trip guru chiang mai

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Getting Around Chiang Mai

Airport Guide

Neighborhoods in Chiang Mai

48-Hour Itinerary

Top Things to Do

Best Museums

Where to Go Shopping

Best National Parks

Foods to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Chiang Mai: The Complete Guide

The capital of an expansive, independent Lanna Kingdom that maintained a separate identity till the 19th century, Chiang Mai retains a unique culture that is both a part of Thailand and yet separate from it. As the urban center for Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai goes beyond its roots as a Lanna heartland to become a destination for digital nomads, an example for world ecotourism, source of high-quality handicrafts, even a noted foodie stop for world-hopping gourmands!

For first-time visitors, Chiang Mai can be hard to make sense of at first glance: before planning your trip, read the information we’ve provided below.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Between November and February, Chiang Mai experiences the lowest overall temperatures and humidity for the year, making this period the best time to visit . This time of year also coincides with festivals like Loi Krathong and the Chiang Mai Flower Festival.
• Language: The majority of people speak Thai, with older and rural folk speaking Lanna (the Northern Thai language) as a first language. Local English proficiency is all right for workers in the city’s service industries, but don’t expect to be understood the further you venture out to the countryside.
• Currency: The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB), with its value hovering around 33 baht to the U.S. dollar. You can convert money at one of Thailand's many banks.
• Getting Around: The best way to go places in Chiang Mai is by riding the songthaew, the cheapest way to travel in the city. Red songthaew (rod daeng, Thai for “red car”), are the most common type, running throughout the city; other colors can go as far as neighboring provinces.
• Travel Tip: Chiang Mai is an excellent jump-off point for exploring the rest of Northern Thailand, with easy transport access to Mae Hong Son, Chiang Rai, and Pai . The city of Chiang Rai , for instance, is just a three-hour bus ride away.

Things to Do

The Chiang Mai experience begins at the Old City and radiates out to the countryside into your choice of adventures. From buying Thai handicrafts to climbing waterfalls to browsing through night markets, Chiang Mai offers different travel experiences to suit a wide variety of tastes.

Consider the following experiences when you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai.

• Walk inside the Old City: This 370-acre walled district houses the oldest part of civilized Chiang Mai, along with many of its finest temples, restaurants, and attractions. Set your own itinerary on foot, and you’ll discover many of the Old City’s hidden gems.
• Buy Northern Thai handicrafts: Many Thai handicrafts sold in Bangkok and abroad originate from the handicraft specialty villages outside Chiang Mai city. Cut out the middleman and visit villages like Bor Sang (for mulberry-paper umbrellas) and Ban Tawai (for hand-carved wooden crafts) to buy Thai artisanal crafts straight from the source.
• Experience an ethical animal encounter: The wilds around Chiang Mai also host a number of ethical elephant sanctuaries that permit care activities like feeding or bathing the animals, but no riding or abuse of the pachyderms in their care.
• Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Chiang Mai’s most sacred temple is set on a mountain slope some 10 miles from the city center, at an altitude of 3,500 feet above sea level. Despite the distance, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep remains a singular must-visit temple: take in the culture, the crisp mountain air, and the gorgeous views of the city from above.
• Shop at Chiang Mai’s night markets: The O.G. Night Bazaar is still going strong, but it’s getting some serious competition from the weekend night markets in the Old City. These night markets have everything—cheap souvenirs, jewelry, home furnishings, and as much Thai street food as you can eat!

Explore more things to do in Chiang Mai with our full-length articles on the top things to do in Chiang Mai , top shopping stops in Chiang Mai , Chiang Mai’s nature parks , and the top temples to visit in Chiang Mai .

What to Eat and Drink

The former capital of the independent Lanna Kingdom is the best place to try Northern Thai food—a regional cuisine with close links to Lao , Burmese, and Yunnanese Chinese food traditions.

Don’t be fooled by the foreign influence, Chiang Mai’s cooks have perfected the use of local ingredients to create something completely unique to the province, and is completely tied to the Chiang Mai tourist experience today.

You can’t say you’ve visited Chiang Mai until you’ve had khao soi (flat egg noodles in a coconut-based curry), sai oua (Lanna sausages) and som tam (papaya salad); in fact, these dishes have become iconic all-Thai dishes in their own right!

Explore our full-length articles on the foods to try in Chiang Mai and the best restaurants in Chiang Mai to try them.

Where to Stay

As one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations, Chiang Mai offers tourist accommodations for every budget, from backpacker-friendly hostels to five-star resorts.

Look through Chiang Mai’s individual neighborhoods for a hotel, hostel, or resort that fits your needs: budget guesthouses and boutique hotels in the Old City; mid-to-high-end boutique hotels in Wat Ket; and luxury, mid-range, and economy hotels around the Night Bazaar, among others.

Beyond city limits, you’ll find a cool assortment of mountain resorts promising eco-friendly stays with nature encounters as part of the mix. The Anantara Golden Triangle, for instance, sells overnight stays in their Jungle Bubbles , where you can sleep in transparent hemispheres next to roving bands of elephants!

Getting There

Most international visitors fly in to Chiang Mai via Chiang Mai International Airport , located only 3 miles from the Old City. From Chiang Mai, you can take buses, trains, or domestic flights to other parts of the country, including Pai, Mae Hong Son, and Chiang Rai.

Citizens of over 60 countries (including the U.S.) can visit Thailand (and Chiang Mai) without a visa for up to 30 days. Check with the Ministry of Tourism for any rules changes before planning your trip.

Culture and Customs

Cover up in Buddhist temples: Thailand’s Buddhist temples, as a rule, require modest clothing from its visitors; any skimpy clothing signals disrespect for the monks. Cover your shoulders and legs when visiting active Buddhist temples , whether you’re in the Old City or visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

Tipping is not necessary: As a rule, service personnel do not expect tips from their guests. If you do feel authentic satisfaction with their service, tips will not be discouraged.

Don’t lose your temper: Showing strong emotions is a big no-no in Thailand. The locals prize saving face above all , so they smile and stay cool even when they have every reason to blow their top.

Read these articles about tipping in Asia , Thai temple etiquette ; dos and don’t’s to observe in Thailand , and table manners in Thailand .

Money-Saving Tips

Stay at a hostel: Thai hostels and budget hotels are great deals for scrimping travelers; chosen well, your hostel will have just the right amount of comfort, with walking-distance access to local tourist sights. Many budget hotels in the Old City fit this description—for not a lot of dollars per night, you can sleep well and explore the Old City’s sights from your doorstep.

Learn to ride the songthaew: Red songthaew run all around the city, costing as little as 30 baht (around $0.90) per ride. They don’t follow set routes but will take a general direction where they’ll pick up and drop off passengers on demand.

Look for free stuff to do: In several Old City temples, for instance, you can sign up for “monk chats” where you can ask questions about the local religion and culture; and the monks get English-language practice. Win-win!

Eat local: Go where the Thais go to eat in Chiang Mai, generally, food courts or eateries where they serve only local food. You’ll be fed delicious Northern Thai food at a fraction of the cost of a comparable meal at a touristy restaurant.

Buy a local SIM card for phone and mobile internet use: Using Chiang Mai’s cellular and 4G network is just a matter of buying a local SIM card and slapping it into a compatible handset. You can choose from a variety of cellular providers in Chiang Mai—the top three brands (AIS, DTAC, and True Move) can be found at almost every convenience store around the city.

For more details on saving costs in Chiang Mai, read our articles on how much money you’ll need for a trip to Thailand and what $100 buys in Southeast Asia .

Encyclopedia Britannica. " Chiang Mai ."

Tourism Authority of Thailand. " Language & Culture ." Jan. 9, 2020.

Tourism Authority of Thailand. " Thailand Currency ."

• Royal Thai Consulate - General. " List of Countries – Allowed 30-Day Stay Without a Visa ( For Tourism Only) – Passport MUST be valid for at least six more months ."

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3 perfect days in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is my favorite city in Thailand, bar none. I love exploring the buzzy restaurants and shops along Nimmanhaeminda Road, then ducking down a winding side street for some peace and quiet. The weather is fantastic, especially in the cool season between December and February. And the locals are incredibly laid-back—except during Songkran, the Thai New Year celebration, when they are busy dousing each other with water. (They take these water fights very seriously.)

This three-day itinerary takes you to both the main highlights and some hidden gems and is designed to help you navigate the city as easily as possible. And to help you make the most of your time, we’ve incorporated Tripadvisor reviews and ratings. That way, you can be sure to visit the places that other travelers have loved, too.

MORNING: Ramble through history in the Old Town

There’s no better way to get acquainted with Chiang Mai than by navigating the streets of the historic Old Town, a very walkable (or bikeable) half square mile. At the very heart of the area is the famous Three Kings Monument , commemorating the architects of the Lanna Dynasty (1664-1774). For even more about the history of Chiang Mai, check out the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre , located behind the monument.

Even better, get in touch with history by visiting the ancient Chiang Mai Gate , where the crumbling brick walls once protected the city from foreign invaders. Then stop by a temple. This city has more than 300 of them, and the oldest is called Wat Chiang Man —it dates back to 1296.

AFTERNOON: A bowl of noodles and a mountaintop temple

All that walking means you’ve definitely earned your lunch break, so head to the local institution called Khaosoi Lamduan Faham . The specialty of the house is khao soi, the curried noodle soup that’s the most popular dish in Northern Thailand. (The restaurant claims to have invented khao soi, and I’m not going to argue that point.) The broth here is lighter than at many of its rivals, with just a flick of coconut milk added right before it reaches your table. There are many options here, including those that will satisfy vegetarians.

After lunch, take a ride on a songthaew (the open-ended red buses you’ll find all over the city) to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep . The city’s most famous temple complex is set high on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai. Besides its panoramic views over the valley below, Doi Suthep has a battery of bells that you can ring for good luck. Ride the funicular up to the top of the temple and walk down the famous staircase, which has Chinese-style dragons on both sides. At the bottom, you’ll find souvenir stands and snack stalls waiting for you.

Travelers say: “Wat Doi Suthep is a must-visit destination in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This stunning temple is located on the top of Doi Suthep mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.” —@jwhartmann

EVENING: Shop at the city’s most raucous night market

If it’s Saturday, you’ll want to explore the night market on Walking Street , where more than 100 vendors set up shop. The best things to pick up here are fishermen’s pants, handmade bags, and artisanal soaps. Afterwards, stop for a bite and well-earned mug of beer at the nearby Faces Gallery and Gastro Bar , where the air-conditioned dining room looks out onto a gorgeous garden.

If it’s any other day of the week, head to one of the many restaurants that line the Ping River. I love the aptly-named Riverside Bar and Restaurant , a favorite since 1984. One of the don’t-miss dishes is tom yam khong (fish soup with shrimp). You can even reserve an evening boat ride and enjoy your meal while floating past some of the city’s main sights.

CHIANG MAI OLD TOWN AND DOI SUTHEP TOUR OPTIONS

• If cycling through Chiang Mai’s Old Town sounds up your alley, sign up for the Historic Old City Bicycle Tour . A knowledgeable guide will lead you to the city’s most interesting temples, markets, and monuments.
• You’ll sample more than a dozen different dishes during the extremely popular Chiang Mai Food Tour . You’ll also walk around the Old Town, making sure you burn off a few of those calories.
• To take in some of the region’s natural beauty, consider setting out on the Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat Hike . This two-hour trek takes you through the forest to Wat Pha Lat before heading to Doi Suthep for stunning views over the city.

Worthy detours along the way

MORNING: Sunrise in Thailand’s prettiest park

A little less than two hours from the center of Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon National Park is Thailand’s most popular nature preserve. Mountain trails lead past flower-filled gardens, refreshing waterfalls, and indigenous villages. If you’re motivated enough to get here by sunrise, a stunning, rose-hued panorama awaits. If you’re here during the cool season (December to February), bring a jacket.

Travelers say: “Great waterfalls and trails. We especially loved the Wachirathan and Mae Ya waterfalls. The Kew Mae Pan nature trail is a great route through cloud forest and beautiful landscapes.” —@Radek_Rucinski

AFTERNOON: Feeding yourself (as well as the elephants)

If you aren’t up for a picnic in the national park, you can enjoy traditional dishes at the nearby Mae Chaem Gate Restaurant , where a thatched roof covers the open-air dining room. The choicest tables are scattered around the slightly overgrown garden.

At the Doi Inthanon Elephant Sanctuary , local Karen tribe members run an ethical haven where you can feed and bathe obliging pachyderms. You can also accompany them into the forest, an appealing activity for any animal lover.

EVENING: Decompress with a Thai massage

Back in Chiang Mai, Nimmanhaeminda Road is where the city’s hipsters converge, thronging its cafes, boutiques, and spas. Don't miss the hands-on pampering at Nimman House , where you can opt for a Thai-style tune-up that lasts as long as four hours.

One of Chiang Mai’s (and Thailand’s) foremost food pioneers is Chef Phanuphol “Black” Bulsuwan, who leads the team at the award-winning Blackitch Artisan Kitchen . There’s no need to order here, as the set menu—a melange of Asian influences—is where it’s at. Make sure to try the house-made beer and sake. Reserve a table well in advance.

DOI INTHANON TOUR OPTIONS

• For a worry-free guided tour to the mountains around Doi Inthanon, sign up for the full-day Doi Inthanon Private Tour , which includes lunch for you and your group.
• Animal lovers should check out the Doi Inthanon Elephant Sanctuary Tour , where you'll also trek to waterfalls. There are even camping trips available, if you’re game.
• The highly rated Doi Inthanon National Park, Waterfall, and Royal Project Tour takes in a visit to a Hmong market and a Karen tribe village.

MORNING: A day in Lanna’s first capital

A three-hour drive north of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai served as the Lanna Kingdom’s first capital before King Mengrai moved his royal entourage farther from the border to avoid raids by Genghis Khan’s descendants.

Although it's got a reputation as a sleepy little town, Chiang Rai has plenty to see that’s worth your while. Don’t miss the famous White Temple (also known as Wat Rong Khun ), built almost from scratch by local artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. The temple’s main building, accessible via a bridge depicting the “cycle of rebirth,” glitters with mirrored glass. Tripadvisor readers give it high marks.

Travelers say: “Wat Rong Khun has very detailed and beautiful architecture. It is not only pleasing to look at, there are many stories/lessons embedded in the artwork. It's an extraordinary example of creative expression based on religious devotion and well worth the admission price.” —@cornwall15

Afterward, it only makes sense to visit the Black House (or Baan Dum ). Built by hometown hero Tawan Dachanee, the “museum” is actually a series of buildings (including a small house shaped like a whale), designed and decorated with the artist’s own unique style (think antlers and lots of animal skins).

AFTERNOON: Riverside lunch and a tea plantation

One of Chiang Rai’s claims to fame is its tea plantations. Among the most popular is Singha Park , where you can drive golf carts around the grounds and visit a petting zoo. Nearby Boon Rawd Farm is more focused on the farming side of things, but still has stunning views of the greenery.

Although there’s a restaurant at Singha Park, you might prefer the riverside setting of Chivit Tammada , a Thai-European restaurant set in an old mansion. If the temperatures are mild, opt for an outdoor table on the sprawling lawn next to the river. The Burmese-style gang hang lay (pork belly stew) is one of the best dishes here.

