Travel BLOGGER + CONTENT CURATOR

50 Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a vibrant city in Northern Thailand that stole my heart during my recent visit. The things to do in Chiang Mai are endless and even took me by surprise, as there’s so much the city has to offer that I genuinely did not expect.

I had one week in the city to explore, and during my trip, I discovered so many things to do in Chiang Mai that I compiled in this blog post so you can plan a trip filled with exciting activities and places to visit!

Christina Jane with an elephant in Chiang Mai
In this blog post I share 50 things to do in Chiang Mai that will help shape your itinerary!

Table of Contents

—————————————————————

Disclaimer: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you book one of these activities using my link (and I know you will because you loved how helpful this blog post is 🙂, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting BCJ!

Similar Blog Posts You’ll Enjoy:


Cuddle with alpacas in the rolling hills of Chiang Mai 

The Monjam Alpaca Farm, nestled in the rolling hills of Chiang Mai’s Mon Jam area, has a group of friendly alpacas you can meet and exchange cuddles with in a stunning mountain setting. 

Surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views, the farm provides a calm atmosphere among nature where visitors can interact with the alpacas, feed them, and even take photos with the gentle, fluffy creatures. 

There is also a café where guests can enjoy local coffee and snacks while taking in the beautiful scenery and looking out at the alpacas while enjoying drinks or treats.

Monjam Alpaca Farm in Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: Monjam Alpaca Facebook

Learn the art of muay thai at a local training studio 

If you’re looking to stay active during your time in Chiang Mai, taking a muay Thai class is a fantastic way to get a great workout while learning the art of Thai martial arts from experienced professionals. 

The city is home to several training camps that offer classes for all skill levels, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced fighter. 

In these classes, you’ll learn the fundamentals of muay thai, such as techniques, footwork, and striking, all within a friendly and supportive training environment. 

Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Honor your spiritual journey with a sak yant tattoo

Sak Yant tattoos are traditional forms of spiritual tattooing originating in Southeast Asia, and in Chiang Mai, you can get yours at Sak Yant Chiang Mai

These tattoos are typically hand-poked designs that feature a combination of geometric shapes, symbols, and sometimes script, with specific patterns believed to hold spiritual or protective power.

Sak Yant are said to have deep spiritual significance and bring blessings, protection, good fortune, and healing to the wearer, and are usually applied by spiritual masters or monks, who use a bamboo or steel needle to tap the ink into the skin, a process known as “Sak”.

The tattoos are considered to have deep spiritual significance, and the wearer must follow certain rituals and respect the spiritual rules associated with them, so doing your research and understanding the meaning behind the practice is important.

Sak Yant Tattoo
Photo Credit: Sak Yant Chiang Mai

Encounter animals on a night safari 

The night safari is one of the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai after dark.

Covering about 1,000 acres of land, the zoo is divided into several zones designed to showcase different habitats, such as savannahs, forests, and jungles, each offering unique encounters with various animal species.

During your safari, you can expect to spot a wide range of animals, from zebras and giraffes to tigers, leopards, and hyenas. 

You can even take tram rides around the zoo to seamlessly go from area to area and even attend a live show with animal demonstrations. 

Night Safari Chiang Mai

Get an introduction of northern thai street food on a night tour

Northern Thailand is known for having its own set of dishes specific to the region, and what better way to try them all than on a street food tour at night when the markets are alive and thriving?

Over the course of three hours, you will try at least eight dishes, from accompanying ones like sticky rice to delicious desserts like coconut Thai pudding, many of which are prepared fresh right in front of you. It’s also a great way to knock two market visits out with one tour.

I did this food tour the night I flew into Chiang Mai. It was such a great introduction to Northern Thailand’s culinary scene and made me appreciate the rest of my dishes on my trip on another level, so I highly recommend it. 

Visit a koi carp fish cafe

A curated cafe in Chiang Mai, Carp Cafe will give you a unique eating experience you’ll have to brag about.

The cafe is known for its lush, green surroundings and the koi carp fish that swim in the water, surrounded by booth and bench-style eating, which you can feed while enjoying a meal. 

The menu offers a variety of Thai dishes and drinks, best suited for a quick bite or afternoon coffee. 

I visited Carp Cafe in the morning, and it was not crowded. I greatly enjoyed being able to explore the cafe and all of its beauty freely.

