by Thairanked Guide
September 29, 2025 10:37 AM
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Chiang Mai Travel Guide: Top 10 Places to Visit
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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.
01 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 city center available
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
- Google Maps: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
02 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
Practical Info
- Open 24 hours (shops generally 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
- Google Maps: Chiang Mai Old City
03 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 also available
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
- Google Maps: Doi Inthanon National Park
04 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
05 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
06 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
07 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
08 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
09 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
by Thairanked Guide
September 29, 2025 10:37 AM
Search Hotels & Flights
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