Chiang Mai Chiang Mai Province, Thailand Travel Guide
The city's ancient roots, visible in its temples and old city walls, blend seamlessly with modern cafes and artistic communities.
Beyond the urban core, surrounding mountains hold serene temples, refreshing waterfalls, and ethical elephant sanctuaries. Exploring Chiang Mai delivers a blend of spiritual discovery, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure.
The Monk Chat program at Wat Chedi Luang offers a distinct cultural exchange opportunity to converse with monks.
Chiang Mai has many small art galleries, especially in Nimmanhaemin and Baan Kang Wat artist village, demonstrating contemporary and traditional Thai art.
Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center stages traditional Khantoke dinner shows, combining a Northern Thai banquet with Lanna dance and hill tribe performances.
These spaces present insight into the region's history, art, and traditions.
Museums and cultural institutions deliver a discovery of Lanna heritage.
Many museums feature interactive exhibits for an engaging visit.
Beyond the prominent temples, Chiang Mai and its surroundings hold several other historical treasures.
Wiang Kum Kam: An ancient lost city predating Chiang Mai, briefly a Lanna Kingdom capital. Explore unearthed temple ruins by horse-drawn carriage or bicycle for a peaceful glimpse into a forgotten past.
The entire Old City acts as a historical district, with many smaller temples like Wat Chiang Man (the oldest in Chiang Mai) and traditional wooden houses tucked away on side streets.
Wat Suan Dok: A large temple complex with a royal cemetery, a teaching monastery, and a "Monk Chat" program. Wat Umong: A unique forest temple with ancient tunnels and meditation caves, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Tours of Wiang Kum Kam sometimes feature horse-drawn carriage rides, enriching the historical exploration. Find tours on GetYourGuide
Three Kings Monument: Located in the center of the Old City, it commemorates the three founding kings who collaborated to establish Chiang Mai, a symbol of the city's origins.
While largely reconstructed, walking along the remaining sections of the Old City walls and exploring the gates delivers a sense of historical enclosure.
This temple complex outside the Old City walls is a royal cemetery with numerous white chedis and a significant teaching monastery.
Discover the unearthed temple ruins of this ancient lost city, a brief capital of the Lanna Kingdom, offering a glimpse into a forgotten past.
A unique forest temple with ancient tunnels adorned with Buddha images and meditation caves, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere.
When exploring Chiang Mai's historical sites, a few general points are helpful.
Explore Chiang Mai's diverse natural beauty, from sprawling botanical gardens to misty mountain peaks and unique waterfalls.
A sprawling botanical garden featuring stunning themed gardens, waterfalls, and the magnificent Royal Pavilion. Explore by walking or electric trams.
Surrounding Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, this national park has numerous hiking trails, viewpoints, and smaller waterfalls for a natural escape close to the city.
Home to Thailand's highest peak, with cool temperatures, misty forests, impressive waterfalls, and the beautiful Royal Pagodas for the King and Queen.
Royal Park Rajapruek displays diverse flora and Thai horticultural artistry. Doi Suthep-Pui National Park delivers numerous hiking trails and viewpoints.
Explore Parks on GetYourGuideDoi Suthep Viewpoint offers expansive city views. Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries allow respectful interactions with elephants (no riding). Chiang Mai Night Safari has nocturnal animals.
Book Elephant Sanctuary VisitsMae Sa Waterfall is multi-tiered. Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls feature unique grippy surfaces for climbing. Huay Tung Tao Lake is a man-made reservoir popular with locals.
Discover Water ActivitiesThe Ping River offers leisurely boat tours. Doi Inthanon National Park features impressive waterfalls like Wachirathan and Mae Klang, alongside its high peak.
Find River ToursDoi Suthep-Pui National Park has hiking trails. City cycling explores the Old City. Mountain biking trails exist for experienced riders.
Book Hiking & Cycling ToursChiang Mai's waterways and lakes deliver refreshing escapes and scenic views.
The Ping River flows through the city, creating opportunities for various activities and unique perspectives.
When venturing into national parks or natural areas, carry sufficient water, wear appropriate footwear, and respect wildlife and the environment.
Check weather conditions before hiking, especially during the rainy season (May-October) when trails can get muddy or closed.
Beyond the main tourist circuit, Chiang Mai holds many lesser-known spots that present unique experiences and a local perspective.
Discover tranquil spots away from the crowds.
Explore less common spots for a local experience.
These hidden spots deliver memorable and authentic moments.
These places often feature fewer tourists, creating a more intimate connection with the locale.
Engage with Chiang Mai's creative side and local communities.
Supporting these local initiatives directly benefits the community and artistic scene.
Experience the authentic rhythms of local life.
These markets are less about souvenirs and more about genuine local commerce and culture.
Visiting popular hidden gems during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) makes for a more peaceful experience.
Many of these locations are best discovered on foot, allowing you to notice details and unexpected finds along the way.
Asking residents for their favorite spots can reveal truly unique and authentic hidden gems not listed in guidebooks.