EVENING: A final night near Chiang Mai

Among the more attractive communities near Chiang Mai is Mae Rim , about 40 minutes north of the city center. Locals and expats mingle at Terra and the Farmer’s Bar, which blends Northern Thai and Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy a drink at the bar—which was brought over piece by piece from England—or browse in the little shop.

CHIANG RAI TOUR OPTIONS

• In order to pack tons of Chiang Rai sights into one day, choose the Chiang Rai Day Trip , which includes soak in hot springs and a stop at the infamous Golden Triangle, former hub for the opium trade.
• If you want a local to guide you through the streets of Chiang Rai, try the half-day Chiang Rai Bicycle Tour . You have to arrange your own transportation from Chiang Mai, however.
• If you want to hit all of Chiang Rai’s temples, take the Chiang Rai Temple Tour . Door to door from Chiang Mai, it takes a total of 12 hours.

Know Before You Go

The traditional high season, from December to February, is when you'll find cooler weather. However, the haze from nearby farms setting fires to clear the fields can affect the visibility. Try to avoid March, when the haze is at its height. The rainy season, from July to September, with its usually intermittent showers, may be a better bet.

Weekdays are ideal for exploring Chiang Mai's cultural attractions and markets, since there are fewer crowds compared to weekends. Saturdays and Sundays are bustling with activity, especially at the weekend markets. During major festivals like Songkran (Thai New Year) from April 13 to 15, Chiang Mai comes alive with celebrations. While some businesses may close during this time, participating in the iconic water fights that symbolize the festival is a memorable experience. Additionally, other holidays such as Loy Krathong (usually in November) are great to experience, thanks to the vibrant celebrations.

Many restaurants start serving as early as 7 a.m. for breakfast, while lunch service typically begins around midday, and dinner is usually served until around 9 p.m.—though some restaurants may stay open later, especially in popular tourist areas. Shops in Chiang Mai usually open around 10 a.m. and close at 9 p.m., though it can vary depending on the type of shop and its location. Chiang Mai is also famous for its night markets, where visitors can shop for souvenirs, clothing, handicrafts, and enjoy delicious street food until around 10 p.m. or later.

City Center: For those seeking convenience and accessibility, the City Center is an excellent choice. Here, you'll find luxurious hotels like the Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai (with a serene setting and easy access to shopping areas and cultural attractions) and Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort (a secluded hideaway). Both properties are not far from the bustling Night Bazaar.

Old Town: Steeped in history and charm, the Old Town is a favorite among travelers looking to immerse themselves in Chiang Mai's rich cultural heritage. The 137 Pillars House is a boutique retreat in a restored teak wood mansion. The top-ranked Chiang Mai Old Town Hotel sits on one of the city’s quaint alleyways. Small and immaculate, the modern hotel gets extra points from travelers for its solicitous service.

Nimmanhaeminda Road: Known for its trendy cafes, boutiques, and art galleries, Nimmanhaeminda Road is popular among hip and creative travelers. Akyra Manor Chiang Mai epitomizes the area's contemporary flair. The Art Mai Gallery Hotel celebrates the intersection of art and hospitality, making it a perfect choice for people seeking a culturally immersive experience. Banilah is a cozy guesthouse with basic rooms at budget prices.

Public transportation: If you’re willing to suss out the city’s bus routes, public transportation is a cheap and convenient way to get around Chiang Mai.

By bike: Some hotels in the Old Town and on Nimmanhaeminda Road have bicycles free of charge to guests. Motorcycle rentals are also readily available.

By songthaew and tuk-tuk: The red buses (songthaews) are easier to flag down on the road than the city’s yellow-and-blue taxis, and are far cheaper. They aren’t air-conditioned, so long trips might be uncomfortable. The iconic tuk-tuks, which seat three comfortably, can be found in touristy spots and make for memorable explorations.

Airport transfers: Your hotel can arrange transportation to and from the airport. Taxis are also available. Or book the rideshare service, Grab, which is Southeast Asia’s version of Uber.

• Travel Tips

• Accommodations

The Best Places To Stay In Chiang Mai Broken Down By Budget

Good for big spenders and backpackers alike!

Have you been crawling through Agoda Chiang Mai  and TripAdvisor Chiang Mai  but have yet to successfully narrow down your list? Allow us to be of assistance…

When looking for Chiang Mai hotels in the hopes of   booking Chiang Mai accommodation s, first think about what kind of holiday you want. If you’re planning to spend a considerable amount of time relaxing in a beautiful environment and being pampered, it might just be worth investing in a more luxurious home for the holidays. 

However, if you’re going to be out and about for most of the day, you can allocate more moolah to activities and tours and less to infinity pools and lavish villas. The good news? Pickings in Chiang Mai are of excellent quality and good value across the board!

Check out our list of top picks for the best places to stay in Chiang Mai below, categorized according budget:

Luxury Accommodations

Book one of these accommodations if you’re: In the mood for pampering

From Chiang Mai resorts to 5-star properties, these are some of the best hotels in Chiang Mai . Expect nothing short of stellar from these luxurious Chiang Mai, Thailand hotels .

• 137 Pillars House : A heritage house that takes pride in restoring its 19th century origins
• Anantara Chiang Mai Resort : This 100-year-old heritage house is perfect for the riverside serenity you’ve been searching for in the heart of Chiang Mai
• Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai : A verdant sanctuary in the heart of Northern Thailand, with an iconic mountain backdrop
• Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel and Spa : If you’re looking for a spa in Chiang Mai , theirs is one of the best!
• Le Meridien Chiang Mai : This place gives you easy access to the Night Bazaar, the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary , and more.
• Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa : One of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai for traditional Lanna style hospitality and service 
• DusitD2 Chiang Mai : This boutique hotel is right smack in the middle of the city’s bustling night life, making it a prime pick for many guests.
• Rachamankha Hotel : Situated in the heart of the historic Chiang Mai old city, you can easily walk to the famous temples nearby.

Mid-Range Accommodations

Book one of these accommodations if you: Want complete amenities without having to break the bank 

What can you expect from these accommodations? Most of these are 4-star boutique hotels in Chiang Mai , with a wide price range – anywhere from $50-$100, depending on the type of hotel and room you choose. Many of these accommodations are still luxurious, without having the excessive price tag of the former category.

If you don’t have your heart set on ideal or scenic locations and aren’t too bothered about getting treated like royalty, the following are your best bets…

• The Rim Resort Chiang Mai : Located in the old city along the fascinating canal in Chiang Mai, you can see the historical ramparts and moats up close. (P.S. – You can check out this tour to learn more about the history of the area !)
• Chiang Mai Plaza Hotel : A 5-minute drive from the airport, guests can experience the charm of traditional Thai hospitality here.
• Duangtawan Hotel Chiang Mai : With more than 500 rooms, 7 restaurants and bars, a fitness center, spa, pool, and more, this immense place is surely not lacking in amenities.
• Holiday Inn Chiang Mai : Built along the banks of the Ping river, this place makes your comfort and convenience their priority. Plus, they boast some of the biggest rooms in Chiang Mai!
• Vieng Mantra Hotel : Looking for more  Chiang Mai hotels in the old city ? You can find this hotel a literal 2-minute walk away from the Thapae gate!

Budget Accommodations:

Book one of these accommodations if you’re: Content to backpack and save for experiences

Think Chiang Mai apartments , guest houses in Chiang Mai , and hostels in Chiang Mai . They’re clean, decent, and perfect for backpackers and travelers. Some of the best hostels in Chiang Mai made it to our list.

• X2 Vibe Chiang Mai Decem Hotel : A design-oriented, vibey hotel in the up-and-coming Nimman area.
• S*Trips the Poshtel : Nope, not a hostel, but a ‘poshtel’, this place boasts of modern-chic interiors that are clean, comfy, and affordable!
• Thai Thai Hostel : With free snacks, drinks and Wifi, this homey hostel has quite a lot going for it.
• Thailand Wow Hostel : Perfect for backpackers, this property thought of everything from soap and shampoo to bikes and scooters for rent!
• Stay With Me Guesthouse : Clean, comfortable, bright, and airy, this place is in the center of everything.
• Julie Guesthouse : Self-dubbed as an ‘oasis within the city’, you can’t beat its relaxing atmosphere and chill vibe.

Featured image from X2 Chiang Mai Riverside Resort

So what did you think of our list of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai? Are you going to be booking any of them soon? Do you have any suggestions to add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

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Visit Chiang Mai: Top 20 Things To Do And Must See Attractions

The 20 best things to do in chiang mai (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Chiang Mai during your next trip to Thailand ?

Great idea!

In order to help you plan your stay, i have prepared this guide of the 20 best things to do in Chiang Mai and its surroundings. You will find all must-see attractions in and around the city as well as itineraries to visit Chiang Mai in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days or more!

In this guide, you will learn everything about the most beautiful temples, the Night Markets , Doi Suthep National park as well as all the activities to do in Chiang Mai.

Of course, I will also tell you more about the best elephant Sanctuary as well as the places to visit around such as Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son province!

And as usual, I will also give you all my best tips and my list of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai, depending on your budget.

So, What are the best things to do in Chiang Mai? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Chiang Mai Old Town

2. top temples in chiang mai, 3. doi suthep national park, 4. take a thai cooking class, 5. lake huay tung tao, 6. chiang mai markets, 8. where to see elephants in chiang mai, 9. go on a zip-line adventure, 10. other sports activities to do in chiang mai, 11. hikking in chiang mai, 12. chiang mai zoo, 13. chiang mai festivals and celebrations, 14. watch a muay thai fight, 15. enjoy a traditional thai massage, 16. doi inthanon, 17. hot springs, 18. bua thong waterfall, 19. mae hong son province, 20. chiang rai, 8 best things to do in chiang mai with kids, 1 day in chiang mai, 2 days in chiang mai, 3 days in chiang mai, 4, 5 days in chiang mai (or even a week), where to stay in chiang mai, where to eat in chiang mai, how to get around chiang mai, by airplane, thailand tours, traveling to chiang mai: flight prices, tourist map of chiang mai, you’re traveling to thailand these articles will help you, visit chiang mai: the 20 must-see attractions.

If you want to discover the majority of Chiang Mai’s attractions and tourist sites, you should go to the old town .

There, you will find most of the main temples (more details below), street markets and museums. There are also several bars and restaurants as well as agencies to book activities or day trips!

Bordered by moats and ancient ramparts, you can enter the town through four main gates located at each of the four cardinal directions. Inside the old town, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll and admire the traditional buildings.

As I told you in the introduction, The temples are for sure among of the best places to visit in Chiang Mai.

You will find them almost everywhere in the old town. Most of them are free, and others are charging a very small entrance fee. It would be a shame to miss them!

Here are the my favorites temples in Chiang Mai:

• Wat Phra Sing, one of the most famous and most revered by Thais. Thousands come every year to worship the Buddha Phra Sing statue. Entrance is free.
• Wat Chedi Luang (40 Bahts) once housed the famous emerald Buddha that you can see today in Bangkok ’s Grand Palace. Even though it was partially damaged by an earthquake, the temple is still an impressive sight.
• Wat Inthakhin Saduemang, a small teak temple not far from the three kings monument. Right next to it, you should visit the free Temple Museum.
• Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple, built by the founder of the city in the 13th century. It houses two statues of Buddha, one in marble and one in crystal.
• Wat Saen Fang, is very pretty, ancient and unique at the same time. I really liked the two statues of guardian snakes.
• Wat Bupparam (20 Bahts), one of my favorites in Chiang Mai!
• Wat Mahawan, a temple merging the Lanna and Birman styles, with several sculptures of different creatures
• Wat Si Suphan, also called “the Silver Temple”, as it is was mostly built with silver, symbolizing purity

When visiting temples , whether in Chiang Mai or anywhere else during your trip to Thailand , you must have your shoulders and legs covered.

During your stay in Chiang Mai, you should definitely visit Doi Suthep National Park, located just outside the city.

A road allows you to easily go from one attraction to the other and visit the park in a day .

The most visited site is in the park is for sure the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep , a temple built on the top of a hill. From there, you can enjoy a 360° view of Chiang Mai and its surroundings.

To get there, you have to climb around 300 steps or take an elevator (for an extra fee).

The stairs aren’t very steep, so if you’re healthy, you won’t have any problem to get up there. You may just sweat a bit as the climate is quite hot, but that’s what you expect when traveling in Thailand!

The entrance fee for the temple is 30 Bahts.

You will also find many souvenir shops and restaurants at the bottom of the temple.

Here are the other places to visit in Doi Suthep National Park:

• Bhubing Palace (50 Bahts): the winter residence of the Thai royal family when they come to the north of the country. Only the gardens (well maintained and flowered) are open to visitors. Don’t miss the rose gardens and giant bamboo plants! Pay attention to the opening and closing hours: generally, the palace closes at 15:30. Also, plan on wearing long pants to be allowed into the gardens (without holes and not too tight!). The dress code is taken very seriously.
• Hmong Doi Pui Village features a small waterfall and a pleasant garden (entrance fee is 10 Bahts). In the village itself, you’ll find almost only souvenir shops.
• Mon Tha Than Waterfall (100 Bahts + 30 Bahts for one car): To go to the waterfalls, you will need to drive 3 km on a narrow road + a five-minute walk from the parking lot to the first waterfall. Then you can also take a trail to the left to see a 2nd waterfall. You can then continue on the trail to reach a 3rd Waterfall (Sai Yoi Waterfall), but it was closed when I visited.
• Huay Kaew Waterfall: when coming from Chiang Mai, it’s the first stop in the park. Park your car in the parking lot and walk for 5 minutes to reach the waterfall.

The best way to discover the park is to rent a car or scooter in Chiang Mai .

If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can also take one of the red collective taxis (called “Songthaew” or “sorng-taa-ou” in Thailand) that will take you from place to place in the park.

Finally, if you don’t want to worry about organizing the excursion yourself you should book a half-day tour departing from Chiang Mai.

It includes pick-up at your hotel, transport by minibus (only 10 seats), a guide and the entrance  fees for the temple and Hmong village.

This is the best way to visit the Doi Suthep National Park if you’re not spending a lot of time in Chiang Mai or if you don’t have a car!

You can book your tour by clicking the button below:

Here is a great activity to do in Chiang Mai if you want to discover Thai gastronomy: take a cooking class!

In recent years, the city has become the leading destination in the north of the country to learn how to cook . Thus, many travelers try this experience during their road trip in Thailand .

Several cooking schools can teach you how to make delicious curries, tasty Pad Thai and Khao Soy , a northern specialty: curry soup with fried noodles and chicken.

Classes usually last half a day. You will first visit the market to discover the different spices, herbs and vegetables used in traditional dishes. You will then go back to the school to cook the ingredients and at the end of the day, you will of course taste your creations!

You will even receive a free recipe book to impress your friends when you will get back from your holidays.

If you want to take a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai, it’s very simple, just book your activity by clicking on the link below:

You want to get out of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet near Chiang Mai?

Then you should go to Lake Huay Tung Tao, located about 15 minutes from the city center by car. This is where Thai people meet on weekends to spend time with their family by the water.

There are many small wooden huts installed on the banks of the lake where you can eat fresh fish and spend a relaxing afternoon.

You can also rent a pedal boat or swim in one of the dedicated areas. A lot of people are fishing there too!

The lake is really big and you can go around it by car, scooter or bicycle.

Don’t miss the area with giant gorillas, elephants, lions or buffaloes made out of straw. It’s the perfect place to take fun pictures!

