Sights and activities in Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai, the capital of the north with its 300 temples, is also a gateway to nature, the jungle, and the hill tribes. It's the starting point for many trekking tours, but the city itself, with its historic center surrounded by city walls and moats, exudes charm. The most famous attraction in Chiang Mai is the Doi Suthep Temple. The night bazaar is also very popular with tourists. At the end of the page, you'll also find a list of recommended tours, excursions, and activities that you can do in or from Chiang Mai. Click here to view them.

Must-see places in Chiang Mai: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (วัดพระธาตุดอยสุเทพ) My rating: 5/5 A must-see. Located on a mountaintop, it's the most famous temple in the area. Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai is very popular with Thais and tourists alike, and offers a magnificent view (often particularly clear in the late afternoon). My rating: 5/5. The most visited temple in the city is a perfect example of the northern Thai architectural style. The Sunday Walking Street (My rating: 4/5) is a large night market that takes place every Sunday evening in the center of Chiang Mai and features food stalls in two temples. A popular atmosphere. We recommend a visit, even if you're not alone! Doi Inthanon (อุทยานแห่งชาติดอยอินทนนท์) My rating: 5/5 stars. It is the highest mountain in Thailand and also a very interesting national park near Chiang Mai. It is especially popular for hiking to discover nature, birds, flowers, waterfalls, mountain villages, and rice paddies. And, of course, for the two pagodas at the summit. Wat Palad (วัดผาลาด) My rating: 5/5 stars. It is a charming forest temple with beautifully crafted statues and a tranquil, pleasant atmosphere. A small oasis of tranquility, often overlooked by the many tourists who pass by daily on their way to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, located a few kilometers higher up. Saturday Pedestrian Zone (ถนนคนเดินวัวลาย) My rating: 5/5 stars. A large night market, somewhat less well-known than the Sunday Pedestrian Zone. The Saturday Pedestrian Zone in Chiang Mai also attracts many visitors and offers the opportunity to shop and dine with local specialties at the numerous stalls and street restaurants. The neighboring Silver Temple is also beautifully illuminated on these evenings and open to the public. Silver Temple (วัดศรีสุพรรณ) My rating: 5/5 stars. As the name suggests, this temple is known for its hall, which is decorated inside and out with finely carved or engraved silver. It's especially beautiful at night with its colorful lighting. Located right next to the Saturday pedestrian zone, it's worth a visit if you're also enjoying Chiang Mai's traditional Saturday pedestrian scene. Ban Pa Pong Piang Rice Terraces (บ้านป่าบงเปียง) My opinion: 5/5 stars. This small village in the mountains of Doi Inthanon is said to have the most beautiful rice terraces in Thailand. I don't know if that's true, but yes, they are truly breathtaking. Spending the night there in simple conditions is one of the most wonderful experiences you can have in Chiang Mai province during the rainy season. San Kamphaeng Hot Springs My rating: 5/5 stars. These naturally warm water springs are probably the most famous hot springs near Chiang Mai. You can soak your feet in the hot mineral water, boil eggs, or take a long bath and swim in the thermal pool, and of course, get a massage. A wonderfully relaxing trip! Bo Sang Umbrella Village My rating: 4/5 stars. This village, just a few kilometers from Chiang Mai, is famous for its traditional umbrella making. You can visit the workshops year-round and witness all the production steps. A big festival takes place in January. Umbrellas are everywhere in the village, but there are also workshops for silversmithing and woodcarving… Elephant Nature Park My rating: 5/5 stars. It is considered Thailand's leading elephant sanctuary. There, you are guaranteed a beautiful and respectful encounter with elephants. Because although things are slowly changing (thanks to the work of Lek Chailert, the park's founder, and the people she gathered around her), there are still many elephant camps or so-called sanctuaries where animal welfare is not a priority. Straw King Kong Statues My rating: 4/5 stars. These giant King Kong statues made of rice straw have become one of the biggest attractions in Chiang Mai within just a few months. They stand near Huay Thung Tao Lake, about ten kilometers from the city. Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong Waterfall) My rating: 4/5 stars. Bua Thong Waterfall, an hour's drive from Chiang Mai, is nicknamed "Sticky Waterfall" because of its naturally sticky surface, which makes climbing the waterfall easy. That's exactly why most people visit: to climb the waterfall!

