the interest of speed, there happens to be the perfect trail to give you a crash course in the park’s beauty!

Leading from the back of Wat Pha Lat, this serene little trail cuts through the lush rainforest while passing by some jaw-dropping waterfalls along the way. The short 30-minute trail also conveniently leads toward your next stop on your Chiang Mai itinerary!

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

To say that Chiang Mai has a thing for temples is an understatement! Though of the many hundreds found in and around the city, one is regarded above all others!

The crowning temple of Wat Phra Doi Suthep is by far one of Northern Thailand’s most sacred. Legend has it that a piece of Buddha’s shoulder bone was mounted on a white elephant ( a sacred symbol in Thailand ) who then climbed Doi Suthep before laying down and dying on the spot where the temple was later built.

The temple also holds yet another renowned piece, a replica of the Emerald Buddha, which is considered the holiest image in all of Thailand! On top of that, the stairway leading towards the temple is a worthy spot in itself!

Find out where the real Emerald Buddha is kept by reading The 15 Best Highlights To See In Bangkok !

Bhubing Palace

Thailand’s royalty knows a thing or two about luxury, and the Bhubing Palace goes to show just that! Built by the order of King Rama V in 1961 to be his Chiang Mai residence, it also became the royal guesthouse for prominent State visitors. Fortunately for us commoners, the lavish gardens and soothing grounds are open to the public.

Amongst the ancient gardens, a large placid reservoir surrounded by fresh landscapes and trickling fountains adds an air of opulence. You can also stop to pay homage to the Khru Ba Si Wichai Monument, dedicated to the man who constructed Phra That Doi Suthep.

Baan Doi Pui (Hmong Tribal Village)

The mountains of Northern Thailand are home to more than just the Karen Long Neck tribe, in fact, there are 7 different sub-groups of tribes scattered around the surrounding region. Of them, the Hmong Hill Tribe is the second largest in Thailand and makes up about 17% of the total hill tribe population.

Though you may have come across some members of this tribe in Baan Tong Luang, there’s a village solely dedicated to the Hmong tribe here on Doi Suthep. It’s a fascinating opportunity to learn about the different aspects of their culture through their musical instruments, traditional clothing and bamboo crafts.

Of course, these places are not exactly traditional and mostly centre around tourism. However once again, this is a vital source of income for these villagers, and an excellent crash course for visiting foreigners.

Everything you need to know about visiting the Long Neck tribe in the highlands of Thailand and why you should experience it.

Hmong Doi Pui Arts and Museum

Whilst still in the Hmong Tribal village, there’s the perfect place to learn more about their rich cultural history! Starting in 1984, this tiny museum decorated like a hill tribe house was started by monk Ying Wangwonnat as a place to sell Mong tools and antiques to visiting tourists. In later decades the place started to gather numerous items donated by the local villagers to be a source of knowledge, and viola, you have yourself a little museum!

You can learn more about the tribe’s origins in China and how they still maintain certain Chinese practices. Better yet, at the back of the museum, you can find out exactly what the tribe’s source of income once was in the form of a genuine opium poppy garden!! A pretty rare find these days.

According to locals, you haven’t really been to Chiang Mai until you’ve seen the views from Doi Suthep! Standing 12 km outside of the city centre, the majestic mountain gives a commanding view back towards Chiang Mai and its numerous upward stretching chedi.

This should mark the perfect end to your Doi Suthep adventure, and a great opportunity to sit back and enjoy the majestic views that the mountain ranges offer! You could head further along one of the many trails, or at this point, you can call it a day and make your way back down.

Night Bazaar

After a full day of exploring, you surely will have built up quite an appetite! Luckily, Chiang Mai has the perfect place to feed your hunger!

The night bazaar is a one-stop shop for all your consumer needs! Whether you’re after cheap clothes and dodgy tech or just a bite to eat, there’s a bit of everything on offer. You can even sit down and enjoy a local Muay Thai fight in the rinky-dink ring nearby!

The night air is full of chants of haggling, beer-swilling, face-punching excitement, and is a great place to top off another fabulous day in the city!

For our third day, we will be staying within the city limits. This day will mostly focus on some of the fascinating temples that surround the city.

As there’s such a high density of amazing sites, you’ll likely pass plenty of interesting things to see while making your way through the city. There are countless more spots that I could have added to this itinerary, but these are just some of the very best that old Chiang Mai has to offer!

Wat Suan Dok

Built in 1373 under the rule of King Keu Na of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Wat Suan Dok became his prime residence. In later years, the temple also became a place which welcomed visiting priests who would stay in the attached monastery.

The name of the temple translates to mean “ the field of flowers”, as it was once placed on a blossoming flower farm. These days the blooms of plant life have been replaced by a gorgeous collection of stupas, some of which contain the cremated remains of one of Chiang Mai’s previous rulers!

The courtyard also contains Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University. As the name might suggest, this place provides higher learning for local monks!

Tha Pae Gate

This crumbling landmark dating back to the 13th century Lanna Kingdom once acted as the city’s fortress. Along with the nearby moat and several large gates, it was a formidable obstacle for the invading Mongols and Burmese armies to overcome!

Today, Tha Pae Gate marks the boundaries of what used to be the “ Old City” of Chiang Mai. Its perimeters gather a congregation of hotels, bars, restaurants, cafes and massage parlours ( both cheeky and otherwise ).

Wat Phra Singh

Though there are a fair few temples in this itinerary, this is by far one of the most significant in Chiang Mai! This 14th-century temple is easily the city’s largest, and also comes with an attached monastery which permanently houses 700 monks!

Known as the Temple of the Lion Buddha, Wat Phra Sing is home to many decadent structures. These include the assembly hall which houses Phra Chao Thong Tip, a large copper and gold cast of the seated Buddha.

Though it doesn’t end there, as the temple’s most sacred shrine is the adjacent building. Within Phra Viharn Lai Kam is the iconic, though now sadly headless, figure known as the Phra Singh Buddha.

Everything you need to know about each temple in Taiwan!

Learn about everything from the detailed symbolism to how to pray like a local.

Wat Lok Moli

Now from one of Chiang Mai’s biggest temples to one of the oldest! This 500-year-old temple’s deceptively reserved appearance makes it all the more spiritual.

The temple’s fascinating stone pagoda cascades down in 3 tiers to a surrounding of lotus flowers and chakra arches to create a wonderous spiritual landmark. It’s certainly a beautiful sight! In fact, it’s classified as a masterpiece of ancient Lanna art!

Wat Chiang Man

Yet another beautiful temple with a fascinating royal history! Dating back to the 13th century, this temple acted as the residence of King Mengrai while the city of Chiang Mai was still being built!

The inner halls also hold a number of fascinating artefacts with a unique history! The sacred marble Phra Sila, which depicts a standing Buddha taming an elephant, originated from India while others debate it came from Sri Lanka. Either way, pretty fascinating!

There’s also a 10 cm-tall quartz crystal Phra Satang Man Buddha, which is believed to have been made around 200 CE! The figure is revered for its ability to protect the city from disasters.

Chiang Mai Women Correctional Institution Vocational Training Center

After 3 action-packed days of exploring every corner of Chiang Mai, your body must be in agony! So, what better way to relieve your tension than a good old-fashioned massage? Though here, they do it a little differently.

The Woman’s Prison in Chiang Mai runs various programs that allow soon-to-be-released women an opportunity to learn some useful skills which they’ll be able to use following their freedom. As such, current felons and ex-prisoner travel to a nearby massage parlour to practice their trade!

Though it may be difficult to relax in the circumstance, feel secure in the knowledge that these women are watched at all times! What’s more, this is an important life-changing opportunity for them, so they can’t afford to break your neck!

Wat Chedi Luang

As pristine as many of the temples of Chiang Mai are, there really comes a beauty with one that’s been left in ruins! That’s the case with Wat Chedi Luang, a crumbling ancient structure in the heart of Old Chiang Mai.

Before an earthquake damaged a large portion of the temple in 1545, it was once home to the Emerald Buddha, which now stands in Wat Phra Kaew in  Bangkok . Following the capture of Chiang Mai from the Burmese a few years later, the temple was left to fall into the ruins that they are today.

To this day, the temple is still an active place of worship that attract countless monks daily. The courtyard also contains a smaller temple which has a shrine dedicated to Chiang Mai’s guardian spirit, Lak Muang. The temple stands below an enormous gum tree which, according to tradition, if it should fall, disaster will overtake the city.

Loi Kroh Boxing Stadium

Ding-ding!! Though you may have already watched some violent blood sports, I guarantee you’ve never experienced it quite like this! You’d be doing an injustice if you left out Loi Kroh Boxing Stadium from your Chiang Mai itinerary!

This won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, as the ring is in the heart of Chiang Mai’s red-light district. Observing men and women getting beaten half to death in the midst of lady bars ( if you know, you know) filled with scantily dressed women with a mission to flirt.

Regardless of your ethics, the combination of beer-fueled, neon-lit, last days of Rome vibe makes it such an exciting experience!

For your final day, we’ll take things a little easier and end your Chiang Mai itinerary with some serene relaxation!

Warorot Market

Though night bazaars are most definitely worth your time, seeing local markets in the early hours of the morning is a whole different beast. Of the many places to check out, Warorot Market is by far the mightiest!

This is  the  local market where the prices are kept much lower compared to the tourist spots. Here you’ll be able to find everything from local produce to clothing and souvenirs! The outskirts of the markets also have a myriad of handicraft goods made by the local Hill Tribes which are also much cheaper compared to anywhere else.

Many are too afraid to try some street food in case they get sick!

Well here are a few tips for eating street food!

Mae Ping River

Running adjacent to the former eastern wall of the city, the Ping River separates Chiang Mai’s west from the little-visited eastern side. Though it’s glorious just to sit next to the gentle running water, there’s the best way to experience it is by cruising along it!

Along the river cruise, you’ll pass fishermen going about their day and get the opportunity to explore traditional local villages. A great change of pace and an opportunity to get in tune with the surrounding landscape.

Wiang Kum Kam

Though you might be templed-out by now, there’s one more worth visiting for good measure! About 5 km south of Chiang Mai are the wondrous archaeological sites of Wiang Kum Kam. This ancient city dates back to the 8 th  century Haripunchai Kingdom, and would later serve as the capital of the then Lanna Kingdom for a short while until it was replaced by Chiang Mai in 1296.

Though the site has some gorgeous modern halls, the main attraction is the ruins that were left behind! Some of the greatest discoveries in the area include stone tablets with Mon inscriptions, Buddhist sculptures, architecture, and pottery.

Bo Sang Village

Though you’ve come across some fascinating villages on this trip, time for one with a bit more of a curious twist! About 9 km outside of the Old City, the village of Bo Sang has a unique speciality. The village is renowned for the outstanding umbrellas they hand-craft from sa paper, which is made from the bark of mulberry trees.

The village acts as a wonderful production line that plays a role in everything from creating umbrellas to selling them in mass. You’ll find everything from hand-painted parasols for gardens to tiny cocktail umbrellas. Though most traditionally have floral patterns, the designs have evolved with time to include depictions of Chiang Mai’s rural scenery and even abstract patterns.

San Kamphaeng Hot Springs

Whilst sweating your balls off in 40°C weather, stepping into the toasty waters of a hot spring might be the last thing on your mind! Though after days of hiking and aching calves, its the perfect way to soothe those sore muscles of yours!

Nestled within the forest deep in the countryside are the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. These iconic mineral baths are famous for the streams of boiling water that they shoot from the ground below! The highly sulfuric spring water is also believed to have curative powers. A perfect way to end your Chiang Mai itinerary.

Thank You for Reading! Check Out These Other Helpful Links!

Thank you so much for reading The Ultimate Itinerary: Chiang Mai in 4 Days! Now check out these other helpful articles!

• The Ultimate Travel Plan: Visiting the Karen (Long Neck) Tribe
• The 20 Best Highlights To See In Chiang Mai
• The Ultimate Guide to Muay Thai in Thailand
• The 15 Best Highlights To See In Bangkok

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Home » Blog3 » Travel Destinations » Asia Destinations » Travel Thailand

Chiang Mai Itinerary: 4 (Or More) Amazing Days in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of those bucket list-worthy destinations that is worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. The largest city in Northern Thailand, the area is filled with over 300 stunning Buddhist temples . In fact, Chiang Mai has more temples than any other city in Thailand.

The oldest part of Chiang Mai is surrounded by a moat and fortifications that are over 700 years old. Inside the old city, visitors find a bustling city filled with vibrant markets, amazing food, and classic Northern Thai-style architecture. These gorgeous buildings harken back to the city’s roots as the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom.

One of the best things about Chiang Mai is its location. The city is based in a mountainous region that makes it a perfect place from which to go on various Chiang Mai hikes or see an elephant at one of the many Chiang Mai elephant sanctuaries .

An elephant wanders the jungle at Into the Wild Elephant Camp

My husband Daniel and I recently spent a couple of months exploring Chiang Mai and going on day trips to the surrounding area. Since most people can’t spend that long in this fabulous city, I put together a comprehensive Chiang Mai itinerary with all the best things to see in Chiang Mai .

Keep in mind that this is only meant to serve as a guide for you to build upon when planning your trip. If hiking isn’t your thing, skip the hike up the Monk’s Trail and take a cooking class instead!

Note: some of the best Chiang Mai markets are only open one night per week, such as the Chiang Mai Sunday market . You may have to shift the itinerary below based on your arrival date.

Outside of a home in Chiang Mai

Table of Contents

Itinerary for Chiang Mai At-A-Glance

• First Day: wander the old city and visit some important temples and monuments. Then end the day at LamChang Walking Street (Fridays only).
• Second Day: tour an ethical elephant sanctuary on a day trip. Then spend the evening at the Saturday Night Market.
• Third Day: go shopping at some of Chiang Mai’s local markets and visit some additional temples. End the day at the Sunday Night Walking Street.
• Fourth Day: explore nearby Doi Suthep National Park by hiking the Monk’s Trail and visiting Doi Suthep temple. You can also visit Bhubing Palace gardens. End the day with some delicious street food at the Chang Phuak Gate Night Market.
• Additional Days: visit additional markets and temples, take a cooking class, get a message, see a Muay Thai fight, go zip-lining, go jungle trekking, get a sak yant tattoo , visit Doi Inthanon National Park.

Wat Pha Lat Temple

Chiang Mai Itinerary Map

The following map includes all the locations discussed in this Chiang Mai itinerary. Before heading to Chiang Mai, refer to the Preparation section at the end for this article for tips on how to plan for your trip!

Day One: Exploring Chiang Mai’s Old City

On the first day of your Chiang Mai itinerary, spend the day wandering around the heart of Chiang Mai in the old city. Today’s highlights include visiting some of the city’s most important temples and landmarks along with a Michelin-recognized restaurant for lunch.

Afterwards, spend the evening wandering the small Lamchang Walking Street (which only takes place on Friday nights).

Wat Chedi Luang

• Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Location: 103 Prapokkloa Road

Wat Chedi Luang is the perfect place to begin your explorations of this historic city.

The temple’s name means “Temple of the Large Stupa” because it used to be the tallest building in the entire Lanna Kingdom. At the time of its construction in the 14th and 15th centuries, the chedi (a tall pyramid-like structure) used to rise over 80 meters (260 feet) tall.

Even though the upper portion of the structure collapsed in 1545, it still remains one of the tallest buildings in all of Chiang Mai.

The chedi features a large staircase on each side that leads to a niche with a Buddha image. One of these statues is a replica of the famed Emerald Buddha which used to reside at this temple (but was moved to Bangkok centuries ago). Be sure to check out the elephants at the base of the chedi on its south side.

Another smaller temple called Wat Phan Tao is located next door and is also worth a visit.

The niche on the south side of Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Phra Singh

• Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Location: in the heart of the old city at the intersection of Rachadamnoen and Samlarn Roads

After visiting Wat Chedi Luang, head east on Rachadamnoen Road towards the impressive Wat Phra Singh. One of Chiang Mai’s most important and popular temples, Wat Phra Singh dates back to the Mangrai dynasty in 1345.

The temple gets its name from a famous Buddha statue, the Phra Buddha Sihing, which resides at the temple complex.

Wat Phra Singh is one of the most eye-catching temples in the city as it’s chedi and several other buildings are covered in gold.

One of my favorite aspects of this temple is its surrounding gardens. There are lots of paths around the temple lined with trees and seats in the shade. The garden also features inspirational Buddhist sayings and a small cafe (when it’s open).

It’s a great place to sit and relax for a while and escape the heat.

One of the many Buddhist sayings in the gardens at Wat Phra Singh.

Lunch at SP Chicken

• Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (although I advise arriving no later than 1:30 pm before they run out)
• Location : 9/1 Samlan Road Soi 1

Located only a couple of blocks from Wat Phra Singh, SP Chicken is one of the city’s most sought-after lunch spots. A favorite with both locals and tourists alike, this Michelin-recognized eatery is famous for its melt-in-your-mouth rotisserie-style chicken.

Be aware that you may have to wait in line as this place is incredibly popular. During our first visit to Chiang Mai in 2017, Daniel and I waited in line only to watch the last chicken of the day being sold to the people in front of us. So on our next visit in 2021, we made a point to arrive a bit earlier in the day.

Three Kings Monument

• Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day
• Location: on Prapokkloa Road between Ratvithi and Intrawarorot Roads

After lunch, head to the famous Three Kings Monument in the center of the old city. The statue was constructed in 1984 and portrays the three founders of Chiang Mai: King Mangrai, King Ramkhamhaeng and King Ngam Muang.

The monument is located in the middle of a large square which is a pleasant place to sit a while and enjoy watching life go by. It is also located next to the Chiang Mai Cultural Center and the Lanna Folklife Museum should you like to learn more about Northern Thai cultural traditions.

Wat Chiang Man & Wat Lam Chang

• Opening Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Wat Chiang Man Location: 171 Ratchapakhinai Road
• Wat Lam Chang Location: Moon Muang Road Lane 7

Continue your Chiang Mai itinerary with a visit to the city’s oldest temple: Wat Chiang Man (also spelled Wat Chiang Mun). Located in the northeast corner of the old city, Wat Chiang Man was constructed in 1297 by King Mangrai (also spelled Mengrai).

My favorite part of this particular temple is the chedi in the back of the complex. Known as the elephant chedi, the structure features elephants all around the base that appear to be holding it up. The temple also has some nice gardens and shady areas to relax and to take a break.

Wat Chiang Man

If you haven’t had your fill of temples yet, head across the street and down one block to Wat Lam Chang. The name translates to “Temple of the Tethered Elephant” because elephants used to be housed here centuries ago.

Pro Tip: Continue through the temple and out the back entrance to the neighborhood behind for access to some nice cafes and restaurants. This is also the best way to reach the next destination: Lam Chang Walking Street.

Wat Lam Chang

Lam Chang Walking Street (Fridays)

• Opening hours: Every Friday night, 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
• Location: Along Ratvithi Alley from Ratvithi Road to Moon Muang Road Lane 7

The Lam Chang Walking Street (Kad Lam Chang) is a small neighborhood affair that runs through a colorful alley in the old city. Every Friday night, the street is closed to vehicle traffic and transforms into a bustling walking street .

Here, you can buy everything from clothes and knick-knacks to snacks and street food.

This is just a warm-up for the bigger Chiang Mai markets that take place later in the weekend. It has more of a local/neighborhood vibe and is a fun alternative if you want to skip the big crowds.

Lam Chang Walking Street

Day Two: Visit an Elephant Sanctuary

Visiting a Chiang Mai elephant sanctuary is one of the most rewarding activities you can do during a visit to Northern Thailand. Elephants are Thailand’s official animal and seeing one up close and in-person is a truly magical experience.

I missed out on visiting an elephant sanctuary during my first visit to Thailand and deeply regretted it. Although I made up for it on my next trip, I advise you not to make the same mistake and to prioritize this activity in your Chiang Mai itinerary.

Note: before purchasing your tickets to an elephant sanctuary, do some research first and learn about ethical elephant encounters . Avoid camps that offer rides to tourists.

Into the Wild Elephant Camp

Elephant Nature Park

• Opening Hours: varies depending on the tour
• Location: approximately 1.5 hours drive northwest of Chiang Mai

The most well-known and largest elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai, Elephant Nature Park (ENP) provides homes for distressed elephants from all over Thailand. Many of the animals in the park are disabled or are recovering from injuries sustained from abuse in the logging or tourism industries.

ENP not only provides a home for over 100 elephants on its property, it also works extensively with small family-run camps to help them transition to more ethical business models. The sanctuary also rescues dogs, cats, buffalo, and other animals as well.

Visits to Elephant Nature Park range in duration from a half-day trip (2,500 THB) to a 2-day sleepover (5,800 THB). Your ticket includes transportation to and from your lodging in Chiang Mai. Tickets to ENP often sell out weeks in advance, so be sure to book ahead.

If you can’t secure tickets to the main sanctuary, consider booking a visit to a smaller camp that is managed in cooperation with Elephant Nature Park. Into the Wild Elephant Camp is another good option if you’d like to visit a smaller facility.

This is Tilly, a rescued elephant at Elephant Nature Park

Saturday Night Walking Street or the Night Bazaar

• Opening hours: Every Saturday from 4:00 pm to 11:30 pm (TEMPORARILY CLOSED)
• Location: Wualai Road

If you’re not too exhausted after your day with elephants, head to the Chiang Mai South Gate for the Saturday Night Walking Street. Also known as Wualai Walking Street, the market travels the length of Wualai Street every Saturday Night.

Full Disclosure: this walking street was not open when I visited in January 2022 due to COVID. I hear that it is amazing though, and a less crowded option than Chiang Mai’s famous Sunday Night Market.

If the Saturday Market is closed, you can also consider the Night Bazaar . However, this was closed for the most part during my visit due to COVID. Hopefully both of these venues will be operational again soon.

If you’re after some nightlife , you can head to the intersection of Chang Klan and Loy Kroh roads where there are some lively bars. Just be aware of any COVID-related restrictions or curfews.

Day Three: Markets and Sunday Night Walking Street

On your third day in Chiang Mai, it’s time to go shopping!

Start your day east of the old city walls near the Ping River at the famous Warorot Market. The day includes stops at some other notable temples and lunch at a restaurant specializing in khao soi, a Northern Thai noodle soup.

Be sure to save plenty of time and energy for the main event of the day, the Sunday Night Walking Street.

Warorot Market (Kad Luang) & Riverside Flower Market (Ton Lamyai)

• Warorot Opening Hours: Every day from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Warorot Location: the city block bordered by Chang Moi Road, Wichayanon Road, Kuang Men Road and Lao Chou Alley.
• Flower Market Opening hours: Every day, 24 hours a day
• Flower Market Location: Intersection of Praisanee Road and Chang Moi Road

Warorot Market is a bustling 3-floor market located in a large building that spills into the streets outside. Also known as the Kad Luang , which means big market in Thai, the market sells a variety of local products and Northern Thai food such as Thai sausages and green pepper chile paste.

Warorot also sells various kinds of flowers, dried foods, souvenirs and an endless variety of clothing.

Outside the market, you can find fresh produce stalls on one side and an alley specializing in Chinese and Hmong local products and handicrafts on the other side.

Located one block away from the Warorot Market along the river, Ton Lamyai is a bustling market filled with blooms in every color. Here, you can find a bouquet of blossoms for your sweetie or a brightly colored garland to place at a Buddhist temple.

Warorot Market

Riverside Flower Market

Wat Mahawan

• Opening Hours: Open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Location: Intersection of Thapae Road and Thapae Road Soi 4

Wat Mahawan is a lesser-known temple a 10-minute’s walk from the Warorot Market near the Tha Pae Gate. I wandered into this temple by accident one day and was enchanted by the beautiful buildings and gardens.

Wat Mawahan

Lunch at Khao Soi Khun Yai

• Opening Hours: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, closed Sundays
• Location: Sri Poom 8 Alley

Khao Soi a traditional Northern Thai curry soup that you must try during your visit. While there are many restaurants serving this dish, Khao Soi Khun Yai is one of the best Khao Soi restaurants in Chiang Mai .

This particular restaurant is located inside of the old city walls near the north gate, so it’s a bit of a walk from Wat Mawahan. If you want to save your energy, I recommend grabbing a tuk tuk or calling a ride using Grab (a rideshare app similar to Uber).

Khao Soi from Khun Yai. Photo courtesy of The Wandering Hedonist.

Wat Lok Moli

• Location: 298/1 Manee Nopparat Rd

Wat Lok Moli is a gorgeous temple that is famous for housing the ashes of some members of the Mengrai dynasty . It is located a short walk from Khao Soi Khun Yai across the moat.

There are also a couple of other temples nearby that are worth a visit if you have the time: Wat Rajamontean and Wat Khuan Kharma.

Wat Rajamontean

Sunday Night Walking Street

• Opening hours: Sundays from 4:00 pm to 11:30 pm
• Location: Ratchadamnoen Road from Tha Pae Gate to the Wat Phra Singh Temple

And now for the main event of the day: the Chiang Mai Sunday Market !

The city’s biggest and most well-known market, this walking street market takes place every Sunday night in the center of Chiang Mai’s Old City on Ratchadamnoen Road.

This famous walking street features all kinds of homemade crafts and goods for sale by local Thai people. From silk shirts to sandals and baggy Thai pants, you can find all sorts of things for sale at the Chiang Mai Sunday Market .

Get there early to beat the crowds and be sure to come hungry if you like street food. There is no shortage of food vendors at the market which tend to be clustered together in makeshift food halls at various temples.

Chiang Mai Sunday Market

Vendor at the Chiang Mai Sunday Market

Day Four: Doi Suthep & Chang Phuak Night Market

Spend the last day of your Chiang Mai itinerary at nearby Doi Suthep National Park. Here, you will find perhaps the most important temple in Chiang Mai: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

While on Doi Suthep Mountain, you can also hike the Monk’s Trail to a secret jungle temple and visit Bhubing Palace gardens.

End your day at the Chang Phuak Night Market by sampling some incredible street food.

Hike the Monk’s Trail to Wat Pha Lat

• Trailhead location: Google Maps

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Chiang Mai, there’s no lovelier place than Wat Pha Lat (also spelled Wat Palad). This picturesque temple nestled in the jungle is a peaceful place to meditate and get away from it all.

The best way to access the temple is by hiking the Monk’s Trail. This easy 3 km (1.8 miles) trail winds through the jungle and follows a stream before reaching the temple partway up Doi Suthep mountain.

Wat Pha Lat

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

• Opening Hours: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Location: Th Huay Kaew, Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Ratchaworawihan is one of Northern Thailand’s most sacred temples and an important pilgrimage site for many Thai people.

The temple dates to the 14th century during the reign of King Kuena. According to legend, a monk found part of Buddha’s shoulder bone and brought it to the king. He placed the holy relic on the back of a white elephant and sent it into the jungle to look for a new home.

The elephant eventually climbed to the top of Doi Suthep mountain where it stopped and trumpeted three times. Then it died. This was interpreted as an omen and the opulent temple Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was established at that spot.

