Things to do in Chiang Mai

Wat Phan Tao is a beautiful wooden temple in Chiang Mai’s Old City. Visiting Chiang Mai is one of the best things to see and do in Chinag Mai. It is made from teak wood and has a peaceful garden with a pond. The temple is known for its traditional Lanna-style design and is a great place to relax and take photos.

Also read: Dragon Temple

Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most famous temples in Chiang Mai. It is one of the best things to do in Chinag Mai nad has a giant, ancient pagoda that was partly damaged in an earthquake. This temple is also home to important Buddhist ceremonies and has a calm, spiritual atmosphere.

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Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. It has beautiful carvings and two small, important Buddha statues. The temple’s peaceful setting and interesting history make it a must-visit spot in the Old City.

This temple is less crowded and has a unique mix of modern and traditional designs. It features detailed artwork and is a great place to learn about Thai culture and enjoy some quiet time.

Wat Lok Molee is a historic temple with a beautiful brick pagoda. It is located just outside the Old City walls and has a peaceful garden area. The temple is known for its stunning lantern displays during festivals.

Also called the “Silver Temple,” Wat Sri Suphan is entirely covered in silver decorations. It has intricate carvings and is a unique sight. Note that only men can enter the main hall, but the outside is worth visiting too.

These temples are smaller but have charming details and peaceful spaces. Wat Buppharam has a golden pagoda, while Wat Mahawan features beautiful statues and architecture. Both are great spots to explore outside the Old City.

Wat Doi Suthep is one of the most famous temples in Thailand. Located on a mountain, it offers amazing views of Chiang Mai, also considered on one of the popular things to do in Chinag Mai. The golden pagoda and detailed decorations make it a must-visit spot for anyone in the area.

Wat Pha Lat is a hidden gem located in the forest. It’s a quiet, peaceful temple with beautiful views and natural surroundings. The temple is perfect for those looking for a calm and spiritual experience.

Wat Umong is a unique temple with underground tunnels and a peaceful garden. It’s surrounded by trees and has a pond where you can feed fish and turtles. This temple is great for meditation and exploring.

This temple, also called the “Golden Temple,” has a huge Buddha statue and offers stunning views of Chiang Mai. It’s a popular spot to pray for good luck and take in the beauty of the area.

Wat Suan Dok is a temple with white pagodas and a golden stupa. It’s known as a center for Buddhist learning, and you can even join a meditation class here. The temple is peaceful and full of history.

The Grand Canyon in Chiang Mai is an exciting and scenic place to visit. It's a deep water hole formed from an old quarry. You can swim, kayak, or just relax while enjoying the breathtaking views. It’s a fun outdoor adventure and exploring it is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai. 

Bua Thong, also known as the Sticky Waterfall, is a cool and unique waterfall. The rocks are sticky, so you can climb up them without slipping. It’s a great way to have fun and cool off. Surrounded by nature, it's a perfect place to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

The Monk’s Trail is a hike that leads you up to Wat Doi Suthep. It’s called this because monks used to walk this path. It can be tough but the views are amazing. If you like hiking and nature, this trail is a perfect way to see Chiang Mai from above.

Monk Chat is an activity where you get to meet monks and ask them questions about their life and religion. It’s a great way to learn about Buddhism and Thai culture in a relaxed and friendly setting. You can discover new things and have fun talking with the monks.

In Chiang Mai, there are elephant sanctuaries where you can interact with elephants kindly. You can feed them, bathe them, and even walk alongside them. These sanctuaries help elephants in need, and it’s a wonderful experience to be close to these amazing animals.

In Chiang Mai, you can take a cooking class to learn how to make delicious Thai food. You’ll visit local markets, pick fresh ingredients, and cook dishes with expert chefs. It’s a fun way to learn about Thai food and take home new skills to try cooking for your family.

Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand, located in a beautiful national park. The park has cool weather, stunning waterfalls, and lots of nature trails. It’s perfect for hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. It’s a great place to spend a day outdoors.

Begin your weekend with a visit to The Coconut Market in Chiang Mai, a lively and colorful spot filled with local treats. You’ll find fresh coconuts, tropical fruits, and unique handmade crafts created by local artisans. As you walk through the market, the smell of delicious Thai snacks fills the air.

Try some refreshing coconut water, crispy banana chips, or sweet mango sticky rice. It’s a great place to explore, buy souvenirs, and experience the true flavors of Thailand. If you love shopping and food, this market is a must-visit and one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai.

