Chiang Mai
Thailand
Attractions & Events in Chiang Mai
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Top Attractions
Art in Paradise Chiang Mai
Interactive 3D art museum where visitors can pose with immersive optical illusions and trompe-l'œil paintings.
Tips: Bring a camera or smartphone for fun photos. Great for families and rainy days.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
A bustling market filled with local handicrafts, street food, and souvenirs, popular with both tourists and locals.
Tips: Open every evening; bring cash and be prepared to bargain. Sample local street food and enjoy live music.
Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium
Family-friendly attraction featuring a wide variety of animals and Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium.
Tips: Allow half a day to explore; there is a shuttle bus for easier navigation. Ideal for families with children.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Home to Thailand’s highest peak, beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, and unique flora and fauna.
Tips: Dress warmly as it can be cool at higher elevations. Guided tours recommended for best experience; great for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Elephant Nature Park
A renowned elephant rescue and rehabilitation center focused on ethical tourism and animal welfare.
Tips: Book tours in advance, wear comfortable outdoor clothing, and avoid riding elephants. Ideal for families and animal lovers.
Huay Tung Tao Lake
Scenic lake surrounded by mountains, popular for relaxing, picnicking, and bamboo hut dining.
Tips: Rent a bike or paddle boat; try local fish dishes at lakeside restaurants. Best for couples and groups.
Lanna Folklife Museum
Museum dedicated to northern Thai (Lanna) culture, arts, and traditions, housed in a former colonial building.
Tips: Centrally located near the Three Kings Monument; combine with a stroll through the Old City. Informative for history buffs.
MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center
Modern shopping mall with international and Thai brands, rooftop bars, cinema, and restaurants.
Tips: Perfect for shopping, dining, and nightlife; check out the rooftop for city views and evening events.
Nimmanhaemin Road
Trendy district known for its chic cafes, art galleries, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife.
Tips: Perfect for digital nomads and foodies; visit in the evening for the best nightlife and café culture.
Old City Walls and Gates
Remnants of Chiang Mai's ancient city walls and moat, with historic gates like Tha Phae Gate serving as iconic landmarks.
Tips: Ideal for a walking or cycling tour; explore during the Sunday Walking Street Market for a vibrant local scene.
Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
Lively local market offering fresh produce, spices, street food, and traditional textiles.
Tips: Go early for the freshest selections and best deals. Try northern Thai specialties like sai ua sausage and khao soi.
Wat Chedi Luang
Historic temple complex featuring a massive 14th-century ruined chedi and revered city pillar.
Tips: Visit in the morning for a quieter atmosphere. Modest attire required; donations appreciated.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
A sacred Buddhist temple perched on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai, offering stunning city views and intricate Lanna architecture.
Tips: Wear modest clothing, be prepared to climb over 300 steps or use the funicular, and visit early morning for fewer crowds.
Events & Festivals
Songkran Festival
Celebration of the Thai New Year featuring city-wide water fights, traditional ceremonies, and cultural performances.
When: April
Tips: Wear waterproof clothing, protect your electronics, and join the festivities around the Old City moat and Tha Phae Gate.
Chiang Mai Design Week
A week-long event celebrating design and creativity with exhibitions, workshops, and markets showcasing local and international talent.
When: December
Tips: Explore venues across the city, including the Old City and Nimmanhaemin area; check the schedule for specific workshops and talks.
Chiang Mai Jazz Festival
An annual event featuring performances from renowned jazz artists and local talents in various venues across the city.
When: December
Tips: Check the festival schedule for performance times and venues; arrive early to secure good seating.
Chiang Mai Marathon
An annual marathon event attracting runners worldwide, featuring various race categories through scenic city routes.
When: December
Tips: Register in advance, train for the tropical climate, and enjoy the supportive atmosphere along the race route.
Royal Project Fair
An exhibition showcasing sustainable agricultural products and initiatives from the Royal Project, including organic produce and handicrafts.
When: December
Tips: Explore the fair to learn about sustainable farming practices and purchase high-quality local products.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival
A vibrant three-day festival showcasing the region's floral beauty with elaborate flower-covered floats, cultural performances, and exhibitions.
When: February
Tips: Visit Suan Buak Haad Park for the main displays and arrive early to secure a good spot for the parade.
Bo Sang Umbrella and Handicrafts Festival
A festival in Bo Sang village celebrating traditional umbrella-making with parades, cultural performances, and artisan markets.
When: January
Tips: Visit Bo Sang village to witness artisans at work and purchase unique handcrafted souvenirs.
Doi Suthep Pilgrimage
A spiritual nighttime walk up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, involving thousands of devotees carrying candles and flowers.
When: May
Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a flashlight, and participate respectfully in the pilgrimage.
Inthakhin City Pillar Festival
An eight-day religious festival centered around Wat Chedi Luang, involving offerings, traditional dances, and cultural performances.
When: May
Tips: Participate respectfully in the ceremonies and enjoy the local food stalls and performances in the evenings.
Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festivals
Celebrations involving the release of floating krathongs on waterways and sky lanterns into the night sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
When: November
Tips: Join the festivities along the Ping River and at Tha Phae Gate; be mindful of safety regulations regarding lantern releases.