Bhubing Palace Gardens

• Opening Hours: Open daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (except on holidays
• Location: 1223 Sriwichai Alley, Tambon Su Thep

Bhubing Palace is a winter palace that is used by the royal family when they visit Chiang Mai. The extensive gardens are quite lovely and are open to the public whenever the royal family is not in residence.

I visited in January 2022 when all the flowers were in bloom and it was spectacular. Be aware that the same dress code for visiting temples apply at the palace.

Dinner at Chang Phuak Gate Night Market

• Opening hours: Every day from 6:00 pm until late
• Location: Intersection of Manee Nopparat Road and Changhuak Road at the Chang Phuak Gate

After spending the day on Doi Suthep Mountain, head to the Chang Phuak Gate Night Market for some amazing street food. Located on the opposite side of the moat from the North Gate, the market hosts a variety of food stalls selling everything from meat on a stick to Thai omelets.

One of the best-known vendors here is the Lady in the Cowboy Hat . She was featured in an episode of Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations television show when he visited Chiang Mai in 2014. She is best known for khao ka moo , a dish of stewed pork leg served over rice with a boiled egg and sour greens.

Lady in the Cowboy Hat’s food stall

Preparing for a Visit to Chiang Mai

While you can visit Chiang Mai any time of year, there are a few distinct seasons to be aware of.

Most visitors arrive in the dry season which typically lasts from October to March. Temperatures are coolest during the dry season and it’s not as rainy. There are also some important festivals during this time such as the Yee Ping lantern festival (Loi Krathong) in November, New Year’s Eve, and the Chinese New Year (which usually takes place in January or February).

Be aware that air quality tends to get poorer as the dry season progresses. Things take a turn for the worse during burning season , which typically happens in late February/early March. During this time farmers burn their fields to ready them for new crops and air quality is low.

The hot season takes place from April to June. Temperatures soar during these months so avoid strenuous activity int the middle of the day. Some national parks close during hot season, so check before you go. The Songkran Festival (Thai New Year) takes place during this time, in the month of April.

Rainy season (or monsoon season ) takes place from July to September. Most visitors avoid monsoon season, but some prefer it due to improved air quality and the lush green hue the jungle takes on due to the rains.

View of Chiang Mai from Wat Pha Lat on a hazy day in January. The city is barely visible due to poor air quality.

Etiquette for Visiting Temples

It’s hard to go very far in the city without running into one or more Chiang Mai temples .

Many temples are open to the public and you can typically enter as long as the doors and gates are open (in some cases you have to pay a small entrance fee first). But first, keep in mind a few basic rules of Thailand temple etiquette before entering.

First and foremost, remember that it is a place of worship and behave respectfully. Keep your voice down as you walk around the grounds and in the buildings. Be sure to remove your shoes any time you enter into a building or when you see a sign asking you to do so.

It’s also important to dress modestly. This means wearing pants or a skirt that covers your knees and a shirt with sleeves that covers your shoulders. Avoid showing too much skin or wearing clothing with images of the Buddha as this is considered disrespectful.

When you’re inside the temple, don’t turn your back to the Buddha statue or touch it. Taking photos is usually fine, but taking a selfie (or photos of the monks without their permission) is not. Women should not touch monks.

Pro tip: I always carry around a pair of Thai pants and a long-sleeved sun shirt in my pack when I’m in Chiang Mai. That way I can throw them on any time I happen to come across a temple that piques my interest.

Wandering the Wat Phra Singh gardens. I put on a pair of pants under my skirt before entering the complex to ensure my knees were covered.

What to Bring

Here’s a few ideas of what to bring along while you explore the city or surrounding area each day. This is not a complete list, but it will get you started as you think about what to pack.

• Sturdy walking shoes – While some people get by with flip-flops or sandals in Thailand, I wear sturdy walking shoes when I’m sightseeing. I prefer the Altra Timp trail running shoe both in the city and on the trail.
• Camera – I love taking photos and always bring a camera along. I use the Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III because it is lightweight yet has many advanced features.
• External battery – I always bring along an external battery & charging cord so I’m not left stranded in case my phone dies.
• Sun hat – Protect your face (and scalp) with a broad sun hat. This sun hat is great because it has a wide brim and no back so it doesn’t bump into my backpack. Or you could shop for a cute straw hat after you arrive in Thailand.
• Sunglasses & Sunscreen – Apply sunscreen before leaving your lodging and bring some along in case you need to reapply. I like these Banana Boat 1-oz tubes of sunscreen because they are super tiny and hardly take up any room in my bag.
• Water – Always buy bottled water in Thailand or refill your bottle from a trusted source that has been filtered.
• Temple clothing – Bring long pants/sarong covering your knees and a light long-sleeved shirt like this one for visiting temples.

Admiring the view from Doi Inthanon, the tallest mountain in Thailand and a nice day trip from Chiang Mai.

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Hi, i'm unicorn.

I am an avid hiker, traveler, and adventurer who is on the mission to explore hiking trails around the world.  I’m also obsessed with National Parks, long-distance trails and other outdoorsy things.

I hope to share this knowledge with you and inspire you to explore new hiking trails too!

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Hike the Monk’s Trail to Wat Pha Lat: Chiang Mai’s Jungle Temple

12 comments.

Thank you for sharing this. Sunday market is most definitely making it to my itinerary. I love roaming around in these streets…so much insights into the culture.

Thanks Anukrati! Sunday Market is definitely one of my favorite parts about visiting Chiang Mai!

Our family loved our time in Chiang Mai. The evening market was especially fun to wander through and find interesting mementos.

An amazing itinerary – Chiang Mai is one of the favorite cities in the world. It is so dynamic, so much to see and do and your itinerary covers to much. I just love it!!!

Thanks Paula!

I had no idea there were over 300 Buddhist temples in Thailand. But did you see any Thai (Siamese) cats?

I saw lots of cats but not any Siamese ones.

Awesome post – I am leading a photo tour to Chiang Mai next January and I love some of the places you have included that my guide did not mention – will have to circle back to them. Love your photos too!

Have a great trip. Chiang Mai is amazing!!

That architecture is so incredibly stunning. And love that you suggested an ethical elephant sanctuary. Thanks for these ideas!

Chiang Mai has so much flavor i LOVE it. Need to go back and stay longer. I didnt visit several of these places and great tip on thai pants – they are a MUST!

Thai pants are the best! 🙂

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The Ultimate 5 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary

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Chiang Mai is a vibrant, culturally rich, and laid-back city located in northern Thailand. With its ancient temples, bustling night markets, lush green landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it’s easy to cover all the city has to offer in a 5 day Chiang Mai itinerary.

Chiang Mai has become increasingly popular for travelers seeking an authentic Thai experience.

It’s famous for its Yi Peng festival (otherwise known as The Lantern Festival) which takes place every November, as well as being a hot location to enjoy Songkran (Thai New Year) which is celebrated by washing the Buddha statues at the temples and having water parties in the street.

Even if you are not visiting Chiang Mai during one of these festivities, there is so much to see and do.

In this guide, we have provided you with the ultimate Chiang Mai 5-day itinerary that covers the best of Chiang Mai and more…

Is 5 Days Enough for Chiang Mai?

Before we get into the best 5 day itinerary for Chiang Mai, let’s quickly cover how many days you need to spend in the city.

5 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Chiang Mai, as it allows you to explore the city and the surrounding region without rushing to fit everything in.

You can spend some days relaxing in the city, take it slow, and visit one or two attractions per day.

You can see Chiang Mai in 3 or 4 days, but you would have to rush to fit everything in, whereas 5 days allows you to travel more leisurely.

Read more: 1 Month Itinerary for Thailand

The Best 5 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary

So without further ado, here is how to spend 5 days in Chiang Mai…

Day 1: Exploring the Old City

On your first day in Chiang Mai, we recommend exploring the old city. The old city is located inside the historic city walls, and surrounded by a moat.

The old city is home to some of the city’s most historic temples and landmarks and is one of the main reasons to visit Chiang Mai . Be sure to check out the remains of the Tha Phae Gate , located on the Eastern side of the city.

Begin your day by visiting Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan , a stunning temple complex that dates back to the 14th century.

The temple complex features beautiful chedis (stupas), ornate carvings, and intricate murals.

After visiting the temple, walk over to the Three Kings Monument , a sculpture dedicated to the three Kings (Mengrai, Ramkamhaeng, and Ngam Muang) who are the founding fathers of Chiang Mai.

Then head over to the Wat Lok Moli which is located on the outside of the north gate. This temple dates back to the 1300s and has a beautiful historic chedi with colorful prayer flags at its base.

Next, head to Wat Chedi Luang , an ancient temple that was once home to the Emerald Buddha.

Although the original 14th-century structure was damaged in an earthquake, it remains one of the city’s most impressive landmarks . It’s famous for its enormous chedi (stupa) made from bricks, with huge elephant statues at its base.

I recommend you visit this temple during sunset as it looks impressive when the night lights turn on and light up the four corners of the chedi.

End your day by having dinner at the Tha Phae Walking Street , where you can sample street food, shop for souvenirs, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

In the evening, you can watch a Muay Thai fight (Thai Boxing) which takes place nightly starting at 9.00 pm.

Day 2: Elephant Sanctuary and Doi Suthep

On your second day in Chiang Mai, take a trip to an elephant sanctuary . When choosing an elephant sanctuary to visit, we recommend you ask about your accommodation or do some research online for an ethical sanctuary.

There are many sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, each offering to provide a safe and ethical way to interact with elephants without supporting the cruel practices of elephant riding and exploitation.

The most ethical sanctuaries allow you to observe without interacting with the elephants while learning about their habitat and conservation efforts.

If a sanctuary allows you to ride, feed, bathe, or play with elephants, they are not ethical.

Elephant sanctuary tours last for half a day, so try to time your visit for the morning, so you can spend your afternoon exploring Wat Phra That Doi Suthep , a beautiful temple complex perched on a hill overlooking the city.

The temple features a golden pagoda and intricate carvings, and the views from the top are breathtaking.

If you have time, you can visit the Sticky Waterfalls(Namtok Bua Tong) in Nam Phu Chet Si National Park  on the way back. This is the perfect place to cool off with a refreshing swim in the pools of the waterfall.

Day 3: Cooking Class and Night Bazaar

On day three, you may want to do something more relaxing, so I recommend you take a cooking class to learn how to prepare some of Thailand’s most delicious dishes.

During a Thai cooking class, you’ll visit a local market to learn about Thai ingredients before returning to the cooking school to prepare your own curry paste and other dishes.

You will also learn about Thai cooking methods and culinary etiquette .

These classes tend to take 2-3 hours, so it’s best to plan for half a day to do this class.

Afterward, relax with a traditional Thai massage before heading to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for some authentic street food.

The bazaar is a bustling outdoor market that offers everything from clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs to street food.

If you’re visiting on a Sunday, you could also take a trip over to the Sunday Night Market which is another great place to find street food and shop for souvenirs.

Day 4: Doi Inthanon National Park

On day four, take a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park , located about 60 kilometers southwest of Chiang Mai.

The park is home to Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Inthanon, and features stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints.

Spend the day exploring the park, hiking to the summit of the mountain, visiting the Karen Hill Tribe Village , and marveling at the beautiful flora and fauna.

Day 5: Yoga Retreat and Nimmanhaemin Road

On your final day in Chiang Mai, book yourself into a yoga retreat to relax, unwind and rejuvenate your mind and body.

Chiang Mai has many yoga studios and retreats that offer a variety of classes and workshops suitable for all levels of experience.

Afterward, head to Nimmanhaemin Road , a trendy neighborhood in Chiang Mai known for its coffee shops, art galleries, fashion boutiques, and restaurants.

Spend the afternoon exploring the area, trying out different cafes, and shopping for souvenirs.

Where to stay in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of our top picks for places to stay in Chiang Mai…

• Pakping Hostel . This is a new hostel that opened up in 2022 and features mixed and female-only dorms, with a modern and homey atmosphere. The owners are incredibly nice and helpful, and the location can’t be beaten – literally in the heart of the Old City. We stay here every time we go to Chiang Mai.
• Rachamankha Hotel . This is a charming boutique hotel located in the city center, within walking distance of the city’s temples and attractions.
• Le Meridien Chiang Mai . This is a modern 5-star hotel with stunning views of the city and a rooftop pool. It’s located outside of the Old City near the Night Bazaar, but still within walking distance of the city’s attractions.
• Sala Lanna Chiang Mai . A boutique hotel located on the banks of the Mae Ping River, offering stunning river views. This is a quiet location outside of the main city, and would be the perfect place to stay during the Lantern Festival (a Thailand bucket list experience ) as it overlooks the river where the Loy Krathongs float downstream.
• Amora Hotel Chiang Mai . A budget-friendly option located in the heart of the city, just outside Tha Phrae Gate, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to all the major attractions.

Read more: When Is The Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai?

Map Of This Chiang Mai Itinerary

To help you plan your route, here is a map of this Chiang Mai 5 day itinerary…

FAQs About This Chiang Mai Itinerary

Here’s what people usually ask us about visiting Chiang Mai…

Is 5 days too long in Chiang Mai?

If you’re a fast-paced traveler, then 5 days may be too long for you. But if you prefer to travel slowly, allocate time to relax and soak up the atmosphere of a place, then 5 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Chiang Mai.

Which part of Chiang Mai is best?

The Old City is the best place to stay in Chiang Mai since it’s central to most attractions. You can also find great accommodation in Karin Thip Village, located on the Eastern side of Chiang Mai outside the old city.

Final Thoughts on this 5 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary

Chiang Mai is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of natural beauty to explore.

Whether you’re interested in history, food, or adventure, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city, and should not be skipped when visiting Thailand for the first time .

With this 5-day itinerary, you can experience the best that Chiang Mai has to offer and make memories that will last a lifetime.

4 thoughts on “The Ultimate 5 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary”

Very useful info, thanks

Hi Sabu, thank you for your kind words. We’re pleased you found this helpful!

Thank you for the information. I will definitely follow your itinerary.

You are very welcome Angela!

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Spending 3 days in Chiang Mai? This Chiang Mai travel blog is all you need to plan a perfect trip, Things to do in Chiang Mai, where to stay, and more!

How To Spend 3 Days In Chiang Mai

Welcome to Chiang Mai!

Chiang Mai is the capital of the north and the second largest city in Thailand.

After spending 4 days in Bangkok , I took a train to Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai is also known as the temple capital of Thailand.

Every corner you look in the city, you will probably see a temple.

The city of Chiang Mai will take you on a magical journey into the past, many cultures have passed through the city, and the proof of this is the old city walls that surround the city center which was built about 1,000 years ago.

Chiang Mai is a combination of culture, merging with the endless green nature that surrounds the city.

Many travelers usually start the trip to Thailand in Chiang Mai, something calm before the "carnival" in the islands of Thailand.

Plan your Chiang Mai itinerary:

How to get to chiang mai.

Chiang Mai is the largest and most visited city in northern Thailand.

It is considered the capital of the north.

You can get to Chiang Mai in three ways:

Flight - the easiest and most convenient way, but also the most expensive.

The flight time from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is about an hour, and you can order a ticket through one of the domestic airlines that operate in Thailand; Air Asia, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and Nok Air.

Please note that Nok Air and AirAsia flights depart from Bangkok's old airport, Don Mueang (DMK), which means that if you have booked an international flight to Thailand at BKK airport, and you have a connecting flight to Chiang Mai, you will need to take a shuttle bus or taxi to DMK.

There are regular flights between Chiang Mai and other cities in Thailand such as Koh Samui and Phuket, and flights from Chiang Mai to other destinations in Asia like Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Seoul, and more.

Book here a flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Bus - A bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai leaves at least once an hour, and the journey takes about 12 hours.

It is recommended to take an air-conditioned VIP bus, whose prices range from 600-800 baht.

Take a bus that leaves around 18:00 so that it will be a night trip and you won't waste an entire day traveling.

Please note: keep valuables close to you and not in the trunk.

There is no shortage of thefts on tourist buses, and the thieves have also learned to pick locks on bags and suitcases.

Book here a bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Train - Six trains leave every day from Hua Lampong station to Chiang Mai, from 06:30 to 21:00. The length of the trip is between 12-14 hours, and the cost of the ticket is between 900-1200 baht (depending on the class).

When it comes to an overnight trip, it is recommended to take an air-conditioned sleeper in first class, for maximum comfort.

Book here a train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Best time to visit Chiang Mai

The weather in Thailand is divided between the dry season and the rainy season.

the dry season

The dry season is also the cold season, and in Chiang Mai, it ranges from October to March.

In these six months, there are differences between the daytime and the evening weather, which means that it is much colder in the evening.

Between October and February, you will find months Relatively cold, but rain will not catch you.

One of the nice things to do in February is to go to the flower festival, where, among other things, a colorful flower exhibition crosses the city.

Another event that takes place during this period is Thai Independence Day which takes place in mid-April, while in Chiang Mai, it gets a significant presence - the locals crowd the restaurants and markets and the whole city turns into one big water party.

the rainy season

Thailand's wet season is also the hot season and ranges from July to October.

These months are quite rainy, and the temperatures may even be high.

At the same time, a feeling of humidity surrounds the whole environment.

How to get from the airport in Chiang Mai to the city center?

Chiang Mai airport is very close to the city center (old city). The field is less than 2 km from the western side of the old city, so you can even reach it on foot, but why do it with luggage?

From the airport, there are taxis that take a private ride to any point in the old city for 160 baht. There are also metered taxis with a similar price.

They cost 40 baht per passenger to get to the old city, but you have to wait for one to be full of passengers for it to leave, and by then you may get discouraged and prefer to take a private taxi because they are not expensive, after all.

Blue bus (City Bus)

It costs 20 baht and the frequency is every 20 minutes. The bus arrives in the old city after a small detour.

The main problem is that you will not easily find the bus at the airport because there are no clear signs and also because all the airport employees will encourage you to take a taxi.

How to get around Chiang Mai?

There are many options for getting around in Chiang Mai, from the traditional ones like Tuktuk to the modern ones like Uber.

Motorcycle - you can rent a bike (but remember that the city is  busy, and it is not the best and most pleasant place to ride, especially if this is your first time on a motorcycle)

Tuk-Tuk - The tuk-tuk is considered a symbol of Thailand, and if you are there for the first time, you will hop on it for at least one ride.

Even in Chiang Mai, you can get around the city by tuk-tuk.

They have different prices, and it is always advisable to bargain.

Songthaew - a large red van that can accommodate many people.

The Songthaew went around and picked up passengers at every opportunity. A cheap and convenient option - I used them a lot.

Taxi - more pleasant and personal (and not in the open air like the Tuk-To) but more expensive (a cheaper option is Uber)

By foot - a great option for those who want to discover Chiang Mai and walk around the city.

How many days to spend in Chiang Mai?

3 days in Chiang Mai is the ideal time to visit the city.

In two full days, you can get an impression of the old city and the magical temples, take a cooking course, volunteer at a rehabilitative elephant farm, and soak up the atmosphere in Chiang Mai.

On the third day, you will have enough time to experience the impressive Doi Inthanon National Park.

Where to stay in Chiang Mai?

There are lots of options in great price ranges for accommodation in the Chiang Mai area. There are so many styles that you can get confused, everyone has to find what suits them.

In Chiang Mai, I recommend sleeping in these areas: the old city, near the river, and the night bazaar.

Stamps Backpackers Hostel

One of the best hostels in Thailand! Excellent location. Great staff that makes you feel comfortable and makes sure you are satisfied. A great place to meet people from all over the world, especially if you are traveling alone. A refreshing and fun mixing of cultures!

check availability & rates

POR Thapae Gate

an intimate hotel with a beautiful pool. The hotel is very environmentally friendly. You will have free water, fruit, and coffee all day long. The location is close to a couple of great restaurants and most of the tourist attractions!

Baan Boo Loo Village

A magical hotel in the heart of Chiang Mai. The accommodation includes breakfast, but there is a shared kitchen where you can treat yourself to a drink or a snack at any time. The rooms are individually decorated and feature teak furniture and Thai textiles, as well as a seating area and an en suite bathroom.

3 day Chiang Mai itinerary

Visit the best temples in chiang mai.

There are hundreds of temples in Chiang Mai, as well as in its surroundings.

Some of them are important to the locals, and some attract crowds of visitors.

Here is a short list of some of the recommended ones to visit, temples in Chiang Mai that you should not miss:

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

This temple, as mentioned, is among the most important temples in all of Thailand and as such is at the top of the list.

To get to the top of the mountain, wherever it is, you can use a rented scooter or do it as part of a day trip, which of course includes direct access to the entrance.

There is a climb of 309 steps, from which you can see the spectacular views of the city from the northwest and the beauty that surrounds it.

The highest point in the park is 1,685 meters high, making it the eighth-highest peak in Thailand.

Wat Chedi Luang

If you are short on time and want to take the opportunity to visit another unique temple, this temple is one of the recommended in the city and is located in the center of the old city within walking distance of most of its hotels and popular markets.

The word Luang in the local language means "very large", and indeed the central structure of the place is enormous.

The highest point of the temple is 80 meters high, making it the highest point in the old city of Chiang Mai.

The temple itself dates back to 1385, but since then it has undergone renovations and changes.

In the past, it was the home of the Buddha statue made of emerald which is now in the Grand Palace in Bangkok.

The temple is open to visitors every day from 06:00 in the morning until 17:00.

Wat Phra Singh

Thanks to the massive renovation that this temple underwent in the 19th century, and later the correction of some paint defects, it is considered one of the most impressive temples in Chiang Mai, in terms of its visual and design aspects.

The main building is the highlight when visiting the place, this, among other things, thanks to its sloping roofs and spectacular facade.

The place is open to visitors every day from 06:00 in the morning until 17:00.

Wat Suan Dok

Compared to the other temples of Chiang Mai, it is among the least known temples.

It is located just outside the city walls and was built in the late 14th century by the King of Chiang Mai.

The visitors can take a meditation class, which is held there on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays between 5:30 and 9:00 p.m.

Learn about the Thai culture

Another place worth visiting in the old city of Chiang Mai is the Lanna museum.

This fascinating museum presents the life of the Lena people, residents of northern Thailand. It teaches a lot about their customs, culture, and their long-standing heritage.

The museum building has been renovated and is now seen as a building designed in a colonial style.

The museum is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, from 08:30 to 17:00.

Take a cooking class

After you have been impressed by the ancient temples of Chiang Mai and its fascinating history, you can join a cooking class and taste the delicious delicacies of Chiang Mai.

Very few cuisines in the world can compete with fine and richly flavored Thai cuisine.

One of the most tourist attractions in Chiang Mai is participation in a cooking class.

The food in northern Thailand is diverse, delicious, and inspired by neighboring countries, and at the same time, different from the food in southern Thailand, so many tourists take cooking courses in Chiang Mai, which is known for its excellent schools.

Chiang Mai is one of the best places to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine and has many cooking schools where you can participate in daily (or longer) cooking workshops and learn how to prepare local dishes. In the several-hour workshops, you will learn to prepare classic dishes such as tom yum soup, pad thai and green curry, and the delicious sticky rice and mango dessert.

End your day by wandering around the night bazaar

A cheap and lively market where you can find everything - wooden products, bags, clothes and shoes, watches, paintings, music, art objects, sculptures, tribal handicrafts, souvenirs, and thousands of other things that come to your mind.

The market is large, the stalls are beautiful, and it is very crowded, but it is pleasant to walk around, and it is cheap to buy there.

The market also offers attractive food stalls built around a huge seating area.

Many of the stalls are repetitive, so don't rush to buy. Be sure to bargain and expect discounts of 30-70%.

It is also interesting to see all the artists when they paint or carve magnificent works of art before your eyes.

The market is the icing on the cake in the city, and it is recommended to visit it every evening.

Don't forget to drink great smoothies and eat Banana Lotti.

Open every day from sunset to 23:00.

The recommended time to arrive is around 19:00.

Buathong Falls

There are many waterfalls in northern Thailand, but the Buathong waterfalls are beautiful and unusual. You won't see them anywhere else in Thailand, so it is highly recommended to visit them as part of a trip to the north and enjoy this experience.

Buathong Falls is on the southern side of the Sri Lanna Reserve, about an hour and a half drive from the city of Chiang Mai and within the beautiful green nature of the reserve.

The waterfalls were nicknamed sticky waterfalls due to a unique phenomenon.

Limestone rocks with a mineral that causes them to become rough surfaces with an extraordinary grip. A white substance that looks like a stiff sponge and allows the feet to "stick" to these surfaces.

Unlike other waterfalls where the water falls from a height into a pool of water - Bua Thong waterfalls have three steps, and the water flows diagonally downhill.

The structure and texture of the rocks on which algae does not grow together with the slope of the waterfall makes it possible to climb these waterfalls and hence the origin of the nickname "the sticky waterfalls". The waterfall also has ropes that you can use while climbing.

Besides the color and beauty of the place - white rocks in the green nature - the possibility of climbing up the waterfall is what makes the place unique and from where the nickname "the sticky waterfalls" comes from - you can climb up the waterfall as all the visitors do and feel like Spider-Man.

Visit elephant sanctuary

Those who want an amazing experience (and non-abusive!) That includes elephants having the option of visiting an elephant sanctuary or volunteering at this type of place.

In response to the moral problems with the animals, and in an attempt to compensate for the long-standing abuse of elephants, rehabilitation farms began to open in Thailand which is a refuge for elephants exploited in the tourist industry.

The elephant farm in Chiang Mai is considered a much friendlier attraction for elephants, and as part of it, the tourists shower the elephants, feed them and spend several hours with them.

There are half-day, two-day itineraries and also itineraries that include one night's accommodation.

Keep in mind that there are places that advertise themselves as "rehabilitation farms" but offer activities such as riding elephants. Therefore, check them carefully before you go there.

Click here to order a ticket to the rehabilitation elephant farm.

Eat Khao Soi - the flagship dish of Northern Thailand

This dish is so delicious and light that you can eat it every day and you won't get tired of it.

The dish is served as a type of soup with boiled egg noodles, fried rice noodles, lime, shallots, pickles, and chili with meat or chicken in a curry sauce with coconut milk.

Because the dish is considered street food, it is extremely cheap and tasty.

Nimmanhaemin street

Nimmanhaemin Road is the most fashionable part of Chiang Mai.

Full of high-class restaurants and bars, the side streets are also full of them.

There is a new mall at one end of the road.

The mall contains many designer stores, as well as a cinema, and several restaurants.

The chicest area in the city that comes alive at night with bars, clubs and restaurants, live music, and concerts, is where most of the locals go.

The clubs and bars on this street are considered to be of the highest quality.

Doi Inthanon National Park

It is one of the most popular national parks in Thailand.

It is located in a large area on the highest mountain in Thailand (2595 meters) and is humid and cool all year round.

The locals call it "the roof of Thailand".

