Chiang Mai is one of the most popular regions in Thailand that making its place secure on the top of the must-visited list of every tourist. Once you are here, you will find it difficult to make plans for other places as the region will enchant you with its beauty. Here are some of the amazing places in Chiang Mai that you should visit now. Read on to know more-
12 Beautiful Places To Visit In Chiang Mai, Thailand:
1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
When you are in Chiang Mai, keep this mountain-top temple on the top of your must-visit places. The central shrine of the seated Buddha is one of the major tourist attractions of this place. You can reach the top of the mountain by renting a motorbike or hiking.
Otherwise, you can also ride a songthaew, a red truck that is operated as communal cabs, to reach the temple. The steps start at the base of the temple and you will find lots of shops selling antiques, souvenirs, snacks, etc. You should gear up to reach the temple as the steps are very steep. But, if you can make it, the panoramic view from the mountain-top will wipe off all the tiredness of your journey.
Essence: Revered by locals and tourists alike, this mountaintop temple is a symbol of Chiang Mai.
Experiences:
- Naga Staircase Climb: The staircase, adorned with serpents, leads you to the serene temple, offering a meditative journey.
- City Views: A panoramic lookout over Chiang Mai rewards you at the top, especially breathtaking at sunset.
Quick Tip: Visiting early provides a peaceful ambiance and the best lighting for photography.
2. Wat Phra Singh
The Buddhist temples are the major attractions of Thailand and Wat Phra Singh is in Chiang Mai. This is also one of the oldest temples in Thailand.
Once you are here, the gold-plated pagoda will blow your mind. Also, you can witness the exclusive Thai Lanna style of architecture in the motifs and décor of the temple.
Essence: A prime example of Lanna architecture, Wat Phra Singh holds the revered Phra Singh Buddha statue.
Experiences:
- Admire Lanna Art: Explore the intricate wood carvings and colorful murals within the viharn.
- Join Local Worship: Experience the spiritual atmosphere as locals come to pay respects.
Quick Tip: Visit during Songkran (Thai New Year) in April when the Buddha statue is paraded through the streets.
Read also: Discover the Best Destinations in Thailand for October Travel
3. Doi Inthanon National Park
The tour to Chiang Mai is incomplete if you miss visiting Doi Inthanon National Park. This park is a part of the Doi Inthanon Mountain range and is also one of your favorite tourist destinations for you. Doi Inthanon is also the highest peak in Thailand and is thus known as ‘the roof of Thailand’.
At this park, you will find sparkling waterfalls, amazing sunrise/sunset points, isolated towns, and so on to enjoy. For nature lovers and birdwatchers, this place is ideal. You will also enjoy the chilly weather here due to the elevation.
Essence: The highest peak in Thailand, surrounded by waterfalls, forest trails, and cultural landmarks.
Experiences:
- Summit Adventure: Trek or drive to the peak for cool air and sweeping mountain views.
- King and Queen Pagodas: Pay tribute at these twin pagodas, beautifully landscaped with gardens.
- Waterfall Wonder: Stop at Wachirathan and Sirithan Falls for a refreshing break in nature.
Quick Tip: Layer up! Temperatures at the summit are often much cooler than in Chiang Mai.
4. Doi Pui Village
This is a small Hmong village in Chiang Mai that attracts many tourists to enjoy the beauty of the place. There are beautiful gardens in this village where you can dress like the ethnic people and click some wonderful snaps.
For shopping, this place can be ideal as there are shops for hand-woven textiles, tea, handmade jewelry, and lots of other goods. You will find small and nice restaurants over there to try the authentic dishes of Chiang Mai, like Khao Soi.
Essence: A Hmong village rich in culture, traditions, and natural beauty.
Experiences:
- Stroll Through Gardens: Walk among colorful blooms and hillside views.
- Local Craft Shopping: Find unique Hmong textiles, clothing, and souvenirs crafted by villagers.
- Cultural Learning: Explore the museum for an insightful look into Hmong traditions and lifestyle.
Quick Tip: Don’t miss the traditional Hmong coffee served in small village cafes.
5. Bo Sang Umbrella Village
This place is unique and will make your day happier with vibrancy and positivity. The name of this village has come from the colorful and bright fans and umbrellas that are used to decorate the village.
There are shops to buy souvenirs and other unique items such as memoirs for your friends and relatives. To understand the cultural heritage of Thailand closely, you should visit this village once.
Essence: Known for hand-painted parasols, this village celebrates a unique craft tradition.
Experiences:
- Workshop Visits: Watch skilled artisans create and paint umbrellas in vibrant colors.
- Artistry Souvenirs: Take home beautiful handcrafted items like umbrellas, fans, and wall hangings.
Quick Tip: If visiting in January, enjoy the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival with street parades and craft displays.
6. Wat Chedi Luang
While you are in Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai, it is the ruins that will interest you the most. You will find those in abundance in Chiang Mai and Wat Chedi Luang is a place of interest. This temple was constructed in 1401, but a massive earthquake in 1545 turned it into ruins.
But, still, the work of architecture is remarkable today. you can see the outstanding elephant cravings at the entrance. There is also the shrine of the guardian spirit of Chiang Mai, Lak Muang. This wooden building was constructed in 1940. At night, it is a great deal to watch as it is all lit up.