Tips: Don’t forget to visit the bathroom for a surprise and bring cash for the fish food!

Watch the sunrise at the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple

One of Chiang Mai’s most iconic temples, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Chiang Mai.

The temple’s significance comes from its being on a spiritual site and its stunning location atop Doi Suthep mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city below. It is considered one of the holiest temples in northern Thailand. 

It is where you can explore the stunning Lanna-style architecture, including a statue of the Buddha and other intricate features. 

The temple is about 30-60 minutes away from the center.

You can reach the temple by climbing the 306-step staircase or taking a cable car for just 10 Baht ($0.29).

As a foreigner, there’s a 30 Baht ($0.87) entry fee to enter the temple.

Visit an umbrella crafts village 

A great opportunity to witness traditional Thai Craftsmanship in real-time, a visit to the Bo Sang Umbrella Village, located just outside of Chiang Mai, is the place to go.

The village is known for its handmade umbrellas crafted from silk or cotton and adorned with Thai cultural symbols. 

While at the village, you’ll watch artisans work hard as they follow the process that brings each umbrella to life, and you even have the chance to purchase one!

Umbrella Village Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Spend a day feeding and swimming with elephants 

An ethical elephant hotel in Chiang Mai, Chai Lai Orchid is a popular elephant lodging property in the area that offers elephant encounter experiences during the day that I would highly recommend booking!

If you are not staying at the property, you can still do a day trip and select from available activity packages to make your time memorable.

I did the Elephant Care ½ Adventure for 2500 Baht ($74.12). This package includes the following:

  • Feeding the elephants 
  • Making their herbal medicine 
  • Walking alongside them in the jungle 
  • Meeting a baby elephant 
  • Bathing and swimming with the elephants in the river 
  • Lunch at Chai Lai Orchid 
  • Transportation to and from Chai Lai from Chiang Mai 

Throughout the day, I walked through every step and spent more than enough time with elephants, making this experience a highlight of my time in Chiang Mai!

Float along a river on a bamboo raft 

Bamboo rafting in Chiang Mai provides a peaceful way to explore rivers like the Pai River or Mae Taeng River from a unique perspective—aboard a handmade bamboo raft. 

As you relax, a guide will steer the raft downr iver, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. 

Depending on the tour you choose, you may encounter local wildlife along the way, including birds and even elephants, making it a truly memorable experience. 

The slow-paced, scenic journey offers a calm escape, giving you the chance to enjoy the beauty of Chiang Mai’s rivers and lush landscapes.

Christina Jane on a bamboo raft

Celebrate the use of coconuts in Thai culture at the weekend coconut market 

Open on Saturdays and Sundays every week from 8 am – 2 pm, the coconut market in Chiang Mai focuses on the use of coconuts in Thai culture and showcases a variety of foods with the fruit.

The market is stunning, with dozens of coconut trees in the background and merchant stalls lined around its perimeter.

You will find great food and entertainment, as there is a mini petting zoo perfect for children and live performances. 

Stroll through the Chinatown neighborhood

The Chinatown neighborhood in Chiang Mai is near the city’s Old City and immerses you in Chinese culture with its colorful streets lined with traditional Chinese architecture, temples, and markets. 

The fresh street food in the neighborhood is one reason alone to visit, with cuisines like dim sum, dumplings, and bao available for your consumption. 

Whether you’re looking to sample authentic cuisine, shop for unique items, or soak in the rich cultural atmosphere, Chinatown in Chiang Mai is a great way to pass time. 

Chinatown in Chiang Mai

Shop with diverse vendors at the Sunday Night Market 

The Sunday Night Market in Chiang Mai is held every Sunday evening along Ratchadamnoen Road in the Old City.

The market stretches for several blocks, likely over one hundred stalls brimming with handmade crafts, local art, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. At the same time, street food vendors serve Thai snacks and dishes, from pad thai and mango sticky rice to grilled meats and refreshing coconut drinks. 

Starting as early as 4 pm every Sunday and going until midnight, this market fills up quickly and gets hard to move around as it is the place to be. 

The market offers an opportunity to shop and eat and allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, making it a must-visit experience for anyone in Chiang Mai on a Sunday evening.

