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Visitors can explore numerous places for a Chiang Mai trip. The city of Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand is renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural surroundings. Chiang Mai is also known as the “Rose of the North”, and is recognised for its exciting activities including trekking, cultural festivals, and purchasing handmade goods. The city offers visitors a comprehensive look into local customs and festivities such as Songkran (Thai New Year) and Yi Peng (Lantern Festival).
Top 10 Places To Visit Chiang Mai
Nestled amidst lush mountains, these places to visit in Chiang Mai offer a blend of ancient temples and bustling markets. Here are some tourist attractions in Chiang Mai:
1. Chiang Mai Zoo
Photo: กสิณธร ราชโอรส / Wikimedia Commons
The expansive, pristine Chiang Mai Zoo is situated at the foot of Doi Suthep Mountain. In spacious enclosures designed for the giraffes and elephants, the zoo offers visitors a close-up look at these incredible animals. The giant panda exhibit at the zoo features pandas imported from China and is one of its main attractions. This is a unique opportunity to see these endangered species in Thailand. The aquarium at the Chiang Mai Zoo displays a diverse array of aquatic animals, providing an exciting experience for visitors to places to visit in Chiang Mai.
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2. The Tiger Kingdom
The popular Tiger Kingdom allows visitors to enjoy interactions with tigers and other exotic animals. The main attraction is the opportunity to get up close and personal with tigers of all ages, from cubs to adults. Trained professionals guide visitors and offer opportunities to take photos with these amazing animals. The kingdom also shelters other exotic creatures including elephants, lions, and leopards. Though the main attraction is interacting with tigers, this tourist hotspot occasionally hosts animal shows and demonstrations.
3. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Photo: Kittipong Khunnen / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best places to visit in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is located on Doi Suthep mountain. It is one of Chiang Mai’s most revered temples. The temple’s golden chedi, or stupa, is the main attraction and a stunning example of Lanna architecture. The temple offers magnificent views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding area. The relics of the Buddha are preserved in the temple and are highly esteemed by both locals and visitors.
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4. Doi Inthanon National Park
Photo: Z3144228 / Wikimedia Commons
Doi Inthanon National Park features Doi Inthanon, the highest peak in Thailand, diverse wildlife, and a variety of ecosystems. The park features two striking pagodas, dedicated to the King and Queen of Thailand, offering exquisitely maintained gardens and stunning views. The park is well known for the Mae Ya and Wachirathan waterfalls. Numerous nature trails can be explored by visitors, such as the Ang Ka Nature Trail, which winds through a moss-covered woodland.
5. Wat Chedi Luang
Photo: JJ Harrison / Wikimedia Commons
The historic temple Wat Chedi Luang is located in the centre of Chiang Mai’s Old City. The temple is well-known for its enormous chedi, which was once the tallest building in Chiang Mai. Even though it is partially destroyed, it remains a striking sight. The temple constructed in the fourteenth century served as a royal sanctuary during the Lanna Kingdom. The temple organises various religious and cultural events throughout the year.
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6. Chang Puak Gate Night Market
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The lively Chang Puak Gate Night Market is located near one of the ancient gates of Chiang Mai’s Old City. The market offers a variety of street food including local favorites like mango sticky rice, curry noodles, and khao soi. Moreover, shoppers can explore booths selling traditional Thai apparel, trinkets, and handicrafts. The market features a variety of products, including wood carvings, perfumes, sketch artists, ornaments made of wood, and more.
7. Wat Phra Singh
Photo: Kokunut555 / Wikimedia Commons
Wat Phra Singh temple is located in the Old City, It is one of the most significant temples in Chiang Mai. The temple is devoted to the Phra Buddha Singh Statue, which serves as a centre of devotion and rituals. The temple has exquisitely carved wooden buildings and colourful murals that showcase the Lanna architectural style. Explore the grounds of the temple, including the ordination hall (Ubosot) and the main hall (Viharn).
Things To Do: Admire the architecture, photography, observe rituals
How To Reach: Tuk- Tuk
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8. Bo Sang Umbrella Village
Photo: Grossbildjaeger / Wikimedia Commons
Bo Sang Umbrella Village is situated just outside of Chiang Mai. The community is renowned for its intricately painted and adorned handmade paper umbrellas. You can watch artists in action, and learn about the time-honoured methods used to create these exquisite items. Explore the wide selection of handcrafted umbrellas and other crafts, ideal for souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in exhibitions to gain insight into the handicrafts and customs of the region.
9. Wat Umong
Photo: Rattasat / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Wat Umong is a temple located in the jungle of Suthep-Pui National Park. Wat Umong temple complex is known for its calm aura. The historic tunnels within the temple were used by monks as places for meditation. Visitors can explore these serene hallways, admire the stunning stupa, and take in the peaceful surroundings. Wat Umong offers a serene and meditative experience, making it an ideal escape from the bustle of the city.
Things To Do: Admire the architecture, meditation, observe rituals
How To Reach: Bus, Car
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10. Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden
Photo: Amada44 / Wikimedia Commons
The Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden is the first botanical garden in Thailand to meet international standards. It is situated in Chiang Mai’s Mae Rim district. It was named after Her Majesty Queen Sirikit in 1992. It is dedicated to conserving, studying, and propagating Thailand’s rich plant diversity. Chiang Mai also has a glasshouse complex consisting of several interconnected glasshouses showcasing a wide variety of plants. The canopy walkway provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forest canopy, allowing visitors to walk among the treetops.
Chiang Mai is a captivating city that combines picturesque scenery, rich cultural history, and a lively local community. There is something for every traveller for places to visit in Chiang Mai, from the calm Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to the lively Chang Puak Gate Night Market. Travellers interested in history, culture, nature, or contemporary pleasures can find a lot to enjoy in Chiang Mai. Book your trip with TripXL and embrace the adventure.
Cover Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
