What are some of our favourite things to do in Chiang Mai? Here's a quick list:
- Exploring the IG-worthy cafes
- Climbing the sticky waterfall
- Soaking in the hotsprings
- Checking out stunning temples
- Trying alllll the local food
- Visiting uniquely Thai attractions
- Catching the sea of clouds
There's just so much to do around the beautiful north of Thailand that we highly recommend you travel there at least once in your lifetime.
But of course, don't just take it from us - you gotta experience it for yourself - so check out the best 40 things to do in Chiang Mai below, and start planning your trip!
🇹🇭 Chiang Mai Travel Essentials
Planning your Chiang Mai holiday? Here's a handy checklist of travel essentials for a smooth and hassle-free trip! From transportation options and local SIM cards to the best things to do and more useful travel tips and tricks... you're welcome, in advance! 😝
🚙 Chiang Mai Essentials: Transportation & More
If you're planning to fully explore Chiang Mai and the surrounding areas, the best way to do it is via car. You can opt to rent a car, or hire a private chartered car with driver for more convenience!
🏨 Chiang Mai Essentials: Travel Essentials & More
- Chiang Mai Thai Massage Pass (value-for-money!)
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🚗 Chiang Mai Essentials: Popular Day Tours
🎢 Chiang Mai Essentials: Adrenaline-pumping Activities
🥊 Chiang Mai Essentials: Cultural Activities
💆🏻♀️ Chiang Mai Essentials: Great Spas
🐘 Chiang Mai Essentials: Animal Encounters
➡️ Find more fun things to do around Chiang Mai!
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👉🏼 Getting to Chiang Mai from Singapore
The most convenient way to reach Chiang Mai from Singapore is by plane, which can be booked via Klook. For a 3-hour flight, prices start from SG$213.
👉🏼 Best time to visit Chiang Mai
Although Chiang Mai can be visited all year round, the best time to visit this northern city is during the dry season from November to February when the weather is cooler around 25ºC.
The coolest month of the year is in January when temperatures range from 15-30ºC. Otherwise, the rainy season in Chiang Mai is from May to October, with showers becoming more frequent starting in April.
👉🏼 Festivals in Chiang Mai
Yi Peng Festival
Chiang Mai celebrates several festivals throughout the year, with the most famous ones being Loy Kratong, Yi Peng Festival (also known as the Sky Lantern Festival), Flower Festival, Songkran, and Bo Sang Umbrella Festival. (Do note that Loy Kratong and Yi Peng Festival are held on the same day.)
Loy Kratong Festival
So if you'd like to experience something special, we highly recommend planning your trip around these festivals!
👉🏼 Getting around Chiang Mai (and travel essentials!)
Just like many cities in Thailand, not many places in Chiang Mai offer free WiFi, unlike Bangkok. Therefore, we highly recommend getting a SIM card so you always stay connected no matter where you are. We also highly recommend hiring a car charter, with or without a driver, for a more convenient trip. Taxis are another option, for those opting against a car charter. However, do note that it may be difficult or tedious to find taxis in Chiang Mai willing to travel to different areas.
From Chiang Mai, you can also visit neighbouring cities via car or plane such as Chiang Rai and Lampang. In fact, many people often travel to Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai at once as they’re very close and reachable via car – either from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai or vice versa by car then returning to Bangkok or their home country by plane.
👉🏼 Things to Do in Chiang Mai
Believe it or not, Chiang Mai is filled with numerous exciting activities from shopping at night markets and shopping malls to visiting aesthetic cafes and trying delicious local food. One thing’s for sure – you’ll never get bored at Chiang Mai with the abundance of activities here!
👉🏼 Shopping
Who doesn’t love shopping, whether it’s adding some cute trinkets or colourful dresses to your collection. At Chiang Mai, you’re spoiled with many shopping choices, from the open-air walking streets and night markets to modern shopping malls.
1. Chiang Mai Night Markets
Shop like the locals at night and street markets like Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Sunday Walking Street and Wualai Walking Street. Find everything from trendy clothes and Thai-patterned pillow covers to hand-carved flower soaps placed in hand-painted wooden boxes.
2. Chiang Mai Shopping Malls
Other places worth checking out are Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre and Central Festival Chiang Mai, home to your favourite local and international brands.
