day trips chiang mai

The 5 best day trips from Chiang Mai

Nov 27, 2023 • 6 min read

Grab a friend and head out on these day trips to explore more of this incredible region © 500px Prime/ Getty Images

Though Chiang Mai has a wealth of attractions to keep visitors busy for days on end, the city’s appeal as a travel destination is enhanced by its location. The "Rose of the North" is situated amidst jungle-blanketed hills and rolling rice fields, where cottage craft industries still thrive and distinct temples dazzle. It’s a world crying out to be explored.

From lakeside pampering in Huay Teung Tao to hilltop hiking around Doi Inthanon, here are five of the best day trips from Chiang Mai .

1. Watch the sunrise at Doi Inthanon, Thailand's best-known national park

Travel time: 2 hours

Taking its name from Thailand ’s tallest peak at 8415ft (2565m),  Doi Inthanon National Park is one of the country's best-known national parks, covering more than 185 sq miles (480 sq km) and home to numerous waterfalls, hiking trails, viewpoints, hill tribe villages and bird species.

It’s kind of a big deal, particularly during the country’s cold season from November through January when temperatures drop at the higher elevations and sometimes even frost appears – a phenomenon that attracts Thai visitors used to sweltering tropical weather. Sometimes it even makes the news.

Doi Inthanon is also one of the few national parks in Thailand that’s easy to drive through, with smooth roads connecting key sites and attractions such as the Kaew Mae Pan Nature Trail. This short but spectacular trail, which requires the help of a local guide (and supplied bamboo hiking sticks), winds through a section of the park’s best landscapes to beautiful viewpoints overlooking the surrounding valleys.

Many people explore Doi Inthanon as a day trip, either on their own or through an organized tour, but you can also stay in basic bungalow accommodations or camp on the mountain overnight to wake up above the clouds.

How to get to Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai: A full-day taxi service including the return journey and different stops around the park, costs around 3000B (around $95). A cheaper option is to hop in a shared songthaew (passenger van) heading in the direction of the park.

2. Graze on delicious Thai food overlooking Huay Teung Tao

Travel time: 30-45 mins

Technically a man-made reservoir, tranquil Huay Teung Tao  is a local haunt for whiling the day away in simple bamboo huts right on the water. It’s particularly popular with families and groups of friends over the weekends and public holidays.

In recent years, there’s been an increase in activities offered around the reservoir, such as ATV riding or paddle boarding, but settling into one of the huts for an afternoon of grazing on local Thai fare and bottles of beer is still the favorite way to "do" Huay Teung Tao. Each hut is tied to a different restaurant, which all offer similar menus, quality and pricing – simply pick a spot, order some food or drinks, and stay as long as you like.

How to get to Huay Teung Tao from Chiang Mai: Just 9 miles (14km) away from the center of Chiang Mai’s old city, along the 121 or "Canal Road," Huay Teung Tao is quick and convenient to get to in a songthaew , by calling a car with the Grab ride-sharing app or with your own set of wheels.

3. Visit traditional artisans in the villages of Bo Sang and San Khampaeng

Travel time: 1.5 hours for both

Chiang Mai has long been a handicrafts hub, known for its experts in the disciplines of wood carving, silversmithing, weaving and more. Today, skilled artisans still practice many of these traditional arts and crafts and, as a result, you can find many unique, handmade souvenirs for purchase around the city and in its myriad markets, from baskets and furniture to jewelry and ceramics.

But for the optimum choice of authentic souvenirs, head east out of town on Highway 1006, also known as the "handicraft highway," to reach the small villages of Bo Sang and San Khampaeng. While Bo Sang serves as a center for umbrella and paper-making, San Khampaeng specializes in textile and ceramic items. Many workshops and showrooms are on the main road or marked with signs pointing the way.

For a contrasting look at Thailand’s art and handicrafts, stop by the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum , just a couple of miles from Bo Sang, to take in exhibitions showcasing contemporary Thai artists. Alternatively, if furniture and home decor are more to your taste, go south of Chiang Mai city toward Hang Dong to the woodcarving village of  Ban Tawai .

How to get to Bo Sang and San Khampaeng from Chiang Mai: White songthaews depart for Bo Sang from near Warorot Market in Chiang Mai. Otherwise, taxis and Grab cars are readily available, which are also the best option for reaching Ban Tawai.

