Chiang Mai Province travel guide & travel tips

With good reason, Chiang Mai Province is the most visited tourist destination in the north of Thailand as it has the lion’s share of the region’s attractions. It is the largest province in the country, mostly mountainous but with a big, broad valley where the busy administrative centre of Chiang Mai has ruled the region for the past 700 years.

Where to Go

Chiang Mai: A vibrant city known for its ancient temples, bustling night markets, and stunning mountainous landscapes.
Chiang Dao: Famous for its majestic limestone caves, serene hot springs, and the towering Doi Chiang Dao mountain.
Chom Thong: Home to the sacred Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong temple and a gateway to Doi Inthanon National Park.
Fang: Known for its hot springs, beautiful orchards, and the scenic Fang Valley surrounded by mountains.
San Pa Tong: A charming town offering traditional handicrafts, local markets, and cultural festivals.
Tha Ton: A picturesque riverside village, starting point for boat trips down the Kok River to Chiang Rai, and close to Wat Tha Ton temple.

Highlights of this province include Chiang Mai’s Old City with its many ancient temples inside the walls and moat, the revered Doi Suthep temple on the mountain to the west of the city, excavated ruins of an ancient city at Wiang Kum Kam and the national park of Doi Suthep with its waterfalls, nature trails and royal palace.

Other attractions in the province include the popular Doi Inthanon National Park, which features Thailand’s highest mountain (2,565m), and some impressive waterfalls. South of Doi Inthanon, Ob Luang Gorge is Thailand’s (tiny) answer to the Grand Canyon in the USA.

North of Chiang Mai city is Chiang Dao Mountain and caves and the nearby Si Lanna National Park. The province extends north to the Myanmar border to include the highlands of Doi Angkhang. The Huai Nam Dang National Park off the spectacular windy mountain road to Pai is another excellent highland nature reserve.

One of the most popular activities for visitors to Chiang Mai is to visit an elephant camp or farm and spend some time in the company of these gentle giants. There are plenty of opportunities to learn new skills too, and it’s easy to sign up for courses to study Thai cooking, massage or even meditation.

On the whole Chiang Mai boasts an excellent tourist infrastructure with good roads, making it ideal for self-drive excursions. The city itself is a curious blend of ancient sites, a laid back atmosphere and cosmopolitan facilities. It’s also famous for its handicraft industry, suited to shoppers, and well-preserved Lanna culture.

( + + )

Where to Go

Highlights

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park: Home to the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple with panoramic views of Chiang Mai city.
Chiang Mai Old City: Historic area surrounded by ancient walls and a moat, filled with temples, markets, and charming streets.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: A bustling evening market offering local handicrafts, clothing, and delicious street food.
Elephant Nature Park: Ethical sanctuary providing a safe haven for rescued elephants, with opportunities for visitors to learn and interact.
Doi Inthanon National Park: Features Thailand’s highest peak, stunning views, waterfalls, and trekking trails.
Sunday Walking Street: Vibrant market in the Old City with local crafts, street food, and live performances every Sunday evening.
Chiang Mai Night Safari: Nocturnal zoo experience with tram rides to observe animals in a naturalistic environment.
Bo Sang Umbrella Village: Renowned for traditional handcrafted umbrellas and parasols, with artisans demonstrating their craft.
Bua Thong Waterfalls: (Sticky Waterfalls) - Unique waterfalls with limestone rocks that allow visitors to safely climb up the cascades.
Mae Kampong Village: Picturesque mountain village offering a tranquil retreat with traditional wooden houses and tea plantations.

Top Cities

Chiang Mai: A vibrant city known for its ancient temples, bustling night markets, and stunning mountainous landscapes.
Chiang Dao: Famous for its majestic limestone caves, serene hot springs, and the towering Doi Chiang Dao mountain.
Chom Thong: Home to the sacred Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong temple and a gateway to Doi Inthanon National Park.
Fang: Known for its hot springs, beautiful orchards, and the scenic Fang Valley surrounded by mountains.
San Pa Tong: A charming town offering traditional handicrafts, local markets, and cultural festivals.
Tha Ton: A picturesque riverside village, starting point for boat trips down the Kok River to Chiang Rai, and close to Wat Tha Ton temple.

