Attractions in Chiang Mai Thailand
Chiang Mai is blessed with natural, cultural and religious attractions. The lush green mountains range brings about bewildering attractions such as forests, waterfalls, caves, rivers and gorges, for example Doi Inthanon, Ang Ka Lunag Nature Trail, Borichinda Cave, Ping River, Ob Luang Gorge and many more. As the centre of northern culture, temples were built to throughout the city. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep which is an emblem of the province is highly revered by the residents, Thai people from every region as well as Buddhist from other countries. Other temples such as Wat Suan Dok, Wat Chiang Man and Wat Ku Tao, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat U Mong, Wat Chet Yot also carry precious history, delicate architecture and art. Other attractions include historical places located in the centre and along the river, museum showcases the history and ancient Lanna works of art, ancient Buddha images, war weaponry, zoo, night safari and many more.
Attractions in Chiang Mai Town
The old city is the most interesting and historic part of Chiang Mai and where many important temples are located. Back in the 13th century, Old Chiang Mai City was the capital of the powerful Lanna Thai kingdom which ruled the entire region, plus parts of Laos, until the Burmese intervened in the mid 16th century. Remnants of the walls still remain along with city gates and the old moat which was restored in 1800.
The Arts and Cultural Centre Chiang Mai
At roughly the center of the walled city, in the district where the former rulers of Chiang Mai built their palaces, stands the monument to the ‘Three Kings’ – King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Mai; his contemporary and reportedly good friend King Ramkamhaeng of Sukothai; and King Ngam Muang of Payao.
Wat Phra Singh Worawihan
This temple contains supreme examples of Lanna art. A chedi was first built by King Pha Yu (r.1337-55) to house the bones of his father King Kam Fu (r.1328- 37). The original name of the temple was Wat Li Chiang Phra but this was changed to Wat Phra Singh when the Phra Sihing Buddha image was first housed there in 1367.
Wat Chiang Man
Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, older even than the city. It was the first temple to be built in Chiang Mai. It was constructed during the reign of King Mengrai, who lived in the temple while overseeing the construction of Chiang Mai, the capital of the Lanna kingdom.
Wat Jed Yod
The temple is located on the highway which rings Chiang Mai, not far from where it intersects Huay Kaew road. It is also very near (within walking distance) of the Chiang Mai National Museum.
Wat Jed Yod is probably one of the least visited major temples. Jed Yod translates to “seven peaks” and refers to the seven chedis which top a structure in the temple.
Chiang Mai National Museum
Chiang Mai National Museum is an ethnology museum, which displays many objects about northern Thai history, for examples, statues, fabrics, weapons, models, pictures, texts etc. You will learn most eveything about people in northern Thai history, from their normal life, geology, to types of arts and cultures.
Art in Paradise
Chiang Mai Art in Paradise is really a fun place to visit, especially if you like photography. Kids will surely enjoy it but it’s just as enjoyable for adults as well. Bring your camera. Take your time. Let yourself get lost in the artistry. It is an absolute blast to play with the whimsical design of this experience and it will leave you amazed and smiling.
The Hidden Village Chiang Mai
The Hidden Village can be called as a them park, in fact. It is a peaceful but living tourist attraction. The area was decorated as a fantasy world of dinosours. As soon as you arrive at the place, you should see a series of dinosour statues around you, all of which you can take photos with.
Attractions in The North of Chiang Mai : Mae Rim District
Huay Tung Tao Reservoir
Escape from Chiang Mai City – Lazing and Relaxing at Huay Tung Tao Lake. The Lake is a little gem just outside the city that is perfect for chilling out. if you’re looking to escape the busy city. Everyone needs a breath of fresh air every once in a while and whether you just want to relax or engage in activities like swimming, cycling or running.
Snake Farm
Mae Sa Snake Farm, Chiang Mai is situated on the Mae Rim to Samoeng Road. This farm is the largest snake farm in the region. It attracts the maximum number of crowd as compared to all other Chiang Mai Parks & Gardens. Mae Sa Snake Farm, Chiang Mai has a large collection of snakes. Snake handlers show the general public all kinds of snakes in the farm. Some snakes are nonpoisonous but most snakes here are poisonous. The main highlight of the park is the poisonous Cobra.