The entrance fee to the lake is 50 Bahts per person , to be paid at the small hut before you enter.

You’re going to Chiang Mai?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in touristic cities like Chiang Mai 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Tens of thousands of people will be visiting Chiang Mai on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Chiang Mai.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Chiang Mai, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Chiang Mai!

A visit to Chiang Mai should also include a stroll through the city’s many markets.

Whether you want to buy souvenirs or stock up on fruits and spices, you are sure to find what you are looking for.

During the day, you should wander through the alleys of Talat Warorot market, the largest of the city. It has everything, from food stalls to clothing. Located east of the old town and next to Chinatown, this market is very popular among locals.

You can also visit the nearby flower market on the river bank . Florists make beautiful arrangements for offerings and flower garlands to hang in cars (they are very popular in Thailand!)

In the evening, head to the Night Bazaar (night market), which opens daily from 6 pm . It’s located on Chang Klan Road.

There, you will find handmade goods made by indigenous mountain tribes. However, as it’s super touristy, the prices are higher than at the other markets. It’s also a great place to enjoy delicious dishes at one of the many street-food stalls.

On weekends, don’t forget to go to the Saturday or Sunday Night Market. There is a huge selection of handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, figurines and the prices are reasonable (cheaper than at the weekend market of Chatuchak in Bangkok for example).

In Chiang Mai, you can also enjoy a bit of cultural tourism by visiting one of the local museums.

Here’s the list of the main museums of the city:

• The National Museum of Chiang Mai, to learn everything about the history of the Lanna kingdom.
• Lanna Folk Art Museum, to educate yourself on this unique culture of Northern Thailand.
• Chiang Mai Cultural and Artistic Center, to learn about the history of Chiang Mai.
• Art in Paradise museum, a place where you can take pictures with 3D optical illusions in the background. This is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Chiang Mai. It’s very realistic and fun! Purchase your tickets here!
• Chiang Mai History Center
• Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders, and its collection of hundreds of insects
• The Treasury Pavilion

During your stay, you can also spend a day in an elephant sanctuary near Chiang Mai.

Elephant sanctuaries take in abused or abandoned elephants to take care of them.

You will have the opportunity to help the staff feed and bathe the elephants in the river. No back riding here! Most of these shelters now observe certain ethical standards and try to recreate a natural environment as much as possible.

One of the most famous sanctuaries is the Elephant Nature Park . It was one of the first parks ever created to protect elephants.

Several agencies offer half-day or full day packages from Chiang Mai to visit a sanctuary and take care of the animals . They are all similar, only the location of the sanctuary is different depending on the agency.

Prices start around 1800 Bahts for half a day and can reach 2500 Bahts for a full day .

You can book your day trip at the best elephant sanctuary by clicking on the link below.

If you want to combine nature and adventure, ridding a zip line in Chiang Mai is an excellent idea.

And if you are visiting Chiang Mai with your family , it will allow your children to enjoy something else than temples or cities visits!

I recommend the Flight of the Gibbon park , located about an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai.

It meets all the safety requirements (which isn’t always the case with these kinds of activities in Thailand), the guides are super nice and the zip-line runs through the jungle. You may even be lucky enough to see some gibbons!

If you don’t have a car, day trips are organized from Chiang Mai. The package includes transportation to and from your hotel, 3 hours spent in the park , lunch and a walk in the forest to see a waterfall. It’s really a fun thing to do!

Just click on the link below to book:

If you are done visiting the main sights in the city and don’t know what to do in Chiang Mai , you can try one of the many available sports activities.

You can choose between:

• Mountain biking in Doi Suthep National Park: 3 trails are available. The price starts at 1,650 Bahts for 4 hours of cycling.
• Climbing on the limestone cliffs of the Crazy Horse Buttress.
• Rafting: A descent of about 10 km will cost 3,000 Bahts per person.
• Driving an ATV in the Thai countryside. Starting at 2,200 Bahts for 3 hours.
• Kayaking on the Mae Ping river. Starting at 1,750 Bahts for 4 hours.
• Buggy in the jungle: 1 hour for 2,000 Bahts per person.

Most agencies also offer a combination of activities in the same day , such as driving an ATV and rafting or cycling and kayaking. These tours start at 3,000 Bahts, which can be cheaper than doing 2 separate activities.

In Thailand, never book activities with a random agency. Ask around to make sure it’s reliable and if all safety precautions are taken during the activities. Every year, there are many accidents in Thailand caused by the lack of observance of safety standards.

To be sure to choose a safe agency, you should book your activities in advance . It isn’t more expensive and you will be sure to use a reliable agency. Click on the link below to view all the activities in Chiang Mai:

Chiang Mai is also a popular destination to go hiking in the wilderness.

You can go on a day hike or a multiple-day adventure in the jungle of Northern Thailand. The best areas to hike around Chiang Mai are Chiang Dao, Mae Tang, Mae Wang or Doi Inthanon.

Hikes organized by agencies usually include an overnight stay with a mountain tribe, such as the Karen, Akha or Lahu, and a trip down the river in a bamboo raft. Many also offer a visit to an elephant camp (refuse those who offer a ride on their backs).

Prices for a 2-day tour begin at 3,500 Bahts per person.

The best time to go on a hike during your visit to Northern Thailand is from November to February.

If you’re interested in learning more about Thailand’s animals, you can visit Chiang Mai Zoo, the largest in the country.

It’s located at the foot of Doi Suthep , at the exit of the city.

You will be able to observe more than a hundred species (crocodiles, monkeys, hippopotamuses…) spread over 80 hectares . For those who don’t want to walk, a shuttle bus allows you to explore the zoo without getting tired.

And if you are traveling to Chiang Mai with your kids, they will for sure be delighted to feed some of the animals!

The zoo also features special areas such as an aquarium, a snow dome and the pandas’ house. The pair of pandas living there are the biggest stars of the zoo and some of the most popular animals among visitors. A supplement must be paid on top of the entrance fee to visit these 3 attractions.

A slight drawback is that you shouldn’t expect a beautiful, well-maintained park like in Europe or North America. The standards are not the same and some areas may seem a little neglected. Besides, it’s still a zoo, so animals don’t always have all the space they need.

You can find more information on the official website for opening hours and admission fees.

When you visit Chiang Mai, you might be lucky enough to be there during one of the festivals held in the city.

There are 3 main festivals – They all draw a lot of Thai people and tourists to the city:

• The Songkran takes place every April and symbolizes the Thai New Year. The tradition is to spray water on everyone to celebrate it. Bottles, bucket, cans, or water pistols, you will need to choose your weapon! It lasts for an entire week, so if you visit the city at that time of the year, there is now way that you’ll stay dry!
• The Loi Krathong also known as the “lantern festival”, where thousands of lanterns float in the sky and on the rivers. Takes place in November.
• The Chiang Mai Flower Festival takes place every year during the first weekend of February. Dance performances, float parades and open-air concerts are organized for this event.

This activity is becoming more and more popular in Chiang Mai.

Muay Thai fights are really impressive to see in person! This fighting technique originated from a military training method used by Thai soldiers and is now the national sport in Thailand.

The experience is worth it, even if you are not a big fan of violent sports. The atmosphere of the fights is amazing, with musicians and simulated combat demonstrations during the warm-up.

There are 3 places to watch a Muay Thai fights in Chiang Mai: Kalare Stadium, Thapae Boxing Stadium and Loi Kroh Stadium.

The entrance fee is between 400 and 600 Bahts.

Don’t hesitate to ask your hotel staff for advice, they will be able to tell you where the fights are held according to the day of the week.

After a long day spent visiting Chiang Mai on foot, nothing beats a traditional Thai massage to relax a bit!

You will find massage parlors all over the city , around temples and in the streets of the old town. Most hotels also offer massage services , and some of them have really nice spas.

It costs about 250 Bahts for a one hour foot massage and 500 Bahts for a full body massage . You should expect a special experience because you will be stretched in every direction and will probably leave feeling a little stiff. But don’t worry, you will feel better a bit later!

The 5 best Things to do Around Chiang Mai

If you’ve been in Chiang Mai for several days and have already visited all the attractions mentioned above, you should go explore the surroundings.

There are several places to visit nearby on day trips or short 2-day tours.

Doi Inthanon National Park is located 80 km from Chiang Mai.

Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand , reaching an altitude of 2,565 meters. You can easily go there by car and then take a short walk to reach the summit.

You will also be able to admire the waterfalls of Nam Tok Mae Klang and Nam Tok Wachirathan in the park.

You should also see the twin stupas, built in honor of the king and the queen, whose terraces offer a very nice view.

The easiest way to get to the Doi Inthanon if you don’t have a car is to book a day trip from Chiang Mai. Hotel pick-up, transportation, guide, entrance fees and lunch are all included!

You can book it by clicking on the link below:

The best complement to a Thai massage is to try one of the hot springs around Chiang Mai.

The most famous are the hot springs of San Kamphaeng , about 40 km east of Chiang Mai.

You can soak your feet in a 40° water pool, in a beautifully landscaped garden.

However, the most popular activity there is to boil eggs where the water gushes out at over 100° . Small baskets with 3 eggs are sold at the hot springs for about 20 Bahts. You will see Thai people soaking them in water before eating them!

The entrance to the springs costs 100 Bahts and you will have to pay an extra 50 Bahts if you want to bathe in the mineral water pool.

This is an enjoyable and fun thing to do near Chiang Mai!

If you are looking for a relaxing moment, you should go to the springs during the week. On weekends, the site is packed with Thai families.

If you don’t have a car to go to San Kamphaeng from Chiang Mai, you can take the songthaew (collective yellow taxi) at Warorot market. The trip takes 1 hour and costs 50 Bahts .

Bua Thong waterfall is another beautiful natural site to visit near Chiang Mai.

It’s located 70 km north of the city.

This waterfall is quite unique: the rock on which the water runs is sticky , allowing you to climb it bare foot! It is thus nicknamed the “sticky waterfall”. A series of ropes help you climb the 3 levels of the waterfall.

Your kids will for sure love it if you’re on a family trip in Chiang Mai! You should go to the waterfall during the week to enjoy it while it isn’t too busy.

If you don’t have a car to get there, you can take a collective minibus from the Chiang Mai bus station . The minibus will drop you off about 3 km from the waterfall.

From Chiang Mai, you can go on a road trip to Mae Hong Son province, 145 km away.

The landscapes are stunning and you will see many waterfalls, hot springs and temples in the area.

The most famous city of the province is Pai . This town is very popular among tourists for its hippie and bohemian atmosphere. It is also very lively at night!

Near Chiang Mai, you should also visit another city: Chiang Rai.

To be honest, it’s not that close as it takes about 3 hours to drive the 200 km that separate both cities.

But it would be a shame to miss the main tourist attraction there: the famous White Temple. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful buildings I visited during my stay in Northern Thailand!

Even if I saw pictures of it before, it was still very impressive to see the White Temple in person. The fine workmanship , the sculptures and the white color used everywhere create a wonderful overall effect.

You can also visit the Blue Temple, the Black House Museum and the Khun Korn Waterfall if you spend a few days in Chiang Rai.

If you are not afraid of the long drive, you can also visit the white temple from Chiang Mai as a day trip. You will be picked up from your hotel in a minivan and driven to Chiang Rai to visit the temple.

A trip to the hot springs, a visit to a museum and a long-tail boat ride on the river are also included!

Sure, it will be a long day, but it’s the best solution if you don’t want to drive or if you want to use your time efficiently.

You can book your day trip to the White Temple by clicking on the link below:

This excursion to Chiang Rai can also be booked as a private 2 day tour , which is the best option if you have enough time. This tour is simply amazing! You need to click there for more info and to book it:

Please read our full city review for more information: The 17 Best Things to do in Chiang Rai.

So, what are the best things to do in Chiang Mai with children?

In order to help you have a wonderful stay with your family, here is the list of the best places to visit and activities to do with your kids in Chiang Mai .

• Have a picnic by the Huay Tung Tao Lake . Don’t forget to take pictures with the giant straw animals! Both children and adults will love it! (see picture below 😋)
• A family walk through the Saturday or Sunday Night Market, to stock up on souvenirs and enjoy street food.
• The Art In Paradise Museum and its 3D decors
• A day in an elephant sanctuary
• Zip Line Adventure
• Visit Chiang Mai Zoo
• Go for a relaxing day at the hot springs
• Climb the sticky Bua Thong waterfall.

How many days to visit Chiang Mai?

I recommend planning at least 3 days to visit Chiang Mai and its surroundings.

The old town can easily be visited on foot in one day, but there are so many other activities to do that it would be a shame not to spend a few extra days in Chiang Mai to try them out!

If you only have a day to visit Chiang Mai , you should focus on the old town and visit the most famous temples and local markets.

Here’s the program!

• Visit Wat Phra Singh
• Explore Wat Chedi Luang
• Take a few pictures at Wat Inthakin Sadue Muang
• See the the 3 Kings Monument
• If you’re interested, you can visit one of the 3 museums located on the monument square: the Cultural Center, the History Center or the Lanna Folklife Museum.
• Head to Wat Chiang Man
• Walk through Moon Muang Road and check out the many cafes, restaurants and the market.
• Go through the alleys of Warorot market.
• Visit the temples of Wat Saen Fang, Wat Buppharam and Wat Mahawan.
• In the evening during the week, go to the Night Bazaar or if it’s the weekend, go to the Saturday or Sunday Night Market.

If you have 2 days in Chiang Mai, use the previous itinerary and add:

• A visit to Doi Suthep National Park.
• Chiang Mai Zoo, conveniently located at the foot of the Doi Suthep
• A relaxing end of the day at Huay Tung Tao lake.
• In the evening , you can go watch a traditional Muay Thai fight.

If you have 3 days in Chiang Mai, in addition to the 2 previous days, I would suggest you 3 options for the third day:

1. Stay in Chiang Mai for a quiet day. You can take a cooking class in the morning, walk around the city to see the Wat Si Suphan , visit a museum and end the day with a Thai massage.

2. Spend a day at an elephant sanctuary (best one here).

3. For the sporty type: try the zip line or another activity such as trekking, quad, biking or rafting.

You are planning to spend 4, 5 days in Chiang Mai, or even a week?

Then it’s time to explore the surroundings!

1. Spend a day in the Doi Inthanon National Park.

2. Relax in the hot springs of San Khamphaeng.

3. Climb up the Bua Tong waterfall.

4. Go on a road trip to the Mae Hong Son province.

5. Organize a day trip to Chiang Rai to visit the White Temple. (or even better, opt for this amazing 2 days tour if you have the time!)

There are a lot of hotels for all budgets in Chiang Mai. However, the best ones are fully booked very quickly , so make sure to reserve your room as early as possible!

• HOSTEL by BED : Youth hostel located 500 meters from Wat Phra Sing and the Sunday market. The beds are in a modern and clean dormitory and start at 10€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: clean rooms and common areas, a good and healthy breakfast, bottled water. This is the best budget accommodation in Chiang Mai. Perfect for backpackers!
• Wing Bed : Located in the old town, 800 meters from Wat Chedi Luang. Comfortable and cosy double rooms starting at 35€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: brand new building, ideal location, excellent service. It’s my recommendation in Chiang Mai for its outstanding value for money!
• Pingviman Hotel : Located 10 minutes away from the weekend market and 700 meters from Wat Phra Sing. Thai style double rooms with carved wooden furniture, spa bath and balcony, starting at 80€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, traditional decoration, perfect location, comfort.
• 99 The Heritage Hotel : Located in the pedestrian street of the Sunday night market. Double room with tasteful decoration and very comfortable bedding starting at 135€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, friendly staff, good location, free mini bar, fruits and cakes available all day long. A great choice for a romantic stay in Chiang Mai!
• Chala Number6 : 5* hotel located in the historic center, 200 meters away from Wat Chedi Luang. This luxury hotel offers spacious and very comfortable rooms, starting at 190€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool and garden, lovely staff, charming hotel, snacks offered every day. It’s my recommendation for a luxury stay!

