10 Things to do Around Chiang Mai: Top Activities & Experiences

Best Things to do Around Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of Northern Thailand, is famous for its nature, history, and adventure. Surrounded by misty mountains, lively markets, ancient temples, and calm countryside, the city provides various opportunities for exploration. Whether you are planning your own journey or booking Thailand Tour Packages, Chiang Mai is one of Northern Thailand’s most culturally rich destinations to explore.

From discovering waterfalls and hidden viewpoints to meeting elephants in ethical sanctuaries, the region provides memorable outdoor experiences. You can explore the old city’s narrow lanes, which are filled with cosy cafés, temples, and handicraft shops. While visiting the outskirts, you can stroll through unique cultural villages, national parks, and forests. You can also enjoy adventurous sports like ziplining and rock climbing, relax in hot springs, try traditional Thai cooking classes, or explore night markets offering delicious local food.

There are countless things to do around Chiang Mai, from heritage discoveries to outdoor adventures. Culture enthusiasts can visit craft villages known for handmade silver, ceramics, and textiles. Nature seekers can trek to remote hill tribe villages, explore national parks such as Doi Inthanon, or relax near waterfalls and hot springs just outside the city. With nature, culture, food, and adventure, Chiang Mai offers meaningful experiences that suit every travel style.

Temples and Culture

Explore ancient temples such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang in the Old City, showcasing northern Thai architecture and history.
Visit the sacred mountaintop Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, offering panoramic views of Chiang Mai and spiritual experiences.
Stroll historic lanes filled with traditional wooden houses, local craft shops, and cosy cafés reflecting rich cultural heritage.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

Discover Thailand’s highest peak and cloud forests in Doi Inthanon National Park, including waterfalls and hill tribe villages.
Experience the unique climbable limestone formations at Bua Thong Waterfalls, known as the “sticky waterfalls”.
Visit ethical sanctuaries like Maerim Elephant Sanctuary to observe elephants in cruelty-free environments.

Markets and Culinary Experiences

Explore vibrant night markets such as the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Saturday Night Market Walking Street to sample local food and shop for handicrafts.
Take part in Thai cooking classes to learn authentic recipes with fresh ingredients sourced from local markets.

Adventure and Relaxation

Enjoy outdoor adventures like ziplining through forests or river rafting near Chiang Mai’s scenic countryside.
Relax in natural hot springs, visit botanical gardens like Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, and discover hidden natural gems.

Top Things To Do Around Chiang Mai

01

Wander The Chiang Mai Old City

Exploring Chiang Mai Old City is one of the essential things to do in Thailand, as it provides an insight into the region’s history, architecture, and culture. The Old City is surrounded by 700-year-old brick walls and a moat built during the Lanna Kingdom. Inside, you can explore important temples such as Wat Chedi Luang, renowned for its 14th-century ruined chedi, and Wat Phra Singh, which preserves ancient Lanna architectural design. Travelers often include this experience in their Chiang Mai tour packages to make the most of their visit.

The area is also renowned for its traditional markets, small museums, and local craft shops that showcase Northern Thai handicrafts. You can have a clear view of everyday life, centuries-old religious sites, and historic wooden houses while walking through its narrow lanes.

Location: Central Chiang Mai, surrounded by ancient brick walls and a moat.

Historical/Cultural Significance: Former capital of the Lanna Kingdom, over 700 years old, rich religious and architectural heritage.

Notable Features:

Over 30 ancient temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh
Narrow streets with traditional wooden houses
Vibrant markets and craft shops showcasing Northern Thai handicrafts

Timings: Best explored early morning (7 AM–10 AM) or late afternoon (4 PM–6 PM) to avoid heat.

Experience Highlights:

Temple visits and sightseeing
Local market shopping and handicraft browsing
Cultural immersion via street scenes and historic architecture

How to Reach:

Easily accessible by foot from most city accommodations
Tuk-tuks and red songthaews provide cheap and convenient transport within the Old City
Bicycle rentals are popular and allow flexible exploration

02

Spend A Day At An Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

Visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary is one of the most meaningful things to do around Chiang Mai. The sanctuaries focus on rescue, cruelty-free care, and rehabilitation for elephants previously used in logging or tourism. Instead of riding, you can participate in responsible activities such as feeding elephants, preparing nutritious herbal balls, and observing their natural behaviours in forested environments. It’s often highlighted among the best things to do in Chiang Mai, especially for those seeking responsible experiences.

