The 27 Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the gateway to Northern Thailand and has been a favorite among travelers, digital nomads, and backpackers for years, including myself!

This charming mountain town offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, allowing you to relax and unwind. But don't think for a second that there's nothing to do in Chiang Mai!

The city is packed with culture, some of the best markets in all of Thailand, delicious food, and fun activities. From taking cooking classes to exploring temples and, of course, visiting the best elephant sanctuary in the region.

I lived in Chiang Mai in 2014 and 2015 and also had the chance to visit this stunning city again and again, so I've put together a list of my top 27 things to do in this incredible city.

If you're looking for the best place to stay in Chiang Mai, read my extensive neighborhood guide with the best hotel recommendations!

And now, let me show you the best that Chiang Mai has to offer!

1. Temple hopping inside Chiang Mai Old Town

The temples in Chiang Mai are absolutely amazing! With over 200 temples in the city, it's no wonder that temple hopping is a favorite activity among tourists. The most impressive one has to be Wat Chedi Luang, it's also my personal favourite.

Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple from the 14th century, that stands tall at over 70 meters.

My favorite one is Wat Phra Singh, built in 1345, another beautiful temple in the city center. You can't miss its stunning golden Buddha statue. Another favorite is Wat Chiang Man, which has a golden statue outside with a base made of elephant statues.

2. Relax in Chiang Mai's amazing Cafes

Chiang Mai also has some amazing cafés for those moments when you need a break from sightseeing! My Secret Cafe In Town is one of my favorite spots in the city, offering delicious cakes, pastries, and of course, good coffee!

Fern Forest Café is another favorite, serving up delicious lunch items in a super pretty location. And for those who want to work a little, I highly recommend the quieter Artisan Cafe, a little outside the Old City walls, which not only has great Wi-Fi but also serves up fantastic coffee.

3. Visit Chiang Mai's Night Markets

Night markets in Chiang Mai are an absolute must-visit! You'll be spoiled for choice with plenty of options.

The Sunday Walking Street Market and Saturday Night Market along Wua Lai Road are the most well-known markets, offering not just delicious food and interesting souvenirs, but also a busy and fun atmosphere.

Another fantastic option is the Night Bazaar, one of the town's largest night markets. Here, you can find everything from trendy clothes to mouthwatering street food and delightful souvenirs.

While the Saturday and Sunday Night Markets are only open on weekends, the Night Bazaar is open daily from 6 p.m.

4. Stroll the streets of Chiang Mai Old City

Don't miss out on strolling the charming streets of Old Town Chiang Mai! You'll discover stunning architecture and get a glimpse into its rich history and culture as you walk past numerous temples and small boutiques selling handmade products.

Don't forget to savor the mouthwatering street food from local stalls, making your visit a sensory delight.

5. Chat with a monk and give alms

Chiang Mai is the perfect place to explore Buddhism and gain insight into Thai culture. You can chat with a monk at one of the temples or even give alms.

This practice, known as “Tak Bat” in Thai, is a way to express gratitude for the blessings and abundance in one's life. Rising early in the morning to offer food to the monks as they embark on their daily alms rounds is not only a gesture of respect but also an opportunity to partake in a serene and spiritual ritual.

It fosters a connection to the local community and reinforces the values of gratitude and mindfulness that are deeply embedded in Thai culture.

6. Elephant Nature Park

The Elephant Nature Park is an incredible elephant rescue and rehabilitation center in Northern Thailand, founded by the renowned elephant rights advocate, Saengduean Chailert, or as we lovingly call her, Lek.

It's truly an amazing experience where you get to interact with and learn about these majestic creatures while lending a helping hand in their daily routine. And of course, you can also hang out in a super relaxed atmosphere with these gentle giants and even take a refreshing bath with them. It's pure magic!

7. Chiang Mai Street Food Tour 

If you're looking for an unforgettable culinary experience in Chiang Mai, then a street food tour is the way to go! You'll get to visit two-night markets with a local guide, learn how to order food in Thai and try at least eight different dishes.

Plus, you'll learn to order Thai food like the locals, and your guide will be able to share valuable tips about which foods are best for certain times of the day and how to get the best deals.

8. Adventure to Chiang Mai’s Grand Canyon 

Chiang Mai's Grand Canyon is an amazing spot for a day of fun in the sun! Located just outside the city, this canyon offers plenty of activities, such as giant slides, a floating water park, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boarding.

They even have floating trampolines that you can jump onto from various platforms in the water.

9. Sunset at Doi Suthep

Doi Suthep is definitely one of the most photographed spots in Chiang Mai and an absolute must-see!

The golden temple up on the mountain overlooks the city with its impressive golden pagodas, offering stunning views both day and night.

My absolute favorite time to visit Doi Suthep has to be at sunset; there's just something magical about watching the sun go down from the top of a mountain. I absolutely love taking my scooter up the mountain, but you can also take a Songthaew, which is a larger tuk-tuk that is used as public transport around the city.

10. Visit a spa & get a Thai massage

Chiang Mai is the perfect place to relax and recharge. There are plenty of spas and Thai massage parlors in town, offering all kinds of treatments from traditional massages to hot stone therapies, and even specialized treatments such as Ayurvedic treatments.

My personal favorite has to be Fahlanna Spa & Wellness. They offer great spa packages, body scrubs, wraps, and massages. Definitely worth checking out!

11. Take a Thai Cooking Class

One of my absolute favorite things to do in Chiang Mai is taking a cooking class! There are so many classes to choose from, catering to all levels of experience – whether you're a beginner or a seasoned home chef.

The Organic Farm Cooking Class is my top recommendation! You'll have a great time learning how to make authentic Thai dishes from scratch such as Pad Thai. They even have vegetarian and vegan options available.

12. Go Night Light Kayaking

This night light kayaking tour is a truly unique experience in Chiang Mai.

With the help of your guide, you'll paddle along the peaceful Mae Ping River while admiring the stunning views of Chiang Mai's city lights.

This excursion not only allows you to avoid daytime heat and crowds but also provides an opportunity to do something unique in the company of a small group limited to 15 participants.

13. Join an E-Bike Tour

If you're up for an adventure, why not hop on an e-bike and take a tour of Chiang Mai and its charming surrounding villages?

It's a fantastic way to explore the countryside while having a great time and being kind to the environment. The guided tour includes all necessary equipment, such as bikes, gloves, and helmets, along with lunch (for morning tours) or snacks (for afternoon tours), offering a personalized experience with small group sizes.

14. Explore nearby waterfalls

Explore the beautiful surrounding waterfalls, including my personal favorite – Bua Thong Waterfall. This waterfall is truly unique: the rocks are wonderfully sticky, making it possible to climb barefoot.

That's why it's called the “Sticky Waterfall”. With the help of ropes, you can easily climb up the three levels of this amazing waterfall.

15. Relax at a yoga and meditation retreat

If you want to experience the true beauty of Chiang Mai, why not join a yoga retreat or meditation class? There are plenty of options in town, from drop-in classes to multi-day retreats. 

Suan Sati is one of the best – they offer various courses that focus on mindfulness practices and holistic well-being.

16. Learn Muay Thai boxing 

Muay Thai is one of Thailand's most popular martial arts, and learning it in Chiang Mai is a must-do for any martial arts enthusiast, or if you simply want to exercise and have some fun trying something new.

Dang Muay Thai is the perfect place to do so. They offer both private lessons and group classes, with experienced instructors who will teach you how to practice this ancient art form safely and effectively.

17. Get your adrenaline rushing with ATV and white-water rafting 

If you're up for an adrenaline-filled adventure, ATV & white-water rafting is the perfect choice.

This three-hour tour will take you through some of Chiang Mai's most stunning landscapes while providing an exhilarating experience. Riding on an ATV through the Thai jungle and shooting down rapids on a raft is an absolute blast and an amazing adrenaline rush!

18. See the sunrise on a Hot Air Balloon Ride 

For an even more calming activity, hot air ballooning is definitely the way to go!

This activity offers stunning views of Chiang Mai and its surrounding countryside. While floating high above the treetops, you'll get a bird's eye view of lush green fields, ancient temples, and majestic mountains.

19. Caving and jungle kayaking

If you're up for an adventure that combines exploration and excitement, then caving and jungle kayaking is just the thing for you.

This awesome tour takes you deep into the jungle of Northern Thailand alongside a friendly local guide. You'll have the chance to explore the magnificent Chiang Dao Cave and kayak through the jungle rivers.

20. Shopping

Shopping in Chiang Mai is an absolute must. The city offers a wide variety of shopping malls, ranging from high-end luxury stores to budget-friendly options.

Some of the best malls in town are the modern Maya Mall and Central Festival. Of course, if you're looking for something more authentic, the markets are great for some souvenir shopping as well. 

21. Enjoy Chiang Mai's Nightlife

Chiang Mai is known for its lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and pubs to keep you entertained all night long.

The favorite spot for most travelers and backpackers is definitely Zoe in Yellow. Order typical Thai drinks, from cocktails to beers, and they have cheap deals on buckets full of alcohol.

22. Join a jewelry-making class

Chiang Mai is the perfect place to explore traditional Thai crafts, and one of the best ways to do so is by joining a jewelry-making class.

At Nova Artlab Chiang Mai, you'll learn how to make beautiful jewelry with different metals such as silver, gold, copper, and brass. The classes are taught in English and are highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn more about traditional Thai jewelry-making techniques.

23. Wander the streets of the Nimman neighborhood

Nimman is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Chiang Mai! It's packed with boutique shops, hip cafes, and amazing restaurants.

Whether you're on the hunt for a cool hipster cafe, some mouthwatering international fusion cuisine, or simply want to soak up the cool and colorful vibes, spending a day here is an absolute must.

My favorite cafes are:

• Roast8ry Lab

• Nine One Coffee

• Smoothie Blues

24. Art in Paradise Chiang Mai 

If you're looking for an activity that the whole family can enjoy, Art in Paradise Chiang Mai is a must.

It's an interactive 3D art gallery, where you can explore over 100 different artworks and take pictures of yourself interacting with the scenes.

25. See a ladyboy cabaret show

The Cabaret show is an absolute must-see in Chiang Mai! Prepare to be amazed by the incredibly skilled and talented ladyboy performers, putting on a show like no other.

It's like Moulin Rouge with a thrilling Thai twist!

26. Doi Inthanon National Park & Chiang Rai

If you're looking for a few days of adventure beyond Chiang Mai, go on a day trip. There are plenty of incredible places to visit in the area, such as Doi Inthanon National Park, where you can see some of the most beautiful pagodas in the whole country, and Chiang Rai with its stunning white temples.

These places offer stunning views, fascinating cultures, and plenty of opportunities for exploration.

27. Take part in a festival (Loi Krathong Festival or Songkran)

Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience one of Chiang Mai's most famous festivals!

Loi Krathong is celebrated every year in November, and it's an incredible celebration. People light up lanterns and release them into the night sky.

The Songkran festival is celebrated during April, and it's a fun-filled water fight enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Things NOT to do in Chiang Mai

With all the amazing things to do in Chiang Mai, there are a few things many tourists love but you should not do when you visit Chiang Mai. 

• Visiting the Tiger Kingdom is one of them. Though it may seem like a great experience, this place is actually quite controversial and has been criticized for its mistreatment of animals. 

• Another activity to avoid is riding an elephant. Taking rides on an elephant is one of the most popular tourist activities in Thailand, but it's also one of the cruelest. The animals are often mistreated and forced to carry too much weight for long periods of time. 

• Visiting the Long Neck Tribes is also not recommended, as it has been accused of being a form of human exploitation. Instead, visit a nearby museum to learn about the history and culture of these tribes.

• Entering a temple without proper attire is not recommended. Most temples in the area require visitors to wear long pants and a shirt with sleeves, so be sure to dress appropriately before entering.

• Visiting the Chiang Mai Zoo might not be as bad as visiting the Tiger Kingdom, but hey, why not skip the zoo and head straight to one of the amazing elephant sanctuaries instead?

Things to do in Chiang Mai – Frequently Asked Questions

⭐ Is Chiang Mai worth visiting?

Absolutely! Chiang Mai has so much to offer, and let me tell you, the city is bursting with culture and history. You can meet monks, explore temples, and on the flip side, get your adrenaline pumping with ATV rides and white water rafting. Trust me when I say this, Chiang Mai truly has something for everyone and it's my favorite city in Thailand without a doubt!

✈️ How do I get to Chiang Mai?

There are several options to get to Chiang Mai. You can fly directly into Chiang Mai International Airport, or take a train or bus from Bangkok. Alternatively, if you want to explore more of Thailand before arriving in Chiang Mai, you can also take the slow boat up the river to Chiang Mai.

🐘 Can I see Elephants in Chiang Mai?

You should avoid riding elephants when you visit Chiang Mai, as this has been criticized for its mistreatment of animals. However, there are some ethical elephant sanctuaries where you can observe and interact with these animals and learn about their conservation in a respectful manner. 

☀️ What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is between November and February, which is the cool and dry season. During this time, you'll experience pleasantly warm days and cooler nights. Just keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season so you should book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment. 

❓ What is the best thing to do in Chiang Mai?

My personal favorite activity is meeting the elephants at Elephant Nature Park, but there are also plenty of other amazing things to do in Chiang Mai, such as exploring the temples, joining a cooking class, cafe hopping or going zip-lining and waterfall hunting.

Things to do in Chiang Mai – Final Words

Chiang Mai is absolutely worth the journey to Northern Thailand! This city is bursting with history, culture, and activities that you could easily spend weeks here.

From meeting monks and visiting the famous Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh to bathing with elephants, strolling past the Chiang Mai Gate, or taking a day trip to Chiang Rai or Pai, there are plenty of things to do in Chiang Mai that will please everyone.

And once you arrive in Chiang Mai, remember to be respectful of the culture and the local people. As tourists, it's important to keep in mind that we are guests in someone else's home, so let's always be mindful of our actions and show respect to the locals. With that being said, have an amazing time exploring Chiang Mai!