70+ researched attractions - from ancient temples and vibrant markets to mountain adventures and cultural experiences
Modern 5-story shopping center in the heart of Nimman area. Features international brands (Uniqlo, H&M, Boots), Major Cineplex cinema, Gourmet Market supermarket, and rooftop restaurant with mountain views. Popular with digital nomads and expats. Excellent food court with Thai and international options.
Largest shopping mall in Northern Thailand with over 300 stores across 7 floors. Houses Central Department Store, Robinson, Supersports, Power Buy electronics, and branches of major Thai banks. SF Cinema, ice skating rink, karaoke, and extensive food halls. Free shuttle bus from Nimman area.
Upscale open-air lifestyle mall in Nimman with emphasis on dining, cafes, and boutique shops. Features premium restaurants like The Salad Concept, After You Dessert Cafe, and local designer boutiques. Beautiful contemporary Lanna architecture with multiple courtyards and outdoor seating. Instagram-worthy design.
One of Chiang Mai's oldest malls (1982), recently renovated. Central Department Store, Tops supermarket, Major Cineplex, and good selection of local and Thai chain stores. More budget-friendly than MAYA. Excellent food court on 4th floor. Popular with locals. Directly connected to Lotus's (formerly Tesco Lotus).
Open-air resort-style mall near airport with water features, gardens, and relaxed atmosphere. Mix of retail (Uniqlo, Jaspal, Greyhound), dining (Bonchon Chicken, Fuji, Santa Fe), and entertainment (SFX Cinema). Robinson department store anchor. Large parking. Popular with families. Less crowded than city center malls.
Hip outdoor shopping and dining complex in Nimman featuring independent cafes, restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. Known for its colorful street art, craft beer bars (The Larder Cafe & Bar), and creative spaces. More of a lifestyle hangout than traditional mall. Evening scene popular with young locals and expats.
Chiang Mai's most famous and extensive night market, stretching 1km through the Old City. Over 1,000 vendors selling handicrafts, art, clothing, accessories, and street food. Road closes to traffic. Live music, temple grounds with performances, and incredible food stalls. Arrive by 5 PM to avoid peak crowds. Absolutely unmissable experience showcasing northern Thai craftsmanship.
Slightly less crowded alternative to Sunday market with similar offerings. Known for silver crafts (Wualai is the traditional silversmith district). Over 500 stalls along 600m road. More local feel, fewer tourists. Excellent hill tribe handicrafts and vintage items. Several massage shops along route. Great food zone near Chiang Mai Gate.
Permanent night market operating 365 days a year since 1970s. Three main buildings (Night Bazaar, Ploen Ruedee Night Market, Kalare Night Bazaar) plus street vendors. Mix of souvenirs, clothing, handicrafts (more touristy than weekend markets). Famous for Khantoke dinner shows. Convenient location near hotels. Bargain hard here.
Chiang Mai's largest and oldest local market (since 1910). Four-story building packed with wholesale goods, textiles, dried foods, spices, flowers, and northern specialties. Minimal tourists, authentic local experience. First floor: fresh produce, flowers, meat. Second floor: clothing, fabrics, bedding. Third floor: more clothing. Chaotic but fascinating. Best in morning.
Weekend market with mix of fresh produce, street food, plants, pets, secondhand goods, and vintage items. Similar vibe to Bangkok's Chatuchak but much smaller. Good for antiques, vintage clothing, local food, and plants. Less touristy. Popular with locals shopping for home goods. Early morning best for fresh produce, afternoons for browsing.
Authentic morning market famous for northern Thai breakfast foods. Locals come for fresh produce, prepared foods, and ready-to-eat northern specialties. Must-try: khao kha moo (pork leg rice), nam ngiaw (spicy pork noodle soup), sai oua (Lanna sausage). No tourists. Indoor/outdoor mix. Cash only. Closes by early afternoon.
Well-organized local market popular with expats for fresh produce, organic options, and quality meats. Clean, less chaotic than Warorot. Good for weekly grocery shopping. Butcher sections with beef, pork, chicken. Some English spoken. Reasonable prices. Recently renovated with better facilities. Air-conditioned sections. Parking available.
