The 15 Best Things To Do In Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is one of the most popular cities in Thailand and it’s not hard to see why! Famous for its historical temples, delicious cuisine, mountainous landscape, and rich cultural heritage, this city has so much to offer.

A world away from the craziness of Bangkok, Chiang Mai offers a peaceful escape in Northern Thailand. Here, you can indulge in local street food, wander around beautiful temples, and take a day trip to the nearby national park.

In this post, we’ll detail the very best things to do in Chiang Mai. We’ll also cover other helpful information such as how to get around, where to stay, and how to get to the city!

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The Best Things To Do In Chiang Mai, Thailand

1. Explore Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Visiting the night bazaar is one of the top things to do in Chiang Mai. This bustling night market is located in the city centre, around a 15-minute walk from Tha Phae Gate.

It’s one of Chiang Mai’s best shopping destinations and is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir or two. Here, you’ll find a variety of items including local handicrafts, clothes, artwork, furniture, and homeware. Just make sure you haggle for a good price!

The highlight of this night market has to be the street vendors as you can try a variety of local dishes, ranging from noodles to fresh seafood. You can also try some tasty vegetarian spring rolls and chicken skewers.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar opens at 5 pm and typically stays open until midnight. The bustling atmosphere of this market offers a fantastic experience, especially as you explore later on in the evening.

2. Visit Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang is one of the city’s most special temples. This Buddhist temple is located in the historic centre of Chiang Mai, around a 5-minute walk from the Three Kings Monument.

Wat Chedi Luang dates back to the 14th century and is famous for its huge Buddhist chedi, which is an impressive 98 meters (321 feet) tall. The chedi was originally built in 1481 during King Mengrai’s reign. Unfortunately, the top was destroyed, possibly by an earthquake.

Originally, the Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaew) was held here, although it’s now located in Bangkok. Inside, there’s a jade replica which you can view. Wat Chedi Luang is also home to a standing Buddha statue, reclining Budhha, and a Chinese-influenced seated Buddha.

Entrance hours differ when looking online so keep this in mind. In our experience, you want to get here as early as possible, preferably between 8 am – 10 am (or even earlier).

3. Have fun at Grand Canyon Water Park

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Chiang Mai, head to Grand Canyon Water Park. It’s around a 25-minute drive from the city centre and is the perfect destination to visit on a hot day!

Grand Canyon Water Park is a fun outdoor water park, home to a large inflatable obstacle course and a variety of activities. Here, you can enjoy giant slides, a floating trampoline, and zip lines. It’s also possible to canoe and kayak around the water park if you’re looking for something more relaxing.

Those looking for more adventure can enjoy cliff-jumping, although it’s quite a drop! After having some fun, you can head to the on-site restaurant to refuel.

Grand Canyon Water Park is typically open from 10 am – 7 pm. You can purchase your entrance ticket in advance where you’ll have all-day access to the on-site water activities.

4. Enjoy the annual Yi Peng Lantern Festival

The Yi Peng Lantern Festival is one of Thailand’s most magical events. Also known as Yee Peng, this festival is celebrated on different dates every year (depending on the lunar calendar) but typically falls on November’s full moon night.

During this religious event, lanterns are lit to show devotion to the Buddha, and candles line the inner city. The highlight of this festival has to be the sky lanterns, which are lit to worship deities. These lanterns are believed to carry away ill fortunes, leaving space for good luck.

You can choose to get involved with the festival yourself but be very wary when letting go of a lantern. We saw many people lighting them under trees which could easily cause a fire, so please just be sensible.

Just be aware that finding affordable accommodation during this festival can be a real struggle, so you’ll want to book your stay in advance.

5. Try Thai cuisine

Thai cuisine is undoubtedly one of our favourite cuisines. There are so many delicious dishes to try, ranging from pad Thai to Tom yum, a traditional soup. Thanks to Chiang Mai’s location in northern Thailand, the food here is distinct, and there are plenty of additional dishes to try.

