The Elephant Parade Land is one of the best family-friendly activities in Chiang Mai. Elephants take centre stage here, and they are celebrated in every way imaginable. It features a library, movie room, and a museum...
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.
Elephant Parade Land
San Phi Suea, Mueang Chiang Mai
Lanna Traditional House Museum
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiA visit to the Lanna Traditional House Museum will make you feel like you’ve taken a journey back in time. Learn what local life and culture was all about during the Lanna kingdom, which dates back to several...
Monfai is an excellent destination in Chiang Mai for anyone who wants to learn more about the Lanna culture. Located on Patan Road, this beautiful place is made with traditional wooden Lanna architecture and has lots of...
Huai Nam Dang National Park
Kuet Chang, Mae TaengThe Huai Nam Dang National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful national park that stretches from Chiang Mai up to Pai. The park is located high above the mountains; a tranquil, scenic environment set amongst rugged peaks...
Khun Chang Khian
Don Kaeo, Mueang Chiang MaiKhun Chang Khian is an astonishing attraction in Chiang Mai, where you’ll find the very special cherry blossoms, also known as sakura flowers. Thailand has its version of Japan’s famous cherry blossoms, and...
Mae Klang Waterfall
Ban Luang, Chom ThongThe Mae Klang Waterfall is a popular natural attraction of near Chiang Mai, located within the picturesque Doi Inthanon National Park. This is a popular site for kids and adults alike, as it provides you with a chance...
Araksa Tea Garden
Bang Chang, Mae TangThe Araksa Tea Garden specialises in producing premium Assam tea; a distinct black tea which is named after the most prominent tea-growing region in India. Found in the Mae Tang district in Chiang Mai, the plantation is...
Bo Kaeo Pine Tree Garden
Bo Luang, HotThe Bo Kaeo Pine Tree Garden is a peaceful, man-made forest with hundreds of pine trees. Located in the Mae Hong Son province, it is proof that there is so much more to Thailand than the legendary white-sandy beaches...
Pha Chor Tourist Point
Santi Suk, Doi LoThe Pha Chor Tourist Point refers to a set of towering, majestic canyons located in the Doi Lo District of Chiang Mai. It is one of the incredible highlights of the Mae Wang National Park; a jaw-dropping natural...
Mork Fa Waterfall
Sop Poeng, Mae TaengThe Mork Fa Waterfall is an amazing natural attraction near Chiang Mai. It’s one of the area’s most underrated waterfalls, so don’t expect many travellers here. This is what keeps this place so...
Siriphum Waterfall
Ban Luang, Chom ThongThe Siriphum waterfall is one of the most captivating natural attractions south of Chiang Mai. Located within the Doi Inthanon National Park, these are the third and last of all the major falls that you’ll find as...
Monthathan Waterfall
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiThe incredibly beautiful Monthathan waterfall is located within the Doi Suthep National Park. The nine-tiered waterfall gently flows over a cliff, lands over a pond, and is surrounded by the pristine lush greenery that...
Anusarn Market
Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang MaiAnusarn Market is a food and walking street market located close to the end of the famous Night Bazaar. It is open every night, 7 days a week. The market sells a lot of local food as well as Japanese, Malaysian and...
Thanin Market
Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang MaiThanin Market (also known as Siri Wattana Market) is primarily a food market located 1 kilometre north of the old city. Serving a range of take away Thai dishes, and many you can enjoy then and there, this market mainly...
Central Chiangmai Airport
Pa Daet, Mueang Chiang MaiCentral Chiangmai Airport is a major shopping, dining, and entertainment centre near Chiang Mai International Airport. Previously known as CentralPlaza Chiangmai Airport, the complex offers a convenient place to shop...
Premium Outlet Chiang Mai
Baan Waen, Hang DongPremium Outlet Chiang Mai is a large outdoor mall that stocks over 300 brands at 70% off retail price all year round. So if you are after some international brands at a great price whilst in Chiang Mai, then the Premium...
Think Park
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiThink Park is a shopping and cafe space located on the corner of Nimmanahaeminda Road and Huay Kaew Road and is opposite to the large Maya Shopping Mall. Think Park is home to a number of coffee shops, clothing stores...
Baan Tawai Village
Khun Khong, Hang DongBaan Tawai Village is home to Chiang Mai’s most talented woodcarvers. Here, you can find the best quality wooden items at terrific prices, all while supporting the hardworking local artisans. It’s more than...
Bo Sang Umbrella Village
Ton Pao, San KamphaengThe Bo Sang Umbrella Village is a one-of-a-kind attraction in Chiang Mai; named after these beautiful, colourful parasols which are an iconic part of the local culture. It is located within the San Kampaeng district...
