The city, which was once the seat of the Lanna Kingdom, is well-known for its exquisite handicrafts, wood carvings, temples, festivals, national parks, and exciting locations. Chiang Mai has something for every kind of traveler, whether it is a dynamic cultural experience or a tranquil getaway.
The top activities in Chiang Mai for families, couples, and nighttime exploration are all included in this guide. Please read the following
Things to do in Chiang Mai with Kids and Family
Enjoy the Grand Canyon Water Park
A great place to take the family and kids for an enjoyable day out in Chiang Mai is Grand Canyon Water Park. Wakeboarding, ziplining, and kayaking are among the exciting sports available at this outdoor water park. There is a special pool just for youngsters, where they can play and swim.
Giant water slides and floating, inflatable tubes are enjoyable activities for adults. In addition, you may rent swimsuits, a waterproof camera, and a locker to secure your personal stuff.
To satisfy your food pains, there’s a mouthwatering Thai and international restaurant on site named The Grill Restaurant. Alternatively, indulge in coffee and pastries at Caramelo Cafe. It is one of those things you just can’t skip. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. is when the waterpark is open.
Explore the Chiang Mai Zoo
The 200 acres that make up the Chiang Mai Zoo are a fascinating destination for families with young children. Many different species may be seen at this zoo, including flamingos, koalas, hippos, ostriches, giraffes, penguins, seals, tigers, and lions.
Animals may be shown living in their native environments. The freshwater aquarium, Nakornping Bird Park, and the Snow Doom are some of the other fascinating attractions in this area.
Numerous hikers may be seen making their way around the zoo, and families can be seen having picnics in the designated locations.
Pamper elephants at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
A distinctive and morally sound encounter with the gentle giants may be had at Chiang Mai’s Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. You and your children will get the chance to wash and feed the cute elephants.
The sanctuary is proud of its dedication to the well-being of elephants and its use of moral conservation methods. A guide will walk you through the ins and outs of the sanctuary once you arrive.
Following that, you will get the chance to feed and bathe the elephants. Bringing over a spare set of clothing and a towel is advised, as bathing the elephants gets one quite wet.
Click Photos at Art in Paradise
The 3D art museum Art in Paradise has exhibits that convey optical illusions. Six distinct zones can be found inside the museum: the dinosaur area, the animal area, the classic art area, the underwater region, the ancient Egyptian art, and the weird art area.
With your family, you may take entertaining and fascinating 3D pictures here of you crossing a river, riding the magic carpet, or emerging from an underground swimming pool.
The museum has no limits or limitations, so you may explore it at your leisure, take pictures, and have an exhilarating experience. It would take two hours in total to thoroughly examine the area.
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Interact with Tigers at Tiger Kingdom
Visit Tiger Kingdom to get up close and personal with the magnificent jungle animals. There are cubs, tiny tigers, and large cats in this park. When you get there, a kind trainer will show you how to get along with the tiger of your choosing.
You get to choose which tiger you want to hang out with and how much to pay for it. You may also have a great meal at the on-site restaurant.
It would be necessary for kids to go to the cage with their parents. Make sure not to pass up Chiang Mai’s once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Tiger Kingdom’s hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Visit the Namtok Bua Tong Waterfall (Sticky Waterfall)
A must-do activity in Chiang Mai is to see Namtok Bua Tong Waterfall, a.k.a. the Sticky Waterfall. In addition to being breathtaking to see, you may ascend the limestone rocks straight up, like going up a stairway.
This is not a place where waterfalls often cause the rocks to become slippery. A unique mineral carried by the tumbling cascade causes the rocks to be hard rather than slick. All you have to do to effortlessly create your hold on the rocks’ surface is wear firm shoes.
Seize the chance to capture breathtaking images of your family on Instagram and appreciate the waterfall’s magnificence. The Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park, where the waterfall is situated, is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Spend time at Nong Buak Haad Public Park
Situated in the heart of Chaing Mai, Nong Buak Haad Public Park is a well-known and unique public park. This park offers a pleasant and serene atmosphere in which to spend time. There is a lovely pond, a fountain, and many Nanapan trees lining the area.
This park is frequented by many residents and visitors who come to unwind and participate in the numerous festivities held in Chiang Mai, such as the Flower Festival. Additionally, you’ll see individuals of all ages lifting weights, running, and participating in other sports. Every day from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m., the park is open.
Things to do in Chiang Mai at Night
Shop at the Chiang Mai Night Markets
In Chiang Mai, there are several night markets full of intriguing native and foreign goods. There are hundreds of stores in these night marketplaces, all beckoning consumers to purchase their goods. Going to a night market allows you to experience the city like a native would. Since Chaing Mai is renowned for its handicrafts and arts, don’t forget to get some lacquerware, pottery, wooden carvings, and showpieces. Enjoy some delectable Thai street cuisine to round off your shopping expedition, and while you’re at it, take in some buskers’ live performances.