The park has a variety of sites, waterfalls (which are at their best from May to November), hiking trails, observation points, pagodas, and tribal villages.

Due to the height of the park, it is better to wear long clothes in the winter months.

Because of its size, the only way to travel is by car, and it is better to avoid visiting on weekends and during holidays because then it is too busy.

You can travel in an independent reserve with a car or join an organized trip from Chiang Mai, which includes transportation, guidance, sites, lunch, and drinks.

The visit to the reserve takes a whole day!

The recommended time for the magical experience ranges from a day trip (usually 8:00-17:00) to a weekend and even longer.

If you choose a day trip to the reserve, you can join one of the organized trips that go to the place.

click here to book a guided tour to Doi Inthanon National Park

Opening hours of the park: every day from 05:30-18:30.

My recommendation: whether you come to the reserve through an organized trip or independently, devote enough time to this beautiful reserve, travel leisurely, and don't try to do everything in a single hour.

A visit to the Doi Inthanon Nature Reserve only to take a picture near the summit and some waterfall - simply a miss of visiting the place!

Where to eat in Chiang Mai?

In Chiang Mai, you can find a wide variety of great food of different types, from local food in markets and street stalls such as Pad Thai, various local meats, and especially desserts such as "banana loti" and sticky rice with mango, to restaurants serving western food and western chains such as McDonald's S, Burger King, Subway, Starbucks and more.

The food in northern Thailand is inspired by countries that border the region, so there are slight differences between the style of food in northern Thailand and the south of Thailand.

For example, Khao Soi is not the usual curry that is common all over Thailand, but a thinner curry, more like a soup.

Khao Soi Khun Yai - a simple restaurant, but excellent and always busy! Cao Sui with chicken costs 30 baht here, and the larger portion costs 35 baht. You can also order it with pork or beef. Besides Khao Soi, there are other noodle dishes and delicious natural juice for 15 baht.

Highly recommended!

Khao Soi Islam - is a famous restaurant near the river, Warurat market, and the mosque. The place is run by a Thai Muslim and serves a variety of great food with a Muslim influence.

Besides Khao Sui, which is the best-selling dish there, he also has an excellent Masaman beef curry, dumplings, chicken satay, and more.

Khao Soi Wua Lai - is a famous restaurant among the locals, and less so among the tourists. It is located on Wulai Street, which is also the shopping street on Sundays. The restaurant is simple and the sign with the name is in Thai.

Inside there are wooden chairs and tables. You will be able to notice the restaurant because it is the only one that is always full of people and also slides into the street.

Ristr8to Coffee -  The best coffee place in Chiang Mai. The owner specialized in coffee for years in Australia and then brought the art of coffee to Chiang Mai. There is an air-conditioned area and an outside area in the sun. Usually, the restaurant is always full.

Festivals in Chiang Mai

Flower festival (february).

Every beginning of February, there is a spectacularly beautiful flower festival in Chiang Mai, during which the entire city center blooms and is painted with bright colors.

The purpose of the festival is to celebrate, of course, the blooming of the tropical flowers that are characteristic of northern Thailand. During the three days in which it is celebrated, there are, among other things, a host of flower displays, flower beauty contests, sales of handmade items, and more.

The festival atmosphere is complemented by the locals with food stalls, entertainment, and music shows.

Thai Independence Day (mid-April)

The biggest celebration in Thailand comes in full force to Chiang Mai - the parties become bigger and more boisterous, the locals flood the markets and restaurants en masse, and above all the city becomes one big water celebration. Put on a bathing suit, leave your belongings at the hotel, and go out to participate in a huge water war - buckets, water guns, hoses, and whatnot on every street corner.

The Lantern Festival of Chiang Mai (end of November)

The Lantern Festival of Chiang Mai continues an ancient local tradition and is the northern Thai version of the famous Loi Krathong ("Loi = light kartong = floating") celebrations that are celebrated throughout Thailand.

According to the belief, the blossoming of the blossoming balls to the sky brings with them all the troubles and difficulties of man's day to day.

Various cultural events are held at the festival, including balloon-blossom competitions, light and sound parades, raft and row boat sailing competitions, and small lighted raft-floating competitions usually made of banana tree leaves and called Krathong in Thai.

Extras for your Chiang Mai itinerary:

The best day trips from chiang mai, go for a hike in the mountains.

In Chiang Mai, there are many options for trekking in the mountains. It is possible to do a trek for one day or several days. It is best to go with an organized company for the trek and not independently since not all the paths are marked, and it is easy to get lost there.

In addition, there are places where you cannot enter without a special entry permit that only companies have.

Bo Sang Umbrella Village

The village has been known, for hundreds of years, as a place for the production of colorful parasols and umbrellas, not only throughout Thailand but throughout the world. So much so that Chiang Mai has become associated with the same metrics. Here you will find a lot of beautiful umbrellas, of all sizes and types and other handmade works made of paper, at excellent prices.

A day trip to Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle, known among the locals as "Sop Ruak" is a forested mountainous area in the northern part of Thailand, where it meets Laos and Myanmar (hence the name "Golden Triangle").

Despite the charged and complex history of the area, the Golden Triangle is considered a prominent and important tourist destination, one that attracts crowds of visitors throughout the year, visitors of all ages who come for a short or long vacation.

The spectacular views it offers, the coffee plantations, the traditional villages where time seems to have stood still and the winding rivers, all these and more make it a stopping point that should not be missed and one of the most beautiful places in Thailand.

Click here to book a day trip to Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle.

Rules of conduct in temples

The list of recommended temples to visit in the city is endless, but some stand out in it that you should not miss. Although it is a tourist attraction for all intents and purposes, let's not forget that first of all it is a sacred place for the locals and also for quite a few visitors, who travel a long way to reach that temple.

Therefore, before you set out, and take out your camera or phone to take a picture, you must know a few things:

First, you must respect the place, the tradition, and the other visitors and locals. Dress in modest clothes (this is not the time to wear flip-flops, wear a tank top or a short dress), and keep in mind that there are temples with a strict dress code (you cannot reach them with bare shoulders or knees - relevant for both men and women).

Wear shoes that are easy for you to take off since at the entrance to the temples you will have to take them off and leave them outside.

Check in advance what the entry hours are and arrive according to the announcements.

When you enter, be careful not to turn your back to the Buddha (unacceptable and inappropriate) or point your feet directly at the various Buddha statues.

If you are debating what is right and what is not right, watch the locals and wait for their behavior or, before entering, find out what the local rules are.

You can go to certain temples as part of guided tours, which will provide you with a lot of important information about each temple and help you better understand the local culture.

If you do not find such a tour and you want to go to the place independently, read about the history and the temple before your visit.

Chiang Mai Travel tips

1. It is highly recommended to visit the Sunday night market.

The Sunday night market is a colorful market spread along some of the streets of the old city of Chiang Mai.

The market is very different from the night market that is open every day in that it is much bigger, and sellers from all over the Chiang Mai district come to it. (The main entrance from the THA PAE gate)

2. For those arriving by bus/night train from Bangkok - as soon as you set foot outside the station, you will be jumped by tuk-tuk drivers who will be very happy to take you to a certain guesthouse.

Check carefully what is being offered to you, sometimes these are scams that will bring you to particularly expensive or bad places.

3. Some of the attractions in the area include a disgraceful treatment of animals (especially riding elephants or visiting the tiger kingdom), the animals are kept in bad conditions, and sometimes the guides beat them until they bleed. You may prefer that your money not help fund it.

4. Look twice when crossing the road - in Chiang Mai, there is probably no right of way for pedestrians, and if you break into the road or try to cross the road thinking that the cars on the way will stop you, think twice.

5. Beware of renting scooters in Chiang Mai!

If you have no experience riding a scooter and you are not an experienced rider, it is better to use another type of transportation.

6. Thieves and pickpockets - in the night market and other markets in Chiang Mai where there is a density of tourists there are always professional pickpockets who try to rob innocent tourists.

Therefore, always pay attention to your valuables and stay away from anything that seems suspicious to you.

Final thoughts after 3 days in Chiang mai

Chiang Mai is a magical place, it is not exactly the Thailand we imagine when we think of the land of white beaches and clear waters.

Chiang Mai is a different and unusual city. Calm, stunning, and spiritual, and definitely suitable as a destination for a soft landing before moving to the islands in the south.

Chiang Mai is suitable and very convenient for family trips and for young people who want to experience something different, to try to get to know Thai culture more closely.

I hope this 3 days in Chiang mai itinerary will help you plan your next trip to Chiang mai, and I am sure you will enjoy!

Thanks for reading!

My travel resources.

Here are some websites I use whenever preparing for my next journey anywhere around the world.

• Book affordable flights on Expedia , a great website that show the best routes and flight deals to your destination.
• Find a budget-friendly deal on all sorts of accommodation types on Booking.com .
• Buy the most flexible and budget-friendly travel insurance at SafteyWing .
• Pre-book a private transfer from Chiang mai to the city center.
• Check the best Tours & Day trips from Chiang Mai to maximize your trip.

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Chiang Mai Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on April 5th, 2024

The ultimate Chiang Mai travel Guide blog with a detailed itinerary helps you discover the most iconic attractions, the best places to visit, and things to do for 3 to 5 days. Let’s visit Chiang Mai!

Located in the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai is an essential stop for any traveler to Thailand. It is a cultural city in Thailand and has so many exciting attractions that you can plan for your trip. There are around 300 temples in the city of Chiang Mai with endless corners to explore.

When considering what to do in Chiang Mai, you’ll find that there is plenty to keep you busy. There are so many things to do, tasty eats, and hidden gems that can be included as part of your Chiang Mai itinerary during your trip. Whether you’re seeking culture, cuisine, or a beautiful view, for sure there is something for you.

In this Chiang Mai Travel Guide blog , we will share all the useful travel information and tips including how to get there, where to stay, and what to eat. Also, let’s check out our ultimate Chiang Mai itinerary for making the most of your time and enjoying Chiang Mai as much as we did.

Table of Contents

Chiang Mai Travel Guide

Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand after Bangkok. Known as the city of temples, Chiang Mai is one of the most popular attractions in the country. With hundreds of Buddhist temples, there is much to fill your Chiang Mai itinerary. Apart from the many sacred temples, Chiang Mai is also known for its breathtaking nature. The highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon, is located just outside of Chiang Mai.

To make this a complete Chiang Mai travel guide, here are few quick answers you probably have when planning the itinerary.

You will need at least two full days to enjoy the best of Chiang Mai City only. Plus, there are some attractions nearby that you can be coupled together for a total of 5 days to make your way through our Chiang Mai travel itinerary.

That said, the best time to visit Chiang Mai is from November to January where the weather is cold and pleasant. But it is also peak tourist season so accommodation prices will be a bit higher.

How To Get To Chiang Mai

In order to get to Chiang Mai, most likely international travelers will land in Bangkok. From there, choose from a domestic flight or take an overnight train or bus to Chiang Mai. Some countries like Malaysia, Singapore, China, Taiwan, and South Korea offer direct flights to Chiang Mai.

To find a cheap flight to Chiang Mai, you can search for cheap flights here: Skyscanner .

By Flight : Chiang Mai is the main city hub in Northern Thailand and has countless daily flight connections between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The flight takes about one hour.

By Train : From Hua Lamphong Train Station in Bangkok to Chiang Mai Train Station will take you about 13 hours for overnight train and 11 hours during the daytime.

By Bus : It is also possible to take a bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. The journey takes around 10 hours to get you to Chiang Mai Arcade 2 Bus Terminal.

Chiang Mai Travel Tip : If you wish to travel to Chiang Mai by train or bus, you can reserve your ticket via Bookaway .

Getting Around in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s old town is fairly compact and easily walkable. There are many different options and it is best to combine them with various types of transportation options when getting around in town.

Scooter – Courageous travelers may choose to rent a car or a moped. The rental fee for a scooter is around 200-250 THB a day, and you got the flexibility to go around in Chiang Mai.

Songthaew – The local taxi truck is a popular option and you can also hire them for one full day. Just wave them off from the road in Chiang Mai, discuss the destination and negotiate the price.

Tuk-tuk – Also common in Chiang Mai. Slightly more expensive but easy to ride on for getting around in town for a short journey.

Grab – The e-hailing service is common in South East Asia including Thailand. Similar to Uber, you’ll need to download the app and the price is also reasonable.

Tour / Private Transfer – If you prefer a more relaxing experience, you may consider going on organized tours to all the attractions with good arrangements. It is best to hire a private transfer, especially if you are with a group or elderly.

Where To Stay

In general, Chiang Mai’s Old City (Old Town) is the best area to stay for first-time visitors to Chiang Mai . As long as you stay in the Central Town area, then you shouldn’t have any problems getting around.

• High-Range :  Phra Singh Village – A great luxurious place to enjoy some luxury in Chiang Mai.
• Mid-Range :  99 The Gallery Hotel – A great mid-range hotel located in the heart of everything. The Sunday night market is one street over!
• Budget :  The Common Hostel – Popular budget stay for clean and comfortable stay.

While Nimman is a vibrant area for a relaxing stay in Chiang Mai. The area is less bustling, and family-friendly.

• Luxury :  U Nimman Chiang Mai is a stylish 5-star hotel with an outdoor pool and views of the mountain, located at U Nimman. Rooms have a terrace and hotel facilities include a pool bar, restaurant, and sauna. Extremely popular and best to reserve your room early!
• High-Range :  Moose Hotel Nimman is a great option for family travelers with kids. It is located in the best location in Nimman, and opposite with U Nimman. Everything you want is within walking distance.
• Budget :  Sakulchai Place  is a great budget-friendly hotel located near Nimmanhaemin road and within walking distance of the night markets and Maya shopping mall. The rooms are simple but comfortable with great facilities.

For more accommodation option, check out: Where To Stay in Chiang Mai: Top 4 Best Areas .

Chiang Mai Festival

If you plan to schedule your Chiang Mai itinerary around some incredible festivals, then you have a few options.

Flower Festival (February) is held in Chiang Mai on the first weekend of every February for over 3 days. For over 40 years, locals celebrates the beautiful flowers in bloom with parades, street markets, concerts, and amazing floral displays.

Songkran (April) is the Thai New Year’s national holiday. A giant water festival is held every year on the 13th- 15th of April throughout Thailand. The streets become a huge giant water fight with water guns which is a unique experience.

Yi Peng and Loi Krathong festival (November) take place on the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. During this time, Thais release paper lanterns into the night sky to symbolize letting go of misfortunes and making wishes as they do so. It is the most popular festival in Chiang Mai and booking is highly recommended for accommodation as the city is very busy at this time.

Things To Do in Chiang Mai Itinerary

Following this Chiang Mai Travel Guide blog, you’ll get to see many sides the city has offered. Our Chiang Mai itinerary will help to keep your trip planning from becoming overwhelming, it gives you all the necessary information you need to get going.

Things to do for 4-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive Chiang Mai. Exploring Old Town and Temples.
• Day 2: Doi Inthanon National Park.
• Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary, Thai Cooking Class, or Thai Massage and Spa Experience.
• Day 4 and Day 5: Side Trip from Chiang Mai.
• Day 6: Relaxing at Nimman neighbourhood.
• Goodbye Chiang Mai!

Day 1: Arrive Chiang Mai. Explore Old Town and Temples

We’ll start by assuming that you’re arriving in Chiang Mai and starting to explore the city in the morning.

On the first day of the Chiang Mai itinerary, we recommended you get to jump right into the best things to do in Chiang Mai around the city center. This way, you’ll be able to get your bearings and get a feel for the city before exploring further.

Pro Tips : If you prefer you can also do an organized tour in Chiang Mai Old City Tour, which will take you to all the most important temples in and around the city. Click here to book your Chiang Mai Temple tours!

Old Town and Tha Phae Gate

Chiang Mai Old Town is located within a large square inside the medieval city walls. It has over 300 temples and the majority of the important temples in Chiang Mai are all situated within this square. There are four gates to enter Chiang Mai old city, and the main gate is Tha Pae Gate – one of the most famous landmarks in Chiang Mai, dating back to the 13th century.

Spend some time wandering around and seeing the main sights in the Old City.

Exploring the Temples

Next, continue your Chiang Mai itinerary with temple-hopping in the old town area.

Unfortunately, there are more than 300 temples in Chiang Mai dotted all over and around Chiang Mai. With so much to visit, you won’t able to see all of them. So we recommended visiting some of the most unique that you should definitely visit in the Chiang Mai itinerary.

The recommendation includes Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh (Golden Temple), and Wat Chedi Luang. Each of them displays different styles and is uniquely, and located close to each other in the Old Town area. You could do this itinerary on foot if you chose to, as well as on a scooter or with Grab.

Chiang Mai Travel Guide Tips: Make sure you have dressed appropriately, with your shoulders and knees covered when visiting the temples.

Wat Chiang Man

A good place to start for the temple hooping for the Chiang Mai itinerary is with the gorgeous Wat Chiang Man in the center of Old Town.

Established around 1296, Wat Chiang Man (also Wat Chiang Mun) is the oldest temple in the city and a must-see for anyone for your Chiang Mai itinerary. It is located on Ratchapakhinai Road inside the Chiang Mai Old City Walls.

The most famous part of this temple is the Chedi in the back, supported by elephant statues. The “Elephant Chedi” or “Chedi Chang Lom” is the oldest construction within the temple complex. The square base is built with 15 elephants emerging from it and carrying the Chedi on their backs.

The grounds of Wat Chiang Man are rather small and estimate to spend about 30 minutes in the temple complex.

Wat Chiang Man Address: 171 Ratchapakhinai Rd, Tambon Si Phum. Entrance Fee: Free! Estimate Time: About 30 minutes.

Wat Phra Singh

Also known as the Golden Temple, Wat Phra Singh is one of the popular sacred Buddhist temples within the walls of Chiang Mai old city. The temple complex is huge and is built in several buildings that are decorated with beautiful golden chedi. The main structures are stunning with their gliding rooftops, opulently curved external walls, and beautifully decorated paintings inside.

It is very enjoy walking around this beautiful temple’s grounds. The temples are very peaceful and full of detailed art. The interior is even more richly decorated than the outside, making it easy to see why it’s called the Golden Temple.

Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan Address: 2 Samlarn Rd, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District. Entrace Fee: 40 Baht Estimate Time: About 30 minutes.

Wat Chedi Luang

With a history that is over 600 years old, Wat Chedi Luang should be part of your Chiang Mai itinerary. It’s an awesome historical site and famous for its rocky and crumbling look. The Buddhist temple is very well-maintained for many years. The Chedi (pagoda) was partially destroyed during an earthquake many years ago, but most parts of the structure still remained in good condition.

There’s so much to see in Wat Chedi Luang. Travelers can walk around the expansive grounds, visit the famous ancient ruins and temples, and even chat with monks close by. A great place to respectfully experience Thai Buddhism.

Wat Chedi Luang Address: 103 Prapokkloa Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District. Entrace Fee: Free! Estimate Time: About 60 minutes.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

If you’re visiting Chiang Mai, Wat Doi Suthep is a must-visit. It is a splendid temple located in Doi Inthanon National Park Chiang Mai, about 15 kilometers from the city.

The temple complex is situated atop the hill with the serene surrounding. You can choose to walk up to 309 steps or take the electric tram (20 baht) to reach the gold glittering temple. It’s worth the easy hike with the beautiful view along the journey.

Similar to all the Thai temples, Wat Doi Suthep is so stunning with golden plated Chedi, Buddha statues, beautiful adornments, and intricate wood carving. The golden Chedi is particularly stunning on a blue sky day as the golden architecture really shines in the sunlight.

The place is fairly busy but all the people visiting the temple are quiet, humble, and serene. The viewpoint was just breathtaking and it is great to catch sight of Chiang Mai from the top. It is true pleasure for exploring the temple and not to be missed!

READ MORE : Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: A Travel Guide Blog

How To Get to Wat Doi Suthep : You can either hire a scooter or take a tuk-tuk from Chiang Mai and it will take you around an hour to reach the temple. Together with traveling time, it is advice to reserve at least 3 hours for your trip to Doi Suthep temple.

Chiang Mai Travel Guide Tip : Please remember to dress modestly or you could be denied entrance. Besides, you will also be asked to remove your shoes while walking around inside the main temple. There are shoe racks to store them or you could put them in your backpack.

Day 2: Doi Inthanon National Park

Besides the stunning temple, there awaits another highlight for you: lovely nature! There are two types of trips that you can do in Doi Inthanon National Park, with and without trekking. If you are physically able, I would recommend doing the trek.

During the visit, travelers can head up to Doi Inthanon National Park to experience the beauty of the forest and mountains. You’ll visit Thailand’s highest peak (Doi Inthanon Summit), the King and Queen Chedis (pagodas), the waterfall, and beautiful landscapes. A perfect day trip from Chiang Mai.

Pro Tips : It is economical and hassle-free to do a group tour of Doi Inthanon National Park. Feel free to check out for more detail – Doi Inthanon National Park & Trekking at a Nature Trail .

Grand Pagodas of Doi Inthanon

The most popular tourist attraction in Doi Inthanon National Park is the Grand Pagodas of Doi Inthanon . The Twin Royal Chedis are Pra Mahatat Noppamethanedon and Pra Mahatat Nopphonphusiri Pagodas, which are dedicated to King and Queen. It’s characterized by distinctive white and golden chedis and pagodas, which create a beautiful contrast.

The garden ground in Grand Pagodas of Doi Inthanon is also amazing and beautiful. You can take a quick walk across after visiting the main temple. This is also a great place for you to witness the sea of clouds that are often visible on a clear winter morning without having to hike.

Doi Inthanon Summit

Next, proceed to the Doi Inthanon Summit, highest point in Thailand and it can be reached by an easy hike.

The short trail will take you through a mossy forest with peaceful monks and many many travelers along the hike. The walking path will not take you more than 10 minutes to complete the journey. There is a signboard indicating you have reached the highest point in Thailand.

Nature Trekking Trail

Ang Ka Nature Trail is a short-circuit nature trail on the summit. It takes about 30 minutes to complete the trail. There is no viewpoint but only a nature tree for this easy hike. Anyone of any age can do it.

For hikers, you may consider the Kew Mae Pan Natural Trail which is significant long and beautiful. It offers unique forest phenomena, panoramic views, and serene surroundings. The viewpoint at Kew Mae Pan is picturesque and you can see the beautiful Twin Pagodas from there. It will take you about 2 to 4 hours to complete the circular path depending on your fitness.

Doi Inthanon Waterfalls

Besides, Doi Inthanon National Park is also home to the most magnificent waterfalls in Thailand. Mae Klang Waterfall, Mae Ya Waterfall, Siriphum Waterfall and Wachirathan Waterfall are some of the waterfalls that you can visit in the National Park. You may consider to stop by when visit Doi Inthanon.

On our way back from the summit, we visited Wachirathan Waterfall. It is located along the main Doi Inthanon road and a great place to stop for resting before proceed our journey. Be prepared to get a bit wet if you get close due to the spray.

Night Bazaar and Weekend Night Market

A great way to end your day on the Chiang Mai itinerary is to visit the night market. Chiang Mai has a daily Night Bazaar that opens on Chang Khlan Road. On Weekends, you may explore Sunday Night Market at Rachadamnoen Road or Saturday Night Market at Wua Lai Road.

The Sunday Night Market is the most happening and lively among all. Starting around 16:00, the street food stalls around the night market begin selling delicious hot meals and Thai street food. Among the most popular offerings are mango sticky rice, Thai noodles, and all sorts of meat grilled on sticks. Hop from stall to stall until you get your fill of the best Thailand cuisine.

Travelers can stop by for a leisurely night walk, do some shopping, and find some entertainment. There are many vendors selling handicrafts, paintings, clothes, and souvenirs for tourists to bring back home. Street performers and musicians also perform live in the street, adding to the atmosphere. Brave yourself and start shopping in Chiang Mai!

Chiang Mai Travel Guide Tip : If you’re not in Chiang Mai on a Sunday, there are other night bazaars and markets in the area. Although it is not that lively compared with the Sunday Night market, it is still a good place to sample some food and shop in Chiang Mai.

Day 3: Elephant Sanctuary

One of the most special things to do in Chiang Mai is to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary . There are a few options to choose from but the most important thing is you have to be ethical! That means no elephant rides are permitted.

The sanctuary is located about 1 hour ride out of downtown Chiang Mai and a free transfer is arranged at the cost of your visit. You will have the chance to take them for a little walk, feed them bananas, and wash them. This visit will provide an experience you will never forget!

Enjoy some quality time with the rescued elephants – Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai .

Other Fall Day Tour Option:

• Chiang Mai Kerchor Elephant Eco Park Tour
• Chiang Mai Elephant Conservation Foundation (Maesa Elephant Camp)

We opted for a half-day morning visit to see the elephant. You can also coupled it together with a Thai cooking class or Thai massage session when back in town. 

Thai Massage and Spa Experience

After returning from the Elephant Sanctuary, go for the Thai cooking class or Thai massage session when back in town. There are many Thai Massage and Spa Experiences in Chiang Mai to allow your stress to melt away. The price also various depending on your environment and professional level.

Here is some of the recommendation that you can consider:

• Fah Lanna Spa Experience at Old Town Chiang Mai
• Let’s Relax Spa Experience in Chiang Mai
• Oasis Spa Experience at Nimman

Chiang Mai Travel Tips : It is always advised to do an appoitment early to secure your slot.

We decided to pamper ourselves at one of Chiang Mai’s most famous spas, the multi-award-winning – Let’s Relax Spa . It is located nearby our hotel and we could easily walk there. They offer professional therapists who work their magic with a plethora of massages and body treatments.

The price is not cheap compared with the street massage parlor but it is worth the money. Everything is perfect at that price.

Day 4 and Day 5: Side Trips from Chiang Mai

When visiting Chiang Mai, many great side trips are possible from Chiang Mai to spend for a 1 or 2 days trip. If you have extra days to spend, it is best to go beyond Chiang Mai and visit the place nearby.

Here is the best place for your Chiang Mai itinerary:

Chiang Rai – About 3.5 hours from Chiang Mai. The most famous attractions in Chiang Rai are the White Temple, Blue White, and the Black House.

Related Travel Blog: Things To Do in Chiang Rai Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Pai – About 3 hours from Chiang Mai. Pai is also famous for its beautiful nature where you can plan for a nature hike to Pai Waterfall, or explore the Pai Canyon.

We would recommend spending at least one night due to the long traveling journey. But if you are limited in time, a day trip from Chiang Mai is also doable and we recommended to engage with the tour to save the hassle.

• Day Trip from Chiang Mai City to Chiang Rai (Small Group: Temples and Golden Triangle)
• Day Tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai – Options to choose

Day 6: Relaxing at Nimman Neighbourhood

Nimmanhaemin is the trendiest part of Chiang Mai. It is commonly known as Nimman and is based along the Nimmanhaemin Road. Nimman is filled with chic coffee shops and cafés, restaurants, stylish boutiques, and shops. There are plenty of things to do and see to keep you busy in this stylish neighborhood.

