Doi Ang Khang has earned its reputation as Thailand’s own Switzerland, a fact that can be attributed to its cold climate and scenic mountain peaks.
Chiang Mai Area – Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand. Nestled near some of the highest mountains in Thailand, the city was established in 1294 as Lanna’s new capital after Chiang Rai.
Its strategic location by the Ping River and many nearby major trading routes have made the city economically significant – especially in its early days!
Chiang Mai Attractions, Must See Temples & Things To Do, Thailand
For many, Chiang Mai is a laid-back city to visit; especially after experiencing the madness that Bangkok is known for. It attracts all kinds of travellers, as well as ex-pats, who enjoy a good quality of life, and an affordable one at that. The city is also known for being a foodie hotspot since many come to experience the diversity of Lanna cuisine, which is different from what you’ll find in the south.
Chiang Mai is perhaps best known for its temples; it’s home to more than 300 Buddhist temples located in and around town. The most famous of these is the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, located on a mountain called Doi Suthep. The temple is accessible by trekking up the mountain, but you can also hire a songthaew or rent a motorbike to get there much quicker.
Wat Chedi Luang is a haunting yet beautiful ruin. Built in 1401, the structures were destroyed during a 1545 earthquake but today it is still awe-inspiring.
Be sure to check out Wat Phra Singh; located in the Old City. It is the largest temple in the city and its construction dates back to 1345. It’s home to the Phra Viharn Lai Kam; a sacred shrine built during King San Muang Ma’s reign.
The gate night market is a must-visit for the sheer amount of delicious and inexpensive street food in Chiang Mai. Don’t forget to order pad krapow; a dish made of spicy meat with herbs. Savour the many different types of northern Thai street food, and end your meal with a serving of mango sticky rice.
There’s so much to do in Chiang Mai: from cooking classes, street food, temples, elephant camps, nightlife, and hiking – you’ll never run out of things to do in this scenic town!
Wat Pan Tao is a small but very interesting temple, especially for visitors who are thrilled by Thailand’s unique heritage and religious framework.
Whilst you are in Chiang Mai, you may be interested to learn more about the Karen Long Neck Tribespeople who live in parts of northern-Thailand. The Karen people are traditionally from Myanmar (Burma) and fled to...
Huay Tung Tao Lake is a secluded getaway north of Chiang Mai. The fresh water body is a secluded getaway, and is rarely crowded.
Wat Umong, in full, Wat Umong Suan Puthatham, is an old temple nestled in Chiang Mai in the northern parts of Thailand. Locals also refer to it as Oomong.
Wat Pha Lat is one of the most magical temples in Chiang Mai. That’s because unlike others, it’s nestled in the lush forests and you’ll have to take a short but rewarding hike to get there. Unlike...
Mae Ya waterfall is one of Thailand’s best and biggest waterfalls. It is amazingly scenic too, with its stunning cascades pouring through verdant jungles. Located within the Doi Inthanon National Park, it is the...
The Samoeng Loop is a thrilling attraction for adventure lovers. If you enjoy exploring destinations on a motorbike, this one is highly recommended! It provides a great alternative, or a new adventure, once you’ve...
Loi Kroh Rd is considered as Chiang Mai’s red-light district area; located between the Ping River and the Old City moat. This street is where you will find girlie bars and other similar bars, clubs, and watering...
Mae Sa Waterfall is one of Thailand’s premier tourist attractions. It is best known for its magnificent waterfalls amid the gorgeous natural landscape.
Elephant Rescue Park is one of the best animal encounter experiences in northern Thailand. They offer an incredible environment where elephants can roam freely in their natural habitat, while humans can interact with...
The Malin Plaza market is one of the best markets in Chiang Mai. Although the city already has the famous Walking Street markets and many others, this one is still worth visiting especially if you’re on a budget...
Wat Phra That Doi Kham is a spectacular temple located on the lush mountain slopes just close to Chiang Mai town. It is a popular tourist attraction too.
Wat Ram Poeng, also known as Tapotaram, is a meditation retreat for visitors who would like to tap into the power of meditation during their travels.
Wiang Kum Kam is an ancient settlement of historical importance in Thailand as it is not just a rich archaeological site, but also a popular attraction.
Camp Chiang Mai is one of the city’s premier co-working spaces. It’s located on Maya mall’s top floor; a shopping mall found at the intersection of Huay Kaew and Nimmanahaemin road. In a land often...
The Nawarat Bridge is a popular bridge that overlooks the Mae Ping River in Chiang Mai; usually the site of important cultural events that including the Loy Krathong festival. Because most of Thailand’s cities are...
