This map of Chiang Mai is ideal for trip planning, not for lengthy guidebooks. Each map shows you exactly where temples, elephant sanctuaries, markets, hotel districts, roads, and tourist attractions are located – so you can see distances and routes at a glance.

If you prefer looking to scrolling, these Chiang Mai planning maps will help you make decisions faster and plan smarter.

Map of Chiang Mai: Where is Chiang Mai located in Thailand?

Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand. It is about an hour's flight from Bangkok and about two hours from the southern islands, making it an ideal stopover before or after a beach holiday or city break.

Chiang Mai Sightseeing Map: Top Activities

Chiang Mai's sights can be divided into temples, elephants, and natural highlights, each of which is marked on the city map to illustrate clusters and spatial proximity.

Temples (best explored on foot or with short trips)

Most of the temples are located inside or just outside the old city, making them easy to visit on a relaxed day.

  • Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: The landmark of Chiang Mai, known for its city panorama and the golden stupa on the hill. The best time to visit is at sunrise or sunset to enjoy the tranquility and listen to the monks chanting.
  • Wat Phra Singh: one of the most beautiful and largest examples of classical Lanna architecture; the most active temple during major festivals such as Songkran.
  • Wat Chedi Luang: Historical temple with a partially destroyed chedi; the holiest place.
  • Wat Suan Dok: Historic royal temple with a white chedi. Ideal for conversations with monks and meditation.
  • Wat Umong: Forest temple with meditation tunnels and idyllic, green surroundings.
  • Wat Phan Tao: A wooden temple in the old town, quiet and photogenic.
  • Wat Chiang Man: Chiang Mai's oldest temple, known for its ancient Buddha statues and elephant-carried chedi.

    • Learn more about the best recommendations for beginners.

    Nature exploration (Best suited for half-day or full-day trips)

    These places are located outside the city, so it is recommended to plan them as separate excursions.

  • Doi Inthanon National Park – Thailand's highest peak with hiking trails, waterfalls and panoramic views.
  • Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong Waterfall) – A unique limestone waterfall that can be climbed; a fun and interactive experience for all ages.
  • Sri Lanna National Park – Forested park, popular for cycling and kayaking; ideal for nature lovers.

    • Ethical elephant sanctuaries

    All elephant sanctuaries are located outside of Chiang Mai; plan at least half a day for this.

  • Elephant Nature Park – The most famous park, home to over 100 elephants. Feeding time is the only activity where you can touch the animals.
  • Elephant Jungle Sanctuary – Diverse program options, from one-hour visits to overnight stays. Several camps ensure a pleasant atmosphere. Located close to the city, ideal for a short trip.
  • Elephant Rescue Park – The most affordable private half-day tours for an exclusive elephant experience.
  • Kanta Elephant Sanctuary – The most affordable tours with a moderate itinerary. Ideal for families with young children and seniors.
  • ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary – 100% touch-free, no bathing or feeding.
  • Chiang Mai Bush Camp – The best overnight camp in Chiang Mai; numerous opportunities to feed and observe the elephants.

    • Chiang Mai Market Map: Where to eat and shop

    Chiang Mai is known as a "market paradise" – perfect for a relaxed atmosphere, strolling and local specialties.

    1. Night markets – evening strolls & street food

  • Sunday Night Market (Tha Phae Walking Street) – The largest and most famous market in the old city and also the most atmospheric, with a wide range of handicrafts, street food, street massages and performances.
  • Saturday Night Market (Wua Lai Walking Street): Smaller, more local atmosphere; artistic performances and street food.
  • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: The city's largest night market, open daily except on weekends. Ideal for relaxed shopping and dining.

    • 2. Craft markets at the weekend – Local crafts & photos

  • JJ Market (Jing Jai Market): Largest weekend arts and crafts market and first organic farmers' market in Chiang Mai.
  • Baan Kang Wat Artists' Village: Unique for the presentation of works by resident artists from Chiang Mai: ceramics, sculptures and paintings.
  • Rainforest Market: An artistic open-air market that combines plants, handicrafts, and organic food. Particularly known for its handcrafted small items.

    • 3. Trendy/Instagram-friendly markets – attractive to young travelers.

  • Coconut Market: Surrounded by lush coconut palms with tropical delicacies; photogenic corners that are perfect for leisurely strolls and coffee breaks.
  • White Market (One Nimman): Minimalist, Japanese-inspired design; stalls with art, illustrations and stylish goods for a modern, artistic atmosphere.

    • 4. Traditional markets and markets of daily life – Local food and everyday items

  • Warorot Market (Khlong Mae Kha) – Known for authentic local shopping opportunities and the largest daytime market for everyday items, as well as small food stalls for the night.
  • Aggie Hut / University Markets: Markets run by students; special feature: fresh, locally produced organic products in a vibrant university environment.

    • City map for a walk through the old town of Chiang Mai

    Route: Chiang Mai Gate → Wat Chedi Luang → Wat Phra Singh → Wat Ram Poeng → Wat Chiang Man → Women's Prison Massage → Tha Phae Gate → Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

    This circular walking tour takes you through the heart of Chiang Mai with minimal effort. It leads you beyond the temples and naturally combines morning markets, street food, a traditional Thai massage, and a night bazaar into a relaxed experience.