I don’t really have any specific restaurants to recommend in Chiang Mai.

As everywhere in Thailand, you will have plenty of options to eat great food! The old city is full of cafes, restaurants and bars . There are food stalls everywhere and you can also go to the market to buy whatever you want.

Basically, you can really eat anything at any time of the day and for cheap !

Be aware though that the restaurants in the old town are quite touristy and therefore a bit more expensive. If you’re really looking for authentic and family-friendly places to eat, just get off the main streets and you’ll have no trouble finding them.

If it makes you feel better, all the food I ate in Chiang Mai was really delicious, so don’t be afraid to try everything! You should really try the sticky mango rice, a local dessert . It won’t be really hard to find, it’s sold everywhere in the city!

Public transportation in Chiang Mai is not as developed as in Bangkok. There are no subways or bus lines. Taxis are very rare there, I hardly saw any during my stay in Chiang Mai.

As I mentioned in this guide, the best way to visit the old city is on foot!

But there are still a few other options to get around Chiang Mai:

• There are collective taxis called “Songthaew”, which look like minibuses. They have different colors (red or yellow) depending on where they go in the city. You just have to flag them down and tell the drivers where you want to go. They’ll let you know if they’re going that way or not.
• Tuk-tuks are great for short distances, but the drivers have an annoying tendency to try to rip you off! Negotiate first and if you feel that the price is too high, try the next one.
• Renting a car is still the best way not to waste time and explore the surrounding areas of Chiang Mai.
• Renting a scooter can be a good option if you’re not afraid of traffic, but it’s a lot slower than by car if you go out of the city.
• You can also hire a driver for the day if you really don’t want to drive.

How to get to Chiang Mai?

You have several options to reach Chiang Mai:

Chiang Mai has an international airport located 15 minutes away from the city center. Taking a flight is therefore the fastest way to get to Chiang Mai!

There are direct flights from many international cities.

You can also take a domestic flight from Bangkok (1 hour only!) or from other cities in Thailand such as Phuket or Krabi . Fares are inexpensive and it’s a good way not to waste time.

Be sure to compare flight prices for Chiang Mai with our flight comparison tool a bit below.

You can arrive at Chiang Mai train station from Bangkok and other neighboring countries such as Laos and Burma. Very convenient if you want to make a long road trip in Asia.

The easiest way to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok by train is to take the night train, which takes about 12 hours. The prices are really low and you should book early, as this is a very popular way to travel!

You can also go to Chiang Mai by bus , from Bangkok for example.

The travel time is similar to the train (about 12 hours) and the prices are low too. Choose a VIP or super VIP bus as they have reclining seats and toilets for added comfort.

Naturally, you can easily reach Chiang Mai by car. This is what I did during my stay in Thailand.

I went did the following trip: Bangkok – Ayutthaya – Sukhothai – Chiang Mai without any problem. The multi-lane highways are very well maintained!

Besides, Thai people drive very cautiously.

The other advantage of renting a car is that it makes it very convenient to visit the surroundings of Chiang Mai.

You can compare car rental prices in Thailand by clicking on the link below:

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Thailand by yourself. (All my Thailand travel guides are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Thailand tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Thailand tours by clicking the button below:

Flight prices to Thailand vary widely, so it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . It’s the best way to pay the best price!

To help you visualize where the best places to visit in Bangkok are located, I have made this tourist map of Chiang Mai, listing everything I talk about in this guide. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with the little arrow.

Thailand travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Thailand : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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3 Days in Chiang Mai: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

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1 month in Thailand: The Ultimate 30 Days Itinerary + My Best Tips

Discussion 4 comments.

Hi We will be reaching Chiangmai by June end we booked hotel to we are staying for four nights we arrive at three pm ,then go to hotel .we like to arrange a touring trip make sure we can see as much we can ,we are couples ,I am 60+ wife 50+ ,we are two person so please give us your best prices and list of places we can visit as much we can,so please give us prices and visiting places .

With thanks Madhu

Hello Madhu,

I am not a travel agency, I just write travel guides, so I do not personally offer organised tours in Chiang Mai.

However, in this article, I am giving you all my recommendations for day trips. Simply click on the green buttons and orange links to see the prices of the activities. For places to visit, you also already have all the things to do and see in Chiang Mai in this article.

Enjoy your stay in Chiang Mai!

so detailed, with pictures and great tips The map is soooo useful Well done and thank you for your help!

Thanks Jan! I’m glad my article with the best things to do in Chiang Mai helps you prepare your trip.

Enjoy your stay in Chiang Mai and Thailand!

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7 day Chiang Mai itinerary: Best things to see and do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

• July 27, 2023
• curious goose

This post may contain affiliate links. I will receive a small commission if you use these links.

Chiang Mai is a beautiful city in Northern Thailand. It has become a popular place for backpackers, tourists and expats alike, and after spending a week here, it’s not hard to see why!

In contrast to the south of Thailand and the laid-back vibe that comes with soft, sandy beaches and island life, Chiang Mai is a busy city, vibrant and diverse. Think western cafes mixed with local Thai markets. Massage salons and spas, shops, restaurants and an abundance of beautiful temples. And that’s just in the city centre. Venture further outside of Chiang Mai and you’ll find plenty of nature to explore in the beautiful mountains that Northern Thailand is known for.

Also read: 50 essential travel tips for visiting Southeast Asia for the first time

Brief Itinerary:

Day 1: Wander around Chiang Mai’s old city Day 2: Take a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park Day 3: Explore some of Chiang Mai’s beautiful temples Day 4: Visit the Huay Keaw waterfalls and Angkaew reservoir Day 5: Hike the Monks Trail to Wat Phra Lat and Wat Doi Suthep Day 6: Have fun at Bua Tong waterfalls (sticky waterfalls) Day 7: Visit the Mahmout Elephant Foundation

Useful information for visiting Chiang Mai:

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai? How to get to Chiang Mai Getting around Chiang Mai Is Chiang Mai expensive?

7 day Chiang Mai itinerary: Best things to see and do

Chiang Mai is one of the best places to visit when travelling in Thailand. This beautiful northern city has so much to offer. Here’s a detailed 7 day itinerary for the best things to see and do in Chiang Mai in one week.

Day 1: Wander around Chiang Mai’s old city

Start your visit to Chiang Mai by spending your first day getting to know the old city. Before you set off sightseeing, stop by the Crusty Loaf Bakery for breakfast. As well as fresh bakery items, you can also enjoy eggs, sandwiches or a Full English or American breakfast.

After a hearty breakfast, you’re ready to explore! Most of the temples and tourist sites in Chiang Mai are located in the old city. The area is surrounded by ancient brick walls and a moat. There are four main gates to enter the old city, located along each side of the old city walls. The most impressive city gate is the Tha Phae Gate at the east entrance. The area in front of this ancient gate is often used for many events and markets.

Along the south city wall, near the Pratu gate is the Chiang Mai gate market . Here you’ll find local street food and fresh fruit and vegetables. Further along the south wall, in the southwest corner, is the Nong Buak Haad Park . It’s a lovely green park with a pond and children’s playground. There’s also a walking track around the park which is used for a Park run every Saturday morning. This is a perfect place to have a rest under the shade of the trees.

Inside the city walls you will find an abundance of beautiful temples as well as plenty of shops, markets and cafes. The Fern Forest cafe in the north of the old city is a beautiful cafe with delicious fresh food and tempting cakes for an afternoon treat!

Walking through the park during Chiang Mai’s Flower Festival (L) and enjoying milkshakes at fern Forest Cafe (R)

In the centre of the old city is the Three Kings Monument – a large sculpture of Chiang Mai’s founding fathers; Kings Mengrai, Ramkamhaeng and Ngam Muang.

In the evening, there are several night markets to explore around Chiang Mai, but the best and most well known market is the Chiang Mai Sunday night market. Every Sunday at 6pm, several of the streets in the centre of Chiang Mai’s old city are closed to traffic and are taken over by market stalls. You can find everything here! There’s live music, street food stalls, arts, craft, jewellery and clothes. It is also a great place to treat yourself to a foot massage after all that walking! Without a doubt, experiencing the Sunday night market is the best thing to do in Chiang Mai.

Day 2: Take a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon is Thailand’s highest peak. Located in the Doi Inthanon National Park , 80km south of the city, it’s a great day trip from Chiang Mai.

You can either hire a car and drive there yourself, or book onto a day tour . Most of the day tours will include stops at a local market, a waterfall, the Twin Pagoda’s. The day tours also include a short nature hike and a visit to the local Karon tribe. If you want to do more hiking, then I would recommend hiring your own car and doing it at your own pace, or booking onto a multi day tour which is specifically for trekking.

The actual summit of Doi Inthanon does not have the views you might expect and the highest point of the mountain is actually surrounded by trees. Next to the summit is the Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail . It’s a short, pretty trail on a wooden boardwalk through a lush green forest.

One of the best things to do in the Doi Inthanon national park is to walk the short Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail . This circular trail is great because it’s just under 3km and suitable for beginners. It also has some of the best views in the national park! From the Kew Mae Pan viewpoint and along the ridge line you will get stunning panoramic views of the national park, with its deep valleys and mountain ranges. You will also be able to see the giant Twin Pagodas from this trail. Note that this trail is closed during the rainy season June – October.

The viewpoint and Kew Mae Pan nature trail at Doi Inthanon National Park

After your walk, stop at the Twin Pagodas for a closer look. The pagodas were built to honour the 60th birthdays of the previous (and late) King and Queen of Thailand. Standing on the terraces of the Pagodas, you will have beautiful views across the national park.

Another must-see sight within the Doi Inthanon national park is the Wachirathan Waterfall . This impressive waterfall is just a few steps from the car park and although swimming is not permitted in this waterfall, the spray should cool you off! There’s also a couple of restaurants here if you need to recharge! Other great waterfalls to see within the national park are the Mae Klang Waterfall and Mae Pan waterfall. There’s a short hike to each of these, but it is worth it if you have time.

If you have more time to spend in Chiang Mai and want to explore the National Park further, why not stay overnight and explore everything this beautiful place has to offer.

Day 3: Explore some of Chiang Mai’s beautiful temples

Thailand is well known for its beautiful temples and Chiang Mai is the city of temples. There’s so many Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai – 117 to be exact! You can’t wander too far without coming across one. So, why are there so many temples in Chiang Mai? Chiang Mai was once the capital of the Lan Na kingdom, which covered most of Northern Thailand. During this time, Chiang Mai was an important city for the kingdom as it was the centre of trade for the area and between surrounding countries. Because of the importance of Chiang Mai, many temples were built here during this time.

The most famous temple in Chiang Mai is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep . This large temple complex sits on Doi Suthep mountain and offers stunning views over the city. You will have to drive or get a taxi to Doi Suthep, but it makes for a great day out, especially if you combine it with a visit to Wat Pha Lat , which sits further down the mountain.

But, you don’t need to venture too far to see many of the beautiful must-see temples in Chiang Mai. Many of them are located in or around the old city.

One of the most impressive temples in Chiang Mai’s old city is Wat Chedi Luang . Dating back to 1481, the original chedi was built at 98m tall, making it the tallest in the city. Unfortunately, the top 30m of the chedi was destroyed in an earthquake and after restoration in the early 90’s, it now stands at just 50m tall. The Wat Chedi Luang also holds the city pillar shrine, which many claim to be the centre of the city.

Next to the well known Chedi Luang is the Wat Phan Tao . This temple is often overlooked, but is well worth a visit. The walls of the temple hall are made of teak wood, carved into beautiful decorations. At the time teak wood was an offering to the Buddha.

When visiting the Wat Phra Singh temple complex, make sure to go inside the Viharn Lai Kam assembly hall. Here, you will see detailed murals depicting traditional Thai life as it was hundreds of years ago.

Wat Lok Moki sits just outside of the city walls, on the north side. It is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai and has one of the tallest chedis in the area. Wat Lok Moki is not as shiny and highly decorated as some of the other temples, but is beautiful in an understated way.

The oldest temple in Chiang Mai is the Wat Chiang Man , dating back to the 13th century. This temple complex has two temple houses. Inside the first temple is Chiang Mai’s oldest Buddha. The second temple houses two more important Buddhas. One of the Buddhas is just 10cm tall and made out of crystal. This tiny crystal Buddha is thought to have protective and healing powers. The second significant Buddha in this temple is a standing Buddha. The standing Buddha is believed to bring rain for crops and is worshipped every April before the Songkran water festival.

When visiting the temples in Chiang Mai (and anywhere in Thailand), you must be respectful and dress appropriately. Ladies must cover their knees and shoulders and avoid wearing tight gym-style leggings. When stepping inside a temple house, remove your shoes and hat.

Heading to Bangkok? Don’t miss these 3 amazing temples in Bangkok!

Day 4: Visit the Huay Keaw waterfall and Angkaew reservoir

Just on the edge of Chiang Mai city is the Huay Keaw waterfall. It’s a short 10 minute drive from the old city. Hop in a Songthaew taxi and spend the morning here. There is a short walking trail alongside the waterfall and you can walk to a viewpoint for views over the city. It’s worth noting that during the dry season the waterfall is not so full, so it’s better to visit between July and October when it is more impressive after the rain.

After spending the morning at Huay Keaw waterfall, either jump into a Songtheaw or take a walk to Angkaew reservoir. The reservoir is located on the grounds of Chiang Mai university, but it is open to the public. Enjoy a stroll round the small reservoir and take a picnic and a book and spend the afternoon relaxing.

Visiting Huay Keaw waterfall and the Angkaew reservoir is a great way to spend some time in nature whilst in Chiang Mai, without having to travel too far out of the city.

At the end of the day, check out the Chiang Mai university night market , just across the road from the campus. This small market has a great atmosphere and there’s plenty of street food stalls here as well as clothing shops.

Day 5: Hike the Monks Trail to Wat Phra Lat and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

If you want to go hiking in Chiang Mai, one of the best hiking trails in the city is the Monk’s Trail. This linear hiking trail will take you up through hilly woodland to the beautiful Wat Phra Lat and then continue onto Wat Doi Suthep. It’s a 6.5km out and back trail and it can be challenging as it ascends steeply on rocky ground. Good trainers or walking shoes are needed for this hike.

The first part of the hike to Wat Phra Lat is along a clearly marked path. Originally, Wat Phra Lat was used as a resting point for monks walking to Wat Doi Suthep. Although Wat Phra Lat is much more understated than Wat Doi Suthep, it has the most beautiful surroundings, nestled amongst the jungle. There are no crowds, cafes or shops at Wat Phra Lat,making it a very peaceful and tranquil place.

Wat Phra Lat

From here, you can choose to go back down to the start of the trail, or continue the hike up to Wat Doi Suthep. This second part of the trail is the most challenging and is very steep in places. The trail is not well marked and can be difficult to find without a map, so plan ahead.

