THINGS TO DO IN CHIANG MAI

Visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the important parts of completing the cultural exploration tour of Chiang Mai. Established in 1383 by King Keu Naone this is one of the sacred temples in this region. Located on the top of a mountain visitors need to climb around 306 steps of the staircase to reach here. It can be tiring for some people but upon reaching you see a collection of statues and stunning architecture and soak in the serenity of this divine site. Besides all this, the views from the top of the mountain are just eye-pleasing. 

• Location: Doi Suthep Mountain in Chiang Mai
• Timings: From 6 in the morning till 8 in the evening
• Entry fees: No entry fee for locals and THB 50 for foreigner
• Price: For Tram – 20 to 50 THB and Tours – THB 300+

 1. Wat Chedi Luang

You can find temples in every corner of Chiang Mai and these temples attract people seeking a spiritual experience. The Wat Chedi Luang, also known as Temple of Great Stupa is located in the old city of Chiang Mai and it is the ruin of Buddhist temples. Wat Chedi Luang is home to the main religious relics of Thailand, the Emerald Buddha. Following an earthquake in 1545, it was shifted to the Grand Palace of Bangkok and is home to Buddhist shrines and monks, this temple is still an active place for worship. The prime attractions of this place are the stone carvings, the main chedi, elephant sculptures, emerald Buddha, and the reclining Buddha. This must have been the largest structure in this region but was diminished after the earthquake, but remains the best attraction in Chiang Mai. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s old city on Phra Pok Klao Road
• Timings: Usually from 6 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• Entry fees: Around 40 THB 
• Price: 300 THB for a guided tour; donations are also encouraged

2. Wat Phra Singh

The Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai is one of the most admired temples and visiting this is one of the most loved things to do in Chiang Mai. This popular heritage site was established in 1345 by the Mangrai Dynasty’s Phaya Payoo. This is one of the best Chiang Mai temples to visit which lets you soak in the tranquillity and witness the magnificent structures of this city. You can see this temple anytime between 8 am to 4 pm. Make sure you are dressed properly when visiting the temples. This temple complex also has many important and old images of Buddha including a Reclining Buddha and it is also home to monks. You need to remember a few things during your temple visits. Do not point feet towards Buddha statues or anyone else as it is considered disrespectful. Remove your shoes or hat before entering and dress properly.

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Old City on Sam Lan Road
• Timings: From 6 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• Entry fees: Around 20 THB 
• Price: Approx 30 to 50 THB for guided tours

3. Wat Chiang Man

Located in Chiang Mai’s heart, Wat Chiang Man is one of the oldest temples in the city, established in 1296. This temple holds immense cultural and historical significance and here you will see ancient relics and intricate Lanna-style architecture. If you are interested in learning about the history, visiting this ancient temple is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai.  Visiting the temples of Chiang Mai is one of the important parts if you are on a cultural tour. Showcasing the perfect blend of Sinhalese and Lanna styles of architecture, this temple has some amazing artworks in the form of intricate paintings, Buddha Images, and Wooden Carvings.

Location: Chiang Mai’s Old City on Ratchaphakhinai Road

Tha Phae Gate located on Moon Muang Road is one of the prime landmarks in Chiang Mai. This gate is also famous for being a hub of festivals and cultural events held in the city throughout the year. The wall also used to be the boundary of Chiang Mai’s Old City. In today’s time, most of the wall has crumbled but Tha Phae Gate still stands tall. A hub for shops, restaurants, and cultural events, this place is also easily accessible from the other prime attractions in Chiang Mai, including the temples and vibrant night bazaars. 