For a truly unique experience, try a prisoner massage in Chiang Mai. This isn’t like your usual spa massage – it’s done by inmates who have been trained in the traditional art of Thai massage. These women are learning new skills to help them find work after their release.

The massages are professional and deeply relaxing, using ancient techniques that help with body pain and stress. You’ll leave feeling refreshed while also supporting a great cause. It’s a special way to experience Thai culture, get some well-deserved relaxation, and help people build a better future.

If you love to stay active, head to Angkaew Reservoir, a beautiful and peaceful spot in Chiang Mai. This large water reservoir is surrounded by green trees, fresh air, and scenic walking paths. It’s a perfect place for jogging, cycling, or just taking a relaxing walk. The calm water reflects the sky, making it a fantastic spot to enjoy nature.

In the early morning or evening, you’ll see many locals jogging or stretching by the lake. Whether you want to exercise or simply enjoy the fresh air, Angkaew Reservoir is a great place to start your day.

The Chiang Mai University Night Market is a fun and lively place to explore in the evening. It’s full of small shops and stalls selling everything from trendy clothes and handmade accessories to delicious street food. If you love shopping, you’ll find great deals on unique items, and if you’re hungry, there are many tasty snacks to try.

Enjoy crispy fried chicken, fruit smoothies, or spicy Thai noodles. The market has a friendly, youthful vibe since it’s near the university, making it a great spot to hang out with friends, shop for cool finds, and enjoy the local atmosphere.

If you love art and creativity, visit Baan Kang Wat, a charming little arts village in Chiang Mai. This place is filled with cute shops selling handmade pottery, paintings, and jewelry made by local artists. You can explore cozy cafés, enjoy fresh coffee, or even join an art workshop to create something special.

The village has a peaceful and relaxing vibe, making it a perfect escape from the busy city. It’s a great place to walk around, take beautiful pictures, and find unique souvenirs. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a quiet, inspiring place, Baan Kang Wat is worth a visit.

Chinatown in Chiang Mai is a lively and exciting place full of colors, sounds, and delicious smells. As you walk through the busy streets, you’ll see small shops selling everything from colorful lanterns to traditional Chinese herbs. The real highlight is the street food – try dim sum, roasted duck, or fresh fruit juices.

Chinatown is also a great place for shopping, where you can find souvenirs, clothes, and unique trinkets. The streets are always buzzing with energy, making it a great place to soak in the local culture, enjoy tasty food, and experience the heart of Chiang Mai’s Chinatown.

When in Chiang Mai, don’t miss out on Khao Soi, a delicious Northern Thai noodle dish with a rich, creamy curry broth. One of the best places to try a vegetarian version is Aum Vegetarian, a cozy little restaurant known for its tasty and healthy dishes. The Khao Soi here is made with crispy and soft noodles, flavorful spices, and fresh coconut milk.

It’s perfect for anyone who loves a warm, comforting meal. Whether you’re vegetarian or just love good food, this is a must-try dish that will make your taste buds dance with happiness!

Take a relaxing walk along Mae Kha Canal is one of the romantic things to do in Chinag Mai, a peaceful waterway in Chiang Mai. This canal has been restored to bring back its natural beauty, with clean water and green surroundings. As you stroll along, you’ll see small boats, beautiful flowers, and little bridges that make the area look charming.

It’s a great place to enjoy some quiet time, away from the busy streets of the city. If you love photography, you’ll find plenty of lovely spots to capture. Walking along the canal is a simple but wonderful way to see a different, more peaceful side of Chiang Mai.

For a relaxing day in nature, visit Huay Tueng Tao Lake, a beautiful lake just outside Chiang Mai. The lake is surrounded by mountains and has small bamboo huts where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the view. You can also rent a bike and explore the area, go for a swim, or even try fishing.

Many local restaurants serve delicious Thai food right by the water. It’s a perfect place to spend a peaceful afternoon, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the fresh air. If you love nature, this hidden gem is a great spot to visit.

Cycling is one of the top things things to do in Chinag Mai and a fantastic way to explore Chiang Mai, whether in the city or the countryside. You can ride through scenic roads, passing by temples, rice fields, and small villages. There are also guided bike tours that take you to local markets, ancient ruins, and hidden spots you wouldn’t normally find. Biking is not only fun but also a great way to see more of the area while staying active.

Whether you prefer a short city ride or an adventurous countryside trip, Chiang Mai offers wonderful biking experiences that make exploring the city even more enjoyable.