Khao soi was one of our favourite foods in Thailand. In our opinion, it’s a mix between a Thai curry and soup, and we opted for a chicken Khao soi. Khao Soi Maesai is a great spot to pick up this dish! Coconut Shell Thai Food is another popular restaurant.

This evening street food tour is a fantastic option for those who want to try the local cuisine. On this tour, you’ll visit two night markets and sample eight different foods. Your experienced guide will teach you how to order food in Thai and hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.

6. Visit Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan

Visiting Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan is another of the best things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This Buddhist temple dates back to 1345 and is the city’s most revered temple.

Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan houses Phra Phuttha Sihing, a revered Buddha statue. This statue is housed in a small chapel called Wihan Lai Kham, which is located south of the chedi (stupa). This chapel also boasts beautiful murals and exquisite woodcarvings.

Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan is a magical temple and the architecture will truly blow you away! It’s typically open from 9 am – 6 pm. The temple is just a 15-minute walk from Tha Phae Gate, so you can easily visit here before heading to the city’s night bazaar.

Tickets for tourists typically cost 50 THB (about £1), and you’ll need to keep your shoulders and knees covered (the dress code is very strict).

7. Explore other temples in Chiang Mai

There are so many amazing things to do in Chiang Mai, but the city’s temples are certainly a highlight. As well as Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, there are some other fantastic temples to visit!

Other temples in Chiang Mai include Wat Sri Suphan, Wat Phantao, Wat Lok Moli, and Wat Chiang Man. There’s also Wat Jet Lin, Wat Umong The Suan Buddha Dhamma, and Wat Ket Karam among others.

Alternatively, you can head outside of the city. Both Wat Phra That Doi Kham and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep are under a 30-minute drive from the city centre. You can either hire a scooter or take a taxi.

This guided walking tour lasts for 2 hours and will see you explore some of Chiang Mai’s most popular temples. These include Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Phan Tao. On this tour, you’ll have a local guide who will teach you about the history of each site.

8. Try out a Thai cooking class

There are plenty of things to see in Chiang Mai. However, there are also some fantastic experiences on offer, including taking a cooking class. Not only will you get to learn all about the local cuisine by taking a class, but you’ll also get to make traditional dishes, which you can then cook back at home.

This authentic Thai cooking class is a popular option! On this tour, you’ll get to visit a local organic farm and market, before you start making classic local dishes. You’ll also get to make your own curry paste. There’s a half-day and full-day class available.

This half-day cooking class is another fantastic option. At Smile Organic Farm Cooking School, you’ll learn how to make traditional dishes from scratch. Better yet, vegan and vegetarian dishes are available. Round-trip transfers are also included in this tour.

There are plenty of awesome cooking classes on offer so search for the one most suited to you!

9. Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary

Visiting an elephant sanctuary is a must-do in Chiang Mai. But, it’s important to search for an ethical organisation, as there are so many ‘sanctuaries’ in Thailand that don’t prioritise the elephant’s welfare.

Elephant Nature Park is a popular option, as one of Thailand’s leading elephant rescue and rehabilitation centres. It was founded by Saengduean Chailert, a renowned elephant rights advocate, and currently cares for over 100 elephants, many of which were rescued by the ‘Save the Elephant Foundation’.

The Living Green Elephant Sanctuary and Elephant Freedom Village are also supported by Responsible Travel.

We had a fabulous experience with elephants in Chiang Mai. However, if we had done further research back then, we would have opted for a more hands-off approach (although we made sure to choose a company that was against elephant rides). Luckily, we’re a lot more clued up now and always research experiences like this in-depth!

10. Take a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park is one of Thailand’s most popular national parks. It’s home to Doi Inthanon, the country’s tallest mountain at an elevation of 2,565 metres (8,415 feet).

Doi Inthanon National Park is known for its beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and pleasant climate, but it’s the wildlife that really steals the show. Over 500 bird species call this park home as well as various animals, including gibbons, clouded leopards, porcupines, bats, tortoises, lizards, and snakes.