• Location: Moon Muang Road in Chiang Mai’s Old City 
• Timings: 24 hours open 
• Entry fees: No fee applicable
• Price: Tour price starts from 300 THB  

Featuring the highest peak in Thailand, the Doi Inthanon National Park is a popular national park known for its waterfalls, birdwatching, sunrise/sunset views, scenic hiking trails, and chilly weather that lasts throughout the year at higher elevations. Here you can trekking on the rugged terrain, enjoy the stunning views of nature, and visit the picturesque waterfalls. You will be truly amazed by the mesmerising sunrise views and a trek through the lush greenery and dense forests will provide a sense of tranquillity. Just a simple walk around the area can also enhance your overall experience of visiting the national park. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Chom Thong District 
• Timings: From 5:30 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• Entry fees: 50 THB for locals and 300 THB for foreigners
• Price: Around 1000 THB for guided tours

Located on the eastern side of old Chiang Mai City, the bustling Night Bazaar is one of the most loved places among shopaholics, here you can shop for clothes, decor items, accessories, electronics, toys, and artworks. This place is also perfect for people who want to savour authentic Thai delicacies like pad Thai curry, mango sticky rice, and spring rolls. The bazaar comes alive at night and shopkeepers start preparing for this in the evening by lying in their stalls. Shop from the markets and enjoy a delicious meal afterwards. You can also enjoy parties in the vibrant nightclubs. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Chang Khlan Road
• Timings: From 6 in the evening till 12 at midnight 
• Entry fees: No fee applicable 
• Price: Free exploration; shopping budget may vary between 200 to 1000 THB

If you enjoy exploring royal structures or if you are interested in architecture, visiting the Bhubing Palace is one of the ideal things to do in Chiang Mai. This palace served as the residence of King Rama in earlier times and now it is a winter residence for the royal family. In the gardens of this palace, you will get to see some beautiful blooming flowers, making this place ideal for visiting with friends and family. You can visit here anytime between 8:30 am to 3:30 pm and enjoy a perfect day with your companions.

• Location: Doi Buak Ha located near Doi Suthep
• Timings: From 8:30 in the morning till 3:30 in the evening 
• Entry fees: Around 50 THB 
• Price: 300 THB for guided tours

The Grand Canyon is the largest outdoor waterpark in Chiang Mai which is something for people of all ages including the children’s pool, floating playground, and big slides. This place is ideal for adventure junkies who love water activities like giant slides, ziplining, wakeboarding, and many others. Covering a total area of around 35 acres, the Grand Canyon is the only outdoor and natural waterpark in Chiang Mai. Your kids can also enjoy the children’s pool and have fun. After a fun-filled day, you can savour Western and Thai dishes at the Grill Restaurant. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Hang Dong District
• Timings: From 9 in the morning till 6 in the evening
• Entry fees: Around 100 to 150 THb (depending on the activity)
• Price: Packages for ziplining and Swimming start from THB 300

Thai cuisine is famous for its salty, sour, and spicy ingredients. Here you can take Lanna Cooking Classes that allow you to learn how to make dishes like chilli paste from scratch and Khao Soi. Lanna Cuisine is a type of food from the northern part of Thailand and during a cooking class, you can learn to make dishes like spicy sausage, noodles, jackfruit, and prof belly. There will be an anthropologist guide who will share some insights about the local culture. Participants also get to visit the local market to learn about the spices and get to know about the local food scene. Taking a Lanna cooking class is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai and these classes take place in an open space. 

• Location: Cooking schools in Chiang Mai 
• Timings: Between 8:30 am to 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm 
• Entry fees: Starting from THB 1000 (depending on the duration of the class)
• Price: Between 1000 to 2500 THB

Chiang Mai’s Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries are rehabilitation centers for elephants. These creatures are allowed to roam freely in these sanctuaries and the volunteers and workers there take care of them very well. Most of the elephants in these sanctuaries are reduced from being abused at tour services, circuses, or in the wild. Tourists and visitors can also learn about their rehabilitation, and way of living, and get a chance to feed and bathe them. Some of the famous Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai are Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Maesa Jungle Sanctuary, Elephant Care Centre, and Baan Chang Elephant Park. 