Whether it’s shopping for cute stuff from American Eagle and H&M or getting local beauty products from Boots or EVEANDBOY, you’ll easily lose track of time when you shop here. 😅
👉🏼 Cafe-hopping
3. Jungle De Cafe
Take a break in the middle of the jungle at Jungle De Cafe, where you can enjoy refreshing drinks on one of the wooden tables or suspended nets overlooking a waterfall.
They also have activities here for you to try, like jungle coasters and riding a tricycle between treetops
4. Chom Cafe & Restaurant
Photo: phoothakhin on Instagram
Head over to Chom Cafe & Restaurant, a gorgeous forest-themed cafe that looks a little bit like a mermaid’s lagoon – the IG-worthy desserts and dreamy set-up will feel like you’ve entered a fairytale.
Photo: angelhera_ on Instagram
5. Galae Restaurant Chiang Mai
Photo: dodiddonetoday on Instagram
On the other hand, flower lovers would love Galae Restaurant Chiang Mai, a botanical garden-like restaurant where you can sit by a pond surrounded by flowers of all colours while enjoying the Thai delicacies served at your table.
6. Transit Number 8
Enjoy some matcha ice cream or a slice of basque burnt cheesecake at Transit Number 8, a Japanese-inspired cafe with its storefront designed like one of those small train stations at the outskirts of Japan.
7. Fern Forest Cafe
Or you can also try scrumptious meals like Tom Yum and Spaghetti in Pesto Sauce and dainty desserts like strawberry pies under shade trees and white patio umbrellas at Fern Forest Cafe.
👉🏼 Must-try Local Food & Tours
8. Local Food Spots
One thing you must do in Chiang Mai is try their local food – in fact, some of its dishes are really popular among Thais that you can find throughout the country, although the best ones are still in this city! Try their Khao Soi and Gaeng Hung Lay for something soupy or Khan Toke Platter and Sai Oua for something on the drier side.
9. Michelin Food Walking Tour
Take the opportunity to visit some of Chiang Mai’s most iconic and delicious eateries, and learn about Chiang Mai’s food scene and history from a local foodie guide at this Michelin Food Walking Tour. Try local and authentic dishes such as guay jub chang moi tat mai (rolled rice noodles), mango sticky rice, pa tong go (deep-fried dough sticks), and khao kriab pak moh (steamed rice skin dumplings)!
10. Night Bike and Food Tour
On the flip side, explore Chiang Mai at night with this Chiang Mai Sightseeing Night Bike and Food Tour and cycle along beaten paths around the old town. Marvel at the city's famous monuments, such as the Wat Chedi Luang temple and the Three Kings Monument, and learn more about Chiang Mai's founding and its traditions with a friendly guide.
👉🏼 Spas & Massages
11. Fah Lanna Spa
Feeling tired after walking the entire day? The Fah Lanna Spa Experience at their Old Town branch offers a wide variety of massages you can choose from to help you unwind, such as Thailand’s famous traditional Thai massage or even specific ones like Office Syndrome Retreat and Thai balm massage.
12. Makkha Health & Spa
Or if you’re ending your day at the night bazaar, you can also stop by Makkha Health and Spa Experience for a quick foot massage or go for their body salt scrub or hot stone massage.
13. Let's Relax Spa
For those familiar with Let’s Relax Spa Massage – a massage parlour brand widely available around Bangkok – Chiang Mai also has several branches around the city you can visit. Try their four-hand massage or Thai massage with herbal compresses for the ultimate relaxation experience.
14. Cheeva Spa
You can also visit Cheeva Spa Experience for a more unique experience. With its aesthetic white and brown-themed design as well as numerous wellness packages, you’ll find yourself fully pampered and well refreshed afterwards. There’s also a cafe where you can chill and enjoy some refreshments after your session.
👉🏼 Natural Attractions & Animal Encounters
15. Doi Inthanon National Park
Visit Thailand’s highest peak at Doi Inthanon National Park, where you’ll find endless views of flora and fauna surrounding you. Before you leave, get ready to be stunned by the grandiose views of the Wachiritharn Waterfall and the King and Queen’s chedis – it’s a sight to behold!
16. Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls
One of the more unique waterfalls we've ever explored personally, fight against gravity and climb up and down this sticky waterfall at Bua Tong Waterfalls as water cascades beneath your feet.