Chiang Mai's most sacred temple, housing Buddha relic on mountain overlooking city. Climb 309 steps (or take tram) to reach golden chedi surrounded by intricate murals and Buddha statues. Stunning 360-degree views of Chiang Mai valley. Best visited early morning or sunset. Often combined with Bhubing Palace visit (winter residence of Thai royal family).
Massive ruined chedi originally 80m tall (reduced to 42m after 1545 earthquake). Once housed the Emerald Buddha. Beautiful Lanna architecture with naga staircases and elephant sculptures. Evening monk chats program (Mon-Sat 5:30-7 PM) offers cultural exchange. Active temple with daily ceremonies. City pillar shrine on grounds.
Highest ranking temple in Chiang Mai housing the revered Phra Singh Buddha image. Exquisite Lai Kham chapel with intricate murals depicting northern Thai life in 19th century. Classic Lanna architecture with golden chedi. Very active temple with constant ceremonies. Songkran festival headquarters. Beautiful grounds with multiple viharns.
Oldest temple in Chiang Mai, founded by King Mengrai when city was established. Houses two very important ancient Buddha images: Phra Sila (marble) and Phra Satang Man (crystal), both over 1,800 years old. Chedi supported by 15 elephant sculptures. Peaceful, less touristy atmosphere. Beautiful teak library building.
Unique forest temple with underground tunnels containing ancient Buddha images and inscriptions. Peaceful wooded setting with lake for feeding fish and birds. English dharma teachings posted throughout grounds. Large fasting Buddha statue. Meditation retreats offered. Much less touristy. Perfect for contemplative visit. Bring flashlight for tunnels.
Often overlooked gem with stunning brick and stucco chedi in classic Lanna style. Less touristy than major temples. Royal tomb site. Beautiful wooden ordination hall. Peaceful atmosphere for contemplation. Easy to combine with Old City temple walking tour. Active monastery with resident monks.
Entirely teak wood temple with beautiful craftsmanship. Former residence of monks from Wat Chedi Luang. Peacock motifs (symbol of Mon kingdom) carved throughout. Stunning during Loi Krathong festival when grounds lit with thousands of lanterns. Small but photogenic. Often overshadowed by neighboring Wat Chedi Luang.
Royal temple housing ashes of Lanna royal family in white chedis. Beautiful open-sided ordination hall with massive bronze Buddha. Monk chat program (Mon-Fri 1-3 PM) for cultural exchange with English-speaking monks. Active Buddhist university on grounds. Sunset photography spot. Spacious, peaceful grounds.
Hillside temple with 17-meter tall seated Buddha visible from across city. Pre-dates Chiang Mai's founding by 600 years. Beautiful mountain setting with views. Less touristy. Prayer bells line pathways. Popular with locals making merit. Believed to grant wishes. Easier access than Doi Suthep with shorter climb.
Hidden jungle temple on Monk's Trail to Doi Suthep. Abandoned then restored, now peaceful meditation spot with moss-covered ruins, waterfalls, and forest setting. Reached via 3km hiking trail from Chiang Mai University or short drive. Magical atmosphere. Instagram famous. Bring water and mosquito repellent. Can hike up, visit, then continue to Doi Suthep.
Unique temple with distinctive seven-pointed chedi modeled after Indian Mahabodhi Temple. Beautiful stucco relief sculptures on exterior walls depicting celestial beings. UNESCO World Heritage consideration. Peaceful gardens. Site of 8th World Buddhist Council (1477). Less visited, very tranquil. Excellent for photography.
Entirely covered in silver and aluminum with intricate Buddhist and zodiac engravings. Located in traditional silversmith district. Monk chat sessions Saturday evenings. Main chapel restricted to men only (women can view from outside). Stunning at night when illuminated. Working monks craft silver items onsite. Unique in Thailand.
Home to Thailand's highest peak (2,565m) with cool climate year-round (10-15°C). Features stunning twin King & Queen pagodas, Wachirathan and Sirithan waterfalls, hill tribe villages, Royal Agricultural Station, and Ang Ka Nature Trail through cloud forest. Full-day tours recommended. Bring jacket.
