Welcome to the best things to do in Chiang Mai!
Located in northern Thailand, the city of Chiang Mai boasts rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
It’s a popular destination for travelers looking to immerse in Thai culture and explore the city’s temples, markets, and cuisine.
It’s one of my favorite places I’ve visited so far, and I could easily spend weeks here.
To help you make the most of your trip, I’ve put together this post about the best things to do in Chiang Mai!
Let’s dive in.
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Chiang Mai Essentials
Top Tours & Experiences In Chiang Mai
- Thai and Akha Cooking Class
- Doi Inthanon National Park, Waterfall & Royal Project
- Chiang Rai: Small Group Day Trip with Golden Triangle
- Small Group Chiang Mai Evening Street Food Tour
- Sunrise City Views, Doi Suthep Temple
Where To Stay In Chiang Mai
- Hidden Garden Hostel ($)
- Paraiso Hotel ($$) – This is where I stayed! It was well-designed, affordable, and centrally located.
- Aksara Heritage ($$)
- Le Meridien ($$$)
- 137 Pillars House ($$$$)
How To Get Around Chiang Mai
The best way to get around Chiang Mai is by walking, taxi, or Grab.
Grab is basically the Asian version of Uber.
Just download the Grab app, and it makes calling for rides a breeze.
1. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is considered one of the most important temples in Chiang Mai, and it’s definitely worth visiting while you’re in the city.
The temple is perched on a hill overlooking the city, and the views from the top are spectacular.
The temple complex houses several buildings, including a large pagoda that’s said to contain a relic of the Buddha’s shoulder bone.
The architecture of the temple is a beautiful example of Lanna-style design, with intricate carvings and gold accents.
Visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep can be a spiritual experience as well, as many locals and tourists come to the temple to pay their respects, light incense, and make offerings to the Buddha.
Because it’s a place of worship, make sure to dress in proper temple attire when you visit.
This means covering shoulders and knees, and avoiding wearing tight or revealing clothing.
To get to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, you can take a songthaew (a red shared taxi) from Chiang Mai city to the base of the mountain.
From there, you can either take a funicular or climb the 309-step staircase to reach the temple at the top of the mountain.
The journey takes about 30-40 minutes and entry costs around 50-60 baht per person.
Or, you can book a private tour or hire a taxi for a more convenient and personalized experience.
I recommend this Sunrise City Views, Doi Suthep Temple tour.
Click here to check availability on Viator.
2. Explore Chiang Mai Old City
Chiang Mai Old City is a historic area in the center of Chiang Mai.
It’s surrounded by a moat and remnants of a medieval wall, and was once the center of the ancient Lanna Kingdom.
The Old City is home to lots of ancient temples and is known for its vibrant street markets, shops, and restaurants.
Some popular temples to visit include Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang.
The Old City is best explored on foot or by Grab, as most Grabs within the Old City only cost only a few dollars.
I recommend starting out at a great cafe or temple in the morning, and simply walking around taking in the sights!
3. Stay at Chai Lai Orchid
Chai Lai Orchid is an eco-lodge and elephant sanctuary located in the mountains near Chiang Mai.
Staying here is a total bucket list experience, and I highly recommend it!
You can stay in rustic bungalows, go on jungle treks, participate in traditional hill tribe experiences, and interact with elephants in a humane and sustainable way.
Waking up to daily “elephant room service,” which meant feeding the elephants right from our cabin, was one of the highlights of our Thailand trip.
Not only that, all of the lodge’s profits go towards empowering local women and providing education and resources for the surrounding communities.
The Chai Lai Orchid is known for its dedication to ethical tourism practices and responsible elephant tourism, making it a must-see if you want to make a positive impact while exploring Thailand.
Just make sure to reserve your stay well in advance!
This place has completely blown up on social media, and cabins are very limited.
In the high season, be prepared for everything to be booked 6 months out.
Find more information on the Chai Lai Orchid website.
4. Try Khao Soi
Khao Soi is a classic Northern Thai dish made from a coconut-based curry soup served with egg noodles, and chicken or beef.
It’s then topped with ingredients like crispy noodles, lime, pickled mustard greens, and shallots.
It has a rich and spicy flavor and is a must-try for anyone visiting Chiang Mai or Northern Thailand.
One of the best places to try Khao Soi in Chiang Mai is at Khao Soi Arak.
This unassuming restaurant is tucked away on a quiet street, and easy to miss.
But it’s totally worth the visit, for one of the best authentic meals we had in Thailand, at an insanely affordable price.
5. Admire latte art at Ristr8to
If you’re a coffee lover, Ristr8to is an absolute must-visit.