17. Mae Ping River
Had enough elevated places? Relax by the water with this Mae Ping River boat cruise tour as you pass by Thai farmhouses, local wooden houses, and trees while enjoying Thai delicacies.
18. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai
Find elephants frolicking happily at this Elephant Jungle Sanctuary where you get to get up close and touch, feed, and even play with them!
19. Chiang Mai Night Safari Park
Discover nocturnal animals roaming around freely in their habitats at the Night Safari Park as you tour around the park in a tram, with the park accommodating over 1,400 animals from 134 species.
👉🏼 Adrenaline-pumping Activities
20. Pong Yang Adventure Park
Get your adrenaline pumping by riding a jungle coaster at Pong Yang Adventure Park as you zip through the rainforest on an open-car coaster and ride a bike in the sky as you soak in the wonderful views of the rainforest.
21. Trekking, Rafting and ATV Adventure
Feeling adventurous? Go on an off-road adventure and trek through the field, river, and mountains on an ATV and raft down a mountain river while discovering local sights you’d never see otherwise.
22. Jungle Flight Zipline Adventure Chiang Mai
But if flying’s more of your thing, the Jungle Flight Zipline Adventure would be perfect for you. Explore Chiang Mai’s jungle as you climb up 34 platforms and zip around on 22 zip lines – flying and adventuring have never been more fun!
👉🏼 Day Trips from Chiang Mai
23. Mae Kampong
Located around 1 hour from Chiang Mai, take a breather at this idyllic village in Mae Kampong, located between two mountains, and find yourself relaxing to the sound of birds and swaying trees. One of our favourite things to do here is go for a soak in Sankampang Hot Spring and boil eggs in the hot spring waters for a tasty snack after!
Another fun thing to do is visit the treehouse cafe up in the canopy at The Giant Chiang Mai. And if you're looking for something utterly unique, venture a little further to Bua Tong Waterfalls - a fascinating 'sticky' waterfall that you can climb up and down on!
24. Mae Rim District
Make your way to Mae Rim District, located just 50 minutes from Chiang Mai and visit stunning gems like Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens and Mae Sa Waterfall.
You can also opt to view the flower fields and take a dip at the onsen at Mon Cham, also located in Mae Rim. If you visit during winter, you may even go camping with a sea of clouds view right in front of you!
25. Lamphun
For history buffs, we recommend heading south to Lamphun, just 30 minutes from Chiang Mai. You’ll find a myriad of cultural heritage sites here, such as temples and monuments, with some of them even dating from the 7th century!
There are also scenic and interesting attractions such as Lamphun Cultural Village where you can pick up handicrafts like silverware, Koh Luang Waterfall - and don't forget to keep a lookout for the local longan delicacies like longan noodles too.
26. Lampang
You can also go further down to Lampang, just one and a half hours from Chiang Mai, and catch the famous white mountaintop pagodas - Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn.
For pottery lovers, head to Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum and pick up some affordable unique wares. Otherwise, for those looking for a beautiful natural attraction to check out, visit Lom Poo Keaw, a natural cenote in Lampang!
27. Pai
If you prefer a more laidback adventure in a place oozing with bohemian vibes, Pai is the city to visit located 2 hours and 40 minutes from Chiang Mai.
With the lush green views at Pai Canyon, hot springs, and villages with artistic night markets and delicious local food, you’ll fully savour all the time you spend here.
28. Chiang Rai
A popular destination for travellers visiting Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai is home to the famous White Temple as well as the Golden Triangle – which borders Laos, Myanmar and Thailand, separated by the Mekong and Ruak rivers. Located 3 hours from Chiang Mai, the city can be visited via car or plane.
When here, we highly recommend visiting the Blue Temple (we personally think this is the most stunning temple we've seen yet!), as well as the Black House Museum, also known as Baan Dam Museum. Last but not least, make sure to check out Choui Fong Tea Plantation too!
29. Doi Ang Khang
If you love the mountains, we recommend visiting Doi Ang Khang, home to one of the highest mountains in Thailand just 3 hours from Chiang Mai. At Pha Daeng National Park, you’ll be able to stay at the camping grounds, visit a hot spring, and relish the majestic mountain views.
