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Hello! 👋
During our stay in Chiang Mai, we managed to check out a bunch of interesting places – from well-known spots to those slightly off the typical tourist radar. Our trip took place in March 2025, though I had actually been here once before, back in 2022. This time, it was about showing Jadzia some of the places I already knew, but also discovering a few new ones together.
We mixed business with pleasure on this trip – spent a few days working remotely, and in our free time, we headed out to explore. We got around both on foot and by car, which let us reach all sorts of corners of Chiang Mai, from central neighborhoods to spots a bit further out.
If you’d like to read our full summary of our time in Chiang Mai, 👉 check it out here. And if you’re curious about what we were up to before that, our trip actually started in Phuket – 👉 you can read all about it here.
One Nimman
We were staying nearby, so naturally we ended up here a few times – and honestly, it’s a really cool spot. One Nimman is a stylish shopping and cultural center that has a slightly different vibe compared to the rest of Chiang Mai. Designed to resemble European-style arcades, with brick architecture and cozy courtyards, it’s the kind of place where you can grab a nice meal or just enjoy a relaxed stroll.
Inside, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafés, and little shops selling handmade goods and local products. In the evening, the atmosphere gets even nicer – decorative lights come on, and every now and then you might stumble upon a live concert or some small event. Even if you’re not in the mood for shopping, it’s a lovely place to swing by and soak up the vibe for a bit.
👉 For more information, visit the official website.
Wat Suan Dok
You could say Chiang Mai is practically built on temples – there are just so many of them everywhere. Wat Suan Dok was one of the spots we wanted to check out, but we happened to visit while the main stupa was under renovation. Some of the decorative elements around the grounds also looked a bit worn down, so overall, it didn’t quite have the same wow factor as in the photos we’d seen beforehand.
Still, the temple has a really unique atmosphere. There’s a cluster of striking white stupas on the grounds, where the ashes of former members of the royal family are kept. Even with the ongoing renovation work, the place still leaves an impression – and once the main stupa is fully restored, it’ll no doubt look even more impressive. If you’re visiting Chiang Mai, it’s a spot worth keeping on your radar – ideally once the restoration’s complete.
👉 For more information, visit the fanpage.
Suan Dok Gate
This is one of the gates that used to be part of the old defensive wall surrounding Chiang Mai’s Old City. It’s a piece of the city’s history, no doubt, but looking at its current condition, it kind of feels like it could use some proper restoration. You could imagine it being brought back to life in a similar way to how Warsaw’s Old Town was rebuilt – something that would better reflect the original character of the place.
Still, it’s worth swinging by to catch a glimpse of the old city fortifications and get a small taste of Chiang Mai’s history. It’s not the kind of attraction that’ll blow you away, but if you’re already walking around the area, it’s a nice little stop to pause for a moment and take it in.
Wat Lok Moli
While walking around Chiang Mai, it’s easy to come across Wat Lok Moli – a temple that stands out with its beautiful wooden architecture and old brick stupa. It’s not as famous as some of the city’s other temples, but that’s actually a plus. You can take your time exploring without having to weave through crowds of tourists.
The place has a cozy, intimate atmosphere, and the architectural details really catch your eye.
Wat Umong
Entrance here costs just a few baht, but you’ll need cash, as card payments aren’t accepted. Wat Umong is one of the more unique spots in Chiang Mai – a temple hidden in the forest, with distinctive tunnels and a stupa on the hill. The atmosphere is peaceful, a bit different from the temples in the city center, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
But it’s not just the architecture that draws attention. The temple grounds are also home to a number of chickens, which, to be honest, I found more interesting than the temple itself! If you’re into that kind of vibe, Wat Umong can be a fun and quirky stop on your sightseeing route.
👉 For more information, visit the official website.
Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan
Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan is one of the most important and iconic temples in Chiang Mai, located right in the heart of the Old City. Known for its richly decorated Lanna-style architecture, it’s a perfect example of traditional Thai sacred craftsmanship. The temple’s greatest treasure is the Phra Singh Buddha statue, considered one of the most valuable in northern Thailand and a focal point of deep religious reverence.
The entire complex is well-maintained, which highlights its significance as one of the key pilgrimage and tourist spots in the city. Unlike some lesser-known temples, every detail here is meticulously crafted – from the gilded facades to the intricate wooden carvings. Wat Phra Singh serves not only a religious purpose but also an educational one, as it frequently hosts discussions with monks, meditation sessions, and Buddhist ceremonies. It’s a place where you can learn, reflect, and connect with the local spiritual practices.
In addition to its architectural beauty, this temple offers a genuine spiritual atmosphere, especially during the afternoon prayers and ceremonies.
Watchediluang Varaviharn
Did we mention that Chiang Mai is absolutely packed with temples? Here’s another one! Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most impressive and recognizable temples in the city. Its main feature is the massive, partially ruined stupa, which was once the tallest structure in Chiang Mai. Although an earthquake caused significant damage to it centuries ago, it still leaves a strong impression with its sheer scale and historical significance.
The entire complex is quite spacious and filled with fascinating details – from golden buildings to massive elephant statues. During the day, it can get pretty busy with tourists, but the scale and beauty of the place still make it worth a visit.
