Chiang Mai, Thailand is located in the northern region of Thailand and is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant atmosphere. Tourists are drawn to Chiang Mai for its historic temples, such as the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which offers panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location. The city is also surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, making it an ideal place for outdoor activities such as trekking, rafting, and hot air balloon rides.

Chiang Mai is also renowned for its vibrant food scene, with street food stalls, traditional restaurants, and hip cafes serving up delicious and authentic Thai cuisine. The city is famous for its night bazaar, where visitors can indulge in shopping, street food, and live entertainment. Additionally, Chiang Mai is known for its laid-back, relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities, Chiang Mai is a truly unique and special place to visit.

Top Attractions in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara

  • Ancient Ruin
  • Architectural Building
  • Religious Site
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM
  • Suggested Duration: 1-2 Hours
  • About: Constructed over six centuries ago, the magnificent temple stands as a testament to the skill and devotion of its builders. It once served as the proud home to the precious Emerald Buddha, a revered and sacred artifact of immense cultural significance. The temple remains an awe-inspiring example of traditional architecture and a testament to the rich history and heritage of the region.

Elephant Rescue Park

  • Nature & Wildlife Area
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM
  • Suggested Duration: More than 3 Hours
  • About: Elephant Rescue Park is a sanctuary for rescued elephants, nestled in the lush green valley of Chiang Mai. Our mission is to rescue elephants from abusive circumstances such as circuses and mistreatment and to provide them with a safe, loving, and secure home. Our focus is on creating a happy and nurturing environment for these magnificent animals.

Wat Phra Singh

  • Religious Site
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • About: Constructed in 1345 during the reign of King Phayu, the fifth king of the Mangrai dynasty, this temple stands as a monument to the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Night Bazaar

  • Flea & Street Market
  • Opening Hours: 12:00 AM – 11:59 PM
  • Suggested Duration: 1-2 Hours
  • About: The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, located in the heart of the city, is a must-visit destination for travellers. Stroll through countless rows of artisanal goods, ranging from handcrafted bags to glittering jewellery.

Wat Umong

  • Ancient Ruin
  • Religious Site
  • Opening Hours: 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Suggested Duration: 1-2 Hours
  • About: The 14th-century temple is a remarkable and unparalleled structure, ingeniously built into the side of Suthep mountain. Its design features a series of tunnels and caves, creating an intricate network of passageways and chambers that offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Kanta Elephant Sanctuary

  • Nature & Wildlife Area
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Suggested Duration: More than 3 Hours
  • About: Kanta Elephant Sanctuary is the epitome of elephant care. Experience a new level of interaction with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, surrounded by lush greenery. Here, the elephants are treated as family members and are not subjected to harmful practices such as training hooks, ankle chains, or riding. Our dedicated caretakers show love and respect to each and every elephant, ensuring their comfort and well-being.

Wat Pha Lat

  • Religious Site
  • Points of Interest & Landmark

Wat Phra That Doi Kham – Temple of the Golden Mountain

  • Speciality Museum
  • Historic Site
  • Religious Site
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wua Lai Road – Saturday Night Market Walking Street

  • Flea & Street Market
  • Opening Hours: Saturday – 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Wat Suan Dok

  • Cemetery
  • Religious Site
  • About: The 14th-century Temple of the Royal Gardens has been transformed into a bustling Buddhist university and a picturesque destination for photographers. Set amidst breathtaking landscapes, the temple showcases a range of historical artifacts, including the ashes of Chiang Mai’s royal family housed within its majestic chedis (spires). Visitors can also admire half of a sacred Buddhist relic brought from Sukothai in 1371, with the other half being buried at Doi Suthep. The temple also boasts a 500-year-old bronze Buddha image, one of the largest in northern Thailand, displayed in the small hall at the back of the compound.

Top Hotels & Places to Stay

Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort

  • Hotel Class: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½
  • Hotel Stye: Boutique, Quiet
  • Languages Spoken: English, Chinese, Thai
  • Chiang Mai Intl Airport: 2 Mile
  • Lampang Airport: 48 Mile
  • About: Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort is a charming escape located in the heart of Chiang Mai. The resort draws inspiration from the rich history and legendary stories of the Charoenprathet road area, where it is situated. Just a 5-minute drive from the bustling Night Bazaar and 15 minutes from Chiang Mai International Airport, this beautiful gem provides a peaceful and convenient retreat for travellers.

BED Phrasingh Adults Only

  • Hotel Class: ★ ★ ★
  • Hotel Style: Value, Quiet
  • Languages Spoken: English, Chinese, Spanish, German, Thai, Portuguese
  • Chiang Mai Intl Airport: 1 Mile
  • Lampang Airport: 49 Mile
  • About: Welcome to BED, where we offer a warm and hospitable experience in four convenient locations: BED Changkian, BED Phrasingh, BED Nimman, and BED Chiangmai Gate. Please note that for the comfort and safety of all guests, BED is only open to adults with a minimum age of 18 years old.

akyra Manor Chiang Mai

  • Hotel Class: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
  • Hotel Style: Art Deco Style, Boutique
  • Languages Spoken: English, Thai
  • Chiang Mai Intl Airport: 2 Mile
  • About: Akyra Manor Chiang Mai invites you to experience luxury like never before. Our all-suite hotel offers five-star amenities and a unique courtyard-within-a-room design, providing a private sanctuary in the heart of Chiang Mai’s bustling city centre. Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the chic boutiques, galleries, bars, and coffee shops, and then retreat to the comfort of Akyra Manor. Savour the exceptional dining experiences at Rise Rooftop Bar and Italics, our premier restaurant.

