Chiang Mai: What to Do and See in Thailand’s Largest Northern City?

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, chances are you’ve heard of Chiang Mai. Located in the northern region of Thailand, the city of Chiang Mai is regarded as a cultural oasis and the largest city in the northern region of the country.

Chiang Mai is one of the most attractive hubs for tourism, being packed with cultural experiences, historical attractions, natural beauty and culinary delights. Here is a list of what to do and see in Chiang Mai – as well as where to stay and how to get around!

Things to Do

Chiang Mai is home to some incredible attractions. While it can be overwhelming choosing which activities to do, here are some of the most popular attractions:

• Visit the iconic temples- Chiang Mai is filled with beautiful and iconic temples including Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao, Wat umong and many more!
• Explore Doi Suthep – Doi Suthep is a mountain located 15 km from the city centre, covered by mist and tall trees, known as one of the most iconic attractions in Chiang Mai.
• Take part in Thai cooking classes – Cooking classes are offered throughout the city and are a great way to learn about local cuisine and experience the culture firsthand.
• Wander around the Night Bazaar – The most popular spot for souvenir shopping, this street market has hundreds of vendors selling everything from clothing to Thai street food.
• Go trekking in the mountains – Taft National Park offers spectacular views of rolling hills and forests. It’s a great way to explore nature and spot wildlife.
• Discover nature – Aside from Taft National Park, there are also other places to explore such as Mae Sa Waterfall, Mae Rim and Mae Ngat Somboonchon Dam.
• Experience Elephant Nature Park – This park is dedicated towards conservation of elephants and offers visitors a chance to interact with these animals, learn about them and even help out with their conservation efforts.
• Go shopping at Central Festival mall – This huge shopping mall has everything you could ever want – from designer boutiques to movie theatres and restaurants.
• Visit Wat Jed Yod – This ancient temple is located on the east side of Chiang Mai and is definitely worth checking out for its breathtaking architecture.

Where to Stay

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Chiang Mai, there are a few options: hotels, hostels, homestays and even Airbnbs. It all depends on your budget and what kind of area you’d like to stay in. Here are some of the best rated hotels in Chiang Mai:

Getting Around

When it comes to getting around in Chiang Mai, you have a few options – depending on your budget and preference: tuk-tuks, Grab Taxi or rent a scooter or a car.
Each option has its own pros and cons – tuk-tuks are cheap but can be dangerous if you don’t find a reputable driver; Grab is reliable but more expensive; Renting a scooter or car will allow you more flexibility and independence but requires certain documents such as an international driverʼs license.

In conclusion, there’s definitely no shortage of things to do in Chiang Mai! From visiting ancient temples to partaking in cooking classes, this city is home to some of the most unique experiences Thailand has to offer. With many beautiful accommodations at various price points ranging from hostels to luxury hotels, finding accommodation should not be a problem either. Additionally, getting around Chiang Mai is easy with various forms of travel available depending on individual preference or budget. Without a doubt, Chiang Mai will certainly make for an unforgettable holiday!

Insider’s Guide to Chiang Mai: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Thailand’s Largest Northern City

As the largest city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a hub of culture, history, and natural beauty. While the city has plenty of well-known attractions to keep you busy, there are also some hidden gems waiting to be discovered that only locals know. Here’s our insider’s guide to Chiang Mai – a city that will capture your heart and make you want to return.

Local Attractions: Discovering Chiang Mai’s Hidden Treasures

While temples such as Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh are popular tourist attractions, there are many lesser-known temples that are equally impressive. One such temple is Wat Umong – a peaceful forest temple built-in 1297. The temple’s main attraction is an intricate tunnel system that leads to a central stupa, which is surrounded by a tranquil fish pond. Another hidden gem is hidden in plain sight, tucked away in the eastern hills of Chiang Mai’s Old City. Wat Srisuphan, or “Silver Temple,” is a magnificent temple made entirely of silver and boasts stunning hand-carved details.

For something more natural, head to Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Here you’ll find the stunning Bua Thong Waterfalls, also known as the “sticky waterfalls” because of their limestone layers that create grippy surfaces compared to typical slippery waterfalls. This unique attraction is perfect for adventurous travelers, allowing you to climb up and down the waterfalls and soak in the natural surroundings.

Dining Spots: Exploring Chiang Mai’s Culinary Delights

One of the pleasures of visiting Chiang Mai is exploring the local cuisine. Start your culinary journey with Khao Soi – a popular Chiang Mai dish featuring egg noodles in a coconut curry broth served with chicken (or beef) and an assortment of crispy toppings. For something less spicy, try Sai Oua – a spicy Northern Thai sausage made with pork and herbs.

Chiang Mai is known for its vibrant night markets, and one of our favorites is the Chiang Mai Gate Market. Here, you’ll find an extensive selection of street food vendors serving up delicious northern Thai dishes, such as Khao Kha Moo (slow-cooked pork leg served with rice) and Kanom Jeen Nam Ngeow (chicken curry served with rice noodles).

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Chiang Mai’s Traditions

Chiang Mai has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many unique experiences available, such as a traditional Khantoke dinner, where you’ll sample a variety of Northern Thai dishes while seated on cushions and low tables, a custom that dates back to the ancient Lanna Kingdom. During Loi Krathong, which takes place in November, thousands of sky lanterns are released into the sky, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the Yi Peng festival.

You can also attend the weekly Sunday Walking Street Market, where you’ll discover handmade crafts made by local artisans. Or, explore the city’s street art scene by taking a self-guided walking tour. Along the way, you’ll discover murals and street art projects that highlight Chiang Mai’s unique charm.

Local History: Fascinating stories from Chiang Mai’s Past

While many tourists visit Chiang Mai for its temples and historic sites, the city also has some intriguing lesser-known stories from its past. For example, the fascinating story of the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre building itself, which was once a prison nicknamed “The House of Scream” due to its inhumane conditions. On a lighter note, during your visit to the Old City, don’t forget to look up and notice the strange protruding wood pieces at the base of many columns. Called “penis posts,” these were once believed to protect the building from spirits and are just one example of the unique architectural features and symbols embedded in Chiang Mai’s history.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions: Unique Chiang Mai Experiences

For a truly unique experience in Chiang Mai, head to the Bo Sang handicraft village, located just 9 km east of the city. Here you can witness traditional Thai umbrella-making, dating back to the early 18th century.

Another off-the-beaten-path spot worth visiting is the hidden Tiger Cave Temple, located about an hour from Chiang Mai. This temple is one of the few places where you can meditate alongside actual monks in a serene setting. But the real highlight is the stunning view from the mountain top: a serene panorama of Northern Thailand’s lush jungle and rolling mountains that stretches out as far as the eye can see.

In conclusion, this insider’s guide to Chiang Mai has provided you with a unique insight into the city’s hidden gems, culinary delights, cultural experiences, fascinating history, and unique off-the-beaten-path spots. It’s our hope that this guide will inspire you to explore Chiang Mai beyond its well-trodden tourist attractions and to dive deeper into the rich and vibrant tapestry of this enchanting northern city.