    Chiang Mai travel itinerary map

    Four days is the most popular length of stay for first-time visitors. It's also worth planning an extra day to fully enjoy Chiang Mai's special atmosphere during Yi Peng and Loy Krathong.

    A classic Chiang Mai itinerary usually includes a city tour, an elephant tour, and one or two excursions depending on your interests.

    Please note the following details:

    1. City tour of Chiang Mai: A must on every itinerary

    You will experience the daily rhythm of Chiang Mai.

    Stroll through 2-3 temples in the old city, climb Doi Suthep for panoramic views and insights into local spirituality, and then sample street food on a guided culinary tour.

    2. Elephant Experience (Half-day or Full-day)

    A half-day program is ideal for those with limited time. You can feed, wash, and observe elephants. Why not combine the rest of the day with a cooking class or a trip to Sticky Waterfall?

    If you would like to spend more time with elephants, choose a full-day tour for a slower pace.

    Optional day trips from Chiang Mai

    3. Doi Inthanon National Park: A natural playground for relaxation

    If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the temples and city life, this is the best place for you.

    Explore waterfalls, stroll through hill tribe villages, visit the twin pagodas and choose between a short nature walk or a 2- to 3-hour forest hike.

    4. Northern Coffee Trail: Closer to the lives of the mountain peoples

    This is a hidden gem that most travelers miss.

    Take a walk with a local through coffee plantations, learn how the beans are grown and roasted, visit the surrounding mountain villages and enjoy the picturesque mountain views.

    5. Mae Kampang Village: A popular weekend getaway for locals

    You can spend a day in the forest village, just like the locals in Chiang Mai do. ​​It's a great place for an easy jungle walk, visiting a waterfall, and relaxing in a nearby hot spring.

    6. Lamphun & Lampang: A must-see for history lovers

    You will get close to the roots of the Lanna civilization and be able to explore the earliest capitals of northern Thailand without crowds.

  • Wat Phra That Haripunchai (Lamphun) – a spiritual center dating back to the 9th century
  • Wat Phra That Lampang Luang – one of the best-preserved Lanna temples
  • Phrachomklao Rachanuson – an imposing mountain temple with a wide view.

    • 7. Chiang Rai: Ideal for art and architecture lovers

    This is more of an art-oriented pilgrimage than a relaxing excursion, as the journey takes 3-4 hours each way.

    Visit the White Temple, the Blue Temple and the Black House, admire modern Thai art and explore the temple grounds.

    If you want to include the Golden Triangle, plan 2 days in Chiang Rai.

    Would you like to learn more about the individual day trips? Discover the best day trips in Chiang Mai for first-time visitors.

    Chiang Mai hotel map: Where to stay?

    If hotel quality is important to you, you should stick to the Old Town, Nimman or the riverfront, where boutique hotels and upscale accommodations are concentrated.

  • Old Town: Especially popular with first-time visitors. Everything is within walking distance – temples, cafes, weekend night markets. Quiet during the week, lively on weekends and during festivals.
  • Riverside location: Ideal for families or couples looking to relax. Quiet, green, and spacious resorts, yet close to the night bazaar and the old town.
  • Nimman: A trendy neighborhood for digital nomads and night owls. Numerous cafes, bars, live music venues, and boutique hotels. Traffic can be heavy.

    • Those who are more budget-conscious and willing to accept short journeys will find better value for money in areas around the Night Bazaar or Santitham.

  • Night Bazaar / Thapae Gate: Ideal for shopping at the night market and for street food, with many mid-range and budget hotels. Touristy and lively in the evenings.
  • Santitham: Affordable and with authentic local flair, popular with long-term guests and digital nomads. Not a typical tourist area, but rather a normal residential neighborhood in Chiang Mai.

    • If you would like to learn more about hotel recommendations, check out Where to Stay in Chiang Mai.

    Chiang Mai Domestic Travel Map

    Chiang Mai is your gateway to Northern Thailand. Nearby places like Pai, Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, and Mae Hong Son are best reached by car – winding roads, travel time over 3 hours.

    For Bangkok and the southern islands (Koh Samui, Krabi, Phuket), flying is the fastest option – 1–2 hours – however, flights to the islands are limited and quickly become fully booked, especially during the peak season (November to April).

    Chiang Mai Transport Plan

    Chiang Mai has an airport, Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). It is located only 4–5 km from the Old City and can usually be reached by car from the Old City, Nimman, or the riverfront in less than 20 minutes.

    Public transport in Chiang Mai is quite limited. There are two buses per hour from the airport to the old city, however, these do not run after 7:10 pm.

    Most visitors use red songthaews (shared taxis) or private transfers.

    From map to itinerary: Planning Chiang Mai and surroundings

    Now that Chiang Mai seems more sensible, the next step is to find the right time to travel and combine the trip with other destinations in Thailand.

    Our Chiang Mai travel guides, including information on the best time to visit and trip planning, will help you make your trip smooth and relaxed. Or contact us directly to customize your Chiang Mai trip.

    If you would like to further your planning, you can also view our city maps: