Welcome to Chiang Mai, a beautiful city near Thailand's highest mountains. With centuries of history and culture, there is much to explore here. Chiang Mai has it all if you are looking for the coolest places in town, restaurants, shops, or hotels. We will dive into some of the best choices on what to see and do in this stunning city that offers so much charm and character.
From hidden rooftop restaurants with unique Thai flavors and hidden speakeasies where you can relax with friends over your favorite drink to stylish boutique stores carrying handmade apparel, there's something for everyone here. We'll also look at some great hotel options if you plan an extended stay in Chiang Mai.
Things to do in Chiang Mai
Despite being one of Thailand's largest cities, Chiang Mai maintains a more rural feel. With all the best things to do in Chiang Mai, take advantage of the vibrant cafe culture, mouthwatering street food scene, and handmade arts and crafts.
Sunday Night Market
Without visiting the Sunday Night Market in the heart of the city, no vacation to Chiang Mai is complete. This market completely takes over the city and caters to all tastes. Everything from clothing to jewellery to souvenirs to delectable street food to homemade crafts and more can be found here. One of the best things to do in Chiang Mai is the Sunday Night Market.
Visit Wat Chedi Luang
Wat Chedi Luang is a stunning temple dating back to the 14th century in central Chiang Mai. It served as an important political center during its heyday and now stands as a beautiful reminder of Thailand's intricate history, with golden stupas scattered throughout the grounds.
Explore Nimmanhaemin Road
Nimmanhaemin Road has a buzzing cafe, restaurant scene, and many boutique stores offering unique Thai fashion. Take your time strolling through this chic district, stopping for coffee (or something stronger) at one of the many trendy cafes. This area has become a top destination for locals and travelers, so it's one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai.
Visit Doi Suthep Temple
Doi Suthep Temple is a sacred temple located about 15 kilometers away from Chiang Mai. It's perched on top of a mountain with spectacular views over the city. The temple is beautiful, with intricate details and plenty of religious artifacts. Make sure you take the time to explore all the various shrines here, as it's one of the top things to do in Chiang Mai.
Visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a temple at the base of Doi Suthep. This temple dates back to 1383 and remains an important religious center in northern Thailand. Stroll through the grounds, admire the impressive architecture, and enjoy the stunning views over Chiang Mai.
Take a cooking class
If you're looking for a more hands-on way to experience Chiang Mai, why not take one of the many cooking classes in the city? You'll learn about Thai cuisine and pick up some great tips from local chefs. This is a unique thing to do while in Chiang Mai.
Explore the Night Bazaar
The Night Bazaar is one of the top attractions in Chiang Mai. Stroll along the vibrant streets and find yourself spoilt for choice with souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, and handmade crafts. Afterward, grab some delicious street food or try your luck at one of the bustling bars nearby.
Go for a hike in Huay Tung Tao Lake
Huay Tung Tao Lake is a gorgeous mountain lake located near Chiang Mai. You can take a short hike around the lake, leading you past lush forests and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Spend a few hours out here in nature for some peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Visit Tribal Villages
Take a trip to one of Chiang Mai's many hill tribe villages, where you can learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life. Visit markets selling unique crafts, and get to know locals while enjoying spectacular views over the countryside. This is an unforgettable experience that won't be missed.
Elephant Nature Park
One of the top things to do in Chiang Mai is to visit Elephant Nature Park. This non-profit park provides a haven for elephants and offers educational tours where you can learn all about these majestic creatures. It's an experience that will surely be unforgettable and one of the most meaningful things to do while visiting Chiang Mai.
Try Street Food
Chiang Mai's street food scene is renowned for its delicious dishes, so take the time to sample some of the local delicacies. From spicy papaya salads, som tam to curries, noodles, and more, there will be something to please your palate.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Experience Chiang Mai from a unique perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride early in the morning. As you soar through the sky, 'you’ll get spectacular views over the city and countryside. It's the perfect way to end your trip or start your day exploring Chiang Mai.
Shop at the Saturday Walking Street
Saturday Walking Street is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai for shopaholics. The street comes alive with vendors selling everything from clothes and accessories to souvenirs, antiques, and more. Make sure you take The time to explore this bustling area, as you'll surely find some great bargains here.
Old City Walls
Finally, if you're looking for something more off the beaten track, visit the old city walls and explore the hidden corners of this ancient city. You can admire beautiful murals, catch glimpses of local life and take in stunning views over Chiang Mai.
Nimman Neighborhood
The trendy Nimman neighborhood is becoming one of the most popular destinations in Chiang Mai. It's a great place to explore for an afternoon, featuring boutique stores, delicious restaurants, art galleries, and more.
This area is also home to some fantastic coffee shops perfect for relaxing and people-watching after a day of sightseeing. So make sure you take the time to wander around this hip neighborhood while visiting Chiang Mai.
These are just some of the top things to do in Chiang Mai. Whether you're looking for an adventure or want to relax and take in all this vibrant city has to offer, there is something here for everyone. So ensure you experience as much as possible while visiting this amazing destination.
FAQS
What is Chiang Mai famous for?
Chiang Mai is famous for its stunning temples, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. The city is also home to the world-renowned Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a great place to explore and find unique souvenirs.
How many days in Chiang Mai is enough?
It depends on what you're looking for in a vacation. We recommend at least five days to ensure you experience all the attractions and activities Chiang Mai offers.
Which month is best for Chiang Mai?
The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cool season, from November to February. The pleasant and sunny weather makes it a great time to explore the city. However, it's important to note that this is also peak tourist season, so you may want to book ahead of time, as hotels can fill up quickly.
Conclusion
The city has something that everyone can enjoy when it comes to the amazing things to do in Chiang Mai, from fantastic restaurants to unique shops and luxurious hotels. Whether you're looking for exciting cultural experiences, trying delicious dishes, or just want a quiet place to relax and recharge, Chiang Mai has it all. We hope this blog post has given you an insight into what's on offer and inspired you to plan your next trip. Of course, with COVID-19 causing travel restrictions going abroad is often impossible.