Sunday Night Market
Photo Credit: Ahn Jiyoung

Book an overnight stay at an elephant lodge

Among all the things to do in Chiang Mai, you’ll be excited to discover an accommodation option where you can wake up to elephant encounters right outside your window!

Chai Lai Orchid offers bungalows set in the jungle, complete with “elephant room service.”

You can choose from a mountain-view or river-view bungalow, or opt for a stay in the garden homestay.

An overnight stay at Chai Lai Orchid is a unique travel experience that combines relaxation with the beauty of nature.

Elephant Bungalow Stay Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: Chai Lai Orchid

Attend a local muay thai boxing match 

Experience the thrill of witnessing world-class fighters head-to-head in adrenaline-pumping matches at a local Muay Thai match.

As a spectator in the crowd of this match, I attended the Night Bazaar; I had a great time! The atmosphere of Muay Thai matches is very lively, and it was exciting. 

Several rounds of fighters from all over the world compete, and it may even be a great way to meet new people!

Muay Thai Match Thailand

Explore Chiang Mai’s most popular national park 

Outdoor lovers will love knowing that Chiang Mai province has a national park known for its stunning waterfalls, walking trails, landscapes, and high elevations. 

Doi Inthanon National Park is centered around Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak, which rises to 2,565 meters (8,415 feet) above sea level.

The Park covers approximately 482 square kilometers and features a variety of ecosystems (Thai National Parks). 

It also has different sites and attractions sprinkled throughout the nature area that you can drive to and from.

You’ll need at least half a day to explore the Park to see why nature lovers and trekkers gravitate to Doi Inthanon while in Chiang Mai. 

Highest Spot in Thailand Sign

Unwind with a spa day at Fah Lanna Spa 

Thailand has an incredible wellness industry with aspects of relaxation and health infused into the culture. 

While you’ll find spas located all over Chiang Mai, one I would highly recommend and enjoyed my time at is the Fah Lanna Spa

Fah Lanna has several branches in Chiang Mai and has spa packages and services like massages, body scrubs, facials, and herbal steam baths designed to restore balance and promote well-being. 

During my time at the spa, I opted for a 2-hour massage, a royal bath, and time in the herbal steam room. I spent a total of 3 hours and loved my experience at the spa. 

Support Chiang Mai’s LGBTQ+ community at a drag show

Thailand is widely regarded as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly nations in Asia. The LGBTQ+ community is vibrant and well-alive, with gay bars, clubs, and events that thrive.

One popular venue is the “6ixcret Show,” a cabaret and drag performance bar that runs most nights at the gay bar, featuring different acts that usually begin at 9:30 pm.

Over a few hours, you’ll watch different performers liven the atmosphere with their musical performances, costume changes, props, and more. 

Drag Show Chiang Mai

Cruise along the Mae Ping River 

A cruise along the Mae Ping River in Chiang Mai is a peaceful and picturesque way to discover the city from a different angle.

The boat ride takes you along the river, offering a rare glimpse into the daily life that unfolds along its banks. 

As you float by, you’ll see greenery, traditional wooden homes,  rural villages, and other aspects of local life that often go unnoticed by tourists.

This cruise is a great way to experience the more rural side of Chiang Mai, providing an alternative perspective of the city away from its bustling streets.

Refresh yourself with time at a hot springs pool 

Located in areas like San Kamphaeng and Mae On, Chiang Mai has a few hot springs known for their therapeutic mineral-rich waters, which have healing properties for the skin and muscles. 

Many hot springs offer public and private pools, allowing visitors to soak in the warm, soothing waters, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views of the surrounding hills. 

The most popular hot spring in Chiang Mai, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, is said to be so hot that you can boil an egg!

San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
Photo Credit: Alexandrine

Experience one of Chiang Mai’s modern malls

Home to an array of modern shopping stores like Zara and Sephora, Maya Mall in Chiang Mai has a blend of high-end international brands and unique boutiques showcasing local designers. 

The mall is a great hangout spot as it has a selection of restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options, including a cinema and an indoor ice rink. 

With its sleek design, spacious layout, and stunning rooftop view of the city and surrounding mountains, Maya Mall is a popular spot, especially for Western tourists. 

It’s an ideal place to shop, dine, or relax while experiencing the energy of Chiang Mai’s urban scene.

