Activities in Chiang Mai

One of northern Thailand's most sacred sites, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep sits 1,073m above the city on the forested hillside of Doi Suthep mountain. The golden chedi, panoramic views over Chiang Mai, and the 306-step naga staircase make this an unmissable visit.

Chiang Mai's historic walled Old City is home to over 30 temples, many dating back 700 years to the Lanna Kingdom. Highlights include Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and the lesser-known Wat Phan Tao — stunning examples of northern Thai architecture all within easy walking distance of each other.

Chiang Mai is home to several world-renowned ethical elephant sanctuaries, offering the chance to feed, bathe, and walk alongside rescued elephants in their natural environment — without riding. Elephant Nature Park in Mae Taeng and Patara Elephant Farm are among the most respected. A full-day experience not to be missed.

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand', Doi Inthanon is the country's highest peak at 2,565m. The national park is a spectacular day trip offering twin royal chedis with manicured gardens, misty cloud forests, and the beautiful Wachirathan and Mae Ya waterfalls. A popular cooler-weather escape from the city.

The Chiang Mai region is rich in waterfalls accessible year-round. Huay Kaew Waterfall sits at the base of Doi Suthep just minutes from the city, while the dramatic Sticky Waterfall (Bua Tong) in Chiang Dao lets you walk up its calcified limestone surface. Further south in Doi Inthanon, Mae Ya is considered one of Thailand's most beautiful cascades.

Chiang Dao is a dramatically beautiful area dominated by Thailand's third highest peak. The ancient cave temple complex stretches deep into the limestone karst, while the surrounding valley offers superb birdwatching, jungle trekking, and a glimpse of life in a quieter, more traditional Thailand. A rewarding half-day or full-day trip.

Originally created for the 2006 Royal Flora Expo, Royal Park Rajapruek is a beautifully maintained botanical garden and royal pavilion complex just south of the city. It is particularly spectacular during the cool season when colourful flower displays are in bloom. An easy, unhurried half-day outing.

Chiang Rai is the jewel of a classic northern Thailand day trip. The extraordinary White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), with its all-white mirrored façade, is unlike anything else in the country. Combine it with the mystical Blue Temple, the eccentric Black House museum, and a stop at the Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.

The winding mountain road from Chiang Mai to Pai — 762 curves through spectacular highland scenery — is itself an adventure. The laid-back town of Pai is beloved for its waterfalls, hot springs, canyon views, night market, and bohemian café scene. Best done as an overnight stay to make the most of the journey.

Chiang Mai's markets are legendary. The Sunday Walking Street on Ratchadamnoen Road fills the Old City with local art, handicrafts, street food, and live music. The Saturday Night Market on Wualai Road is equally atmospheric. The permanent Night Bazaar on Chang Klan Road runs every evening with hundreds of stalls and restaurants.

Just east of the city, the village of Bo Sang has been producing hand-painted paper umbrellas for centuries and is the centre of traditional northern Thai handicrafts. Watch artisans at work in family-run workshops, browse lacquerware, silverware, silk, and celadon ceramics, and pick up something truly made in Chiang Mai.

Set at the foot of Doi Suthep mountain, Chiang Mai Zoo is home to pandas, giraffes, penguins, and hundreds of other species across a large landscaped site. The adjacent Night Safari is Southeast Asia's first, offering tram and walking trails through illuminated enclosures after dark — a memorable experience for families.