There are numerous issues to do in Chiang Mai. Town is Thailand’s rose of the north and is a large draw for vacationers. Filled with scrumptious meals, a whole bunch of temples and buzzing with Thai tradition, Chiang Mai is a metropolis the place it’s not possible to be bored.
I spent fairly some time there throughout my huge backpacking journey round Southeast Asia. It rapidly grew to become certainly one of my favourite cities in Thailand. I discovered numerous issues to see in Chiang Mai, and I had an actual journey after I rode a motorcycle from there to Pai.
Chiang Mai is positioned within the mountainous north of the nation, the place the climate is cooler, the jungles are thicker and the rivers are stronger. All of this makes the world across the metropolis an adventurer’s playground with a by no means ending listing of issues to do in Chiang Mai. Go away the “beachy” issues to do in Koh Phangan and different Thai islands behind, and make your approach to the mountains of Thailand, you gained’t remorse it!
This publish was up to date in 2023 to incorporate much more superb issues to do in Chiang Mai.
17 Greatest Issues to Do in Chiang Mai
If trekking the jungles or using the rapids just isn’t your factor, Chiang Mai itself is throbbing with sufficient actions and sights to steal your coronary heart. Right here is my listing of just some of the unbelievable issues to do in Chiang Mai – it’s undoubtedly one of many prime locations to go to in Thailand.
Have a examine what to do in Chiang Mai and begin planning your subsequent journey.
1. Go to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
One of many prime issues to do in Chiang Mai is to go to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple. This lovely golden temple sits atop of Doi Suthep mountain and is positioned 12 kilometers from the town. In addition to being essentially the most sacred place in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep can be probably the most sacred temples in the entire of Thailand.
Together with some spectacular views, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which is an unbelievable thirteenth century golden temple, additionally homes an exquisite white elephant shrine and a formidable reproduction of the Emerald Buddha.
When you find yourself within the metropolis, each taxi driver and journey agent will ask to take you to see the temple. Nonetheless, this isn’t obligatory as Doi Suthep could be very straightforward to achieve. The best choice to achieve the highest of the mountain is by Songthaew, one of many transformed pick-ups which you will note whizzing in regards to the metropolis. These hop on hop off “buses” are one of the simplest ways to get about Chiang Mai. Don’t miss this temple when backpacking Thailand.
Handle: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
2. Gorge Your self on the Evening Markets
There are such a lot of issues to do in Thailand, however this nation is unquestionably well-known for its many evening markets with Chiang Mai being residence to a number of the greatest within the nation. The largest of all of the nightly markets is the Evening Bazaar which is positioned on Chang Klan Highway.
By day Chang Klan is a traditional highway, however with the darkness comes a whole bunch of market stalls. These stalls promote every part from pretend designer garments to Thai lanterns and art work. Meals can be bought on the Evening Bazaar however in Chiang Mai evening time meals stalls are in all places providing every part from Sushi to meat on a stick.
☞ SEE ALSO: A Digital Nomad Information to Dwelling in Chiang Mai
The Evening Bazaar of Chang Klan Highway is open twelve months of the yr it doesn’t matter what the climate. Do be warned nevertheless, bartering is a should, so be ready to haggle your socks off if you need a superb value.
3. Attempt the Insect Buffet
One other of the numerous issues to do in Chiang Mai is to style the insect buffet. These stalls that are filled with creepy crawlies are discovered all through the nation and are a should for a lot of vacationers. At first look, I assumed, no means I’ll eat that, however finally I labored up sufficient braveness (and starvation!) to strive some.
Tasty little nibbles from tarantulas and scorpions to bugs and grasshoppers are simply ready to freak you out. Many individuals solely want to take a photograph to indicate their pals again residence. Nonetheless, the stall house owners will nonetheless cost you a greenback for {a photograph}. Not solely is that this a prime attraction in Chiang Mai, nevertheless it’s one of many many common issues to do in Bangkok as effectively.
Bugs are an incredible supply of protein and are additionally extremely straightforward to farm. With reviews that the governments of the world would love these tasty little horrors on the menus of their very own nations, it may not be lengthy earlier than you’ll be able to eat your very personal bag of crickets at residence.
4. Watch a Muay Thai Combat
In Thailand Muay Thai is greater than a sport, it’s a faith. Educated from an extremely younger age, Muay Thai fighters are a number of the most dangerous on the earth. Muay Thai is among the most prolific preventing types, and is commonly integrated into blended martial arts reminiscent of the worldwide UFC.
