Places to Visit in Chiang Mai Thailand

The  Chiang Mai Zoo is one of the most popular places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand. With a spread over 200 acres this zoo homes around 400 species of animals. Here you will get a chance to spot elephants and tigers along with some exotic creatures like penguins and koalas. Trekking and hiking are also some of the favourite things to do in Chiang Mai among the adventure junkies who visit the Chiang Mai Zoo. You can stroll on the zoo’s campus or take a jeep tour and see animals through the windows. This Zoo also has a bird park and aquarium, where you can see colourful birds and marine life. This place is perfect for nature lovers and families alike, giving a chance to learn about different animal species. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Huay Kaew Road
• Timings: 8 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• How to reach: Easily accessible from the city centre by car or taxi 
• Entry Fees: For Children – 70 THB and For Adults – 150 THB

Nestled in the old city Wat Chedi Laung is among Chiang Mai must-visit places. This temple is also known as the temple of the Great Stupa. Constructed back in the 14th century it has tree temples. This temple is home to the Emerald Buddha, which is one of the significant religious relics, making Wat Chedi Luang one of the best places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand. Observe the elephant sculpture’s ancient beauty and Lama-style architecture. This religious site attracts many devotees during Buddhist holidays and offers prayers. 

• Location: Phra Pok Klao Road, Chiang Mai’s Old City 
• Timings: 6 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• How to reach: Just a few minutes walk away from the city centre 
• Entry Fees: 40 THB

The Doi Suthep Temple is one of the most religious temples and also one of the most popular places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand. Located at Doi Suthep Mountain’s top this temple offers breathtaking views of the entire city. This temple is an example of great craftsmanship and architecture. To reach the temple you can either take a funicular railway or climb 306 steps by foot. Decorated with intricate carvings, the temple’s golden chedi has Buddha’s sacred relic. Cultural significance, serene atmosphere, and great architecture make Doi Suthep Temple among the famous Chiang Mai tourist destinations. 

• Location:  Doi Suthep Mountain, Chiang Mai
• Timings: 6 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• How to reach: Can reach by private transport or Songthaew (15 km from the city centre)
• Entry Fees: 30 THB

In the old city, you will find some of the best places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand. Taking from ancient temples, and bustling markets to museums, and other architectural marvels the old city of Chiang Mai has it all. Here you will also get to see many natural retreats like the Elephant Conservation Centre and Doi Inthanon National Park. There are many places for adventure junkies and history buffs as well. Shop for colourful paper umbrellas and hand-crafted cotton balls to take home and cherish the memory forever. Therefore, the old city of Chiang Mai has something for people of all age groups. 

• Location: Central Chiang Mai
• Timings: Open 24 hours (historical area)
• How to reach: Temples and Attractions at walking distance
• Entry Fees: Free 

Going on an elephant nature park tour is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai. Here visitors can indulge in all kinds of riding activities and also get a chance to play with these gentle mammals. You can listen to their rescue story while feeding them and watching them bathe. Spend a day with these playful creatures and learn about their behaviour. While exploring the serene surroundings you can savour delicious Thai meals and create memories with these playful creatures. 

• Location: Northern part of  Chiang Mai in Mae Taeng
• Timings: 8 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• How to reach: Take the shuttle service from Chiang Mai 
• Entry Fees: Day visit fees – 2,500 THB and Overnight fees – 5,000 THB

Popular as the Roof of Thailand, Doi Inthanon National Park is famous for its isolated towns, waterfalls, scenic views, birdwatching, and stunning sunset and sunrise views. The Chiang Mai sightseeing tour is incomplete without visiting the best tourist spot in the area. From here you can see some big and small peaks ranging from 865 to 2,565 meters in height. This is also Thailand’s one of the tallest mountain peaks and from here visitors can enjoy mesmerising sunsets and beautiful waterfalls. If you visit during January and December, you will get to see blooming Siamese Sakura flowers. 

• Location: Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai 
• Timings: 6 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• How to reach: Easily accessible by guided tours or private cars. 
• Entry Fees: For Adults – 100 THB and For Children – 50 THB

Wat Phra Singh is located on the northernmost island of Chiang Mai, the Wat Phra Singh is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the country. Dating back to the 14th century, the temple has a sacred Phra Singh Buddha image. Wat Phra Singh always tops the list of best places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand, allowing tourists to explore the country’s religious heritage and rich culture. One of the prime highlights of this temple is the gold-plated Pagoda.  

• Location: Singharat Road in Chiang Mai’s Old City 
• Timings: 6 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• How to reach: At walking distance from the Old city of Chiang Mai 
• Entry Fees: 20 THB

The Sunday Walking Street is among Chiang Mai must-visit places famous for great shopping experiences. The key highlights of this night market are the street food stalls and handmade products. Although it's a Sunday market, small shops and stalls are open and can be seen on Saturday also. Local families work for the entire week making the products to sell on the weekend which is why this Sunday market acts as their significant source of income. 