4. Photograph the incredible White Temple and Black House

Travel time: 3.5 hours for both

Though a little taxing as a day trip, if you have limited time and won’t make it to neighboring Chiang Rai Province  as part of your travels in Thailand, it is possible to see two of the region’s most beloved sites – Wat Rong Khun and Baandam – in one day from Chiang Mai.

Commonly known in English as the White Temple (though it is not actually a place of worship), Wat Rong Khun was the brainchild of contemporary Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Quirky is perhaps the best way to describe the glittering white complex, with visitors having to walk past a sea of yearning arms (symbolizing desire) to reach the temple’s interior, where trippy murals that include images of actor Keanu Reeves and Superman adorn the walls.

Nearby, Baandam, meaning "Black House," is another otherworldly creation, this time from the mind of Chiang Rai-born artist Thawan Duchanee. Unlike the sparkling Wat Rong Khun, Baandam’s sprawling collection of structures, sculptures and gardens feature dark teak wood, dead animal parts and macabre arrangements. Both white and black complexes will likely live long in the memory – or potentially nightmares – of visitors.

How to get to the White Temple and Black House from Chiang Mai: Rent a car to do the journey or look for one of several package tours to the temples that will likely pick you up from your hotel by 8am and return to Chiang Mai in the evening around 8pm. If you want to go it alone, inexpensive buses run regularly from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. 

5. Do the Samoeng Loop on a motorbike tour

Travel time: 2.5 hours

You can’t visit Chiang Mai without getting out into its surrounding hills. For those comfortable on two wheels, the 62-mile-long (100km) 'Samoeng Loop' is a hit with locals and tourists alike, especially on the weekends and in the dry, cooler season.

Driving straight through will take you around 2.5 hours. However, throughout the route there are plenty of places to stop off, including the Nam Tok Mae Sa , a scenic – though sometimes busy – tiered waterfall that’s good for swimming, and Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens , a huge, manicured green space bursting with exotic flowers, so plan for four hours or more. Though you could do the loop with a car and driver, it’s the journey itself – experiencing the air rushing by your face and taking in 360-degree views – that’s the drive’s main draw.

Scooter rentals are available from a number of operators in Chiang Mai or consider an organized motorcycle tour around the loop.

How to get to the Samoeng Loop from Chiang Mai:  Start by driving north out of town on Highway 107 to Mae Rim and then turn left onto Highway 1096. This will take you climbing up into the hills, passing small rustic restaurants, strawberry fields, Royal Project agriculture initiatives, and views of the valley before reaching the small village of Samoeng. Turn left onto Highway 1296 to start looping back towards Chiang Mai.

This article was first published September 2019 and updated November 2023

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Chiang Mai

Day trips from chiang mai.

• Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
• Chiang Mai to Chom Thong
• Chiang Mai to Mae Taeng
• Chiang Mai to Chiang Saen
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 3-in-1: Doi Inthanon Tour, Elephant Sanctuary, and Trekking Trail