Maya Mall Chiang Mall
Photo Credit: Maya Mall

Grab a bite to eat at a stall from at the Night Bazaar 

The Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai is another nighttime marketplace that comes to life after sunset, offering a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. 

At the Bazaar, several stalls sell everything from handmade crafts and clothing to local artwork and souvenirs. 

I thought I saw it all after visiting a few of Chiang Mai’s markets at night. I visited the Bazaar by chance, and I am so glad I did. It ended up being my favorite night market!

My favorite part of the Bazaar is its “Food Center,” where several vendors offer Thai food and international cuisines like Mexican tacos, grilled meats, and mango sticky rice. 

The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with live music and performers adding charm. 

Cook a three-course lunch in an organic kitchen

With so many rich dishes unique to Thai culture, taking a cooking class is one of the things to do in Chiang Mai that you will not regret doing!

On this cooking tour, you’ll learn to cook traditional Thai dishes with a local family in their kitchen garden. 

You’ll start by visiting a local market to choose herbs and ingredients, then get to work crafting the perfect three-course lunch before enjoying the meal with other guests. 

Thai cooking class
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Soar through the air on a jungle rollercoaster

Pong Yaeng Jungle Coaster & Zipline is an adventure park featuring a thrilling combination of outdoor activities, including an exciting jungle coaster ride that has become a fairly popular activity in Chiang Mai. 

The Jungle Coaster, though said to be short, allows riders to race down a track in duo-bobsleds at speed a few feet above the ground while you pass views of the jungle.

Whether you ride solo or with a partner, the rollercoaster, one of the park’s highlights, is a thrilling way to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding nature.

Jungle Coaster Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Fly above nature on one of many zipline courses 

Chiang Mai has several zipline courses that will take you soaring high above the jungle.

Ziplining in Chiang Mai is not an activity I was expecting to find, but it’s yet another way to experience the natural beauty of northern Thailand’s lush landscapes that are set amidst towering trees, and scenic mountains.

Tours are usually guided and you can expect to choose from varied courses of difficulty.

Ziplining in Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Climb up a sticky waterfall 

The sticky waterfall, officially known as Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall is one of the coolest things to do in Chiang Mai, allowing visitors to walk up a running waterfall! 

The charm of this attraction is being able to climb up the 100m waterfall due to its slip-free (for the most part) property. 

This is due to the mineral deposits on the rocks, preventing them from being slippery, but providing a sort of grip for climbers. 

The trip from Chiang Mai to the Sticky Waterfall is about an hour and a half and many group tours are available to join to make the journey even easier.

Sticky Waterfalls Chiang Mai
PhotoCredit: GetYourGuide

Browse boutique shops and cafes at One Nimman 

Nimman, short for Nimmanhaemin, is a trendy district in Chiang Mai known for its vibrant atmosphere, artistic vibe, and modern amenities. 

You’ll find One Nimman, an open-air shopping center with cafes, art displays, and several boutique shops within the district. 

I enjoyed walking around the complex and seeing a more modern side to Chiang Mai than what I had been experiencing. 

Watch animals from afar during a zoo visit 

With over 400 species, the Chiang Mai Zoo is one of Thailand’s largest and most well-known zoo facilities. 

As a visitor, you can expect to see everything from tigers, elephants, and gibbons to rare species like pandas, which are part of the zoo’s successful breeding program. 

In addition to animal exhibits, Chiang Mai Zoo features a beautiful botanical garden, an aquarium with marine life displays, and a tram ride that offers an easy way to navigate the expansive grounds. 

The zoo even offers night tours, where you get a chance to see animals in a different light. 

Chiang Mai Zoo
Photo Credit: Chiang Mai Zoo

Enjoy the excitement of watching a miracle cabaret show

Chiang Mai is no stranger to creative musical performances; this talent can be seen in a miracle cabaret show.

These shows are high-energy performances that blend costumes, captivating choreography, and stunning visuals to create an experience worth remembering.

The shows usually feature talented “ladyboy” performers who showcase their extraordinary singing, dancing, and lip-syncing skills in a series of high-energy acts. 

Miracle Cabaret Show Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Attend a Khum Khantoke Dinner Show 

Enjoy a traditional Khantoke dinner at Khum Khantoke, a Lanna-style restaurant, while watching musical and theatrical performances that tell a story. 