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Watch a Cabaret Show in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai offers exciting evening diversions, such as the thrilling cabaret shows. One famous spectacle is the Siam Dragon Cabaret Show, guaranteed to captivate with its perfect blend of light and sound performance. This brilliant display lasts for about an hour. The show steals the stage featuring gifted Thai transgender artists.
These professionals demonstrate their talent in singing, dancing, and acting. Their collective performance leaves a strong impression on the audience. Dressed in strikingly dazzling costumes and flamboyant headgear, they’re a crowd magnet. Post-show, guests can even snag a memorable photo op with them.
Chiang Mai Night Safari
A night safari in Chiang Mai is a popular adventure. It lets you meet animals up close. People from all corners of the world join this trip. It whisks you off into the jungle after dark in a big 50-seat tram. There’s time to feed giraffes, hippos, rhinos, bison, and more. So animal and nature lovers really shouldn’t miss it.
There’s even a music fountain for guests. After safari, you can relax at the Chiang Mai Night Safari Resort. Here, expert chefs dish up tasty meals. Think omelet rice, sticky rice, roast pork, sausages, buns, and drinks. It’s great!
Explore the Walking Street of Chiang Mai
Don’t miss out on Chiang Mai’s pedestrian streets during your city tour at night! They’re the top spots for shopping and sightseeing. Saturday’s Wua Lai Street and Sunday’s Tha Pae Street on Ratchadamnoen Road are the city’s popular pedestrian spots. After noon, vehicles are blocked from certain areas.
This makes the markets safe and easy for us walkers. Once you enter these streets, you’ll notice shops on either side, filled with Thai products, food, and special keepsakes. Plus, there are cultural shows to enjoy too.
Dine and Drink at the Rooftop Bars
Rooftop bars in Chaing Mai may not be as flashy and fashionable as those in Bangkok, but they nonetheless have enticing atmospheres and vistas. Here, you may indulge in delectable cuisine and cool beverages. You can enjoy beautiful views of Doi Inthanon Mountain from the majority of rooftop bars.
The Roof Yard, Rise Rooftop Bar, THC Rooftop Bar, and other rooftop bars are some of the greatest in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai’s rooftop bars provide a range of interiors and atmospheres, from sophisticated establishments to laid-back, tourist-friendly locations. Rooftop bars in Chaing Mai may not be as flashy and fashionable as those in Bangkok, but they nonetheless have enticing environments and views.
Here, you may indulge in delectable cuisine and cool beverages. You can enjoy beautiful views of Doi Inthanon Mountain from the majority of rooftop bars. The Roof Yard, Rise Rooftop Bar, THC Rooftop Bar, and other rooftop bars are some of the greatest in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai’s rooftop bars provide a range of interiors and atmospheres, from sophisticated establishments to laid-back, tourist-friendly locations.
Go Clubbing in Chiang Mai
The majority of the clubs are centered in the old city, so if you’re a party animal and want to check out Chiang Mai’s club scene, go there first. While Chiang Mai clubs aren’t quite as crazy as those in Bangkok, you can still expect great music, delicious drinks, and most importantly, a great atmosphere. Blacknight Cnx, Zoe in the Yellow, and Infinity Club are some of Chiang Mai’s greatest pubs and clubs. Travelers from all over the globe may be seen drinking, dancing, and mingling here.
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Things to do in Chiang Mai for Couples
Visit the Chiang Mai Flower Festival
Don’t miss the magnificent annual Chiang Mai Flower Festival if you have a chance to be in Chiang Mai between late January and early February. Usually held on the first weekend in February, this three-day celebration heralds the end of winter and the beginning of spring as fresh flowers begin to blossom.
The festival offers a variety of events for guests to enjoy from early morning to the afternoon and sometimes even into the evening. The event is well renowned for its exquisite floral displays, which provide the ideal setting for picture-perfect Instagram shots.
A procession that starts at 4 AM and features marching bands, dancers, singers, and exquisite carriages decked up in flowers to depict the splendor of Lanna Kingdom is another event you may attend.
Watch a Sunset from Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park is just 58 meters from the center of Chiang Mai. The breathtaking vegetation and animals of this well-protected park may be seen. This park also has a number of views where you can take romantic pictures with your significant other. From a variety of vantage points, you may see a breathtaking sunrise or sunset.
Furthermore, if you’re an adventurous pair, take a hike across this amazing park’s steep pathways. All year long, Doi Inthanon National Park is open from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Pray at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple
Thai people place great importance on the famous and iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which is located in a stunning environment. It’s one of Chiang Mai’s most popular monuments and a must-see location. The striking sculptures of seven-headed serpents that line the steps leading up to the temple will enthrall you as soon as you arrive.
You will be impressed with the magnificent golden pagoda, constructed in the styles of Chiang Saen and Chaen, as you reach the peak. It provides an amazing background for your photos.
