Wat 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...
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.
The 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...
The 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 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...
Wat Saen Fang in Chiang Mai is a magnificent temple with interesting features. It is one of the lesser-known temples of the city, but definitely worth a visit especially if you’d like to see its impressive details...
Wat Tha Ton is a magnificent Buddhist temple complex at the Bat Thaton Village in Chiang Mai. Located just a few kilometres away from the border of Myanmar, the temple is perched on top of a hill with beautiful views of...
The Wat Phra That Doi Saket is a glorious ancient Buddhist temple outside of Chiang Mai. Located in the city’s outskirts, the temple is filled with many different kinds of decorations and paintings that reflect...
Wat Loi Khro is one of Chiang Mai’s many ancient temples with a rich history. Located on Loi Khro Road, the temple isn’t as touristy as many of the others in the area despite being on a busy street. Wat Loi...
Wat Pong Noi is situated in the charming artists’ village of Pong Noi. Located in the outskirts of Chiang Mai, this temple is more of a working temple than a tourist attraction. That’s one of the many...
The 700 Year Stadium Chiang Mai is a great attraction for sports enthusiasts. It’s a complete sports arena decked out with amazing facilities and amenities that both locals and foreigners can use. Located not too...
Chiang Mai Municipal Stadium is one of the city’s primary outdoor sporting venues and a central hub for large-scale athletic events in Northern Thailand. Located within the Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative...
Art Bridge Chiang Rai is a relatively new gallery where artsy visitors will enjoy a tour and come up close with treasured works of ethnic art.
Chiang Rai Clock Tower is one of the provinces most unique attractions. This elaborate clock stands out thanks to its golden structure and unique artistry.
King Mengrai Monument is located at the junction of Maesai and Maechan District, both close to the Super Highway and virtually impossible to miss.
Mae Fah Luang is grouped as one of the must visit art galleries in Chiang Rai. This blended park is also home to Buddhist temples and collected antiques.
Cat ‘n’ A Cup is a cat cafe located right in the centre of town and is a great place where you can enjoy a hot drink or a tasty snack as you pat some gorgeous little cats! CAT ‘n’ A CUP Cat Cafe...
The Cherntawan International Meditation Center is one of Chiang Rai’s top spiritual destinations. Tucked within a relaxing, lush environment, the centre is named after a famous Buddhist monk in Thailand. It is...
The Navel City Pillar of Chiang Rai is a well-known landmark. Just like any other Thai cities which have a city pillar, it is typically made using stone and placed in an area that signifies the heart of the city. Also...
The Pha Soet Hot Spring is a relaxing natural pool bath within Baan Pha Soet in Chiang Rai. There are communal pools, as well as private pools, with rooms also available. These thermal, hot pools provide comforting...
Lahu Village is one of those destinations in Thailand where you steal away for a day or two and never want to leave for its simplicity and sheer beauty.
Oub Kham Museum is an eccentric attraction in Thailand’s Chiang Rai province. It is home to diverse memorabilia from across the former Lanna Kingdom.
The Chiang Saen National Museum is a must-visit in Chiang Rai for anyone who’s keen to learn about the archaeological wonders of the town of Chiang Saen. It has been around since 1957 and today remains to be the...
Phu Chi Fa Forest Park is an amazing destination nestled in the jungle, some 1628 meters above sea level. This natural setting is one not to be missed.
The Doi Luang National park is one of the biggest national parks in northern Thailand; encompassing several districts that include Mae Suai, Phan, and Wiang Pa Pao in Chiang Rai, Ngao and Wang Nuea of Lampang, and...
The Khun Chae National Park in Chiang Rai is a breathtaking vast, forested land that is around 270 square kilometres large and has been a Thai national park since 1995. The rich, diverse eco-system here is responsible...
Doi Hua Mae Kham is a picturesque mountainous area that is known for the several tribes who reside by the border between Burma and Thailand. Located in Mae Sai, around a three-hour drive away from Chiang Mai, this is a...
Doi Sa Ngo is a beautiful ecotourism destination in Chiang Rai. What makes this place unique is that from here, you can see Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos all from one spectacular viewpoint; which is called the Golden...
The Tad Kwan Village is a well-loved cultural destination in Chiang Rai. Located 70 kilometres from the city, there are many natural attractions to discover. The village is best known for being the home of the Mien Hill...
Khun Korn Waterfall is an attraction whose stunning beauty earns it a top spot in the list of most beautiful natural waterfalls in North Thailand.
CentralPlaza Chiang Rai is a beautiful modern shopping centre and the very first high-end opened mall here. it was designed with features that allow guests to enjoy the scenic natural environment while providing modern...
The Chiang Rai walking street is a must-visit for some excellent shopping and quick bites to eat. Even though you’ve likely already been to many of Thailand’s street markets, this one is special and offers...
Wat Klang Wiang is one of Thailand’s most ostentatious temple, thanks to the elaborate pattern work on each and every structure on location.
Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong has been one of the most sacred sites in Thailand. It is the abode of spirits prior to the spread of Buddhism in the region.
Wat Phrathat Doi Tong, also Wat Phra Maha Chinathat Chao, is situated at the peak of Doi Din Daeng, and is believed to be the site of the first chedi.
Wat Phra That Pha Ngao is a small Buddhist temple located in Chiang San of Chiang Rai. It gets its name from the fact that it has a chedi that was erected on a large rock within the temple compound, with its name in the...
Ban Sao Nak is a marvellous historical wooden home that provides a glimpse into family life back in the olden days. This historic home, now over a century old, stands out for its striking architecture and has been well...
The Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum is a fascinating attraction that highlights the stunning ceramics that Lampang is renowned for. It is especially famous for the signature chicken bowls that they create from hand...
The Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn is one of the newest attractions in Lampang. Located on the mountaintops of the Jae Hom district, the sight of these temples will be unlike anything you’ve ever...
Wat Chedi Sao Lang is a unique temple, not too far from Lampang in northern Thailand. Sao translates to ’20’ in the local dialect, and it gets its name from the 20 chedis that are spread throughout the...
The Wat Pong Sanuk is a magnificent Burmese temple located in Lampang. The temple, which has received the UNESCO Award for Merit, was built back in 1886 by wealthy immigrants from Burma who were working in the lucrative...
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)