Plus, as you drive along Doi Ang Khang, you might just be able to meet the locals and stumble upon strawberry farms, flower fields, and local villages where you'll find authentic fare such as freshly grilled sweet corn and eggs (still can't forget how delicious that corn was when we were there!).
30. Mae Hong Son
One of the best places to see the famous sea of clouds, Mae Hong Son is located 5 hours from Chiang Mai and offers pristine lakes, misty mountains, scenic treks and local culture.
It looks a little like Yunnan in China, with unexpected and picturesque Chinese villages like Baan Rai Thai - and don't forget to tuck into a steaming bowl of noodles at Ban Ja Bo Village!
👉🏼 Temple-hopping
31. Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat
Start your day at the temples with this half-day tour, where you’ll be able to catch the sunrise view from Wat Phrat That Doi Suthep and see the golden pagoda glisten in the sun. Afterwards, end your trip by visiting Wat Pha Lat, a temple nestled in the middle of the jungle, and Wat Umong.
32. Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao, Wat Phra Singh and 3 Kings Monument
Or if you’d prefer to visit temples closer to the city, this Chiang Mai Old City & Temples Guided Walking Tour will take you to three temples – Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao and Wat Phra Singh – where you’ll learn more about these famous temples.
33. Wat Umong
But if you don’t have time, we recommend at least stopping by Wat Umong. This 700-year-old temple is famed for its tunnels with Buddhist images and chedi, making it a must-visit temple for all travellers.
👉🏼 Cultural Activities & Traditional Performances
When in Chiang Mai, don't miss out on the plentiful cultural activities and traditional performances available in this creative and cultural hub of Thailand. It's something like Bali's Ubud - make sure to put some time aside for something more uniquely Thai!
34. Khantoke Dinner & Cultural Show
Immerse yourselves in Chiang Mai’s culture at the Khantoke Dinner and Cultural Show, where you get to watch local dance and music performances while enjoying a traditional Lanna-style Khantoke buffet dinner.
35. Long Neck Village and Hill Tribes Visit
Another must-visit destination in Chiang Mai is the Hill Tribe and Long Neck Village, where you’ll find various hill tribes living here, with the most famous being the Karen tribe. Best known for their women having long necks, also known as Long Neck Karen, you’ll spot all the females in their tribe wearing golden brass rings on their necks as you explore the village.
36. Thapae Boxing Stadium
Otherwise, catch a Muay Thai boxing match from the front seat at the Thapae Boxing Stadium and feel your adrenaline rushing even just by watching!
👉🏼 Bar-hopping & Nightlife
Don’t want to end the day so fast? No fret. There’s no end to having fun in Chiang Mai with its abundant nightlife activities, from bars and pubs to clubs and cabaret shows!
Those preferring a chill spot where you can wind down while having a drink can consider visiting one of the great bars like Caravan Bar and Beer Lab or even go bar-hopping at the Nimmanhaemin area and visit several of them one night.
37. Bar Hopping Night Tour
Visit the best hotspots like The North Gate Jazz Co-Op, discover more riverside bars like Ton Groom Riverfront, and taste some delicious local food and snacks at Chang Phuak Night Market! This Bar Hopping Night Tour will help you experience the best of Chiang Mai's nightlife with your friendly local guide!
38. Siam Dragon Cabaret Show
You can also add excitement to your night and end it with a bang by heading to clubs or cabaret shows like the Siam Dragon Show.
👉🏼 Workshops and Experiences
Are you an artsy-craftsy person or want to do something memorable with your loved ones? If yes, we highly recommend checking out the selection of workshops available in the city and trying them out before you leave. You can also visit an elephant painting workshop where you'll paint and take home an elephant statue at the Elephant Parade House.
39. Mama Noi's Cooking Class
Learn a local dish or two at Mama Noi’s Cooking Class – cook them once you’re back home and you’ll be reminded of your good times at Chiang Mai.
40. Chiang Mai Traditional Thai Costume and Photography
Take pictures in traditional clothing at the Traditional Thai Costume and Photography Experience.
There's just so much to see, do and explore with these 40 things to do in Chiang Mai. With plenty of night markets, cultural experiences, scenic attractions and awe-inspiring day trip locales, there's truly no better time than now to start planning your trip to Chiang Mai! Enjoy!
