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...
Chiang Mai Area – Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the cultural heart of northern Thailand, combining historic temples, lively markets, modern neighbourhoods, northern Thai food and easy access to mountains and nature. The current Chiang Mai Travel Hub inventory includes major attractions such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, Tha Phae Gate, the Night Bazaar, One Nimman, MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center and many more places across the city.
The city is easy to explore by area. The Old City is best for temples, walls, markets and heritage; Nimman is known for cafes, shopping and contemporary dining; the Night Bazaar and riverside districts are strong for evening activity; and Doi Suthep provides mountain scenery and one of Chiang Mai’s most important temples.
Explore Chiang Mai
- Old City and temples – Visit Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, Tha Phae Gate and historic streets surrounded by the old walls and moat.
- Doi Suthep and mountain attractions – Head west of the city for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, viewpoints, forest scenery and nearby mountain experiences.
- Markets and shopping – Explore the Sunday Walking Street, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, local markets, One Nimman, MAYA and larger shopping centres.
- Food and nightlife – Discover northern Thai dishes, street food, cafes, rooftop bars and restaurants across Nimman, the Old City and riverside districts.
- Culture and local experiences – Add museums, cooking classes, Muay Thai, massage, festivals and traditional Lanna experiences to a city itinerary.
Browse the listings below to discover Chiang Mai attractions, temples, markets, neighbourhoods and things to do across the city.
Happy Elephant Care
Mae Win, Mae Wang
Maetang Elephant Park
Kuet Chang, Mae TaengThe 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...
Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Centre
Ban Chang, Mae TaengThe 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
Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang MaiBlue 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...
Tube Trek Water Park
Ton Pao, San KamphaengThe 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...
Lucky Bunny Cafe
Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang MaiChiang 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...
Mae Jo Golf Club
Nong Han, San SaiThe 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
Si Phum, Mueang Chiang MaiMiracle 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 SaketSkyline 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...
Tweechol Botanic Garden
Choeng Doi, Doi SaketThe 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...
Go Bee Fishing Park
Nong Kwai, Hang DongThe 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...
Fang Hot Springs
Mon Pin, FangFang Hot Springs is a relaxing attraction 3 hours north of Chiang Mai. Come and visit to warm your body in a natural body of soothing hot water that will melt the stress away. Located within the Doi Pha Hom Pok National...
Chiang Mai National Museum
Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang MaiChiang Mai National Museum is a centre of excellence for works of art, both in Chiang Mai and across Thailand. It is managed by the Fine Arts Department. Thailand and especially northern Thailand has a rich heritage...
Museum Of World Insects and Natural Wonders
Suthep, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Museum Of World Insects and Natural Wonders is the brainchild of a Thai couple whose love for the outdoors led to its establishment. The museum showcases a diverse array of insects, ranging from tiny bugs to...
Old Chiangmai Cultural Center
Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang MaiThe Old Chiangmai Cultural Center is a great place to come to learn more about Thailand’s rich culture. With musical performances, cultural dance and authentic Thai Cuisine, the Old Chiangmai Cultural Center is...
Elephant Parade Land
San Phi Suea, Mueang Chiang MaiThe 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...
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...
What are the best attractions in Chiang Mai?
Popular attractions include Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai Old City, Tha Phae Gate and the city's famous markets and shopping districts.
What is Chiang Mai best known for?
Chiang Mai is best known for its historic temples, Lanna culture, markets, northern Thai food and mountain setting. It is also a major base for nature, adventure and day trips across northern Thailand.
Which areas of Chiang Mai are best to visit?
The Old City is best for history and temples, Nimman for cafes and modern dining, the Night Bazaar area for shopping and nightlife, and Doi Suthep for mountain scenery and cultural attractions.
Can you explore Chiang Mai without a car?
Yes. The Old City is especially walkable, while songthaews, tuk-tuks and other local transport make it easy to reach areas such as Nimman and the Night Bazaar. Attractions farther outside the centre, including Doi Suthep, are easier to reach by vehicle.