• Location: Ratchadamnoen Road in Chaing Mai’s Old City 
• Timings: 4 in the afternoon till 10 at night every Sunday 
• How to reach: A few minutes walk away from Old City or by Tuk Tuk 
• Entry Fees: Free for shopping only

Located away from the bustling city, this is one of the top attractions in Chiang Mai which attracts visitors who want to spend some peaceful time amidst nature. Famous for limestone deposits creating a good grip, allows visitors to ascend and descend the waterfall without slipping, this is the reason behind naming it Sticky Waterfalls. This is one of the popular Chiang Mai tourist destinations that attracts visitors during the dry season, climbing up to the waterfall is easier because of the lower water flow. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Bua Thong
• Timings: 8 in morning till 5 in evening 
• How to reach: Can reach easily by taxi or private car 
• Entry Fees: Free

Inspired by Singapore’s night Safari, the Chiang Mai Night Safari has a variety of fun-filled activities that allow you to enjoy the sights of animals at night. There are three zones namely Savanna Safari, Jungle Jaguar Trail, and  Predator Prawl. This place is a must-visit for both kids and adults. If you are planning a trip to Thailand’s Chiang Mai then this place must be included in your Chiang Mai itinerary for a memorable wildlife adventure. There are over 300 animals of 34 distinct species in the Savanna Safari Zone. In the Predator Prowl Zone, you can spot animals like crocodiles, waterbucks, lions, hyenas, and Asiatic black bears. You can also take a stroll on the Jungle Jaguar Trail to spot animals like sloth bears, white tigers, leopard cats, and many more. 

• Location: Southern part of Chiang Mai 
• Timings: 6 in the morning till 9 in the evening 
• How to reach: Self-drive, hire, a taxi, or a private vehicle 
• Entry Fees: For Adults – 500 THB and For Children – 300 THB

Nimmanhaemin Road, also known as Nimman, is one of the famous places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand. This place is well-known for its bustling social scene, vibrant street life, and diverse offerings. This bustling area is great for visitors willing to experience Thailand’s vibrant nightlife. Various types of dining options from street food stalls to luxury restaurants offering fine dining experiences are available here. This place is perfect to learn about the modern culture of Chiang Mai and have a unique experience on your trip to Thailand. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Nimmanhaemin 
• Timings: Shops open from – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, restaurants/cafes vary 
• How to reach: Walk from nearby places, take a tuk-tuk, or hire a taxi 
• Entry Fees: Free (dining and shopping costs may vary)

Get ready to explore a natural wonder nestled in Chiang Mai’s Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. This beautiful waterfall offers a chance to reconnect with nature with its lush greenery and cascading waters. Here you can explore the trails and soak in the park’s scenic beauty. The clear and cool water of this waterfall attracts nature lovers to rejuvenate and relax amidst a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Hiking here is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai and provides a memorable experience for all nature lovers. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Mae Sa Valley
• Timings: 7 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• How to reach: private vehicle or taxi 
• Entry Fees: 100 THB 

Located on the old city’s eastern side, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is amongst the best places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand for shopaholics. Here you will find stalls selling decor items, clothing, accessories, toys, artwork, and electronic items. This place is also famous for local Thai dishes like pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and spring rolls. The shops become alive at night in every sense. Shop for things to take home and after that, you can savour delicious dishes at the restaurants located in a line along the street. 

• Location: Chang Klan Road 
• Timings: 6 in the morning till midnight 
• How to reach: Take a Tuk Tuk or reach by foot from the central Chiang Mai 
• Entry Fees: Free (cost for shopping may vary)

Wat Umong is one of the oldest Chiang Mai temples which is 700 years old and offers a serene escape into the lap of nature. This temple offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and spirituality. The prime attraction of Wat Umong is the distinctive network of ancient tunnels decorated with images of Buddha and intricate murals. These tunnels offer perfect meditative experiences, giving visitors a chance to connect with the spirituality of the temple. The temple also has tranquil ponds,  lush greenery, and a beautiful chedi creating a perfect set-up for those seeking tranquillity.

• Location: Suthep Road in Chiang Mai 
• Timings: 6 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• How to reach: Can reach easily by Tuk Tuk 
• Entry Fees: 30 THB

The Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden always tops the list of the most peaceful and serene places to visit in Chiang Mai thailand. Nestled amidst rainforests this garden is ideal for nature lovers looking for a serene escape. With a visit to this garden, you will get to learn about Thailand’s wide range of flora and fauna. Explore diverse plant collections along with endangered and rare species. You can rent a motorbike to get to the garden while enjoying the breathtaking scenery on the way.

• Location: Mae Rim, Chiang Mai 
• Timings: 8:30 in the morning till 4:30 in the evening 
• How to reach: Private car or Taxi 
• Entry Fees: THB 100 

The Art in Paradise is Chiang Mai’s biggest 3D museum and also an exciting and fun-filled place. Throughout the museum, you’ll see more than 300 artistic illusion images. Visitors can interact with the artwork and create imaginative photos. You will get many opportunities for creative photography offering several different themes. This place is suitable for people of all age groups and you can plan a family visit. 