2. Doi Inthanon National Park, Waterfall and Royal Project Tour

3. Chiang Rai Temples: Private Tour from Chiang Mai

4. Chiang Rai White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House from Chiang Mai

5. Care Pride Elephants: Full-Day Tour Experience

6. Doi Inthanon National Park 1-Day Tour with Nature Trail Trekking

7. Best Places in Chiang Rai White, Blue, Big Buddha, Tea Plantation

8. Chiang Rai Day Tour from Chiang Mai + The Long Neck Hill Tribe With Boat

9. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Small-Group Sunrise Tour

10. Doi Inthanon Private Tour with Trek & Lunch from Chiang Mai

11. Chiang Rai Tour White Temple Golden Triangle Boat Ride to Laos

12. Full day car hire with private English speaking driver

13. Top Pick - Full or Half Day @Elephant in Wild Sanctuary ChiangMai

14. Chiang Mai - Doi Inthanon Full day Tour

15. The Best Full Day Tour: Doi Suthep, Wat Phalat, Sticky Waterfall

16. 6-Hour Hike and Bike in Doi Suthep Pui National Park Combo from Chiang Mai

17. Chiang Rai Full Day Tour includes Boat Trip and Longneck Village From Chiang Mai

18. Chiang Rai Day Trip from Chiang Mai City with Golden Triangle

19. Explore Doi Inthanon National Park: Full Day Tour w/ Hotel Pickup

20. Doi Inthanon National Park Tour with 2-Hour Fantastic Trekking

21. Chiang Mai Private Tour with Tea Plantation, Karen Village, Doi Suthep

22. Full Day Tour White Temple Black House and Blue Temple with Lunch

23. Chiang Mai Sunset Point, Wat Pha Lat, Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Umong

24. Chiang Rai Famed Temples and Golden Triangle Tour from Chiang Mai

25. Chiang Rai, Golden Triangle and Long Neck Karen

26. Chiang Dao Cave & 5 Hill Tribe villages

27. Private Tour to Doi Inthanon including Twins Pagodas and Hiking

28. Best of Chiang Mai: Private Tour in a Day

29. Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai:White+Black+Blue Temple+Golden Triangle+Boat Trip

30. Doi Suthep National Park Beginner Downhill Bike Ride from Chiang Mai

What travelers are saying.

• Best Seller! Doi Inthanon National Park, Waterfall & Royal Project - Chiang Mai
• 3 Experiences: Doi Inthanon Tour, Elephant Sanctuary, Trekking Trail
• Doi Inthanon National Park + Trekking at a Nature Trail: One Day Tour
• Chiang Rai White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House from Chiang Mai
• Chiang Rai Temples Private Tour from Chiang Mai ( The Original )
• Local Tours Center
• Pong Pong Chiang Mai
• My Day Chiang Mai Tour
• Ruta Tailandia
• Into The Wild Elephant Camp
• Elephant Pride Sanctuary
• Elephants At Home
• Bamboo Elephant Family Care
• Touring Center
• Baanchang Elephant Park
• Chiang Mai Driving Tours
• Chiang Mai Foodie Tours
• Thailand Hilltribe Holidays Private Tours
• Abuja Trekking

Hidden Thailand: 8 Amazing Day Trips From Chiang Mai

02/04/2018 by Kristin Addis 12 Comments

After spending a cumulative five months in Thailand over the past few years, sampling the backpacker’s favorites and finding a few places that were just budding on the tourist radar, it felt like time to go back with a different intention. This time, I wanted to go more local and see things that I hadn’t seen all over the internet yet.

Thailand’s north is full of national parks, waterfalls, mountain peaks, and incredible temples. It seems you’d need months to feel like you really saw the best of it, but as it were, I had about a week to road trip around.

After hours of driving Thailand’s lovely roads, seeing things I never knew existed here, these are eight of the best Chiang Mai day trips that you’re not likely to see much info on yet. This is the hidden Thailand that you won’t find all over Instagram yet. Some of these you can take public transport to, and others are much, much easier to drive to either by car or motorbike:

Compare prices and rent your car here!

Table of Contents

Doi Chiang Dao

Doi Luang Chiang Dao is Thailand’s third tallest peak (Doi Inthanon is number one), though the view must be the most beautiful in all of Thailand. Once you get to the top, if it’s a clear day, you’ll see undulating mountain after undulating mountain as far as the eye can see. The rock formations are incredible up there.

Like most of the other spots mentioned in this post, this hike was plenty crowded with Thai people, but hardly any other farangs (foreigners). Each person who passed me would smile, respond warmly, and giggle every time I said ‘sa wat dee ka!’ And those who knew English welcomed me to Thailand and encouraged me as I headed higher up the mountain.

What a contrast to the short hello or curt head nod that’s common in the Alps or Sierras!

This hike is commonly done as a 2 day, one night hike, though it’s possible to leave Chiang Mai very early in the morning to drive the hour and a half up, get to the base, hike up and down in one day, and head back to Chiang Mai for the night, though I’d suggest staying in the area to rest and enjoy the brisk mountain environment afterwards and chill out.

To get there, navigate to the Doi Chiang Dao national park entrance. More here on how to climb it.

Stay: Hot Coffee Guest House

Wat Chaloem

At first glance, it seems like these floating pagodas have to be in Bhutan. Those glowing white and gold structures dotting the sharp mountain peaks look otherworldly, like they could only exist in a movie.

I wondered if it would really be that great in person, and it was! Even better, I saw zero farang there, though it was plenty popular with locals.

The entrance fee is 200 baht and a compulsory 80 baht fee for the truck to bring you up to the steps, which you’ll climb for 500 meters to the top of the mountain. I recommend getting there very early in the morning to see the mist hang in the hills, and to avoid crowds.

