Wat Chedi Luang is one of the many Buddhist temples that dot Chiang Mai City, and which seeks to direct devout locals and foreigners to enlightenment.
Chiang Mai Area – Chiang Mai Old City
Chiang Mai Old City is the cultural and historic heart of Northern Thailand, filled with ancient temples, traditional streets, bustling markets and centuries of Lanna history. Surrounded by remnants of old city walls and moats, the Old City remains one of Chiang Mai’s most visited areas and is the perfect place for travellers wanting to experience the city’s heritage, food and local atmosphere.
Many of Chiang Mai’s most famous attractions are located within walking distance of one another, making the Old City ideal for exploring on foot.
Chiang Mai Old City Attractions, Places To Visit, Activities, Map, Tour
One of the most important attractions in the Old City is Wat Chedi Luang. This historic temple is famous for its enormous partially ruined chedi, which dates back to the 15th century and was once the tallest structure in the ancient Lanna Kingdom. The impressive brick structure dominates the temple grounds and remains one of Chiang Mai’s most recognisable landmarks. Visitors can also explore the surrounding prayer halls, Buddha statues and peaceful courtyards.
Another must-see attraction is Wat Phra Singh, regarded as one of the finest examples of traditional Lanna architecture in Thailand. The temple is home to the highly respected Phra Singh Buddha image and features beautifully decorated prayer halls, golden stupas and intricate wood carvings. During major festivals such as Songkran, Wat Phra Singh becomes one of the city’s main religious gathering points.
Located near the centre of the Old City, the Three Kings Monument is another popular landmark. The monument commemorates the three kings who played important roles in the founding of Chiang Mai and the Lanna Kingdom.
Nearby attractions include the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre and the Lanna Folklife Museum, both of which provide insight into the region’s history and traditions.
The Old City is also famous for its lively markets and street food. The Sunday Walking Street Market, held along Ratchadamnoen Road, is one of Chiang Mai’s biggest attractions and draws huge crowds each week. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, local artwork, clothing and souvenirs while sampling Northern Thai street food and watching live performances throughout the evening.
Beyond the temples and markets, Chiang Mai Old City is filled with charming cafes, boutique guesthouses and traditional massage shops tucked along narrow laneways.
Many visitors enjoy simply wandering through the quiet streets, discovering hidden temples and stopping at local restaurants serving dishes such as khao soi and sai ua sausage.
The Old City also offers easy access to nearby attractions, including Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, as well as the city gates and moat that once protected the ancient kingdom.
With its mix of history, culture, food and traditional charm, Chiang Mai Old City remains one of the most rewarding places to explore in Northern Thailand and is often the highlight of any visit to Chiang Mai.
Wat Phra Singh ranks as one of the most revered temples in the northern parts of Thailand. Consequently, it attracts visitors from all over the world.
Chiang Mai Sunday Market is the city’s only market to open every Sunday from 4PM to 12AM. Locals fondly refer to it as Walking Street, for obvious reasons.
Tha Phae Gate is one of those attractions you include in your must-visit list, thanks to its name. Find out just how much of an attraction this gate is.
Wat Chiang Man stands out as one of Chiang Mai’s most remarkable temples simply because it is the oldest Wat in the city, yet still stands strong.
The Chiang Mai gate is part of one of the most iconic landmarks in Chiang Mai; once serving as a fortress for what was known as the Old City. Today, this attraction still functions as a geographical boundary but...
Wat Pan Tao is a small but very interesting temple, especially for visitors who are thrilled by Thailand’s unique heritage and religious framework.
Wat Mahawan is a must-visit prime tourist attraction located close to the old walled city of Chiang Mai, right next to the popular Tha Phae Gate.
Wat Lok Molee, also known as Wat Lok Moli, is a temple located in the old Chiang Mai city, just about half a kilometre from the famous Chang Phuak gate.
Noina Art Studio is the perfect place to hone your art skills while appreciating the expertise and experience of fellow artists in Thailand.
Three Kings Monument is a large statue located in front of the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre in the old city of Chiang Mai. The three Kings that are represented are King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Mai;...
The Chang Phuak Gate is a historic landmark and iconic symbol of Chiang Mai. What you see today is the remnants of the old wall, which has an important significance to the locals. It’s also around where most...
The Suan Dok Gate is a notable landmark in Chiang Mai; located on the western side of the Old City’s moat that leads onto Suthep Road. The gate itself is located positioned approximately one kilometre east of Wat...
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre is a melting point for Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and the vibrant art scene present in the northern region.
The Chiang Mai Historical Centre is a remarkable museum where visitors can learn all about the rich, complex history of the city. Aside from the wonderful historical information presented in an exciting manner...
Suan Buak Haad Park is Chiang Mai’s sole public park, green space where you can retreat to for a quiet getaway away from the city’s humdrum.
The Chiang Mai moat is a small body of water that surrounds the old city; popular among locals, residents, and expats – especially those who enjoy going for a morning stroll. After all, this city is one of the...
Chang Puak Market in Chiang Mai is one of the city’s most popular night markets for locals and visitors seeking authentic Thai street food, lively atmosphere, and good value. Located just north of the old city near the...
The Chiang Mai South Gate Market, also known as the Bumrung Buri Market, is one of the best in the province. Located along Bumrung Buri Road, this is one of the lesser-known markets which for many is part of the draw...
The Computer Plaza in Chiang Mai is your one-stop-shop for everything computer and gadget related. Located along Manee Nopparat Road on the north-side of the moat, this mall is one of the most trusted destinations...
Icon IT Chiang Mai is often referred to as the number one computer centre in northern Thailand. It’s a one-stop-shop for all your IT and gadget needs – located on Manee Nopparat Soi 3 (north of the moat)...
The Somphet Market in Chiang Mai is a traditional market frequented by the locals and is highly recommended for travellers who are interested to understand more about authentic, local Thai cuisine and ingredients. The...
The Wat Chai Si Phum is a beautiful historic temple located on the edge of Chiang Mai’s old city. It’s most famous feature is the stunning, intricately carved golden facade. Although it’s one of the...
Wat Chiang Yuen is a unique 16th-century temple in an area of Chiang Mai, which served as the residential area of the Shan people in the past. Also known as the ‘Temple of Long Life’, it is widely believed...
Wat Chomphu is a lovely Buddhist temple found just outside the Old City of Chiang Mai. This temple is famous for its intricate golden chedi (which can be seen in many other wats), although this one is worth visiting for...
Wat Ou Sai Kham is a small Buddhist temple located just outside the historic walled town centre in Chiang Mai. Also known as The Temple of Golden Sand, the temple features a viharn, a Ho Trai scripture library, an...
Wat Sai Moon Myanmar is a colourful historic Burmese temple located in the old city of Chiang Mai. It was built by the Burmese king Bayinnaung after he successfully conquered Chiang Mai back in 1558, so don’t mind...
The Wat Puak Hong is an ancient temple located on Samlan Soi 7 in Chiang Mai. The temple’s origins are unknown, but it is assumed that it was erected sometime during the 16th or 17th century, with its name meaning...
Wat Prasat is a stunning, unique temple complex in Chiang Mai. Located within the old walled city, the temple is right across the equally famous Wat Phra Singh. The ancient temple was erected sometime during the end of...
Wat Duang Dee is an early 16th-century temple in Chiang Mai; located on Phra Pok Klao Road in the heart of the old walled city. The temple’s name translates to ‘Good Luck Temple’, and features an...
The Wat Dab Pai is a small temple located in the north-western corner of Chiang Mai’s old walled city. It is known as the temple that can end suffering, although in the past it was called Wat A-Pai, after a monk...
The Lanna Architecture Center is a museum that is dedicated to showcasing and preserving Northern Thailand’s unique heritage in architecture; most of which is influenced by the ancient Lanna kingdom. The museum is...
Wat Chai Phrakiat is a historic Buddhist temple located in Chiang Mai. Located near the city centre, this temple’s name means ‘temple of the renowned victory. Although small, the temple is worth checking out...
The Wat Fon Soi is a small, quiet, and charming temple in Chiang Mai. Like many temples in the area, it is designed using the traditional Lanna style, although it has a unique personality and significance all its own...
The Wat Khuan Khama is an old, lovely temple in Chiang Mai; located in Sri Poom Road at the Sri Phum area. This temple is best known for having a theme centred around horses, and can easily be seen from miles away...
Wat Muen Nguen Kong is a small, quaint Buddhist temple located on Samlan Road in Chiang Mai. This temple may be old, but it has been well-preserved through the years, making it a top attraction in the city for visitors...
The Wat Pan Waen is a small but exquisite temple in Chiang Mai; exhibiting all the classic elements of a northern Thai temple. Located in Phra Singh in the Old City, the grounds are so peaceful and tranquil; not too...
Wat Samphao is a one-of-a-kind temple found within the city walls of Chiang Mai; located west of the Tha Phae Gate, and was built sometime between 1260-1578, which was during the reign of the Mangrai Dynasty. Its name...
The Wat Si Koet is a popular temple in Chiang Mai. Located along Ratchadamnoen Road, the quaint temple is distinct for its white colour accentuated by beautiful golden borders. It may be small, but its architecture...
The Wat Thung Yu Temple is one of Chiang Mai’s many beautiful and interesting temples. Located in the Si Phum Subdistrict in the Old City, there are many features that set this temple apart and make it so unique...
What are the top attractions to visit in Chiang Mai Old City?
The top attractions to visit in Chiang Mai Old City are:
- Tha Phae Gate
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Three Kings Monument
- Thapae Boxing Stadium
- Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
What are the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai Old City with kids?
The most popular things to do in Chiang Mai Old City with kids are:
- Tha Phae Gate
- Nong Buak Hard Public Park
- Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street Market
- Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
- Chiang Mai Moat
What can you do in Chiang Mai Old City for free?
The most popular things to do in Chiang Mai Old City for free are:
- Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street Market
- Tha Phae Gate
- Chang Puak Market
- Chiang Mai Moat
- Suan Dok Gate