Other places worth seeing in Chiang Mai: Wat Chedi Luang with its beautiful chedi. Here you can meet Buddhist monks in a specially designated area and talk with them. Wat Luang Khun Win: This temple, hidden in the jungle and more than a 1.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai, is a true hidden gem, known to only a few foreign tourists, but definitely worth a visit. Be careful, the approach is somewhat complicated, especially the last 5 kilometers along a dirt forest track. Wat Ched Yod: Located just outside the city near the highway, it impresses with its beautifully preserved stucco reliefs. Wat U-Mong (the temple just outside the city; another temple of the same name in the city center is also worth seeing). Nestled in the forest, with underground shrines, surrounded by nature, and featuring a small lake, Wat U-Mong is a place of peace and relaxation. Huay Thung Tao Lake: This reservoir, with mountains in the background, is located about ten kilometers from the center of Chiang Mai and is an ideal place to relax with the family, enjoy the lake and its various activities (swimming, paddle boating, kayaking, etc.), and eat well. The restaurants serve very good Thai cuisine at affordable prices, which can be enjoyed in small huts. Wat Phra That Doi Saket: This temple is located on a hill 27 kilometers outside of Chiang Mai and, with its golden chedi, resembles Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, but is smaller and less touristy. A little further up is a temple that offers a magnificent view of the surrounding area, especially during the rainy season. Muang On Cave: The interior of this cave on the road from Chiang Mai to the San Kamphaeng hot springs is truly impressive. I recommend a stop here before continuing a few kilometers further to soak in the hot mineral water pool or visit the Bo Sang handicraft village. Wat Ban Den (★★★★) This gigantic temple, located about 50 kilometers from Chiang Mai in the Mae Taeng district, is very famous. It boasts numerous buildings and impressive statues, some in vibrant colors. Many consider it the most beautiful temple in the area. I disagree, but see for yourself. Wiang Kum Kam (★★★★) Wiang Kum Kam is an ancient city with temple ruins that are 50 or 600 years old, and others that are somewhat younger. A bicycle tour through the narrow lanes is highly recommended for discovering the temples. Still somewhat of a hidden gem among tourists, Wiang Kum Kam, while not an absolute must-see in Chiang Mai, is one of my personal favorites. Fire Massage Village (Yam Khang Massage) (★★★★) The small village of Ban Rai Kong Khing is famous for an amazing type of massage practiced by very few: the Yam Khang massage. It is also called fire massage and is not only impressive but also has recognized positive properties. The village, organized as a community, offers activities in addition to the Chiang Mai Zoo, which is located just before the several-kilometer climb to Doi Suthep mountain. The zoo is particularly famous for its pair of pandas and their cub. It is very large and houses many animal species. Wat Pan Tao impresses with its magnificent teakwood building in the Lanna style, which was a royal residence before its conversion into a temple. Wat Chiang Man is the first temple built in Chiang Mai and thus the oldest in the city. Wat Lok Molee is a small temple that is often overlooked but has a large brick chedi and a beautiful wooden hall. Wat Phra That Doi Kham is a charming temple perched on a mountain and little known to foreign tourists. However, it is very interesting and offers, among other things, a beautiful view over the valley, from which you can see Rajapruek Royal Park. A beautiful spot that combines well with a visit to Rajapruek Flower Park. Rajapruek Royal Park, a large flower park dedicated to King Rama IX, is located about ten kilometers from Chiang Mai. It features a wide variety of plants and flowers, including a charming orchid garden. The best time to visit is from December to February when many flowers are in bloom. You'll also find a beautiful royal pavilion there. Huay Kaew Waterfall is the easiest waterfall to reach from Chiang Mai. Located at the foot of Doi Suthep, it makes a pleasant stop after visiting the hilltop temple. However, be aware that the water level can be very low at the end of the dry season, making the waterfall less impressive. The Grand Canyon is a natural, freshwater-filled canyon located 18 kilometers from Chiang Mai. Here you'll find two parks: a large water park with many attractions, including inflatable rides, and another, quieter, more beautiful, and less expensive park where you can swim and cross the canyon on a zip line. Wat Ton Kwen, with its small wooden hall, about 15 km from Chiang Mai, has a very special charm. It's visited by only a few tourists. Foreigners rarely visit this place, as many are unaware of it. However, it makes a nice, short stop on the way to Rajapruek Park or Wat Phra That Doi Kham. The Chinese temple Kuan Im Chokchai (5 stars) – this surprising little temple isn't mentioned in any guidebook. It's