Various sanctuaries like Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary and Elephant Nature Park are operating with strict no-chain and no-performance policies. You can take a guided walk and learn about elephant health, social structures, and conservation challenges in Thailand.

Location: Typically 30-60 minutes outside Chiang Mai, in forested areas northeast or northwest.

Historical/Cultural Significance: Rescue and conservation focus, promoting cruelty-free elephant tourism.

Notable Features:

Free-roaming rescued elephants
No riding or performance shows, promoting ethical interaction
Educational talks by guides on elephant care and behavior

Timings:

Day tours usually start around 8 AM and last 6-8 hour
Cooler months November to February, are preferred for comfort

Experience Highlights:

Feeding and preparing herbal food for elephants
Walking alongside elephants in natural habitats
Learning about elephant conservation challenges

How to Reach:

Most sanctuaries offer convenient hotel pickup and return in Chiang Mai
Private taxis arranged in advance can reach most locations via well-maintained roads
Shuttle buses are sometimes available for groups

03

Explore Doi Inthanon National Park

Home to Thailand’s highest peak at 2,565 metres, the Doi Inthanon National Park offers cool temperatures and diverse ecosystems year-round. The park has rare bird species, cloud forests, and significant waterfalls like Wachirathan and Siriphum. You will find nature trails in the middle of the park, including the Kew Mae Pan trek. The park is known for panoramic ridge views and rich biodiversity, making it one of the best things to do around Chiang Mai for nature lovers.

The iconic King and Queen Pagodas sit near the summit, providing elevated viewpoints over terraced hills. The park also preserves Hmong and Karen hill tribe villages, where you can see traditional mountain farming. It also stands out as one of the best places to visit in Chiang Mai for travellers who enjoy scenic landscapes and peaceful natural settings.

Location: 70 km southwest of Chiang Mai city, Thailand’s highest peak.

Historical/Cultural Significance: Ecological preservation and hill tribe cultural heritage.

Notable Features:

King and Queen Pagodas with panoramic mountain views
Waterfalls: Wachirathan and Siriphum
Cloud forests and diverse flora and fauna

Timings:

Park open 6 AM to 6 PM daily
November to February offers best conditions for trekking and wildlife spotting

Experience Highlights:

Hiking Kew Mae Pan trail and other nature walks
Visiting mountain tribe villages
Birdwatching and photography

How to Reach:

Guided tours include roundtrip transport from Chiang Mai
Private taxis and car rentals are common; well-paved roads make driving straightforward
Bus services are infrequent and less convenient

04

Visit Doi Suthep Temple

Doi Suthep Temple, officially known as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, is one of northern Thailand’s most important Buddhist sites. Located 1,073 metres above sea level, the temple gives scenic views of Chiang Mai from its spacious viewpoint terrace. It dates back to 1383 and houses a revered golden chedi containing sacred Buddha relics.

It stands among the unique things to do around Chiang Mai, especially for travellers interested in history and architecture. Visiting this temple is also a meaningful cultural stop for those planning a family trip to Thailand, offering a blend of learning and scenic beauty. To reach the temple, you are required to climb 306 Naga-lined steps or take a tram to the top. Inside the complex, you can marvel at murals depicting Buddhist teachings, intricately carved statues, and traditional Lanna-style structures.

Location: 15 km west of Chiang Mai city on Doi Suthep mountain at 1,073 m altitude.

Historical/Cultural Significance: Important Buddhist pilgrimage site founded in 1383, containing revered relics.

Notable Features:

The golden chedi visible for miles
Staircase with 306 naga serpent balustrades
Extensive murals and Lanna architectural details

Timings:

Open 6 AM to 6 PM daily
Early morning visits (6–9 AM) avoid heat and crowds

Experience Highlights:

Spiritual rituals and temple ceremonies
Panoramic city views from the terrace
Exploring sacred relics and temple grounds

How to Reach:

Public red songthaews regularly run from city center to temple bas
Private taxis or tuk-tuks facilitate direct and flexible access
For those with limited mobility, a tram service is available to the temple summit

05

Shop At Night Markets

Chiang Mai’s night markets offer a wide range of regional foods, local crafts, and handmade products sourced from northern Thailand’s artisan communities. You can explore the Sunday Walking Street Market, which stretches along Ratchadamnoen Road and features silver jewellery, traditional textiles, and hill-tribe crafts. The Night Bazaar on Chang Khlan Road is one of the busiest trading areas, famous for lanterns, wood carvings, and affordable clothing.

