Chiang Mai Travel Guide: Top 10 Places to Visit
September 29, 2025 10:37 AM
Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand, is renowned for its ancient temples, lush mountains, vibrant markets, and rich Lanna heritage. Beyond sightseeing, visitors can enjoy cafes, craft workshops, and festivals unique to the region.
by Thairanked Guide
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Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand, is renowned for its ancient temples, lush mountains, vibrant markets, and rich Lanna heritage. Beyond sightseeing, visitors can enjoy cafes, craft workshops, and festivals unique to the region. Planning your visit between February and April? Don't miss the blooming flower festivals in February, refreshing escapes to mountain viewpoints in March, and local Songkran water celebrations in April for a truly memorable experience.
1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Highlight
A sacred temple on Doi Suthep Mountain, offering panoramic views of Chiang Mai city. Visitors climb the 300-step staircase lined with naga statues or take a cable car. The temple exudes spirituality and architectural beauty.
How to Get There
- Taxi from Chiang Mai International Airport: ~30 mins
- Songthaew (Red Truck) from the city center is available
Essential Information
Chiang Mai
Daily, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM
2. Chiang Mai Old City
Highlight
Surrounded by ancient walls and moats, the Old City is dotted with temples, boutique cafés, and artisan shops. Walking or cycling through the alleys provides a glimpse of local life.
How to Get There
- ~15 mins by Taxi from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Bicycle rental recommended for exploring
Essential Information
Chiang Mai
24 Hours (shops generally 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
3. Doi Inthanon National Park
Highlight
Home to Thailand’s highest peak, this park offers waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning mountain vistas. Cool weather and misty forests make it a refreshing escape from the city.
How to Get There
- ~1 hr 30 mins by Taxi from Chiang Mai Old City
- Day tours with hotel pick-up are also available
Essential Information
Chiang Mai
Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM
+6653286729
See also
4. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Highlight
A bustling market offering handicrafts, souvenirs, street food, and live performances. Evening atmosphere is lively, perfect for shopping and tasting local dishes.
How to Get There
- ~10 mins by Taxi from Chiang Mai Old City
- Walking distance from some city center hotels
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM daily
- Google Maps: Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Essential Information
Chiang Mai
Daily, 5:00 PM–12:00 AM
5. Wat Chedi Luang
Highlight
An impressive temple in the Old City featuring a massive chedi (stupa) partially ruined by an earthquake. Offers insight into Lanna architecture and history.
How to Get There
- ~5 mins by Taxi from Chiang Mai Old City center
- Walking is possible within the Old City
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Google Maps: Wat Chedi Luang
Essential Information
Daily, 5:00 AM–10:30 PM
+66971954695
6. Elephant Nature Park
Highlight
A sanctuary for rescued elephants. Visitors can feed, bathe, and observe elephants ethically. The park emphasizes conservation and education.
How to Get There
- ~1 hr by Taxi from Chiang Mai Old City
- Tours with hotel pick-up available
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Google Maps: Elephant Nature Park
7. Doi Suthep-Pui National Park
Highlight
Beyond the temple, the park features waterfalls, hiking trails, and viewpoints. Fresh mountain air and lush greenery make it perfect for nature lovers.
How to Get There
- ~20 mins by Taxi from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Songthaews are also available from the city center
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
- Google Maps: Doi Suthep–Pui National Park
8. Bua Thong Waterfalls (Sticky Waterfalls)
Highlight
Unique limestone waterfalls where visitors can climb directly on the rock surfaces without slipping. The surroundings are lush and peaceful.
How to Get There
- ~1 hr 20 mins by Taxi from Chiang Mai Old City
- Day tours often include transportation
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Google Maps: Bua Thong Waterfalls
9. Sunday Walking Street Market
Highlight
A lively market in the Old City with handicrafts, street food, and live performances. Ideal for tasting northern Thai cuisine and buying souvenirs.
How to Get There
- Walking distance from Chiang Mai Old City
- ~5 mins by Taxi from Wat Chedi Luang
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM every Sunday
- Google Maps: Sunday Walking Street
10. Mae Sa Elephant Camp
Highlight
A traditional elephant camp offering shows, treks, and cultural demonstrations. Visitors can interact with elephants ethically under supervision.
How to Get There
- ~45 mins by Taxi from Chiang Mai Old City
- Tours with hotel pick-up available
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Google Maps: Mae Sa Elephant Camp
Summary & Seasonal Tips
Chiang Mai offers a diverse array of attractions year-round, but visiting between February and April brings special highlights. February is famous for the Chiang Mai Flower Festival, which showcases spectacular floral displays and parades, see our Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2026 Guide for parade tips and photo spots. March is perfect for cooler mountain trekking and exploring local craft villages before the summer heat arrives. In April, immerse yourself in one of Thailand’s most joyful traditions: Songkran, the Thai New Year water festival, which you can read more about in our Songkran destinations ranking. No matter when you visit, Chiang Mai's warm hospitality and creative energy will leave a lasting impression.
by Thairanked Guide
Thairanked helps you discover great places in Thailand!
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