Spend some time wandering and go through the alleyway in Nimman. You’ll find some little coffee shops, cafes, or pastry shops for yourself. There are many hidden gems awaiting you to discover. We love the relaxing vibe and enjoy wandering around.

Read more for inspriration : Nimman Travel Guide Blog: Things To Do and Eat

What To Eat in Chiang Mai

We love Thai food and definitely will not miss the chance to try as many as we can. Although Chiang Mai is far from a big city like Bangkok, the food scene is not all boring. Many restaurants are tastefully done up and their menu is creative and flavorful.

Some of the must-eat food in Chiang Mai are Khao Soi (Chiang Mai curry noodles), Sai Oua (Northern Thai Spiced Sausage), and Nam Prik (Thai Chili Dips).

We also enjoyed the street food and sample a lot of good food at the weekend night market. Besides, Chiang Mai is also having many nice cafes where you can have a cup of coffee and relax.

Generally, the food in Chiang Mai is reasonable and should cost less than 100 THB per meal. Expect to pay more if you opt for a classy restaurant in the city.

For more Chiang Mai best food and restaurants, read more:

Chiang Mai Food Guide: Where and What To Eat

• Khao Soi Mae Sai: The Best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai

Overview: A Visit To Chiang Mai

All in all, we hope you enjoy our Chiang Mai itinerary blog post. I never thought that I would have so much fun exploring temples and explore the nature. It is truly a great place to visit and a true gem of Southeast Asia.  

This Chiang Mai travel guide post will serve as a convenient 5 days Chiang Mai itienerary when planning your trip to this amazing city. Hope it help you plan your Chiang Mai trip better. Enjoy!

Related Chiang Mai Travel Blog :

• Where To Stay in Chiang Mai: Top 4 Best Areas
• Nimman Travel Guide Blog: Things To Do and Eat
• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: A Travel Guide Blog

A Guide For Chiang Mai Night Market and Morning Market

Jing jai (jj) market chiang mai: a travel guide blog.

• Things To Do in Chiang Rai Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where To Stay in Chiang Rai: Best Hotels Pick

Travel to Thailand and looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my other travel blog in Bangkok and more.

• Bangkok Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
• Where To Stay in Bangkok: Best Areas and Hotels

Bangkok Food Guide: Where and What To Eat in Bangkok

Planning a beach holiday to Phuket? Get to know more before planning your trip to Phuket.

• How to Plan Your Phuket Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
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5 days in Chiang Mai Itinerary

During our 14 days trip to Thailand , we spent 5 days in Bangkok , spending a day visiting the city attractions in Bangkok . And then doing a Bangkok to Pattaya day trip and a Bangkok to Ayutthaya day trip . Post this we proceeded to Sukhothai, spending a couple of days there. And visiting the Sukhothai Historical Park . After this, we reached Chiang Mai. And we spent 5 most beautiful days of our trip in Chiang Mai (Not counting the day we reached here). So, here we present to you our 5 days in Chiang Mai itinerary, what we included in it and how it worked out so well for us.

Table of Contents

An introduction to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of the largest provinces of Thailand. It is a sprawling city, thriving with both art and culture. While at one hand it has an old city which dates back to centuries earlier with several old temples, ruins, and other architectures to marvel at. At the same time, there are more modern areas like Nimman with an active night life, lots of malls, boutiques and cafes. From night markets to upscale malls, from economical restaurants to high end cafes and upscale dining, street art, cuisine classes and painting classes – there is a lot to do and see in Chiang Mai. And moreover, there is something for everyone.

The town is located in the foothills of the northern hills. Which gives it a picture perfect location and also a nice moderate climate compared to rest of Thailand. There are several day trips that one can take to the nearby areas and towns from Chiang Mai. Of all the places that I visited in Thailand, I liked Chiang Mai the best. In fact, I can’t imagining not including Chiang Mai in your Thailand Trip Packages when you plan your trip to Thailand.

General Information on Chiang Mai

Where to stay in chiang mai with family.

Whether you are wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai solo or with family, I will highly recommend the Nimman area. And consider where to stay in Chiang Mai old town next. Since, here, we are considering to stay for our 5 days in Chiang Mai itinerary. So, it is good to stay somewhere which is close to the old Chiang Mai city. Since, everyone who goes to Chiang Mai visits the old Chiang Mai City. And then the area should have good facilities in terms of food, transport and everything else. On my own 5 days in Chiang Mai itinerary, I preferred staying somewhere which was not very crowded yet in the center of the facilities, including medical facilities as well. Since I was traveling with my 10 months old toddler.

So, after comparing whether to stay in Nimman or Chiang Mai Old City, I decided on the former. The area was upscale, yet peaceful. And there were lots of restaurants nearby the hotel I stayed in. In fact, the hotel was located in a small street off the main road, that had breathtaking views of the mountains at it’s end. And as soon as you stepped on the main road, there were malls, shops, boutique stores, cafes and restaurants, medicine shops, 7 eleven shops and what not! Even the old town of Chiang Mai was at a walking distance of 1.8 km. And you can easily get songthaew from the main road. What else did I need! So, I booked my stay in The Empire Residency Nimman  (Link to book:  Agoda ,  booking.com )

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has moderate to hot temperature. The temperature starts soaring towards hotter side by march. So, the best time to visit Chiang Mai is October – March. We visited here end of the year. And the climate was very pleasant then. Days were warm and nights cool. So, I highly recommend visiting at this time of year if you don’t want to go in the hot season. Although, visiting off season will have it’s own advantages. Like lower rates and less crowd everywhere.

How to reach Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is well connected by road with Bangkok and other major parts of Thailand. It also has an international airport with several flights connecting it to other parts of the world either via Bangkok or direct. There are flights between Chiang Mai and Bangkok at intervals of half an hour all through the day. While it takes 10 to 12 hours by bus to cover the distance between Chiang Mai and Bangkok. While on our Thailand trip, we flew into Bangkok and then traveled from Bangkok to Sukhothai. And further from Sukhothai to Chiang Mai which was around 5 hours trip.

Then after spending 5 days in Chiang Mai, we took a bus back to Bangkok. The bus journey was comfortable but 10 hours long . And with further delay it became a 12 hour long trip. So, if you are traveling on a budget, you can choose the bus journey which is definitely the most cost efficient. But if you are constrained by time, looking for comfort over cost, or traveling with elderly or kid then better take a flight in and out of Chiang Mai.

Our 5 days in Chiang Mai Itinerary

1. arrival in chiang mai.

We booked a private transfer from Sukhothai to Chiang Mai. After breakfast at our hotel Sabai Sabai Sukhothai , we started for Chiang Mai. And reached our accommodation in Chiang Mai, Hotel Empire Residence Nimman by around 4:00pm. (Although we would have reached earlier but unfortunately one of our cab tires gave up on the way and needed repair). After checking in into our hotel, we went out for a late lunch. And there after I went to the Sunday Night Market in old Chiang Mai city with my friends. I was simply blown away with the variety of products available in the market, and the reasonable prices at which they were available.

The market starts at around 5:00pm and by 6:00pm it was super packed with tourists and locals. With three columns of small roadside make shift shops selling a variety of products. A few products that really grabbed my attention were – painted T-shirts, a variety of stoles and shawls, dresses, handmade small coin purses and pouches, bags, handbags and backpacks, food products, essential oils and extra virgin coconut oil products, paintings, magnets, stuffed toys, kids wear, foot wear. (And a lot more actually!). Before we knew it was over 8:00pm. Post which we returned back, had dinner and slept off.

2. A self planned free walking tour of the old city of Chiang Mai

Today I had panned a self planned free walking tour of the old City of Chiang Mai with my group. As a part of this walking tour, we headed to old Chiang Mai city after breakfast at our hotel. And then took this walking tour of the old city, hopping from temple to temple and several other beautiful spots on the way. We walked at our own pace (That is the biggest advantage of self planned self guided tour of any place!). I have written this detailed post on our self planned free walking tour of the old City of Chiang Mai. It also includes the google map that we followed on this trip. You can use it to your convenience or do the exactly same trip using this map! So, do check it out. The post also contains details of where we stopped for lunch.

Our self planned free walking tour of the old city of Chiang Mai

3. Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon National Park day trip

Today we did this day trip from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon National Park . Actually, today was 31st December. And a crowd was expected at Doi Inthanon National Park. Although, after having visited several places in India which are always crowded, we didn’t feel the crowd at all 🙂 However, if you want it less crowded, do visit on weekdays and avoid public holidays. Nevertheless, it took us around 2 hours to reach the Doi Inthanon National Park. First we did a trip to the top of the mountain to get some nice views from there.

And then we proceeded on a trip to the beautiful Stupas of Doi Inthanon National Park along with the landscaped gardens around it. Soon, I will write the complete details of a trip to the Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai . We started back from Doi Inthanon National Park around 3:00pm . And on the way back we visited Wachirathan Waterfall. It is an enormous and one of the most refreshing waterfalls that I have ever visited. We spent a good hour here before heading back to Chiang Mai. Once back to the town, we explored the Maya mall which was at walkable distance from our hotel in Chiang Mai. If you have more time at hand, or you are fit for hiking, we will highly recommend you take this hiking tour to Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai .

Doi Inthanon National Park trip from Chiang Mai

4. Exploring the art culture of Chiang Mai

Today was 1st January. Although originally I planned to take this trip to Pai from Chiang Mai today. But few people in my group went to late night party on the night of 31st and woke up really late today. So, we dropped the idea of day trip to Pai. Instead, I decided to get closer to the art and cultural scene at Chiang Mai. As a result, I signed up for a water color painting session with the famous artist Worawuth at the three owls gallery in Chiang Mai. After a lazy start of the day and a lavish breakfast, I stepped out with my camera. And clicked the beautiful locality of Nimman. Here, I found some really beautiful street arts, cute cafes and beautiful boutique stores to click. There after we had lunch. Post lunch I went for the watercolor class. Which turned out to be one of the best experiences that I took home from Chiang Mai, along with a finished water color painting.

But more importantly, I learnt a lot of techniques and lessons from Worawuth. And want to keep practicing them. Overall, I couldn’t have asked for a better start to the first day of my new year!! Only if I had more time at hand, I would have done more such classes to get even closer to the art and culture of Chiang Mai. Maybe some classes like these:-

Thai Cooking class and local market tour

Thai Cooking class and farm visit

I highly recommend taking up one of these classes. They will definitely give you an experience of a lifetime. For the painting class, you can email them on the email address mentioned on their website.

5. Chiang Mai to Doi Suthep and Umbrella Making Artist Village day trip

On the second last day of our 5 days in Chiang Mai Itinerary, we visited Doi Suthep and Umbrella Making Artist Village. The trip started post breakfast. Also known as Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, it is one of the most prominent Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai Province. The temple is believed to have been founded in 1383 AD. Although there are different versions of the story behind it’s origin. From the car parking area there are 309 stairs that lead to the temple. Alternatively, one can also take a lift to the temple. For this, one can buy the lift ticket along with the temple entrance ticket from the counter near the car parking. The day we visited here, there was a lot of crowd. So, we suggest don’t plan to visit on a weekend or holiday or in the peak season if you can. If hiking and biking are your cup of tea, we highly recommend you take this hiking and biking tour to Doi Suthep national park . Or, you can also take this trekking trip to the Doi Suthep .

Inside, there is the main stupa and several other smaller temples. You can visit each one of them. While inside the temple, do dress modestly just like most of the other temples of Thailand. With knees and shoulders covered. Also, you must visit inside the premises with your shoes off. So, deposit your shoes in the lockers available before entering into the temples or simply leave them on a side. You can take this excellent combined tour to cover the major temples as well as the handicrafts of Chiang Mai in one day.

Umbrella Making Artist Village

After visiting Doi Suthep, we headed to the Umbrella Making Artist village of Chiang Mai. It is located a little out of the main town. And we reached here in another 30 minutes. The place once again won my heart. You can see here the whole process of how the famous umbrellas of Chiang Mai are made. Right from the base and the fabric to the completion process. And then you can also work hand in hand with the artists . Wherein you can either try your hands on painting the umbrellas yourself. Or, you can buy a plain umbrella and they will paint it then and there for you. Along with umbrellas they also paint on phone covers, backpacks and some other stuff which you can then carry as souvenirs.

There is also an outlet here where you can buy a lot of hand painted stuff including umbrellas in all possible sizes, table mats, trays, lanterns, wall hangings, wallets, handbags and a lot many other stuff. I am sure no one can return back from here without getting attracted to the beautiful hand painted stuff. And buying at least one souvenir.

6. Last day of our 5 days in Chiang Mai Itinerary

Today, we originally planned to do this day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai . But our flight was rescheduled due to which we had to leave early. So, after breakfast, we took a bus back to Bangkok. Then we reached Bangkok by evening 9:00pm. From the bus stop we took a cab to the Bangkok Airport from where we had our return flight. I highly recommend if you want to save on time do book a flight directly from Chiang Mai. Instead of taking a bus to Bangkok. You can conveniently book this shared transfer to and from Chiang Mai international Airport and your destination. As, our full day today went in the bus journey which could have been easily saved. Assuming you will have time to visit Chiang Rai on the last day of your 5 days in Chiang Mai Itinerary, we recommend this trip for you:

Chiang Rai Temple group tour from Chiang Mai

Summary of our original 5 days in Chiang Mai Itinerary

Of the many places that I have visited so far traveling around the world, Chiang Mai is one of the few where I can easily spend months. (If I had the time!). Two other similar places that made me feel the same way are Florence & Kodaikanal . Florence in particular has a lot of similarities with Chiang Mai. Particularly with respect to the laid back lifestyle. And yet the thriving art and culture scene. Maybe the vibes of such kind of places attract me. Overall, if I get a chance to return back to Thailand some day, Chiang Mai is definitely going to be the place I will land at. And I will love to do a lot more here. Which I couldn’t during my 5 days in Chiang Mai Itinerary.

More things to do in Chiang Mai

Some of the things I will love to do next time include this trip from Chiang Mai to Pai , taking a cooking class , this Chiang Mai Street food tour ,  further exploring the Chiang Mai street Art, taking this trip to Chiang Rai . Some of the adventure trips that you can take up around Chiang Mai are this cave exploration , cycling to the sticky waterfalls and this jungle zip line roller coaster ride . Further, of the many free things to do in Chiang Mai, practicing my water colour painting will always top the list. And there will be free walking tours like the one we took in the old town of Chiang Mai.

Oh you see…there is so much to do in Chiang Mai still on my list. So, I am definitely going to return back here some day. And I will suggest on your 5 days in Chiang Mai Itinerary plan, do consider some of the above activities from my wish list along with my itinerary.

PS: Some of our links are affiliated, this means we will earn a commission when you buy a service or product by clicking those links. However, this will have no extra cost for you.

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13 Awesome Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: April 2, 2024

When you’re looking for the best things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand, you can’t go past these top 13 attractions and activities. You’ll be amazed at all the choices for what to do in Chiang Mai!

From the world-class beaches in the South to the mountain forests in the North, Thailand really does have something for everyone.

While Bangkok is its bustling capital, the north is the heart of culture and creativity, and there are hundreds of things to do in Chiang Mai.

See the best things in Chiang Mai, such as the temples of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Chedi Luang or visit a national park such as Doi Inthanon or Doi Suthep-Pui.

Stay busy with Chiang Mai’s busy markets and street food in the old city, relax with meditation or a Thai massage, or even take a day trip to Chiang Rai or to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Thailand.

Table of Contents

1) Visit Elephant Nature Park

2) enjoy the cafe scene, 3) ride the mae hong son loop, 4) spend time with a local, 5) explore the buddhist temples, 6) hill tribe trekking in the surrounding mountains, 7) wander the sunday walking street markets, 8) visit san kamphaeng hot springs, 9) do a meditation course at wat doi suthep, 10) get a thai massage at the chiang mai women’s correctional institution, 11) cliff diving at the hang dong rock quarry, 12) get a sak yant from a monk, 13) go shopping at the night bazaar, where to stay in chiang mai, best backpacker’s hostel in chiang mai, best mid-range accommodation in chiang mai, best luxury hotel in chiang mai – 137 pillars, the best things to do in chiang mai.

You could easily spend a month (or more) in Northern Thailand, making Chiang Mai a base for exploration.

With the best restaurant and cafe scene in the country, excellent nightlife, a strong Buddhist presence, and enough activities to fill a calendar year, there is definitely no shortage of things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand!

It really is the cultural capital of Thailand, and no doubt you’ll fall in love with it on your next visit. Best of all it’s very affordable compared to the south of the country.

There are so many places to visit in Chiang Mai, and every day we found more and more to do! If you want to know what to do in Chiang Mai, have a read of this article and come visit the city for yourself!

READ MORE: When planning to visit Thailand be sure to use our comprehensive Travel Guide to Thailand !

Unfortunately, Thailand has a history of animal abuse to help boost its tourism economy. Activities such as riding an elephant or visiting the sedated tigers in many of the temples only add to this cruelty and should be avoided at all costs.

But in Chiang Mai, there is one sanctuary that is committed to education and rehabilitation. Elephant Nature Park is a rescue centre for elephants that have been abused by the tourism industry over the decades.

Here you can either visit the elephants in their natural environment or volunteer at Elephant Nature Park to help out around the sanctuary.

Riding elephants are prohibited; instead, the focus is on treating and protecting these beautiful creatures. Definitely one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai.

Elephant Nature Park is also the most expensive option for visiting elephants in Chiang Mai, but that’s because they are the absolute best company in town.

Ok, we admit it – we’re suckers for a city with a great cafe scene. And in Thailand few places offer the kind of coffee-hopping joys that Chiang Mai does.

Because we work online, we love a good cafe with tasty coffee, a comfortable setting, funky music and fast wifi.

After a huge morning seeking out all the Chiang Mai attractions, we’d often find ourselves in one of the quirky cafes to while away the afternoon hours.

Our favourites were Good Morning Chiang Mai and Bird’s Nest Cafe, but you could spend weeks bouncing from place to place and never get sick of it.

The cafes really are the bomb and one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai.

Ok, this isn’t exactly in Chiang Mai, but no trip to Northern Thailand would be complete without renting a scooter or motorbike and riding this incredible four-day loop.

Starting from Chiang Mai, you complete a circuit, spending nights in Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son and seeking out the beauty in Pai, before returning back to the city.

It is known to be one of the best motorbike loops in Southeast Asia, and after we spent 10 months riding two motorbikes 15’000km around the region, we can honestly agree that it is well worth doing.

There’s a lot to see and do along the way, and first up is the sensational mountain scenery. Make sure your travel cameras are charged because it’s seriously going to blow your mind.

There are also a lot of cool detours you can take that will take you up to some unique hill tribes. The people up there are very friendly and welcoming, but make sure you are dressed modestly and show them respect.

And if the temperature is getting the better of you, there are plenty of gorgeous waterfalls to stop off at and take a quick dip.

The Mae Hong Son Loop is probably up there with Chiang Rai as being one of the best trips from Chiang Mai. Many travelers hit up Chiang Rai afterwards, but save time for the Mae Hong Son Loop, you certainly won’t regret it!

(Seriously, don’t be one of those digital nomads or backpackers who spend all their time in the city and never leaves.)

Read our complete guide on riding the  Mae Hong Son Loop .

We’ve been lucky enough to spend months backpacking Thailand, and one thing we never tire of is the welcoming and generous culture of the Thai people.

When you’re in the country you will no doubt have countless incredible interactions that will help convince you Thailand may just be the best country in the world.

If you’re in the city and on a limited schedule, there are plenty of things to do with locals in Chiang Mai, such as trekking and a Thai cooking class.

Our absolute favourite experience with locals is a Thai cooking class. We did this one and absolutely loved it.

READ MORE: Check out our brand new 3-days in Chiang Mai itinerary guide!

Chiang Mai is full of amazing Buddhist temples, known as ‘wats’, and the majority of them are open to visitors. While Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is probably the most beautiful, the ones in the city should not be missed either.

Even if you don’t consider yourself spiritual, Chiang Mai’s temples are a must-see.

Definitely check out Wat Phra Singh, Wat Pan Tao, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Umong. One of the real unique things to do in Chiang Mai is to attend a monk chat.

Basically, this is where you can visit a temple and talk to the monks about Buddhism, life in the temples, or just about anything you can think of.

They are often very excited to practice their English, so it is mutually beneficial. Check out the posters plastered around the temples to see when the regular monk chats are on.

The monks might even give you some more tips on what to do in Chiang Mai!

A lot of people who visit Thailand start in the Southern islands, which are undoubtedly beautiful, but can lack a bit of culture and authenticity.

It is no wonder then that when people arrive in Chiang Mai, they are often craving to learn about the history and ethnic development of the country.

Chiang Mai’s jungles are a trekker’s paradise, filled with waterfalls, valleys, mountains and, perhaps more interestingly, various hill tribes.

Just make sure you sign up for your treks with a reputable and responsible tour operator, where the majority of the money will go to the local people of northern Thailand.

Avoid visiting the Karen long neck tribes.

These minority people have been forced to continue their paralysing traditions, at the insistence of the government, to keep growing the booming tourism economy.

This one trekking at Doi Suthep Mountain is really cool (booked with Klook).

Every Sunday night the centre of the Old City is closed to traffic, and food vendors, craftspeople and artists take over with their unique and bargain-priced street markets.

The night street markets are among the most popular of Chiang Mai’s tourist attractions.

It’s a wonderful evening out, and you’ll find locals and tourists alike wandering around, checking out the items for sale and just enjoying themselves.

If you’re looking to buy any souvenirs or trinkets this is the place to do it. You’ll find all kinds of things here, from traditional to contemporary, and usually at very good prices.

Or if you would rather spend your money on something different, you can get foot massages for only a few dollars, and literally stuff yourself silly with all the delicious local food that is scattered all over the markets.

Definitely one of the better things to do in Chiang Mai at night. The Saturday Night Market is also just as great!

Hot tip – don’t eat lunch on a Sunday, because you’re going to fill yourself up at the walking street markets for dinner!

Renowned for its therapeutic and relaxing qualities, the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs offers visitors a rejuvenating experience amidst serene surroundings.

It’s one of the best tourist destinations near Chiang Mai!

Visitors can immerse themselves in a series of hot mineral pools while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of tropical gardens.

Additionally, the site offers recreational activities such as egg-boiling in the natural hot springs and exploring the nearby Mae On Cave. With its tranquil ambiance and healing waters, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs offers a lovely day of relaxation and natural therapy.

Chiang Mai is full of ways to get in touch with your inner self, but perhaps the most famous one is the Doi Suthep Vipassana Meditation Centre . Situated on top of Suthep Mountain, this temple receives thousands of visitors every single day.

For those that want to stay longer and learn more about this life-changing method of meditation, the monks open their doors and provide courses that range from 3-28 days.

Speaking is forbidden during your time in the temple, and all your energies are focused on breathing and clearing your mind of thoughts and troubles.

Courses are run on donations. Alesha completed a 7-day course in 2014 and absolutely loved it.

Click here to find out more about her Vipassana meditation course in Chiang Mai .

READ MORE: Be sure to check out all of the great things to do in Krabi !

That’s right – get a Thai massage at the women’s prison . Before you turn your nose up at this idea, it is important to realise that this is actually a wonderful and hugely beneficial enterprise.

The women in this correctional facility are all serving short sentences for minor offences, and this is a way for them to learn a new skill to help them migrate back into society.

There’s a cafe and crafts store on site, and the massages and spa facilities are very reasonably priced (expect 180 Baht for a massage). One of the strangest, but more interesting, things to do in Chiang Mai.

If jumping off of high things into water sounds like your idea of fun (it is for us), then make sure you head out to the Hang Dong Rock Quarry in northern Thailand.

Originally used as a mine to clear out limestone, the quarry has now filled with water that glows a vibrant turquoise green. The massive pool is deep enough to launch from the highest cliffs, some of them up to 12m high.

If you would rather take a dip without taking the dive, there are plenty of spots you can just swim out.

It can be hard to find, so hiring a scooter or songthaew is the best way to get there. The spot is also sometimes called Chiang Mai Grand Canyon.

If you’re done with Chiang Mai sightseeing and you’d like to commemorate your northern Thailand adventure – get a sak yant.

If you’ve ever wanted to get a bamboo tattoo, then Chiang Mai is the place to do it. Luckily there’s an incredible way to have this experience too.

A sak yant is a traditional, sacred tattoo in the Buddhist religion that is performed by an Ajarn, or tattoo master.

These Ajarns are often Buddhist monks, and the sak yants given are ancient script and designs that offer protection and strength to the person wearing it.

Getting a sak yant is often something many travellers want to do on their trip around Thailand, but finding a clean and hygienic place to do it can be tough.

Not wanting to risk infection, we signed up for a sak yant tour with Where Sidewalks End and even had an English-speaking guide to help translate the entire experience for us with the monk.

It was one of the real highlights of our time in Chiang Mai, and if you’re interested in doing this yourself, we highly recommend it.

Check out our detailed article about our experience getting a sak yant in Chiang Mai .

The night bazaar in Chiang Mai is an absolute must for anyone who wants to dive into the myriad options for gifts and trinkets from Chiang Mai as well as various practical items for travellers.

Hundreds of vendors begin setting up their stalls around 6 PM. But the night bazaar doesn’t start kicking off until an hour or so later.

If you’re not in the mood to buy anything, there is plenty to see in just walking around the night bazaar.

Plus there are lots of places where you can pick up something to eat or drink. Thai street food is among the best in the world!

Chiang Mai Travel Guide

Organising a trip includes so much research and planning – it can be a bit tiring. To save you the hassle and time, we created a list to help you find accommodation options regardless of your budget situation.

The Chiang Mai International Airport is also just 20 minutes from the center of town, so transport to your accommodation should be quick and easy. If you’re wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai while visiting northern Thailand, read on!

Chiang Mai has a huge number of accommodation options to match every budget, from backpacker hostels and tiny guesthouses to 5-star luxury resorts.

We stayed in a few places while visiting Chiang Mai, and they were all very decent. If you are a backpacker, check out the options on Hostel World .

If you are a couple or would prefer something a bit higher-end, Booking.com has a huge selection of accommodations.

Which Neighbourhood in Chiang Mai?

If you’re wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai, it’s important to choose the right neighbourhood to stay in.

While a lot of ex-pats and digital nomads choose the popular Nimmanhaemin area for its abundance of cafes, bars and restaurants, the truth is it’s a bit far away from the tourist attractions.

If you’re a backpacker you’ll want to stay near the Old City, which is the most picturesque and is walking distance to most of the Chiang Mai points of interest.

However high-quality hotels are quite limited in the Old City, so you’ll have to venture further afield. Don’t worry though – you’re never too far from anything in Chiang Mai, and tuk-tuks and motorbike rentals are very cheap ways to get around.

There’s an overwhelming number of awesome hostels in Chiang Mai, and it can be daunting trying to narrow it down to just one.