• Location: Areas near Chiang Mai like Mae Wang and Mae Wang
• Timings: From 8 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• Entry fees: Starting from 2500 THB for half day 
• Price: THB 2500 t0 6000 (depending on the package)

If you are willing to have Chiang Mai cultural experiences and want to learn about Handicrafts, Bor Sang Umbrella Village is one of the best things to do here. This village is just km from the main city and it is famous for locally crafted colourful umbrellas. The paper used in making these umbrellas is produced from mulberry tree’s bark and to enhance the visual representation these umbrellas are decorated with traditional designs. During your visit to the Bor Sang Villag, you can also meet locals about umbrella making and other products made of the same paper. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s San Kamphaeng Road
• Timings: From 9 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• Entry fees: Around 100 to 300 THB 
• Price: 200 THB for handmade umbrellas

The Karen Hill Tribe is found in the villages of Chiang Mai and originated in Tibet. These are Thailand’s largest ethnic minority group. The tribe consists of 4 subgroups, each with its traditions, language, and attire. The Karen Hill Tribe attracts several tourists to Chiang Mai. The long necks are the most prominent group among the Karen Hill Tribe, famous for women wearing brass rings around their necks. The Karen Hill Tribe Village is the best attraction in Chiang Mai and here you will get a chance to interact with the local tribe and learn about their history and customs. 

• Location: Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai 
• Timings: Can visit anytime 
• Entry fees: No fee applicable 
• Price: 1000 to 2500 THB for guided tours

1. Songkran Festival (Thai New Year)

The Northern capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai celebrated many cultural festivals throughout the year. Some of the festivals are also celebrated all around the globe. People celebrate these festivals with great enthusiasm and Zeal and participating in one will be a kind experience for you. One of the popular festivals celebrated here is Songkran, also known as Thai New Year and Water Festival. This is celebrated countrywide and water fights are common during this time. Visiting Chiang Mai during Songkran is the perfect time. This festival usually falls in April every year. 

• Location: Celebrated Nationwide 
• Timings: Between 13 to 15 April annually 
• Entry fees: No fee applicable 
• Price: Budget for transport, water guns, and food.

2. Loi Krathong Festival

Another famous festival celebrated in Chiang Mai is the Loi Krathong Festival. People release numerous lanterns, which look like stars in the deep blue sky. People also float decorated baskets with candles in the river. You can see fireworks all over the sky, adding a touch of magic. The krathrong are made by people and they use flowers, banana leaves, incense sticks, and candles. The sight of floating candles and lanterns is just a treat to one’s eyes. Cultural performances and events including dance and music, offer a chance to experience Thai culture. 

• Location: Celebrated Nationwide, along the Ping River 
• Timings: In November (the date is announced according to the lunar calendar)
• Entry fees: No entry fee applicable 
• Price: Around 50 to 500 THB for snacks, krathongs, and lanterns

1. Songkran Festival (Thai New Year)

The Northern capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai celebrated many cultural festivals throughout the year. Some of the festivals are also celebrated all around the globe. People celebrate these festivals with great enthusiasm and Zeal and participating in one will be a kind experience for you. One of the popular festivals celebrated here is Songkran, also known as Thai New Year and Water Festival. This is celebrated countrywide and water fights are common during this time. Visiting Chiang Mai during Songkran is the perfect time. This festival usually falls in April every year. 

• Location: Celebrated Nationwide 
• Timings: Between 13 to 15 April annually 
• Entry fees: No fee applicable 
• Price: Budget for transport, water guns, and food.

2. Loi Krathong Festival

Another famous festival celebrated in Chiang Mai is the Loi Krathong Festival. People release numerous lanterns, which look like stars in the deep blue sky. People also float decorated baskets with candles in the river. You can see fireworks all over the sky, adding a touch of magic. The krathrong are made by people and they use flowers, banana leaves, incense sticks, and candles. The sight of floating candles and lanterns is just a treat to one’s eyes. Cultural performances and events including dance and music, offer a chance to experience Thai culture. 

