13 things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai serves as a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern influences.
Chiang Mai, located in the mountainous region of northern Thailand, is a city steeped in rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Often referred to as the “Rose of the North,” Chiang Mai serves as a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, making it a popular destination for travellers seeking a unique and immersive experience.
Founded in 1296, Chiang Mai was the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, and its historical significance is evident in the well-preserved temples, city walls, and moats that still define the Old City today. The city has been a centre of cultural and religious importance, boasting a myriad of ornate temples, each with its own unique architectural style and historical stories.
A melting pot of cultures, Chiang Mai has a strong influence from its indigenous hill tribes, such as the Karen, Hmong, and Akha people. This diversity is reflected in the local arts, crafts, and traditions, making the city an enchanting tapestry of colours, textiles, and rituals. Surrounded by lush mountains and verdant landscapes, Chiang Mai also offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Northern Thai cuisine is a highlight in Chiang Mai, featuring distinctive flavours and dishes not commonly found in other parts of the country. Khao Soi, a coconut curry noodle soup, and Sai Ua, a spicy Northern Thai sausage, are just a few examples of the delicious culinary offerings awaiting visitors.
While preserving its cultural heritage, Chiang Mai has also embraced modernity, evident in the trendy Nimmanhaemin Road, which features hip cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. The city's vibrant markets, such as the Night Bazaar, offer a lively atmosphere where visitors can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Whether you're exploring ancient temples, trekking through scenic landscapes, indulging in local delicacies, or immersing yourself in cultural festivities, Chiang Mai promises a captivating and multifaceted journey that caters to a wide range of interests. Here are some things you can do while visiting Chiang Mai.
1. Explore Old City and temples
Wander through the ancient temples in the Old City, such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. Located within the moated Old City are also the Three Kings Monument, Chiang Mai Gate Market and Tha Phae Walking Street.
Chiang Mai Old City & Temples Guided Walking Tour - 2 Hours
Private Doi Suthep-Chiang Mai City Temple Tour by TTD Global
2. Hike through the National Parks
Take a trip to Doi Suthep, a mountain near Chiang Mai, and visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep with dazzling gold stupa and pagodas. After visiting the stunning Buddhist temple that offers panoramic views of the city, you can explore the lush landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.
Doi Suthep Trekking Half and Full Day Tour in Chiang Mai
Not enough? Check out Doi Inthanon National Park. Home to the country's highest peak, the park encompasses diverse ecosystems, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna. You can explore lush trails, marvel at the Royal Twin Pagodas, and witness vibrant bird species.
Doi Inthanon National Park Day Tour
3. Shop at Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
What’s Thailand without some night markets and local street food, right? At Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, you can shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs, on top of trying local delicacies. If you’re eager to do more shopping, there are also other night bazaars in the region, such as Chinatown Night Bazaar and Kalare Night Bazaar.
4. Try local cuisine
Sample traditional Northern Thai dishes, such as Khao Soi (curry noodle soup), Sai Ua (grilled spicy sausage), and Som Tum (green papaya salad). I don’t know about you, but these sound appetising already!
Chiang Mai Michelin Food Walking Tour
5. Visit elephant sanctuaries
Elephants are a sacred national symbol in Thailand. If you want to learn more about them and help with their conservation, you can visit an elephant sanctuary. However, remember to choose an ethical elephant sanctuary where you can interact with these majestic creatures in a responsible way.
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai Experience
Chiang Mai Kerchor Elephant Eco Park Tour
6. Enjoy a Thai massage
One of the biggest joys of visiting Thailand, in this case Chiang Mai, is of course to treat yourself to some Thai massage. You can experience the relaxation of traditional Thai massage at one of the city’s many spas and wellness centres.
Let's Relax Spa Experience in Chiang Mai
Fah Lanna Spa Experience at the Old Town Branch in Chiang Mai
7. Attend festivals and events
Check the local calendar for festivals and events. Yi Peng Lantern Festival and Loy Krathong are popular festivals celebrated in Chiang Mai with lantern releases and floating flower offerings.
8. Explore Nimman area
Visit Nimmanhaemin Road for trendy cafes, boutique shops, and a lively atmosphere. A hub for modern and creative spaces, Nimman is a relatively quieter area to stay at as compared to the Old City.
9. Spend a day at Chiang Mai Zoo
Combining conservation efforts with educational exhibits, Chiang Mai Zoo also houses an aquarium and is home to a wide variety of animals, including giant pandas and koalas. Given its size (200 acres, about 151 football fields), you can definitely clock in the recommended daily 10,000 steps. Apart from the zoo, you can also check out nocturnal animals at Chiang Mai Night Safari.
Chiang Mai Night Safari Park Ticket
10. Take a Muay Thai class
Muay Thai, often referred to as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” is a traditional Thai martial art renowned for its power, precision, and cultural significance. Combining striking techniques with clinch work, Muay Thai has evolved into a global sport, emphasising discipline, respect, and a deep connection to Thai heritage.
You can learn the basics of Muay Thai, Thailand's national sport, by participating in a local class. If you’re not into hands-on experience, you can also feel the heat and action at a boxing match.
Chiang Mai Thaphae Boxing Stadium Ticket
Chiangmai Kalare Night Bazaar Boxing Stadium Muay Thai
11. Get your adrenaline pumping
Thrill seekers can enjoy exciting activities like zip-lining and rafting at Chiang Mai’s various adventure parks. What’s a better way to appreciate Chiang Mai’s nature than these fun-filled activities?
Pongyang Jungle Coaster & Zipline
Jungle Flight Zipline Adventure Chiang Mai
Rafting with 8Adventures
8Adventures Trekking, Rafting and ATV Adventure in Chiang Mai
12. Cool it off at the Water Parks
A refreshing escape from the tropical heat, Tube Trek Water Park is equipped with a variety of water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, An exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages, it is a perfect blend of water-based fun and relaxation in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
Tube Trek Water Park Day Pass
Grand Canyon Water Park is a thrilling aquatic playground featuring exhilarating water slides, a lazy river, and a large pool. Catering to visitors of all ages and surrounded by scenic landscapes, it provides a fun-filled escape from the city heat.
Grand Canyon Water Park Ticket in Chiang Mai
13. Get in touch with the hill tribes
Indigenous communities, including Karen, Hmong, and Akha tribes, showcase traditional lifestyles, colourful textiles, and intricate handicrafts. You can immerse in the rich heritage of these ethnic groups, witness their daily routines, and appreciate the distinctive long neck adornments worn by the Padaung women.
Long Neck Village, Hill Tribes, and Wat Pha Lat Half-Day Tour
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