What to do in Chiang Mai?

Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai offers the perfect balance of culture, nature and modernity. Far from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, it appeals to travelers looking for peaceful temples, eco-responsible activities, or a slower lifestyle, ideal for settling down for a few weeks.

Chiang Mai’s must-sees

🌟 The Old Town

The old city of Chiang Mai is an almost perfect square, surrounded by moats and portions of red brick walls. You can walk or cycle through it, between quiet streets, historic temples, small cafes and craft markets. The atmosphere is peaceful, almost timeless.

🛕 Wat Phra Singh & Wat Chedi Luang

Two of the most important temples in the city. Wat Phra Singh, with its sacred Buddha and delicate frescoes, is a masterpiece of Lanna art. The partially ruined Wat Chedi Luang impresses with its size and authenticity. It was once home to the famous Emerald Buddha.

🌄 Doi Suthep

30 minutes from the center, perched on the mountain, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is THE temple to visit. A staircase of 306 steps lined with naga (mythical snakes) leads you to a golden stupa with stunning views of the city. Prefer early morning or sunset.

🌙 Night markets

  • Sunday Night Market : the favorite market of locals and tourists. It takes over Ratchadamnoen Street every Sunday night with crafts, snacks, live music and a festive atmosphere.
  • Night Bazaar : more touristy but very convenient during the week. There are clothes, souvenirs, street food stalls and cheap massages.

🍜 Thai Cooking Class

Learn how to cook a green curry, spring rolls, or sticky rice mango with passionate local chefs. Classes often include a trip to the market to pick ingredients, making the experience even more immersive.

🎭 Culture and traditions

Watch a performance of traditional northern dances or learn about ancestral arts such as fruit carving, gold leaf painting or parasol making.

Nature and adventures in the surrounding area

🐘 Elephant Nature Park

Unlike conventional tourist camps, this sanctuary takes in abused elephants to provide them with a peaceful retreat. No walks here, but benevolent observation and help to the keepers to feed or wash the animals.

🥾 Mountain treks

Excursions of 1 to 3 days take you into the jungle, to meet ethnic minorities (Karen, Lahu…), with a night in a homestay and meals over a wood fire. A human and exotic experience.

💦 Waterfalls: Bua Thong & Mae Sa

  • Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong): Thanks to their grippy surface, you can climb directly into the waterfall with your bare hands! One of a kind.
  • Mae Sa Waterfall : in a national park accessible by scooter, with several levels, ideal for picnicking and cooling off.

🌲 Zipline and zip line

For thrill-seekers, canopy courses are available, such as Flight of the Gibbon, renowned for its safety standards and the beauty of its courses.

🛵 Samoeng Loop

A 100 km loop to be done by scooter, between mountain bends, rice fields, small cafes, strawberry greenhouses and waterfalls. Not very touristy, it is a great way to discover the northern countryside.