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...
Chiang Mai Attractions
Chiang Mai is one of the country’s most rewarding destinations for travellers who enjoy culture, history, and nature. Known for its blend of ancient temples, lush landscapes, and lively markets, the city and surrounding region offer something for every kind of visitor, from spiritual seekers to adventure lovers.
Whether you have a few days or a week, you can soak up the charms of old-world Lanna heritage alongside modern attractions and activities.
Chiang Mai Attractions, Must See, Tourist Places, Things To Do, Map
One of the top draws in the region is the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched high on the slopes of Doi Suthep mountain. This iconic Buddhist temple boasts a gleaming golden chedi and panoramic views over Chiang Mai below.
Pilgrims and visitors alike climb its grand stairway flanked by mythical naga serpents, or take a scenic ride up to enjoy the site’s serene atmosphere and spiritual significance.
In the heart of the city, Wat Chedi Luang is another must-see temple. Dating back several centuries, its massive stone stupa dominates the historic Old City and tells the story of Chiang Mai’s rich past.
Nearby, Wat Phra Singh offers fine examples of northern Thai architecture and important religious art, making it a cornerstone of cultural exploration within the walled city.
Nature enthusiasts will want to venture beyond the city for a visit to Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak. The park is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring cool mountain trails, waterfalls, and hill tribe villages.
Also in the green realm is the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden, where you can wander through themed gardens and learn about regional flora in a relaxing setting.
For wildlife lovers, Elephant Nature Park offers an ethical sanctuary experience where rescued elephants can be observed in a respectful, natural environment. It’s a popular choice for travellers who want to learn about these gentle giants without the ethical concerns of traditional riding camps.
Chiang Mai is also known for vibrant cultural attractions such as the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, where nightly markets brim with handicrafts, street food, and souvenirs.
If your interests include eclectic entertainment and family fun, the Chiang Mai Night Safari and Grand Canyon Chiang Mai offer memorable experiences beyond typical temple tours.
Beyond these highlights, visitors can explore other regional wonders, such as the historic Bhubing Palace, the fascinating Golden Triangle area where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar, and even the surreal Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) on a day trip.
Together, these attractions make Chiang Mai a destination with depth, diversity, and lasting appeal for travellers of all types.
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 Siam Insect Zoo is a discovery museum and live insect breeding farm located in Mae Rim, just 20 minutes north of Chiang Mai. The Siam Insect Zoo is the work of entomologist Pisuth Ek-Amnuay who has been collecting...
The Tita Gallery is an exceptional art gallery and coffee shop just outside of Chiang Mai. Founded in 1999, it has evolved from its humble beginnings and is now a core feature of the local art scene. If you appreciate...
Baan Tong Luang is a quaint village in Chiang Mai, and one of the city’s stellar tourist attractions thanks to its ability to stay true to Thai culture.
The Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park is a fantastic place to visit whilst in Chiang Mai, as it is a sustainable and eco-friendly tourist attraction. The park does what the name suggests, it makes recycled paper and paper...
Bai Orchid and Butterfly Farm is a must-visit when in Chiang Mai. You get to experience the beauty of nature as the butterflies flutter over the orchids.
The Canopy Walkway in Chiang Mai is one of the city’s newest, most thrilling activities. Located within the beautiful Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens in Mae Rim, the impressive facilities at the walkway are...
The Mae Sa Valley is a breathtaking lush, green area within Chiang Mai. Crisp, clean air and lots of verdant forests make this destination unique, especially if you’d like to get away from the busy city centre. It...
Mon Cham is an alluring mountaintop destination – just 40 minutes away from the city centre of Chiang Mai. Its proximity to the old city and abundant natural attractions make it a popular choice for day trips;...
Eddy Elephant Care Chiang Mai, also fondly referred to as Eddys elephant, offers one of the best elephant tours in Chiang Mai of Northern Thailand.
The Doi Inthanon Elephant Park offers unforgettable and ethical elephant encounters in Chiang Mai. The park was established by a man named Taksin, who wanted to share him and his family’s love for the elephants...
Elephant Discovery Chiang Mai is an excellent place for travellers who want to meet and connect with elephants. Interact with these respected and honoured creatures as they roam through the rainforest situated deep in...
The Elephant Dream Valley is a highly recommended family-friendly activity in Chiang Mai. They provide responsible and ethical encounters with elephants who have been rescued from trekking and entertainment camps...
If you’re looking for an ethical, wholesome elephant activity in Chiang Mai, look no further than the Elephant Family Sanctuary; located near the Karen hill tribe village, around 60 kilometres from Chiang Mai. No...
Elephant Green Park is a beautiful sanctuary in Chiang Mai. The park takes care of these precious animals by providing them with a safe home where they can live free from the abuse that comes with working in the tourism...
Elephant Jungle Paradise Park specialises in offering ethical elephant encounters in Chiang Mai. All the elephants they work with have been rescued from logging and riding camps, and now you can get to spend time with...
Elephant Rescue National Park is an excellent eco-tourism adventure in Chiang Mai. Here, you’ll get to learn all about why elephants play such an important role to the people in Thailand. They have been used in...
Elephants at Home provides a magical but responsible animal encounter in Chiang Mai. It is located in the village of Maetoh, a Karen hill tribe village where around 200 people live alongside the elephants. Elephants at...
Happy Elephant Care is an animal lover’s dream come true. They offer responsible human-elephant experiences that are ethical and ensure that when the activity is over, both elephant and human are fulfilled and...
The Maetang Elephant Park is an elephant sanctuary nestled along the banks of the beautiful Maetang River – just 50 kilometres away from Chiang Mai. The story of the park’s history goes back to 1989 when the...
The Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Centre is an elephant sanctuary which is dedicated to the conservation and protection of the endangered Asian elephants. Located just north of Chiang Mai, the elephants you meet...
Blue Daily Elephant Care is a heart-warming elephant sanctuary ideal for visitors of all ages who are looking for an authentic elephant encounters near Chiang Mai. The majestic elephants that we all love, and which are...
Chang Sanctuary offers an incredible elephant encounter for visitors who are interested in supporting animal welfare. This place is different compared to other elephant encounters in Thailand, most of which make big...
Dragon Flight Chiang Mai is a thrilling adventure suited for all ages. This exciting activity lets you zip, climb, and soar above and through the trees while enjoying the lush mountainous area that this part of Thailand...
Tube Trek Water Park
Ton Pao, San Kamphaeng
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The Tube Trek Water Park is the first of its kind in Chiang Mai. Loved by families, kids, and adults alike, this is the perfect place to spend the day if you’re looking to cool down – especially during the...
The Monks Trail (Wat Pha Lat Hike) is an exciting activity in Chiang Mai that involves trekking to the famous temple set in a picturesque, serene forest. The best part about it is that it’s off the tourist trail...
Chiang Mai is an animal-lovers’ paradise. There are so many unforgettable animal encounters to experience here, and the Lucky Bunny cafe is among the best. There is no other cafe like it in the city, where you get...
The Mae Jo Golf Club is the ultimate destination for golfers in Chiang Mai. It is one of the more scenic golf clubs in Asia and is surrounded by verdant greens, beautiful vineyards, and small lakes. There are also...
Miracle Cabaret Chiang Mai is the first show of its kind in the area. Established in 2015, the cabaret is composed of over 200 exceptionally talented performers who will blow you away with their fantastic dances and...
Skyline Adventure Chiang Mai
Thep Sadet, Doi Saket
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Skyline Adventure Chiang Mai is an exciting, thrilling adventure you shouldn’t miss – providing an excellent day of fun that the whole family will enjoy. It is the longest, highest zip line found high above...
The Tweechol Botanic Garden is a must-visit for any nature and gardening enthusiast in Chiang Mai. It was founded by Mr Taweesak Sesawech; a man who spent his years collecting some of Thailand’s most beautiful...
The Go Bee Fishing Park is a great place that allows visitors alike to discover the thrill of freshwater fishing just outside of Chiang Mai. Learn what it’s like to catch local fish, as well as other imported...
What are the top attractions to visit in Chiang Mai?
The top attractions to visit in Chiang Mai are:
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Elephant Nature Park
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Bhubing Palace
- Doi Inthanon National Park
Where are the most popular attractions located in Chiang Mai?
The top attractions around Chiang Mai are located in:
Check out the whole list of attractions in Chiang Mai.
What are the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai with kids?
The most popular things to do in Chiang Mai with kids are:
- Elephant Nature Park
- Chiang Mai Night Safari
- Grand Canyon Chiang Mai
- Tiger Kingdom Chiang Mai
- Chiang Mai Zoo
What can you do in Chiang Mai for free?
The most popular things to do in Chiang Mai for free are:
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street Market
- Tha Phae Gate
- One Nimman
- Bua Thong Waterfalls (Sticky Waterfalls)