To get there, navigate here . It’s about a three hour drive away from Chiang Mai, and can also be combined with the next stop on this list if you want to make it a multi-day adventure. More about the wat here.

Emerald Lake

This sinkhole in the jungle filled with crystal clear blue water reminded me so much of the cenotes in Mexico . It was amazing to see that they exist elsewhere, too.

The pool is yet another attraction that doesn’t seem to be very well known outside of the local visitors, who consider it to be a sacred pool. That means there’s no swimming or fishing allowed, but you are welcome to sit and admire all afternoon, which I did!

It’s a somewhat narrow and in some parts, dirt road to get there. In this case, it’s both the journey and the destination that make this place interesting. More here .

The White Temple in Chiang Rai really is a sight to see. No photo can do it justice – you’ve got to see this in person.

This contemporary style Buddhist temple is unique with its shape, structures, the dazzling white and silver adorning the outside, and the trippy mural on the inside.

If you’re not driving yourself from Chiang Mai, you can take a green bus for under 200 baht. Though this can be booked as part of a tour for closer to $60 and done as a day trip from Chiang Mai, I highly recommend going the day before, staying overnight, and arriving early in the morning so that you’re not sharing it with as many people. It will still be crowded, but it won’t be anything like the crowds that descend on it by midday.

More info here. 

Heading west of Chiang Mai towards Doi Inthanon, there are two popular stops – the Grand Canyon which is popular for swimming, and Pha Chor, this orange canyon.

Doi Inthanon

Doi Inthanon National Park is home to several waterfalls, a nice nature trail, and Thailand’s tallest peak. The park’s most famous features are the King and Queen Pagoda, pictured here. The park also has sakura blooms in mid-to-late January, which are lovely.

The stairs officially close at 5pm to the pagodas, as will the gates that grant entry for 60 baht per person, but you can stay a bit later if you’re already up there. Golden hour is a lovely time to watch as the sun reflects on the golden tops of the pagodas!

Watch the video here:

The park entrance costs 300 baht, plus 30 for a car if you drive yourself in. Leave plenty of time to enjoy the park since it’s big with a lot to see, and a steep entry price to boot. It takes about three hours to reach the top from Chiang Mai.

A car rental for the day will set you back 1000 baht, and a private car with a driver is closer to 3000. There are also tours available but those won’t give you the freedom to stay as late as you like or pick and choose your activities.

Mae Ya Waterfall

The Mae Ya waterfall is also located in Doi Inthanon National Park, though it’s an additional hour of driving round trip to reach it. If you love waterfalls, it’s worth it since this is the tallest and most magnificent one in the park, and it’s a lot less crowded than the other ones will be.

The entrance to the waterfall is the same as the Doi Inthanon National Park ticket, so either buy it here if you head to the waterfall first, or retain the one that you buy at the park to show the rangers at the entrance so that you don’t double pay. Navigate to it here.

Elephant Nature Park

It’s hard to visit Thailand without being tempted by an elephant adventure. However the rumors about riding them are true – it’s bad for the elephant due to the orientation of their spine, and the training methods are abhorrent. If you still want the elephant experience without the guilt, I highly recommend Elephant Nature Park, which is full of rescued elephants with a new lease on life.

Trips range from one day to several, giving you an opportunity to feed and bathe the elephants, and to walk with them, or even volunteer on site. The tours will pick you up from your hotel early in the morning and provide transport and lunch. More on my experience here.

About driving in Thailand

To be honest, I never considered renting a car in Thailand until a friend of mine who recently moved to Chiang Mai did it for a longer road trip up north. At first I thought he was crazy, but once we got out of Chiang Mai the traffic made way for open roads and a relaxed road trip experience. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

The car was a basic Toyota coupe with 4 seats and a roomy enough trunk. It didn’t have a lot of power to it but it still worked on those winding mountain roads and had great fuel economy. It set me back 1000 baht per day plus gas, but it was worth it for the freedom.

One could also rent a motorbike though it’ll take you much longer to get around, however the flipside is it’s cheaper.

I’d also heard that an international driver’s license is necessary to drive in Thailand. Officially this is true, however the rental companies don’t generally ask for proof of it and if you do get pulled over, you’ll be fined 500 baht and can retain the receipt to show the police if you get pulled over again. Apparently the ticket allows you to drive for the next three days. Sounds ridiculous but it’s true. All that said, we never got pulled over.

