Top Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

If you’ve been following our adventures, you know that we recently spent a month in Thailand. And the largest portion of that time was spent in the north. Chiang Mai was nothing short of magical. From bustling weekend markets to more removed serene temples, this city was absolutely awesome! Chiang Mai was such a captivating stop on our journey and I’m sure it’ll find a place in your heart too. Let’s dive into some of our top tips for visiting Chiang Mai.

Night Markets 🛍️

Chiang Mai’s Sunday night market is the biggest in Thailand and definitely worth planning your trip around. As twilight sets, the streets come alive with vendors, artisans, and performers. The vibes are exquisite and there’s an endless array of things to buy. There are unique crafts (we bought a really lovely handmade ornament), delicious street food (highly recommend the khao soi), and we even got street massages (also highly recommend after a big day of walking!).

— TODO photo from night market —

The Sunday night market mostly runs along Ratchadamnoen Road, and goes from 4PM until midnight. Roads are closed off to cars at this time.

Apart from the Sunday night market, Chiang Mai has other evening bazaars that run throughout the week, including one that we stumbled into on Saturday. They’re great for shopping, food, and local performances.

Temples ⛩️

Chiang Mai has some of the best temples we saw in Thailand. And they are everywhere! Their intricate carvings, shimmering gold stupas, and the serene ambiance inside and around most of the temples make them a must-visit. You’ll see so many just walking around the Old City. Here are a few photos from some of the smaller temples in the Old City just a few blocks away from each other:

In terms of standouts, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is definitely one not to miss. While it is a little outside of the Old City, you could either take a tuk-tuk there or a guided tour for around $20. This temple is positioned atop a hill and offers breathtaking views of the city, especially during sunset. We went during the sun set and can highly recommend it! Imagine watching the golden hour from such a sacred place – truly a memory I’ll cherish forever.

Doi Inthanon National Park 🌳

A day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park was an adventure in itself. Think mist-covered mountains, cascading waterfalls, and the feeling of being on top of the world. The park, often referred to as the “roof of Thailand,” provides some of the most stunning vistas in the clouds. We happened to go on a day where it wasn’t super sunny, but it was still gorgeous, and we had a really fun time on our tour, which also stopped by a very cool waterfall and village where we had freshly-roasted coffee. In terms of getting there, we would definitely recommend you go with a tour on this one as its a bit further out of town. Prices are around $50 per person, and definitely worth it.

Northern Thai Food 🍜

One word: khao soi. If there’s one dish you need to savor in Chiang Mai, this is it. Khao soi is a rich, creamy curry noodle soup typical of northern Thailand. It’s a beautiful blend of spices, coconut milk, and a hint of lime, with tender meat (usually chicken or beef) – absolutely delicious!

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary 🐘

Though I visited the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Phuket, I’ve heard rave reviews about the one in Chiang Mai from friends. After a lot of research, this particular group of sanctuaries seemed the most humane and authentic.

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary offers a compassionate way to interact with elephants, ensuring their well-being and comfort. It’s about watching these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, sans chains or tricks. We did a half day program, which I thought was perfect, but they also offer more extensive full day options.

Quick Tips for Your Chiang Mai Adventure 🌟

Stay for the Sunday Market: Trust me, you won’t regret it. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and taste local delicacies.

• Getting Around: Navigating Chiang Mai is pretty simple. When in doubt, hail a tuk-tuk. Not only are they efficient, but they also add to the whole Thai experience.

• Dress Appropriately for Temples: While Chiang Mai can be quite warm, remember to dress modestly when visiting temples. This means covering your shoulders and wearing pants or skirts that go past your knees. Many temples offer sarongs for rent or purchase if you forget.

• Stay Hydrated: The Thai sun can be relentless, especially if you’re exploring during the day. Carry a reusable water bottle and keep sipping throughout your adventures.

• Use baht: Generally you’ll get a bette deal if you’re paying with thai baht. Definitely keep some around to buy things and give tips with.

• Local SIM Card: Grabbing a local SIM card at the airport or in town is relatively cheap and will keep you connected. This can be super helpful for navigating, translating, or checking opening times of attractions.

• Learn a Few Thai Phrases: While many in Chiang Mai speak English, especially in tourist areas, it’s always appreciated when you try a few words in Thai. “Sawasdee” (Hello) and “Khob khun” (Thank you) can go a long way.

• Enjoy the Local Coffee: The coffee is SO good in northern Thailand, and there’s a strong cafe culture in Chiang Mai. We loved stopping by one of the many cute cafes and having an iced latte while we relaxed of planned the rest of our trip.

Armed with these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to dive deep into the wonders of Chiang Mai and enjoy an authentic and hassle-free experience. Safe travels! ✨🎒🌸