Among the most vibrant things to do around Chiang Mai, you can enjoy local dishes such as khao soi and sai ua while exploring these markets. These colourful markets also add a lively cultural experience to a honeymoon trip to Chiang Mai, especially for couples who enjoy food, shopping, and evening strolls. In the city, Warorot Market provides authentic herbs, northern snacks, and everyday goods popular with locals.

Location: Main markets include Night Bazaar (Chang Khlan Road) and Sunday Walking Street (Ratchadamnoen Road).

Historical/Cultural Significance: Showcases craftsmanship and culinary traditions of Northern Thailand.

Notable Features:

Handicrafts including textiles, silverware, wood carvings
Northern Thai street foods: khao soi, sai ua, mango sticky rice
Lively atmosphere with music and street performers

Timings:

Operational 6 PM to 11 PM daily on regular markets
Weekend markets have peak times Friday-Sunday evenings

Experience Highlights:

Sampling authentic local foods
Shopping for unique artisan goods
Enjoying cultural performances and vibrant crowds

How to Reach:

Easily accessible via tuk-tuk, taxi, or on foot from downtown hotels
Some markets include parking for private vehicles

06

Take A Thai Cooking Class

Get a chance to learn traditional techniques using fresh, locally sourced ingredients by taking a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai. Most classes begin with a guided tour of a local market where you will gain insight into the uses of herbs like galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass. You can prepare multiple dishes such as green curry, pad thai, tom yum soup, and mango sticky rice.

Various schools also take you to their organic farms to understand how vegetables and spices are grown. In the classes, you can have hands-on training, individual cooking stations, and recipe booklets to take home. This practical experience will help you understand authentic Northern Thai flavours and cooking methods.

Location: Cooking schools in Old City, riverside, and countryside farms.

Historical/Cultural Significance: Traditional Thai culinary techniques reflecting local culture and ingredients.

Notable Features:

Market tours emphasizing fresh, local ingredients
Farm visits to learn about organic produce cultivation
Hands-on cooking stations with individual guidance

Timings:

Morning classes start from 9 AM to 12 PM (includes market visit)
Afternoon classes from 3 PM to 6 PM (cooking focused)

Experience Highlights:

Preparing classic dishes like green curry, pad thai, tom yum soup
Learning herbal and spice uses in Thai cuisine
Dining together on self-cooked meal and taking recipes home

How to Reach:

Most schools provide hotel pickup and drop-off
Simple taxi or tuk-tuk rides if traveling independently

07

Explore Chiang Rai On A Day Trip

A day trip to Chiang Rai allows you to explore some of Northern Thailand’s most striking landmarks. You can visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), featuring plasterwork decorated with mirrored glass. The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) is known for its bright cobalt interiors. In the middle of the city, you can visit the Black House Museum (Baan Dam), showing traditional Lanna architecture mixed with contemporary art.

One of the unique things to do around Chiang Mai, the city exploration allows you to see distinctive northern art styles. You can also visit the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet along the Mekong River.

Location: Northern city about 180 km northeast of Chiang Mai.

Historical/Cultural Significance: The city blends ancient Lanna traditions with contemporary Buddhist art seen in renowned temples, also historically part of northern Thai kingdom systems distinct from Chiang Mai.

Notable Features:

White Temple’s intricate plasterwork and mirrored glass
Blue Temple’s vivid cobalt interiors and golden statues
Black House’s fusion of Lanna and contemporary art

Timings:

Full-day tours start early (7 AM–8 AM) and return by evening

Experience Highlights:

Touring unique temples and art museums
Visiting the Golden Triangle historic riverfront

How to Reach:

Guided tours depart from Chiang Mai hotels with comfortable transportation
Private car rentals offer flexible itineraries

08

Visit Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong)

Located in Sri Lanna National Park, it is one of the famous places to visit in Thailand for couples, dropping approximately 20–30 metres in total height. The waterfall is known for its unique limestone surface that provides a strong grip, allowing visitors to climb the cascading tiers without slipping. Its mineral-rich water deposits create a rough, non-slippery texture, making the waterfall a geological rarity in Thailand.