This specialty coffee shop serves hands-down the best coffee in Chiang Mai.
Ristr8to has won numerous awards and has been featured in various coffee publications.
Not only that, they’ve won the World Latte Art Championship three times in a row.
Their baristas are known for their creativity and skill, creating beautiful and intricate latte designs including unicorns and foxes.
The owners, who are passionate about coffee, source beans from around the world and roast them in-house to ensure the highest quality.
They offer a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte, as well as unique creations like their signature “Ristretto Blossom” drink, which is made with espresso, honey, and orange zest.
The shop has a sleek and modern design, making it a popular spot for coffee lovers and Instagrammers alike.
There are now two locations in Chiang Mai to visit: Ristr8to Original and Ristr8to Lab.
6. Explore Nimmanhaemin
Nimmanhaemin, also known as Nimman, is Chiang Mai’s trendiest neighborhood.
It’s known for its aesthetic coffee shops, boutique stores, art galleries, and trendy restaurants.
In addition to its shops and eateries, Nimman is also home to several co-working spaces and digital nomad hubs, making it popular for remote workers and expats.
For upscale shopping, head to One Nimman, a beautiful open-air mall.
The mall features a mix of high-end boutiques, galleries, chic restaurants, and live events.
Don’t miss the street vendors outside of One Nimman, who sell some of the cutest clothes and goodies I found in Thailand.
If you’ve eaten your fill of Thai food and need something different, head to Pizza My Heart which serves delicious pizzas with fantastic atmosphere.
Coffee lovers shouldn’t miss Ristr8to Lab, which is insanely Instagrammable and serves Chiang Mai’s best coffee.
Spending a day exploring Nimman is definitely one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai.
7. Get a massage
I think every trip to Thailand should include as many massages as possible!
They’re so relaxing, and so much more affordable than massages in the States.
I’m personally not a fan of Thai massages, because they include a lot of stretching movements that I don’t enjoy.
So I always opt for the “back and shoulder” massages, which are more my style.
There are so many great massage places in Chiang Mai, but I had an amazing experience at Da Massage.
It’s tucked away on a quiet street, with a little garden out front.
My massage was wonderful, and even included some hot tea and cookies afterwards.
8. Go temple hopping
Visiting temples in Chiang Mai is one of the best ways to experience the city’s rich history and culture.
With over 300 temples scattered throughout the city, there is no shortage of stunning architecture and intricate artwork to explore.
The temples offer a glimpse into the city’s past, with many of them dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries.
Not only are the temples impressive from an architectural standpoint, but they also offer a peaceful atmosphere that provides a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Wat Phra Singh
Wat Phra Singh is one of the most important and visited temples in Chiang Mai.
The temple was built in 1345 and named after the Phra Buddha Sihing image it houses, which is one of the most revered Buddha images in Thailand.
Wat Chedi Luang
Wat Chedi Luang was built in the 14th century and was originally 80 meters tall, making it one of the tallest structures in ancient Chiang Mai.
However, after several earthquakes and wars, the height of the chedi was reduced to its current height of about 60 meters.
One of the most notable features of the temple is the massive chedi, which is partially ruined but still impressive.
Wat Lok Moli
Wat Lok Moli was built in the late 14th century, and is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai.
The temple is notable for its beautiful Lanna-style architecture, which is a distinctive style of Northern Thailand.
One of the most striking features of Wat Lok Moli is its impressive chedi.
Wat Rajamontean
This is a lesser-visited temple, located across the street from Wat Lok Moli.
I think it’s one of the most photogenic temples in Chiang Mai, especially around sunset.
Wat Rajamontean is said to have been built during the reign of King Mengrai in the 13th century.
One of the main attractions at Wat Rajamontean is the impressive ubosot (ordination hall), which is adorned with intricate carvings and gold-leaf decorations.
9. Explore Chiang Mai’s cafe scene
Chiang Mai has become known as a hub for cafe culture, for a few reasons.
These include the city’s mountainous location where coffee grows, the availability of high-quality locally-sourced ingredients, the presence of a large expat community.
Many cafes in Chiang Mai also place a strong emphasis on design and atmosphere, creating spaces that are not only great for enjoying a cup of coffee but also for relaxing, working, or socializing.
Here are some of the best and most Instagrammable cafes in Chiang Mai:
Fern Forest Cafe
Fern Forest Cafe is a charming and cozy cafe in The Old City.
It’s nestled among lush greenery and has a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.
You would never even know you’re in the middle of a bustling city.
Fern Forest Cafe’s menu features a variety of freshly brewed coffee and tea, along with a range of delicious baked goods, sandwiches, and brunch dishes.