This day tour to Doi Inthanon National Park lasts for 9 hours. On this tour, you’ll trek through the national park, meet and learn about the Karen Tribe, and visit Wachirathan Waterfall. Your tour guide, transport, and insurance are all included.

Alternatively, you can explore the park self-guided if you hire a scooter or car. The national park is around a 2.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai and is open all year round, 5:30 am to 6:30 pm.

11. Enjoy the nightlife in Chiang Mai

There are so many things to do in Chiang Mai at night. Popular activities include exploring the night bazaar, heading out on an evening river cruise, and enjoying a Cabaret show.

Chiang Mai also offers a great nightlife scene. First of all, there are some fantastic rooftop bars here. Rise Rooftop Bar and Myst MAYA are two of the top options, as they both offer amazing city views. There’s no better place to enjoy a cocktail or two!

Those who are after a more lively scene should head to one of Chiang Mai’s clubs. Zoe in Yellow is definitely the place to be once the sun goes down. Not only is there a fantastic atmosphere, but this club has awesome live DJs, and they serve beers in buckets. No wonder it’s a go-to for backpackers!

Alternatively, you can head to one of the city’s pubs – the UN Irish Pub & Restaurant and The Red Lion are two popular options.

12. Head to Bua Tong Waterfall

Although there are plenty of things to do in Chiang Mai City, there are some fantastic places to visit nearby. One of these is Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall (also known as the ‘Sticky Waterfall’), which is around an hour’s drive away.

Bua Tong is one of the more unique waterfalls in Thailand due to its unusual-looking rocks (which you can actually climb). The water flows down from a calcium-rich spring and along the way, mineral deposits are left on the rocks. These minerals prevent the likes of algae from growing on the rocks making them appear very smooth.

This popular day tour from Chiang Mai will see you visit Doi Suthep Temple as well as the waterfall. It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, entrance fees, and snacks, so you’ll get a lot for your money. You could also opt for this waterfall and cave tour, where you’ll get to climb into Bua Tong Cave.

13. Visit Chiang Mai’s museums

Another highlight of visiting Chiang Mai is the number of museums in the city. These offer you a great chance to take in the area’s history and culture, so try to visit at least one or two museums during your trip.

Those short of time should prioritise the Chiang Mai National Museum. There are three floors at the museum and each one displays a variety of items and artifacts relating to the Northern Thai culture. These include Lanna Buddha statues, historic photographs, and wood-carved objects.

The Lanna Folklife Museum is another fantastic museum. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the Sunday Night Market and is set within the former Provincial Court. This place will teach you all about the Lanna people and their lifestyle, culture, and traditions.

Other museums in Chiang Mai include the Highland People Discovery Museum, the Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders, and The Treasury Museum.

14. Watch a Muay Thai Boxing Match

Muay Thai boxing is an impressive form of martial art. It’s a full-contact sport that’s known for its sweeps, stand-up striking and various clinching techniques. This makes it a popular spectator sport.

Watching a Muay Thai boxing match is a must-do in Chiang Mai. You’ll get to watch a match at Thailand’s renowned Thapae Boxing Stadium, which is one of the oldest stadiums in the country.

You can purchase your Muay Thai match ticket in advance if you wish. You’ll choose from three different seating options (standard, ringside, or VIP seating), and there will be post-match photo opportunities too.

I’m not a big fan of brutal sports (I can’t even watch boxing) so we missed out on this one. However, if you’re braver than me, it’s certainly a great way to get a feel for Chiang Mai’s spirit as there’s apparently a fantastic atmosphere!

15. Take a day trip to Chiang Rai

Those with an extra day or two in Chiang Mai can always head to the city of Chiang Rai. Also located in Northern Thailand, this charming city is known for its temples, beautiful scenery, and laid-back atmosphere.