But the hostel with the most good reviews is Hostel Lullaby . With over 1,000 positive traveler reviews, and a 9.7 out of 10 rating on Hostelworld, this is easily a top pick.

Travelers love that it’s centrally located in the Old City and social, yet not super loud like a party hostel.

There’s no shortage of mid-range accommodation in Chiang Mai, but one of our favourites is the Sakorn Residence and Hotel .

It’s just outside of the Old City, so it’s a quieter place to rest your head and it really has a stunning setup.

There’s a pool, huge, bright and clean rooms, a great restaurant and friendly staff. It really has just about everything you would want for a stay in the city.

If money isn’t an option and you really want to splurge out on the most brilliant accommodation in Chiang Mai, then you need to check out the beautiful and historic 137 Pillars .

We stayed here on our most recent visit to Chiang Mai and absolutely fell in love with it.

It is arguably the best 5-star hotel in the city, and when you see it for yourself you’ll understand why. The suites surround private courtyards, and there are art galleries and delicious cafes and restaurants on-site.

The history of the place is unrivalled, and the service provided is seriously next level. The rooms feature deep, ancient teak timbers and huge 4-post beds like you’d see in the movies.

Seriously, if you want to live in pure luxury in Chiang Mai, this is the place to do it.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Great list of things to do in chiang mai, thanks for sharing great information.

Thank you. Glad it was helpful.

What a fantastic Post! This is so chock full of useful information, most concise step-by-step guide, I was looking for some places around Thailand, and your blog really helped me. Thanks for sharing the information. Can you suggest me some places to visit around Phuket?

Hi Finnich, we are so happy this article was helpful. As for Phuket, we have an article about accommodation https://www.nomadasaurus.com/where-to-stay-in-phuket/ and doing a detox if you are interested in that https://www.nomadasaurus.com/healthy-living-detox-atmanjai/ . As for things to do, we did some day tours out to some islands. There are many nice beaches to visit but do keep in mind they are all going to be busy as Phuket is a holiday destination. Do your research about visiting any animal entertainment places. There are many bad ones out there and treat the animals horribly. Have a great time and enjoy Thailand.

Thanks a lot for this article ! Very helpful ! I have a question regarding the message in the women correctional institution. Is it actually inside the Prison that is located outside the old city ?

It is located near the prison (not inside) and they have an area set up. It is like you are walking into a message salon. There are officers there supervising.

Thanks for your detailed article on Chiang Mai! We love it there because it is so great for digital nomads. We try to stay a few months every year to work on our blog. Gotta make it in time for the lantern festival one year!!

You are welcome. Glad it was helpful. It definitely is a great place to work. The internet is great. We have never been to the lantern festival. We just missed it a couple of years back when we moved there. Have a great time.

hi , thank you for this blog. its awesome..! you guys spent lot of time there. I’m also planing to visit Chiang Mai. But I won’t have that much time to spend in there. may be 2-3 days. I want to visit Buddhist temples and visit local area. could you give me your suggestions where to visit? I really really appreciate it.

Hi Varuni, that is awesome you are travelling to Chiang Mai. You will have a great time. There is so many Buddhist temples to visit, so we know what you mean about seeing the best ones.

Our friends over at Southeast Asia Backpackers have written a great post about the top 5 temples. Check it out. https://southeastasiabackpacker.com/chiang-mai-temples-top-5/ and if you get them all done and want more check out our friends, Hannah and Adam over at Getting Stamped’s post https://www.gettingstamped.com/chiang-mai-temples/

Have a great trip. :_)

Wow, thanks heaps guys for the tips and recommendations. I’m going to Thailand next month for my birthday and by reading your blog you guys really did inspire me to adventure and explore Thailand. Such a beautiful country 🙂

Hi Sarahia, so awesome. You are going to have a great time in Chiang Mai. Happy birthday for next month. Have a great trip.

Waoo, Thailand is really awesome. I wish to visit there. Thanks for sharing such amazing images and information about Thailand. I appreciate your blog post.

Hope you get there one day. Glad you enjoyed our post. 🙂

As a local farang living and working here in Chiang Mai it takes a bit to impress me when it comes to blogging and writing articles about this city. Anyway you guys made it and I enjoyed your writing which gave me some great flashbacks from when I came to CM the very first time as a tourist, hungry for adventures.

Keep it up thanks

Hi Jack, Thank you so much. We love visiting CM, no matter how many time we have been there. You really can find more awesome things to do every time. How long have you been living there for? We stayed for a short period of 3 months one time and really enjoyed it. We tried so many local restaurants and loved food shopping at the local markets. Hope you are going ok with the air pollution at the moment. It is crazy how terrible the air gets in the burning period.

Love all of the helpful information I am finding in your blog. Love the opening video and am wondering where this lovely via ferrata is located.

Thank you so much. Glad the article was helpful. That must of been our “world’s most dangerous hike” video. It is located in China.

About learning more about Thai culture and Hmong, Karen and other hilltribes and rural life: I would totally recommend for openminded travellers is to live in a (hill tribe) village for a few days.

We stayed through Duara Travels in 2 different villages 3 nights each, first being a Thai farmer village with the most amazing vegetarian food.

And the second was a Karen village on the slopes of Doi Inthanon – but no longnecks for display, only warm-hearted hosts. The idea is to really to connect with the locals and participate in their daily lives, far from the tourist scene.

There was also 3 thirth village available but as we are travelling with two kids we did not go, as the journey would have been too much. But may be next time, as those days spend with our new friends are the total highlight of our numerous travels.

If you’re a nature lover you’ll definitely fall in love with Chiang Mai. Aside from enjoying the stunning scenery there are lots of activities that you can also do here. Whenever I go here I usually go to the elephant sanctuary, sticky waterfall, explore the temples and talk to the monks and also enroll myself in a short cooking class.

Totally agree with you. They are great places to visit. We are looking forward to going back to Chiang Mai and going back to these attractions. 🙂

If you’re talking massage Chiang Mai is also one of the few places you’ll get a Tok Sen or hammer massage. Rather than using their hands the therapist uses a dowl-like bit of wood that they hit with a hammer. Despite it sounding a bit like a building site it’s surprisingly relaxing!

Oh wow. That sounds interesting. Thanks for the tip Helen. We will have to check that our next time.

A CM local stumbled upon your blog. Normally I would just read but there is a misunderstanding I’ve found (again and again and again in many foreigner’s blog.)

…Avoid visiting the Karen long neck tribes. These minority people have been forced to continue their paralysing traditions, at the insistence of the government, to keep growing the booming tourism economy…. >>>> 1. No forcing. They do that on therir own will. Of cause they can give up their tradition whenever you want and nobody would do any thing to force them to be back to their tradition. They just don’t do that (give up their tradition) beacuse it gaive them money.

2. Most of your tourists think they are Thai and the gov fored them to live that way. Fact is they are not Thai. Thai is nationality, not race. Problem is that many of the hilltribes has no Thai nationality. They are refugee from neighbor: Myanmar, Laos. That’s the case of many long neck Karen you see.

3. What most of tourists (roughly 99.99 percent from what I’ve read/talk) don’t understand is that Thai nationality is given by blood, not by birthplace like most Western countries. That’s why some who are not Thai, even though they gave birth in TH, sill be Myanmese, Lao, etc. That’s included these hioll tribes.

4. For those hilltribes who has Thai nationality they can gain any access Thai people have. I’m teacher in an acdemic institution in the north and I have many student who are hilltribes. They can get student loan. Some even got the Queen scholarship. They can get health insurrance and any benefit others Thai have. Of cause some of my student are from long neck Karen tribe. They give up their tradition on their own and nobody forced them to be back to their ways.

No offense, I know you like Thai. I’m appreciate that fact. But, like most tourists, You don’t understand us and, worse, you assume based on your own thought. And worst, they would not listen to us no matter how we explain them.

Hope you are not one of those tourist, otherwise, just ignore my explantion. Thank you.

I loved Chiang Mai! Been there two years in a row for weeks. One of my favorite things was to walk or bike around and visit the temples. I went to ENP as well, but I thought it was too big and touristy and you had not really a lot of time with the elephants. x

Hi Stephanie, That’s awesome. Chiang Mai is a beautiful place. Sorry you felt like that about ENP. We felt like we had a lot of time viewing the elephants. We didn’t look at our visit to the park as spending time with the elephants close up but by watching them, learning about them and their past and what the park is doing for them to better their lifes. There are a lot of tourist that visit this park, but this is the same as everywhere else in Chiang Mai. The elephants looked happy and well looked after and by having very little human contact is amazing. They have had a hard life. Thank you for your comment and happy travels 🙂

Great post!

Chiang Mai is a perfect gateway from the hustle and bustle of big city, like Bangkok. I’d definitely use this list for my next trip to Chiang Mai – thanks!

Besides exploring Chiang Mai town, I’d recommend to drive a bit up north to Mae Rim! It’s only 25 mins driving and the nature there is incredible. It is a perfect place to go for a day trip. The waterfalls and butterfly farm are the highlights of this place.

Thank you so much for the tip. That’s great. We love being in nature. Glad our post can be handy for when you go to Chiang Mai again. Happy travels

Great read! Are there any tours or hill tribes you recommend visiting that are ethical?

Hi Lauren, sorry we have no idea. There is a lot of websites that have written about Chiang Mai. Maybe try Together in Thailand, Tieland to Thailand or Travelfish. Sorry we can’t help you anymore. All the best and we hope you find the right tour. 🙂

Love this list! I finally made it to Hang Dong on my last visit to Chiang Mai, and I couldn’t believe I never heard about it during the year I spent living and teaching in Thailand. It’s amazing, and a definitely must! I’ll have to check our your suggested cafes on my next visit 🙂

That’s awesome Jessica. We are stoked you had a great time out there. Thank you for reading.

A great list of things and I’m so annoyed I didn’t get to see the Hang Dong Rock Quarry, I love jumping off things like that! Chiang Mai is amazing so I’ll be going back an I’ll definitely be doing some of the stuff off this list!

I also did a Bungy jump just outside of Chiang Mai (AJ Hackett certified) and the Zip lining, both great fun things to do around Chiang Mai.

Hope all is well back in home and you can get back on the road soon!

Wow we didn’t even realise you could bungy jump just outside Chiang Mai. We will have to hit that up next time. Next time you head back be sure to head out to the Quarry. Thank you for your concern. We have been back on the road again for the last 5 months and all is well. We were run down and some rest definitely did the job. Cheers Oscar

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11 things to know before traveling to Chiang Mai, Thailand

Apr 19, 2024 • 7 min read

These local tips can help a first-time visitor plan their visit to Chiang Mai © oneclearvision / Getty Images

There’s so much more to Chiang Mai , Thailand ’s Rose of the North, than first meets the eye.

Though firmly on the Thai travel circuit, Chiang Mai often comes in third for visitors determined to see Bangkok before immediately heading south to the tropical islands . Those who trek north, however, are certainly rewarded. Here, countless historic temples, street stalls, jungle-covered hills, artisan workshops, street markets and more coffee shops than you ever thought were possible are packed into a relatively small area – the Old City is just one square mile.

A few days here can stretch into a week… and then two… or more.

Lucky enough to call Chiang Mai home for nearly a decade, I still find it endlessly captivating. Here’s what to know before traveling to Chiang Mai, so you can start making the most of your stay as soon as you arrive. 

Ready to plan your trip? Don't miss the top experiences in Chiang Mai

1. Chiang Mai is both a city and a province

As is typical for Thailand, the province name is also the name of its largest hub. (Other examples include the city of Chiang Rai in Chiang Rai Province or the island of Phuket in Phuket Province.) Keep this in mind while booking transportation or accommodation.

2. You’ll likely want to stay longer than you first expect

A few days isn’t enough to uncover Chiang Mai’s charms, which often lie in its daily rhythms. Do yourself a favor and plan to stay for at least five nights or even more, if possible. Between exploring town and squeezing in a couple of day trips , there are plenty of ways to fill your stay. Also, time your visit to stay over the weekend since some of the city’s night markets only happen on Saturdays and Sundays.

3. Keep at least one day open

Spending a leisurely morning over elaborate coffee concoctions at a picture-perfect cafe, treating yourself to a two-hour massage, fitting in a cooking or yoga class, running into someone from your hometown on the street – Chiang Mai natives and transplants take their reputation for appreciating “slow living” seriously, and you should, too. Keep at least one day unscheduled to simply wander, enjoy the relaxed pace, and stay open to whatever serendipitous encounter or decision may unfold.

Traveling beyond Chiang Mai? Here are some things to know before exploring the rest of Thailand

4. Plan to eat well

Eating may be Thailand’s national pastime, but Chiang Mai’s bounty of nearby farms harvesting fresh produce, countless street stalls, and affordable prices (you can still find bowls of noodle soup for just a dollar or two) take it to a new level. You’re never far from another satisfying snack, memorable meal or refreshing beverage.

5. Try northern Thai delicacies

Known for using lots of herbs, spice and pork, northern Thai food tends to have a unique funkiness to it that you won’t find elsewhere. You’ve probably heard of kôw soy , the Chiang Mai specialty of egg noodles topped with a rich curry broth and pickled garnishes, but that’s just the beginning. Look for kaffir lime leaf-stuffed sai oui sausage, spicy green chili dip known as nám prík nùm , roasted tomato and ground pork chili dip called naam prik ong , and kà·nŏm jeen nám ngée·o , thin sticky rice noodles topped with a spicy, tomato-based broth.

Tong Tem Toh in the Nimmanhaemin neighborhood and Huen Phen in the Old City are both solid places to start your northern Thai culinary journey.

Hungry? Check out Thailand's other unmissable food experiences

6. Make time for markets

There’s truly a market, or talat , happening morning, noon and night. Various fresh markets will open before dawn and close by late morning, while others open in the afternoon and early evening for the after-work rush. Meanwhile, Talat Muang Mai , a wholesale produce market, stays open all day and is particularly busy late at night when farmers arrive from the surrounding hills hauling their latest crop.

Talat Wororot , also known as Kad Luang in the northern dialect, on the east side of town along the Mae Ping River, is Chiang Mai’s longest running market and still a popular local destination for everything from home goods and flower garlands during the day to clothes and streetside fare during the evening.

As the sun sets, a number of Chiang Mai night markets pop up. You’ll find clusters of street food stalls, many of which have had the same vendors for a decade or more, at Talat Pratu Chiang Mai or Talat Pratu Chang Pheuak while the weekend Saturday Walking Street and Sunday Walking Street are popular spots for locals, Thai tourists and foreign visitors alike. 

7. Holidays in Chiang Mai are extra magical

Songkran, Thailand’s new year celebration held each April, and Loi Krathong, in November, are both widely celebrated across Chiang Mai with parades around the Old City, elaborate decorations, city-wide events, and lots of photo ops. Loi Krathong in Chiang Mai is particularly beautiful, thanks in part to the added northern holiday of Yee Peng and countless illuminated paper lanterns released into the sky. While the town can start feeling a little overrun with visitors during these times, it’s worth the crowds for the close proximity to so many events and activities.

8. Dress (relatively) modestly

Even in the height of the hot season, Thailand is a fairly modest country when it comes to clothing, particularly for women. This applies even more in the north, which is away from the beaches and often less-touristed than Bangkok and the islands. “Polite” dress, meaning covered shoulders, chests, and thighs, is required for visiting temples, but it's often expected in everyday life, too. That said, everyone tends to keep things comfortable and casual. No one will say anything (to your face) about what you’re wearing, but you’ll both show respect and often receive more respect when showing less skin.

9. Good doctors and dentists are easily accessible in Chiang Mai

While you hopefully won’t have to go to the doctor for any reason, if you get sick or hurt, you can easily walk into any hospital and get care. This includes the city’s go-to, private hospital for foreigners and locals with money to spare, Chiang Mai Ram, which is in the center of town. Find a check-in desk, and staff will point you in the right direction. Dentist offices are also dotted throughout the city and readily accept new patients. Due for a cleaning? This is the place to do it. 

10. Be aware of the "smoky season"

Thailand has three seasons  – hot, rainy, and cold – but Chiang Mai also often experiences what locals call the “smoky season.” Often starting sometime in February and lasting through the hot season until the rains begin at the end of April or early May, Chiang Mai sees smoky skies and poor air quality from slash and burn farming practices. Every year is different depending on the weather patterns and the government’s current restrictions, but if you’ll be in Chiang Mai in February, March or April, you can expect some level of pollution. Face masks are readily available and most accommodations and indoor restaurants will have air purifiers running 24/7.

11. Traffic is calmer in Chiang Mai, but you are still likely to be stopped by police when driving a motorbike

There are plenty of ways to get around Chiang Mai , from túk-túks (autorickshaws) to the local rót daang (literally "red trucks", which are shared taxis), and traffic is much calmer than in cities like Bangkok.

Zipping around town on a motorbike is arguably the quickest, most convenient way to get around – if you know what you’re doing! As a foreigner, however, you’ll likely get stopped at a police checkpoint. Unless you have a valid Thai motorbike license, you’ll often receive a ticket. Be polite, stay calm, and pay the fine. They’ll then let you keep driving on your merry way. Also, always wear a helmet. It’s the law, even though sometimes it seems more like a suggestion than a rule.

From  túk-túks to taxis  here's more guidance for traveling around in Chiang Mai

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12 of the Best Chiang Mai Day Trips You Shouldn’t Miss

Updated December 5, 2022

Chiang Mai is a fantastic city, with loads to do to fill up your days with Chiang Mai sightseeing.

Sometimes you just want to leave all of those expats and cheap pad thai — just for a day, I promise — behind, and explore what’s just beyond the city on a few Chiang Mai day trips.

I’ve put together a list of 12 day trips from Chiang Mai for you to peruse in case you get bitten by the adventure bug.

See wildlife, go trekking, and embrace the cultural offerings with these fantastic options, all doable in a day.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

Chiang Mai Day Trips: Tips Before You Go

No matter which day trips from Chiang Mai you’re hitting, there are a few things you should know before you go.

Let’s take a look at relevant tips for your next Chiang Mai day trip so that you’re not adventuring without all of the info!

How many days do you need in Chiang Mai? At the very least, you can get a cursory overview of Chiang Mai in two days, with one more full day reserved for a day trip.

I have a Chiang Mai itinerary for you that will help you plot out the highlights. Admittedly, we had four days in Chiang Mai, and it still didn’t feel like enough.

That’s what repeat visits are for!

What is the best month to visit Chiang Mai? Ideally, you’ll want to avoid the rainy season of May through October when planning not only Chiang Mai day trips but any travel to Thailand .

Yep. It’s a long rainy season.

As Thailand remains a budget destination , you don’t have to do too much worrying about traveling during peak holiday times.

You just may have less choice when it comes to flights and accommodations, so it’s always best to book ahead.

Do I need a car for Chiang Mai day trips? Traveling in northern Thailand is much different than navigating the madness that is Bangkok . You’ll find that the self-drive option on any Chiang Mai day tour is much more doable.

Reserving your vehicle ahead of time using a site like Hotwire  or  Priceline will offer you the best deals, but most hotels and hostels will also be able to link you up with local car rentals.

Renting a scooter or a motorbike is also a popular option if you’re more coordinated than I am.

Otherwise, I include some specifics on all of the Chiang Mai day trips below as far as public transportation and guided tour options.

Where should I stay in Chiang Mai? As these are day trips, you’re better off staying in Chiang Mai. Lucky for you, I have a guide to the best Chiang Mai accommodations .

I have options there for everything from hotels to boutique-style accommodations to apartment rentals, depending on your needs and budget.

Is there anything else I need to know about day trips from Chiang Mai? If you’re visiting temples , or wats, a conservative dress code applies. Cover your knees and shoulders or risk being denied entry to these special places.

If you’re visiting in the rainy season of May through October, prepare for inclement weather. Book tours with the understanding that some will go rain or shine, which may not be as fun as it sounds.

The Best Chiang Mai Day Trips

Now, for the main event, 12 Chiang Mai day trips that will have you wishing you had more time in this special part of the world. Any travel times listed reflect self-drives to these day trips from Chiang Mai Old City unless otherwise noted. You may add (or even save!) time on guided tours or public transport.

1. Huay Tung Tao Lake/Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir (20 minutes)

The manmade Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir , also referred to as Huay Tung Tao Lake, is a popular spot for locals to gather with their picnics and good vibes.

On a warm, sunny day, expect cyclists, walkers, and swimmers at the lake, taking advantage of the amenities that surround it. Those amenities include delicious eats on top of cool drinks, as a reward for the physical activity you enjoy here.

If all you can muster is renting an inner tube to float along in the lake, that’s cool, too.

Surrounding the lake, you’ll have expansive views of the mountains. It doesn’t get more relaxing than this.

How do I get to Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir from Chiang Mai? To get to Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir from Chiang Mai, use one of the many bike rental shops in and around Chiang Mai to get there using pedal power. The reservoir is only about a 20-minute self-drive from Chiang Mai’s city center, as well.

For guided experiences in and around the lake, check out these highly-rated tours below:

2. Saraphi Cooking Class (25 minutes)

This submission is courtesy of Greta from Greta’s Travels. Greta is a travel blogger who escaped office life to share her stories and advice about traveling the world.

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Chiang Mai, you have to add a cooking class at Grandma’s Home Cooking School to your Thailand itinerary .

Located in Saraphi, less than a 30-minute drive from Chiang Mai, it’s the perfect place for a different kind of travel activity.

During your cooking class, you will learn how to cook some classic Thai dishes like pad thai, Panang curry, and mango sticky rice for dessert.

For every dish, you will be able to decide if you want to have it with meat, fish, or as a vegetarian option, as well as the level of spice that suits your taste buds. Doing a  cooking class in Chiang Mai is a great opportunity to taste some delicious food, but also learn more about Thai culture and cuisine.

How do I get to Saraphi from Chiang Mai? You can get to Saraphi from Chiang Mai on a guided tour. Visitors to the cooking school can visit on either a half-day trip or a full-day trip. Half-day sessions are timed for the morning or evening.

The only difference is that on the full-day tour you get to do also food shopping at a local market along with a tour of the farm. The cooking class and menu are the same. The tour also includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Chiang Mai, which is very convenient.

3. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (30 minutes)

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is what you’d call a destination temple.

In addition to the views you’ll get from the top of this wat on its mountaintop perch, this is one of the most sacred temples in Thailand, a destination not only for tourists like yourself but locals, too.

The climb up is an adventure in itself, 306 steps surrounded by serpents.

Take it slow.

According to Buddhist culture, it’s a symbol of merit to make the climb, so if you’re worried that you’re not worthy, you will be if you head on up there.

Note: If you’re unable to tackle that many stairs, there’s a funicular that will take you up to the top for 50 baht (less than 2 USD) from morning until dusk. 

Once at the top, you’ll be treated to expansive views from Doi Suthep. Spend some time exploring the surrounding gardens, as well.

The Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple is located in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, a national park combo if you will.

In addition to the lovely flora and fauna you’ll find within the park, you can also spend time exploring Bhubing Palace, the winter home of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and the park’s waterfalls.

How do I get to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep from Chiang Mai? To get to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep from Chiang Mai, take one of the songthaews parked in front of the Chiang Mai Zoo, or a shared taxi. If you’re driving yourself, it’s just 30 minutes to the gate.

If you’re exploring the park in addition to your temple adventure, it’d be best to have a set of wheels with you or a guide. Check out these highly-rated options for a guided tour or additional Chiang Mai tours:

4. Mae Sa Waterfall (35 minutes)

This submission is courtesy of Cassie from Cassiethehag.com. Cassie is a New Zealand-based travel blogger who specializes in solo backpacking as a neurodivergent woman. 

Mae Sa Waterfall is a gorgeous multi-level waterfall that is an easy day trip from Chiang Mai, since it’s just over a 30-minute drive.

There is a short walk up to the falls surrounded by lush rainforest scenery. Mae Sa Waterfall itself is beautiful to look at, but aside from being scenic, it also is made up of up to 10 levels.

The clear water pools that lie beneath are popular swimming spots, especially on a hot day, of which there are many in this region.

It’s definitely worth carefully walking up to the top levels as they are particularly beautiful.

The walk is short and fairly easy, but it’s worth taking sneakers or walking sandals, particularly when it’s slippery underfoot. After enjoying the water, take a stroll around the other paths in the park as the nature around here is beautiful .

For a longer day trip, you can combine the Mae Sa falls with the nearby Queen Sirkit Botanic Gardens, or by taking a drive around the wider Mae Sa Valley region, stopping at various viewpoints along the way.

How do I get to the Mae Sa Waterfall from Chiang Mai? To get to the Mai Sa Waterfall from Chiang Mai, a self-drive is the easiest option. It’s only a 35-minute drive from the city.

On top of your own self-drive — or a scooter rental if you’re feeling adventurous — order a taxi over the Grab app or take a songthaew for a small fee.

Fun fact: If you have your own set of wheels, you can see both the Mae Sa Waterfall and Bua Tong, or the Sticky Waterfalls, in one day. Bua Tong is another 45-minute drive north of Mae Sa, doable in a day.

One word of advice no matter what you decide to do is to make sure your driver is clear on the location. I nearly ended up at the wrong destination, which is just another day traveling with ADHD!

Interested in a guided trip? Check out these options in and around the falls:

5. Lamphun (40 minutes)

The Lamphun province is a day trip for travelers looking for a cultural escape.

As one of the oldest settlements across Thailand, you’ll find evidence of kingdoms and dynasties long gone in this region of the country.

Start at the Hariphunchai National Museum for some background on the province, and artifacts that represent Lamphun’s cultural heritage. The entry fee is 100 baht, or about 3 USD.

If you’re not done with temples just yet, Wat Phra That Haripunchai is the most famous in these parts, with a chedi dating back to 1418.

The nearby Wat Chama Thewi is impressive as well, a 13th-century temple with chedis that go back even further.

I’m talking 8th-century chedis here.

Nature-seekers will want to visit Doi Khun Than National Park on the border of Lamphun and Lampang provinces. Aggressive hikers will like the option to explore the park’s four peaks, but easier options abound for those looking to stretch their legs on shorter paths.

How do I get to Lamphun from Chiang Mai? To get to Lamphun from Chiang Mai, you can travel to Lamphun by both bus and train. The blue buses that stop at Warorot Market in Chiang Mai — and labeled Lamphun — will get you there, along with the purple-and-white buses leaving from the Chang Phueak Bus Terminal.

Keep in mind that you’ll be let off on the main highway in Lamphun province, necessitating a taxi or other mode of transportation once you’ve made it to Lamphun.

Several trains running southbound from Chiang Mai will get you to Lamphun as well. The train station in Lamphun is a little over a mile from town.

If you’re driving yourself, many of the highlights in Lamphun are accessible by a 30-minute drive from Chiang Mai’s city center. Highway 106 is the most scenic option, as you’ll be surrounded by rubber trees craning their necks onto the road as you cruise along.