A khantoke is a pedestal tray used as a dining table by the Lanna people while seated on the floor. It is a traditional northern Thai style of eating. 

Although the food was not the best, this was one of my favorite things to do in Chiang Mai! I loved getting to experience dining in that way, and I loved the dinner and showing aspects of the experience. 

The restaurant offers normal, vegetarian, and halal dinner sets you can choose from. 

Khum Khantoke Dinner

Take a tuk tuk ride to a local attraction site 

Riding a tuk-tuk in Chiang Mai is an exciting way to explore the city’s street life. 

Tuk tuks are three-wheeled cart vehicles, often decorated with colorful adornments, that are popular transport methods in the city.

After negotiating your fare with the driver, hop inside and enjoy the ride as your driver takes you through the bustling streets, narrow lanes, and even neighborhoods of Chiang Mai. 

Whether you’re heading to one of the many markets in the city or venturing a bit away from the main city center, a tuk-tuk ride offers a fun way to see sights.

Receive a spontaneous massage at a small parlor 

One of the best things about exploring Chiang Mai is that with every turn of a corner, you will find a small massage parlor with masseuses and masseurs waiting for customers. 

Small massage parlors in Chiang Mai offer a more intimate and authentic experience than larger spas, often providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. 

Tucked away in narrow lanes or within local neighborhoods, these cozy establishments often specialize in traditional Thai massages, where therapists blend gentle stretching and acupressure techniques to ease tension and promote relaxation. 

Enjoy a foot massage after a day of sightseeing, or indulge in a full-body oil massage that will leave you feeling refreshed for another day. 

Dress up for a dinner cruise at the Anantara Resort

You can never go wrong with a romantic, intimate dinner cruising the Jao Ping River

The Anantara Chiang Mai Resort offers this cruise, sets sail from its private pier, and offers rides on their teak scorpion-tail or barge, passing by beautiful sites along the river. 

While the cruise departs at various times throughout the day, dinner is said to be one of the most beautiful times to ride and comes with a menu to enjoy on your ride. 

Photo Credit: Anantara Chiang Mai

Learn the ins and outs of Chiang Mai on a walking tour

One of the best ways to get to know a new city is through a walking tour; thankfully, it is one of the things to do in Chiang Mai!

On this guided tour, you’ll get to see some of Chiang Mai’s most popular landmarks and discover the history behind each attraction briefly. 

With stops like  Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh on the itinerary, a walking tour is a great way to familiarize yourself with different neighborhoods in Chiang Mai and maybe even meet some new people in the process!

Chiang Mai Walking Tour
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Take a day trip to the temples of color 

Chiang Mai has three popular colorful temples known for their intricate murals, bright mosaics, and stunning architecture in Chiang Rai, a few hours away. 

Wat Rong Khun is the white temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten is the blue temple, and Huay Pla Kang Temple is the red one. 

With its unique color scheme and design, each temple tells its own story and invites visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings, learn about local Buddhist traditions, and appreciate the incredible craftsmanship that goes into each temple’s creation. 

Red Temples
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Head to the countryside for a 3-hour ATV ride 

Start your day with an ATV ride in the countryside of Chiang Mai for an exhilarating 3-hour ATV ride that takes you off the beaten path and deep into nature.

You’ll be taken to an adventure base camp where you’ll be given everything you need for a ride that includes scenic views as you navigate through rugged trails, dense jungles, and rolling hills. 

Along the way, you may even pass by traditional Thai villages, lush rice paddies, and winding rivers while immersing yourself in the serene landscape surrounding Chiang Mai. 

ATV riding in Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Ride the white water rapids 

If outdoor thrills are your thing, you’ll love learning that white water rafting is one of the high-energy things to do in Chiang Mai. 

On this 2-1 white water rafting tour, you will brace high-class rapids and get to hike and trek through the jungle to arrive at a 10-meter high waterfall, where you can swim and enjoy its cool waters. 

The adventure will likely take an entire day and is a great way to fill up your Chiang Mai itinerary.

Water Rafting Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Lodge in a bubble with views of free-roaming elephants 

Escape into nature for an unforgettable night at the luxurious two-bedroom Jungle Bubble Lodge at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

The resort has fully transparent bubble rooms, steps away from elephants enjoying their natural environment.