Monkey School
We invite you to join with wonderful animal at the Chiang Mai Monkey Centre in the beautiful Mae Rim Valley just 20 minutes drive from Thailand’s ancient capital, Chiang Mai.
To begin your visit you can stroll around and meet some of Thailand’s more exotic residents including a large number of highly intelligent macaques. If you wish, you can ask one of our friendly staff to let you hold or feed them for moments that make great photos.
Siam Insect Zoo
Enjoy seeing and learning with your own eyes, alive beetles. Relaxing walk through our butterfly house, learning garden to discover more on the living world of insect. Siam Insect Zoo has been selected by The National Discovery Museum Institute (NDMI) as an outstanding “Discovery Museum Knowledge Model North of Thailand”
Eco-Agricultural Hill Tribes Village
“Chiang Mai Hill tribe village”, Learn the lifestyle of hill tribe people such as Lahu, Padong and the Long Neck Karen. You will be amazed with their native talents including daily farm work such as making scarecrows, ridding weeds in the paddy fields, and demonstrating rice pouring from the watermill.
Maesa Elephant Camp
In the lush tropical jungle of Chiang Mai ‘s Maesa Valley , a big family of elephants lives side by side with their mahout caretakers. “Maesa Elephant Camp” is home to one of the largest assembly of elephants in the north of Thailand.
Our philosophy is to create a natural and healthy environment for the elephants while working to conserve and breed them,due to the dwindling number of Asian elephants left in the wild.
Mae Rim Elephant Camp
The Mae Rim Elephant Home, located in the picturesque hills of Northern Thailand, is a sanctuary for elephants in need of rest and relaxation. Unlike other elephant camps, our elephants are not worked or forced to perform for tourists. Instead, they are free to roam and live in a nearly natural environment.
Visiting the Mae Rim Elephant Home is an opportunity to learn more about these amazing animals and to make a real difference in their lives. We invite you to come and experience the joy and wonder of interacting with our elephants, and to join us in our mission to provide a safe and loving home for these gentle giants.
Botanic garden
Enjoy a Walk Through the Treetops at Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, Chiang Mai
20m up in the air, amongst the mountain treetops of the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden, is Thailand’s longest canopy walkway. Officially opening to the public on 1st December 2015, we were fortunate to have the chance to experience the walkway beforehand and we loved what we saw.
Mon Jam
If you are looking for a day trip from Chiang Mai I would highly recommend Mon Jam for its beautiful scenery. There literally is no other word to describe this place other than breathtaking.
Mon Jam is beautifully landscaped with lots of pretty flowers in the winter months warming to spring. There is a couple of eateries with seats facing the mountain views. You can take a walk around the beautiful mountains with many flower gardens. The atmosphere is very refreshing.
Doi Ang Khang
Going up to a mountain may sounds exhausting to you, but not always, especially, at a mountain area named ‘Doi Ang Khang’. At Doi Ang Khang, you will not get tired, exhausted, or something like that. Instead, you will enjoy the atmosphere there so much that you almost forget about everything, as the area is so beautiful and stunning.
Attractions in The North of Chiang Mai : Mae Tang District
Mae Tang Elephant Park
Mae Tang Elephant Park is situated in the beautiful maetaman valley some 50 kilometers north of Chiangmai and is home to over 40 elephants. Withness the splendor of thesemajestic animals as the herd wallows and frolices in the brown waters of the maetang river and marvel at their size as they emerge dripping and refreshed, just inches away from you. Touch them, smell them, fell their power and talk to them because they are friendly. Select the one you like most and give him a banana, he will be a friend for life because elephant never forget.
Kanta Elephant Sanctuary
Kanta Elephant Sanctuary is a protected area for elephants where they can live in their natural habitat and roam freely. This sanctuary provides a safe haven for elephants and offers visitors the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in a responsible and sustainable manner. Visitors can witness the majesty and grace of the elephants as they interact with one another and go about their daily activities. The sanctuary is managed by dedicated staff who are committed to preserving the well-being of the elephants and their habitat.
Chiang Dao Cave
Chiang Dao Cave Chiang Mai is one of the top-rated tourist attractions in Thailand. This cave extends around twelve kilometers in Doi Chiang Dao Mountain.