Once you reach Wat Doi Suthep from the hiking trail, you will immediately be rewarded with panoramic views of Chiang Mai from the large terrace. At the centre of the temple complex is the main temple building and large gold chedi.

If you just want to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, you can get a taxi or Songtheaw to the main entrance at the base of the temple. From here, you can either walk the 309 steps to the temple complex, or take the tram up. Wat Doi Suthep may be the most popular temple in Chiang Mai, but that also means it is the most commercialised. There are many tourists visiting this temple and at the main entrance there is a large covered market selling clothes, jewellery and crafts. You can also get some street food here too.

Wat Doi Suthep

From Wat Doi Suthep, there are many taxis waiting to take you back down to Chiang Mai city. You can also take a taxi tour from here to explore more of the Doi Suthep area, including the Bubbing Palace , Hmong hill tribe village and Doi Suthep peak .

Exploring these two temples and the area around Doi Suthep is one of the best things to do whilst in Chiang Mai.

The Flower garden in Hmong hill tribe village on Doi Suthep

Day 6: Have fun at Bua Tong waterfall (sticky waterfall)

The Bua Tong waterfall is one of the most popular trips from Chiang Mai. The natural waterfall is quite unique as you can climb up it! Thanks to the minerals in the rocks, they are not slippery. This means that you can easily walk up the rocks as the waterfall flows down over them. This sensation of being able to ‘grip’ to the rocks as you walk over them has given these waterfalls the nickname, ‘sticky waterfalls’. The walk up the waterfall is easy and far less strenuous than the Na Mueang waterfall hike in Koh Samui !

As well as climbing the waterfall, there is also a short nature trail and a picnic area. A couple of hours will be plenty of time here and it is a great way to spend the morning. Even better, it is completely free of charge to enter the sticky waterfalls!

The Bua Tong waterfalls are located 70km outside of Chiang Mai, so you will need to take a taxi. A grab car should cost around £20-£25 there and back as they will wait for you.

If you’d rather not arrange your own transport, book onto a tour to the Sticky waterfalls, often they will also take you to another local attraction en route, like this tour which combines the Sticky falls and Doi Suthep (perfect if you don’t fancy the walk up to Doi Suthep temple!)

Back in Chiang Mai, spend the afternoon treating yourself to a massage . There are plenty of massage salons and spas in Chiang Mai, including a centre run by female ex-prisoners. Just remember that the massages in Thailand are a little rougher than what you might be used to! If you prefer a more gentle massage, ask for an oil massage.

Climbing the ‘sticky’ waterfalls (L) and the picnic area at the top (R)

Day 7: Visit the Mahout Elephant Foundation

One of the most popular things to do in Thailand is to experience an encounter with an elephant. Whilst this is amazing, it is important that it is an ethical encounter and protects the welfare of the elephants. The Mahout Elephant Foundation is one of the best ethical elephant experiences in Thailand. It is a rescue and rehabilitation centre for elephants who have been saved from a working camp. There are several ways you can experience the elephants at the Mahout foundation and, as with all animal encounters, it is important that you research for yourself before visiting.

(Another great place to see elephants in Asia is at Udawalawe national park in Sri Lanka where you can take a safari tour to see elephants in their natural habitat).

If you have longer than 7 days in Chiang Mai then here are some other great things you can do in and around Chiang Mai:

• Take a day trip to Chaing Rai to see the famous White Temple
• Spend an afternoon at Huay Tung Tao Reservoir
• Watch a Muay Thai fight
• Visit San Kamphaeng hot springs
• Have fun at Grand Canyon waterpark
• Experience a Thai cooking class
• If you have 2 weeks in Thailand (or more), why not explore further afield, and visit Bangkok, Chiang Rai or Pai  

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai has 3 main seasons: cool (November to February), hot (March to May), and rainy (June to October). The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cool season, when the temperature is more bearable. The daytime in the cool season will see average temperatures at around 28 degrees Celsius. If you are exploring the mountainous regions around Chiang Mai, the temperature can drop to as low as 10 degrees due to the higher altitude, so just bear that in mind and take a warm layer.

It is best to avoid the months of March-April when visiting Chiang Mai. Not only is this the hottest time of year, but it is also when the ‘burning season’ is at its peak. Burning season is when farmers burn their crops, creating big, thick clouds of smoke and causing high levels of air pollution. Humidity is high and visibility is low during this time, making it quite uncomfortable. Book accommodation with air conditioning and stay indoors if you have respiratory conditions during the height of the burning season.

How to get to Chiang Mai

By plane: Chiang Mai’s international airport is well connected with other international and domestic routes, meaning that flying into Chiang Mai is really easy. It is just 10 minutes by taxi from the old city an a ride should cost about 150 thb.

By Bus: Chiang Mai has 3 bus terminals. Terminal 1 is just outside the old city walls and is mostly local buses connecting the city centre to the suburbs of Chiang Mai. Terminals 2 and 3 are located about 15 minutes east of the old city and from here buses connect Chiang Mai with other large cities in Thailand. You can also catch the minibus to Pai from here. Book your ticket in advance via 12go to secure your seat, especially in the busy peak season

By train: Chiang Mai railway station is 15 minutes east of the old city. From here you can catch trains from and to larger cities in Thailand, including the overnight sleeper train to Bangkok.

Getting around Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a large, busy city so unless you are very confident and experienced riding a scooter, it is best to use local transport instead. There are several options available for local transport in and around Chiang Mai.

Songthaews – These are the red trucks that you see everywhere in Thailand. Simply flag one down when you see it pass and tell them where you need to go. Often they will pick other passengers up along the way, so your journey might be longer, but this is usually the cheapest option of getting around.

Tuk-Tuks – Tuk-Tuks can be a fun way of exploring the city and many of them will offer 1 hour city tours for a set price. Tuk-Tuks are usually more expensive than Songtheaws and there are a lot of scams which can happen with Tuk-Tuk drivers, so just make sure that you agree on a price before getting in.

Grab – Grab or Line are both widely used in Chiang Mai and are a great low-cost way of getting around. The Grab taxis are private, air-conditioned cars and are a better option if you are travelling a longer distance.

Private taxis – Similar to Grab, private taxis can be a great way of getting out of the city. It is common to hire a private taxi for the day or half a day for a set fee. If you are happy with your driver, get their phone number and use them for several journeys throughout your stay – you’ll have a better chance of getting a good price each time this way.

Is Chiang Mai expensive?

The north of Thailand is often cheaper than the south and the islands, and Chiang Mai is no exception. Chiang Mai is very affordable, even for travellers on a tight budget, with a range of accommodation options around the city. I stayed at Lanna Tree boutique , which was conveniently located just inside the old city.

If you are looking for a more upscale hotel in a great location, check out this review of the Anantara Chiang Mai hotel. 

In Chiang Mai, you’ll find plenty of local Thai restaurants serving good portions of delicious local food at very reasonable prices. To give you an idea, you can easily buy a meal and a drink for as low as £3!

There’s also plenty of great fresh markets and street food in Chiang Mai. Getting around is much cheaper in Chiang Mai than in the south too. Taxis cost less and using grab is great as you can see how much a taxi should cost when you’re planning your trips.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Chiang Mai

EPIC 3-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary (2024)

Surrounded by lofty mountains hugged by tropical jungle, Chiang Mai is not your typical urban sprawl! Despite its size, the chilled atmosphere and proximity to nature make it one of the most relaxed cities you’ll ever visit.

Chiang Mai has a proud past as an independent kingdom and still retains many of its traditional  Lanna  customs. You’ll be immersed in all of this and more with our in-depth Chiang Mai itinerary!

Chiang Mai’s such an amazing city that we’ve waxed lyrical about it on countless posts and we’re going to do it again: from gorgeous temples to an atmosphere of zen, there are so many reasons to travel to Chiang Mai!

Whether you’re shopping up a storm at the Night Bazaar or up to your knees in mud as you watch elephants bathe in the river, there’s plenty of fun to be had on your visit to Chiang Mai — just hold tight to our 3-Day Chiang Mai itinerary!

Let’s get right to it…

A Little Bit about this 3-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary

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If you want to have a great time backpacking Chiang Mai , it doesn’t really matter how many days you spend here but you do need to have an awesome itinerary — and that’s exactly what we’ve put together right here! From charming temples to vibrant markets, everything you need for an incredible trip to Chiang Mai is packed in 3 days!

Getting around between attractions isn’t very hard. In fact, there are various methods of transportation for you to pick and choose from!

Walking between sites on your 3-day itinerary in Chiang Mai is probably the best method of transport. Since most landmarks are located in the Old City or around the markets, the distances aren’t too far. You should, however, take care when walking: the sidewalks aren’t always well-maintained and are often used by motorcyclists!

The public transport system is centered around tuk-tuks. They’re kind of like taxis as they travel to specific places that you request. Just prepare for a bumpy and very speedy ride!

Song Taews, or Red Taxis, are shared taxis that sometimes have set destinations and other times don’t. For both the Song Taew and the tuk-tuk, you should negotiate prices.

The final option is to hire a motorbike. While many tourists think that getting around on a motorbike is a quintessential part of their vacation in Chiang Mai, it’s worth remembering that Thailand has the second-highest number of road accidents in the world — so make sure you actually know how to drive a motorcycle!

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3-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary Overview

Day 1 in Chiang Mai: Elephant Nature Park , Wat Phra Singh , Wat Phan Tao , Wat Chedi Luang , Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Day 2 in Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center , Chiang Mai National Museum , Wat Umong , Wat Phra That Doi Suthep , San Kamphaeng Road

Day 3 in Chaing Mai: Lanna Folk life Museum , Bhubing Palace , Mae Ping River , Thai Massage , Terracotta Garden

More Places to See in Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai Gate Market , Wat Umong , Wualai Walking Street

As relaxed and peaceful as Chiang Mai may seem, the city is actually quite big! That said, the area that most tourists tend to stick to is quite compact in the downtown part of the city. Here, there are various neighborhoods that will appeal to all kinds of travelers!

Knowing where to stay in Chiang Mai is important to make the most out of the 3 days. Old City has to be the ultimate best place to stay in Chiang Mai. This neighborhood is in the heart of the city and is chock-a-block with the most fascinating Chiang Mai points of interest, such as Wat Chedi Luang!

It’s also the best area in town for those on a budget as there are plenty of Chiang Mai’s backpacker hostels and budget accommodations located here, and you can save costs on transport by walking to the nearby attractions!

Nimmanhaemin, often called Nimman, is a more alternative, modern part of Chiang Mai. It has a vibrant atmosphere and is the center of the city’s local nightlife! Although the most iconic landmarks on your Chiang Mai itinerary aren’t in the area, there are plenty of things to keep you busy, such as bars, clothing boutiques and the local university!

Best Chiang Mai Airbnb – Beautiful Thai Home

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A gorgeous traditional wooden house with all modern comforts and conveniences, this Chiang Mai Airbnb is situated near the moat. There’s one king-sized bedroom, another bedroom with bunk beds and a single bed, and an air bed in the living room if required. Bedrooms have air conditioning. The bathroom is new and there’s an open-air kitchen, living room, and dining area. The home has Wi-Fi. There’s secure parking.

Best Budget Hotel in Chiang Mai – Arch39 Minimal Art & Craft

Centrally-located, characterful and sparklingly clean… what else could you ask for from a budget hotel? Arch39 Minimal Art & Craft offers real value for money with its array of spacious rooms, complimentary bicycle hire and delicious breakfasts! The staff are also incredibly friendly and helpful with arranging your 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary!

Best Luxury Hotel in Chiang Mai –  The Inside House

This elegant and comfortable hotel truly deserves its 5-star rating! It’s situated in a stunning white and green mansion in the city center, with landmarks like the Chiang Mai Gate within walking distance! The hotel’s bathrooms are particularly luxurious, mixing indoor and outdoor living with bathtubs set beside private pools and surrounded by greenery — you’ll have to redefine the notion of bliss after a dip here!

Best Hostel in Chiang Mai – S*Trips The Poshtel

What’s not to love about an affordable downtown hostel with plenty of quality facilities? You’ll find all this and more at S*Trips The Poshtel! It’s within walking distance to many of the sites on our 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary, such as the Night Bazaar. It’s also noted for its impeccable cleanliness and spacious dormitories.

The first day in Chiang Mai is all about getting to know the key attractions that you’ll find in Old City! Thailand is famous for its stunning temples – you can literally feast your eyes on every single one of them! It’s a great way to start your 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary. To round the day off, you’ll dine on local Thai cuisine while bargaining like a local in the bazaar!

Every map that you see in this article includes a hyperlink to an interactive version on Google Driving. After clicking the map image, the interactive version will be opened in a new tab.

9:00 AM – Elephant Nature Park

Elephants have long called Thailand home but in recent years they have been under threat from tourism, habitat loss, logging and poaching. Elephants may seem strong but riding them can actually harm them. Thanks to Elephant Nature Park , tourists can now interact with the iconic Thai elephants in a more ethical way!

The 250-acre grounds are home to around 70 rescued elephants which you can mingle with as they go about their daily lives. This is the perfect way to start your Chiang Mai itinerary! The short park visit includes transport to and from your hotel, the opportunity to feed the elephants (if they want to eat) and to enjoy the sight of them mucking around in the river! Note that none of the tours are the same as the park lets the elephants decide what they want to do. If they feel like sleeping during the day, that’s all you’ll get to see. No animal is forced to do anything or to entertain the crowds.

Make sure to bring some water and a hat – the sun can get quite harsh around noon-time. Wearing closed and comfortable shoes is also recommended since you’ll  be in your feet quite a lot. The tour stops around 3pm, but with the hotel drop off, you can keep exploring the city without a problem.

• Cost  – around $81
• How long should I stay here?  5-6 hours
• Getting there –   Pick up and Drop off at your hotel

4:00 PM – Wat Phra Singh

Wat Phra Singh is the largest temple in Chiang Mai and an absolute must on your 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary! There are three main structures in the temple complex that you should visit.

Viharn Lai Kam is the temple’s assembly hall. It was originally constructed all the way back in 1345 and is the epitome of Lanna-style building. Be sure to admire the roof which was designed in the shape of wings! Inside, it’s beautifully decorated with wooden carvings and stucco. The highlight, though, is the statue of Phra Singh, the Lion Buddha. If you’re lucky enough to be in Chiang Mai for the Songkran festival, it is this Buddha that is processed around the city!

Viharn Luang is the larger assembly hall at the temple, though it’s less ornate than Viharn Lai Kam. It’s home to a magnificent image of Buddha cast in gold during the 15th century!

Finally, Haw Trai is the temple’s library. It’s a beautiful stone structure that houses Buddhist scriptures.

Insider Tip:  Most temples have a fairly strict dress code which includes covered shoulders and knees. The feet are considered dirty in Buddhism so make sure to leave your shoes (your material feet, as it were) in the dedicated spot at the temple entrance.

• Cost  – $1 USD
• How long should I stay here?  1 hour
• Getting there –   Wat Phra Singh has its own public transport station.

5:00 PM – Wat Phan Tao

Once a palace, this pretty structure is now one of the most beautiful sites on any Chiang Mai itinerary! This unusual temple in was built of specially-molded teak panels that were fit tightly together, supported by teak pillars. Look up as you enter: the three-tiered roof features gilded snake tails and there’s a spectacular gilt carving of a peacock above the entrance!