• Location: Celebrated Nationwide, along the Ping River 
• Timings: In November (the date is announced according to the lunar calendar)
• Entry fees: No entry fee applicable 
• Price: Around 50 to 500 THB for snacks, krathongs, and lanterns

Ziplining is considered one of the thrilling adventure activities in Chiang Mai as it lets you soar through the forests and jungles surrounding this beautiful city. Many ziplining operators offer this thrilling experience, allowing participants to glide over the valleys, river, and treetops while enjoying the stunning views of mountain landscapes. You can choose a zipline package according to the preferred length and difficulty level you seek. This activity is most popular among adventure junkies and nature enthusiasts, as this provides a unique way of exploring the natural beauty of Chiang Mai along with the thrilling experience. 

• Location: Forested areas near Chiang Mai including Mae Rim and Mae Kampong
• Timings: From 8 in the morning till 4 in the afternoon 
• Entry fees: Included in the price of the tour package 
• Price: Around 2500 to 4000 THB per person

Ziplining is considered one of the thrilling adventure activities in Chiang Mai as it lets you soar through the forests and jungles surrounding this beautiful city. Many ziplining operators offer this thrilling experience, allowing participants to glide over the valleys, river, and treetops while enjoying the stunning views of mountain landscapes. You can choose a zipline package according to the preferred length and difficulty level you seek. This activity is most popular among adventure junkies and nature enthusiasts, as this provides a unique way of exploring the natural beauty of Chiang Mai along with the thrilling experience. 

• Location: Forested areas near Chiang Mai including Mae Rim and Mae Kampong
• Timings: From 8 in the morning till 4 in the afternoon 
• Entry fees: Included in the price of the tour package 
• Price: Around 2500 to 4000 THB per person

The Crazy Horse Buttress is a famous rock climbing spot in Thailand near Chiang Mai. This place has 150 types of routes with different difficulty levels. You can choose any one of them according to your suitability. There are limestone rocks that offer the best grip and climbing these is challenging. This area is blessed with lush rainforests, offering breathtaking views. Whether you are an experienced climber or a beginner, the Crazy Horse Buttress offers a thrilling and unforgettable experience. You will be truly amazed by the views from the cliff, showcasing the beauty of the Thai countryside. 

Being a mountain biker paradise Chiang Mai has amazing downhill slopes and scenic trails. The Twin peaks of Doi Pui and Doi Suthep are the two most popular spots for mountain biking in Chiang Mai. The legendary biking trails here attract thousands of bikers from all over the globe. These trails offer great views of the landscapes to both first-timers and experienced bikers. Dropping down the rolling hill, and watching the jungle and green trees fading away will satisfy your adrenaline rush. Some of the best mountain biking trails are Doi Pui North Ridge, Bamboo Trail, Gee House Trail, Scout Camp, and Buddha Footprint Trail. 

• Location: Doi Suthep-Pui National Park and other hilly areas nearby 
• Timings: 6 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• Entry fees: 300 to 500 THB for entry fee 
• Price: 1500 to 3000 THB for guided tours and biking rentals

Situated on the slopes of Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium is the oldest zoo in Thailand. This Zoo and Aquarium represents numerous species and this place attracts many tourists as the tourists get to see two attractions in one place. Visiting Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium is one of the favourable things to do for families, especially with young kids. This place houses over 400 animal species including elephants, zebras, giraffes, pandas, and tigers. Enjoy walking through a 133-meter-long aquarium tunnel and looking over a hundred fish species. Don’t miss out the endangered species like the Humboldt penguin and Giant Pandas. 