Only experienced trekkers should venture in Chiang Dao Cave, Chiang Mai beyond the five areas which are Tham Maa, Tham Kaew, Tham Phra Nawn, Tham Seua Dao, and Tham Naam. Every year this cave attracts many tourists to the city leading to the growth of tourism in Thailand.
Bua Tong Waterfall
Bua Tong Waterfall and Jedsee Fountain Forest Park is not popular among tourists as it pretty, because it far from Chiang Mai city.
Bua Tong Waterfall is a spectacular place to relax and enjoy the day. The landscape of Buatong Waterfall and Jedsee Fountain Forest Park is mountain alternating with valley and brook.
Attractions in The East of Chiang Mai : Sankampaeng and Mae On District
Sankampaeng and Borsang
Sankampaeng, the village is located 13 kilometers the east of Chiang Mai town in a district that is famous for silk and a cotton weaving. The silk and cotton souvenirs produced in this village are high quality. Factories and souvenir shops selling woodcarving, silverware, earth ware, lacquer ware and cotton fabrics are located along the way from Chiang Mai to San Kamphaeng.
Muang On Cave
A fascinating place is certainly the Muang On cave near the Hotsprings of Sankampaeng. A long staircase leads up to the mouth of the cave. A steep climb down again gives access to a number of caverns filled with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. There is a strange limestone formation that was once mistaken for the skeleton of a dinosaur. In one cavern is a large Buddha image.
Attractions in The West of Chiang Mai : Suthep Area
Wat Suan Dok
Wat Suan Dok is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai. This temple has been established for 700 years.
Wat Suan Dok (Flower Garden Temple) is in the west of old Chiang Mai Thailand . It’s just off the airport road. There are dozens and dozens of small white chedi, about three meters (10 feet) to six meters (20 feet) high. These house the ashes of many of the Chiang Mai Royal Family but the largest one, just to the south, is a Buddhist relic chedi.
Wat Umong
Wat Umong an excellent place for meditation. The meditation center hosts meditation classes and Dhamma talks.
Wat Umong is unique in many respects. For one, it’s built in the foothills of Suthep mountain and is still heavily forested. But the most unique feature of the temple are the tunnels which give the wat its name (umong is the Thai word for “tunnel”).
Chiang Mai Zoo
Chiang Mai Zoo was established by the The Zoological Park Organization, Thailand in 1974. Situated on 531 Rai of verdant forest land at the foothill of Doi Suthep mountain, the zoo is surrounded by hilly terrain which is home to thousands of species of wild plants and flowers adorning the natural landscape of valleys, streams and waterfalls.
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep one of the most important temple in Chiang Mai.
The temple is often referred to as “Doi Suthep” although this is actually the name of the mountain it is located on. The temple is located 15 km from the city of Chiang Mai and is a sacred site to many Thai people. You climb your way through winding mountain roads. Cool breezes flow around you. Green forest surrounds. As you rise towards the clouds, you feel a delicious chill in the air.
Orchid Jade Factory
“If you are interested in learning about jade or purchasing jewelry made from jade, Orchid Jade is certainly a place to visit.
Orchid Jade does not tolerate any type of treatment on jade. All our jadeite jewelry are Type A and thus we can guarantee that they are of the highest quality. In addition, our jewelry are exclusively made, which means most, if not all, are handcrafted.
Doi Pui Hmong Village
Doi Pui Mhong Village : The village is about 4 kilometers away from Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep and despite being a key tourist attraction, and therefore probably not as authentic as it could be, it still offers an insight into how Thailand’s tribes live. The villagers wear traditional Hmong clothes, sell traditional Hmong handicrafts, and live in traditional Hmong-style homes.
Hmong Khun Chang Kian Village
Mhong Khun Chang Kian Village : The very first thing that you need to see at Khun Chang Kian village is ‘Thai Sakura’, or ‘Nang Phaya Sua Krong’. This kind of tree has pink flowers just like the Japanese Sakura, so beautiful and charming! As soon as you arrive at Khun Chang Kian village, you will see a bunch of Nang Phaya Sua Krong trees around. Pink color is all over you like cotton candies. Surely, the atmosphere like this is very romantic. Good to go with your love one.
