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Best things to do in Chiang Mai
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items I've been living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for over a year and have managed to do some amazing things in that time! I've put together a list of the best things I've done so far plus all of the things that are still on my list to do :)
Paper made of elephant poo? What's not to like?? Lol, in all honesty this is a fun family-friendly day out! You'll learn all about the process of creating the paper and even get an opportunity to make some yourself as a souvenir.
Elephant POOPOOPAPER Park Chiang Mai Tickets
Going to see a Muay Thai fight is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai! There's often a mix of professional and amateur fighters but the entire production is really entertaining. The venue is a decent size but not too big that you're straining ...
Thaphae Boxing Stadium
While it's possible to walk around the old city of Chiang Mai by yourself, there are so many amazing things to see and so having a local guide can be really beneficial!
Old City Tour
While I haven't actually been here myself yet, many of my friends and family have and they've all given rave reviews! Really fun day out for all the family.
Grand Canyon Water Park
Chiang Mai has over 300 temples to explore which can be a bit overwhemling! So if you're planning on visiting, I suggest picking a small number to visit and Wat Phra Singh should be one of them
Wat Phra Singh
Probably my most visited temple in Chiang Mai - it's really pretty and has amazing sweeping views of the city! You can actually walk up the hill to it but that would be a sweaty one!
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Hands down the busiest market in Chiang Mai! This market runs every Sunday night and stretches from Thae Pae gate into the middle of the old city. There are hundreds if not thousands of stalls here so having a local guide to show you around would be ...
Tha Phae Walking Street - Sunday Night Market
Really pretty market surrounded by coconut trees as the name suggests! This is one of the smaller markets in CM in terms of stalls etc but there's lots of space to wander around and take in the scenery. Also great for photos!
Coconut Market
Granted, the colour of the water is a little off-putting but seeing CM from the water is a nice way to experience the city! There are so many riverside restaurants and bars that you may not have known about otherwise and you can also get snippets of ...
Ping River Cruise
Really popular market in CM! This place is perfect for anyone who likes a bit of arts and crafts. There are so many shops and workshops - you can get involved in making your own notebook, painting, pottery etc. There's also a delicious Khao Soi resta...
Baan Kang Wat Market
Hands down my favourite market in Chiang Mai! It only operates on weekends and I go nearly every Saturday morning. They have an organic fruit & veg market so I buy all my produce for the week then there's lots of fresh homemade food, coffee etc p...
Jing Jai Market
Great day trip from Chiang Mai - only 1 hour outside the city! This cute village shows you a different side to Thailand
Mae Kampong Village
The largest mountain in Thailand - absolutely gorgeous!
Doi Inthanon National Park
Who doesn't love zip lining?! Amazing way to see Chiang Mai's breath taking mountain scenery
Jungle Flight Chiang Mai
One of the best things about Thailand is the food so joining a cookery class is an amazing way to learn the recipe and take a bit of the holiday home with you!
Mama Noi Thai Cookery School
Lesser known market near Nimman. You can find lots of vintage gems here!
Chiang Mai University Night Market
Huge market selling everything and anything! Runs every night from 5pm
Anusarn Market
Really lovely park to walk around! The trees here are incredible, and the landscaping is so beautiful. There's also a nice coffee shop to hang out in before or after!
Chang Thong Heritage Park, Chiang Mai
Beautiful walk to do in Chiang Mai! The trail is around 5km all in (there and back) and is easy to moderate. Doesn't take long to complete and is a nice way to escape the city for a little while!
Wat Pha Lat Monk's Trail
Lovely botanic gardens located East of the city. We rented bicycles when we came and spent a few hours cycling around the gardens and enjoying the day.
Tweechol Botanic Garden
If you're in Chiang Mai in November, you have to take part in the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals! The city really comes to life and it's a magical time to experience
OFFICIAL CAD YI PENG 2026 CHIANG MAI LANTERN ...