Those were a few of my favorite day trips from Chiang Mai, some of which are loved by foreigners and locals alike, and some of which I had never seen or heard of before. I only had about five days to explore, but also highly recommend Pai and Mae Hong Song if you’ve got more.

Traveling in Thailand’s more ‘local’ places showed me a side of the country that I fell head over heels in love with. It reminded me of why Thailand is called the Land of Smiles, and showed me that yes, it is possible to see a non-farang side quite easily – you just have to head off the beaten track a little bit.

READ NEXT: The Ideal Route for Backpacking in Thailand

About kristin addis.

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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02/04/2018 at 11:05 am

Hey Kristin: Wow, have a complete itinerary for Thailand for whenever I go (it will be a while, but SE Asia has moved up the list)! Between this and the beach discussion in your “Koh Chang” post, you have it covered. Thanks! Another great video, I like the “following your footsteps” to get the feel of the trail. You and Ashley interact so well (and Pete in the other video, he is so funny). Never drove abroad, always was driven by others or took some alternative, but for this and for going solo seems to make sense so a discussion of international driver’s licenses is so appropriate and useful. People seemed to get confused by it. For those who want to get an international driver’s license, in the U.S. it seems to not be a big deal, I just went on the AAA website https://www.aaa.com/vacation/idpf.html and the application seems simple, $20 and passport photos. Never done it though so don’t know if there is something more to it that is hidden. Also in the U.S. they have AAA “stores” sprouting everywhere. Kristin, do you think AAA is good? We have used it a bit but if you think there is something better let me know!!

This other site is good to know the license requirements (it is for UK licensees, but the list is the same for other countries, just if not in EU then follow the guidelines for non-EU), https://www.theaa.com/driving-advice/driving-abroad/idp-country-list . Only thing is when it says “IDP recommended”, it really means you don’t need one if you have a driver’s license from your home country (exception is if you are going to a country that your home country has no diplomatic relations). For those who really want a detailed list, this site provides it: https://www.atlantic.caa.ca/files/travel/IDPRequirement.pdf . It might be too much info, but it might be good to know this for some?

Again, just trying to help and this is something that confused my friends when they traveled. In the end, it seems in most cases the rental places don’t care. However, I also like these lists because they also tell you where you don’t need an international driver’s license (e.g., Israel) so you don’t waste your time and money! I would probably get an IDP if going where it is required and planned to drive since I have extreme dread if ever stopped by cops, even if it is for something benign. However, it is good to know in an emergency where I would need to drive and did not plan on it, that there is “leniency” and I just have to have cash on hand for fines.

If you have better sites to look at for this, let me know, you are an expert I trust fully.

Kristin says

02/12/2018 at 4:32 am

Thanks for the help!

Sandeep panwar says

02/04/2018 at 6:56 pm

Lisa Mitchell says

02/05/2018 at 7:56 am

Thank you! You really are amazing. Your posts are so practical as well as inspiring. I’m passing this on to a friend who is just in the planning stages of a trip to Chaing Mai now! Lisa 🙂

Aw thanks, glad you find them helpful!

02/05/2018 at 11:43 am

Wow! All of this looks amazing!

Douglas Mauldin says

02/07/2018 at 8:51 pm

I love to hunting these adventure, mountain. I often like to explorer these adventure. Because its my passion. My friend always inspired me to gonna these adventure. So, we along to go for these mountain to refresh our mind. You are not only a good witter but also a photographer.

02/21/2018 at 1:16 pm

Just one thing little thing about the international driving license which you may not have noticed: The mutual recognization is based on two different international contracts. While some countries have signed both contracts, Thailand only ratified the older treaty from the 1920s.

This sounds all technical but the problem is that most western countries issue international driving licenses according to the contract from the 1960s – and those are actually invalid for Thailand.

While it seems that most Thai policemen dont know about this distinction, you may face problems with the insuruance if you drive without an proper license (or none).

02/22/2018 at 12:48 am

Oh man another layer!

gaurav says

12/16/2018 at 12:02 pm

Where is Wat Chaloem ? Can you send a google maps link because I can’t seem to find it on Google.