Some popular items on the menu include the fluffy pancakes, avocado toast, and (delicious) smoothie bowls.
Chom Cafe
Chom Cafe is situated in a traditional Thai-style wooden house surrounded by a lush garden, giving it a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
One of the highlights of Chom Cafe is its outdoor seating area, which is perfect for enjoying the beautiful surroundings while sipping on a refreshing drink.
Cafe No. 39
Cafe No. 39 features a minimalist design with clean lines and plenty of natural light.
Its outdoor patio houses a vibrant blue pond, surrounded by lush greenery and a relaxing atmosphere.
10. Take a day trip to Chiang Rai
Taking a day trip to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai is one of the best things to do because it allows you to explore some of the most beautiful and unique attractions in Northern Thailand.
Chiang Rai is about a 3 hour drive from Chiang Mai and is home to the famous White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun.
This stunning temple was designed by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, and is unlike any other temple in Thailand.
Chiang Rai is also home to the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet, and the Black House (Baan Dam Museum), which showcases the artwork of Thai artist Thawan Duchanee.
A day trip to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of Northern Thailand.
I took this guided tour, which included pick-up and drop off.
Click here to check availability on Viator.
11. Take a cooking class
Taking a cooking class in Chiang Mai is one of the best things to do as it allows you to learn about Thai cuisine in a hands-on way.
Northern Thailand is famous for its flavorful and aromatic dishes, and the cooking classes provide a unique opportunity to learn the secrets of these delicious dishes from experienced Thai chefs.
During the classes, you can learn about the various herbs and spices used in Thai cooking, and how to balance the flavors in each dish.
Overall, taking a cooking class in Chiang Mai is a fun and educational experience that allows you to immerse yourself in Thai culture through its food.
I recommend this Thai and Akha Cooking Class.
Click here to check availability on Viator.
12. Visit Buatong Waterfall
Buatong Waterfall, also known as the Sticky Waterfall, is a unique natural attraction located near Chiang Mai.
Unlike other waterfalls, Buatong Waterfall’s limestone surface is rough and creates a natural grip for you to climb up the waterfall.
You can enjoy the clear, cool waters of the waterfall and climb up the tiers to experience the stunning views of the surrounding forest.
The climb is relatively easy, making it a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.
In addition to the waterfall itself, Buatong Waterfall is surrounded by lush forests and nature trails, making it a great spot for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Thailand.
13. Explore Doi Inthanon National Park
Exploring Doi Inthanon National Park is one of the best outdoorsy things to do in Chiang Mai.
This scenic natural wonderland is about a 1.5 hour drive from Chiang Mai.
It’s named after the highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon, which stands at an elevation of 2,565 meters (8,415 feet) above sea level.
Doi Inthanon National Park is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, which includes waterfalls, forests, and mountain ranges.
The park has several hiking trails that offer a chance to explore the stunning landscape.
One of the most popular is the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, which leads to a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
I recommend this Doi Inthanon National Park, Waterfall & Royal Project tour, which includes all of your transportation and a lunch.
Click here to check availability on Viator.
14. Sample all the street food
Chiang Mai is a food lover’s paradise, especially when it comes to street food.
The city is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, with a wide range of savory and sweet treats available at almost every turn.
One street food vendor you can’t miss is Cowboy Hat Lady.
Featured in Anthony Bourdain’s “Parts Unknown,” Cowboy Hat Lady, or “Khao Kha Moo Chang Phueak” in Thai, is a legendary street food vendor in Chiang Mai.
She’s best known for her delicious braised pork leg served with rice.
She operates a small food cart located near Chang Phueak Gate, and has been serving her famous dish for over 30 years.
If you want to truly eat like a local, I highly recommend taking this Small Group Chiang Mai Evening Street Food Tour.
Click here to check availability on Viator.
15. Experience the Yi Peng Lantern Festival
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival is a major annual event in Chiang Mai.
It usually takes place during the full moon of the twelfth lunar month, which typically falls in November. The festival is a celebration of gratitude, as well as a time to make wishes for the future.
The highlight of the festival is the release of thousands of floating lanterns into the sky, which creates a breathtakingly beautiful scene.
The tradition of releasing lanterns is believed to bring good luck and symbolize the release of negative thoughts or feelings.
People write their wishes or prayers on the lanterns before releasing them into the sky.
In addition to the lanterns, there are other activities during the festival, like parades, performances, and food markets.
It’s important to note that the Yi Peng Lantern Festival is a cultural event, and visitors are expected to be respectful and mindful of local customs and traditions.
While the festival has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years, it’s important to understand the cultural significance of the event and not treat it solely as a photo opportunity.
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