Chinatown Chiang Mai
Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang MaiThe bustling Chinatown in Chiang Mai is where you’ll find an overwhelming amount of sights, smells, tastes, and textures – all waiting for you to discover. The area is actually spread out across the east...
JJ Market Chiang Mai
Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang MaiThe JJ Market in Chiang Mai (Jing Jai Market) is a delightful market to visit – located north of the old city in Chang Phueak. Compared to other markets, it’s much more relaxed and allows you to hang out and...
Kad Farang Village
Ban Waen, Hang DongThe Kad Farang Village is a boutique shopping development in Chiang Mai; offering an impressive range of services for all your needs. Located around 11km south-west of the Old City on Hang Dong Road, the lifestyle mall...
Kad Rincome Fashion Market
Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Kad Rincome Fashion Market is the ultimate destination in Chiang Mai for shoppers. It’s considered one of the best markets to visit because of its affordable clothes and accessories. The market is located next...
Kham Tiang Flower Market
Pa Tan, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Kham Tiang Flower Market not only sells lots of beautiful plants and flowers, but it’s also a terrific local experience in Chiang Mai. Think of it as a one-stop-shop for all your gardening and plant needs. In...
Muang Mai Market
Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Muang Mai Market in Chiang Mai is the main market for wholesale fruit and produce shopping in the city. It’s so large and the varieties available are so impressive that many who come feel that it may just be...
Pantip Plaza Chiang Mai
Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Pantip Plaza in Chiang Mai is the city’s number one IT marketplace. Whether you are looking to shop or have one of your gadgets repaired, this place will have something for you. The mall is well-known for...
San Pa Khoi Market
Wat Ket, Mueang Chiang MaiThe San Pa Khoi market is a foodie’s paradise. It is unassuming and perhaps one of the lesser-known markets of Chiang Mai. Don’t let that fool you though – the Thai food you will discover here are...
Star Avenue Lifestyle Mall
Wat Ket, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Star Avenue Lifestyle Mall is a popular shopping centre in Chiang Mai. Although frequented by locals, visitors who are looking to kill time while waiting at the Arcade Bus Terminal can also relax here because it...
Suandok Park
Su Thep, Mueang Chiang MaiSuandok Park is a popular destination in Chiang Mai, especially among local students. There are several areas for visitors to relax and enjoy a decent, affordable meal within the commercial development; including some...
Kalare Night Market
Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Kalare Night Market is a great place to shop for bargains. It also makes a fun alternative for those who want to spend their evenings doing something else other than just drinking. This bazaar is known for selling...
Meechok Plaza
Fa Ham, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Meechok Plaza is a shopping mall located in the Fa Ham area of Chiang Mai. This mall is a one-stop-shop for the needs of both locals and tourists, as it boasts of dozens of markets and shops, as well as essential...
Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong
Ban Luang, Chom ThongWat Chom Tong is a beautiful temple nestled about 60kms to the south of Chiang Mai. The temple is also referred to as the Chom Tong Meditation Center.
Wat Ku Tao
Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Ku Tao is an outstanding temple whose ancient roots and rich history make it a treasured travel destination for Thais as well as international tourists.
Wat Srisuphan
Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Sri Suphan, also known as the silver temple, is located close to the Wualai Street Market. This makes it a must-visit tourist attraction in Chiang Mai.
Ban Ho Mosque
Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Ban Ho Mosque is an iconic mosque located near the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. It is revered for being one of the largest mosques in Chiang Mai, and it is also one of the only 7 mosques in the whole province. The...
Wat Bupparam
Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Wat Bupparam is a famous temple in Chiang Mai. Ornate dacor and evident Burmese influences are what set this temple apart from the others. It’s one of the most frequently visited temples here, found on Thapae...
Wat Chai Mongkhon
Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Chai Mongkhon is an impressive Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai. It’s one of the top temples to visit in the area and is steeped in a rich, colourful history. The temple has numerous exciting details to discover...
Wat Chedi Liam
Pa Daet, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Wat Chedi Liam is one of Chiang Mai’s most beautiful temples. Also known as the Chedi Ku Kham, this magnificent 13th-century Buddhist temple was built by King Mengrai of back when Chiang Mai was part of the...
Wat Fa Ham
Wat Ket, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Wat Fa Ham is a beautiful temple found on the eastern banks of the Maenam Ping river in Chiang Mai. Although small, this temple is one of the most intricately adorned, and features numerous interesting little...
Wat Mahawan
Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang MaiWat Mahawan is a beautiful temple designed with Lanna and Burmese influences. Located just outside the old walled city of Chiang Mai, this temple features many incredible, intricate carvings of mythical creatures. Wat...
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.