12/17/2018 at 3:07 am

Directions and link here: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/wat-chaloem-phra-kiat/

01/25/2019 at 6:45 pm

was checked 5 times on scooter for international driving license. once i left it at home -> 500 Baht fine, which we were able to negotiate to 300 Baht in austria it is 15 euros to get one, so just do it

Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » 13 BEST Day Trips from Chiang Mai, Thailand 

13 BEST Day Trips from Chiang Mai, Thailand 

By Author Rebecca Crowe

Posted on Last updated: March 7, 2024

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

From wildlife experiences to white water rafting, these are the best day trips from Chiang Mai to help plan your adventures in Thailand!

Located in the hills of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a beautiful city known for its natural wonders, amazing street food, and historic culture. Honestly, I love visiting this part of Thailand. So many people skip over it in favour of the islands in the south, but I love how different it is. If you want a more balanced overview of Thailand, then Chiang Mai is a must.

As much as I love Chiang Mai (temples anyone?), there are so many places to visit nearby too. For me, these day trips from Chiang Mai provide some of the best experiences in the whole of Thailand !

Maybe you can road trip to the wilds of the Doi Inthanon National Park with its stunning viewpoints or perhaps visit the gentle giant inhabitants of The Elephant Nature Park?

So, whether you set out on your own adventure, join a local tour or go with a guide, there are plenty of amazing things to see and do within a short distance of Chiang Mai.

With historic temples, incredible waterfalls, and even high-octane outdoorsy adventures on the horizon, these Chiang Mai day trips are well worth your adding to your Thailand itinerary. With that in mind, let’s experience this beautiful part of Thailand!

Planning a trip to Chiang Mai? Then make sure you bookmark my guide to the best hotels in Chiang Mai . Also, check out these incredible adventures in Thailand too!

Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai, Thailand

Doi inthanon national park.

Located around 90 minutes by car from the centre of Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon National Park , otherwise known as the “Roof of Thailand”, is a must-do Chiang Mai tour for any lovers of nature, expansive vistas, and remote waterfalls.

With miles and miles of hiking trails and photogenic viewpoints, you can easily spend multiple days exploring the stunning Doi Inthanon National Park. There are a few multi-day hikes too if you’re looking for something a little bit longer.

As it can be a massive head scratcher planning a solo trip to the national park, I’d really recommend this tour . Then you can go to some of the top spots with a guide and not have to worry about the transport side of things.

Elephant Nature Park

Who doesn’t love elephants, right? They are definitely up there as being one of my favourite animals. Well, the wonderful Elephant Nature Park is a wonderful sanctuary and rescue centre that lets you get up close to these gentle giants. 

You’ll need to drive around one hour north for this amazing Chiang Mai day trip, so it’s the perfect short and sweet excursion that gets you out of the city. You can even help feed the elephants each day and wander around the sanctuary, learning about their conservation efforts.

Huai Nam Dang National Park

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s equal parts beautiful and relaxing, then drive the two hours and 10 minutes to Huai Nam Dang National Park . Not only is this a beautiful national park, full of greenery, rolling hills, and amazing views, but it’s also home to a series of geothermal hot springs. 

Enjoy bamboo rafting down the rivers, and hike towards dazzling waterfalls, before relaxing and soaking your tired muscles in the hot springs. This day trip from Chiang Mai has it all, adventure, natural beauty, and plenty of relaxation and chill time. What’s not to love about that?

As there is A LOT going on here, check out this 2 day, 1 night tour of Huai Nam Dang which showcases the best of the area.

Doi Luang Chiang Dao

Do you love climbing mountains or hiking insanely high but cool peaks? Then you need to visit Doi Luang Chiang Dao, sometimes just referred to as Doi Chiang Dao . As the third highest mountain range in Thailand, it’s a popular outdoor lovers’ destination and just an hour and a half north of Chiang Mai. 

One of the cool things about this particular Thai mountain is that it’s actually made out of limestone, making it the tallest limestone peak in the entire country. If you want to get your steps in and explore phenomenal views at the same time, this is the Chiang Mai day trip for you!

Chiang Dao Cave

Want to jump on a Chiang Mai tour that takes you to some of the most amazing caves in the world? Around an hour and 20 minutes away from Chiang Mai city centre, you’ll find Chiang Dao Cave , a cave that is over 7,000ft tall and entirely made out of limestone.

You can journey through five different caves in this specific area. Wander through them and see all the stalactites and stalagmites on display. If you’re interested in natural geography or geology, this is a day trip that you definitely need to check out during your trip. 

