Bangkok Airways Round Up
- Chiang Mai, one of Thailand’s most famous travel destinations, is located in the northern part of the country. While It is not the largest province of Thailand by area, it is home to hundreds of named mountains, making it an ultimate landmark for experiencing the most beautiful scenic views, such as a sea of mist, multiple layers of mountains, or even a huge cave complex.
- As the former capital of Lanna Kingdom, the city is rich in cultural and history stories and heritages. It is worth a visit for its authentic ancient ruins, exquisite Buddhist temples, and must-try traditional cuisine. When combined with the city’s modern lifestyle, these elements create a unique and captivating atmosphere.
What Makes Chiang Mai a Must-Visit Destination in Thailand?
Known for its mountainous landscape and historical sites, Chiang Mai offers a variety of hidden gems waiting to be discovered by enthusiastic travelers across the world. From Thailand’s highest mountain, hundreds of Lanna-style temples, and charming villages situated in the heart of a mountain, there is no wonder why Chiang Mai is listed as one of the top destinations for sightseeing that everyone should visit at least once in a lifetime.
Bangkok Airways has curated the 15 best things to do in Chiang Mai to make your trip more memorable. Whether you’re leisurely strolling along a historical site or challenging yourself by conquering the peak of a mountain, let’s dive into this totally-worth-a-visit wonderland and explore what’s waiting for you.
Discover Chiang Mai: 15 Best Things to Do
1. Walk up the 300-step Naga Staircase to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Famous for its 300-step staircase lined up with captivating Nagas, a snake-like creature from Buddhist mythology, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is considered one of the must-visit landmarks in Chiang Mai. Even though 300 steps might sound tiring, the stunning greenery and shades that shelter the staircase along the way will make you completely forget your fatigue. However, cable car service is also available in case you prefer a more convenient way to enjoy the journey.
Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a beautiful golden temple, which glows even more brilliantly at sunset, along with a panoramic view of Chiang Mai city. Don’t forget to pay respect and worship the Buddha statues to find peace of mind in a Thai way. At the base of the staircase, you can enjoy eating food and shopping for souvenirs from a huge line of tourist-friendly vendors and stalls.
Opening Hours: 6:00 am–8:00 pm
2. Pay Respect to Buddha Statues & Appreciate the Art of Wat Phra Singh
Wat Phra Singh, another significant landmark of Chiang Mai, is a temple located in the heart of the city. Built during the Lanna Kingdom in the 14th century, this Lanna-style temple continues to serve as an important historical site for local people.
Explore the many spiritual sites at Wat Phra Singh temple. Upon entering, the first thing you will encounter is an enormous main hall, known as Wihan Luang, which houses a massive, golden Buddha statue. You can join the locals in praying, making an offering, and worshiping the statue.
Another iconic site is Wihan Lai Kham, an assembly hall decorated with picturesque murals on both sides of the wall, depicting interesting Lanna folk tales and the lives of the Lanna people. Not only that, next to the hall is a giant Chedi, painted in gold and decorated with elephant sculptures emerging from each side.
Opening Hours: 7:00 am–6:00 pm
3. Take Some Cool Pictures at Bo Kaeo Pine Tree Garden
Bo Kaeo Pine Tree Garden is a picturesque, man-made garden featuring thousands of majestic pine trees, some of which are believed to be over 40 years old. Nestled amidst serene mountain landscapes, the garden offers a peaceful retreat, just a 2.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai city. Thanks to its elevated location, the weather remains pleasantly cool year-round. For those visiting during winter, be sure to bring along extra layers to stay warm and fully enjoy the tranquil beauty of this natural haven.
Opening Hours: 8:00 am–5:00 pm
4. Climb Doi Pha Hom Pok Mountain
Doi Pha Hom Pok, Thailand’s second-highest mountain, offers an unforgettable array of sightseeing experiences: a panoramic view of a lush mountain range, an endless sea of mist, a cool breeze, and a glittering starry night sky.
To reach the top, first, you need to spend a night at the campsite. Then, leave at 4:00 am and walk through a dense forest to reach the top at 5:30 am. This 3.5-kilometer-long trek usually takes around 1–1.30 hours, depending on the individual. Once you reach the summit, savor the sunrise and the picturesque scenery while leisurely feeling the surrounding vibes of the heavenly nature.
Opening Hours: 8:00 am–4:30 pm
5. Navigate through Chiang Dao Cave
Chiang Dao Cave is another must-visit destination in Chiang Mai, renowned for its expansive network of over 100 caves, of which only 5 are open to visitors. It is an enormous cave with thousands of captivating natural stalagmite and stalactite that will leave you with lasting memories. Whether you are a visitor who prefers a relaxing trip or an adventurer who is looking for something more challenging, this tourist attraction offers you both options.