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
It’s one of those places that might catch your interest, but probably won’t blow you away. The museum is housed in a charming colonial-style building from 1927, right in the heart of the Old City. It focuses on the history of Chiang Mai and the former Lanna Kingdom, offering a deeper look into the region’s past.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of exhibits, photos, and interactive displays that show how the city has developed over the centuries. It’s not a museum that will stick with you for long, but if you’re interested in learning more about the region’s history, it’s a worthwhile stop. Compared to museums we’ve seen in places like the Middle East, it’s not exactly grand in scale, but it has a unique, local vibe. If you’re looking for a quieter moment between more intense sightseeing, this is a good place to pop in for a while.
👉 For more information, visit the official website.
Wat Tha Mai
I have to admit – this is one of the most colorful places we saw in Chiang Mai. The temple is full of golden and bright decorations, giving it a unique character. Compared to other temples in the city, it has a more modern style, but there are still plenty of traditional Thai elements mixed in, creating a nice balance of the old and the new.
The place catches your eye with its richly decorated sculptures and intricate details, and it looks absolutely stunning, especially in the sunlight. If you’re into temples that stray a bit from the usual ruins and old stupas, Wat Tha Mai could be an interesting stop to visit. It offers a fresh take on the typical temple experience and is definitely worth checking out.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
It’s hard to point to just one place because, in reality, the whole area around Changklan Road transforms into a buzzing night market after dark. Here, you’ll find stalls, shops, street artists, and dozens of cafés and bars where you can sit down and soak up the vibe of the city as it comes alive at night.
When it comes to food, the main spot is Phaploen Market, where you can try local street food – from pad thai to grilled seafood. But honestly, just walking down the street, you’ll stumble upon a ton of places offering food, souvenirs, and classic market trinkets. It’s a food lover’s paradise, and the variety makes it easy to find something delicious at every corner.
And since it’s evening at the market, of course, you need a drink. A Chang beer? Sure, just one! It might not be the most impressive beer compared to craft brews, but on a warm evening in Chiang Mai – it hits the spot perfectly.
Doi Pui View Point
If you’re into stunning views, Doi Pui View Point is definitely a must-see. The panoramic view of the mountains and forests, with a light mist hovering over the valley – it’s a place that really takes your breath away.
The road to the top is winding and can be a challenge for those prone to motion sickness, as the twists and turns seem endless both uphill and downhill. You can easily reach the summit by car or scooter, but if you’re not experienced in riding in mountainous conditions, it’s best not to take the risk. We saw a few people along the way who were clearly losing control of their vehicles – and with the nature of the road, that can end quite badly.
On the way to the viewpoint, you can also stop by Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, but we decided to skip it – at some point, we’d seen enough temples. However, if you still have the energy for more sightseeing, it’s definitely worth considering a quick stop there.
Buatong Waterfall
It’s one of those spots worth taking a short trip to outside of Chiang Mai. Bua Thong Waterfall, also known as the Sticky Waterfall, is a bit of a drive from the city, so having your own transport is definitely the best option – a car works perfectly.
What makes this place special? The water flows over limestone rocks with a unique, rough surface, which means you can actually walk on them without slipping. It’s like climbing a natural wall, but without the need for any special gear. The waterfall itself isn’t massive, but combined with the lush greenery around it, it creates a really nice, relaxed atmosphere.
If you’re looking for something a bit different from the temples and markets in Chiang Mai, Bua Thong Waterfall is a great spot for a few hours out of the city.
Royal Park Rajapruek
It’s one of those places where peace and quiet immediately stand out – really calm and not many people, which is a rarity in Chiang Mai. Royal Park Rajapruek is a huge botanical garden with beautifully designed pathways, pavilions, and an impressive collection of plants from all over the world.
The main attraction here is Ho Kham Luang, a traditional Thai pavilion surrounded by gardens, looking like it’s straight out of a postcard. Aside from that, there’s plenty of greenery, ponds, and floral arrangements, creating a beautiful atmosphere. It’s a perfect place for anyone who enjoys strolling through peaceful spots and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
If you’re looking for a moment of peace and a quiet spot for a walk, Royal Park Rajapruek is the perfect place.
Doi Inthanon
If you’re planning a trip to Doi Inthanon, it’s a good idea to fill up your car before heading out. The road to Thailand’s highest peak, standing at 2,565 meters above sea level, has plenty of steep climbs, and a mid-range car can burn through more fuel than you’d expect.
The route takes you through the scenic landscapes of Doi Inthanon National Park, with dense forests and stunning waterfalls along the way. The higher you go, the cooler it gets – and you’ll definitely notice the temperature drop compared to Chiang Mai, especially in the mornings or late afternoons.
Summary
Chiang Mai is a place where you can spend a lot of time and still feel like you haven’t seen everything. If you have a car, you can explore even more – drive around the surrounding areas or even take a trip to Chiang Rai.
The roads? Well, they could be better. There are some roadworks, but nothing too drastic. You just need to be careful on the mountain roads – we saw a few tourists who might have overestimated their scooter skills.
Did we see everything? No, but that’s actually a good thing – it gives us a reason to come back. We don’t regret our stay at all – it was intense, delicious, and at times, truly atmospheric. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth visiting Chiang Mai, the answer is simple: absolutely.