To peruse your options for guided tours in and around Lamphun, check out these highly-rated options below:

6. Bua Tong Waterfalls/Sticky Waterfalls (1 hour)

This popular Chiang Mai day trip is known by its more casual name, the Sticky Waterfalls.  The sticky aspect comes in when you’re climbing the rocks around the falls on your bare feet.

Thanks to the limestone and mineral deposits, you’re less likely to slip, as both cause the necessary friction underneath your feet that keeps you from falling.

Ropes help nervous visitors navigate the five levels of the falls.

Once you reach the top, those who brought swimsuits are able to cool off with a dip in the falls.

Not interested in a sticky climb?

Stick around for some of the other sites here, namely Namphu Chet Si, a sacred spring, and jungle hikes for those looking to get less wet.

There is no entrance fee to explore the falls.

How do I get to the Bua Tong Waterfalls from Chiang Mai?  To get to the Bua Tong Waterfalls from Chiang Mai, hire a car or drive yourself on a fairly easy trip of about an hour from Chiang Mai.

If you insist on taking public transportation, the less expensive but also less efficient option, catch a minibus from the Chang Phueak Bus Station heading to Prempracha. In order to avoid confusion — and miss your stop — let the driver know where you’re going. Keep in mind that you’ll have nearly a two-mile walk from the drop-off point to the falls.

If you’d prefer a guided tour, check out the options below:

7. Wat Tham Chiang Dao & Chiang Dao Cave (1 hour 25 minutes)

Wat Tham Chiang Dao and the Chiang Dao Cave it sits in front of are part of an off-the-beaten-path Chiang Mai day trip for the more adventurous traveler.

Seeing the temple itself involves a bit of a climb, but it’s well worth it for the gardens and Buddha statues you’ll encounter once you’re there.

To see the unlit chambers of the caves, including Tham Ma, Tham Kaew, and Tham Nam, you’ll need to hire a local guide upon arrival.

At one time, visitors were able to explore on their own with a lantern, but I imagine safety concerns were an issue here.

Once inside the cave system, your guide will point out limestone features and, if you’re lucky, a bat or two. They’ll walk you to a sleeping Buddha, stalagmite and stalactite rock formations, and share local legends.

It’s a magical experience.

You’ll also have no regrets over a guided tour through the chambers when you realize how claustrophobic it can get down there.

The entrance fee is 40 baht for the temple, or about 1 USD. Prices for guided tours of the cave vary but can be booked on-site upon arrival.

How do I get to Wat Tham Chiang Dao from Chiang Mai? To get to Wat Tham Chiang Dao from Chaing Mai, you can catch a bus from the Chang Phuak Bus Station north of the Old City in Chiang Mai. The bus runs about every half hour.

Wat Tham Chiang Dao is about a 90-minute drive from Chiang Mai, just north of Srilanna National Park. The road there is a straight shot north and a fairly easy trip.

If you’re looking for a guided tour, check out these highly-rated options:

8. Elephant Nature Park (1 hour 30 minutes*)

*There is no self-drive option to Elephant Nature Park. You’ll be picked up and dropped off by park staff on the day of your visit.

One of the most magical day trips we’ve ever taken, let alone when thinking about our own Chiang Mai day trips, was our trip to the Elephant Nature Park, an elephant sanctuary.

I have a complete guide to not only the Elephant Nature Park but additional ethical elephant sanctuaries in and around Chiang Mai. It’s so important to do your research, as there are parks that purport to be ethical when they allow things like elephant rides.

Elephant parks that allow you to ride elephants are not ethical.

Do take a look at my guide to Chiang Mai elephant parks so that you know you’re visiting a legitimate sanctuary:

A Guide to Visiting Chiang Mai Elephant Parks

Note: You also won’t see any Chiang Mai day trips here that exploit tigers — sorry/not sorry Tiger Kingdom — or people. There just isn’t a universe where I can endorse visits to the Kayan tribes, or long-neck women, after having done more research on the topic, or having you petting captive tigers.

How do I get to the Elephant Nature Park from Chiang Mai? You can get to the Elephant Nature Park from Chiang Mai on a guided tour. All visits to the Elephant Nature Park include transportation to and from your accommodations in Chiang Mai, with a pickup on the morning of your visit.

Park staff will get you back to Chiang Mai by dinnertime unless you book an overnight, so you can talk about all the elephants you met on your visit over a hot plate of noodles.

9. Doi Inthanon National Park (1 hour 35 minutes)

Hikers looking to explore Thailand’s national parks should start with Doi Inthanon National Park, the roof of Thailand, on their visit to Chiang Mai.

For tips on what you’ll see there, the highlights you shouldn’t miss, and more, check out my complete guide to Doi Inthanon National Park .

How do I get to Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai? There are several ways to get to Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai. Visit on a private tour using the tour booking site  Viator for efficiency’s sake and a great time. That’s what we did!

The park is also accessible on a self-drive tour. You’ll read more on that in the guide I send you to above.

I would not recommend attempting this one using public transportation, in this case a series of songthaews, as you’ll still need wheels to explore the park once you get to the main gate.

If you’re looking for your own guided tour or Chiang Mai private tours, check out these highly-rated options for your Chiang Mai Doi Inthanon tour:

10. Pai (2 hours 45 minutes)

This submission is courtesy of Allan from Live Less Ordinary , an Asia-focused lifestyle and travel resource that is full of info for traveling in comfort while still on a budget.

Admittedly, Pai does have a well-known backpacker reputation, but there is a lot more to the city in the Mae Hong Soon Province than cliches that may come with that label.

Tourist attractions on your day trip to Pai from Chiang Mai include the surrounding tea gardens that make Pai a destination for tea lovers, Pai River trips, waterfall treks, hot springs, and Pai Canyon, home to fantastic views and hiking trails.

The central Pai Walking Street and night market are also rather charming, tucked beneath the surrounding hills.

Locally, there is a rather mixed culture with the usual northern Lanna traditions as well as various hill tribes that surround the area.

Pai is one of the more touristy destinations in the north, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

It means there are plenty of options for cheap accommodations for those who plan to stay longer, on top of visitors having to work just a bit harder if they want an off-the-beaten-path experience.

How do I get to Pai from Chiang Mai? To get to Pai from Chiang Mai, the most popular option for road trips in Northern Thailand is a self-drive of the Mae Hong Song loop. It starts and ends in Chiang Mai, following some of the most stunning scenery looping around through the city of Mae Hong Son.

The entire road trip takes roughly nine hours total, and the first half alone is said to have 1,864 turns before reaching Mae Hong Song.

It can then make you a bit queasy.

Along the way, the route passes through mountains, rainforests, viewpoints, and villages, including Pai.

If you’re visiting Pai on a day trip alone, it’s nearly a three-hour drive one way from Chiang Mai, making for a long round trip.

Those with more time may want to make use of public transportation.

Buses run from Chiang Mai to Pai hourly from the early morning hours into mid-afternoon, but those hairpin turns don’t go away on a public bus. In fact, they’re quite amplified.

If you’re looking for a Pai guided experience or car hire options for your day trip, check out these highly-rated options:

11. Wat Rong Khun/The White Temple (2 hours 50 minutes)

Wat Rong Khun is known as the White Temple for a reason.

This unique place in Chiang Rai is all white everything, and doubles, quite appropriately, as an art exhibit space.

On your visit, you’ll find that this place pairs elements of both modern design and traditional Buddhist architecture in quite a magical way.

Try to spend enough time here to catch the hidden symbolism throughout, and admire the quirky details.

To get to the temple once you’re there, you’ll cross a short bridge into what is now the art space, featuring contemporary scenes related to both the religious aspects of the wat and popular culture.

Visiting the temple is free for locals. International tourists must pay a nominal fee of 50 baht, or less than 2 USD.

How do I get to Wat Rong Khun from Chiang Mai? To get to Wat Rong Khun from Chiang Mai, you have a few options. To make use of public transportation, catch a GreenBus from the Chiang Mai Provincial Arcade Transport Station. You’ll find they have some VIP options when booking for a more comfortable ride.

If you’re already in Chiang Rai, you can catch a bus from Chiang Rai’s interprovincial bus station. You’ll see buses labeled White Temple there, in English even. The ride from there is about 40 minutes.

Due to the length of the trip, it may make the most sense to hire a private guide. Hired cars are quite affordable throughout Thailand, and your accommodations could likely connect you to some local options.

If you’re looking for a small group guided tour, check out these highly-rated options:

12. Jungle Ziplining (travel times vary)

Chiang Mai day trippers looking for a shot of adrenaline may enjoy a day trip of ziplining through the surrounding jungles.

There are a number of companies that will take you on your adventure to the jungle. The top-rated tours on TripAdvisor are Flight of the Gibbon  and Zipline Skyline Adventure .

The claim to fame for Flight of the Gibbon is that you get a chance to see wild gibbons in the rainforest on their tours, alongside their own conservation efforts that they partake in.

Fun fact: Although the act of ziplining has been around for hundreds of years, ziplining gained steam as a practical venture in Central America in the 1970s. Scientists were looking for ways to more easily get from Point A to Point B in the rainforest canopies they were studying, and so they zipped!

How do I get to my zipline adventure from Chiang Mai? To get to your zipline adventure from Chiang Mai, most companies will include pickup and dropoff from your Chiang Mai accommodations, which is quite convenient.

If you’re looking for a ready-made tour where the booking’s done for you, check out these guided tours below:

Have you been to Chiang Mai and any of these fabulous Chiang Mai day trips? What did I miss?

If you’ve been further afield, like the Golden Triangle or Pai Mountain, tell me about it. Share your experience with me in the comments!

Photo credits: Bantita Wongwai (1), ApisitWilaijit (2), Greta Omoboni (3), Andrey Khrobostov (5), Boudewijn Huysmans (6), luvvstudio (7), wassamon (8), Allan Wilson (11), SomchaiChoosiri (12), phoonperm (13)

Ready for Thailand?

Your Flight:  I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, especially during busy times (e.g. school breaks), you should use  Skyscanner .

It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.

Deals to Bangkok are fairly easy to come by, especially if you’re traveling outside of the high season (December-February). From there, you’ll be able to catch a regional flight to Chiang Mai, or take a comfortable bus ride north.

Your Accommodations:  I recommend both  Booking.com  and  Agoda.com  as your main options, with Vrbo as your Airbnb alternative.

Use Hotels.com as a hotel comparison tool if you want more choices and Hostelworld for cheap but comfortable hostels.

Etc.:  For general travel goodies, visit my  Favorite Things  page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my  Travel Tools  page.

Are you ready to experience these Chiang Mai day trips for yourself? Pin this for later!

More Thailand content for your bucket list trip:

• Koh Lanta & More Unmissable Thai Islands
• Best Temples to See While in Bangkok

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• What to do in Chiang Mai in 2024; 3 day Itinerary for Chiang Mai

I lived in Chiang Mai for 14 months, when I was teaching English there , after doing my CELTA TEFL (diploma to teach English ). It’s my favourite place in the world, so much so that I celebrated cycling the length of Thailand, all 2000km of it, in Chiang Mai too! But when you’re visiting northern Thailand as a tourist, and you’re sitting thinking ‘Hmmm what to do in Chiang Mai’ it’s hard to cut through the endless nonsense online and create a 3 day itinerary for Chiang Mai, in the knowledge that you’re not missing any of the hotspots.

That’s why I’ve come to help! I’ve spent years in Chiang Mai, both on luxury breaks, and as a broke backpacker, so this Chiang Mai itinerary will fully inform you of the best way to spend your time here, and to know exactly just what to do in Chiang Mai. So below you’ll see the 3-day Itinerary for Chiang Mai, and below that, options for even longer stays. It’s different to a Bangkok itinerary in that Chiang Mai is so easy to get around. So check it out:

Table of contents

A 3 day itinerary for chiang mai, morning temples:, doi suthep’s story, evening food and drinks in nimmanhaemin, morning coffee with style, then thai cooking class, chill stroll down walking street, dinner, cocktails and muay thai, elephant experiences with ethics, last night in chiang mai, 4 days in chiang mai, bua tong waterfalls, doi inthanon national park, mae hong son, and the mae hong son ‘loop’, akyra manor chiang mai, final thoughts on what to do in chiang mai.

3 days in Chiang Mai is barely enough, so make sure to check out the additional stuff at the end of my Chiang Mai Itinerary below, but if you really only have 3 days then here’s what to do in Chiang Mai:

Your hotel may have brekkie, but if not, or if you’re fed up with hotel food then head over to the Nimmanhaemin area (where I recommend you stay anyway) and grab a delicious breakfast at ‘The Larder’. It looks pretty average from the outside, but the food (and portions) are AMAZING! Also, once you’ve filled your belly, you can walk from there to Funky Bike Rental (about a 10 minute walk) and pick-up a scooter rental for $7 per day (about 250THB).

Don’t worry, if you don’t want to drive a scooter you can use Thailand’s answer to Uber, and download Grab on your phone, and use that to get from A to B. But honestly, for 3 days in Chiang Mai, the scooter is well worth it! Also, I’d do Day 1 solo, no guides needed (unless you want to hike up to Doi Suthep), just be free to explore the temples at your own pace.

Once you’ve eaten, and sorted out transport you’ve got a couple of hours temple hunting. .Chiang Mai is home to loads of temples, but let’s be honest, you don’t want to spend all your time chasing one temple after another. For that reason, visit these 3 this morning. They are all within the moat, within the old city of Chiang Mai, just a 5 minute bike ride between each one, and all free or cheap to enter. 

Wat Phra Singh – Chiang Mai’s 2nd most famous temple, and almost 600 years old! 20THB to enter. 

Wat Chedi Luang – A huge ‘Chedi’ structure, toppled by the earthquake in 1545. It’s an icon of Chiang Mai. Free.

Wat Chiang Man – Chiang Mai’s oldest temple. Famous for the 2 Buddha images, said to be 2000 years old. 

Afternoon at Doi Suthep:

3 temples should ensure you have your fill of Buddha before lunch. For me, I’d stop for lunch at Good Souls Kitchen, a brilliant veggie restaurant, and also found within the Old City so it’s super easy to find from the temples.  After lunch, it’s time to hit up Chiang Mai’s most famous site of all. Doi Suthep.

(Wat Phrathat) Doi Suthep is the huge gold chedi on the mountain top that overlooks Chiang Mai. It’s lit up every night, and is allegedly home to Buddha’s himself’s shoulder bone! There are 3 options to get to Doi Suthep. You can take transport up there, by taxi or Song Thaew (roughly 100 baht or so). You can ride your scooter up yourself (this is what I always do, it’s a beautiful ride, takes about 20 minutes or so), or you can hike the Monk’s Trail (about a 6km, 3-hour hike, with the starting point HERE on google maps ). Or you can book a guide to take you on the trek HERE . 

Once you reach the bottom of the temple, you have a choice to walk the 309 steps, or take a 30THB cable car (take the steps, it’s good for you!). At the top of the steps then, foreigners pay 20THB to enter. The Temple is sacred due to the story of the white elephant carrying Buddha’s collar bone, which a monk had come across. Upon hearing of this, in 1368, King Dhammaraja put the bone on a white elephant and set the elephant free in the jungle.

The elephant attempted to climb Doi Suthep, almost reached the top, trumpeter 3 times, and died. This was seen as a sign, and the temple was built, with Buddha’s shoulder bone still sitting deep within the Chedi. 

Nowadays, walking around the Temple (clockwise only please), is a huge tourist attraction. The Gold Chedi is famous, as is the view of Chiang Mai city from the top, it’s spectacular on a clear day. Also, once you’re done, there is a little market at the foot of the Wat, where you can chill, shop and eat. All-in-all, allow about 3 or 4 hours included transport (or 8 if you’re hiking). Back to your hotel for a shower before dinner and drinks.

Night one, especially after being up to Doi Suthep, you should check-out sunset from the rooftop bar at Hotel Yahee. It’s a hipster hangout with amazing cocktails, and normally during sunset is ‘buy 1 get 1 free’. The rooftop of Akyra, complete with swimming pool, is also a great option.

After sunset, with your scooter parked at your hotel (no drinking and driving folks), walk the 5 minutes to ‘Khao Soi Nimman’ (Nimman Soi 7, and just 5 or 6 minutes walk from Yahee). Khao Soi is Chiang Mai’s most famous dish. Crispy noodles in a thai curry, it’s delicious. And at ‘Khao Soi Nimman’, you can get a huge, delicious dish for under 100THB (about $3). It’s so good!

After that, if you’re still up for drinks, start with a street beer opposite Maya Mall, then stroll back down Nimman to ‘Warm Up Cafe’ if you want to kick things off with a little more booze. Sit upstairs to avoid the crazy Thai crowds, it’s a fun place.

Day 1 was a winner. Today it’s time to experience a local market, some Northern Thai food, and a shopping bonanza. 

First up, if you went for the scooter option, and you’re big into uber-cool coffee shops (like my partner), then check out a morning coffee at one of these 3 coffee shops:

• No. 39 Cafe.
• The Baristro x Ping River.

All serve tip-tip coffee, great snacks, and the settings are nothing short of magical. 

In every tourist hotspot in Thailand, they try to sling you cooking courses. Normally, I wouldn’t bother with it to be honest. But Chiang Mai is different, honestly. I’ve been living in Thailand, on and off, for a decade. The only place I’ve done a cooking course here is in Chiang Mai. And I’ve done it twice! The general way it works is you’re either in a group or private (depending on your budget). From there you can choose half-day or full-day.

Personally, I think half-day is enough to be honest. They’ll pick you up, bring you to local fresh market and show you how the selection of Thai ingredients are made, then bring you back to a specially-fitted kitchen so you can cook side-by-side your friends or family, along with the pro-chef. They’ll walk you through every step of every dish. Skip breakfast, or at least don’t eat too much though, because during the cooking class, you stop and eat every dish you make along the way, and you get absolutely stuffed! 

Cooking classes generally cost about $40 or so. You can book them online HERE . 

TOP-TIP. If you get bored easily, and only want a HALF DAY cooking class, these are the guys for that !

Depending on what time your cooking class finishes, you can either squeeze this activity in before or after dinner. On Sunday’s, starting from the gorgeous Thapae Gate, there is a 1km long ‘walking street’, where Thai vendors from around the North congregate and share their cute handicrafts for sale. There are also endless food and drinks stalls too, so even if you’re not a shopper, come with an appetite and enjoy. The famous Walking Street runs on Sunday 4-11pm.

But if it’s a Saturday, they have a Saturday one too, starting at Chiang Mai gate, rather than Thapae gate. In the day and age of getting off the beaten track, many prefer the Saturday market. It’s less polished, and more Thai, and well worth your time.

My favourite restaurant in Chiang Mai sits right on the River Ping. ‘Riverside’ is an institution in Chiang Mai. Once just a shack on the river run by a Dutch guy and his Thai wife, it expanded and expanded until it reached the stratosphere today, where you need a reservation if you want to sit right on the river 7 days a week. Great spot for beers too with banging loud music every single night.

After Riverside, take a Grab taxi for cocktails. The 2 coolest cocktail bars in the city are without doubt ‘Drinksmith’ and ‘Nopahburi Bar’. Drinksmith is uber-cool, peaky-blinders style bar with signature cocktails. Whereas Nopahburi bar is a run-down, retro hole-in-the-wall that serves cocktails only with Thai booze. Both are brilliant. Both are expensive, nothing less than $10 a drink in either, but worth it, I promise.

If you’re still chasing the night, go and check out some Muay Thai. There are 2 spots, a kind-of tourist place on Loi Kroh road that has fighters sporadically fight to keep the drinkers entertained, and better, more-authentic experience at the Tha Phae Boxing Stadium. You can enter from 8pm, and generally, there are 5 or 6 fights per night, closing at 11pm. Beers available inside too, it’s great fun. Prices are a little expensive at $15, but again, worth it for the experience for sure. 

TOP-TIP: BOOK YOUR TICKETS ONLINE, SKIP THE QUEUE AND GUARANTEE YOUR SEATS ($17) .

If that’s not enough drinking, and socialising for you, the final spot is ‘Zoe in Yellow’. That’s where people party in crowds. Buckets, face paints, lots of fellow tourists, cut loose. Closes between midnight and 1am, if you’re still in the mood, Spicy is the last place to close. Expect a fun, but seedy atmosphere. The drinking scene in Chiang Mai isn’t the same as Bangkok nightlife , but it’s still fun. You have been warned!

I hope the hangover isn’t too bad, or feel free to swap the days around to make sure you’re energetic enough for a beautiful elephant-led experience today. 

Thailand became famous for ‘Elephant Tourism’ back in the 90s. Elephants walking the streets, photo-ops, elephant ‘riding’ in the jungle. But like all experience with animals, it was far from ethical (shout out to the Thai Tiger Kingdom – avoid those as*holes too!).  Thankfully, the world has woken up and realised that elephants aren’t ours to abuse for a quick Instagram pic, and with that a new breed of sanctuaries have been born. You have to be careful though, many places still abuse elephants and put on a front to satisfy the tourists.

One place that doesn’t do that, and has led the way for genuine ethical Elephant care is the ‘Elephant Nature Park’, created by the beautiful human, Lek. This place is heaven for animals. Anyway, they offer day-trips (2,500THB/$80), where you get picked up around 8.30, spend the day at the sanctuary, walk with the herd, learn about the practices etc, it’s a wonderful experience. You’ll be back in Chiang Mai city around 5pm ish.

TOP-TIP: Book online and reserve your spot (no extra cost). It honestly does sell out !

NOTE : You can actually spend the night here, and with that, enter the river and help wash the elephants in the morning. I LOVED IT! But you have to book in advance, it’s always sold out (5800THB, almost $200). All proceeds go to the park. 

Your time is almost up! Go for a wander around One Nimman and buy your last minute gifts (don’t miss the lemon cake from Graph coffee shop in there!), and if you’re still in the mood for some life in your night, don’t miss Chiang Mai’s famous Jazz Bar – North Gate Jazz. It’s packed with both locals and expats alike almost every single night! You may end up drinking your beer standing up, outside on the street as the people spill out. Which is kinda great, because it’s an awesome way to chat to people. I love the place.

And that’s it folks, you’re 3 days in Chiang Mai is up. You now know exactly what to do in Chiang Mai, but if you need a Chiang Mai itinerary longer than 3 days, don’t worry, I’ve added the additional information below. 

EXTRA DAYS IN CHIANG MAI?

As I mentioned above, I’ve been to every country in the world , and I think Chiang Mai is the best spot of the lot! Big praise? I can’t wait to move back there next year, which is why I think 3 days in Chiang Mai isn’t nearly enough, but I know people are pushed for time, so it’s tough to get all the time you need! Despite that, if you find yourself with more time here, and you want to know what to do with 4 days in Chiang Mai or 5 days in Chiang Mai, let me help you out with longer Chiang Mai itineraries here:

I’d stick with the 3 day Chiang Mai Itinerary above. But add 1 night at the Elephant Nature Park. Sleeping there is a truly magical experience, and walking with the elephants at sunrise the next morning is something you’ll never forget. With that, you’ll still have 1 extra day left. The best thing to do with that day is a day trekking and bamboo rafting. You’ll drive about an hour outside the city (you can arrange them to pick you up at the Elephant Nature Park if you wish), and then go for a gentle trek in the Northern Thai jungle for a couple of hours.

You’ll get the opportunity to help support local hill tribes with your custom, and stop for food. The second half of the day, hop on a bamboo raft and meander through the jungle. A slow-paced journey through the ‘real’ Thailand on a rickety old bamboo raft. When I did this, I thought it’d be a kind-of contrived tourist trap, but it was honestly a brilliant day. We even brought a couple of beers for the bamboo raft journey and soaked up the vibes all the way back to Chiang Mai.

5 days in Chiang Mai, or more?

If you still haven’t had your fill of Chiang Mai, it’s time to add-on some side trips to your time in Chiang Mai.

Just a 45 minutes drive outside Chiang Mai is Mon Jam . A mountain-town of Hmong tribespeople. You can stay within their community in ‘glamping tents’. The weather is fresh (almost cold!), the views are epic, and the drive is beautiful. You’ll be shocked how different it is when it’s so close to Chiang mai. Check it out !

(aka the ‘Sticky Waterfalls): 50km, or a one hour drive, north of Chiang Mai, the Bua Tong Waterfalls are a really popular escape from the city for Thais and expats. The waterfalls themselves are ‘sticky’ because they’re formed from Limestone, so you can grip to them, and sit in the flowing water. Most people bring food and drinks and chill by the falls for a couple of hours. You can either drive here yourself on a scooter, and drive back. Or book a half-day tour to take care of that for you (preferable if you plan to drink beers there!).

TOP-TIP – COMBINE THE WATERFALLS WITH DOI SUTHEP ON A PRIVATE TOUR FOR $80 OR SO . 

Chiang Mai’s little brother, Chiang Rai is a charming city 3 hours drive from Chiang Mai. It’s possible to take a day-trip. But I’d recommend spending 1 or 2 nights in Chiang Rai. The White Temple is its biggest claim to fame, but the Black Temple, the Rice Terraces north of the City, the Golden Triangle, and Phu Chi Fa sunrise spot all use Chiang Rai as a hop-off point, so give yourself 2 days there if you can. You can book a day-trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai with these guys if you’re pushed for time .

Home to Thailand’s highest spot, Doi (‘mountain’ in the Northern Thai dialect) Inthanon sits at 2,565 m (about 7,500feet). It’s a perfect day-trip from Chiang Mai, with it being just 60km away.  If you travel here solo (better in a car rental than scooter to be honest, as it gets cold up there, and the incline is quite steep, so a cr*ppy scooter rental can sometimes struggle), it’s 300THB (about $10) for the ticket entrance. Normally, you pair a trip here with a stop at the Wachirathan waterfall and Sirithan Waterfalls too. And a stop at the twin pagods of Napamatanee Don and Napaphon Bhumisiri.  TOP TIP: For $40 or so, you can book a DAY-TRIP with these guys !

Thailand’s answer to Ubud, Bali. Pai is 3 or 4 hours from Chiang Mai so it’s not doable as a day-trip from Chiang Mai, you’d have to spend a couple of nights there. It’s a place to chill rather than hop about from sight to sight. Waterfalls, hotsprings and Pai Canyon, and a lot of relaxing in rice paddies. Lovely place, with a hippy vibe.

For the more adventurous of you, this is a great way to feel Northern Thailand. Take a scooter, or a car, and complete the ‘loop’ of Chiang Mai, Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son. People usually spend 5-7 days doing it. You’ll feel the Burmese influence, get lost in the lush jungles of the North, and find yourself with a true travel experience in Thailand.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai?

Now I’m my mid-30s, my travel style has changed a lot over the years. But don’t worry, Chiang Mai suits all budgets. First of all, you need to choose which area to stay in. Chiang Mai has a central square moat. Within that is referred to as the ‘Old City’. North West of the old city, just a couple of kilometres away, is a street called Nimmanhaemin. I referred to it a lot in the ‘What to do in Chiang Mai’ article above.

Basically, I only ever stay in the Nimman area. It’s home to most of the best bars, restaurants, convenience stores. There are tourist shops to help you out, great snacks, motorbike rentals everywhere etc. It’s by far the best place to stay where you’re here on your 3 days in Chiang Mai escape. 

With that in mind, you can find great private rooms as cheap as $15 in the Nimman area. In fact, I’m staying in one just like that as my base for my 188km marathon from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai next month . So if you’re on a budget, don’t worry. 

If you’re looking for the best boutique hotel in Chiang Mai or the best luxury hotel in Nimmanhaemin, there’s only one place I’d recommend. The winner of countless awards since opening, and found on Nimmanhaemin soi 9, is the akyra Manor Chiang Mai . Italics

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by JOHNNY WARD (@onestep4ward) on Jul 22, 2020 at 7:49pm PDT

I was recently in Chiang Mai, looking to buy land to build my villa there , and I wanted to celebrate with my fiance, so we booked 3 nights at the Akyra Manor, and it is spectacular. ESPECIALLY if you bag yourself the Premier Suite or Manor Suite, complete with oversized stone bathtub with Doi Suthep Views. It’s the best bathtub I’ve ever been in, and that means hotels in Bora Bora , Maldives , Seychelles etc, it’s wonderful.

Not only that, their breakfast is A La Carte, and retains the boutique vibe that luxury resorts often lose with their large breakfast buffet warehouses! On site is also one of Chiang Mai’s best Italian restaurants, Italics. I can vouch for their pizza, eating it twice out of the 3 nights we were there!

The highlight of the dining at the Akyra however is RISE bar, on the rooftop. They have amazing signature cocktails, and a great tapas snacking menu. But it’s the rooftop pool and champagne bar that win the Instagram hearts, check it out:

Are 3 days in Chiang Mai enough? It’s enough to get a feel for the city. But ideally, you’d want to use Chiang Mai as your base to explore the north of Thailand. You can probably squeeze the main sights of the city into 2 days. And then another day for the elephants. So 3 days in Chiang Mai is kind of the minimum you need.

As you can see above, with day trips and multi-day trips, you could easily spend 2 weeks with Chiang Mai as your main base. Using it to explore the best of Northern Thailand. Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, the Mae Hong Son Loop. Mae Ngat Dam and their floating houses . That would be a dream. I hope you guys now feel confident in what to do in Chiang Mai. And I hope my Chiang Mai Itinerary has helped, and even more, I hope you fall in love with this city, and region, as much as I have. 

Remember, never travel without travel insurance! And never overpay for travel insurance!

I use HeyMondo . You get INSTANT quotes. Super cheap, they actually pay out, AND they cover almost everywhere, where most insurance companies don't (even places like Central African Republic etc!). You can sign-up here . PS You even get 5% off if you use MY LINK ! You can even sign up if you're already overseas and traveling, pretty cool.

Also, if you want to start a blog...I CAN HELP YOU!

Also, if you want to start a blog, and start to change your life, I'd love to help you! Email me on [email protected]. In the meantime, check out my super easy blog post on how to start a travel blog in under 30 minutes, here! And if you just want to get cracking, use BlueHost at a discount, through me.

Also, (if you're like me, and awful with tech-stuff) email me and my team can get a blog up and running for you, designed and everything, for $699 - email [email protected] to get started.

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Chiang Mai Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 13, 2024

Chiang Mai is the largest and most popular city in northern Thailand. It’s the main base of activities for most travelers who come up north and is one of the most visited cities in Thailand for travelers of all types.

The city is brimming with culture, incredible food markets, dozens of beautiful temples, a relaxed vibe, beautiful landscapes. In recent years, it’s become one of the main digital nomad hubs in Southeast Asia so it’s easy to meet other travelers here.

While you can find a lot of delicious Western food, cafes, and bars all around the city, the historic Thai-ness of the city hasn’t disappeared. There are plenty of stunning temples and lively markets to entertain as you explore.

Be sure to budget extra time when you visit Chiang Mai and as it’s easy to get “stuck” here. Lots of people plan to stay for a few days and end up staying for a few weeks or more! There’s magic to this city.

This travel guide to Chiang Mai can help you plan your trip, save money, and ensure you have an amazing visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Chiang Mai

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Chiang Mai

1. Visit the Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park rescues abused and injured elephants and other animals from around the country. It’s a sanctuary where you can visit for a day or spend a week volunteering. While you can no longer feed or bathe the elephants, you can still walk among them and see them chill out, play, and feed themselves. It’s a phenomenal experience where you’ll get to learn about the elephants and conservation efforts in the country. A one-day visit starts at 2,500 THB and needs to be booked in advance on the park’s website. Be make sure to book your trip in advance as it’s super popular and space fills up fast!

2. Tour the temples

There are hundreds of beautiful Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai, some dating as far back as the 13th century. The main ones worth seeing are Wat Chiang Man, (the city’s oldest one), Wat Phra Singh, Wat Suan Dok (or Flower Garden Temple), Wat Chedi Luang, and the Northern Indian-inspired Wat Jet Yot. As with most places of worship, dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees for men and women), wear shoes that are easy to put on and take off as no shoes are allowed in temples.

3. Visit Wat Doi Suthep

Doi Suthep is the mountain just outside Chiang Mai which holds its most famous temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (the pagoda supposedly contains relics of Buddha himself). Perched at the top of 306 stairs flanked by 2 giant serpent sculptures (there’s a funicular available too though!), it offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and Chiang Mai, plus at 6pm each day, you can watch the monks chant. Entry is 30 THB for tourists and there’s a 20 THB fee for the funicular.

4. Bargain at the night bazaar

Chiang Mai is the main handicraft center of Thailand and the night bazaar is the largest in the country. It’s a sprawling maze of stalls on either side of several streets but if you get to the corner of Loi Kroh and Changklan roads that’s a fair place to start and get oriented. Everything is sold at non-fixed prices so you can bargain the night away for the best deals on clothing, jewellery, paintings, antiques and grab some food across the main street at the Kalare night bazaar. Open daily from 6pm-12am, although individual stalls may have slightly differing hours.

5. Celebrate the Yi Peng Festival

This iconic annual three day festival unique to Northern Thailand takes place around the full moon in November. Sometimes referred to as the ‘Lantern Festival’ or the ‘Festival of Lights’, it’s marked by many ceremonies but most notably on the third and final night by citizens releasing thousands of paper lanterns into the air, which symbolically carry prayers, bad luck and all that people wish to let go towards the heavens. You can watch the lanterns be released from Nawarat Bridge or the Silver Bridge. It is a beautiful, memorable experience.

Other Things to See and Do in Chiang Mai

1. try ziplining.

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush and some time in (and above) lush forests, go ziplining. Chiang Mai has many operators offering beginner and advanced zip lining courses including multiple platforms, sky bridges, abseiling options and more. Jungle Flight is the home of one of Thailand’s longest zipline courses and Kingkong Smile offers both a short and a long course. The sites tend to be 1-1.5 hours’ drive from Chiang Mai into the mountains, but most operators include a return shuttle trip in the booking fee. Ziplining starts at about 2,400 THB.

2. Go jungle trekking

Chiang Mai is the main starting point for all sorts of jungle trekking tours. I like the three-day ones the best because, the longer the tour, the more interesting and secluded places you visit. Most multi-day treks include homestays with local families and some a bamboo raft trip down a river or some time at a waterfall. Be careful with whom you sign up, as many guides simply walk with you and don’t tell you much about the land or wildlife. Moreover, if you visit a tribal village, make sure the money stays with the villagers, and that they aren’t being exploited, which unfortunately happens a lot. Be sure to ask your accommodation for suggestions. Don’t book in advance.

3. Take a cooking class

Chiang Mai is the most popular place in Thailand for cooking classes, offering a variety of classes and amazing deals. You’ll often begin your class by going to the market and learning about Thai produce before heading back to the kitchen to cook a few dishes. Some classes even take place on a farm or location with their own vegetable garden, like Grandma’s Cooking School which includes a tour of the organic garden before the cooking class. Every class ends with eating everything you’ve prepared so bring an appetite! Prices range from 1,000-1,800 THB per person.

4. Eat a kantoke dinner

This traditional Thai event generally takes place on special occasions, like holidays, festivals, and weddings. At a kantoke dinner, you experience both Northern Thai food and culture at the same time. At this event, visitors are seated on the floor around a circular tray laden with Northern dishes (called a kantoke , giving the tradition its name). While you eat, you’ll watch traditional Thai and Northern dances and other cultural performances. The Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center is the premier place to go, with tickets costing 690 THB (including dinner).

5. Cruise down the river

Cruise around rural Mae Ping on a two-hour journey that takes you past beautiful scenery around Chiang Mai. Enjoy the scenic vistas, stop to visit a local farm and its herb and fruit gardens, and relax with an onboard Thai dinner. Mae Ping River Cruise is the main company offering tours. A two-hour cruise is 480 THB, while dinner cruises start at 650 THB.

6. Chat with monks

Monk chats are a chance for visitors to learn about the country’s religion and culture, while for young monks it’s an opportunity to practice their English. It’s a popular cultural activity that occurs at many of the major temples throughout the city, including Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Suan Dok, as well as the MCU Buddhist University. Hours vary based on location.

7. Go whitewater rafting

The Mae Taeng River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting, with rapids ranging from levels two to four (easy to advanced). Keep in mind that the river is at its most intense during the rainy season, between August-October, and tours might sometimes be postponed if levels are dangerous. 8 Adventures offers tours for 2,500-3,000 THB per person, which include transportation from Chiang Mai and lunch.

8. Browse Warorot Market

This historic market opened in the early 20th century and is the largest and oldest in the city. It’s a great place to get a more local shopping experience and grab some fresh produce, dried foods, specialty snacks and clothes. There are even flower vendors outside the market and street food stalls that stay open into the evening. The food stalls are located on the first floor, while clothing and other goods are on the second and third floors. Located near the river, it’s open daily from 6am-7pm.

9. Visit The Highland People Discovery Museum

Highlighting Thailand’s ten minority hill tribes, this ethnographic museum offers informational videos and exhibits on each tribe’s lifestyle, beliefs, clothing and jewelry items (as well as a gift shop where you can purchase a few authentic items too!). The 4-storey museum building is surrounded by a lake and outside the gardens host life-size models of traditional huts of various tribes you can take a stroll through at your leisure. Set aside at least 2-3 hours to get a good feel of what the museum has to offer. It’s open Monday-Friday and admission is free (donations are welcome).

10. Climb up the Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls

While a little outside of the city, this makes for a great day trip. The falls, due to the type of limestone they’re made of, is almost sticky and allow you to climb up the cascading water. The rocks themselves are interesting, looking a bit like fluffy clouds. Not only is it a neat experience, it’s also a great workout! Pack a picnic and a change of clothes, find a spot, and “stick” around for lunch. You can self-drive or take a taxi and agree a time for your driver to come back for you, or negotiate a ride with one of the drivers on site. Admission is free and basic shower and toilet facilities are available.

  For more information on other cities and islands in Thailand, check out the guides below:

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Ko Chang Travel Guide
• Ko Lipe Travel Guide
• Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide
• Koh Phi Phi Travel Guide
• Phuket Travel Guide

Chiang Mai Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Hostels start at 240 THB per night large 10-12-bed dorms, while smaller dorm rooms with 4-6 beds cost around 280-429 THB. Private rooms start at 1,000 THB for a double room with an ensuite bathroom. All hostels include free Wi-Fi, and most hostels include free breakfast and air-conditioning. Many offer free bikes for their guests as well.

Budget hotel prices – Centrally-located two-star hotels and guesthouses start at 450-625 THB per night for a room with free Wi-Fi, hot water, a private bathroom, and air conditioning. Most hotels also have outdoor swimming pools and offer free or discounted bikes for their guests to use.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms in apartments for 350 THB. There’s also a wide selection of entire apartments/homes starting at 500-900 THB per night.

Average cost of food – Thai cuisine uses many ingredients to create layers of flavor in a dish. Typical fresh spices and herbs used include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, shrimp paste, and fish sauce.

Rice and noodles are central to Thai cuisine, while meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood. Some popular dishes include tom yum goong (hot and sour soup with shrimp), massaman curry, pad thai (a stir-fried noodle dish), som tam (spicy papaya salad), kao phad (fried rice), khao man gai (rice with boiled chicken), and satay (grilled meat on skewers, served with a peanut dipping sauce).

Chiang Mai’s most famous dish is khao soi , a yellow curry noodle soup with pickled cabbage and your choice of chicken or beef.

Chiang Mai has some of the best street food in Thailand, with dishes like khao soi costing 50 THB and snacks costing 20 THB. Most meals at a casual sit-down Thai restaurant cost 80-125 THB.

Western food is more expensive, starting around 170-195 THB for a main dish. A burger is 210 THB, pasta is 180-245 THB, and pizza is around 250 THB.

When it comes to drinking, going to bars can be pricey, with the cheapest local beers costing about 95 THB each. To save some money, you can buy beers from 7-Eleven for half that.

For non-alcoholic drinks, a cappuccino or fresh juice is 65 THB, and soda is 35 THB.

Some good places to eat are Khao Soi Khun Yai, Dada Kafe, Khao Soy Maesai, Aum Vegetarian, Dash, Musashi Sushi Bar, the Chiang Mai Gate Market, and the Sunday market that cuts through the old city (you can’t miss it)!

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 550 THB. This gets you basic staples like rice, veggies, eggs, and some meat.

Backpacking Chiang Mai Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget, expect to spend about 975 THB per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking or eating cheap street food, using local transportation like songthaews and public buses, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free and cheap activities like temple visits and wandering the markets.

On a mid-range budget, expect to pay 1,875 THB per day. On this budget, you can stay in a private Airbnb or cheap guesthouse, eat out for all your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around and do more activities and tours like a cooking class or hiking excursion.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,725 THB per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take taxis everywhere, and do whatever activities you want (including visiting the elephant reserve). This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in THB.

Chiang Mai Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Chiang Mai can be as cheap or expensive as you want (like most of Thailand). But if you stick to the local markets, avoid the fancy organic restaurants that have popped up, and stay in the old city, you can save money easily! Here are some other ways to save money in Chiang Mai:

• Bargain hard – You have to bargain hard at the markets here. Don’t take the first price and don’t be afraid to walk away. They inflate prices greatly here since Chiang Mai is such a popular shopping destination for tourists.
• Eat from the street stalls – Food from street vendors in Thailand is some of the best Thai food I have ever had, and it’s so cheap it’s ridiculous. The locals eat here and you should too.
• Take the songthaew – At 20-40 THB for anywhere in the city, songthaews are one of the cheapest ways to get around. They go everywhere and run all night. There’s no reason to take a taxi around the city.
• Take the bus – At 20 THB per ride (and cheaper with a day pass), these modern public buses are, along with songthaews, one of the cheapest ways to get around the city.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to stay and who can share their insider tips and advice. It’s the best way to save money on accommodation and get insider tips and advice.
• Book group excursions – When booking your day tours, multi-day tours, cooking classes, etc., try to book it as a group so the price per person gets reduced. Traveling alone? Make friends and book a tour with your hostel.
• Use a water bottle with a purifier – It isn’t safe to drink tap water in Chiang Mai, and although buying bottled water is cheap, it does add up. Instead, pick up a LifeStraw , which have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s good for the environment too!)

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Looking for budget-friendly accommodation in Chiang Mai? Here are some of my favorite places to stay in the city:

• Kodchasri B&B
• Smile Robotist Hostel
• Hostel Lullaby
• The Royal Guest House
• Chang Puak Hotel

How to Get Around Chiang Mai

Songthaew – Songthaews are the most common mode of local transportation in Chiang Mai. These are converted pickup trucks with two rows of seats and how locals travel. Just flag one down in the street and tell the driver where you’re going. You can get to just about anywhere in the central city for 40 THB.

Buses – Until recently, there weren’t public buses in Chiang Mai, but that all changed in 2018 with the launch of the RTC Smart City Bus network. At 20 THB per ride, it’s the cheapest and easiest way to get around the city, including to and from the airport. The buses are clean, modern, and have free Wi-Fi. If you plan to use the bus a lot, you can get an unlimited day pass for 180 THB or a three-day pass for 400 THB.

Bicycle – Chiang Mai has a new dockless bike-sharing system called Anywheel. Each ride starts at 10 THB, while a monthly pass starts at 200 THB. Many hostels and guesthouses also offer their guests free bicycles to use.

Ridesharing – Use the Grab app to request a private ride. It works just like Uber and is one of the most popular ways to get around in Southeast Asia.

Motorbike/scooter rental – Motorbikes and scooters are a common way to get around, though it can be a harrowing experience to drive one in Chiang Mai. Keep in mind that traffic flows on the left in Thailand. A motorbike or scooter costs 100-500 THB per day, with cheaper deals for weekly and monthly rentals.

When to Go to Chiang Mai

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is between October-April when temperatures are warm but not stifling. You’ll still want to pack a sweater in case the evenings cool off. The average daytime temperature is around 25°C (77°F), but it can dip as low as 15°C (59°F) at night. Keep in mind, however, that this is peak tourist season so book your accommodation in advance if you want to find the best deals.

In April and May, things start heating up. Temperatures can soar as high as 40°C (104°F), and you’ll want to pack light clothing and plenty of sunscreen. If you’re not used to such heat, you might find it uncomfortable for sightseeing.

The rainy season takes place from June to October when temperatures cool down to 24-32°C (75-90°F) but the humidity rises. Chiang Mai doesn’t get as much rain as Southern Thailand, but you’ll still want to be prepared. It rains for maybe an hour each day, and only rarely for days on end.

How to Stay Safe in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. People are nice and helpful and you’re unlikely to get into trouble. Violent crime against tourists is rare.

Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Chiang Mai so always keep your valuables secure and out of reach. This includes when on the bus/public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe exploring the city, though the common precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

There are some common scams to be aware of here, such as the motorbike scam. This is when you rent a bike and the vendors try to charge you for damage to your bike rental — even though there is no damage. Also, sometimes taxis will try to charge you extra so always make sure you use a reputable taxi (have your hotel/hostel call one if you need one).

You can read this post on common travel scams to avoid if you want to learn more.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Chiang Mai Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Chiang Mai Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Thailand travel and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hostels in Chiang Mai

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Thailand

Is Bangkok Safe to Visit?

The Complete Guide to Diving in Koh Tao

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Your Guide To Visiting Chiang Mai In 2023

January 4, 2023 January 4, 2023 by Celia Nachura

It’s easy to see why Chiang Mai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand . As the capital of the 13th-century Lanna Kingdom which was independent until the 19th century, it offers a rich history unique from the rest of the country. Nature, culture, gastronomy, and the arts combine in the rolling landscape of Chiang Mai, from the mountaintop Buddhist temples to lush rainforests to unforgettable elephant encounters. Not to mention, the food is top-notch, while local Thai handicrafts are thriving in this region.

Despite drawing flocks of backpackers all year round, Chiang Mai is a laidback place that remains relaxed, authentic, and unspoiled. Easy access to nearby tourist spots like Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son make it an excellent base for northern Thailand adventures. Planning a trip to this well-loved Thai destination? Read on for the KKday guide on traveling to Chiang Mai.

• Language: Thai language or Siamese is the official language in Thailand, but some people in Chiang Mai also speak Lanna. There are English-speaking locals in tourist towns, but there are fewer in rural areas.
• Currency: The Baht (THB/฿) is the official currency.
• Airport: Chiang Mai International Airport
• Public Transportation: Travelers can hop on a songthaew, tuk-tuk, or the city bus to get around Chiang Mai.
• Extra Tips: Be mindful of wearing appropriate clothing when visiting temples. Travelers are advised to cover their shoulders and legs when entering these sacred spaces; if you’re planning on wearing shorts, bring a sarong as a cover-up.

Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai

Thailand is hailed as a year-round travel destination, and it’s the same in Chiang Mai. Even better, its mountainous location keeps northern Thailand pleasantly cooler than the rest of the country. Many of the tourist spots in Chiang Mai are accessible all year round, but it may be best to skip the rainiest months between June and October. Instead, visit the mountain town from November to February, when Chiang Mai weather is cool and relatively rain-free.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

As a bustling tourist hub, Chiang Mai has plenty of accommodation options for backpackers, whether it’s your first time or a returning traveler. If you don’t know where to start, check out our picks of resorts in Chiang Mai.

137 Pillars House Chiang Mai

Located in the Wat Gate district, the award-winning 137 Pillars House is a beautiful 19th-century manor combining classic architecture, colonial touches, and modern luxury. With only 30 suites in the sprawling garden property, this boutique hotel is made for serene holidays. On-site amenities include a swimming pool, spa, gym, and restaurant.

Address: 2 Sol 1, Nawatgate Road, Tambon Watgate, Chiang Mai Website: https://137pillarshotels.com/en/chiangmai , Facebook

Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort

Set on the banks of the Mee Ping River, Na Nirand is a luxury boutique property that’s conveniently located near the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. Inside, this top resort features stylish suites with bespoke furnishings, private balconies, and sitting areas. There’s a fine-dining restaurant overlooking the river, along with an outdoor pool, spa, and gym.

Address: 1/1 Soi 9, Charoenprathet Road, Tambon Changklan, Amphoe Muang, Chiang Mai Website: https://www.nanirand.com , Facebook

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

Another luxury resort on the Mae Ping River is Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, an ultra-stylish haven tucked away behind a bamboo wall for an atmosphere of privacy and exclusivity. Chic rooms and suites are large and tastefully appointed, while top-notch amenities include the pool, spa, and gym. Travelers are drawn to The Service 1921 Restaurant and Bar for a fine dining experience in a space that was once the office of the British Consulate.

Address: 123-123/1 Charoen Prathet Road, Changklan, Muang, Chiang Mai Website: https://www.anantara.com/en/chiang-mai , Facebook

Where to Eat in Chiang Mai

Food is a crucial part of the full Chiang Mai experience, with its Lanna heritage giving unique flavors to local cuisine. You won’t run out of dining spots here — and if you don’t know where to start, check a few of our favorite Chiang Mai foodie haunts below.

Take a break from sightseeing with a plate of authentic northern Thai food at Huen Phen, one of Chiang Mai’s most popular restaurants that’s been around for four decades. Located in the old city, Huen Phen serves delicious Lanna dishes, including the famous khao soi . Each order is affordable, so travelers can sample a wide array of local specialties.

Address: 117/1 Rachamunka Road, Phrasing, Muang, Chiang Mai Service Hours: Daily, 8:30 AM to 4 PM, 5 PM to 10 PM

Khao Soi Mae Manee

Visit Khao Soi Mae Manee, a charming café renowned for its namesake dish: khao soi, a coconut curry noodle soup made with either chicken or beef. Many say that Khao Soi Mae Manee’s take on this northern Thai specialty dish is the best in the region, so make sure you try a bowl of the extra-flavorful beef khao soi.

Address: 18 Soi 24 Chotana Road, Chang Phuk, Muang Chieng Mai, Chiang Mai Service Hours: Daily, 9 AM to 3:30 PM Website: Facebook

Ginger Farm Kitchen

Get a taste of fresh local ingredients and organic Thai dishes at Ginger Farm Kitchen, a beautifully designed restaurant that sources organic vegetables, free-range eggs and meats from its own farm and locals. The farm-to-table restaurant is hailed for its delicious salads and other northern Thai fare. Travelers are advised to make a booking in advance.

Address: Nimmanhaemin Road, Suthep, Chiang Mai Service Hours: Daily, 11 AM to 10 PM Website: https://www.gingerfarmkitchen.com , Facebook

Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Go temple hopping.

The dazzling temples of Chiang Mai are some of its greatest draws; make sure you see a couple when you’re in town. At the top of the list is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep , the stunning gold-plated mountaintop temple with the famed sitting Buddha image overlooking the city. Travelers can get to the top by hiking or taking a tram. Other notable stops of a Chiang Mai temple tour are the ancient Wat Chiang Man, the revered Wat Phra Singh, and the striking white pagodas of Wat Suan Dok.

Visit an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

Chiang Mai is one of the few places in the world where explorers can enjoy close ethical encounters with elephants. Get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feed and bathe these gentle giants at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai.

Shop at the Night Bazaar Market

The bustling markets in Chiang Mai are a must-visit — and the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is so well-known that it’s among the main attractions of this Thai destination. Browse the stalls at the buzzy Night Bazaar for all sorts of souvenirs, from clothes and furniture to handcrafted goods and antiques. The Saturday and Sunday Markets are also worth exploring for local handicrafts.

Take a Lanna Cooking Class

Interested in whipping up tasty Lanna dishes at home? Enroll in a cooking class to hone your skills in the kitchen and bring home the flavors of Lanna cuisine that make eating in northern Thailand so unique.

Head to KKday for more Chiang Mai tourist deals , including tours to the Art in Paradise 3D Museum , Sticky Waterfalls , Don Inthanon National Park , and more.

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Celia Nachura is a freelance writer from the Philippines who’s constantly collecting new hobbies—it used to be reading and painting, then crocheting and running, and traveling is always somewhere near the top of the list. Tomorrow it’ll probably something new, but luckily, being a free-range writer means never having to choose just one!

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Chiang mai travel blog — the fullest guide to chiang mai with best things to do in chiang mai.

I have heard a lot about Chiang Mai, the land known as the Northern rose of Thailand has long been on the travel bucket list of any tourist for its peace, freshness and nature. Unlike the noisy, bustle inherent to the Bangkok, Chiang Mai is completely the opposite, here motorbikes are many, the MRT are of course not there, simply the rays of the sun are passing through the tree-lined roads, sidewalk shops or small cafes to escape the noise and frustration. It remind me of the familiar highlands in Vietnam, such as Dalat or Sapa. Yes, I went to Chiang Mai to look for such simple things.

• Chiang Mai blog — The super Chiang Mai travel guide for first-timers
• Top cafes in Chiang Mai — 8+ best coffee shop & best cafes in Chiang Mai
• Best cafes in Chiang Mai — Top 9 unique & best coffee shops in Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Best nightlife in Chiang Mai — 8+ cool & best bars in Chiang Mai
• Where to stay in Chiang Mai? — Top 3 best places to stay in Chiang Mai for first timers

So, is Chiang Mai worth visiting, how to visit Chiang Mai, what to do in Chiang Mai and how to plan a budget trip to Chiang Mai for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Chiang Mai travel blog (Chiang Mai blog) with the fullest Chiang Mai travel guide (guide to Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai tourist guide, Chiang Mai city guide, Chiang Mai guide) from how to get to Chiang Mai, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Chiang Mai to help you maximize your trip as follows!

Chiang Mai local guide: When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

Surely many of you have seen the pictures of sky lanterns in Chiang Mai? That is the occasion that the people of this land will celebrate the biggest festival of the year called Loy Krathong. During the festive season, the city looks like is changed a new clothing, a lot of lanterns, souvenirs, goods are sold everywhere. Hundreds of sky lanterns are dropped in the sky at the night of the full moon creating a magnificent scene that is nowhere to be found. Usually the festival is held in November every year, but to know exactly you access here to see the details schedule.