There are so many amazing things to do in Chiang Rai. Some of the most popular attractions include Wat Rong Khun, Wat Rong Suea Ten, the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, and the Baan Dam Museum.

This popular Chiang Rai temple tour will take you to some of the city’s best spots. You’ll visit both the White and Blue Temples, as well as Wat Saeng Kaew Phothiyan (the Temple of Light).

Chiang Rai is around a 3-hour drive from Chiang Mai. Those who don’t opt for a guided tour, can either hire a scooter or take the public bus. Just be aware that you’ll need to have an early start.

Helpful Information For Visiting Chiang Mai, Thailand

How to get to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand so you’ll have no issues getting here. The majority of travellers will visit from Bangkok which means you’ll have several options.

The quickest way to travel between the two is by air, with flights taking just over an hour. You can also travel overland by taking a train. Overnight services are available where you can opt for a sleeper berth, and the journey generally takes between 10-14 hours.

Alternatively, you can catch an overnight bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (which is what we did). Tickets cost approximately £20 and you won’t waste a day on travel. 12Go Asia is the website we used to book our transport throughout Southeast Asia as it’s super easy to use!

Those already in Northern Thailand can easily catch public transport to Chiang Mai. Buses are available from Chiang Rai and you can take a minibus from Pai.

How to get around Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get around!

If you’re staying in the city centre, you can visit many of the major attractions on foot. Those who want to get around quicker can hire a bicycle but just beware of the traffic as you’re cycling around.

As many of Chiang Mai’s iconic attractions are located out of the city centre, you should consider hiring a scooter or car. Having your own mode of transport is a huge bonus as you can easily visit places that just aren’t accessible by public transport.

Those who’d prefer not to drive can take advantage of the city’s many tuk-tuks and rickshaws, which offer you a fun way to get around. Just make sure you always agree on a price first. There’s also the RTC City Bus which covers a vast area of the city and charges a flat fare per ride.

The best time to visit Chiang Mai

November/December to March is considered the best time to visit Chaing Mai. Temperatures are cooler during this time of year and there’s less rainfall, so the climate is very comfortable. January is generally the coolest month of the year, but temperatures still hover around 23°C (73.4°F).

Those who wish to experience the annual Yi Peng Lantern Festival should visit in November. This is typically when the festival takes place, but you’ll want to check the dates and book any accommodation in advance. We visited at this time of year and had a fantastic time, but hostels/hotels were scarce (as we booked last minute).

The rainy season in Chiang Mai typically falls from May to October. The weather at this time of year is unpredictable and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 31°C (87.8°F). Although the climate isn’t ideal, you can get some fantastic bargains when it comes to accommodation.

Visiting Chiang Mai by tour

There are so many fantastic things to do in Chiang Mai. We prefer to explore independently, but there’s no denying that guided tours will give you more of a local insight. Those who prefer to have a guide are in luck because there are plenty of great tours on offer.

Here are some popular tour options in Chiang Mai:

• Old City and Temples Guided Walking Tour: This guided walking tour will take you to some of Chiang Mai’s most popular temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh.

• Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep, Wat Umong, and Pha Lat Sunrise Tour: After enjoying the sunrise at Doi Suthep Temple, you’ll head to some other popular spots. Entry fees and hotel pick-up/drop-off are included.

• Doi Suthep Temple and Sticky Waterfall Tour: Those who want to explore outside of the city should opt for this tour, where you’ll get to visit Bua Tong Waterfall. Lunch and entrance fees are included.

Where To Stay In Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of the largest cities in Thailand so there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hostel or a luxury 5* hotel, there’s something for everyone.

Here are some of our recommendations:

Budget: Love CNX Guesthouse

Love CNX Guesthouse is one of the most affordable properties in Chiang Mai. Boasting a family-friendly restaurant, shared kitchen, car rental service, and terrace area, this place has so much to offer!