Unique limestone waterfall where mineral deposits create grippy surface allowing visitors to climb UP the falls barefoot. Three tiers totaling 100m height. Natural wonder. Best during rainy season (May-November) for water flow. Changing rooms and basic facilities available. Can get slippery near water.
Popular 8-tier waterfall with easy 30-minute hiking trail through forest. Multiple swimming spots at different levels. Picnic areas with shelters. Can combine with nearby attractions: Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, Mae Sa Elephant Camp, or Snake Farm. Family-friendly. Best water flow July-November.
Scenic reservoir surrounded by mountains, popular for picnicking and relaxation. Rent bamboo huts on water (฿100-300) with Thai cushions. Order food and drinks from lakeside restaurants. Paddle boats and kayaks available. Beautiful mountain backdrop. Peaceful atmosphere. Popular weekend spot for locals. Swimming allowed.
Mountain viewpoint and agricultural project at 1,400m elevation with panoramic valley views, flower gardens, and cool climate. Royal Project growing strawberries, tomatoes, ornamental plants. Camping available (฿500). Sunrise popular with photographers. Simple restaurants serving strawberry products. Can get cold (bring jacket).
Former quarry turned adventure park with turquoise water-filled canyon. Activities include cliff jumping (3m-7m heights), inflatable obstacle course, kayaking, and bamboo rafts. Restaurant and bar onsite. Popular with young travelers. Must wear life jacket. Small beach area. Safe and well-managed. Can rent lockers.
1,000+ acres of gardens featuring tropical plants, orchid conservatory, canopy walkway (400m, 20m high), glasshouse complex, and research facilities. Beautiful landscaping with themed areas. Educational and peaceful. Allow 2-3 hours. Restaurant onsite. Great for families and plant enthusiasts. Part of Mae Sa Valley attractions.
261 km² protected area surrounding Chiang Mai with numerous trails, waterfalls, Hmong villages, and Bhubing Palace (open Jan-Feb). Monk's Trail to Wat Pha Lat popular hike. Camping allowed at designated sites. Over 300 bird species. Multiple entrance points. Cool climate at higher elevations.
Dramatic rock formations created by soil erosion forming canyon with 30m-high pillars and cliffs. Natural geological wonder. Short walking trails through formations. Photography paradise. Remote location means fewer visitors. Can combine with elephant sanctuary or Doi Inthanon. Bring sun protection. 30-minute walk from parking.
Scenic reservoir with floating bamboo raft houses for overnight stays (฿500-1,500). Peaceful mountain lake setting. Activities include swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing. Rustic accommodations (no electricity, bathroom facilities). Restaurants serve fresh fish. Popular escape from city. Book floating house in advance.
Hippie mountain town famous for stunning scenery, waterfalls, hot springs, Pai Canyon, and relaxed vibe. 762 curves on mountain road (motion sickness common). Great for 2-3 day trips. Activities: explore canyons, visit waterfalls (Mo Paeng, Pam Bok), hot springs, Chinese village (Santichon), walking street market. Backpacker hub with hostels, cafes, and reggae bars.
Visit the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), Black House Museum (Baan Dam), and Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos, Myanmar meet. Long day trip or overnight. White Temple free entry but crowded. Golden Triangle opium museum. Chiang Rai city pleasant for exploring. Can extend to include Laos border crossing.
World-famous ethical elephant sanctuary founded by Lek Chailert. Home to 80+ rescued elephants. Full-day program includes feeding, mud spa, river bathing, learning rescue stories. Strict no-riding policy. Vegetarian lunch included. Book 2-3 weeks ahead. Also rescues dogs, cats, buffalo. Emotional and educational experience. Single-day or week-long volunteer programs available.
Thailand's highest peak (2,565m) with stunning twin pagodas (King & Queen), multiple waterfalls (Wachirathan, Sirithan), hill tribe villages, Royal Agricultural Station, and cloud forest nature trail. Full-day recommended. Cool climate requires jacket. Can combine with coffee plantation visits and local markets. Best sunrise/sunset views.