worth a visit for its dragon and tiger statues, which are interspersed with corridors covered in colorful murals. An impressive visit that might just change your impressions of Chiang Mai. Wat Muen Ngoen Kong (5 stars) – a little-known temple, but one that is undeniably charming. It boasts a beautiful Lanna-style ordination hall, a golden chedi, and a reclining Buddha in one of its halls. The Elephant Poopoo Paper Park (5 stars) is a lovely place, especially for families with children. Here, visitors can see how paper is made from elephant dung and try their hand at it, creating products from this paper in workshops. Khlong Mae Kha (5 stars): A small section of the Mae Kha Canal in Chiang Mai has been cleaned and renovated and has become one of the city's most popular attractions since 2021. While not a must-see in Chiang Mai, it's a charming spot that increasingly hosts events. Wat Suan Dok (5 stars): Not a must-see, but like Wat Chedi Luang, you can meet and talk with the monks. Bhubing Palace (5 stars): The interior of this royal palace is not open to the public, but the gardens, rose garden, reservoir, winter flowers, and centuries-old ferns are popular attractions. In my opinion, not a must-see, but interesting for flower and plant lovers. The palace is located near Doi Suthep Temple. Warorot Market (5 stars): The largest and most visited market in Chiang Mai. Spread across three floors in two large buildings separated by a street, it offers countless goods for sale. Tourists come out of curiosity to visit this impressive market. Pha Chor Grand Canyon (5 stars): This canyon is an hour's drive from Chiang Mai. Pha Chor is famous for its rock walls with columns formed by centuries of natural erosion. Despite its rather modest size, it is sometimes referred to as the Grand Canyon of Thailand. Wat Buppharam is undoubtedly of historical and architectural interest, but it is most famous for its statue of Donald Trump.

Tours in and around Chiang Mai: This selection includes tours, excursions, and activities in Chiang Mai that I have personally tested or that have been tested by trusted individuals, as well as offers from agencies and websites known for their reliability and quality. Comfortable stay with the Karen (English-speaking accommodation): Spend 2 or 3 days in a Karen mountain village with a comfortable host family. Experience their daily life, their activities, and encounter elephants in a respectful environment. An unforgettable and unique adventure! Details & booking. Intensive stay in a Karen mountain village (English-speaking accommodation): Immerse yourself in the life of the Karen people in a small village in the mountains of Chiang Mai. You will gain insights into their simple, nature-based rural life and learn about their culture, crafts, and cuisine. These moments will surely be among the highlights of your stay in Thailand. Details & Booking Two-Day Trekking Tour in Doi Inthanon and Ban Pa Pong Piang (Chiang Mai) Offered in English Discover the nature and life of the Karen hill tribe in the Doi Inthanon mountains near Chiang Mai. This tour also takes you to some of Thailand's most beautiful rice terraces! Details & Booking Chiang Mai City Tour: Tha Pae Gate, Wat Umong & Local Market Offered in English Experience Chiang Mai up close! Explore the city, the famous Tha Pae Gate, visit the local market, and the unique Wat Umong, known for its forest location and tunnel system. Enjoy the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere dating back to the 13th century. Details & Booking Explore Doi Suthep & Wat Pha Lat Offered in English Visit Doi Suthep Temple, the most famous temple in Chiang Mai, with its exquisite Lanna architecture! From the temple, you'll have breathtaking panoramic views of Chiang Mai. Afterward, we'll visit Doi Pui National Park and the hidden temple of Wat Pha Lat! Details & Booking: Paramotor Flight over the Chiang Mai Landscape (English-speaking) Fly over the breathtaking landscape of Chiang Mai, mountain ridges, fields, and rice paddies as far as the eye can see, and enjoy stunning views above the clouds. Paramotor flights are available during the day or at sunrise and sunset. An unforgettable experience in Chiang Mai! Details & Booking: Two-Day Trekking Tour to Doi Inthanon with a Visit to a Karen Village (English-speaking) Discover the jungle, the mountains, and the life of the Karen hill tribe during a two-day trek on Thailand's highest mountain. Your English-speaking Karen guide will amaze you with their magic tricks! Details & Booking: Trekking on the Sacred Jungle Trail to Doi Suthep Temple in Chiang Mai (English-speaking) Hike with a guide to Doi Suthep Temple, the most revered temple in Chiang Mai. The tour begins on the monks' trail and then leads you into the jungle. You will discover a forest temple and hidden waterfalls. Details & Booking Chiang Mai: Bua Tong Waterfalls and Picnic with a Local Guide (English-Speaking Tour) The Bua Tong Waterfalls in Chiang Mai are not only beautiful but also offer an unforgettable experience. Climb the limestone falls and refresh yourself