Doi Tung refers to a mountain in the highland region of Chiang Rai. The name of this location translates to ‘Flag Peak’ in the local dialect. History has it that the use of the flag’s name is...
Chiang Mai Attractions
Chiang Mai is one of northern Thailand’s most rewarding destinations for culture, nature and outdoor experiences, with attractions ranging from centuries-old temples and lively markets to national parks, waterfalls and mountain adventures. The current Chiang Mai Travel Hub inventory is organised across major themes including temples, nature, national parks, waterfalls, museums, shopping, hot springs, elephants, adventure and general activities.
The city itself is strongest for temples, markets and cultural attractions, while the surrounding province opens up into mountains, forests and rural areas. That means visitors can easily combine Old City sightseeing with day trips to Doi Suthep, Doi Inthanon, Mae Rim, waterfalls, hot springs and adventure attractions.
Explore Chiang Mai Attractions
- Temples and heritage – Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh and other important Lanna temples across the city and surrounding hills.
- Nature and national parks – Explore Doi Inthanon, mountain viewpoints, forest trails and protected areas throughout northern Thailand.
- Markets and shopping – Browse Sunday Walking Street, night markets, local produce markets and modern shopping areas for food, crafts and souvenirs.
- Waterfalls and hot springs – Add Sticky Waterfalls, mountain cascades and geothermal attractions to a wider Chiang Mai itinerary.
- Adventure and family activities – Choose from ziplining, trekking, rafting, wildlife experiences, water parks and other outdoor attractions beyond the city centre.
Browse the listings below to discover Chiang Mai temples, nature attractions, markets, adventure experiences and the best places to visit across northern Thailand.
Doi Tung
Huai Khrai, Mae Sai
Zipline Adventure
Don Kaeo, Mae RimZip Line Adventure is a fun tree-top adventure that will have you zipping through the trees like a monkey in the biggest rainforest in Chiang Mai. Zipline Adventures are designed by professional engineers with years of...
Wat Chiang Man
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiWat 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.
Wat Suan Dok
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Suan Dok is believed to have been constructed in the 14th century under the reign of King Keu Na who ruled over the ancient Lanna Kingdom.
Chiang Mai Gate
Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang MaiThe 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...
Maesa Elephant Camp
Mae Raem, Mae RimMaesa Elephant Camp is an elephant park where they allow visitors to ride elephants and host elephant shows including playing football and painting. Those wanting to visit a park that does not allow riding should visit...
Elephant Retirement Park
San Pa Yang, Mae TaengThe Elephant Retirement Park is a sanctuary in Chiang Mai for retired elephants. Located just one hour away from the city centre, the park’s main objective is to create a haven that is comfortable for old...
Doi Ang Khang
Mae Sun, FangDoi Ang Khang has earned its reputation as Thailand’s own Switzerland, a fact that can be attributed to its cool climate and scenic mountain peaks. Doi Ang Khang is located on the northern Thai/Burmese border and...
Chiang Rai Hot Springs
Mae Chedi Mai, Wiang Pa PaoChiang Rai Hot Springs is located about half-way between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai on route 118, right near Khun Chee National Park. A common road stop on the way to Chiang Rai, you will find many tour buses stop at...
Doi Mae Salong
Mae Salong Nok, Mae Fa LuangDoi Mae Salong is one of the most prominent mountains in Thailand and constitutes the extensive Daen Lao Range in the northern part of Thailand. It is located right near the Thai/Burmese border and is within close...
Sai Ngam Hot Spring
Mae Na Toeng, PaiThe Sai Ngam Hot Spring (also known as the Secret Hot Springs) is located 15 kilometres north of Pai and can be reached by scooter. With entry only costing 20 THB, this is certainly a great place to come and relax...
Pai Walking Street
Wiang Tai, PaiPai Walking Street is the centre of Pai’s evening activity, bringing food stalls, handicrafts, clothing, drinks and live music to the streets of this small mountain town. The market operates in central Pai in Mae...
Wat Phan Tao
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Pan Tao is a small but very interesting temple, especially for visitors who are thrilled by Thailand’s unique heritage and religious framework.
Karen Long Neck Tribe
Mae Raem, Mae RimWhilst you are in Chiang Mai, you may be interested to learn more about the Karen Long Neck Tribespeople who live in parts of northern-Thailand. The Karen people are traditionally from Myanmar (Burma) and fled to...
Huay Tung Tao Lake
Don Kaeo, Mae RimHuay Tung Tao Lake is a secluded getaway located about 20 minutes north-west of Chiang Mai and is a great place to relax like a local. There are a number of huts surrounding the lake where you can get a hot tasty meal...
Wat Umong
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Umong, in full, Wat Umong Suan Puthatham, is an old temple nestled in Chiang Mai in the northern parts of Thailand. Locals also refer to it as Oomong.
Wat Pha Lat
Su Thep, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Pha Lat is one of the most magical temples in Chiang Mai. That’s because unlike others, it’s nestled in the lush forests and you’ll have to take a short but rewarding hike to get there. Unlike...
Mae Ya Waterfall
Ban Luang, Chom ThongMae Ya waterfall is one of Thailand’s best and biggest waterfalls. It is amazingly scenic too, with its stunning cascades pouring through verdant jungles. Located within the Doi Inthanon National Park, it is the...