Inside, you’ll find a  dhamma , a wooden casket that holds Buddhist scriptures written on palm leaves. Some of these precious documents are on display. You’ll also find a  busbok , a tall, ornate box for images of the Buddha. Also, be sure to admire the golden sitting Buddha!

If you find yourself getting hungry and craving lunch, Khaow Tom Restaurant is nearby and a locals favorite. Serving mouth-watering Asian cuisine, you can charge some energy for the rest of the day!

• Cost  – Free
• Getting there –   You can easily walk through Old Town

6:00 PM – Wat Chedi Luang

Most of Chiang Mai’s temples are gold and meant to be admired in direct sunlight but not Wat Chedi Luang! This ancient temple is best viewed at night when lanterns and candles breathe magic into the atmosphere, so head here around dinnertime!

Wat Chedi Luang isn’t as majestic as Wat Phra Singh but it has an atmosphere that isn’t easily beaten! It’s a partially ruined, tall and imposing structure that is a testament to Chiang Mai’s long and glorious past. It was built in the 14th and 15th centuries with a pagoda rising 80 meters high! Over time, the height diminished to 60 meters but Wat Chedi Luang remains one of the most impressive Chiang Mai landmarks!

The main sanctuary is home to the Phra Chao Attarot who is surrounded by his disciples. At the end of the complex is a large reclining Buddha and an even bigger seated Buddha.

Another highlight is the Lak Meuang. It’s a decorative pillar that was constructed at the founding of Chiang Mai in 1296. Unfortunately, it can only be viewed by men. If you’re lucky enough to fall under this category, be sure to put this experience on your 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary.

Insider Tip:  One of the most original experiences you can have on a weekend in Chiang Mai is talk with a Buddhist monk! Wat Chedi Luang is the perfect spot to do so. Monks congregate on the northern side of the temple grounds so that they can talk about Buddhism with visitors! They’re there between 9:00 and 18:00.

• Getting there –   You can easily walk through Old Town

7:30 PM – Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Now that you’ve made some epic memories touring the Old Town and have gotten to know more about the city, it’s time to start finding the perfect mementoes for your 3-day stay in Chiang Mai! You’ll find a mind-blowing variety of goods on offer at the Night Bazaar and the vibrant ambience is so infectious that it’s worth a visit even if you’re not buying!

Night Bazaar has many different goods on sale, from knock-offs to antiques, but it’s the ideal place to visit in Chiang Mai to purchase traditional Thai crafts. Soft Thai silks and carved wooden items are the most popular souvenirs but don’t overlook the bamboo rice boxes, silver jewellery, and handmade soaps and candles

Bargaining is key to getting a good price and is an expected norm in the market. However, the prices are generally quite low anyway. Negotiate with a friendly smile and have the exact amount you settle on at hand.

Insider Tip:  Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is great but if you’re here on a weekend in Chiang Mai, you may want to switch it for the Saturday or Sunday Night Walking Street. Both of these markets consist of vendors lining the street and crowds of people shopping and eating. It’s quite hectic but it is a famous Chiang Mai attraction!

• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours
• Getting there –   Taxi/Grab or Walk through Old Town

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

With 2 days in Chiang Mai, it’s time to look behind the stunning landmarks and get to know the history and culture that built them! There’s more to Thailand than just street food and temples (although that worth a visit alone!). History lovers will enjoy this day especially. Take notice that the last stop today is a bit further from the city centre. Make sure you wear comfy shoes, as you’ll be walking around quite a lot.

9:00 AM – Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center

Right in the middle of Old City, you’ll find this excellent museum in the old provincial government hall. This beautiful Art Deco building is certainly a great place to start the second day.

The monument in front of the center is the Three Kings Monument. King Mengra, the founder of Chiang Mai, stands with his friends (also kings) who were involved in the layout of Chiang Mai. It’s quite an iconic image that comes in various forms across the city.

The exhibitions are dedicated to fostering an understanding of Chiang Mai’s history in visitors and a sense of local pride. The front section focuses on Chiang Mai through the ages, using multimedia to tell the city’s rich history. The back section of the museum hosts temporary events and exhibitions in the hope of preserving the area’s culture. There’s a replica of a traditional Lanna village and a Thai temple. You’ll also find a quaint souvenir shop in this area!

• Cost  – $3 or $6 USD (depends on ticket)
• How long should I stay here?  2 hours
• Getting there –   Walk through Old Town or grab a Taxi

11:00 AM – Chiang Mai National Museum

There’s no doubt that the city’s National Museum is one of the most underrated places to visit in Chiang Mai: few people wonder what to do in Chiang Mai and think of this little gem! Luckily for you, we can highly recommend it!

The Chiang Mai National Museum is the perfect continuation of the trip down history lane that the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center would’ve started! It’s small and quiet so the exhibitions tend to make quite an impact.

First, you’ll be introduced to the Lua and Hari Phunchai people. The latter founded the first known kingdom in northern Thailand. Then comes the famed Lanna Kingdom. It’s presented through a beautiful selection of archaeological artefacts from everyday objects to magnificent Buddha statues!

Chiang Mai was once part of the independent Kingdom of Chiang Mai. This kingdom’s close relationship with Siam is also presented in an exhibition, with a particular emphasis on their artistic developments.

Many of the artifacts in the museum are also works of art so it’s sure to be one of the most breathtaking experiences on your Chiang Mai itinerary!

• Cost  – $3 or $6 (depends on ticket)
• Getting there –   Right next to the Arts Centre

1:30 PM – Wat Umong

With 2 days in Chiang Mai, you’ll have time to visit a few more temples. Wat Umong is often known as the Hidden Temple as not many tourists find it in the jungle outside of Chiang Mai.

Wat Umong was founded in 1297, just a year after Chiang Mai was established. Its architecture is characterized by the use of tunnels. At the end of each tunnel is a Buddha or another symbol. The tunnels are designed so that external sounds are minimized, creating a hushed and deeply spiritual atmosphere.

In the temple grounds is a collection of Buddha statues, many of which are disfigured. It creates an other-worldly environment for a peaceful stroll in the forest. Keep an eye out for wooden plates bearing Buddhist proverbs in English and Thai! On the edge of the grounds is a small lake and you can reach the island by crossing a bridge.

Insider Tip:  Combine your visit to Wat Umong with a visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. You can take a tuk-tuk or songthaew to reach the site which is about four kilometers outside of Chiang Mai. Get your driver to wait for you as not many vehicles stop here.  If you’re here on a Sunday between 15:00 and 18:00, join one of the talks in the Chinese Pavilion about Buddhism.

• Cost  – Free!
• How long should I stay here?  30min – 1 hour
• Getting there –   Easy to reach by Taxi

3:00 PM – Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

By now, you’ll have seen your fair share of temples and may even be feeling a bit “templed out”. Bear with us, though, because we’ve saved the best for last!

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was founded in 1383 to house a fragment of the historical Buddha’s shoulder bone. The original bone was brought by a monk to Lanna where it broke into two pieces. One was enshrined at Wat Suan Dok, while the other was tied to a sacred white elephant who wandered the jungle. The spot on which the elephant died was the spot chosen to house this bone shard: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

Visitors need to ascend 306 steps to get to the temple. The long route is meant to help devotees gain Buddhist merit but if that doesn’t appeal to you, there is a funicular alternative.

On top of the stairs is a statue of the legendary elephant that picked the temple’s location. There are also various shrines and other monuments.

The temple itself is split into an inner and an outer terrace. The inner terrace houses the sacred relic of the Buddha. There’s a walkway around the golden  Chedi  in which the relic sits.

Try to get here just before sunset. The monks will gather for prayers and the panoramic view of Chiang Mai becomes even prettier in the fading light!

• Cost  – $2 USD
• Getting there –   Grab a Tuk Tuk

4:00 PM San Kamphaeng Road

Make sure you’re wearing comfy shoes when you arrive at San Kamphaeng Road because there are loads of villages and factories on this Chiang Mai walking tour!

San Kamphaeng Road is the best place in Chiang Mai to buy Thai silk which is often considered to be the best in the world. Try Shinawatra Thai Silk , the oldest silk factory in Thailand.

Continuing a 600-year-old tradition are the potters of San Kamphaeng. You can visit the ancient Lanna kilns in the area before watching the modern masters. Chiang Mai’s potters are very skilled at Celadon, very fine, greenish ceramics. Baan Celadon is the best place to see the artists at work.

Bo Sang Handicraft Center really deserves its place on your 3-day itinerary in Chiang Mai! Its principal craft is traditional umbrellas. These colorful items can be seen all over Chiang Mai and are made of Bamboo frames and Saa paper (which comes from local tree bark). The artists then hand paint various motifs onto the umbrellas, meaning that each umbrella is a unique, useful product! You can both watch the crafting process and buy the finished product at Bo Sang Handicraft Center.

You can also find brilliant silverwork and woodwork in San Kamphaeng Road. Whether you’re buying or not, don’t miss out on this excellent attraction. Just being able to watch traditional art in the making means San Kamphaeng Road is one of the most unique  places to visit in Chiang Mai !

• How long should I stay here?  1-3 hours
• Getting there –   Taxi or Tuk Tuk

By the time we reach day 3, we will have already seen a lot. It might be the case that you want to have a chill day and not do so much. Feel free to cut out a few parts of this particular itinerary and then save the rest when planning your next trip to Chiang Mai!

8:30 AM – Lanna Folklife Museum

Lanna Folklife Museum doesn’t have as many historical items as the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center or the Chiang Mai National Museum but it does do a splendid job of personalizing the Lanna people’s glorious history!

Detailed images of daily life are recreated through the use of wax dolls and reconstructions. For example, there’s a trio of wax dolls playing music, while a life-size loom allows you up close to Lanna arts!

It’s a great spot to spend some time if you’re travelling with kids. Learning about Chiang Mai’s culture and the history behind it might not be everyone’s favorite thing, but it sure is interesting and informative.

• Cost : $3 or $6 (depending on ticket)
• How long should I stay here?  Max 1 hour
• Getting there  – If you’re staying in the Old City, you can walk here.

10:00 AM – Bhubing Palace

Bhubing Palace is as visited by locals as by tourists due to its spectacular gardens! No visit would be complete without a garden stroll but the buildings themselves are also quite interesting!

Phra Tamnak Bhubing Rajanives is the main building of the palace complex. The upper level is home to the royal family, while the lower level is reserved for their entourage.

There are a number of other residences in the palace complex, such as Ruen Peek Ma (Log Cabin) which is inhabited by a royal princess. Ruen Rab Rong is a royal guesthouse built in the modern Thai style.

In the gardens, make sure to admire the palace’s famed rose garden. It’s also worth visiting the water reservoir which doubles as a fountain. The music playing in the background was composed by the former king himself!

Insider Tip:  Much like the temples, Bhubing Palace has a strict dress code. Your shoulders should be covered (but not with a scarf) and your bottoms should fall below your mid-calf. You should also keep your voice down!

• Cost : $2 USD
• How long should I stay here?  30min
• Getting there  – By taxi as it’s quite a way to travel…

12:00 AM – Mae Ping River

Riverside, as the area on the banks of Mae Ping is known, is considered to be the most relaxed part of Chiang Mai. It’s home to several luxury resorts, shops, markets and stunning views!

We suggest you set aside a few hours for a chilled walk around the area. You could choose to visit Warorot Market, a fruit market that also hosts stalls selling street food and other goods. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll around the area’s many shops and cafes.

We highly recommend having lunch at one of the riverside restaurants. The Good View Bar & Restaurant is one of the most famed establishments on any Chiang Mai itinerary — and with good reason! Sit down outside, right beside the river, to soak up the eponymous views while dining on classic Thai dishes like deep-fried shrimp.

Of course, you should definitely go on a boat ride along the lovely Ping River. It’s a humbling experience to see how the riverbank changes from bustling city to tranquil farmland.

• How long should I stay here?  Anything between 1-3 hours
• Getting there  – Take a Tuk Tuk and enjoy the view!

3:00 PM – Thai Massage

Thai massage is unique in that it doesn’t involve oil being massaged onto bare skin. You’re given a set of loose clothes to change into and the treatment revolves around pressing down on your muscles firmly and stretching them gently.

The Women’s Correctional Institute is a good place to try out a traditional Thai massage. There’s no need to worry about safety as there are guards on duty and all the inmates are trained for 6 months in Thai massage.

If you’d like to support the women but would feel more comfortable with ex-inmates, then try Lila Thai Massage . The company provides jobs to many former prisoners who trained with the Women’s Correctional Institute. It’s not a luxury spa but the services are top-notch!

• Cost : No set price
• Getting there  – You’l find massage places everywhere, so either walk or take a taxi.

4:30 PM – Terracotta Garden

Hidden from the city by a decorative wall, the Terracotta Garden is sort of place you either look for or just happen to stumble upon! Stepping into the walled garden is like reaching an oasis: all around you, you’ll see shamrock-green leaves spilling out between larger-than-life Buddha-style statues.

The collection of ornate pots, wall hangings and statues is breathtaking. We recommend that you pull out a chair and place an order with the small cafe for drinks while you meander leisurely around the garden. Don’t worry if it rains; the cafe is entirely enclosed by glass so you can still feel like you’re in the garden while remaining dry inside!

The Terracotta Garden is actually a showroom for Baan Phor Liang Muen, a well-established terracotta shop. The items on show are all handmade by local artists, so they are on sale, although that’s not the main reason to visit.

Insider Tip:  If you’d like to learn a bit about pottery, why not do so at the Terracotta Garden? Call ahead of time to arrange a pottery workshop in the garden with a local artist!

• Cost : Free
• How long should I stay here?  Only as a stroll around
• Getting there  – As your Taxi driver to drop you off

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Chiang Mai

The Old City is often the cheapest place to stay in Chiang Mai, with a plethora of backpackers’ hostels and budget guesthouses making it one of the best places to stay in Chiang Mai for broke backpackers.

• Admire one of the city’s few remaining wooden buildings at the old monastery of Wat Phan Tao.
• Stroll around the outer defensive walls and enter the city through Thapae Gate.
• Go offbeat at the Thai Coin Museum and Mengrai Kilns.

Try to spend as long as possible in the city. There are just so many amazing attractions to visit that 3 days in Chiang Mai will pass by in a whirlwind! If you can, try to stay a little bit longer and visit even more awesome hotspots. We’ve listed a couple more of our favorites down below. Note that these are in no particular order.

1. Chiang Mai Gate Market

This market has the most awesome food stalls in Chiang Mai and perhaps even all of Thailand. The market is held most nights of the week, but weeknights are the most popular. There are fewer vendors on weekend nights, so make sure you go when you can enjoy everything this market can offer.

It’s a great spot to end the day or even squeeze into day 1 or 2. If your stomach can take it, try out the local dishes and things you normally wouldn’t eat (I’d recommend fried insects as a little snack!).

Eat lightly throughout the day and prepare yourself for a night blowout. And once you’re there, your mouth will be watering from all the different smells and spices in the air. If you’re not into insects, there are other popular dishes like mango sticky rice, smoothies, and pad kra pow, which is a spicy meat and basil dish.

• Cost  – Depends on your hunger>
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours.
• Getting there  – Taxi, Grab or Tuk Tuk

2. Wat Umong

There are a lot of temples and shrines in Thailand. In fact, when you’re looking for the most interesting places to visit in Chiang Mai, you’ll find that most of them are temples. But these shrines are a little different because they’re nestled underground, attached to a network of tunnels that were once used by a king and a Chiang Mai monk who preferred to pray underground.