Epic motorcycle/car road trip through mountains, rice fields, and ethnic villages. Route: Chiang Mai → Mae Chaem → Mae Hong Son → Pai → Chiang Mai. Highlights: Doi Kong Mu temple, Pang Ung lake, Su Tong Pae bamboo bridge, fish cave temple, hot springs. Famous for 1,864 curves. Experienced riders only. Best November-February.
Thailand's 3rd highest mountain (2,175m) with extensive cave system containing Buddhist shrines and stalagmites. Cave tour ฿40 (lantern guide optional ฿100). Mountain climb for experienced trekkers (2-day trip, guide required). Nearby hot springs and strawberry farms. Less touristy than other attractions. Combine with countryside exploration.
Ancient city predating Chiang Mai, famous for Wat Phra That Hariphunchai temple with 46m golden chedi. Less touristy. Visit on Friday for famous lamyai (longan) market. Beautiful tree-lined road connecting to Chiang Mai. Can combine with pottery village, weaving communities. Half-day trip. National Museum showcases Hariphunchai Kingdom history.
Traditional handicraft villages specializing in wood carving (Baan Tawai), silk weaving, umbrella making, silverware, and ceramics (San Kamphaeng). Buy directly from workshops at wholesale prices. Watch artisans at work. Popular for furniture shopping and shipping. Can visit both in one day. Bargaining expected.
November 4-5, 2025 (tentative, follows lunar calendar)
Chiang Mai's most iconic festival where thousands of lanterns (khom loi) are released into night sky, creating magical scene. Coincides with Loi Krathong. Main organized event at Mae Jo University (must book months ahead). Free lantern releases at Ping River and temples. Book accommodation 6+ months early. Magical experience.
February 7-9, 2025 (first weekend of February)
Annual 3-day festival celebrating Chiang Mai's flower industry. Grand parade with elaborate flower floats, flower exhibitions, beauty pageants, cultural performances, and sales of plants and flowers. Buak Hat Park main venue. Best photo opportunities during Saturday parade. Cool season means peak blooms.
April 13-15, 2025
World's biggest water fight celebration. Streets become battleground with water guns, buckets, and hoses. Traditional alms-giving to monks, sand pagoda building at temples, and parades. Tha Pae Gate and moat area most intense. Nimman area for party scene. Protect electronics! Banks close 3-4 days. Accommodation books far ahead.
December 2025 (exact dates TBA)
Annual design and creative festival showcasing local and international designers, architects, and artists. Exhibitions, workshops, talks, pop-up markets, and installations throughout city. Focus on sustainable design and northern Thai craftsmanship. Week-long celebration of creativity. Growing international attendance.
November 4-5, 2025 (same as Yi Peng)
Festival of lights where krathongs (floating baskets made of banana leaves, flowers, candles) are floated on rivers to pay respect to water goddess. Happens same time as Yi Peng but focuses on floating offerings on water rather than sky lanterns. Beautiful evening atmosphere along Ping River with food stalls and performances.
December 2025 (exact dates TBA)
Free outdoor jazz festival at Tha Pae Gate featuring local and international jazz musicians. Multiple stages with continuous performances throughout evening. Food and craft vendors. Relaxed atmosphere with lawn seating. Has been annual event but check current status. Great way to experience Chiang Mai's music scene.
Learn to cook authentic Thai dishes at organic farms or cooking schools. Typically includes market visit, 5-7 dish preparation, recipe booklet, lunch/dinner. Popular dishes: Pad Thai, Green Curry, Som Tam, Tom Yum. Small groups. Most schools offer vegetarian options. Great cultural experience.
Thailand's longest and highest zipline course through rainforest canopy. 33 platforms, 3km of ziplines up to 800m long, including Thailand's longest single zipline at 1km. Abseil stations, sky bridges, spiral staircases. Professional safety certified. Includes lunch and hotel transfer. Weight limit 125kg.
Train authentic Muay Thai with experienced fighters. Drop-in classes or monthly memberships. Beginners welcome. Includes pad work, bag work, technique training, sparring (optional). Some gyms offer accommodation packages. Great workout and cultural experience. Morning and evening sessions.
World-class limestone sport climbing 40 minutes from Chiang Mai. 150+ routes from beginner (5a) to advanced (8b). All equipment provided including shoes, harness, helmet, ropes. UIAA certified guides. Multi-pitch routes available. Beautiful mountain scenery. Courses for all levels including intro lessons.