The waterfall’s multi-level structure offers natural pools and shallow sections, ideal for relaxed soaking. Also, you can walk on marked trails or relax in shaded picnic areas in the surrounding forests.

Location: Sri Lanna National Park, about 80 km north of Chiang Mai.

Notable Features:

Limestone waterfall with a non-slip, naturally rough surface
Multi-tier cascades with natural pools for swimming

Timings:

Best visited during dry season (November to April) for safe climbing

Experience Highlights:

Climbing up waterfall terraces effortlessly
Relaxing in clear natural pools amid forest shade

How to Reach:

A private taxi or rented car recommended due to limited public transit
Approximately a 1.5-hour drive from city center

09

Go River Rafting Or ziplining

River rafting and ziplining near Chiang Mai offer exciting outdoor activities in the Mae Taeng and Mae Wang regions. Operators follow safety standards, providing helmets, life jackets, and certified guides. These are some of the most exciting things to do around Chiang Mai, especially during the monsoon season when river flow increases.

Ziplining routes feature platforms up to 40–50 metres high, with cable lengths exceeding 300 metres in some parks. Rafting routes generally cover 8–10 km stretches, allowing you to see local river ecosystems and mountain landscapes during the activity.

Location: Adventure operators mainly in Mae Taeng and Mae Wang districts, 30-60 min from Chiang Mai.

Notable Features:

Zipline: Platforms 40–50 meters high, cables over 300 meters long

River Rafting: 8–10 km stretches on class II-III rapids

Timings:

Available year-round; monsoon season (May–October) offers higher river flows for rafting

Experience Highlights:

Exciting canopy rides through the rainforest
Paddle through diverse river ecosystems

How to Reach:

Shuttle buses or private transfers arranged by tour operators
Self-drive or taxis for those with independent plans

10

Try A Traditional Thai Massage

Try a Traditional Thai massage, which offers a therapeutic experience rooted in ancient healing techniques. Practiced for over 2,500 years, the massage includes assisted stretching, acupressure, and rhythmic pressing along energy lines to relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility. It is one of the famous things to do around Chiang Mai, as the city is known for skilled therapists trained in traditional Lanna methods.

Treatments are performed on floor mats with no oils, which generally last from 60 to 120 minutes. There are centers like Fah Lanna Spa and Lila Thai Massage that follow structured routines to improve circulation and promote deep relaxation through precise pressure application

Location: Widely available across Chiang Mai’s Old City and Nimman.

Historical/Cultural Significance: Part of a 2,500-year healing tradition rooted in Buddhist medicine and Lanna culture.

Notable Features:

Traditional mat-based massage with assisted stretches and acupressure
Sessions typically 60–120 minutes; no oils used

Timings:

Throughout the day, many spas offer extended hours until evening

Experience Highlights:

Muscle relaxation and improved flexibility
Deep pressure techniques promoting energy flow

How to Reach:

Easily reached by foot, tuk-tuk, taxi from hotels in central neighborhoods

Chiang Mai Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Chiang Mai

Explore Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Zoo

Situated on the foothills of Doi Suthep mountain, Chiang Mai Zoo is a must-visit place in Thailand. Housing more than 400 species of animals like zebras, penguins, seals, tigers, lions, flamingos, koalas, hippos, ostriches, giraffes, and much more, Chiang Mai Zoo garners a massive number of audiences from across the world.Besides the rare animal species, the zoo consists of several other attractions, such as Chiang Mai Snow Doom and a freshwater aquarium. When you visit the Chiang Mai Zoo with the Thrillophilia Thailand tour package, there is no other thing but to explore the vast area of the zoo and watch the animals playing in their natural habitat.The Chiang Mai Zoo is also a famous spot for hiking among several tourists who come for a solo trip or in a group. You can take a gentle stroll at the campus of the zoo until the aquarium or have a glimpse of the animals from the window of your tour vehicle.Located just beside the entrance is the Cage Area, where all the tiny animals are kept protected inside the old-school cages. A long stretch of flowers around the cages enhances the beauty of the place even further. You can also enjoy a picnic with your family at The Breeding Area or Recreational Areas.