Among the 5 accessible caves, 2 of them are easy to navigate through by yourself as the pathway is lit with electricity. For the remaining 3 caves, hiring a local guide and a gas lamp are recommended as there is no electricity to guide you around. Despite being a massive cave, there are some tight spots that will require you to squeeze yourself through and a lot of ups and downs. You can also find a lot of Buddha statues and shrines along the way, adding even more charms to the place.
Opening Hours: 7:00 am–5:00 pm
6. Boil Your Own Eggs at Fang Hot Springs
Not only mountains and caves, but Chiang Mai also offers a wide variety of natural attractions, including Fang Hot Springs. Located in Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park, there are more than 50 natural hot springs scattered all over the area, ranging from 30–80 degrees Celsius. A highlight not to be missed is the breathtaking hot stream, a result of hot magma flowing beneath the earth’s crust, that shoots up from the ground to an impressive height of 40–50 meters every 30 minutes.
To make some more unforgettable memories, buy some eggs at the attraction and boil them by yourself in a hot spring. Be careful not to fall in the pond. All in all, this hot spring is well worth a visit, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and playful fun.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am–5:30 pm
7. Hike Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail at Doi Inthanon National Park
If you are a trekking enthusiast, Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is something you shouldn’t miss. It is located in Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand, which means it’s cold all year and could even reach 0 degrees Celsius during winter. Even though it requires some effort to go up and down the hills, it is not too difficult for a beginner to complete.
This 3 km-long trail consists of 3 stages and takes only 2 hours to finish.
- The first stage is a cloud forest, which is filled with not only evergreen trees but also moss and ferns thanks to its high moisture level. While hiking, you will spot a variety of beautiful winter flowers, colorful singing birds, and a small waterfall.
- The second stage comes with the spectacular panoramic view of a mountain range and, if lucky, a mesmerizing sea of white clouds.
- The third stage will take you back to the forest, where you can enjoy the sounds of peaceful nature again.
Despite being easy to hike, hiring a local guide is still required. The attraction is open for visitors from 1 November to 31 March every year.
Opening Hours: 6:00 am–4:00 pm
8. Watch Sunrise over a Sea of Clouds at Doi Luang Chiang Dao
If you’re a thrill-seeker who loves a challenge, Doi Luang Chiang Dao should be on your bucket list. As the third tallest mountain in Thailand, its rocky, steep trails make it much more challenging and adventurous. To reach the peak, there are two main trails for you to choose from: the Den Ya Khad Trail and the Pang Wua Trail. Despite being 8.5 km long, the first trail is more popular due to its ease of hiking compared to the second trail, which is significantly steeper despite being only 6.5 km long.
Although a one-day hike is possible, a two-day hike is recommended as it allows you to catch the iconic sunrise with a 360-degree view over an endless sea of clouds. The rare plants and animals only found in highlands add even more charm to the journey during the hike.
As Doi Luang Chiang Dao is located in the Chiang Dao Wildlife Reserve Area, hikers need to submit some paperwork for permission and make a reservation at least 2 weeks prior to their trip. Please note that the trail is open only from November to March and limits 100 to 150 hikers per week.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am–4:00 pm
9. Wander around Mon Jam Purple Verbena Flower Farm
A Chiang Mai trip wouldn’t be complete without a trip to a colorful flower garden. Known for its flower-farm agritourism, Mon Jam is home to plenty of local flower farms where visitors are attracted by breathtaking blooming flora of all colors.
Rao Dok Lom Nhao Community Garden, one of the most famous floral gardens in Mon Jam, is a well-maintained floral paradise you shouldn’t miss. The highlight of this garden is its stunning purple verbena field, offering a dreamlike and picturesque setting. Beyond the verbena, you’ll find an array of other gorgeous winter blooms, including delicate white daisies, cheerful cosmos, and more—perfect for admiring and capturing unforgettable photos.
It is located on a scenic hilltop surrounded by mountainous landscape, making it a highly romantic landmark. Please note that, since they grow different kinds of flowers in each season, make sure to double-check with the official website first.
Opening Hours: 7:00 am–6:00 pm
10. Walk through Canopy Walkway at the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden
The Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden is Thailand’s first botanic garden that covers around 2,500 acres. It is a must-visit destination among nature enthusiasts who are looking for a peaceful environment, as it features a large number of marvelous plants and flowers across the regions that will take you a whole day to explore.
Its highlights, apart from greenhouses and gardens, are the 400-meter-long canopy walkway. This sturdy yet thrilling trail allows you to experience the lush forests and mountains from the tops of the trees while listening to the soothing songs of singing birds. The walkway is remarkably simple to navigate, making it accessible for visitors of all ages, from young children to the elderly, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am–4:30 pm
11. Experience Village Life at Mae Kampong Village
Mae Kampong Village is a small village situated in the heart of a dense forest in a mountain with only 130 houses and 370 residents. What makes this village stand out is how it preserves its traditional architecture so well—all houses are made out of wood.
Most visitors come here to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the village, stroll along the street to sample traditional cuisine like northern-style hot sausages and Khao Soi, and stop at a rustic cafe to enjoy a cup of homemade coffee. The peaceful lifestyle of the villagers will eventually encourage you to slow down and take a deep breath of cool, fresh air. If you would like to explore more about Mae Kampong Village, check out this article: Escape to Mae Kampong: Thailand’s Haven of Natural Beauty and Peace
Opening Hours: Each business starts at various times.
12. Try Local Cuisine at Tha Phae Walking Street
Tha Phae Walking Street, the biggest walking street in Thailand with a length of 1.5 km, is open for tourists and Thai locals every Sunday from 5:00 pm to almost midnight. This bustling market offers countless types of items and souvenirs to shop for and explore, such as traditional clothing, accessories, handmade crafts, arts, and a wide array of unique goods.
Don’t miss the iconic local cuisine and drinks that are scattered all over the market while you enjoy the cool street performances from the locals. This captivating street market and friendly vendors surely will leave you with a perfectly laid-back evening atmosphere as well as the memorable impression of the hustle and bustle of Chiang Mai’s old city.
Opening Hours: Sunday, 5:00 pm–10:30 pm
13. Admire the Traditional Thai Architecture at Bhubing Rajanives Palace
The Bhubing Rajanives Palace, a stunning royal palace complex, serves as a residence for the royal family and their distinguished guests on various occasions. Renowned for its unique northern Thai-style architecture, the palace is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Chiang Mai.
Within the palace grounds, there are numerous well-maintained floral gardens displaying plenty of beautiful flowers such as roses and Thai orchids, as well as an exquisite water reservoir. Don’t forget to check the opening dates, as it might be closed during the royal visit. Additionally, please dress respectfully while on the premises to honor the dignity of this royal site.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am–4:30 pm
14. Harvest Oranges at JINJU The Orange Farm
There’s nothing quite as refreshing as sipping on a glass of fresh orange juice made from oranges you’ve picked straight from the tree—especially when you’re the one harvesting them. At JINJU The Orange Farm, this delightful experience becomes a reality. With a basket, a pair of boots, and a bandana, you’re ready to go pick some fresh oranges from the orchard and take some lovely photos with a scenic mountain and flowers as background.
The farm also features a charming café, an Instagram-worthy spot where visitors can enjoy a variety of fresh drinks. With no time restrictions, you are free to wander around as much as you wish, find a shady spot, sit down, and enjoy the cool wind of the highland.
Opening Hours: 8:00 am–5:30 pm
15. Chill and Watch Sunset at Ang Kaew Reservoir
Located in the Chiang Mai University, the serenity of Ang Kaew Reservoir attracts people from all over the place, whether it be college students, exercise lovers, or visitors from outside. The path around the reservoir is clean and well-maintained, lined up with big trees that give shade to those who come to relax.
In the evening when the weather is cooler, you will find more people who get here to do their own activities; picnicking, jogging, taking a stroll, chilling, and watching the beautiful sunset that reflects on the undisturbed surface of the water amidst the verdant surroundings.
Opening Hours: 5:00 am–10:00 pm
Everything You Need to Know to Plan the Perfect Chiang Mai Visit
1. How far is Chiang Mai from Bangkok?
The distance from Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, to Chiang Mai is 585 km—which takes only 1.20 hours by plane. But if you drive there, it will be 687 km, which takes you around 9-10 hours by car.
2. What is the best way to travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
There are many travel options for you to choose from, including a train, a bus, a car, and an airplane. Each option offers different prices and durations.
- Flying with Bangkok Airways is the fastest and most convenient choice, taking only 1 hour and 20 minutes. Plus, Click here for exclusive deals to Chiang Mai
- Traveling by buses offer a more affordable alternative, with a travel time of approximately 9 hours.
- Traveling by train, the most budget-friendly option, takes up to 12 hours to reach Chiang Mai.
3. Is 4 days in Chiang Mai enough?
Spending four days in Chiang Mai does sound perfect for a first-timer, offering a perfect balance between exploring the city’s cultural highlights and experiencing its natural beauty. Spend a day or two in the city to immerse yourself in the local environment while spending the other two in the heart of a mountain, or even on top of the mountain, to soak in nature and escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Explore More Travel Destinations in Chiang Mai
- Top Tourist Places In Chiang Mai For Adventure Seekers
- Chiang Mai Travel Itinerary: Don’t miss out on these local Chiang Mai food
- Best Night Markets in Chiang Mai to visit absolutely
Discover the varieties of Chiang Mai with Bangkok Airways.
Here are 15 of the best things to do in Chiang Mai for an unforgettable adventure. Whether it’s nature, city life, culture, history, or simply the vibrant atmosphere, get ready to pack your bags and let Bangkok Airways accompany you to Chiang Mai with effortless convenience and exceptional service.
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