Attractions and Activities in Chiang Mai
There are many wonderful cultural and natural attractions in Chiang Mai, a well as plenty of fun activities and adventures. Here are some of the “must sees” and “must dos”.
Chiang Mai Highlights:
The Old City & Wats (Temples)
Visit the 700 year old city. See city walls, visit one or a few of Chiang Mai’s famous wats.
Doi Suthep-Doi Pui National Park
Doi Suthep is considered the “Guardian” mountain of the city.
Wat Phratat Doi Suthep
It is said that you haven’t been to Chiang Mai unless you’ve paid pilgrimage to Wat Phratat Doi Suthep. This Wat is one of Thailand’s most revered temples. This temple is situated 1053m (3500 feet) above sea level and we are able to see a magnificent view of the city of Chiang Mai. You need to wear “polite” clothing to enter the Wat.
Waterfalls
There are several beautiful waterfalls in the National Park. They are wonderful places to get back to nature, have a picnic and a swim.
Phuping Palace (Closed when the royal family is in residence, usually Jan or Feb)
The modern Thai style Palace was built in the 1960s and serves as a retreat for the royal family during winter. Visitors cannot actually enter the palace, but can visit the beautiful gardens. “Polite” dress is required.
Ban Doi Pui – Hmong Hill Tribe Village
See the Hmongs in their traditional homes and costumes. It’s a good place to buy Hmong handicrafts.
There is a beautiful garden with lovely views, and some poppies grown here for educational purposes.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Approximately 1.5 hours drive southwest of Chiang Mai; Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak (2595m) has many nature trails, amazing waterfalls, Hill tribe Villages and stunning views of mountains and clouds below. It is famous for bird watching – there are over 380 species found in the mountain. There are also two beautiful chedis (pagodas) built in honour of the King and Queen of Thailand.
Animals, animals, animals:
Elephants
Meet the adorable, cheeky elephants – one of the symbols of Thailand. There are many options in Chiang Mai – watching the talented elephants put on a show, ride elephants, learn how to be an elephant trainer for the day, or just hanging out with them. These are experiences that should not be missed.
Snake Farm
Featuring snake exhibits – poisonous and non-poisonous, as well as the cobra. There are snake shows daily.
Tiger Kingdom
Chiang Mai’s newest attraction - you can get up close and personal with tigers! Have a meal overlooking tiger enclosures or get in there and play with tiger cubs.
Monkey School
Watch the performances put on by our distant cousins, the clever little monkeys!
Night Safari
Get close and personal with animals from all around the world. The Night Safari features three trails – one walking and two by tram. Predators are kept in safety enclosures while other animals are free to roam and may even approach trams. A great experience!
Chiang Mai Zoo
Meet the Giant Pandas, Chuang Chuang and Lin Hui all the way from China. There are over 6000 animals at this very big and beautiful zoo.
Amazing Adventures
There are some fantastic adventures to be had in Chiang Mai. Another chance to create those unforgettable memories! Fun is not the only important factor here, however, we are concerned about you and you families’ safety. Our partners are carefully selected so that you’ll have the safest and best possible experiences.
Fishing
Fish for the giant Mekong River Catfish (PlaBeuk) - Thailand’s largest and the world’s second largest freshwater species. It will give even the experienced angler a challenge!
Beginners and children welcome! Fishing lessons also available.
Flight of the Gibbon
Fly through the 1500-year-old rain forest canopy using a series of flying foxes. Guaranteed to get you adrenaline rushing! Children need to be a minimum of 120cm/4ft tall. Young children can be taken in tandem. After the “flight”, there is a short trek to a waterfall. Allow 5-6 hours for this adventure.
Trekking/Elephant Trekking/Bamboo Rafting
Mountain Biking/ATV tours
White Water Rafting
Shop till you drop in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is Thailand’s handicraft capital – a great place to pick up that special souvenir, gorgeous handmade umbrellas, Hill-tribe pieces, and hand-woven silk, silver, or even teak furniture! A lot can be found on the “San Kamphang Handicraft Highway”, but for exquisite woodcarvings, the best place is Baan Tawai in Hang Dong.
There are two big shopping centres in Chiang Mai where you can pick up your necessities, clothes, and shoes at great prices.
Some fun shopping experiences can be found in markets like Night Bazaar and Sunday Walking Street.
Other Activities:
Pampering – Massages and Spa treatments
We all deserve a little pampering after a hard day of having fun. Mum (and dad) would also enjoy the time off getting a spa treatment or a massage at great prices!
Thai Cooking Classes
What’s better to take back home from your trip than the skills to cook Thai food and show off to your friends and relatives? A class usually starts with a visit to the local market and introduction to Thai ingredients. After that, the cooking starts. Don’t eat too much for breakfast!
Art & Craft Classes
Parasol and Fan Painting, “Sa” paper making, Batik Dyeing, Ceramic Painting. Half day or full day classes available.
Golf in Thailand
For the golf enthusiasts, there are plenty of fantastic championship golf courses and most are open to the public. If you are interested, we can arrange a game or two for you.