Attractions in The South of Chiang Mai : Hangdong, Doi Lo and Jomthong District
Wiang Kum Kam
Wiangkumkam (wiang goom garm) was a settlement long before it became King Mangrai’s capital around 1287-90. Frequent flooding caused Mangrai to move, but the place remained important throughout the Lanna period. The site was later buried under mud when the river changed course during the Burmese period. The area was restored as a historical park during the 1980’s. Surrounded by paddy and village houses, the extensive site has a pleasant rural feel, yet it is very close to Chiang Mai.
Royal Flora Ratchaphruek
Royal Flora Ratchaphruek is a horticultural exhibition in the city of Chiang Mai where visitors can admire thousands of species of trees and flowers on 80 hectares of landscaped gardens. The park is named after Thailand’s national flower Ratchaphruek with its beautiful yellow blossom. One of the park’s highlights is the orchid pavilion with its countless species of orchids in many colors. The Royal Flora Ratchaphruek is the national flower of Thailand.
Chiang Mai Night Safari
Chiang Mai Night Safari is essentially a zoo set out like a theme park. For animal viewing it is separated into three main areas. Chiang Mai Night Safari is spread over 819 rai. Traverse the exciting Thailand’s first night safari in the 50-seat open air tram to meet elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, Asiatic black bears, tigers, hyenas, crocodiles, and many more.
Phrathat Doi Kham Temple
The Phrathat Doi Kham Temple is an attractive not much visited temple known for its 17 meters high Buddha image. It is a beautiful temple situated on a lush mountainside near Chiang Mai Town.
Phrathat Doi Kham Temple getting more famous because of some person got what they asked for. If you need something but difficult to get it you can come to Phrathat Doi Kham and ask for it. If your ask come true you need to go back offer jasmine flower to the Temple this is about believe.
Grand Canyon Chiang Mai
As soon as you arrive at Grand Canyon Chiang Mai, you will feel like it is a water park, but it will look more natural. You will completely forget your old swimming pool. You will not possibily imagine of yourself getting soaked in a beautiful water source in the middle of dirt walls.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand. It is 2,565 metres above sea level. It has many waterfalls and in the forest, at the peak ,are two large stupas built to honour the King and Queen. If you don’t have much time to spare but would like to explore one of the most spectacular national parks in Thailand, we highly recommend here.
Khun Wang Royal Project
Khun Wang Royal Agricultural Research Centre is a research station on the slopes of Doi Inthanon has been getting a good deal of attention in the last few years since word got out about it being one of the best places in Chiang Mai to appreciate the beauty of phya sua khrong (wild Himalayan cherry) trees in full bloom in early January.
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
If you’re looking for an authentic and heartwarming experience with Thailand’s gentle giants, the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai is the perfect destination. This ethical elephant sanctuary offers a range of programs that provide visitors with an unforgettable and meaningful encounter with these magnificent creatures while supporting responsible elephant tourism.
Other Attractions in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Khantoke Dinner
Diner on authentic Northern Thai food, sample local delicacies and enjoy the atmosphere of out Lanna Khontoke. You’ll be entertained by a cultural show celebrating the dancing style from every part of the country. including a Candle dance, Faun Tee, Sword dance, Hilltribe dance, Drum dance, Seung kapo, Traditional ramwong, and khon (elegant, stylized Thai drama).
Chiang Mai Orchid Farm
Orchid Farm, Chiang Mai, is situated on the way to Mae sa elephant camp. There are many Chiang Mai Parks & Gardens who aim to conserve the flora and fauna of the region.The main objective of Orchid farm, is to conserve the orchids which are being depleted. Orchids have more than 25,000 species out of which 473 are present in Chiang Mai. Most of the varieties of orchids that survive the climatic conditions of the city are available for viewing at Orchid Farm, Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai Thai Kick Boxing
Muay Thai is Thailand’s National Sport and with Chiang Mai being the largest city in the North it has a thriving Muay Thai scene. Here is a list of some of the Chiang Mai Muay Thai stadiums where you can watch some of the best fighters in the North fight to work their way through the ranks! Muay Thai is referred to as “The Art of Eight Limbs”