The experience comes to life even more at night when the sights of the stars can be visibly seen from the bubble’s platform. 

Jungle Bubble Resort
Photo Credit: Jungle Bubble

Jump off of cliffs and inflatable objects at a waterpark 

The Grand Canyon Water Park is an inflatable course park surrounded by a natural cliff in Chiang Mai with thrilling water slides, an inflatable obstacle course, and plenty of opportunities to relax by the water. 

The park also features kayaking, wakeboarding, and paddleboarding for those seeking more adventure. 

The stunning landscape, towering cliffs, and crystal-clear water add a dramatic backdrop to all the fun. 

Stroll the campus grounds of Chiang Mai University

Visiting Chiang Mai University can be a great insight into one of Thailand’s most prestigious institutions.

The campus is beautiful and set against the backdrop of the Doi Suthep mountain. The campus is expansive and beautifully landscaped, with lush gardens, tranquil lakes, and tree-lined walkways that create a peaceful atmosphere for exploration. 

One of the campus highlights is the Chiang Mai University Art Museum, which showcases contemporary Thai art and hosts various cultural exhibitions throughout the year. As a visitor, you can also explore the university’s botanical gardens, home to diverse plant species, or take a stroll around the campus’s iconic clock tower. 

The campus is a hub of academic activity and a serene place for visitors to experience Chiang Mai’s educational and cultural life. 

CM University
Photo Credit: Andres

Go on a temple walk with a former Buddhist monk 

On this temple walking tour guided by a former Buddhist monk, you’ll visit three temples while learning about the practices of Buddhism from a trusted source. 

Touring temples with a Buddhist monk in Chiang Mai offers a unique, insightful experience that deepens your understanding of Thai culture, spirituality, and Buddhism. 

As you visit each site, the monk will share stories, teachings, and insights into the history and significance of each temple, as well as the spiritual practices and rituals there. 

Temple Walk Tour
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Release lanterns into the sky to celebrate Yi Peng 

The Lantern Festival (known as Yi Peng) in Chiang Mai is one of the most mesmerizing and culturally significant events in northern Thailand. 

Held annually during the full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar (usually in November), this festival celebrates the end of the rainy season and honors the Buddha. 

The festival is celebrated with the spectacular sight of thousands of lanterns being released into the night sky, symbolizing the letting go of past troubles and the hope for a brighter future. 

The streets of Chiang Mai come alive with vibrant parades, traditional dances, and beautiful displays of light. If you can, it may be worth planning your trip around this event so you can experience it!

Lantern Festival Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: Lantern Ticket

Attend a day meditation retreat centered around self care 

A day meditation retreat in Chiang Mai is perfect for self-care and inner reflection. 

During this day retreat, you’ll learn to practice mindful walking and guided sitting meditation in a serene nature setting. 

Following these practices, the retreat leader will practice yoga stretches before finishing the day with a hot cup of tea or coffee in a garden. 

Combining guided sessions, silence, and nature creates a powerful space for self-discovery, stress relief, and emotional healing. 

Meditation Retreat
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Capture memories of your time with a photoshoot 

Capturing memories on your Chiang Mai trip with a photo shoot at some of the city’s most Instagram-worthy spots is a fantastic way to preserve the magic of your experience. 

On this photoshoot, you’ll be taken to a few spots around Chiang Mai with stunning backdrops and picturesque locations, perfect for photo ops.

The sites you’ll visit include the White Pagoda up on the Hill, Carp Cafe, Dantewada Land of Angels Waterfall Park, and the Wat Ban Den.

Chiang Mai Photoshoot
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Fly high above Chiang Mai on a paramotor 

Riding a paramotor in Chiang Mai offers an exhilarating way to experience the breathtaking landscapes of northern Thailand from above. 

As you soar through the sky, you’ll have panoramic views of lush rice fields, winding rivers, and the towering peaks of the Doi Suthep mountains. 

The thrill of flying in a powered paraglider allows you to glide gracefully over the stunning natural scenery, feeling the wind in your hair while surrounded by the beauty of Chiang Mai’s countryside. 

Before your flight, you’ll be trained and prepared with everything you need to know to make your ride successful.

Paramotor Triking Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Cycle through the city on a bike tour 

Riding a bike as part of a tour in Chiang Mai is an immersive way to explore the city and its surroundings, especially if you are just arriving. 

