Top 10 Best Things to do in Chiang Mai

Introduction

Whether you plan to interact with elephants, trek through hill tribe villages, or browse the night markets, you will find an abundance of things to do in Chiang Mai. The city also serves as an ideal pit stop before heading north to Pai or Chiang Rai. Whatever your purpose, join Thai Unika as we explore the top 10 must-try experiences in Chiang Mai below!

Come along with Thai Unika as we discover the top 10 must-try experiences in Chiang Mai

Top 10 Best Things to do in Chiang Mai

Marvel at the temples

Exploring temples is one of the essential things to do in Chiang Mai. The city and its surrounding countryside house over 300 Buddhist sites, many built in the "Lanna style" with curved wooden roofs.

While visiting every site is tempting, your feet may not thank you for such an undertaking. Instead, consider these 5 most impressive "wats" for your list of Chiang Mai activities: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Umong, and Wat Sri Suphan.

Exploring temples is among the best things to do in Chiang Mai

Visit Doi Inthanon National Park

Visiting the "Roof of Thailand" is one of the top things to do in Chiang Mai. This national park features trails, villages, farms, waterfalls, and viewpoints.

A major highlight is the summit at 2,565 meters. You can reach this peak by car or hike from the parking area. While exploring the main road near the summit, you will find Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Nophamethanidon. These twin pagodas are definitely must-try experiences in Chiang Mai.

Discover Doi Inthanon National Park in 3 days with us here

A waterfall in Doi Inthanon National Park

Stroll through the colorful markets

Shopping for souvenirs and local food remains one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai. During the day, you can walk the aisles of Talat Warorot, the city's largest market. Located next to Chinatown, this spot is popular with locals for everything from food stalls to clothing.

In the evening, the Night Bazaar on Chang Klan Road opens daily from 6 PM. You will find handicrafts made by hill tribes here, though prices are often higher at this tourist-focused market. 

For those seeking more Chiang Mai vacation ideas, the Saturday or Sunday Night Markets are worth trying. These weekend markets offer handicrafts and clothes at more attractive prices, often cheaper than Bangkok’s Chatuchak.

Thai Street Food is the Best 

As you stroll through Chiang Mai's night markets and shopping avenues, don't hesitate to open your senses to their culinary delights!

Sampling Thai cuisine is a must when you visit Chiang Mai

Thai cuisine may be renowned for its spicy dishes, but it also offers a wide range of gastronomic selections that might suit your palate. Be brave and order a small sample of something, ANYTHING (even exotic insect dishes!) - especially if you see many Thais lining up in front of a stall to get their order.

Must-try dishes include the popular Khao Soi (egg noodle curry), satay, curries, pad thai, coconut quail eggs, and many more!

See elephants in an ethical way

Moving on, visiting an ethical sanctuary is among the most meaningful things to do in Chiang Mai. While Thailand's elephant tourism once involved cruel training for rides, you can now experience companionship at legitimate sites like Elephant Nature Park.

This sanctuary protects elephants rescued from the logging and tourism industries. They do not force animals to perform tricks or give rides. Instead, you can engage with them through walks, feeding, and mud playtime. Following a responsible Chiang Mai travel guide allows you to support their well-being and observe natural behaviors.

Elephant tourism in Thailand now allows ethical encounters at sanctuaries like Elephant Nature Park

Take a cooking class in Chiang Mai

If eating isn't enough, why not try learning how to prepare some popular Thai dishes? Chiang Mai is the ideal place to learn how to prepare delicious dishes and uncover the secrets of Thai cuisine. 

You can also keep the recipes and recreate them at home. There are a number of cooking schools with experienced local chefs offering both vegan and non-vegan courses. Here are some great cooking classes in Chiang Mai for you to choose: Sammy's Organic Thai Cooking School, Thai Farm Cooking School, Mama Noi Cookery School.

Explore Tribal Villages

If you're seeking more immersive things to do in Chiang Mai, consider visiting its tribal villages to get up close to the locals. Here are two highly recommended places:

• Karen Long Neck Tribe

Located near Myanmar border, the Karen Long Neck Tribe is known the world over for their unique custom of wearing brass coils around the neck, arms, and legs. This tradition creates the illusion of an elongated neck, and it is believed that the more rings a woman wears, the more beautiful and protected she is.

For more immersive things to do in Chiang Mai, let’s visit tribal villages 

• Doi Pui Tribal Village and National Park

In the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Doi Pui is the highest peak in the region. Among its breathtaking scenery, the Hmong tribal village is a much sought-after attraction in Chiang Mai. 

Exploring this village will give you an insight into the particular way of life of the hill tribes. 

To better understand their lifestyle and history, join this tour Hill Tribe Treks Of Chiang Mai 3 days

Watch a Thai boxing match

The list of best things to do in Chiang Mai continues with watching a Thai boxing match. Its fighting technique stems from the military training methods of Thai soldiers, and is now Thailand's national sport. 

To be more informative, there are 3 big Muay Thai venues in Chiang Mai: Kalare Stadium, Thapae Boxing Stadium, and Loi Kroh Stadium. Admission often costs between 400 and 600 Baht. Don't hesitate to ask the hotel’s staff, they'll be able to tell you where the fights take place depending on the day of the week.

Experience a traditional Thai massage

Don't miss out on a special Chiang Mai highlight without treating yourself to a spa session after all the touring you'll be doing. Indulge in the Thai massage, an unforgettable pampering experience that will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated.

A Thai body massage often costs about 500 Baht

You'll find spas all over the city, around the temples, and in the streets of the old town. Most hotels also offer massage sessions. A one-hour foot massage costs around 250 Baht, and a body massage is about 500 Baht. For the latter, the experience is quite distinctive, as you'll be pulled in all directions, and you're bound to come out a little sore. But don't worry, the benefits will be felt afterwards!

Zip line in Chiang Mai 

Ziplining in Chiang Mai is an excellent activity if you want to combine nature and adventure. And if you're visiting Chiang Mai as a family, it'll give your kids a chance to let off some steam and alternate with visits to temples or towns.

FAQ

• How many days are enough for Chiang Mai?

3 to 5 days is ideal. This allows enough time to explore the Old City temples, visit an ethical elephant sanctuary, take a day trip to Doi Inthanon, and experience the weekend night markets without rushing.

Ziplining is one of the best activities in Chiang Mai for combining nature with adventure

• When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

The best time is from November to February when the weather is cool and dry. It is highly recommended to avoid the "burning season" from late February to April, as agricultural fires cause severe smog and poor air quality.

• How do I get around Chiang Mai?

The most convenient options are Grab (ride-hailing app), songthaews (red shared trucks), and tuk-tuks. Renting a scooter is a popular choice, but only recommended if you hold an international driving permit and have riding experience.

• What should I wear when visiting temples?

You must dress modestly. Both men and women need to cover their shoulders and knees. Bring a sarong or light jacket to cover up, and wear slip-on shoes since you must remove them before entering temple buildings.

Conclusion

Experience the wonders of Chiang Mai with these 10 best things to do in Chiang Mai! From exploring ancient temples to indulging in mouthwatering street food, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime - contact Thai Unika now to plan your trip to Chiang Mai and create unforgettable memories! Let the journey begin!

Want to experience these highlights effortlessly? Explore our Chiang Mai tour