in the verdant pool. Details & Booking Evening Street Food Stroll at Chiang Mai Gate (English-Speaking Tour) When in Chiang Mai, you'll find numerous food stalls at Chiang Mai Gate, just south of the Old City moat. The stalls at Chiang Mai Gate are open daily from 5 pm to 10 pm, and I'll take you there! Let's go! Details & Booking Chiang Mai: Bamboo Rafting with Local Lunch (English-Speaking Tour) We drive for one hour from Chiang Mai to Mae Wang. From there, we continue to the river, where we'll raft for about 30 minutes. A raft can accommodate 3-4 people, depending on weight. You can also raft alone or with a guide! Details & Booking Try the 10 Must-Try Dishes in Chiang Mai (English-speaking tour) I'll take you to 10 local restaurants in Chiang Mai that I've personally selected for you – as a true connoisseur of the city! I'll show you what we eat here every day. Look forward to an exceptional day filled with delicious food! Details & Booking Almsgiving & Temple Visit in Chiang Mai (English-speaking tour) On this tour, we'll follow the guidance of a local guide to present your offering to the monks early in the morning. Typically, rice, fresh fruit, and a traditional dessert are placed in the alms bowl. Afterward, we'll visit Chiang Mai's most important temples and discover the history of this peaceful city. Details & Booking Chiang Mai Trip: Umbrella Village, Woodcarving Village & Unique Silver Temple (English-speaking tour) Visit the Bo Sang umbrella-making center in Sankampaeng and admire silverware and Thai silk. You can get a tattoo or buy unique T-shirts or phone cases that artists will paint or design for you in 10 minutes. See wood carving in Baan Tawai. And visit the impressive Silver Temple. Details & Booking: Private 3-hour vegetable and fruit carving class in Chiang Mai! (Teached in English) Experience the Thai art of vegetable and fruit carving in this 3-hour private class in Chiang Mai! You will learn traditional Thai carving techniques and transform local fruits and vegetables into your own unique works of art! Details & Booking: Activities and excursions in Chiang Mai

Tours from Chiang Mai with TakeMeTour (advertisement): Visit historic Lamphun, enjoy a meal with locals in the countryside, and cook a Northern Thai-style dinner. Lamphun was the second capital of the Lanna Nation and is over 1300 years old. You'll learn about Lanna culture, the local lifestyle, Buddhist customs, and cuisine. We'll have lunch with locals in Lamphun and then cook a simple Northern Thai-style dinner at my home. Details & booking: TakeMeTour (advertisement). Famous Temples in Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai: Visit the most beautiful temples in Chiang Rai: one entirely in white and one entirely in blue! We'll also visit the unique Black House Museum, the Lotus Temple (unknown in Thailand), and enjoy one of the best Khao Soi (traditional Thai restaurants) in Chiang Rai for lunch. Details & booking: TakeMeTour (advertisement). Discover the hidden temple and secret village in Lampang: Join me and discover an unforgettable clifftop temple and the stunning scenery on the border between Lampang and Chiang Mai! Relax by a waterfall and in a hot spring! Details & Booking: TakeMeTour (advertisement) Sunset at the White Temple with homemade food on a farm: From Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, we'll visit the enchanting Blue Temple, enjoy an organic lunch and a Blue Latte at the Sawan Bon Din farm restaurant (paradise on earth), the Black House and Singha Park, and (weather permitting) experience the breathtaking sunset at the White Temple. Details & Booking: TakeMeTour (advertisement) Sightseeing and Northern Thai home cooking on a farm in Lamphun: Cook and eat like the locals! If you want to experience authentic Northern Thai cuisine (not just taste it!), let us make your wish come true. Learn how we prepare and serve these special dishes on our farm in Lamphun, and then explore the town. Details & Booking

Other sights to see in Thailand: The Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai) in the north of the island, near the airport. It is truly impressive. [arrow_circle_right] View details about the Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai). Emerald Cave: This cave, accessible only via an 80-meter-long natural tunnel from the sea, is a little gem with a skylight that opens onto a small beach with turquoise water. Certainly one of the most beautiful natural spots… [arrow_circle_right] View details about the Emerald Cave. Wat Ton Kaew and surroundings: This could be described as the old town of Lamphun, Nakhon Haripunchai. The most picturesque part is directly opposite Wat Haripunchai temple, on the other side of the bridge, leading up to Wat Ton Kaew. [arrow_circle_right] View details about Wat Ton Kaew and surroundings. Oh Poi Market: This charming little market with bamboo stalls, huts, and structures along the river is truly delightful and virtually unknown to foreign tourists. It also offers a rather unique attraction… arrow_circle_right Show details about the Oh Poi Market