Essence: An ancient temple in the heart of Chiang Mai, famous for its massive stupa and monk programs.
Experiences:
- Monk Chat: Engage in conversations with monks to learn about Buddhism and local culture.
- Explore the Chedi Ruins: This partially ruined stupa stands as a testament to Chiang Mai’s history.
Quick Tip: Dress modestly, as it is a highly respected religious site.
7. Wiang Kum Kam
It is wonderful countryside, located in the south of Chiang Mai. The ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam is now a ruin, but still holds the signs of the Hariphunchal Kingdom of the 18th Century.
You will find the Mon scripts on stone tables, earthenware, pottery, Buddhist statues, and many more things of the past that will interest you. If you are a history buff or ruins always fascinate you, this place is worth visiting.
Essence: An ancient city with ruins dating back to the Lanna Kingdom, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Experiences:
- Horse Carriage Tours: Traverse the site with a guided horse carriage ride for an old-world feel.
- Temple Exploration: Discover Wat Chedi Liam and other ruins showcasing Lanna architecture.
Quick Tip: Visit during cooler parts of the day to avoid the midday heat.
8. Chang Puak Gate Night Market
To enjoy the nightlife of Chiang Mai and to shop to your heart’s content, you can always visit this throbbing night market in Chiang Mai. This place is the ideal destination for shopaholics who like to roam around from shop to shop, bargain the price, and buy items.
This market will offer you outstanding collections of perfumes, clothing, accessories, wood carvings, belts, shoes, candles, lanterns, housewares, and many more things. There are lots of street food corners where you taste the scrumptious dishes while roaming around. Also, you will find street performers, sketch artists, etc. to entertain you.
Essence: A vibrant street market with some of the best local food stalls in Chiang Mai.
Experiences:
- Street Food Feast: Sample local delicacies like pork skewers, Thai pancakes, and fried chicken.
- Shopping Treasures: Find unique and affordable souvenirs from local artisans.
Quick Tip: Go with an appetite; the array of food is extensive and budget-friendly.
9. Highland People Discovery Museum
If you have a thing for history and find interested in old objects, this museum will seem appealing to you. Popularly known as Chiang Mai’s Tribal Museum, this place will give you a basic idea about the lifestyle and culture of the hill tribes of Thailand before you go on trekking to the hilly areas to know more about them.
This small ethnographic museum holds several exhibits from the tribal life that includes their clothes, accessories, jewelry, handicraft, musical instruments, and a lot more. You can also attend the photo and video presentation sessions that show the difference among each tribe and also their significance. Visit the gift shop of the museum to buy some authentic tribal work.
Essence: A museum dedicated to Thailand’s diverse hill tribes, highlighting their culture and heritage.
Experiences:
- Interactive Exhibits: Explore traditional tools, costumes, and crafts from tribes such as the Hmong, Karen, and Akha.
- Cultural Understanding: Learn about traditional ceremonies and ways of life through detailed exhibits.
Quick Tip: Combine this visit with a trip to the Chiang Mai Zoo, which is nearby.
10. Elephant Conservation Center
How about spending some time with the giant yet peaceful and lovable animals? You can do that at the Elephant Conservation Centre of Chiang Mai where you can feed them and bathe them too. Established in 1993, this center is a government organization.
The gigantic mammals are friendly and they can paint or play musical instruments too for you. It will be a relaxing experience if you spend some time at this center with the little ones of your family.
Essence: A sanctuary promoting ethical elephant tourism, where elephants roam freely in a natural environment.
Experiences:
- Hands-On Interaction: Feed and bathe elephants under the guidance of caretakers.
- Conservation Education: Gain insights into elephant welfare and sustainable tourism.
Quick Tip: Pre-booking is often required; prioritize ethical centers to ensure animal welfare.
11. Lanna Folklife Museum
This is another authentic source for the tourists who are here to learn more about the culture and tradition of the region. First of all, it is the outstanding white building that will create a sense of serenity in you.
Besides, the architecture of the building and the intriguing artifacts will blow your mind once you enter. There are 18 exhibitions are arranged by the museum that shows the cultural heritage and lifestyle of the people of the region.
Essence: A museum offering an immersive look into traditional Lanna culture and folk traditions.
Experiences:
- Cultural Artifacts: View traditional costumes, ceramics, and religious relics.
- Art Appreciation: Admire Lanna art forms like wood carvings and mural paintings.
Quick Tip: Consider pairing this visit with a trip to the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center for a deeper understanding of Lanna heritage.
12. Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls
Chiang Mai is a place with stunning natural phenomena and this waterfall requires special mention on the list. As the water rushes down over the limestone, it makes it sticky, so you have to be very careful if you are climbing above.
But, if you can do so, the view will blow your head. Is absolutely magnificent beauty of the waterfall and the woods around it take your breath away.
Essence: Unique limestone waterfalls where visitors can “stick” to the rock and climb up the cascading water.
Experiences:
- Waterfall Climb: Enjoy climbing the natural limestone rocks without slipping, thanks to their texture.
- Forest Picnic: Pack a lunch and enjoy a scenic meal in the surrounding greenery.
Quick Tip: Wear quick-drying clothes, as the climb can get a bit wet!
Hopefully, now you know the best places to visit in Chiang Mai. This region will surprise you in every fold and you will fall in love with it.
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