In Thailand Muay Thai is in all places, from again alley rings to stadiums crammed with cheering spectators. It’s also not unusual to see younger kids preventing within the ring. Muay Thai is among the only a few methods to earn good cash in Thailand for a number of the poorer households and likewise attracts unbelievable respect.
The 2 predominant stadiums in Chiang Mai are Thaphae Boxing Stadium and likewise Kawila Boxing Stadium. If you need to see a struggle, ask any Songthaew or Tuk-Tuk and they’ll take you to the stadium. Nonetheless, there are numerous smaller institutions that additionally placed on nightly reveals that are cheaper however wouldn’t have the identical ambiance.
I’ve been to the massive stadiums and the smaller reveals, and so they’re each value trying out. For those who solely have time for one, nevertheless, I like to recommend the spectacle of a busy stadium.
5. Trip a Bike to Pai
One of many extra adventurous issues to do in Chiang Mai is to hire a motorcycle and journey by way of the mountains to Pai. And never solely that, however this was probably the most adventurous issues I’ve performed anyplace.
The highway from Chiang Mai to Pai is among the most lovely that I’ve ever seen. This twisting, winding ribbon of tarmac is ideal for using motorbikes. Stretching 150 kilometers north from the town, the highway to Pai is surrounded by pure magnificence. Plus, when you get there, there are such a lot of issues to do in Pai to maintain you busy.
Talking of motorbiking, the Mae Hong Son Loop in Thailand is among the hottest and scenic journeys. And, it takes in Pai as effectively! Click on right here to be taught extra.
Additionally, if you’re a backpacker, Pai is a traveler’s paradise nestled in pristine nationwide park and is a should when on this a part of the nation. To be taught extra about this unbelievable little place, have a learn of my Traveler’s Information To Pai.
6. Go to Bai Orchid and Butterfly Farm
Located simply exterior of Chiang Mai is the Bai Orchid and Butterfly farm. Right here it’s potential to see 1000’s of lovely butterflies and blooming flowers all yr spherical. A lot cherished by the individuals of Thailand, the orchid can be a nationwide image of the nation.
It’s also potential to purchase your very personal seedlings from the Bai Orchid so that you could develop your individual flowers at residence. One of many huge attracts within the memento store are the golden orchids. These are orchids which have been dipped into gold and remodeled into lovely jewellery. These are extremely wanted all through the nation.
Bai Orchid is a kind of like it or hate it locations. I cherished it, and for those who’re a lover of flowers and butterflies like me, the 40 Baht entrance price is unquestionably value it. If flowers and butterflies aren’t actually your factor, then this can be one of many issues to do in Chiang Mai that you need to give a miss.
Handle: WW9M+FMV, Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai, 50180, Thailand
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7. Obtain a Thai Therapeutic massage from a Prisoner
Thai massages can be found on virtually each road within the nation. Nonetheless, the ladies’s jail within the metropolis runs a scheme for quickly to be launched prisoners, the place they’re taught life abilities to assist them reintegrate into society.
That is one for these which might be in search of issues to do in Chiang Mai which might be somewhat completely different. Receiving a Thai Therapeutic massage from an inmate of the jail is one thing that I’ll always remember. The ladies are supervised always and there’s no danger of foul play.
That is additionally an incredible assist to the ladies as it may be very tough for them to search out jobs as soon as they depart jail. In addition to the Thai therapeutic massage there’s additionally somewhat cafe the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in some tasty Thai meals and a patio backyard the place you’ll be able to wait.
8. Trip in a Tuk-Tuk
It’s not possible to go to Thailand and never take a journey in one of many native Tuk-Tuks. These nippy little automobiles are discovered throughout Thailand and are a enjoyable approach to get in regards to the metropolis. Every area of the nation has its personal type of Tuk-Tuk and Chiang Mai is not any completely different.
Nonetheless, I’d not advise that you just take Tuk-Tuks in Thailand typically. A journey in a Tuk-Tuk is costlier than a taxi and may change into fairly a problem for those who allow them to. That stated, a brief journey in a Tuk-Tuk could be a vibrant and entertaining approach to whizz in regards to the metropolis and I at all times had a blast using in them.
Often known as Auto Rickshaws, taking a journey in a Tuk-Tuk is only one extra of the numerous nice issues to do in Chiang Mai.
The place to Keep in Chiang Mai
Here’s a listing of the highest 3 rated, reasonably priced properties in Chiang Mai. Click on on the hyperlinks and verify them out for your self!