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple

Located on the outskirts of Chiang Mai city centre, just 40 minutes away, you’ll find the spectacular Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple. Known for its gilded gold temples and statues, and panoramic views back out across Chiang Mai, this is an experience that needs to be near the top of your itinerary!

Personally, I’d recommend jumping on a night tour to the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple. This way you can get amazing sunset views and see the temples and the city below all lit up. Make sure you book in advance as this is one of the best times to experience the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple. 

This day trip from Chiang Mai requires an early start, but trust me, it’s so worth it! After driving three hours north, you’ll be in Chiang Rai, the most northern city in Thailand. This place is famed for its white temples like Wat Rong Khun and Wat Phra Kaew . The latter used to be a Thai palace!

As Chiang Rai is on the border with Myanmar and Laos, it’s a popular spot for people backpacking across Southeast Asia. However, this confluence is also known as Thailand’s Golden Triangle and it’s well worth a tour. With the Mekong River, hot springs, and temples, you can have it all in one day trip ! It’s a long day, but one you’ll remember.

Bo Sang and San Khampaeng

If you’re looking for some souvenirs or love local arts and crafts, then this is the one for you. Drive around 30 minutes out of Chiang Mai and you’ll arrive at either Bo Sang or San Khampaeng. Both are around the same distance, and both are incredible artisan villages.

With Bo Sang specialising in paper making and beautiful traditional umbrellas and parasols, and San Khampaeng focusing on ceramics and textiles, you can easily shop until you drop and learn all about these traditional vendors! 

Hang Dong District

Want a cool day trip without having to really leave the city? Head 30 minutes southwest and you’ll arrive in the Hang Dong District of Chiang Mai. This part of the city is known for a few things. It’s bustling with antique shops and markets if you’re looking to grab a bargain.

It’s also full of family-friendly excursions and activities if you’re looking to keep the little ones entertained. From the Chiang Mai Night Safari to the Grand Canyon Water Park , it’s the perfect way to spend a day exploring the outskirts of Chiang Mai

Bua Thong Waterfalls (aka Sticky Waterfalls)

Otherwise known as the Bua Thong Waterfalls , the amusingly named Sticky Waterfalls are a popular day trip from Chiang Mai. Located around an hour away from the city in the Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park, the Sticky Waterfalls are easily accessible with a ton of tours combining a visit here with the nearby Doi Suthep Temples. 

One of the cool things about these waterfalls is the fact that you can actually climb up them. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s definitely cool to see! Don’t forget to bring your swimming costume for this day trip!

Huay Tung Tao Reservoir

If you’re after a relaxing day trip that’s full of great food and tranquil vibes, then look no further than Huay Tung Tao Reservoir . It’s only around 25-30 minutes in the car from the centre of Chiang Mai, but it still feels like you’re in the middle of the countryside.

The reservoir is surrounded by traditional bamboo huts and buildings, with plenty of amazing restaurants to choose from. Honestly, you need to bring your appetite because there is so much to try here and in such beautiful surroundings too! And let’s be honest, Thai food is one of the best things about Thailand! That’s not just me, is it?

Mae Sa Valley

Want a blend of stunning waterfall hikes and adrenaline-fuelled ziplines? Well, you can have your cake and eat it too in the Mae Sa Valley. This lush and green valley is full of relaxing resorts and garden hotels, which are ideal for getting back in touch with nature. It’s also only 45 minutes from Chiang Mai, so it’s an ideal day trip .

If horticulture is more your thing, there is a dedicated rare orchid route that you can either drive or walk down. It definitely has to be seen to be believed! 

Mae Taeng River

If you’re after a Chiang Mai tour that packs a punch, either drive an hour north or jump on a tour to the Mae Taeng River . This definitely isn’t the calming and relaxing river cruise or paddle that you might get elsewhere in the country.

That’s because the Mae Taeng River is best known for its outstanding whitewater rafting experiences .  So, if you want a day trip that gets your heart pumping, this is going to be the Chiang Mai tour for you.

So, there you have it the best day trips from Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand. Which day trips sound the best to you? Let me know in the comments below!

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About the Author

Rebecca Crowe is a freelance writer who specializes in writing about travel, food, and outdoor adventure. She is often found holding a taco, in an airport, or halfway up a climbing wall.

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The 10 Best Day Trips From Chiang Mai, Thailand

There’s more to Chiang Mai than just the city. Much of the surrounding countryside remains unspoiled, including down-home villages and mountain trails where you can hike or ATV through some of northern Thailand’s most gorgeous scenery. All you have to do is make your way there, and it’s a whole new adventure. If you're ready to go, these are the day trip destinations you shouldn't miss.

