Chiang Mai Travel Guide: Top 10 Places to Visit

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 city center available
  
  

Practical Info

• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Google Maps: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

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
  
  

Practical Info

• Open 24 hours (shops generally 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
• Google Maps: Chiang Mai Old City

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 also available
  
  

Practical Info

• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Google Maps: Doi Inthanon National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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