- Tommy Huts – From $13 / Evening, Score 9.7. Click on right here to see the newest value on Reserving.com
- Tato Home – From $34 / Evening, Score 9.9. Click on right here to see the newest value on Reserving.com
- Wealth Boutique Resort – From $63 / Evening, Score 9.5. Click on right here to see the newest value on Reserving.com
☞ Click on right here to see all lodging choices out there in Chiang Mai on Reserving.com
9. Take a Dip on the San Kamphaeng Sizzling Springs – probably the most enjoyable issues to do in Chiang Mai
Subsequent up is the San Kamphaeng Sizzling Springs. Located to the northeast of Chiang Mai, the San Kamphaeng Sizzling Springs are nestled within the excessive hills surrounded by each woods and mountains. That is what to do in Chiang Mai whenever you’re actually in want of a relaxation.
Excessive sulphur ranges within the water implies that the springs have been remodeled into mineral baths. Together with the baths there’s additionally a pure mineral swimming pool and therapeutic massage amenities. The San Kamphaeng Sizzling Springs are an incredible place to only relax and loosen up.
For those who do make it to the recent springs, be sure to purchase an egg. Surprisingly, eggs can be found so that you can boil within the hotter springs. I loved cooking and consuming them whereas barely realizing that I used to be additionally cooking myself.
Handle: 1 Ban Sa Ha Khon, Mae On District, Chiang Mai, 50130, Thailand
10. Attempt Durian, the World’s Smelliest Fruit
Durian, the smelliest fruit on the earth, is banned in inns and public areas all through Asia. To not be mistaken for the very comparable Jackfruit, Durian is damaging to all however the strongest noses. I rapidly realized to acknowledge its pungent stench from miles away.
For some individuals the style is definitely worth the odor, whereas others hate each the style and the ungodly odour. If you need to see which aspect of the dimensions you fall beneath, durian is sort of straightforward to get.
By asking round in most markets you’ll quickly discover a piece of the so-called “King of Fruits”. Why it has been christened such is past me, however then I’ve by no means dared make the leap. Give me scorpions and tarantulas and I’ll eat them any day of the week; give me durian, nevertheless, and I’ll run for the hills.
11. Go White Water Rafting
For those who occur to be visiting through the moist season and are in search of what to do in Chiang Mai for somewhat journey, white water rafting is for you. It’s most undoubtedly one of many extra adventurous issues to do in Chiang Mai.
White water rafting in Chiang Mai just isn’t for the faint of coronary heart. However with its tropical local weather, steep mountains and delightful surroundings, the world possesses good situations for the game. I’ve tried it in a number of nations, and my journey in Chiang Mai was undoubtedly top-of-the-line.
Many corporations in Chiang Mai supply white water rafting excursions, with all saying they’re one of the best. I’d advise you to verify Tripadvisor and skim the opinions. See what others have stated and make your individual thoughts up about which firm to decide on.
12. Take a Thai Cooking Class
One of many nice issues to do in Chiang Mai is to take a Thai cooking class so that after you come residence you’ll be able to take the tastes of Thailand with you.
Upon getting travelled by way of Thailand, there isn’t a doubt that you’ll fall in love with the meals. From purple and inexperienced curries to Khao Soi and Pad Thai, the meals in Thailand is superb.
Chiang Mai presents many locations the place you’ll be able to take a Thai cooking class. Indicators are posted at numerous factors all through the vacationer areas of the town, all providing to show you the secrets and techniques of Thai meals. One other nice approach to discover good courses is by utilizing Tripadvisor. Alternatively you possibly can ask different vacationers, that is at all times a good way of garnering info.
13. Benefit from the Sunday Avenue Market
Attempt to plan your journey to Chiang Mai for a weekend so you’ll be able to stick round and benefit from the Sunday evening market. Throughout this time, the Previous Metropolis is closed off to visitors, and is taken over by quite a few distributors promoting their artwork, meals and crafts.
Everybody comes out on a Sunday evening to take pleasure in this market. To not point out, it’s a superb place to search out decreased charges on souvenirs and different trinkets. No considering shopping for something? A few of my favourite issues to do have been to sit down down and revel in a foot therapeutic massage, sip on some Thai tea, and gorge myself on scrumptious Thai meals.
14. Attempt a Hundred Yr Previous Egg
Do you will have a powerful abdomen? Do you want a problem? Then possibly consuming 100 yr egg is certainly one of your prime issues to do in Chiang Mai. Often known as a century egg or a thousand yr egg, that is an Asian delicacy which is eaten all through this a part of the world.