This site was first abandoned in the 15th century but fortunately, it wasn’t eaten by the forest. It’s now open to the local Buddhist monks as well as curious travelers.

The tunnels are located a few miles out of town, so you’ll need to get a motorbike or arrange other transport to get there.

Make sure that you book return transport too, or you might find it difficult to get back to your hotel. Once you’re there, explore the tunnels and the surrounding forest as well. You’ll find numerous Buddhist shrines, statues, and signs all over the area. And the hunt is partly what makes this one of the most enthralling points of interest in Chiang Mai.

• Cost : $2-3
• How long should I stay here?  1 hour  
• Getting there  – Taxi if you don’t have a motorbike.

3. Wualai Walking Street

If you’re into shopping, but big crowds irritate you, this is the perfect spot for your Chiang Mai itinerary. Fewer tourists visit this walking street but that doesn’t mean there are less things to see.

If you want a fun and lively market that isn’t as packed as the rest, then show up on Wualai for the Saturday market. It opens in the later afternoon and runs until late.

It’s a little smaller, which is why you won’t have to fight your way through the crowds. It’s also more like a strolling market, where you’ll find a good array of goods and food stalls without the claustrophobic crush of other markets in the city. It’s known for its peaceful atmosphere, without any rush or hectic. If you’re in Chiang Mai over the weekend, it’s definitely a cool spot to check out.

• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours is plenty enough  
• Getting there  – Get a Taxi or Tuk Tuk to drop you off where the street starts.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

You can generally categorize Chiang Mai’s climate into three seasons. It’s rainy season from May to October. November to February is winter, while March to April is summer. Summer may sound like a good time to travel to Chiang Mai but it’s also burning season. During this time, farmers in the surrounding countryside burn the remainder of their harvest. This causes extensive smog which often obscures the mountain ranges around Chiang Mai and causes pollution in the city.

In terms of planning your trip, it doesn’t really matter when you visit exactly. With the exception of the burning season, Chiang Mai is generally a great destination year-round as every season brings its advantages. The best time to visit Chiang Mai tends to be in the shoulder season. June and October are both good times to enjoy pleasant weather.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – nothing beats having a motorbike when visiting Chiang Mai. As long as you’re comfortable on a bike and can handle the slightly intense Thai driving style, having a scooter will make your life much easier. There are rental shops on every corner in Chiang Mai, with most offering daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Make sure you check your bike (even take photos of its condition before you head off) and ask for a helmet.

Those not comfortable on a bike will have to get by on public transportation. There’s no metro system in Chiang Mai, but there are a ton of bus routes and the ubiquitous songthaew . These color-coded pickup trucks go just about everywhere in the city but can be a bit confusing. If you’re looking to do Chiang Mai on the cheap, the songthaew are definitely the way to go.

Taxis will always get you from A to B in the safest way possible (the Thai idea of “safe”) but haggling for a fair price can sometimes be a pain in the a*s. If you can, rent a personal driver while you’re in Chiang Mai or use Grab. Grab is the cheapest and most efficient way to get around, but if you’re travelling in a large group it can sometimes be a bit of a struggle to find a transport big enough or get everyone on the back of a bike.

Obviously your trip starts with packing your bag. make sure to have a pair of comfortable shoes with you (you’ll be walking a lot), a hat and sunscreen – the Thai sun can get quite harsh around noon time. Be sure to tick off all of the essentials on your Thailand Packing List before you start your travels so your Chiang Mai experience will be a success.

While there are certain things to watch out for in the city, worries about safety in Chiang Mai certainly shouldn’t stop you from planning a trip to Chiang Mai!

Avoid drugs when backpacking in Thailand . As chilled out as Chiang Mai is, Thailand is very strict when it comes to drug use and there’s no exception when it comes to foreigners. Stay clear, then, because the lightest sentence is a $2000 USD fine!

A common scam occurs with tuk-tuk drivers who offer tourists free rides, take them to gem stores and forcefully encourage them to buy. If you feel uncomfortable, calling loudly for the tourist police tends to work well.

The biggest danger, however, comes from road accidents. Thailand is notorious for its large number of road accidents and foreigners trying out the seemingly cool motorbike are often involved. Only hire a motorbike if you’re experienced with riding one and always wear a helmet. In fact, many backpackers are killed each year in motor accidents while driving in Thailand, so, please, follow the travel advice and warnings, respect the road, and stay safe!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Chiang Mai

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Chiang Mai itinerary.

How many days should you need in Chiang Mai?

Four or five nights should be enough to explore the city and beyond.

What are some cool things to do in Chiang Mai at night?

The night bazaar is an awesome way to spend the evening, buy some cool souvenirs and grab some local food. Chiang Mai also has some great pubs too.

What are the best free things to do in Chiang Mai?

Many of the temples the city is famous for are free or cheap to visit, one you can’t miss that won’t cost a penny is Wat Phan Tao.

What are some fun things to do in Chiang Mai with family?

The whole family will love a day looking after elephants in the ethical Elephant Nature Park.

With rivers, mountains and jungle just outside of the city, Chiang Mai offers visitors access to a world of adventure and breathtaking natural landscapes! The city itself, however, isn’t outshone by these natural wonders: colorful markets, intricate artwork and stunning temples can be found on almost every corner in Chiang Mai.

This incredible combination of nature and culture makes Chiang Mai a winning destination that’s best seen with our expert 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary! From finding you the best place to stay in Chiang Mai to knowing the nearest quality eatery for an impromptu snack, we’ve got all the practical advice you need to make the most out of your trip!

There certainly is a lot to see in, and outside the city: whether it’s gilded Buddhas, royal roses or woven silks, you’ll find it all on our epic 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary!

Have you been to Chiang Mai before? Let us know your experience in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you!

Clair Cathryn

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Chiang Mai Itinerary: How To Spend 3-5 Days In Chiang Mai, Thailand

Posted on Last updated: July 1, 2023

Planning your Chiang Mai itinerary, but not sure where to start? You’ve come to the right place!

Located in the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai is a very popular tourist destination. Chiang Mai offers a huge variety of activities for every type of traveller.

From temples to elephant encounters, or from cooking classes to epic hikes, you can find it all in Chiang Mai! In this guide I’ve outlined everything you need to know to build your perfect Chiang Mai itinerary.

With so much to do, I recommend spending at least three days in Chiang Mai, preferably five.

This itinerary covers first the main attractions that everyone should see, and then explores some options for the extra days depending on your preferences.

So without further ado, let’s dive into the ultimate Chiang Mai itinerary!

• 1 How to get to Chiang Mai
• 2 How to get around Chiang Mai
• 3.1.1 Wat Chiang Man
• 3.1.2 Wat Phra Singh – Golden Temple
• 3.1.3 Wat Chedi Luang
• 3.1.4 Wat Sri Suphan – Silver Temple
• 3.1.5 Wat Suan Dok
• 3.2 Explore the Chiang Mai nightlife!
• 4.1 Explore the Old City
• 4.2 Do a cooking class!
• 5.1 All day visit to Elephant Nature Park
• 5.2 Visit the Night Market
• 6.1 Option 1: Visit the temples of Chiang Rai
• 6.2 Option 2: Visit the canyons and waterfalls of Pai
• 7 Where to stay in Chiang Mai
• 8 What to pack for Chiang Mai

Feeding the elephants at Elephant Green Hill, part of the Elephant Nature Park “saddle-off” project

How to get to Chiang Mai

The easiest way to get to Chiang Mai is by flying from Bangkok . The flight is less than one hour and there are plenty of flights every day, meaning it’s also very affordable.

Alternatively you can also take a train or bus from Bangkok . These are cheaper but take considerably longer, respectively 12 hours for the train and at least 9 hours for the bus.

If you’re not sure how much time you should be spending in Chiang Mai compared to Bangkok, check out this Bangkok vs Chiang Mai guide to help you decide.

Click here to book your transfer from Bangkok to Chiang Mai!

Enjoying the rooftop pool of Le Meridien Chiang Mai

How to get around Chiang Mai

One of the easiest ways to get around Chiang Mai is to rent a scooter. You can a scooter for around 200-250 THB a day, and have full flexibility on where you go and when.

If you’re not comfortable driving a scooter (don’t worry, I’m not either!) you can also use Grab. This is like a Thai version of Uber. You can order a taxi directly from your phone and they’re usually fast, efficient and affordable.

You can also go on organised tours that usually include hotel pick up and drop off, as well as walking around the Old City.

A lot of the main attractions in the Old City are within walking distance, so if you’re centrally located you could just walk everywhere.

We did a combination of Grab, walking and tour transfers. You can also get the traditional tuk-tuks for short journeys!

The Night Market in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai itinerary – Day 1

This Chiang Mai itinerary is based on my own time in Chiang Mai. I spent four nights in Chiang Mai as part of a longer 2-week Thailand trip .

Go temple hunting!

There are lots of beautiful temples dotted all over and around Chiang Mai. No Chiang Mai itinerary would be complete without a bit of temple hopping around the city.

I’ve listed below some of the most beautiful and famous that you should definitely visit, in the most efficient order.

Obviously you can mix and match as you see fit, but this route ticks off the main temples, and avoids you travelling too much back and forth around Chiang Mai.

Wat Chiang Man

Start your temple-hopping day at Wat Chiang Man! This beautiful temple is the oldest in Chiang Mai, established around 1296, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Chiang Mai.

Wat Phra Singh – Golden Temple

Also known as the Golden Temple, Wat Phra Singh is one of the most popular attractions in Chiang Mai. It’s a huge Buddhist temple built in the traditional Lanna style, decorated with beautiful golden chedi.

The interior is even more richly decorated than the outside, making it easy to see why it’s called the Golden Temple. Entrance costs 20 THB.

Wat Chedi Luang – Photo by Kiran Relangi on Scopio

Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple and is famous for its rocky and crumbling look. While it still has a beautiful and ornate architecture, here you won’t find golden pagodas and decorations like in other temples.

Entrance is 40 THB and includes all the little temples in the complex. It’s a very interesting place and you can easily spend a few hours exploring them all.  

Wat Sri Suphan – Silver Temple

The Silver Temple isn’t actually made of silver, it’s only painted with a silver colour, which sparkles on sunny days. There is a 50 THB entrance fee to the temple grounds, however women aren’t allowed inside.

Even just from the outside it’s one of the most distinctive temples you will see. It’s not as big as some of the others you will see around Thailand, but it has a unique style you won’t forget.

The outside of the Silver Temple, Wat Sri Suphan, in Chiang Mai

Wat Suan Dok

Wat Suan Dok is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai, built in the late 14 th century.

It’s characterised by distinctive white and golden chedis and pagodas, which create a beautiful contrast.

I’ve included below a map of the temple route. The total walking time is just over 1 hour so you could do this itinerary on foot if you chose to, as well as on scooter or with Grab.

If you prefer you can also do an organised tour, which will take you to all the most important temples in and around Chiang Mai.

This might work out a bit pricier than renting a scooter or splitting Grabs with friends, but it will be much more comfortable, plus you will have a local guide sharing with you the history of the temples you’re visiting.

I listed below some of the most popular temple tours in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai: Temples & Culture Tour :  This small group takes you to the three main temples in Chiang Mai (Phra Singh, Chedi Luang and Chiang Man) so it’s good for those who don’t want to get “templed out”.

Click here to book your temples & culture tour in Chiang Mai!

Chiang Mai Top Temples & Handicraft Center Private Day Tour :  This tour is a bit more complete, visiting four temples and also a traditional handicraft centre.

Click here to book your temples & handicraft tour in Chiang Mai!

Chiang Mai: Private Tuk Tuk Tour of City Temples With Pickup :  Temples and a tuk-tuk tour? It doesn’t get more iconic Thailand than this!

Click here to book your Chiang Mai tour by tuk tuk!

Wat Suan Dok, photo by We Dream of Travel

Explore the Chiang Mai nightlife!

After a full day exploring temples, you’re probably feeling a little templed-out. It’s a very real feeling, nothing wrong with it, I get it all the time too!

As well as tourists there are lots of expats and digital nomads living in Chiang Mai, meaning it has a very lively nightlife.

You can spend your first night in Chiang Mai watching a Muay Thai match, a drag queen show or singing away in a karaoke bar.

There are also lots of hostels that arrange bra crawls around the Old City centre. The possibilities are endless!

Chiang Mai itinerary – Day 2

Explore the old city.

If you partied too hard on your first night you might need a slow start today, which is why we begin with a simple tour of the Old City!

You saw the temples yesterday, but what about the other cool spots in the Old City of Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is an easy city to explore. If you look at it on a map you can distinctly see the Old City walls surrounding the city centre. This is the area you want to wander around and explore!

You can spend the morning wandering around and seeing the main sights in the Old City, amongst which Thapae Gate, museums, markets and even some temples.

If you don’t fancy walking around alone, you can join a cycling tour with local guide . That way you’re sure you’ll be hitting all the main spots, plus you get to cycle and not walk around!

Click here to book your Chiang Mai Old Town bike tour , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Sunset over Chiang Mai – Photo by Carina Fischer on Scopio

Do a cooking class!

One of the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai is to attend a Thai cooking class . I absolutely love Thai cuisine and was stoked to learn more about how to cook it myself.

We did a half-day cooking class with Grandma’s Cooking School . The half-day classes cost around 1,500 THB and last 4-5 hours (from around 3PM to 8PM), including pick-up and drop off.

During the cooking class we learnt how to make a four-course meal including coconut soup, curry, pad thai and mango sticky rice.

Pad Thai; one of the most traditional, and popular amongst tourists, dishes in Thailand (I made this one!)

Before the class starts you will have the option to choose what type of food to make (vegetarian, fish, spicy, not spicy etc).

The food was delicious and I was pretty surprised I hadn’t messed it up somehow!

Most schools also offer full day tours that include a visit to the local market or around the farm to pick the fresh ingredients.

Personally I think half a day is enough to get the experience, especially if you only have a few days in Chiang Mai.

Click here to book your cooking class in Chiang Mai , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Our guide and chef JoyZaa showing us how to make Pad Thai

Chiang Mai itinerary – Day 3

All day visit to elephant nature park.

Even if you don’t have long in Chiang Mai, I highly recommend doing a full day experience with Elephant Nature Park . Elephant Nature Park is one of the most famous elephant sanctuary and rescue centres.

Here you can get up close to these beautiful animals, in an ethical way. They offer a variety of different tours, but it’s essentially always the same experience.

Click here to book your visit to Elephant Nature Park , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Getting close to the elephants at Elephant Green Hill in Chiang Mai, Thailand

You can spend either half a day or do a full day with these beautiful animals.

You will usually start the day by feeding them, getting to know the elephants, you might walk with them in the surrounding forest, and you can even bathe them.

With the rise of ethical animal encounters in recent years many of the elephant riding centres in Chiang Mai have been converted to the ENP approach. On the Elephant Nature Park you can choose which program to visit.

ENP is the famous one with over 80 elephants, however it can get quite busy. We went to Elephant Green Hill (always part of the ENP project) and were the only three people there with three elephants.

Spending time with the elephants at Elephant Green Hill

The day visit costs 2,500 THB and includes hotel pick up and drop off, and lunch. The tours start around 7:30AM and finish around 5:30PM.

