Thailand has something for every taste, from the exquisite beaches in the south to the highland forests in the north. Thailand’s dynamic capital is Bangkok, but Chiang Mai, located in the north, is the center of innovation and culture. With countless things to do in Chiang Mai, explore a national park like Doi Inthanon or Doi Suthep-Pui, or take in some of Chiang Mai’s top attractions, like the sacred sites of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Chedi Luang. Enjoy the bustling bazaar and street cuisine of Chiang Mai’s old city, unwind with a Thai massage or meditative practices, or even plan a day excursion to nearby Chiang Rai or some of Thailand’s most breathtaking scenery.
The Best 5 Things to Do in Chiang Mai:
1. Go to Elephant Nature Park:
Regrettably, Thailand has a track record of mistreating animals and increasing traveler spending. Avoid doing anything contributing to this cruelty, such as mounting an elephant or seeing the relaxed tigers in many temples. However, a sanctuary in Chiang Mai Thai is dedicated to rehab and education. Elephants mistreated for decades by the travel industry are now being rescued at this park. Here, you can volunteer to assist with shelter maintenance. The emphasis is on caring for and safeguarding these elephants rather than riding over them, which is illegal.
2. Visit the Buddhist Temples:
Most majestic Buddhist temples, or “wats,” in Chiang Mai are open to tourists. Although Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is undoubtedly the most amazing, other lovely ones in the city are worth seeing, even if you are not religious. Attending a monk conversation is one of the extraordinary things to do in Chiang Mai. You can visit a monastery and talk with the monks about Buddhism, life in the shrines, or any other matter you can think of. It benefits both since they are frequently eager to practice their English. Check the schedule of the regular monk interactions by examining the posters hung around the monasteries.
3. Spend time with Locals:
The friendly and giving culture of the Thai people is something we have always valued, even after spending months traveling through Thailand on foot. Trekking and participating in a Thai cooking class are just two of the many things you can do in Chiang Mai Thai with local people. A Thai cooking class with natives will become your favorite memory.
4. Explore the Walking Street Markets on Sundays:
One of the most favored attractions in Chiang Mai is the nighttime street markets. It’s an enjoyable night out, and locals and visitors can be seen strolling around, taking in the goods on sale, and generally having fun. It is the spot to go if you want to purchase souvenirs or mementos. Everything from classic to modern can be found here at highly competitive pricing. From conventional to contemporary, you may find anything you are looking for here at excellent prices. Alternatively, you can practically fill yourself crazy with the fantastic local cuisine spread all over the shops and foot massages, among the best things to do in Chiang Mai on Sunday night.
5. Go to the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs:
These are best for their healing and soothing properties, providing guests with a refreshing experience in peaceful surroundings. While taking in the lovely environment of tropical gardens, visitors can submerge themselves in several heated mineral pools.
Various things to do in Chiang Mai provide diverse situations. Those are including tours to moral elephant habitats and learning about culture through encounters with locals and temples. Discovering its lively marketplaces and excellent hot springs enriches any travel schedule. Take in the graciousness of the Thai people and depart this fascinating city with treasured memories.