The egg is preserved for a number of weeks or months utilizing numerous completely different strategies together with using clay ash and salt. Nonetheless, in my expertise, because the saying goes, the hundred yr egg’s bark is way worse than its chew. Each the blackness of the egg and the odor are far worse than the precise style.
Hundred yr eggs might be discovered at most markets all through Chiang Mai. Attempt one your self and get a photograph to terrorise your extra squeamish pals again residence. That is what to do in Chiang Mai whenever you wish to strive one thing that’s actually completely different.
15. Bathe an Elephant on the Elephant Nature Park
With so many tales in regards to the horrendous lives that these lovely animals stay, the Elephant Nature Park is a vibrant mild within the darkness. The Elephant Nature Park is a sanctuary which is positioned only one hour from Chiang Mai. It was simply certainly one of my favourite issues to see in Chiang Mai.
The sanctuary is devoted to rescuing and rehabilitating these majestic creatures from the horrid lives that they’ve been pressured to stay. The park presents lodge choose up which makes it extremely straightforward to achieve.
Guests to the Elephant Nature Park are given an elephant training and may also feed and bathe the animals. This is among the greatest issues to do in Chiang Mai, and it was a spotlight of my journey.
Handle: 1 Ratchamanka Rd, Tambon Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand
16. Devour the Native Meals
As said earlier, I strongly imagine that Thai meals is a number of the most tasty on the earth. Typically it appears that there’s a by no means ending menu of deliciousness whenever you’re exploring the gastronomic aspect of Thailand. From road meals and the evening markets to the eating places and seashore bars, Thai meals won’t ever disappoint.
Be certain to strive dishes such because the coconut curry and Pad Krapow. Additionally don’t forget to seize some mango sticky rice to maintain up your vitality as you’re exploring the town.
One other beauty of the meals in Chiang Mai is simply how low-cost all of it is. For those who seize a meal from one of many many road distributors, you’ll pay solely a few {dollars}.
17. Watch a Ladyboy Cabaret Present
You can’t journey to Thailand and never see a ladyboy cabaret present, and Chiang Mai presents a number of the greatest within the nation. Many individuals are sometimes stunned simply how good the reveals are. They’re enjoyable and entertaining and a good way to spend the evening.
In England, ladyboy cabaret reveals have change into an enormous draw for nights out reminiscent of work and hen events. These, nevertheless, don’t have anything on the Chiang Mai ladyboy cabaret reveals, one of many prime issues to do in Chiang Mai for leisure. I had an superior time.
You’ll have no bother discovering a present, simply ask a taxi driver to take you. Chances are you’ll be stunned on the many various individuals you see attending. From backpackers to businessmen, all people loves a superb evening out.
FAQs for What to Do in Chiang Mai
Try these solutions to steadily requested questions on issues to do in Chiang Mai.
Beautiful historic temples, reminiscent of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, are a number of the greatest issues to see in Chiang Mai. Town can be identified for its bustling evening markets and scenic pure areas within the surrounding mountains.
To get a superb style of what to do in Chiang Mai, you need to plan on at the least 4 days and 5 nights. That means, you’ll be able to go to temples, discover evening markets, and take within the pure surroundings of the close by mountains.
Chiang Mai is an on a regular basis metropolis filled with tradition and nature, whereas Phuket is an island paradise. Head to Phuket for white-sand seashores, scuba diving, and boat journeys to islands of white cliffs. Because it’s removed from the seashore, you gained’t discover any of those in Chiang Mai.
There’s little doubt that consuming native meals is among the greatest issues to do in Chiang Mai. Additionally common in close by Laos, Khao Soi could also be Chiang Mai’s best-known dish. It’s a coconut curry soup with two sorts of noodles and hen or beef.
The Previous Metropolis has many of the prime issues to see in Chiang Mai, together with historic buildings, temples, and sections of the outdated metropolis wall.
Sure, Chiang Mai is made for strolling. Certainly, exploring the town on foot is one of the simplest ways to absorb a lot of its prime points of interest, such because the evening markets.
Pack Your Luggage for Chiang Mai!
Chiang Mai is a metropolis that may preserve you entertained for so long as you permit it to. Not for nothing is Thailand one of many prime vacationer locations on the planet. How lots of the 17 are you going to do? Or when you have already been to Chiang Mai, what else do you assume must be on the listing? Pontificate within the feedback under.
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