• Location: Chiang Mai, Huay Kaew Road 
• Timings: From 8 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• Entry fees: 70 THB for children and 150 THB for adults 
• Price: Extra charges for Tram service and Aquarium (around 200 to 300 THB)

Showcasing a different level of creativity through the unique collection of 3D paintings, the Art in Paradise 3D Museum is one of the best attractions in Chiang Mai where you can have fun with your family. This creative museum has 6 different zones, each one featuring 3D murals, where you can get some quirky pictures clicked. Whether you want to be inside an art painting or in a scene of ancient Egypt, this museum has it all. Spending a few hours with your family and getting clicked is one of the most exciting things to do in Chiang Mai. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Changklan Road 
• Timings: From 9 in the morning till 8:30 at night 
• Entry fees: 200 THB for children and 300 THB for adults 
• Price: Children under 100 cm are free

Chiang Mai Night Safari is a nocturnal zoo that offers a variety of exciting and fun-filled activities, allowing you to enjoy the wilderness of animals at night. There are three main zones here, Jungle Jaguar Trail, Predator Prawl, and Savanna Safari letting you encounter majestic animals. This place is a must-visit for both adults and kids, making it perfect for family tours. Covering an area of over 300 acres, it is 2nd largest nocturnal zoo which provides a wonderful night safari experience. This is also one of the unique things to do in Chiang Mai and with this you get a chance to witness over 130 species of animals in the three different zones. 

• Location: Hang Dong District in Chiang Mai 
• Timings: From 5:30 in the evening till 11:00 at night 
• Entry fees: 400 THB for children and 800 THB for adults 
• Price: Packages for additional activities and tram rides are available

The Huay Tung Tao Lake in Chiang Mai is a man-made reservoir, an ideal waterside location for spending a day with family. This lake features stunning views of Doi Suthep mountains, grass huts alongside the landscapes, and calming waters. There are dozens of restaurants where you can grab a bite and just lay back and relax with a refreshing drink. The tranquil water surrounded by lush greenery offers a peaceful escape into the lap of nature. The most common ways to discover the beauty of this lake are through a scenic boat ride or simply spending some time by the shore. If you are an adventure junkie then you can embark on a 7 km long hike, taking you up to a point from where you can have panoramic views of the landscapes. 

• Location: Chiang Mai, Mae Rim District
• Timings: From 7 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• Entry fees: Around 50 THB per person 
• Price: Price for food stalls and bamboo huts may vary

Nestled in the lush and picturesque setting, the Ratchapruek Royal Flower Garden is popular for its intricate architecture and art and it attracts several tourists throughout the year. In 2006, this place was also the site for the Royal Flora Expo and since then the garden has become popular among tourists and locals alike. If you want to see Ratchaphruek in full bloom then consider planning your trip to Chiang Mai between December and January. This place is not just a tourist attraction but this is also a unique learning and research centre for the people. You can also drive to Wat Doi Kham temple, located around 3 km away and from here you can get great views of the garden and other surroundings. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Mae Hia Sub-district
• Timings: From 8 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• Entry fees: THB 50 for children and THB 100 for Adults 
• Price: Free for students 

Exploring the Sunday Walking Street Market is one of the most essential things to do in Chiang Mai as this is the best way to experience the nightlife and entertainment in Chiang Mai. The lively atmosphere and charm of this place attract many visitors every Sunday to visit, indulge in shopping, share happy moments, and enjoy delicious Thai delicacies from the local street food vendors. This market has a lot of things to offer ranging from clothes, handicrafts, Thai massages, and lip-smacking Thai street food. You can visit this market till midnight and have fun along with shopping and enjoying Chiang Mai’s vibrant nightlife. 

• Location: Rachadamnoen Road in Chiang Mai’s Old City 
• Timings: On Sundays, from 4 in the evening till 11:00 at night 
• Entry fees: No fee applicable 
• Price: Shopping price may vary (items start from 10 to 50 THB)

Visiting the live music bars is one of the ideal things to do in Chiang Mai at night. There is something that suits everyone’s taste. The Moat House is one of the best bars where you can enjoy live music performances in a relaxed atmosphere. On the other hand, Nimman Bar showcases different types of music genres from acoustic sets to energetic rock bands. There are many other live music bars beyond these to ensure there is always a place to catch a lively performance and enjoy the night with your friends.

