Chiang Mai
Whether it’s been months or years, everyone in a hot climate like ours craves a place with cool weather and natural beauty. And without a doubt, Chiang Mai remains one of the top destinations. If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai, here’s a guide to the must-visit spots.
Chiang Mai City
Start your journey in Chiang Mai’s “Muang Chiang Mai” district, a place full of art and Lanna culture, bustling with people but still a Favorite destination for slow-living enthusiasts. Explore contemporary Lanna-style art and visit temples for good fortune to kick off your trip.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep : A must-see landmark in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is essential for any traveller. Not only can you admire the Lanna architecture of the chedi in the Chiang Saen style, but you can also enjoy stunning views of the city from the temple. After visiting Doi Suthep, continue to the Mae Rim district to visit more temples and gain blessings.
Opening Hours: Daily from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Recommended Seasons: November – December
Best Time to Visit: 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Entrance Fee: 20 THB per person (tram service available)
Doi Inthanon : Begin your adventure with Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand. Apart from the cool weather and breathtaking views, the area is rich in flora, rivers, and waterfalls. The region also boasts numerous cold-climate plants.
Opening Hours: Daily from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Recommended Seasons: October – November
Best Time to Visit: 05:00 AM – 08:00 AM
Entrance Fee: 50 THB for adults / 20 THB for children
Siriphum Waterfall : Located just 11 minutes from the agricultural station, Siriphum Waterfall is a pristine natural area surrounded by cherry blossoms and forest greenery. It’s a beautiful, rewarding place to visit.
Opening Hours: Daily from 07:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Recommended Seasons: September – October
Best Time to Visit: 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM
Entrance Fee: 20 THB for adults / 10 THB for children
Homestay Ban Pa Bong Piang : For a relaxing Chiang Mai experience, stay in a homestay at Ban Pa Bong Piang, a village known for its terraced rice fields. Enjoy a peaceful sunset and explore the local food of the Mae Chaem district. There’s also a nearby waterfall worth visiting.
Opening Hours: Daily from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Recommended Seasons: August – October
Best Time to Visit: 07:00 AM – 09:00 AM or 04:00 PM – 05:00 PM
Cost: 500 THB per person (1 night stay)
Terrace Rice Fields at Ban Kong Kan and Others : Other stunning terraced rice fields in the Mae Chaem district include Ban Kong Kan, Pa Bong Piang, and Mae Pan. These fields are particularly beautiful during the rainy season (July – September) or when the rice turns golden during the harvest season (August – September).
Opening Hours: Daily from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Recommended Seasons: July – September
Best Time to Visit: 07:00 AM – 09:00 AM or 04:00 PM – 05:00 PM
Doi Suthep – Pui National Park : This park, located on the border between Doi Suthep and Doi Pui, offers stunning views, misty landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Visitors can also see local homes and beautiful flower gardens.
Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Recommended Seasons: December – January
Best Time to Visit: 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM
Entrance Fee: 20 THB for adults / 10 THB for children
Mae Tang Elephant Camp : The Mae Tang Elephant Camp is a popular destination for elephant lovers, where visitors can enjoy elephant shows and activities such as feeding, riding, and bathing elephants. There are also tea plantations nearby for a refreshing experience.
Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Recommended Seasons: October – December
Best Time to Visit: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Entrance Fee: Starting at 100 THB per person
Chiang Dao Cave : For a more adventurous experience, visit Chiang Dao Cave, a natural wonder full of stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is also home to Wat Chiang Dao, where a Buddha statue is enshrined.
Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Recommended Seasons: October – December
Best Time to Visit: 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Entrance Fee: 20 THB per person
Fang Hot Springs : Relax and warm up at the Fang Hot Springs, just 10 km from Fang district. You can soak in the hot water and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Opening Hours: Daily from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Recommended Seasons: November – December
Best Time to Visit: 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Entrance Fee: 50 THB per person
Doi Ang Khang : Doi Ang Khang is a stunning mountain destination where visitors can enjoy cold weather, scenic views, and rare flowers and plants. It’s perfect for a relaxing getaway in nature.
Opening Hours: Daily from 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Recommended Seasons: November – February
Best Time to Visit: 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Starting at 30 THB per person
Phu Phing Ratchaniwet Royal Villa : This beautiful royal residence, surrounded by lush gardens and flowers, is a must-visit in the Hang Dong area. It’s perfect for a tranquil escape.
Opening Hours: Daily from 08:30 AM to 03:30 PM
Recommended Seasons: October – December
Best Time to Visit: 05:00 AM – 08:00 AM
Entrance Fee: 20 THB for adults / 10 THB for children
Chiang Mai is a city that offers a perfect balance of nature and culture, with plenty of places to explore for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike!