At this guesthouse, there are various private rooms to choose from, many of which sleep two people. Some units also offer a private bathroom as well as other amenities such as free WiFi and air conditioning.

Mid-range: ON Thapae Chiangmai

If you don’t mind spending a bit more, check out ON Thapae Chiangmai. There are a variety of rooms to choose from, sleeping between 2-4 people making it a great choice for both couples and small families/groups.

This beautiful hotel offers plenty of amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, terrace area, shared lounge, and garden. You’ll also be in a fantastic location for exploring Chiang Mai.

Luxury: The Inside House

The Inside House is one of the most luxurious hotels in Chiang Mai. If you stay here, you’ll benefit from various facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, in-house restaurant, and bar.

The Waterfall Pool Suites offer a luxurious getaway, as you’ll get to enjoy a private pool, an intimate tropical garden, and an outdoor bath and shower. The Doi Suthep Pool Suite is another fantastic option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chiang Mai

How many days do I need in Chiang Mai?

We’d recommend spending 3-4 days in Chiang Mai. This will give you enough time to see the highlights, such as Wat Chedi Luang, Grand Canyon Water Park, and the city’s night bazaar.

Those who have an additional day or two can head out of Chiang Mai to explore the surrounding scenery. Just make sure you take some time to relax, as this city is known for its fantastic restaurants, spas, and nightlife.

What is a good budget for Chiang Mai?

We’d recommend a budget of at least £30-£40 per person per day. This will be enough for affordable accommodation, local cuisine (especially street food), and attractions, as well as a public journey or two.

Chiang Mai is a popular destination with backpackers as everything is so inexpensive. Of course, if you have more cash to splash, there are some fantastic luxury hotels in Chiang Mai, too!

What is Chiang Mai best known for?

Chiang Mai is famous for its festivals (particularly the Yee Peng Festival), historical temples, and laid-back vibe. Thanks to the city’s location in Northern Thailand, the climate is much more pleasant here too.

Chiang Mai is a true backpacker hub and is a popular spot for digital nomads. There’s also a range of attractions and activities on offer, so there really is something for everyone. This makes it a must for any Thailand itinerary!

What are must-do’s in Chiang Mai?

There are so many incredible things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Some of the must-visit attractions include Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Phra That Doi Kham.

Visiting Chiang Mai during the annual Yi Peng Lantern Festival is also a must. The Yi Peng Festival is one of Thailand’s most magical festivals, where floating lanterns are released into the air.

Where To Go After Chiang Mai

Those exploring Northern Thailand should pay a visit to Pai after staying in Chiang Mai. This charming mountain town offers the perfect relaxing escape, where you can enjoy the local cuisine and take in the nearby attractions.

There’s also Chiang Rai which is around a 3-hour drive from Chiang Mai. Also located in Northern Thailand, this city is found near the borders of Laos and Myanmar. Chiang Rai has plenty of history and is full of cultural attractions, including beautiful temples (Wat Rong Khun and Wat Rong Suea Ten are two of the most popular).

If you’ve explored Northern Thailand first, then it’s time to head south. Kanchanaburi is a must-visit for those who are interested in history and culture, and overnight buses are available from Chiang Mai.

Alternatively, you can take an overnight bus to the capital city of Bangkok, which is a must for any Thailand itinerary!

Final Thoughts On Things To Do In Chiang Mai, Thailand

Hopefully, this guide has given you a good idea of what to do in Chiang Mai. There are so many amazing things to see in this city, ranging from temples to lively night markets so there’s something for every traveler.

Thanks to the city’s location, you can head out on various day trips, too. As there’s so much to do, allow at least 3 days in Chiang Mai so you’re not rushing your time here.

If you have any questions about fun things to do in Chiang Mai, please contact us via Facebook, Instagram, or in the comments!

Here are some other Southeast Asia guides that you may find helpful:

• Spending 4 Days In Kuala Lumpur
• The Ultimate Malaysia Itinerary
• How To Spend 3 Weeks In Vietnam

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