Few foreign visitors to Chiang Mai consider a trip to the city’s zoo, but for a fun day out, particularly if you’re traveling with kids, it’s difficult to beat.

It covers a huge area to the west of the city at the base of Doi Suthep, and you can get around either on a tram or monorail. The entrance fee of 100B (50B for kids) is very reasonable, though you’ll need to pay extra for parking, getting around, and certain attractions such as the giant pandas, aquarium and snowdome.

From its humble beginnings of a collection of pets belonging to a missionary, the zoo has expanded rapidly and now includes such diverse creatures as koala bears, penguins, flamingoes, camels and elephants. There’s no doubt that the most popular attraction is the panda enclosure (100B for adults; 50B for kids); there’s even a 24-hour TV station following their actions. The aquarium has the longest underwater viewing tunnel in Asia but will cost you an extra 520B (390B for kids).

A visit here could easily occupy you for half a day or even a full day, and if you consider going, it’s worth checking out their website for the times of free animal shows. There are several cafes and refreshment kiosks within the zoo’s grounds where you can take a break from all the fun.

Take a songthaew or tuk-tuk from Chiang Mai city center (15 minutes), or drive west along Huay Kaew Road to the base of the mountain, then turn left into the zoo.

  • What is it? A well-organized zoo featuring many exotic animals.
  • Opening hours: 08:00-18:00 daily.
  • Entrance fees: Adults 100 baht, kids 50B.
  • Website: www.chiangmaizoo.com
  • Where: west of the city center at the base of Doi Suthep.