Visit hill tribe coffee plantations in mountains. Learn about coffee cultivation, processing, roasting. Sample fresh coffee. Support ethical fair-trade practices. Some tours include lunch and village visits. Best combined with temple or nature tours. Popular: Doi Chaang (Akha), Doi Inthanon coffee villages.
Explore countryside, rice fields, villages, and mountain trails by bike. Routes for all fitness levels from easy countryside to challenging single track. Quality mountain bikes, helmets, support vehicle. Stops at temples, markets, local workshops. Small groups with English guides. Some tours include lunch.
Exciting Class III-IV rapids on Mae Taeng River. 8km rafting route taking 1.5-2 hours. Professional guides and all safety equipment (helmet, life jacket). Best during rainy season (July-November) for strongest rapids. Gentler in dry season. Often combined with ATV or elephant sanctuary. Minimum age usually 10-12 years.
Learn Buddhist meditation practices at temples and dedicated centers. Vipassana, mindfulness, and walking meditation. English instruction available. Retreats range from one-day introductions to multi-week intensive courses. Simple accommodations, vegetarian meals. Silent retreats available. Donations appreciated at temples.
Receive traditional bamboo tattoo from Sak Yant master (Ajarn). Buddhist designs believed to offer protection, luck, strength. Traditional hand-poked method using bamboo. Includes blessing ceremony. Popular designs: Gao Yord (9 spires), Hah Taew (5 lines), tiger. Research practitioners carefully. Respect ritual significance.
Combine jungle trekking through rice fields and forests with peaceful bamboo raft ride down river. Typically includes elephant sanctuary visit, waterfall swim, village lunch. Full-day adventure. Moderate fitness required for 2-3 hour trek. Bamboo raft ride relaxing conclusion. Often part of multi-activity packages.
Ride ATVs through jungle trails, rivers, and countryside. Routes for beginners and experienced riders. Safety briefing and equipment provided. Single or double ATVs available. Some tours include mud riding, water crossings. Often combined with zipline or elephant sanctuary. Minimum age 16 for solo riders.
Learn traditional silversmithing in Chiang Mai's historic silver district. Hands-on workshop where you design and create silver jewelry or ornaments. Master craftsmen guide you. Take home your creation. Great cultural experience. Popular items: rings, bracelets, pendants. Some shops offer without class if just watching.
Excellent museum covering Chiang Mai and Lanna Kingdom history from founding in 1296 to present. Interactive exhibits, dioramas, multimedia presentations, and artifacts. Beautiful colonial-era building. Air-conditioned. Allow 1-2 hours. English descriptions. Great orientation before exploring city. Combined ticket with other museums available.
Southeast Asia's premier private contemporary art museum. Rotating exhibitions of Thai and international contemporary artists. Stunning modern architecture. Sculpture garden. Museum shop and cafe. 15 minutes from city center. Photography allowed (no flash). World-class curation. Check current exhibitions before visiting.
Explores daily life, customs, rituals, and traditions of Lanna people. Exhibits on textiles, ceremonies, agriculture, crafts, and beliefs. Former courthouse building (1935). Well-presented with English labels. Good complement to City Arts Center. Combined ticket available. Air-conditioned. Allow 1 hour.
Showcases ancient Hariphunchai Kingdom artifacts (8th-13th centuries). Buddha images, pottery, tools, inscriptions. Beautiful traditional northern Thai architecture. Located in Lamphun, easy day trip. Less crowded. Near Wat Phra That Hariphunchai. Good for history enthusiasts.
Third museum in Old City triumvirate (with Arts Center and Folklife). Focuses on Chiang Mai's development, trade routes, and cultural exchanges. Old photographs, maps, and documents. Air-conditioned. Combined 3-museum ticket ฿180. Allow 45 minutes. Good for deeper history dive.
Dual museum featuring hill tribe culture exhibit (costumes, tools, jewelry, traditions) and insect collection (butterflies, beetles, rare species). Educational. Good for families with children. Small but well-curated. Air-conditioned. Allow 1 hour. Near CMU.