Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chaing Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, is known for its rich culture, temples, and natural beauty. Here are 20 must-visit places, along with their entrance fees, highlights of the place, how to get there, places to eat and opening hours:

 

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

  • Entrance Fee: 30 THB
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Highlights: Stunning views of the city, intricate temple architecture.
  • How to Get There: 30-minute drive from the city center; songthaew or taxi recommended.
  • Nearby Eats: Huen Phen (traditional Northern Thai cuisine).

Wat Chedi Luang

  • Entrance Fee: Free (donation suggested)
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Historic temple with a massive chedi, beautiful architecture.
  • How to Get There: Located in the Old City; easily walkable.
  • Nearby Eats: Khao Soi Khun Yai (famous for khao soi).

Wat Phra Singh

  • Entrance Fee: Free (donation suggested)
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Lanna architecture, home to the revered Phra Singh Buddha.
  • How to Get There: In the Old City; easily walkable.
  • Nearby Eats: The Gallery (fusion Thai cuisine).

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 PM
  • Highlights: Vibrant market atmosphere, local handicrafts, and street food.
  • How to Get There: Central location; accessible by tuk-tuk or walking.
  • Nearby Eats: Numerous street food stalls.

Doi Inthanon National Park

  • Entrance Fee: 300 THB (Thai), 600 THB (foreigners)
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Highlights: Thailand’s highest peak, stunning waterfalls, and nature trails.
  • How to Get There: 1.5-hour drive; guided tours available.
  • Nearby Eats: Local eateries near the park entrance.

Elephant Nature Park

  • Entrance Fee: 3,000 THB (full day)
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Ethical elephant sanctuary focused on rehabilitation.
  • How to Get There: About 1-hour drive; shuttle service from the city available.
  • Nearby Eats: Lunch provided at the park.

Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium

  • Entrance Fee: 150 THB (zoo), 250 THB (zoo & aquarium)
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Large variety of animals, including pandas; impressive aquarium.
  • How to Get There: Short taxi or songthaew ride from the city.
  • Nearby Eats: Zoo cafeteria.

Baan Tawai Village

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Opening Hours: Shops vary; best during daylight.
  • Highlights: Handicraft village known for wood carvings and artisan goods.
  • How to Get There: 30-minute drive from the city center; taxi or songthaew recommended.
  • Nearby Eats: Local cafes.

Wat Umong

  • Entrance Fee: Free (donation suggested)
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Unique forest temple with ancient tunnels and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • How to Get There: Short taxi or songthaew ride from the city.
  • Nearby Eats: Local eateries nearby.

Nimmanhaemin Road

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Opening Hours: Shops and cafes vary.
  • Highlights: Trendy area for shopping, cafes, and nightlife.
  • How to Get There: Short taxi or songthaew ride from the Old City.
  • Nearby Eats: Ristr8to Coffee (famous for specialty coffee).

Warorot Market

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Highlights: Traditional market with food, textiles, and local products.
  • How to Get There: Walkable from the Night Bazaar or take a tuk-tuk.
  • Nearby Eats: Local food stalls and eateries in the market.

Wat Phra That Doi Kham

  • Entrance Fee: Free (donation suggested)
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Scenic views and a large seated Buddha statue.
  • How to Get There: 20-minute drive from the city; songthaews available.
  • Nearby Eats: Small restaurants nearby.

Chiang Mai Art and Cultural Center

  • Entrance Fee: 90 THB
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Exhibits on Chiang Mai’s history and culture.
  • How to Get There: Located in the Old City; easily walkable.
  • Nearby Eats: Local cafes.

Lanna Folklife Museum

  • Entrance Fee: 100 THB
  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Insights into Lanna culture and traditions.
  • How to Get There: In the Old City; easily walkable.
  • Nearby Eats: Local eateries nearby.

Trekking in the surrounding mountains

  • Entrance Fee: Varies by tour.
  • Opening Hours: Depends on tour.
  • Highlights: Beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and hill tribes.
  • How to Get There: Guided tours usually include transportation.
  • Nearby Eats: Lunch often provided on tours.

Huay Tung Tao Lake

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Scenic lake ideal for picnics and relaxing.
  • How to Get There: 20-minute drive; songthaew or taxi recommended.
  • Nearby Eats: Lakeside restaurants.

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park

  • Entrance Fee: 200 THB (Thai), 300 THB (foreigners)
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Highlights: Stunning natural beauty, trekking trails, waterfalls.
  • How to Get There: 30-minute drive; taxi or tour recommended.
  • Nearby Eats: Local food vendors.

Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple)

  • Entrance Fee: Free (donation suggested)
  • Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Unique silver architecture and intricate designs.
  • How to Get There: Short taxi or songthaew ride from the Old City.
  • Nearby Eats: Local eateries nearby.

Chiang Mai Flower Festival (seasonal)

  • Entrance Fee: Free (during the festival)
  • Opening Hours: Early February.
  • Highlights: Flower displays, parades, and cultural performances.
  • How to Get There: Central location; accessible by walking.
  • Nearby Eats: Festival food stalls.

Sankamphaeng Hot Springs

  • Entrance Fee: 40 THB
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Highlights: Natural hot springs and bathing pools.
  • How to Get There: 30-minute drive; songthaew or taxi recommended.
  • Nearby Eats: Local food stalls.

Best Time to Visit

  • November to February: Cool and dry season, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
  • March to May: Hot season; best for visiting waterfalls and nature.
  • June to October: Rainy season; fewer tourists, lush landscapes, but expect rain.

Festivals Celebrated

  • Yi Peng Lantern Festival: November (full moon); lanterns released into the sky.
  • Songkran (Thai New Year): April 13-15; water festival celebrating the new year.
  • Loi Krathong: November (full moon); floating lanterns and offerings to water spirits.
  • Flower Festival: Early February; flower parades and displays.

Moving Around in Chiang Mai

  • Songthaews: Shared red trucks; inexpensive and popular for short trips.
  • Tuk-tuks: Great for quick rides; negotiate the fare beforehand.
  • Bicycles: Rent a bike for exploring the Old City and surroundings.
  • Motorbike Rentals: Convenient but ensure you have a valid license.
  • Walking: The Old City is pedestrian-friendly; perfect for exploring.

Lessons Available

  • Yoga:

    • Yoga Tree: Offers a variety of classes.
    • Dharma Yoga Studio: Known for different styles of yoga.

  • Cooking:

    • Baipai Thai Cooking School: Highly rated classes with hands-on experience.
    • Thai Farm Cooking School: Learn to cook in a beautiful rural setting.

  • Defense Classes:

    • Muay Thai Gyms: Options like Chay Yai Muay Thai and Santai Muay Thai for beginners and experienced fighters.

Chiang Mai is a city rich in culture and activities, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and learning! Enjoy your trip!

These locations showcase Chiang Mai’s blend of culture, history, nature, and contemporary attractions.