• Location: The Good View Bar, North Gate Jazz Co-Op, Moat House, and other popular venues. 
• Timings: From 6 in the evening till midnight 
• Entry fees: No entry fee applicable 
• Price: Around 80 to 150 THB for drinks

The capital of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is famous for its lush landscapes and temples. But as the sun sets, this vibrant city becomes a haven for party lovers, offering a variety of entertainment options that suit everyone’s taste. One of the best ways to experience this city’s nightlife is by visiting the rooftop bars. Chiang Mai has many rooftop bars which offer amazing views of the city. Here you can enjoy delicious dishes and refreshing handcrafted cocktails. Some popular rooftop bars in Chiang Mai are Rise Rooftop Bar, The Riverside, Nimman Bar, and a few others. These rooftop bars also feature live music, making your experience even more exciting and enjoyable. 

• Location: Rise, Rooftop Bar, The Riverside, and Nimman Bar in Chiang Mai’s old city and Nimmanhaemin. 
• Timings: From 5 in the evening till midnight 
• Entry fees: No fee applicable 
• Price: Around 150-300 THB for drinks

Chiang Mai offers a traditional Lanna dining experience, known as Khantoke Dinner. Here guests are seated on the low wooden table which is known as khantoke a delicious traditional Thai cuisine is served to them. The dishes included in this meal are curries, sticky rice, and stir-fries, curries. During this dinner, you can also enjoy live dance and music performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Chiang Mai region. A traditional Khantoke Dinner is not just about having a meal; it is a cultural experience that lets you connect with Chiang Mai’s soul and heart. 

• Location: Khum Khantoke and Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center
• Timings: From 6:30 in the evening till 9:30 at night 
• Entry fees: No entry fee 
• Price: Around 300 to 500 THB for children and THB 600 to 800 for adults

The white temple of Chiang Rai, also known as Wat Rong Khun is one of the most popular attractions here. This temple is an architectural wonder on its own, filled with ornate reliefs, mirror decorations, and Buddhist elements. The temple’s white colour showcases the sacredness and purity of Buddha’s teachings. This temple also has a golden building, representing the worldly desire people seek and the white colour of the temple shows peace of mind. This is one of the Chiang Mai temples to visit on your day trip. 

• Location: Ban Rong Khun in Chiang Mai 
• Timings: From 8 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• Entry fees: THB 100 for adults and children below 12 years are free 
• Price: Entry fee includes temple entry

Nestled between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son, Pai is a beautiful town, a dream destination for travellers looking for a day trip from Chiang Mai. The Pai River flowing across this town makes it a popular spot for river rafting. Adventure junkies can also indulge in other thrilling activities like trekking and hiking. Pai is a stunning tourist spot for everyone whether you want a chilled vacation, a lazy day trip, or an adventurous journey. Here you can also visit a few attractions like the waterfalls, Burmese-style temples, and natural hot water springs. Sometimes people also meet with hill-tribe villagers for a natural and local experience. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Mae Hong Son Province
• Timings: 24 hours open 
• Entry fees: No entry fee; some viewpoints and cafes may charge a nominal fee 
• Price: Price for Activities and accommodation in Pai might vary

A man-made marvel, Chiang Dao is not just a tourist attraction. This is a charming place full of mysteries and natural wonders. The cave’s interior is patterned with naturally occurring stalactites and stalagmites. You must hire a guide for a tour of the cave’s interior that will provide you with a sense of curiosity and thrill. These guided tours of Chiang Dao caves give you a chance to explore the hidden wonders and other fascinating locations. This cave also has a fish pond, an ancient cave temple, and numerous religious idols, making Chiang Dao perfect for a day trip and keeping you engaged for hours. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Chiang Dao District
• Timings: 24 hours open 
• Entry fees: 40 THB for Chiang Dao Cave
• Price: Guided cave tours might cost THB 200 to 500 and transportation may cost around THB 500 to 1000.