• Location: Chang Klan Road in Chiang Mai 
• Timings: 9 in the morning till 9 at night 
• How to reach: Easily accessible by foot from the Night Bazaar area or by taxi 
• Entry Fees: For Adults 400 THB and Children 200 THB 

The Bo Sang Umbrella Village is among one of the most interesting Chiang Mai tourist spots which showcases painted fans and umbrellas. Known for its natural surroundings and handcrafted items, visiting this place offers a chance to learn about Thailand’s culture and traditional industries. Walk along the colourful streets, admire artisans at work, and enjoy a rich cultural experience. This is one of the best places to visit in Chiang Mai for tourists looking for a budget-friendly destination in Thailand. Here you can explore the vibrant local markets, meet skilled craftsmen, and take Thailand's artistic heritage home. 

• Location: Bo Sang in Chiang Mai’s Southern Part 
• Timings: 9 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• How to reach: Tuk-tuk or taxi 
• Entry Fees: Free (cost for shopping may vary)

Are you looking for a place to relax your tense muscles and wash away all your stress? Visit the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs which is one of the best places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand. This hot water spring features 105-degree Celsius temperature. This place has a long pool where visitors can dip their feet and enjoy, a separate pool for kids is also there to keep them engaged. After a calming long dip in the pool, you can try delicious local dishes nearby. There are many massage parlours also available near the pool.

• Location: San Kamphaeng in Chiang Mai 
• Timings: 8 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• How to reach: Reach by private vehicle or Taxi 
• Entry Fees: 40 THB

Kalare Night Market is one of those wonderful Chiang Mai tourist spots that offers cultural experiences to visitors. This is a perfect place to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife scenes. The presence of enthusiastic foreigners and locals creates a lively atmosphere in the market. From here you can buy a wide variety of products from clothing to jewellery and electronics to artworks. If you are planning a trip to Thailand, this vibrant Kalare Night Market should be on your Chiang Mai itinerary. While exploring this market, remember to watch a nightly traditional Thai dance performance.

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Chang Klan Road
• Timings: 6 in the morning till 11 at night 
• How to reach: Walking distance from the Night Bazaar area or take a tuk-tuk
• Entry Fees: Free (cost for dining and shopping may vary)

Get ready to witness the majestic wild cats closely with a visit to Chaing Mai’s Tiger Kingdom which is also one of the most popular and perfect places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand. This place is home to over a dozen tigers. Here you can interact with these creatures as they are treated to interact with humans by birth. Tourists can feed, pet, and get their pictures clicked with the tiger. After this interaction, you can rest in the Bengal Restaurant and try the delicious a la carte menu. Tiger Kingdom is a perfect place that combines excitement and knowledge. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s northern Part 
• Timings: 8 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• How to reach: Easily accessible by private vehicle or Taxi 
• Entry Fees: For Adults 90 THB and Children 30 THB

The Lanna Folklife Museum is one of the famous Chiang Mai cultural sites that offers a glimpse of northern Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. If you are willing to learn about the history and culture of this region then visiting this museum is probably one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai. The beauty of this building will mesmerise the architecture lover in you, while the wonderful artifacts will fill your heart with excitement. Ranging from artworks and sculptures to tools and textiles this museum has several things to see and capture in the camera. 

• Location: Prapokkloa Road in Chiang Mai’s Old City 
• Timings: 8:30 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• How to reach: At walking distance from the city centre 
• Entry Fees: For Adults 90 THB and Children 30 THB

Wiang Kum Kam is a historic settlement along the Ping River and is one of the prominent places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand from an archaeological point of view. Built under the reign of King Mangrai the Great, this city was the capital of the Lanna Kingdom in earlier times. If you are in Chiang Mai then don’t miss this place and explore its different crannies and nooks to learn about the culture and architecture of the Lanna Kingdom back then. 

• Location: Old City’s southern Part near the Ping River 
• Timings: 8 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• How to reach: Accessible by bicycle, private transport, or tuk-tuk
• Entry Fees: 20 THB

The Saturday Walking Street Market is one of the best places to visit in Chiang Mai Thailand. This market is best known for various shops offering products at lower prices. There is something for everyone whether you are a shopaholic, a foodie, or someone looking for an interesting evening in Chiang Mai. This vibrant Saturday walking street market attracts many locals and tourists alike with its lively atmosphere and the variety of things available including aluminium sculptures, Silverware, handicrafts, clothes, and many more. 

• Location: Wua Lai Road in Chiang Mai, Old City 
• Timings: 4 in the afternoon in 10 at night (every Saturday)
• How to reach: A few minutes walk away from Old City or by Tuk Tuk 
• Entry Fees: Free (costs for shopping are different)

Prepare yourself for Flight of the Gibbon, which is an exciting ziplining adventure through Chiang Mai’s lush jungles. This experience will make you feel like a bird offering breathtaking views of the rainforests. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, trained guides are there from platform to platform. Ziplining in Chiang Mai is one of the perfect ways to experience the beauty of nature and create memories to cherish for a lifetime. 

• Location: Mae Kampong, Chiang Mai 
• Timings: Morning and afternoon sessions starting from 7:30 am  
• How to reach: Book a shuttle service from Chiang Mai 
• Entry Fees: Package price starts from 2000 THB