National Parks

Doi Inthanon National Park: Features Thailand’s highest peak, stunning waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park: Home to the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple and lush forests with scenic viewpoints.
Huai Nam Dang National Park: Known for its picturesque mountain views, hot springs, and vibrant flower gardens.
Ob Luang National Park: Features a dramatic canyon, ancient rock paintings, and beautiful hiking trails along the Mae Chaem River.
Si Lanna National Park: Offers tranquil reservoirs, dense forests, and opportunities for boating, fishing, and bird watching.

Orientation

Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, is known for its ancient temples, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife. Major attractions include the Old City, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and the Night Bazaar, making it a hub for history, shopping, and entertainment.
Doi Inthanon National Park: Doi Inthanon National Park features Thailand’s highest peak, stunning waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can hike to the summit, explore the beautiful twin pagodas, and enjoy bird watching and photography.
Mae Sa Valley: Mae Sa Valley is a popular destination for its lush landscapes, waterfalls, and adventure activities. Attractions include the Mae Sa Elephant Camp, orchid farms, and botanical gardens, making it ideal for family outings and nature lovers.
Ban Tawai: Ban Tawai is renowned as Thailand’s premier handicraft village, offering a vast array of handmade items, including furniture, carvings, and home decor. Tourists visit Ban Tawai for its unique shopping experience and to witness artisans at work, creating intricate crafts.
Chiang Dao: Chiang Dao is famous for its limestone caves, serene hot springs, and the impressive Doi Chiang Dao mountain. Visitors can explore the extensive cave system, enjoy the tranquility of natural hot springs, and trek through lush forests to see diverse wildlife.
Darapirom Palace Museum: Located in Mae Rim, the Darapirom Palace Museum was the residence of Princess Dara Rasmi. It showcases royal artifacts and offers insights into the Lanna royal family’s history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Doi Ang Khang: Doi Ang Khang is known for its picturesque mountain scenery, cool climate, and vibrant flower gardens. Attractions include the Royal Agricultural Station and various trekking routes, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park: Doi Suthep is home to the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple, a significant pilgrimage site with panoramic views of Chiang Mai. The mountain offers lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails, making it a popular destination for both cultural and natural attractions.
Ganesh Himal Museum: The Ganesh Himal Museum in Chiang Mai showcases a unique collection of Ganesha statues from various cultures and eras. It is a fascinating destination for those interested in Hindu mythology and art.
Handicraft Highway: The Handicraft Highway, stretching between Chiang Mai and San Kamphaeng, is lined with workshops and stores selling traditional Thai crafts, including silk, silverware, and ceramics. It’s a great place for tourists to shop and learn about local craftsmanship.
Mae Chaem: Mae Chaem is a tranquil district known for its traditional way of life, rice terraces, and proximity to Doi Inthanon National Park. Visitors can explore local markets, visit traditional weaving villages, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.
Si Lanna National Park: Si Lanna National Park offers tranquil reservoirs, dense forests, and opportunities for boating, fishing, and bird watching. Visitors can explore the Mae Ngat Dam and enjoy the serene natural environment.
The Samoeng Loop: The Samoeng Loop is a scenic drive through the mountains of Chiang Mai, offering stunning views, charming villages, and attractions like the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden and Mae Sa Waterfall. It’s perfect for a day trip or a leisurely drive.
Chom Thong: Chom Thong is a gateway to Doi Inthanon National Park and home to the revered Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong temple. Tourists visit Chom Thong to explore the national park’s natural beauty and experience the cultural significance of the temple.
Fang: Fang is known for its hot springs, beautiful orchards, and the scenic Fang Valley. Visitors can relax in the hot springs, explore local markets, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes surrounding the town.
Huai Nam Dang National Park: Huai Nam Dang National Park is known for its picturesque mountain views, hot springs, and vibrant flower gardens. Visitors can enjoy trekking, camping, and soaking in the hot springs while taking in the natural beauty of the park.
Huay Teung Tao Reservoir: Huay Teung Tao Reservoir, located near Chiang Mai, offers a peaceful retreat with scenic views, picnic spots, and bamboo huts along the water’s edge. It’s perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying local food from nearby vendors.
Ob Luang National Park: Ob Luang National Park features a dramatic canyon, ancient rock paintings, and beautiful hiking trails along the Mae Chaem River. It’s a great destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in historical sites.
San Pa Thong: San Pa Thong is a charming town offering traditional handicrafts, local markets, and cultural festivals. It’s known for its serene countryside and the production of traditional Lanna musical instruments.
Tha Ton: Tha Ton is a picturesque riverside village, the starting point for boat trips down the Kok River to Chiang Rai, and close to Wat Tha Ton temple. It’s known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance.