Temples
1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
A glittering golden chedi on a mountain 15 km from the city, reached by about 300 steps (or a small funicular). Go early for views over Chiang Mai before the haze and crowds. There’s a small entrance fee for foreigners.
2. Wat Chedi Luang
The ruins of a huge 14th-century chedi in the Old City, partly destroyed by an earthquake. Join a free “monk chat” to ask monks about Buddhism.
3. Wat Phra Singh
The city’s most revered temple, with classic Lanna architecture and murals.
4. Wat Sri Suphan (the Silver Temple)
Covered in intricately worked silver. Only men may enter the main ordination hall; everyone can admire it from outside.
5. Wat Umong
A peaceful forest temple with meditation tunnels, near the university.
6. Wat Pha Lat
A jungle temple by a waterfall, reached by the “Monk’s Trail” hike up from the city.
Markets and food
7. Sunday Walking Street
Ratchadamnoen Road in the Old City fills with crafts, food and street performers every Sunday evening.
8. Saturday market on Wualai Road
The silversmiths’ street becomes a lively market on Saturday evenings.
9. Night Bazaar
A nightly market east of the Old City with souvenirs, food courts and live music.
10. Warorot Market
The locals’ market for northern Thai sausages, dried fruit and snacks.
11. Eat khao soi
Northern Thailand’s signature dish: egg noodles in a rich coconut curry with crispy noodles on top.
12. Take a cooking class
Many schools pick you up, take you to a market and teach you several dishes on an organic farm.
Nature and day trips
13. Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary
Choose a place where you observe elephants without riding them. See how to choose an elephant sanctuary.
14. Doi Inthanon National Park
Thailand’s highest peak (2,565 m), with waterfalls, cloud forest and the King and Queen pagodas. The park fee for foreigners is 300 baht.
15. Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong)
Limestone falls you can walk up barefoot thanks to the grippy mineral deposits, about an hour north.
16. Chiang Rai day trip
See the White Temple, Blue Temple and Black House. See Chiang Rai day trip.
17. Mae Kampong village
A mountain village with coffee farms, homestays and cool air.
Relax and explore
18. Nimman cafés and art
Trendy Nimmanhaemin Road is packed with cafés, galleries and bars; One Nimman is a pretty shopping complex.
19. Get a Thai massage
Some of the best are given by former inmates trained in rehabilitation programmes; prices are low across the city.
20. Muay Thai fight night
Local stadiums near the Night Bazaar hold fights most evenings.
Practical tips
- Cover shoulders and knees at temples; carry a scarf.
- Use Grab or songthaews; agree the songthaew fare before you get in.
- From March to April, check air quality before planning outdoor activities.
More Chiang Mai guides
- Chiang Mai travel guide
- Chiang Mai itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Where to stay in Chiang Mai
- Best time to visit Chiang Mai
- Bangkok to Chiang Mai: flight, train or bus
- Ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai
- Chiang Rai day trip
- Yi Peng lantern festival
FAQ: things to do in Chiang Mai
What is Chiang Mai famous for?
Its temples, night markets, food (especially khao soi), elephants and mountain scenery.
Is Doi Suthep worth it?
Yes. It’s Chiang Mai’s most famous temple and has the best city views.
What can you do in Chiang Mai at night?
Walking street markets, the Night Bazaar, live music in Nimman and Muay Thai fights.
Plan your trip to Chiang Mai
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