Mae Kampong is a small mountain village in Chiang Mai, blessed with forests, streams, waterfalls, and mountains. This village promotes homestays and eco-tourism, providing a chance to meet locals, learn their traditions, and live like them. This village also has the only and oldest temple, Wat Mae Kampong. This temple is designed in Lanna concept and here you can see the age-old architecture. You can enjoy a homestay with a stunning ambience and serene views and the Mae Kampong flowing through the village offers a variety of water sports and other activities. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Mae On District
• Timings: 24 hours open 
• Entry fees: Village visits are free; fee might be applicable for guided tours 
• Price: Homestay price may range from THB 500 to 1500 (based on the type of stay you choose)

Bamboo Rafting in Chiang Mai’s Mae Wang River is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai. Visitors will get to enjoy sitting on the bamboo-built rafts and there will be an experienced caption rowing over the river passing through the small villages, mountains, rainforests, elephant sanctuaries, and waterfalls. This eco-friendly activity, allows you to enjoy rafting in a peaceful ambience and reconnect with nature. Bamboo rafting is one of the authentic and traditional ways to explore Chiang Mai and enjoy a relaxing journey. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Mae Wang
• Timings: From 9 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• Entry fees: No entry fee
• Price: Ranges from 800 to 1500 THB (including rafting gear and guides)

1. Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Thong)

The Bua Thong Waterfall, also known as Sticky Waterfalls is a beautiful fall made up of minerals and limestone deposits. This waterfall is referred to as a sticky waterfall because limestone generates fiction and this prevents you from slipping even on the watery rocks. You can easily climb up to the waterfall with the help of ropes. The rocks that form Bua Thong waterfalls are bubble-shaped, and placed on one another. The lush green surroundings make this location pleasant and soothing, ideal for people looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Mae Taeng District
• Timings: From 8 in the morning till 5 in the evening 
• Entry fees: No entry fee applicable 
• Price: The price for transport is around 1500 to 2000 THB

2. Mae Sa Waterfalls

Situated amidst the lush rainforests, the Mae Sa waterfall is an 8-level waterfall that provides an ideal set-up for picnics near the lower ones. Adventure junkies can also trek to the higher tiers which are peaceful and less crowded as compared to the lower levels. Many local vendors sell local street food dishes to the people visiting this waterfall. Visitors can also indulge in the water activities available in the surrounding Mae Sa Valleys. These falls are not fast-moving and high, making them perfect for swimming. If you are looking for water activities in Chiang Mai, visiting the Mae Sa Waterfalls is one of the ideal things to do in Chiang Mai. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Mae Rim District
• Timings: From 8 in the Morning till 5 in the evening 
• Entry fees: Around 100 THB per person 
• Price: Transportation price is around 500 to 1500 THB (depending on the mode)

Kayaking is one of the perfect things to do in Chiang Mai to get the best water and land experience in the stunning Mae Ngat Reservoir. Enjoy paddling through the calm water, surrounded by limestone cliffs and the lush green mountains. This is a perfect outdoor activity in Chiang Mai, offering a chance to spot diverse wildlife, and hidden caves, and admire the beauty of this natural haven. This Kayaking activity is ideal for both beginner and experienced-level trekkers. Whether you seek a relaxed or adventurous experience, kayaking in Mae Ngat Reservoir will give you some of the best memories to cherish forever. 

• Location: Chiang Mai’s Sri Lanna National Park
• Timings: From 8 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• Entry fees: Around 200 THB 
• Price: Ranges from 300 to 600 THB kayak rental per hour

Chiang Mai is known for its traditional Thai massages, allowing one to let it all out and relax. This is a traditional healing technique that provides needful massage to your muscles as well as helps you relieve stress. This relaxing healing art focuses on wellness and circulation. Getting a Thai massage is one of the ideal things to do in Chiang Mai to cure travel fatigue and jet lag. A traditional Thai massage helps treat headaches, joint pain, circulation problems, and even anxiety. Getting a Thai massage is a must on your trip to Thailand. There are many wellness centres and spas in Chiang Mai like Wat Sum Pow, Getthawha Thai Massage, etc. 

