Karen Tribe Native Elephants is one of Chiang Mai’s top eco-tourism experiences. They offer ethical elephant-centred activities with a unique cultural twist: that’s because it’s a non-profit...
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.
Karen Tribe Native Elephants
Samoeng Tai, Samoeng
Hmong Village
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiBan Hmong Mae Sa Mai is the go-to village for anyone who wants to experience what the locals live like in a traditional northern Thai village. Located just 36 minutes north-west from Chiang Mai, Ban Hmong Mae Sa Mai is...
Ping River
Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang MaiPing River is a long river that originates in Huai Nam Dang National Park and flows through Mae Ping National Park and through the east of Chiang Mai City. The river flows for over 500kms and is a popular location for...
Huay Kaew Waterfall
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiHuay Kaew Waterfall is a great place for visitors who don’t have a lot of time in Chiang Mai and want to see a waterfall that is close to town. Huay Kaew Waterfall is located near the Chiang Mai Zoo, just 100...
Wachirathan Waterfall
Ban Luang, Chom ThongThe Wachirathan Waterfall is an incredible attraction you will encounter within the Doi Inthanon National Park. It’s the second biggest falls on the way to the summit, and is definitely one of the more impressive...
Baan Kang Wat
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiBaan Kang Wat is an incredible artist village in Chiang Mai; a testament to the unique creativity and talent of northern Thailand. Whether its contemporary arts or traditional wood carving and weaving, this part of the...
Wat Chet Yot
Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Chet Yot, also known to the locals as Wat Jed Yod, is a beautiful temple nestled in Chiang Mai’s serene surroundings, and a popular tourist attraction.
Mae Ping River Cruise
Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang MaiA Mae Ping River Cruise is a terrific day trip that takes you away from the typical sights of Chiang Mai to experience something a little different. A leisurely two-hour cruise aboard a cosy boat that travels through...
Baan Dam Museum
Nang Lae, Mueang Chiang RaiThe Baan Dam Museum (also known as the Chiang Rai Black Temple or Black House Museum) is a museum and gallery that was home to the renowned Thai artist, Thawan Duchanee. The attraction isn’t actually a temple per...
Wat Rong Suea Ten
Rim Kok, Mueang Chiang RaiWat Rong Suea Ten Temple (also known as the Blue Temple) is a little known temple located just north of the Kok River in Chiang Rai. Wat Rong Suea Ten, Blue Temple Dress Code, Chiang Rai Built in 2005, the temple takes...
Thai Elephant Conservation Centre
Wiang Tan, Hang ChatThe Thai Elephant Conservation Center is a government-owned and run Elephant Park that was founded in 1993 under royal patronage. The Thai Elephant Conservation Center offers visitors opportunities to watch elephants...
Chae Son National Park
Chae Son, Mueang PanChae Son National Park is a stunning natural attraction found east of Chiang Mai in the Mueang Pan District. The small National Park is just around 592 square kilometres large, but it is rich in beauty and majestic...
Lampang Night Market
Suan Dok, Mueang LampangThe Lampang Night Market offers an authentic shopping experience in the heart of Lampang. If you are looking for a less touristy market full of beautiful and inexpensive items, as well as food and drinks, this market...
Ploen Ruedee Market
Pa Tan, Mueang Chiang MaiPloen Ruedee Market is an evening food and entertainment market in Chiang Mai’s Jing Jai Central area. Located beside Jing Jai Village and opposite Jing Jai Market, it brings together Thai and international food...
Chiang Mai Shooting Club
Don Kaeo, Mae RimChiang Mai Shooting Club is a professional shooting range in Don Kaeo, Mae Rim, approximately 20 to 30 minutes north of central Chiang Mai. Also known as Chiang Mai Shooting Club at Pan Pattana 3, the range offers...
Op Luang National Park
Hang Dong, HotThe Op Luang National Park is a fun, adventurous destination for outdoor lovers near Chiang Mai, located around 20 kilometres away from Hot, on Route 108. Even if you’ve never been to a rugged outdoor area before...
Sri Lanna National Park
Ban Pao, Mae TaengSri Lanna National Park is the 8th largest national park in the country; being declared as the 60th national park in Thailand on August 1989; It covers 1,406 square kilometres of the mountainous area from Prao, Chiang...
Mae Kampong Village
Huai Kaeo, Mae OnMae Kampong Village is a small village located around 50kms north of the city and is a popular place to retreat for travellers during their stay. Set at 1300 meters above sea level, this village is filled with...
Sibsongpanna Khantoke
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiSibsongpanna Khantoke is testament to the importance of traditional culture in Thailand, and attracts locals and foreigners from all over the world. People visit Thailand for a myriad of reasons, and if you are the...
Wattana Art Gallery
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiWattana Art Gallery is home to exciting works of art in all of Thailand; little wonder the gallery attracts both locals and foreigners in their numbers.
Chiang Mai Cabaret Show
Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Chiang Mai Cabaret Show is a fun way to spend an evening in Chiang Mai, as you watch ladyboys and drag queens strut their stuff whilst lip syncing to your favourite songs! Located in the Anusarn Market Night Bazaar...
Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium is a large state of the art facility located inside the Chiang Mai Zoo, at the base of Doi Suthep mountain. The Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium was substantially renovated in 2018 and has one of the...
Iron Bridge Chiang Mai
Wat Ket, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Iron Bridge in Chiang Mai is one of the city’s most well-known landmarks. A majestic creation made out of steel, it has an old feel to it but it’s actually modern – built as a homage to the Nawarat...
TCDC Chiang Mai
Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang MaiThe TCDC Chiang Mai is a must-visit for anyone interested in design and creative work. It stands for Thailand Creative and Design Center, and it’s the first educational institution of its kind in Chiang Mai. The...
Noina Art Studio
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiNoina Art Studio is the perfect place to hone your art skills while appreciating the expertise and experience of fellow artists in Thailand. Noina offers single hour sessions, as well as multi-hour or multi-day sessions...
Three Kings Monument
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiThree 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;...
Chang Phuak Gate
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiThe 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...
Suan Dok Gate
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiThe 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...
X Centre
Rim Tai, Mae RimIf you are looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity during your stay in Chiang Mai, then the Extreme Sports Centre in Mae Rim is the place for you. Offering ATV experiences, bungy jumping, paintball, trail bike...
Phoenix Adventure Park
Mae Raem, Mae RimThe Phoenix Adventure Park is the perfect place for families in search of a fun activity to enjoy whilst in Chiang Mai. Phoenix Adventure Park is located in Mae Rim, which is just 20 minutes north of Chiang Mai, and...
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre is a museum which teaches visitors about Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant art scene. The centre is located in the centre of the old city, right behind...
Chiang Mai Historical Centre
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiThe 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...
Nong Buak Hard Public Park
Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang MaiNong Buak Hard Public Park is a public park located on the south-west corner of the old city. Covered with plenty of grass and shade, the park is a great place to come and relax with good book. Nong Buak Hard Public...
Chiang Mai Moat
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiThe 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
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiChang Phuak Gate Night Market is a compact evening street-food market immediately outside the northern gate of Chiang Mai’s Old City. From around 5pm each day, food carts and temporary kitchens line Manee Nopparat...
Chiang Mai South Gate Market
Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang MaiThe 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...
Computer Plaza
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiThe 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
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiIcon 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)...
Somphet Market
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiThe 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...
Wat Chai Si Phum
Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang MaiThe 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...
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.