From the city center of Chiang Mai, you may take a songthaew or a red truck cab. For a fair cost, these shared taxis will transport you to the temple; they leave from Chang Puak Bus Station on a regular basis. Thai people place great importance on the famous and iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which is located in a stunning environment. It’s one of Chiang Mai’s most popular monuments and a must-see location.
The striking sculptures of seven-headed serpents that line the steps leading up to the temple will enthrall you as soon as you arrive. You will be enthralled with the magnificent golden pagoda, constructed in the styles of Chiang Saen and Chaen, as you reach the peak.
It provides an amazing background for your photos. From the city center of Chiang Mai, you may take a songthaew or a red truck cab. For a fair cost, these shared taxis will transport you to the temple; they leave from Chang Puak Bus Station on a regular basis.
Ride the Rapids with Whitewater Rafting
If you and your partner love engaging in adventurous activities, Chaing Mai is a wonderful destination. And what better way to spend a day together than going whitewater rafting? Take a rafting trip down the Mae Taeng River in Chiang Mai and experience its most intense rapids.
Seize the chance to discover the scenery and natural features of this hilly region of Thailand. Many rafting trips include groups of ten to twelve persons paddling around ten kilometers against the roaring river.
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Do Trekking in Chiang Mai
It is an incredible experience to go trekking in the beautiful northern Thai region. Numerous walking paths in this area provide expansive vistas of northern Thailand; however, the Baan Pha Dang to Huay Kukap route is among the most exciting. Take in the culture of the nearby community, which is tucked away in the mountains.
Engage in conversation with the amiable residents to better understand their way of life. Trekkers of all skill levels may participate in this adventure. You’ll experience breathtaking scenery and chances to commune with nature throughout the route, which will greatly enhance your feeling of inner tranquility and renewal.
Relax at the Mae Ping River Dinner Cruise
Mae Ping River Cruise offers a 90-minute evening cruise where you may unwind while dining on Thai cuisine. Savor a romantic supper with your significant other on this 48-seater jetty while taking a riverboat ride down the Ping River. The knowledgeable cooks provide mouthwatering Thai specialties, and the amiable staff treats visitors with warmth and compassion. For couples visiting Chiang Mai, taking part in the Mae Ping River Dinner Cruise is an absolute must.
Eat Northern Thai Food
While the food is great across Thailand, it would be a crime to visit Chiang Mai without sampling the local specialties. Sai Oua (spicy grilled sausage), Gaeng Hinlay (stewed pig belly), and Khao Soi (soft and crispy noodles in a curry broth) are a few of the unique northern Thai foods.
You may sample them in upscale restaurants, night markets, or on the streets. You’ll see how the region’s topography and climate impact the food’s preparation and ingredients. The menu features a lot of hearty, warming meat dishes and herb-infused soups because of the chilly weather.
As we get to the end of the list of things to do in Chiang Mai, we can say that this city is among the finest in Thailand for vacation. The city is incredibly harmonious in the present while retaining memories of a magnificent past. If you’ve been considering traveling to Thailand, look into Thailand tour packages and make sure your itinerary includes a stop in Chaing Mai.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chiang Mai best known for?
One of the most visited places in Thailand is Chiang Mai. It is well-known for its medieval temples, gorgeous mountains, chilly climate, and breathtaking vistas and is situated in the country’s north.
Is 3 days in Chiang Mai enough?
Thus, you may discover the city’s historic temples, stroll through its verdant national parks, engage in real cultural activities, and make lifelong memories in only three days. Chiang Mai has plenty to offer everyone, regardless of your interests—art, nature, or cuisine.
Is Chiang Mai worth visiting?
When traveling to Thailand, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are both must-see locations. Chiang Mai is an excellent destination for cultural immersion and provides a genuine Thai experience.
Does Chiang Mai have nightlife?
The nightlife in Chiang Mai also has a lot of live performers, however not all of them are boisterous and noisy. The majority of Chiang Mai’s well-known pubs have live bands that play anything from rock songs to jazz and vintage blues.
What is the best time of year to visit Chiang Mai?
The mild, dry season, which spans from November to February, is usually the ideal time to visit Chiang Mai. The city has several festivals and activities at this time of year when the weather is at its nicest.
Can I take a cooking class in Chiang Mai?
Of course! Thai food is well-known in Chiang Mai, and there are many culinary schools and workshops where you may learn from local specialists how to prepare traditional Thai meals.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai has fantastic chances for outdoor pursuits including trekking to waterfalls like Huay Kaew Waterfall and Bua Tong Waterfall and visiting Doi Inthanon National Park.
What are some of the best temples to visit in Chiang Mai?
In Chiang Mai, a few of the most important temples to visit include Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang. Important Buddhist treasures and beautiful architecture may be found in these temples.