In addition, traveling to Chiang Mai is the most beautiful from November to April next year, at this time the weather is pleasant, cool, the hotels are also crowded with tourists and the price is higher than usual. Note that avoiding going in the months of August and September, because this is the peak of the rainy season in Northern Thailand, it is easy to encounter floods in some areas adjacent to Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai travel blog: How to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?

If you depart from Vietnam, currently, to getting from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai, all flights must transit in Bangkok. So you need to getting to Bangkok first and then can fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or take the bus, train.

There are many domestic Thai airlines flying Bangkok – Chiang Mai route such as AirAsia, Nok Air, Lion Air,.. the cheapest price from 800 Baht ($26.21). Traveling by Nok Air is still the most preferred because of its cheap price and also free 15 kg of checked baggage.

Getting from aiport to city center: When arrival at Chiang Mai airport, to getting to the city center is quite easy because the distance is quite short, only about 3 km. A taxi ride costs 150 Baht ($4.91) if you register right at the counter of the airport, but if you are traveling in groups of 4 people or more and have bulky luggage you will need to travel by Songthaew to carry more. Prices for Songthaew range from 75 Baht ($2.46) to 100 Baht ($3.28) per person.

You should remember to book online in advance at https://12go.asia/en or http://www.busonlineticket.co.th/ and pay with your international bank cards (VISA, Master..) / Paypal. Ticket prices range from 520 – 800 Baht ($17.04 – $26.21), the quality of the car is high-class, with air conditioning, warm blankets, snacks and an extra meal because of the long travel time (about 10 hours). You should choose to go in the evening to Chiang Mai in the early next morning and save a night at the hotel, a day with a lot of trips on this route.

If you traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai from Don Mueang Airport, you take the A1 bus with priced at 30 Baht ($0.98) right in front of the airport gate and go to the Mochit bus stop. This bus station is located near Chatuchak market and not too far from the airport because it is at the edge of the city. The last bus trip to Chiang Mai is at 9:40PM daily. After get off at Chiang Mai bus station and you catch songthaew (red truck taxi) to getting to your hotel. The general price for the songthaew from the bus station – the city center is around 60 Baht ($1.97) / person.

If you want to go from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, you take tuk tuk / songthaew to Chiang Mai bus station, and catch the bus to Bangkok. The tuk tuk here is like many other places in Thailand that always say charge high price and quite arrogant. If you traveling in a group, you can pay fixed price for one, but if you traveling alone you should find people with the same needs like you to share money for cheap. The price for groups of 4-5 people is 30-40 Baht ($0.98 – $1.31) per person depending on the location you will depart.

By train (#chiang mai travel blog)

Traveling by train in Thailand is quite convenient, but slower than taking the bus. The journey between Bangkok – Chiang Mai by train will take about 12-14 hours, you can book tickets in advance at the two websites I mentioned above, or directly via http://www.thailandtrainticket.com , if going on the peak season festival, you should book early to avoid running out of tickets.

The train station to Chiang Mai is Hualamphong, you catch Skytrain to Hualamphong and you will see the train station close to the Skytrain station. Train tickets are more expensive than buses, ranging from 600-1.100 Baht ($19.66 – $36.04), but taking the train will be more comfortable than the bus because there is no restraint, more space on the cabin to moving.

Chiang Mai city guide: Getting around Chiang Mai

Central Chiang Mai, also known as the Old Town, if you look on the map you will see it is a giant square, a square literally. You can easily go around the city by taxi, tuk tuk or songthaew, motorbike. Taxi prices are the most expensive, then tuk-tuk and songthaew. Songthaew here can considered as bus, can wave anywhere, jump up and go at almost fixed prices for each trip. In addition, you can rent a bike to getting around the center, but the most convenient is to rent a motorbike to fill fuel up and self-drive.

The condition for renting motorbike at many shops is that you have to driver’s license, they may require a deposit or a passport. The price of renting a motorbike in Chiang Mai is 200-300 Baht ($6.55-$9.28) / day depending on the type of motorbike, if you rent for several days you can deal with better prices. You just leave the passport for them to hold, very safe, don’t worry. Ride in Thailand to the left of the road, so you need to pay attention if you are not familiar, and one extremely careful thing when traveling by motorbike in Chiang Mai is to pay attention to the police. My trip encountered Thai police twice, once because of using the phone on the way and once they stopped suddenly to check the license. Those who do not have an international driver’s license will be fined, it seems the common penalty for violations here is 400 Baht ($13.10) / time, of course you have to go to the police station to pay a fine, not on the spot.

Chiang Mai blog: Where to stay in Chiang Mai?

In Chiang Mai, the most popular area to stay is Old Town , almost all hotels, hostels, guesthouses are concentrated there, and also a place full of essential services, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. This area is similar to the old quarter in Hanoi, bustling and focused on attractions, recognizable very easily because it is located in a prominent square in the center of the city. In the middle of the eastern wall is Thapae Gate, another name of Old Town . Th hotel room rates in the Old Town are also among the highest in Chiang Mai, the price of a bed in a dorminity room in a hostel is around 250-400 Baht ($8.19-$13.10), a private room has an average price of 600 Baht ($19.65) or more.

In addition, you can refer to other areas such as:

Nimman Haemin : This is the northwestern neighborhood of the city, modern with many high-rise buildings as well as large shopping malls. There are also many apartments for rent here, but if you want to stay long for a month or more, the price is even better.

Riverside : The Ping River runs along North-South like the backbone of the city, creating a beautiful river view. This area is mainly luxury hotels or resorts, sometimes you can also find some resorts at affordable prices.

The area near the Night Bazaar : This area is located between the Ping River and the Old Town area, the price is a little better than the Old Town area and convenient for traveling because you can go to the old town as well as wander the walking street and go to the night market within 10 minutes.

I stayed at the @Box Hostel , it is very good .This is a hostel I have considered quite carefully to ensure an affordable price, the location is close to the central area, but the space is spacious and airy. There is a small swimming pool, quite a lot of trees so the fresh air as well as the design and decoration of the rooms, offices, and kitchen are very stylish. Box Hostel staffs are extremely friendly, available 24 hours a day and are always ready to help you, if you need to rent a motorbike, ask for a taxi, songthaew to the airport, the pier you just ask them without hesitation. A top rated hostel with room rates from $6/night (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

If your finances are good, you definitely have to stay at The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai hotel , one of the most luxurious hotels and bearing the signature Thai style. This hotel is located quite far from the center but should not missed, the design is both modern and classic, spacious campus and services are always ready to serve all your needs. A 5-star top rated hotel with room rates from $227/night (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Also for those who love fancy style, unique, you should consider the Kaomai Lanna Resort , designed in a direction closer to nature with rustic wooden houses surrounded by climbing plants. The whole resort is a lush green garden, fresh air very suitable for high mountains areas like Chiang Mai. A 3-star top rated hotel with room rates from $33/night (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

We also reviewed the best areas to stay in Chiang Mai and the best hostels and homestays in Chiang Mai. You can refer to the following two articles:

• Top hostels in Chiang Mai — 9 best hostels in Chiang Mai & cheap homestay in Chiang Mai.
• Where to stay in Chiang Mai? — Top 3 best places to stay in Chiang Mai for first timers.

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews from $7 you can refer to.

Sakorn Residence & Hotel , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $28/night. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Cmor Hotel Chiang Mai by Andacura , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $33/night. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Pha-Thai House , a top rated 2-star hotel with room rates from $22/night. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Rustic River Boutique , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $19/night. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Khum Phaya Resort & Spa, Centara Boutique Collection , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $91/night. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Le Naview @Prasingh , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $29/night. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Golden Bell Hotel , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $30/night. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

About booking in Chiang Mai, you just go to Booking or Agoda , if you traveling with family, large groups can book through AirBnb with many beautiful and comfortable apartments.

Chiang Mai Thailand blog: What and where to eat in Chiang Mai?

The most famous dish not to be missed in Chiang Mai is Khao Soi (Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Noodle Soup), the most famous restaurant specializing in this dish is Khao Soi Khun Yai (Address: Sri Poom 8 Alley, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand / Hours: 9AM–2PM; Sunday: Closed) located in the middle of the upper edge of the square shape of Old Town. I came to this shop on a sunny morning, the shop is pretty and rustic, with only a main chef and a waitress. The shop opens from 9AM to early early afternoon, heard that if you do not come early, the shop may run out of food.

The price for a Khao Soi part is about 40-60 Baht ($1.31-$1.97) depending on whether you buy additional food or not. In my opinion, this dish is also good, not too excellent, like rice noodles, dried noodles of Vietnam, with the choice of eating with chicken or beef. Eating at Khao Soi Khun Yai is quite simple, if you eat in luxurious restaurants you will have more choices of side dishes, the dish also looks more eye-catching. Other places you can refer to eating Khao Soi such as Khao Soi Mae Sai (Address: 29/1 Ratchaphuek Alley, Tambon Chang Phueak, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand / Hours: 8AM–4PM; Sunday: Closed / Phone: +66 53 213 284) , Kao Soy Nimman (Address: 22 Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 7, Tambon Su Thep, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai , Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand / Hours: 11AM–8PM / Phone: +66 53 894 881).

In addition, the food in Chiang Mai also is similar to Bangkok, with Pad Thai, Tom Yum or noodles. You can easily find them at the night markets such as Night Bazaar, or right outside the @Box Hostel where I stayed, there is also an evening food court with many Thai dishes, quite bustling. The photo below is a Thai style of seafood stir-fried vermicelli plate with the general characteristics along of other Thai dishes is bold, spicy and sweet, I eat in the food court near my hotel. The noodle bowl of roasted duck below I ate in a Chinese restaurant, this area is in the center of Old Town, including a row of restaurants selling breakfast food.

Read more: Chiang Mai Night Bazaar restaurants — Top 10 food courts & best restaurants near Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.

In addition to food, Chiang Mai is also famous for its gentle and peaceful cafes in street corners, where you can live slowly in this land of Northern Thailand. Imagine bringing a book, sipping a cup of tea or coffee in a small cafe with lots of trees, outside is light sunny and warm, nothing more wonderful. If you bring a film camera or a compact camera, then it is perfect, nowhere to enjoy the peaceful space more wonderful than this place. You can go to the street in front of Wat Chedi Luang temple where there are quite a lot of delicious cafes or smoothies, and there is also a delicious mango sticky rice stall in front of the gate of the temple.

We have a list of cafes you have to visit here: Best cafes in Chiang Mai — Top 9 unique & best coffee shops in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Chiang Mai travel guide: Best places to visit and top things to do in Chiang Mai

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18 Best Chiang Mai Restaurants, Cafes And Markets

By Author Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Chiang Mai food forged a place in our hearts with its deep flavors and liberal use of chili peppers. Go beyond typical Chiang Mai restaurants and you’ll fall in love with the food too. If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Chiang Mai, read on to discover our picks for 18 awesome spots in the Northern Thailand city.

A month in Chiang Mai was just enough time for us to fall in love with Northern Thailand’s quirky city filled with temples, night markets and expats. Although the expats can rightfully take credit for the abundance of trendy eateries and third wave coffee shops, the Chiang Mai food scene remains true to its flavorful Thai food roots.

Discover 26 Thai food favorites .

This is a city where people step over cracked sidewalks to reach food served under tin roofs and atop folding tables. Flavors in the best Thai food dishes are intense and deep thanks to the liberal use of ingredients like lemongrass, chilis, turmeric, makrut limes and coconut.

Book a 3-hour Chiang Mai street food tour .

Chiang Mai Food Guide | What And Where To Eat In Chiang Mai

Don’t rule out Chiang Mai’s restaurant scene. Michelin found 40 notable Chiang Mai eateries to feature in its inaugural guide in 2020. The famous food guide awarded 17 restaurants with the ‘Bib Gourmand’ rating and 13 with a ‘Michelin Plate’. And the best part? Most of the Michelin-approved restaurants, including those recommended in this guide, won’t break your bank.

Despite its presence in Michelin’s guide, Chiang Mai has seemingly endless cheap, good food at places as varied as malls, markets, shacks and restaurants. As a bonus for travelers, the best places to eat in Chiang Mai are relatively reasonable, making splurges easier to justify.

Pro Tip Save special meals for countries like France and Japan and instead spend your time in Chiang Mai eating some of the best street food in the world.

Although there are many reasons to travel to Thailand , food was our top motivation for spending a month in Chiang Mai. This is a city where food takes center stage and tempting aromas drift through the air. During our month long Chiang Mai food tour, we found the best food with our noses instead of from a Chiang Mai food blog or guidebook.

We traversed the city with a Chiang Mai map and ate it all in this Northern Thai foodie paradise. Along the way, we ate a wonderful sampling of the best food to eat in Chiang Mai. To say we never went hungry is an understatement!

Roll up your sleeves and grab your spoon, the Thai eating utensil of choice, as we share the ‘musts’ on what to eat in Chiang Mai.

Khao Soi is the one dish that you absolutely must eat in Chiang Mai.

If you only have one meal in Chiang Mai, it should be Khao Soi. If you only have two meals, then you should eat Khao Soi again. Hopefully, you have at least four meals because Chiang Mai has four ‘not to miss’ spots to eat Khao Soi.

Watch our Khao Soi video to watch us eat Khao Soi in Chiang Mai.

For the uninitiated, Khao Soi is a soup flavored with yellow curry and coconut milk, loaded with boiled noodles and then topped with fried noodles. Although Khao Soi is traditionally prepared with chicken or beef to comply with Muslim dietary rules, newer Chiang Mai restaurants, like Khao Soi Nimman, add various proteins like seafood and pork.

Pro Tip Be sure to add condiments to your bowl of Khao Soi. Popular sides are chopped shallots, pickled mustard greens, spicy roasted chili paste and lime juice.

Each Chiang Mai restaurant provides a unique version based on the cook’s upbringing and preferences. Our favorite Khao Soi spots are Khao Soi Khun Yai, Khao Soi Lam Duan, Khao Soi Mae Sai and Khao Soi Nimman.

Do yourself a favor and try all four of our favorite spots.

Khao Soi Khun Yai is located at Sri Poom 8 Alley, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand. Khao Soi Lam Duan is located at 352/22 Thanon Charoenrat, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Khao Soi Mae Sai is located at29/1 Ratchaphuek Alley, Tambon Chang Phueak, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand. Khao Soi Nimman is located at Nimmanhemin Soi 7, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Khao Kha Moo

Khao Kha Moo is a popular Chiang Mai dish, and nobody does it better than the famous “cowboy hat lady” at the Chang Phuak night market.

We dare you to find a better value for a dollar than this plate of succulent stewed pork leg served over rice with an egg and flavorful sides like pickled mustard greens and garlic chili sauce.

It’s no wonder that crowds line up each night for the dish loved by locals and made famous by Anthony Bourdain. It’s a winner!

Watch our Khao Kha Moo video to watch us eat Khao Kha Moo in Chiang Mai.

Khao Kha Moo Chang Phuak is located by the North Gate at Thanon Manee Nop Parat, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Mai, Thailand

We could eat rice noodles every day and never tire of their taste and texture. Perhaps that’s an exaggeration, but we’re willing to accept such a challenge in Chiang Mai where rice noodles are a staple served with all kinds of herbs, vegetables and proteins.

It’s easy to find Pad Thai in Chiang Mai. Though more of a Bangkok specialty, the national dish is also popular in Thailand’s second biggest city, especially at street vendors and fast dining establishments. Everybody loves Pad Thai, typically prepared with stir-fried noodles, peanuts and shrimp.

While in Chiang Mai, we expanded our noodle repertoire to include Pat See Ew made with wider rice noodles and soy sauce as well as Pat Kii Mao, a spicier noodle dish with veggies. If you’re looking for a meat-free option, noodles are often a good way to go.

Noodles are available everywhere in Chiang Mai – yet another reason that we love Chiang Mai.

Roast Chicken

In many cuisines, chicken is a bland, one-note dish. This approach is not the case in Chiang Mai where cooks flavor chicken as much as any other protein with cooking styles that vary by restaurant and by technique.

Watch our Thai Roast Chicken video to watch us eat the tasty dish in Chiang Mai.

We found our favorite Thai roast chicken dishes at Cherng Doi Roast Chicken, Kiet Ocha and SP Chicken. Each of these spots serves their own version that’s both cheap and excellent. The only way to find your favorite is to try them all once. Maybe twice.

Cherng Doi Roast Chicken is located at Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Thailand in the Nimman neighborhood. Kiet Ocha is located at 41 43 Intaworos rd., Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand SP Chicken is located at Samlan Rd Soi 1, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.

Elevated Street Food

Eating in Chiang Mai never bored us with the city’s variety of good food and eateries. We stumbled into Arroy Dee for Pad Thai on our first night and then returned several times to enjoy other delicious Thai food including popular Chiang Mai dishes like Khai Jiao (crispy omelets deep-fried in oil) and loaded Tom Yum Soup.

Any time we wondered where to eat in Chiang Mai, we came back to this shack for some of the best food in Chiang Mai. Arroy Dee translates from Thai to delicious or yummy, which is no exaggeration here.

Watch our Delicious Thai Food video to watch us eat a smorgasbord of typical Chiang Mai dishes.

Aroy Dee is located “under the tree” on Sirimangkalajarn in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Night Market Food

Night markets are wildly popular from the huge weekend Chiang Mai night bazaar inside the walls to Chang Puak by the Elephant Gate where the “Cowboy Hat Lady” sets up shop every night. We tried a lot of the Chiang Mai night markets, and our favorite was the Sum Meut Market a/k/a Hiding in the Dark Market.

Open three nights a week, this smaller market outside of the Tops grocery store has it all including two of our local street food favorites – meat on a stick and Khanom Krok.

Pro Tip Take a break from the hustle-bustle of Chiang Mai with a weekend trip to nearby Pai. In Pai, you can chill on a hammock or enjoy coffee with a view . Popular with the backpacking crowd, Pai has numerous food stalls like the one pictured above. Check out options for traveling from Chiang Mai to Pai .

Meat On A Stick

We love to eat meat on a stick when we travel. Each cuisine takes this grilled staple and adds its own twist. People in Chiang Ma typically grill sausage so that it’s spicy, sour and full of flavor.

When you walk around a night market, eating meat on a stick is a must eat Chiang Mai food option unless you’re a vegetarian.

Khanom Krok

We stumbled upon Khanom Krok at the Sum Meut Market for the first time. The vendor laughed when we asked for hot sauce . It turns out that Khanom Krok are coconut rice pancakes and are best eaten as dessert.

The version that we like best incorporates sweet corn into the coconut pancake. As a bonus, this Chiang Mai local food is vegetarian-friendly.

Discover 100 more of the best desserts around the world .

Chiang Mai Cafes

We didn’t look for western food to eat in Chiang Mai, but it’s hard to miss the many cafés sprinkled throughout the expat neighborhoods. Since there’s only so much spicy food that we can eat, we eventually drifted into local favorites that cater to westerners with dishes that we would normally find on brunch menus back home.

Many of the best cafés in Chiang Mai are located in the Nimman neighborhood. We recommend both Larder Cafe & Bar and Rustic & Blue for their cool vibes and western comfort food.

The Larder Cafe & Bar is located at 3/9 Sukkasem Rd | Suthep, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand. Rustic & Blue is located at Nimman Soi 7, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand.

Global Cuisine

If you’re feeling homesick, there’s no shame in grabbing a burger at Beast Burger or eating some pizza at Why Not? These two restaurants serve solid versions of popular Western fare. We ate at both during our month in Chiang Mai without any regrets.

Beast Burger is located at Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200 Thailand. Why Not? is located at Nimman Soi 11, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand.

Chiang Mai Drinks

Drinks are everywhere in Chiang Mai from juice to beer and everything in-between. Though we drank our fair share of lager beer in Chiang Mai, we fell in love with the city’s coffee and smoothies.

Since there’s a happening Chiang Mai coffee scene, we originally planned to try a different coffee bar every day both for the experience and for our Chiang Mai guide. We started our noble venture at Akha Ama and were pleased with our cappuccinos.

However, we hit trouble at Ristr8to Lab. Ristr8to’s coffee drinks were so good that they tainted our visits at other coffee bars.

Watch our Chiang Mai Coffee video to watch us drink the best coffee in Chiang Mai.

Though we found some other excellent Chiang Mai coffee bars like Ming Mitr Coffee, Nimmanian Club and Nine One Coffee, we eventually abandoned our plan and just went to Ristr8to Lab every day for guaranteed coffee bliss.

Akha Ama is located at 9/1 Mata Apartment, Hassadhisawee Rd, Soi 3, ถ.หัสดิเสวี ซอย 3, Changphuak, Muang ช้างเผือก, เมือง, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand. Ming Mitr has multiple locations in Chiang Mai. Nine-One Coffee is located at Moo 2 30 Tumbon Pamiang, Doi Saket 50220, Thailand. Ristr8to Lab is located at 14 Nimmanhaemin rd soi 3 Suthep Mueang เชียงใหม่ 50200, Thailand.

We kind of love smoothies. How happy were we when we realized that not only are they readily available in Chiang Mai but they’re also cheap? After taste-testing several, and by several we mean a lot, we can report that mango is our favorite flavor and the one you should try first.

Smoothies are available all over Chiang Mai.

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Chiang Mai foods include Khao Soi, Khao Kha Moo, Noodles and Roast Chicken. You’ll want to eat them all at local restaurants and street food stalls.

With a few upscale exceptions, Chiang Mai restaurants typically fit into the cheap eats category.

No. Tipping is optional in Thailand.

Anthony Bourdain visited Aroon Rai, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Him Tang, Huen Phen Restaurant, Khao Kha Muu a.k.a. the Cowboy Hat Lady, Laap Kao Cham Cha and Rot Nueng Noodle Shop while filming the third season of Parts Unknown .

Phil Rosenthal slurped Khao Soi at Khao Soi Loong Prakid Gard Gorm while filming the first season of Somebody Feed Phil.

People typically eat dinner between 6pm and 8pm in Chiang Mai but many stalls and restaurants are open much later.

Reservations are not necessary at many restaurants in Chiang Mai. However, you should make reservations at special occasion restaurants to avoid dining disappointment.

Chiang Mai does not currently have any Michelin-starred restaurants.

Chiang Mai Cooking Class

Taking a cooking class is a great way to delve into a city’s cuisine while traveling. The folks in Chiang Mai have clearly embraced this concept, and taking a Chiang Mai cooking class is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai.

We spent a day cooking and eating Chiang Mai cuisine including Khao Soi. During the class, local Chef Panphalin Puntira (Lin) patiently demonstrated and taught local cooking techniques while sharing stories about Lanna Thai culture and her fascinating life.

We enjoyed the small group setting and vibe of this class and would recommend it to anybody wanting to learn more about Lanna cuisine.

Click here to book a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai.

More Things To Do In Chiang Mai

Here are some great ideas for more things to do in Chiang Mai beyond taking a cooking class :

• Visit an elephant jungle sanctuary where you can bathe the elephants.
• Spend a day touring Chiang Mai’s grandest temple, Doi Suthep .
• Check out five hedonistic things in Chiang Mai.
• Pamper yourself with a Thai massage at a spa .
• Take a four-hour cycling food tour.
• Get a Sak Yant Tatoo .

If you fall in love with Thailand, you may decide to stay for an extended time . Either way, you should check out Chiang Mai travel costs before your trip. Spoiler alert: Chiang Mai is NOT expensive.

Chiang Mai Planning Checklist

• Buy discounted travel insurance from Heymondo .
• Find a great Chiang Mai hotel via Booking.com , Expedia or Hotels.com .
• Find an  apartment in Chiang Mai with a kitchen .
• Pre-arrange  car service from the Chiang Mai airport .
• Buy a  universal travel adaptor  from Amazon so you can charge your laptop, cell phone and camera in Asia.
• Buy a Chiang Mai travel guide from Amazon so that you don’t miss any bites or sites.
• Arrange a  rental car  for your trip.
• Book a fun Chiang Mai tour with GetyYourGuide or Viator .
• Book a tasty Chiang Mai food experience .
• Get an online  Thailand visa .

Hungry For More In Asia?

About the Authors

Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Saveur Magazine’s BEST TRAVEL BLOG award winners Daryl and Mindi Hirsch share their culinary travel experiences and recipes on the 2foodtrippers website. Since launching the site in 2012, they’ve traveled to over 40 countries in their quest to bring readers a unique taste of the world.

Disclosures

Article Updates We update our articles regularly. Some updates are major while others are minor link changes and spelling corrections. Let us know if you see anything that needs to be updated in this article. Funding We self-funded our trip to Chiang Mai.

Original Publication Date: November 1, 2016

Tony Stewart

Monday 5th of July 2021

It's sad that at the moment I can't go back to Chiang Mai any time soon because of Covid. I really liked your overview of food in Chiang Mai and your section on Khao Soy. Many tourists don't realise what a gourmet city Chiang Mai is and how unique some of the foods such as Khao Soy are. Food in Cjhaing Mai is also much cheaper than in Bangkok. Congratulations on what you achieved in a month.

As a regular visitor to Chiang Mai I would also add to your suggestions the many fabulous markets and other more hidden cheap eats. I've also written about Khao Soy, Akha food and Thai influenced Vietnamese.

However, I think you are a bit unfair about other cuisines. I am a big fan of French and Italian food in Chiang Mai. It is perhaps not as gourmet as in Paris or Italy but they are genuine Italian and French chefs and the food is ridiculously cheap compared with restaurants in Western countries. I also like some of the best franchise food options, such as MK in places like Airport Plaza. And, there are terrific cafes in Chiang Mai as well, as you mention.

For such a small city Chiang Mai has an amazing array of food options. I agree with you it is well worth the effort to explore and street food tours and cooking classes are an excellent way to begin to understand Chiang Mai food.

I love the food in Asia. Keep up the good work.

Sunday 11th of July 2021

We can't wait to return to Asia in general and Chiang Mai in particular. We'll check out your suggestions regarding international food when we do.

Wednesday 5th of February 2020

Love being in Chiang mai and eat my way through the city, using your guide. Yet many place close quite early (doesn’t say in the post) and couldn’t find the cowboy hat lady at the night market. Tomorrow another day so hopefully better luck then. Still had a wonderful Tom Yum and Red Curry at the same night market near the northern gate.

Tanzila Malik

Thursday 2nd of January 2020

Great post, thanks for sharing.

BangkokBestDinning

Wednesday 18th of December 2019

Thanks for Sharing and wonderful post !!

Wednesday 1st of May 2019

I love all your food recommendations and have eaten at many spots you suggested! It would be great if you could remove your suggestions for visiting elephants in Chiang Mai as this is a very unethical part of tourism. Unless you can provide examples of ethical elephant tourism it’s very careless to broadly suggest it especially since a lot of people are not educated on the issue.

Thanks for your comment. Our only suggestion related to elephants is an option to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary. We in no way condone the unethical treatment of elephants nor does this suggested activity.