The Inside House

  • Hotel Class: ★ ★ ★ ★
  • Call: 00 66 53 904 699
  • Hotel Style: Boutique, Romantic
  • Languages Spoken: Thai, English
  • Chiang Mai Intl Airport: 1 Mile
  • Lampang Airport: 49 Mile
  • About: Welcome to our cosy abode in the heart of Chiang Mai, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and relax in a warm, intimate environment. We refer to it as a “house” because we strive to create a home-like atmosphere where our guests feel comfortable, cared for, and treated like family. We of 14 private swimming pools, so come and enjoy a rejuvenating stay with us.

BED Chiangmai Gate Adults Only

  • Hotel Class: ★ ★ ★
  • Hotel Style: Trendy, Modern
  • Languages Spoken: English, Thai, Chinese
  • Chiang Mai Intl Airport: 1 Mile
  • Lampang Airport: 49 Mile
  • About: BED is dedicated to providing outstanding hospitality, making your stay simple and stress-free at any of our four locations: BED Changkian, BED Phrasingh, BED Nimman, and BED Chiangmai Gate. Please note, BED is exclusively for adults aged 18 and over.

Top Restaurants in Chiang Mai, Thailand

B Samcook Home 16

  • Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
  • Call: +66 91 854 5391
  • Cuisines: Asian
  • Meals: Dinner, Lunch
  • Special Diets: Vegan Options, Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
  • Features: Highchairs Available, Reservations, Serves Alcohol, Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Free Wifi, Wine and Beer, Accepts Credit Cards, Live Music, Family Style
  • About: Our restaurant is a cosy, intimate setting that often fills up quickly, so it is recommended to make reservations in advance. We are a small, yet popular, establishment known for our exceptional food and warm hospitality. To ensure that you have a memorable dining experience, please call us to reserve your table.

Jacky Show Restaurant

  • Price Range: $1 – $23
  • Opening Hours: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Call: +66 94 617 0440
  • Cuisines: European, French, Healthy
  • Meals: Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Drinks
  • Special Diets: Vegetarian Friendly
  • Features: Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Parking Available, Full Bar, Accepts Credit Cards, Free Wifi, Wine and Beer, Table Service
  • About: Chef Jacky, with over 40 years of culinary expertise, offers a delightful mix of traditional dishes and his own personal touch. Savour a homemade red onion soup or indulge in a classic boeuf bourguignon, all made with the freshest ingredients and expertly crafted by Chef Jacky. During lunch, be sure to try our “Surprise” menu, only available by reservation. Come and enjoy a truly exceptional dining experience at The Jacky Show restaurant.

Uchi Japanese Gastro Bar

  • Price Range: $6 – $30
  • Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:45 PM
  • Call: +66 64 896 6196
  • Cuisines: Sushi, Japanese, Bar, Dining Bars, Pub
  • Meals: Dinner, Drinks, Lunch, Late Night
  • Features: Family Style, Wine and Beer, Accepts Credit Cards, Digital Payments
  • About: Experience the fusion of traditional Japanese flavours with contemporary flair at our restaurant in the heart of Chiang Mai. Indulge in a delectable range of modern Japanese cuisine, perfectly paired with an extensive selection of handpicked wines and creative cocktails.

The Service 1921 Restaurant & Bar

  • Price Range: $12 – $86
  • Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM & 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Call: +66 53 253 383
  • Cuisines: Grill
  • Meals: Dinner, Lunch, Drinks
  • Special Diets: Vegan Options, Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
  • Features: Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Highchairs Available, Wine and Beer, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts American Express, Accepts Visa, Private Dining, Free Wifi, Parking Available, Table Service, Accepts Credit Cards
  • About: Savor the rich flavours of prime meat cuts, in-house dry-aged beef, and the freshest local and tropical ingredients, expertly crafted by our South African Executive Chef David Eldridge. Surrounded by the elegant ambience of a 100-year-old former British consulate, with breathtaking views of the Ping River, you can enjoy a memorable evening of fine dining. Make a reservation today and savour the flavours of worldly cuisine in the comfort of this magnificent setting.

Renegade Craft Beer & Ciders

  • Price Range: $1 – $10
  • Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
  • Call: +66 95 009 5010
  • Cuisines: Brew Pub, American, Beer Restaurants
  • Meals: Late Night, Dinner, Drinks
  • Features: Seating, Reservations, Television, Full Bar, Serves Alcohol, Free Wifi, Delivery, Table Service, Takeout, Wine and Beer, Street Parking, Accepts Credit Cards, Sports Bars, Non-Smoking Restaurants
  • About: We specialize in an extensive selection of craft beers with over 200 different labels to choose from. With 10 rotating taps available for tastings, you can sample some of the finest brews from around the world. Our menu offers a variety of delicious options to satisfy everyone’s cravings, including pizza, burgers, salads, and mouth-watering desserts. We also have big-screen TVs for live sports and top-notch American pool tables. Our venue is fully air-conditioned and has a 100% air-purified system and if you prefer to sit outside, you can even order our beers at our sister restaurant UGO!