• Location: Wat Sum Pow, Getthawha Thai Massage, and many others in Nimmanhaemin Road and Old City 
• Timings: 9 in the morning till 10 at night (time depends on the spa)
• Entry fees: No fee applicable 
• Price: From 200 to 800 THB per session

Chiang Mai is a popular destination for meditation retreats, offering a peaceful and serene environment. With this, you can deepen your spiritual practice and find inner peace. These meditation retreats are surrounded by lush greenery and temples and they offer meditation courses ranging from beginner-friendly to intensive courses. Chiang Mai provides many options to relax your soul, body, and mind whether you seek an immersive retreat or you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city life.

• Location: Wat Umong, Wat Suan Dok, and other Chiang Mai’s temples 
• Timings: Depends on the retreat (usually multiday or 1-day programs)
• Entry fees: No entry fee 
• Price: Ranges from 1000 to 1500 THB for guided programs including stay and meals

If you are a yoga enthusiast then the Yoga studios in Chiang Mai are one of the perfect places to visit. These Yoga studios cater to all styles and levels. The teachers in these yoga studios will help you learn the poses, relieve stress, and improve breathing problems. Some studios are in Thai buildings and some are in beautiful gardens. Some popular Yoga Studios in Chiang Mai are Satva Yoga, Freedom Yoga, and Wild Rose Yoga. Here you will get to learn about meditation techniques, that help you cultivate inner peace, strength, and flexibility. 

• Location: Satva Yoga, Freedom Yoga, Wild Rose Yoga, and other centres in Nimmanhaemin and Old City.  
• Timings: From 7 in the morning till 8 in the evening 
• Entry fees: No entry fee 
• Price: Ranges from 300 to 500 THB per class and monthly packages range from 2000 to 4000 THB.

The Warorot Market, also known as Kad Luang, close to the riverside is a perfect place to find everything – from spices and herbs to clothes and cosmetics, sunglasses, flowers, and dried condiments. This market is also known as the little Chinatown of Chiang Mai. Here you can shop for farm produce, fresh spices, footwear, local delicacies, bags, condiments, accessories, and domestic appliances. You can also buy souvenirs from the Watorot Market. This market is always buzzing with locals, making this place ideal for people willing to immerse themselves in Thai culture.

• Location: Chang Moi Road in Chiang Mai 
• Timings: From 5 in the morning till 6 in the evening 
• Entry fees: No entry fee 
• Price: Shopping in the market may cost between 1000 to 2000 THB

The Nimmanhaemin Road, also referred to as Nimman is a popular, vibrant area in Chiang Mai. It covers a 1 km area of apartment buildings, backstreets, and hidden treasures. The Nimmanhaemin Road is popular among the young crowd as they are attracted to the quirky cafes, boutique stores, vibrant street markets, and lively nightlife. This road is crowded and loud during the day. You can see busy restaurants during lunch hours, bustling markets, and bars welcoming everyone for the happy hours. As the sun sets, the place becomes a haven for party lovers followed by great live music performances. 

• Location: Nimmanhaemin Road
• Timings: 10 am to 9 pm for shops and 8 am to 11 pm for cafes and restaurants 
• Entry fees: No entry fee applicable 
• Price: Costs around 100 THB per dining; shopping costs may vary

The Saturday Night Market of Chiang Mai is the most loved place among tourists visiting Chiang Mai. This road has stalls selling Thai street food, local items, clothes, and handicrafts. The Saturday market comes alive at night and here you can witness colourful displays with a good crowd. After the market exploration, you can also enjoy a foot massage and wash away all your tiredness. This market has many more things beyond shopping. Visiting here allows one to experience the culture of the Chiang Mai night market and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere. Shop amazing items, experience the culture, and enjoy live dance and music performances with your friends and family.

• Location: Wualai Road, Chiang Mai’s old city 
• Timings: From 4 to 10 pm every Saturday 
• Entry fees: No entry fee 
• Price: Around 50 to 1000 THB for handmade items and 10 to 100 THB