Top Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai remains a popular destination for travellers interested in northern Thai culture. Less frenetic than Bangkok and many of Thailand’s beach destinations, the “New City” is steeped in Lanna heritage while continuing to modernise. Read on to find out how you can experience the best of both worlds in this, the largest metropolis in the northern reaches of Thailand.

1. Scale the cliffs of the Doi Inthanon National Park

Rising 2,565 metres above sea level, Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand. Situated approximately 60 kilometres outside Chiang Mai, the “Roof of Thailand” is a treat for nature lovers, with waterfalls, forest trails, viewpoints and a wide variety of birdlife.

You do not need to scale a cliff to reach the summit, as the main attractions are accessible by road. However, individual nature trails may have seasonal operating periods or require a local guide, so check the latest access conditions before visiting.

2. Observe elephants responsibly

Image credit: Beyond Neon

Elephant riding has become a contentious and often boycotted activity, and for good reason. Bathing elephants is no longer considered a reliably ethical alternative, as it may still involve forcing the animals to interact with groups of visitors.

Choose a sanctuary that does not offer rides, performances, forced bathing or staged photo opportunities. Instead, visitors should observe the elephants behaving naturally and allow them to enter the water on their own.

The Elephant Nature Park, situated about an hour out of Chiang Mai city centre, is an established rescue and rehabilitation centre. Its current programmes focus on observing and learning about the elephants, rather than allowing visitors to bathe with them.

3. Take in the Chiang Mai nightlife from a rooftop bar

Chiang Mai’s nightlife tends to be more relaxed than Bangkok’s, but there are still plenty of places to enjoy a drink with a view. Operating hours vary between venues, so check the latest schedule rather than assuming every bar stays open late.

Current options include Rise Rooftop Bar at Akyra Manor and MAI The Sky Bar at Meliá Chiang Mai, which overlooks the city, Ping River and Doi Suthep from the 22nd floor.

4. Stretch it out with some Thai yoga

If you’re an avid yogi, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Chiang Mai. There are numerous yoga studios throughout the city which cater to all levels.

Community-led free yoga classes are also held at Nong Buak Hard Public Park. However, the schedule can change according to the season and availability of volunteer teachers, so check the Yoga in the Park community page before turning up.

5. Limber up courtesy of an authentic Thai massage

Not quite up for yoga but still want to soothe those sore muscles? An authentic Thai massage might be your next best bet.

For a more meaningful experience, visit Naree Thai Massage & Spa, operated through the Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institution Vocational Training Centre. The programme allows participating women to receive professional massage training and develop skills that may support their reintegration after release.

The centre can become busy, so arrive early or check whether appointments are available. Otherwise, you will find numerous massage outlets throughout the city offering traditional Thai and foot massages.

6. Mix it up with some Muay Thai

Given that Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand, it’s no surprise that the nation is fanatical about this martial art.

Rather than simply being a “blood sport”, Muay Thai is a long-established combat tradition involving specialised techniques, rituals and considerable athletic discipline.

You can regularly see live showdowns at popular venues like the Thapae Boxing Stadium and Kalare Boxing Stadium. Fight nights and participating venues vary throughout the week, so confirm the schedule and book your preferred seating in advance.

7. Chow down on Khao Soi

Mention Thai cuisine and very often names like Pad Thai, Khao Pad and Tom Yum soup come to mind.

Khao soi, however, is a signature dish of northern Thailand shaped by the region’s cross-border culinary influences. It usually combines soft egg noodles and meat in a rich coconut curry broth, topped with crispy noodles and served with lime, shallots and pickled mustard greens.

You will find it at street stalls and restaurants across Chiang Mai, with chicken and beef among the most common versions.

8. Cliff jump at Chiang Mai’s Grand Canyon

Image credit: Annika Thielemann

Although nowhere near the scale of the original Grand Canyon, Chiang Mai’s “Grand Canyon” still delivers plenty of thrills. The former quarry has been developed into Grand Canyon Water Park, with a floating obstacle course, slides, ziplining, kayaking and wakeboarding among its available activities.

Life jackets are provided and required in selected areas. Follow the instructions given by the park’s lifeguards and use only the designated platforms rather than attempting unsupervised jumps from the surrounding quarry walls.

9. Barter your way to some bargains at the night bazaar

Image credit: mythailand.blog

Chang Khlan Road transforms from regular thoroughfare in the day to Chiang Mai’s premier bazaar in the evening.

Browse the hundreds of vendors that line the streets and find trinkets that take your fancy at this all-year-round market. You can also shop for clothing and handicrafts or stop for street food while exploring the surrounding Night Bazaar area.

Polite bargaining may be acceptable at some independent stalls, but respect fixed prices when they are clearly displayed.

10. Unwind at the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs

Image credit: Shagshag

The San Kamphaeng Hot Springs are around 40 kilometres from central Chiang Mai and generally take approximately one hour to reach, depending on traffic. The landscaped grounds contain mineral-water foot baths, pools and private bathing facilities, as well as two geysers that send hot water high into the air.

Rather than relying on claims about medical healing properties, visit for the relaxing setting and the experience of soaking in the warm, mineral-rich water.

One of the more quirky activities to do here is buy a basket of eggs and boil them in the designated hot spring pools before enjoying them as a snack.