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Bucket List: Amazing Places to Visit in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is filled with fun things to do. As one of Thailand’s most popular tourist spots, Chiang Mai is famously known as the “Rose of the North” and is surrounded by enchanting architecture. The city was founded over seven centuries ago, and it is the capital of the Lenna Kingdom. Chiang Mai is also home to over 300 temples.
It experiences cooler temperatures than any part of southern Thailand, which many visitors find fascinating as they can spend long hours enjoying beautiful sites without feeling fatigued.
Besides, the Chiang Mai people are very hospitable and charming in Thailand, and you will instantly feel its charisma when you land your foot there. You will quickly fall in love with the place, and when you do, below are the 15 best things to do in Chiang Mai.
Attend the Loi Krathong and Yi Peng Festival
This three-day festival usually involves parades, contests, ritual dances, sky lanterns, and floating lights.
The festival takes place in November, and the first day of celebration is called the Yi Peng, or the lantern festival, where homes and institutions in the region are adorned with lanterns.
The second day is what the locals call the Loi Krathong, or the full moon, which involves getting rid of any past bad omen and asking for future good luck.
Liven up at Bus Bar Chiang Mai
Here, trailers are turned into a lovely space. Locals, visitors, ex-pats, and backpackers find Bus Bar a nice place to enjoy Thai food, meet up, connect, and listen to live music. Bus Bar is near the Ping River and has seats inside, outside, and on top.
You can find delicious Thai food from 50 THB to 100 THB while 70THB for drinks. The only downside to Bus Bar is the annoying mosquitoes, especially on rainy nights.
Have fun in Art In Paradise
Walking along 3D image walls is one of the most exciting activities in Chiang Mai. House in a four-story building, Art In Paradise, is one of the biggest 3D museums in the world.
Book an afternoon in Art In Paradise for fun-filled and creative moments if you are accompanied by the young ones.
You can find this museum along Chan Klan Road in Chiang Mai, which opens from 9 AM to 9 PM.
Brave yourself and go zip lining
This is undoubtedly the most thrilling Chiang Mai itinerary, though not for faint-hearted ones. But if you are a daredevil, look no further than the Dragon Flight Chiang Mai.
The package contains 26 zip lines, 1 sky bridge, 1 skyboard, 1 canopy walk, 1 spiral ladder, 1 timber ladder, nature walks, and hundreds of fun things to do for everyone of all ages (4 years to 65 years, though). Visit their FB Page for more details.
Climb the highest peak in Thailand.
If you are in Chiang Mai for the long haul, try stepping out of your comfort zone and conquering the highest mountain in Thailand – Doi Inthanon.
The mountain is just 2 hours from Chiang Mai, and at its base is a park filled with beautiful flora and fauna, a cool climate, and several waterfalls.
Race up the sticky Chiang Mai waterfalls.
This is one of the must-do things in Chiang Mai, combining fun and adventure.
Welcome to Bua Tong waterfall, only 2 hours by car, outside Chiang Mai. Don’t be surprised to find many locals here; they can’t get enough of the place too!
Climb to the top of the Bua Tong waterfall and find a sacred healing spring.
Marvel at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a revered Buddhist temple perched atop Doi Suthep mountain near Chiang Mai, Thailand. This sacred site is steeped in legend and history, dating back to the 14th century. Visitors climb 309 steps flanked by Naga serpents or take a cable car to reach the ornate golden pagoda and intricate structures.
The temple’s grandeur is matched by breathtaking panoramic views of Chiang Mai City and its surroundings. With its spiritual ambiance, intricate architecture, and serene surroundings, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a significant religious and cultural landmark, attracting pilgrims and tourists worldwide.
Be cool at Nimmanhaemin Road.
Nimmanhaemin Road, affectionately known as “Nimman,” is a trendy and vibrant street in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Favored by locals and tourists alike, this bustling area boasts a diverse mix of modern cafes, hip restaurants, stylish boutiques, and art galleries. Known for its contemporary and bohemian vibe, Nimmanhaemin is a hub for young creatives, digital nomads, and the city’s urban crowd.
By day, it entices with its unique shopping opportunities and art spaces, while at night, it transforms into a lively social scene with many bars and clubs. Nimmanhaemin Road offers an exciting and eclectic experience in the heart of Chiang Mai.
Try out Khao Soi
One of the finest exports of Chiang Mai, Khao Soi, is a coconut and curry-flavored soup loaded with yellow egg noodles and chicken, with crispily fried egg noodle toppings.
The dish is served with chopped red onions, a wedge of lime, and pickled green mustard. Don’t make the mistake of leaving Chiang Mai without tasting Khao Soi.
Shop at Warorot Market
Warorot Market is a bustling and vibrant traditional market offering visitors a sensory feast. Spanning three floors, this iconic marketplace is a treasure trove of diverse goods, from fresh produce, spices, and exotic fruits to handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Local delicacies tempt taste buds with street food stalls, while shops brim with jewelry, clothing, and electronics.
With its authentic atmosphere and friendly vendors, Warorot Market provides an authentic glimpse into Thai culture and lifestyle. A must-visit destination for tourists and locals seeking an immersive and enriching shopping experience in the heart of Chiang Mai.
Boat ride on Mae Ping River
After shopping at the nearby Warorot Market, book a two-hour boat ride along the Mae Ping River. This is one of the most soothing activities in Chiang Mai.
You will also enjoy beautiful scenery, including traditional teak houses.
Come up and close with elephants at a sanctuary.
Just because you are in Thailand doesn’t mean you can ride elephants. Leave that to experienced Thai people or experts.
Instead, find retirement camps or elephant sanctuaries where they keep rescued elephants. Learn why you should not ride elephants here and help to feed them.
Visit the Tiger Kingdom
The Tiger Kingdom is located 10 kilometers outside of Chiang Mai and is a home for tigers of varying ages.
Get up close and personal with tigers at the Tiger Kingdom and enter numerous cages.
Unwind at Bai Orchid and Butterfly Farm
Orchids are very popular with Thai people; they symbolize Thai Airways and Thailand’s nation. You can buy seedlings here as well as souvenirs.
Get a Thai Massage from prison.
We don’t mean mug someone and get thrown in prison to get this special Thai massage. Instead, ex-convicts and graduates of a vocational course in Chiang Mai prison offer massages.
You will have to part with 200 THB for an hour of Thai or foot massage, while an hour of full body massage will set you back at 400 THB.
You will not only be enjoying the pleasure but also supporting these ex-prisoners.
Chiang Mai Travel and Tour Packages
To help you plan out your visit to Chiang Mai, we listed places to visit and other amazing things in Chiang Mai, Thailand. We also listed some of the best travel deals, tour packages, and excellent flight deals and accommodation.
Searching for the best hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our list of affordable Chiang Mai hotels and resorts via Agoda, Booking, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
Want more updates about new package tours and tourist spots in Chiang Mai, Thailand? Follow #TeamOutofTown, on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.
Also read:
- Exploring The Best Of Chiang Mai In Two Days
- Every Beginner’s Guide To Sustainable Tourism In Chiang Mai
- Top 10 Best Hotels And Resorts In Chiang Mai, Thailand
- A Day At The Elephant Sanctuary In Chiang Mai, Thailand