Whether you’re cycling through the charming old city, past ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, or venturing out into the lush countryside, a bike tour lets you experience the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes at a particular pace, getting to stop at each attraction and neighborhood to take it all in. 

With knowledgeable guides leading the way, a bike tour offers a fun and active way to explore and gain a deeper understanding of Chiang Mai’s history, culture, and natural beauty. 

Bike Tour
Photo Credit: Bike Tour

Delve into the artistry of bamboo fan weaving 

Traditional Lanna bamboo fan weaving is a cultural activity in Chiang Mai that offers a hands-on experience of one of northern Thailand’s most cherished crafts. 

During a weaving workshop, you’ll learn how to craft these beautiful, lightweight fans using bamboo strips and vibrant threads to create delicate patterns. 

Skilled artisans will walk you through the techniques passed down through generations. 

It’s a fun and creative activity and a meaningful way to connect with Chiang Mai’s cultural heritage and take home a unique, handmade souvenir. 

Bamboo Weaving

Zip through a race course with go karts

Go kart racing at Chiang Mai’s largest go-kart field in the city, Chiang Mai Circuit.  

The facility equips you with everything you need regarding safety gear, tells you everything you need to know, and you are off to race and find your way around the course. 

With more than 30 food and beverage restaurants and a gaming zone, this establishment is a great way to pass time.

Gokarting in Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: Circuit Karting

Experience Chiang Mai’s nightlife on a bar hop tour 

Chiang Mai’s Old Town has several cocktail lounges, beer bars, and hip cafes that transform into night spots, perfect for enjoying a chilled drink and meeting fellow travelers. 

Nimmanhaemin Road is where most bar-hopping tours will likely take you, where you’ll find expertly mixed drinks and an intimate atmosphere. 

The best part is that you will be with a local guide who knows what spots to go to and which ones to avoid for a good time!

Whether you’re in the mood for dancing, enjoying live music, or just a simple cocktail, Chiang Mai’s bar scene has something for everyone.

Bar hopping in Chiang Mai
Photo Credit: GetYourGuide

Learn about the city’s history at the Chiang Mai Museum 

The Chiang Mai National Museum takes you into northern Thailand’s rich cultural and historical heritage. 

The museum showcases an impressive collection of artifacts, traditional costumes, ancient Buddhist sculptures, and historical exhibits highlighting the region’s significance within the Lanna Kingdom. 

Visitors can explore the museum’s various galleries, which cover a wide range of topics, from the history of Chiang Mai and its people to the art, religion, and customs that have shaped the region over centuries. 

National Museum
Photo Credit: Tourism Thailand

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Christina Jane Travel Writer

About The Blogger

I’m Christina, a travel blogger and content creator from Fort Myers, Florida.

Being Christina Jane is my way of inviting you to join me on my travel ventures by sharing the knowledge gained from my adventures and experiences— both good and bad.

This travel blog is filled with helpful travel tips, information, and is a recollection of the lessons I’ve learned and experiences I’ve had while traveling.

My goal is to curate a space that interconnects my love for travel and transparency and I hope you will join me on that journey. 

AS SEEN IN:

Connect With Me!

Disclaimer

Some posts on this website may contain affiliate links. Meaning if you buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and may even save you money!.

Anything I ever recommend is because I genuinely enjoyed that product/service. I promise to always keep it real with you!

Also, opinions and posts expressed on this blog are of my own accord. 

Learn How to Become A Virtual Assistant and Make Money from Anywhere in the World Like Me!

More Blog Posts to Check Out:

Categories

Get The Latest Updates

Subscribe To My Weekly Newsletter

Receive a weekly list of travel scholarships, travel writing opportunities, travel contests, giveaways, and more!

On Key

Related Posts

50 Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a vibrant city in Northern Thailand that stole my heart during my recent visit. The things to do in Chiang Mai are

Local Food Restaurants in Accra 

One of the best parts of traveling to Ghana is the range of traditional local dishes you can try while visiting. Ghana is a foodie’s dream, as

Chiang Mai Travel Guide

Known for being a striking contrast to Thailand’s capital’s fast-paced, bustling atmosphere, Bangkok, Chiang Mai offers a peaceful and serene alternative in the country’s Northern