Wat Mahawan is a must-visit prime tourist attraction located close to the old walled city of Chiang Mai, right next to the popular Tha Phae Gate.
Wat Lok Molee, also known as Wat Lok Moli, is a temple located in the old Chiang Mai city, just about half a kilometre from the famous Chang Phuak gate.
Baanchang Elephant Park is dedicated to offering elephants the best care while preserving their environment. This attracts tourists from far and wide.
Hug Elephant Sanctuary is a park for elephants that have been rescued from all over Thailand. Please note that there is NO ELEPHANT RIDING. Hug Elephant Sanctuary was founded in 2015 in response to the exploitative...
Chiang Mai Elephant Legend is a highly recommended elephant sanctuary. If you’d like to make a difference during your travels, or love animals, this place will be a fulfilling and fun experience. Chiang Mai...
Into The Wild Elephant Camp in Chiang Mai provides a unique elephant encounter that all ages will love. Unlike other elephant experiences, all the elephants here are free to roam in their natural habitat, play in the...
Karen Tribe Native Elephants is one of Chiang Mai’s top eco-tourism experiences. They offer ethical elephant-centred activities with a unique cultural twist: that’s because it’s a non-profit...
Ban Hmong Mae Sa Mai is the go-to village for anyone who wants to experience what it is like to enjoy life in a traditional Thai village in the north.
Mae Ping River flows through Chiang Mai, attracting visitors to its waters. The locals on the other hand, acknowledge that this is the city’s lifeline.
Huay Kaew Waterfall is a great place for visitors who don’t have a lot of time in Chiang Mai and want to see a waterfall that is close to town. Huay Kaew Waterfall is located near the Chiang Mai Zoo, just 100...
The Wachirathan Waterfall is an incredible attraction you will encounter within the Doi Inthanon National Park. It’s the second biggest falls on the way to the summit, and is definitely one of the more impressive...
Baan Kang Wat is an incredible artist village in Chiang Mai; a testament to the unique creativity and talent of northern Thailand. Whether its contemporary arts or traditional wood carving and weaving, this part of the...
Wat Chet Yot, also known to the locals as Wat Jed Yod, is a beautiful temple nestled in Chiang Mai’s serene surroundings, and a popular tourist attraction.
Mae Ping River Cruise
Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai
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A Mae Ping River Cruise is a terrific day trip that takes you away from the typical sights of Chiang Mai to experience something a little different. A leisurely two-hour cruise aboard a cosy boat that travels through...
Maerim Shooting Range goes on to prove that Chiang Mai’s attractions go beyond just natural attractions and temples; there is also adventure.
The Op Luang National Park is a fun, adventurous destination for outdoor lovers near Chiang Mai, located around 20 kilometres away from Hot, on Route 108. Even if you’ve never been to a rugged outdoor area before...
Sri Lanna National Park is the 8th largest national park in the country; being declared as the 60th national park in Thailand on August 1989; It covers 1,406 square kilometres of the mountainous area from Prao, Chiang...
Mae Kampong Village is one of the most fascinating high altitude villages in Chiang Mai. It is also easily accessible, making it a popular attraction.
Sibsongpanna Khantoke is testament to the importance of traditional culture in Thailand, and attracts locals and foreigners from all over the world.
Wattana Art Gallery is home to exciting works of art in all of Thailand; little wonder the gallery attracts both locals and foreigners in their numbers.
Chiang Mai Cabaret Show
Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai
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The Chiang Mai Cabaret Show is a fun way to spend an evening in Chiang Mai, as you watch ladyboys and drag queens strut their stuff whilst lip syncing to your favourite songs! Located in the Anusarn Market Night Bazaar...
The Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium is a large state of the art facility located inside the Chiang Mai Zoo, at the base of Doi Suthep mountain. The Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium was substantially renovated in 2018 and has one of the...
The Iron Bridge in Chiang Mai is one of the city’s most well-known landmarks. A majestic creation made out of steel, it has an old feel to it but it’s actually modern – built as a homage to the Nawarat...
What are the top attractions to visit in Chiang Mai?
The top attractions to visit in Chiang Mai are:
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Elephant Nature Park
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Doi Inthanon National Park
- Grand Canyon Chiang Mai
What are the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai with kids?
The most popular things to do in Chiang Mai with kids are:
- Elephant Nature Park
- Chiang Mai Night Safari
- Flight of The Gibbon
- Chiang Mai Zoo
- Catmosphere Cat Cafe
What can you do in Chiang Mai for free?
The most popular things to do in Chiang Mai for free are:Check out the whole list of attractions in Chiang Mai.