Doi Pha Tang
Po, Wiang KaenDoi Pha Tang is an incredible hidden paradise in Chiang Rai. Known for being the best area for watching the picturesque Mekong river, but there’s so much more to discover in this mountainous tropical area. Located...
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiThe Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is a vibrant market that brings Chiang Rai to life at dusk. It is similar to Chiang Mai’s night market, albeit on a smaller scale. The Night Bazaar is held nightly between 6pm-midnight...
Wat Huay Pla Kang
Rimkok, Mueang Chiang RaiWat Huay Pla Kang is a famous temple just outside the city centre of Chiang Rai; one of the most popular, and frequently visited temples by both tourists and locals. It gets its name from the 9-storied pagoda which...
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang
Lampang Luang, Ko KhaWat Phra That Lampang Luang is a temple that was founded in the 13th century and some buildings were constructed in the 15th century. The temple was built in honour of Buddha who it is said visited the site 2,500 years...
Pai Hot Springs
Mae Hi, PaiThere are two Pai Hot Springs that you can visit on your trip; the first being Sai Ngam Hot Springs and the second known generically as Pai Hot Springs. The Pai Hots Springs is the most popular and attracts the most...
Samoeng Loop
Samoeng, Chiang MaiThe Samoeng Loop is a thrilling attraction for adventure lovers. If you enjoy exploring destinations on a motorbike, this one is highly recommended! It provides a great alternative, or a new adventure, once you’ve...
Loi Kroh Road
Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang MaiLoi Kroh Road is a nightlife and tourist street running between the southeastern side of Chiang Mai’s Old City and the Night Bazaar area on Chang Khlan Road. During the day, it functions as an ordinary urban...
Mae Sa Waterfall
Mae Raem, Mae RimMae Sa Waterfall (also known as Namtok Waterfall) is one of Thailand’s premier tourist attractions and is best known for its magnificent waterfalls amid the gorgeous natural landscape. The waterfalls are located...
Elephant Rescue Park
Ban Chang, Mae TaengElephant Rescue Park is one of the best animal encounter experiences in northern Thailand. They offer an incredible environment where elephants can roam freely in their natural habitat, while humans can interact with...
Malin Plaza
Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Malin Plaza market is one of the best markets in Chiang Mai. Although the city already has the famous Walking Street markets and many others, this one is still worth visiting especially if you’re on a budget...
Wat Phra That Doi Kham
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Phra That Doi Kham is a spectacular temple located on the lush mountain slopes just close to Chiang Mai town. It is a popular tourist attraction too.
Wat Ram Poeng
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Ram Poeng, also known as Tapotaram, is a meditation retreat for visitors who would like to tap into the power of meditation during their travels.
Wiang Kum Kam
Tha Wang Tan, SaraphiWiang Kum Kam is an ancient settlement of historical importance in Thailand as it is not just a rich archaeological site, but also a popular attraction.
Choui Fong Tea Plantation
Pa Sang, Mae ChanThe Choui Fong Tea Plantation is a large tea plantation located around 40 kilometres from Chiang Rai. The expansive, verdant plantations and tranquil atmosphere make it a truly scenic destination; one where visitors can...
Camp Chiang Mai
Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang MaiCamp Chiang Mai is one of the city’s premier co-working spaces. It’s located on Maya mall’s top floor; a shopping mall found at the intersection of Huay Kaew and Nimmanahaemin road. In a land often...
Nawarat Bridge
Wat Ket, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Nawarat Bridge is a popular bridge that overlooks the Mae Ping River in Chiang Mai; usually the site of important cultural events that including the Loy Krathong festival. Because most of Thailand’s cities are...
Wat Chetawan
Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang MaiWat 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
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiWat 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.
Baanchang Elephant Park
Ki Lek, Mae TaengBaanchang Elephant Park states that it is dedicated to offering rescued elephants the best care possible and allows visitors to come and see these beautiful creatures in their park. Visitors to Bannchang Elephant Park...
Hug Elephant Sanctuary
Chang Wat, Mueang Chiang MaiHug Elephant Sanctuary is a park for elephants that have been rescued from all over Thailand. Please note that there is NO ELEPHANT RIDING. Hug Elephant Sanctuary was founded in 2015 in response to the exploitative...
Chiang Mai Elephant Legend
Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang MaiChiang Mai Elephant Legend is a highly recommended elephant sanctuary. If you’d like to make a difference during your travels, or love animals, this place will be a fulfilling and fun experience. Chiang Mai...
Into The Wild Elephant Camp
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiInto The Wild Elephant Camp in Chiang Mai provides a unique elephant encounter that all ages will love. Unlike other elephant experiences, all the elephants here are free to roam in their natural habitat, play in the...
What are the top attractions in Chiang Mai?
Popular attractions include Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai Old City, Doi Inthanon National Park and the city's famous walking streets and night markets.
What is Chiang Mai best known for?
Chiang Mai is best known for its historic temples, Lanna culture, mountain scenery, markets, northern Thai food and easy access to nature and adventure experiences.
What can you do for free in Chiang Mai?
Popular free options include Tha Phae Gate, One Nimman, Sunday Walking Street and several temples and natural attractions, although donation or parking charges may apply at some locations.
How many days do you need in Chiang Mai?
Three to five days gives most visitors enough time to explore the Old City, major temples, markets and at least one or two day trips into the surrounding mountains or countryside.