There are other elephant sanctuaries around Thailand that offer similar experiences, however ENP is one of the most famous.

If you visit a different elephant sanctuary make sure to do your research and ensure they don’t mistreat the elephants.

I’ve been to Thailand three times and my day at Elephant Nature Park was amongst the best I’ve had there. It’s a magical experience and one you will always remember fondly.

| READ MORE: WHERE TO SEE ELEPHANTS IN THAILAND | 

Happy elephants bathing at Elephant Green Hill in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Visit the Night Market

After a full day playing with elephants you’re probably knackered, but happy! A great way to end your second day in Chiang Mai is to visit the night market.

The famous and most busy one is the Sunday Night Market. This one has the most stalls by far and will swipe you off your feet with its crazy mix of smells, colours and noises.

However if you’re not in Chiang Mai on a Sunday there are other night bazaars and markets in the area. They’re great spots for an evening walk, a tasty meal from a street food stall and maybe some shopping.

If you’re a bit suspicious of street food and don’t want to risk it (I get it!) I recommend joining a street food market tour, that way you’re sure you’re eating at places that won’t make you sick!

Click here to book your evening local street food market tour in Chiang Mai,   or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

The younger elephant that we spent the day with at Elephant Green Hill

Chiang Mai itinerary – Days 4 & 5

You have now seen most of the main attractions that Chiang Mai has to offer! If you have an extra couple days to spend in the area I definitely recommend going beyond Chiang Mai.

The most popular spots in the area that people visit from Chiang Mai are Chiang Rai and Pai. I’ve outlined below the itinerary for two extra days beyond Chiang Mai, depending on what type of activities you prefer.

If you’re feeling very committed and want to see everything the surroundings of Chiang Mai have to offer you could visit both Chiang Rai and Pai as day trips.

This however would involve a lot of transfer time so I wouldn’t recommend it.

The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai, Thailand, at sunset

Option 1: Visit the temples of Chiang Rai

Many people visit Chiang Rai on a day trip from Chiang Mai . While that’s definitely possible, it means spending 8 hours in a minivan in one day (4 hours to get there and 4 hours back).

If you have the time, I would spend at least one night in Chiang Rai. That will give you the opportunity to break up the travelling and really enjoy the atmosphere of Chiang Rai.

The most famous attractions in Chiang Rai are the Blue White and the White Temple. Even after all the temples I had seen in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, I still found these unique and breath taking.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE CHIANG RAI ITINERARY |

The back of Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple) in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Option 2: Visit the canyons and waterfalls of Pai

If you’ve had enough of temples, which is understandable, you could alternatively spend your final days in Chiang Mai visiting Pai. Pai is around a 3-hour drive from Chiang Mai.

You can visit Pai on a day trip from Chiang Mai , or spend a night there. There are some beautiful temples also in Pai, amongst which the White Buddha, the most famous and striking of them.

However Pai is also famous for its beautiful nature. Here you can go on hikes to beautiful viewpoints like Yun Lai, explore Pai Canyon or visit Pai Waterfalls. It’s the perfect place for a nature escape after lots of time in a city.

Another cool option is doing a day trip to Lampang emerald pool and waterfalls .

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsWPbxugi0x/

Where to stay in Chiang Mai

We stayed in two different places while in Chiang Mai, in different areas and budgets. Here are my recommendations for where to stay in Chiang Mai.

Budget: Leaf Hostel – We stayed at Leaf Hostel since it was close to where our friends were living. It wasn’t a very sociable hostel but the dorms were clean and spacious. There are lots of hostels in Chiang Mai , if you’re looking for a very sociable one I’ve heard fun things about Bodega Chiang Mai Party Hostel.

Click here to book your stay at Leaf Hostel!

Mid-range: POR Thapae Gate – If you don’t fancy a hostel dorm a lovely mid-range option is POR Thapae Gate . Located in the heart of the Old City this hotel has spacious rooms and a pool where you can chill after a long day exploring Chiang Mai.

Click here to book your stay at POR Thapae Gate!

Luxury: Le Meridien Chiang Mai – We spent our last two nights in Chiang Mai at Le Meridien and loved it. It’s within easy walking distance of the night market and Old City, as well as having a rooftop pool with awesome city and mountain views.

Click here to book your stay at Le Meridien Chiang Mai!

Enjoying the sunset from the rooftop pool of Le Meridien in Chiang Mai

What to pack for Chiang Mai

While you don’t need anything special for 3-5 days in Chiang Mai (I have a detailed Thailand packing list if you want more advice on exactly what to pack for a trip to Thailand) there are some essentials you shouldn’t forget.

– A camera – to capture all the beautiful temples and elephants you will see!

– A scarf or sarong to cover your shoulders. There are a lot of temples on this itinerary, and you need to be dressed appropriately for them.

– Loose airy pants – You shouldn’t be visiting temples in shorts, so these are a great way to keep cool and respectful at the same time.

– A spare pair of socks – Some of the temples will ask you to remove your shoes to enter. However the little walk from where you leave your shoes to the inside of the temple can be quite long and burn your feet! If you’re like me and like exploring in sandals make sure to pack socks for when you’re asked to remove your sandals.

– A water bottle – You will find lots of restaurants have water tanks where you can refill your bottle. Perfect way to stay hydrated and reduce plastic consumption!

Walking in the forest with one of the rescued elephants

Final thoughts on the ultimate Chiang Mai itinerary

There you have it, the ultimate Chiang Mai itinerary!

You will want to spend at least three days in Chiang Mai, however if you have a bit more time in your Thailand itinerary and you can stretch it to five days you can go beyond Chiang Mai.

I always wanted to visit Thailand for the beautiful beaches (have you ever heard of the Surin Islands ? They’re beautiful! The Phi Phi Islands and Railay Beach are also stunning!) and incredible diving opportunities .

I never thought that I would have so much fun exploring temples , learning to cook Thai food and playing with elephants.

If you have any questions let me know in the comments below. I hope you find this Chiang Mai 3-5 day itinerary useful in planning your own time in Chiang Mai!

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The 5 best day trips from Chiang Mai

Nov 27, 2023 • 6 min read

Grab a friend and head out on these day trips to explore more of this incredible region © 500px Prime/ Getty Images

Though Chiang Mai has a wealth of attractions to keep visitors busy for days on end, the city’s appeal as a travel destination is enhanced by its location. The "Rose of the North" is situated amidst jungle-blanketed hills and rolling rice fields, where cottage craft industries still thrive and distinct temples dazzle. It’s a world crying out to be explored.

From lakeside pampering in Huay Teung Tao to hilltop hiking around Doi Inthanon, here are five of the best day trips from Chiang Mai .

1. Watch the sunrise at Doi Inthanon, Thailand's best-known national park

Travel time: 2 hours

Taking its name from Thailand ’s tallest peak at 8415ft (2565m),  Doi Inthanon National Park is one of the country's best-known national parks, covering more than 185 sq miles (480 sq km) and home to numerous waterfalls, hiking trails, viewpoints, hill tribe villages and bird species.

It’s kind of a big deal, particularly during the country’s cold season from November through January when temperatures drop at the higher elevations and sometimes even frost appears – a phenomenon that attracts Thai visitors used to sweltering tropical weather. Sometimes it even makes the news.

Doi Inthanon is also one of the few national parks in Thailand that’s easy to drive through, with smooth roads connecting key sites and attractions such as the Kaew Mae Pan Nature Trail. This short but spectacular trail, which requires the help of a local guide (and supplied bamboo hiking sticks), winds through a section of the park’s best landscapes to beautiful viewpoints overlooking the surrounding valleys.

Many people explore Doi Inthanon as a day trip, either on their own or through an organized tour, but you can also stay in basic bungalow accommodations or camp on the mountain overnight to wake up above the clouds.

How to get to Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai: A full-day taxi service including the return journey and different stops around the park, costs around 3000B (around $95). A cheaper option is to hop in a shared songthaew (passenger van) heading in the direction of the park.

2. Graze on delicious Thai food overlooking Huay Teung Tao

Travel time: 30-45 mins

Technically a man-made reservoir, tranquil Huay Teung Tao  is a local haunt for whiling the day away in simple bamboo huts right on the water. It’s particularly popular with families and groups of friends over the weekends and public holidays.

In recent years, there’s been an increase in activities offered around the reservoir, such as ATV riding or paddle boarding, but settling into one of the huts for an afternoon of grazing on local Thai fare and bottles of beer is still the favorite way to "do" Huay Teung Tao. Each hut is tied to a different restaurant, which all offer similar menus, quality and pricing – simply pick a spot, order some food or drinks, and stay as long as you like.

How to get to Huay Teung Tao from Chiang Mai: Just 9 miles (14km) away from the center of Chiang Mai’s old city, along the 121 or "Canal Road," Huay Teung Tao is quick and convenient to get to in a songthaew , by calling a car with the Grab ride-sharing app or with your own set of wheels.

3. Visit traditional artisans in the villages of Bo Sang and San Khampaeng

Travel time: 1.5 hours for both

Chiang Mai has long been a handicrafts hub, known for its experts in the disciplines of wood carving, silversmithing, weaving and more. Today, skilled artisans still practice many of these traditional arts and crafts and, as a result, you can find many unique, handmade souvenirs for purchase around the city and in its myriad markets, from baskets and furniture to jewelry and ceramics.

But for the optimum choice of authentic souvenirs, head east out of town on Highway 1006, also known as the "handicraft highway," to reach the small villages of Bo Sang and San Khampaeng. While Bo Sang serves as a center for umbrella and paper-making, San Khampaeng specializes in textile and ceramic items. Many workshops and showrooms are on the main road or marked with signs pointing the way.

For a contrasting look at Thailand’s art and handicrafts, stop by the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum , just a couple of miles from Bo Sang, to take in exhibitions showcasing contemporary Thai artists. Alternatively, if furniture and home decor are more to your taste, go south of Chiang Mai city toward Hang Dong to the woodcarving village of  Ban Tawai .

How to get to Bo Sang and San Khampaeng from Chiang Mai: White songthaews depart for Bo Sang from near Warorot Market in Chiang Mai. Otherwise, taxis and Grab cars are readily available, which are also the best option for reaching Ban Tawai.

4. Photograph the incredible White Temple and Black House

Travel time: 3.5 hours for both

Though a little taxing as a day trip, if you have limited time and won’t make it to neighboring Chiang Rai Province  as part of your travels in Thailand, it is possible to see two of the region’s most beloved sites – Wat Rong Khun and Baandam – in one day from Chiang Mai.

Commonly known in English as the White Temple (though it is not actually a place of worship), Wat Rong Khun was the brainchild of contemporary Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Quirky is perhaps the best way to describe the glittering white complex, with visitors having to walk past a sea of yearning arms (symbolizing desire) to reach the temple’s interior, where trippy murals that include images of actor Keanu Reeves and Superman adorn the walls.

Nearby, Baandam, meaning "Black House," is another otherworldly creation, this time from the mind of Chiang Rai-born artist Thawan Duchanee. Unlike the sparkling Wat Rong Khun, Baandam’s sprawling collection of structures, sculptures and gardens feature dark teak wood, dead animal parts and macabre arrangements. Both white and black complexes will likely live long in the memory – or potentially nightmares – of visitors.

How to get to the White Temple and Black House from Chiang Mai: Rent a car to do the journey or look for one of several package tours to the temples that will likely pick you up from your hotel by 8am and return to Chiang Mai in the evening around 8pm. If you want to go it alone, inexpensive buses run regularly from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. 

5. Do the Samoeng Loop on a motorbike tour

Travel time: 2.5 hours

You can’t visit Chiang Mai without getting out into its surrounding hills. For those comfortable on two wheels, the 62-mile-long (100km) 'Samoeng Loop' is a hit with locals and tourists alike, especially on the weekends and in the dry, cooler season.

Driving straight through will take you around 2.5 hours. However, throughout the route there are plenty of places to stop off, including the Nam Tok Mae Sa , a scenic – though sometimes busy – tiered waterfall that’s good for swimming, and Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens , a huge, manicured green space bursting with exotic flowers, so plan for four hours or more. Though you could do the loop with a car and driver, it’s the journey itself – experiencing the air rushing by your face and taking in 360-degree views – that’s the drive’s main draw.

Scooter rentals are available from a number of operators in Chiang Mai or consider an organized motorcycle tour around the loop.

How to get to the Samoeng Loop from Chiang Mai:  Start by driving north out of town on Highway 107 to Mae Rim and then turn left onto Highway 1096. This will take you climbing up into the hills, passing small rustic restaurants, strawberry fields, Royal Project agriculture initiatives, and views of the valley before reaching the small village of Samoeng. Turn left onto Highway 1296 to start looping back towards Chiang Mai.

This article was first published Sep 25, 2019 and updated Nov 27, 2023.

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Here’s Why You Should Travel To Chiang Mai, Thailand

W hen it comes to  Thai destinations , Bangkok often steals the spotlight with its busy streets, neon-lit nightlife, and the ever-present hum of activity. But hold on to your Tuk Tuks because there’s a gem up north quietly asserting itself as the preferred choice for discerning travelers—Chiang Mai. Step aside, Bangkok, and make room for the city that effortlessly serves cultural richness, natural beauty, and a laid-back vibe.

Bangkok is like that energetic friend who  never sleeps , always has a story to tell, and thrives in chaos. But if you’re looking for something more zen, with a side of history and tradition, Chiang Mai is the understated hero you didn’t know you needed.

The Tempo Of Life In Chiang Mai

Everything is always in a constant state of flux in Bangkok. Chiang Mai, on the other hand, moves to its own beat. The city embraces a slower, more contemplative rhythm. Imagine trading the sounds of horns and engines for the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant chime of temple bells. 

Bangkok has its share of impressive temples, but Chiang Mai takes the cake regarding architectural elegance and spiritual ambiance. A maze of ancient temples dot the old city, each bearing witness to a past era. Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Chiang Man are more than simply names; they are portals to different times.

Unique Flavors Of Chiang Mai Cuisine

Arguably one of the most crucial aspects of any trip is the food. Undoubtedly, Bangkok is a foodie’s paradise, but Chiang Mai adds its distinct flavors to the mix. The city is renowned for its delectable Khao Soi, a coconut curry noodle soup that will surely leave a lasting impression. 

And if you think Pad Thai is the pinnacle of Thai cuisine, wait until you’ve savored the  gastronomic delights  of Chiang Mai’s night markets. Street food vendors line the streets, offering everything from spicy sausages to crispy fried insects for the more adventurous palate.

The Impressive Environment

While Bangkok’s skyline is a testament to urban development, Chiang Mai boasts a diverse and breathtaking landscape. The nearby mountains offer a refreshing escape from the city buzz, with opportunities for trekking, zip-lining, and meeting elephants in more ethical settings than Bangkok’s often controversial animal attractions.

The city also lays claim to the elusive “cool season” in Thailand. If you’ve ever visited Bangkok during the scorching heat, you’ll appreciate the cooler temperatures of Chiang Mai, especially from November to February. It’s like nature’s way of saying, “Hey, you deserve a break from that relentless heat. Come chill with us up north.”

Chiang Mai’s Festivals

Chiang Mai’s Yi Peng Lantern Festival is a spectacle that puts even Bangkok’s New Year celebrations to shame. Imagine a city bathed in a warm light as thousands of lanterns illuminate the night sky. It’s a hypnotic visual treat, providing a unique experience you won’t find in the bustling streets of Bangkok.