Explore a Ruined Capital at Wiang Kum Kam

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This Lanna metropolis south of Chiang Mai once served as the Kingdom’s capital for all of ten years in 1286; regular floods from the nearby Ping River led to its final abandonment in the 16th century. Much of the site was only dug up from the mud in the 1980s, revealing over 40 temple ruins within a city measuring some 120 acres.

Getting there: Hire a private ride to get to Wiang Kum Kam. Start your trip at the visitor center at Route 3029 to learn about the foundation of Wiang Kum Kam , and hire a horse-cart nearby to take you around the local sights.

Travel tip: Two temples have been fully restored and remain active for worshipers. Wat Chedi Liam was founded in 1288, and Wat Chang Kam was first built in 1290; both were re-sanctified in the 20th century. The other temples in the area have been ravaged by centuries of floods and neglect, but are still in the process of restoration by the authorities.

Take on Thailand’s Longest Canopy Walk at Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens

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Named after the Thai Queen Mother, the Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens were established in 1992 as a haven for Thai plant life and a research area for botanical specialists. The Gardens are intended as a showcase for biodiversity and ecological conservation — a cause close to the Queen Mother’s heart.

Key stops include the Glass House Complex, with eight themed conservatories (including orchids and cacti); a Museum of Natural Sciences for kids; and the Flying Draco Trail, the longest canopy walkway in Thailand. The Trail features a see-through mesh floor and glass barriers, so you can see the gorgeous natural view unimpeded.

Getting there: If you can’t get a private car and driver, take the yellow songthaew (minibus) from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 1 to Mae Rim; you can disembark at the gate. To get back, just look for a yellow songthaew heading in the opposite direction.

Travel tip: If you don’t come with a ride handy, prepare to do a lot of walking between the Gardens’ widely-spaced attractions.

Shop for Thai Treasures at Handicraft Highway

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Highway 1006 has long been known as Chiang Mai’s “Handicraft Highway” thanks to the artisanal villages found down its length. The villages of Bo Sang and Ban Tawai , among others, are excellent showcases for northern Thai handicrafts. Bo Sang specializes in umbrellas and fans. Their artisans use traditional methods and materials like mulberry paper, but are also increasingly using modern designs and influences. Ban Tawai, on the other hand, has turned into a friendly home décor market driven by local woodcarvers.

Getting there: Riding a yellow songthaew from Chiang Mai gate will take you down Route 108 to a stop a mile shy from Ban Tawai. For a more direct trip, hire a tuktuk or songthaew to take you, though expect to pay about THB 500 ($16).

Travel tip: More handicrafts are to be seen down the length of the highway, including silverware, silk, ceramics, and lacquerware. Visit the local workshops not just to buy at a low price, but to see the artisans hard at work creating the valuable handicrafts you’re planning to take home.

Go Underground in the Chiang Dao Caves

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A visit to Chiang Dao National Park simply isn’t complete without venturing into the depths of the Chiang Dao Caves . This cave complex consists of some 100 caves in total, but only five caves are open to the public. Two of the caves can be explored freely: Tham Seua Dao and Tham Phra Nawn have both been electrically illuminated and set up for visitors, with a proliferation of Buddha images and shrines. You’ll need a lantern (hired at the caves) and an optional guide to explore the other three caves: Tham Maa, Tham Naam and Tham Kaew.

Getting there: You can choose from either orange buses and VIP buses that both leave from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 1.

Travel tip: Passageways in these caves can get pretty low, and the floors can get slippery. Hiring a guide can help you see the caves more efficiently while avoiding the dangerous parts.

See Chiang Rai’s Modern Temples

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This northernmost metropolis in Thailand, like Chiang Mai, was a former Lanna capital. Today it’s a laid-back city that features a surprisingly vital art scene and a collection of modern temples that reveal Chiang Rai’s unique spirit. The White Temple , Wat Rong Khun, is perhaps Chiang Rai’s most famous tourist destination — only opened in 1997, it combines Buddhist imagery with a modern artist’s eye. The Blue Temple is a riot of blue and gold — and unlike the White Temple, permits picture-taking on the premises.

Getting there: Chiang Rai is set some 110 miles northeast of Chiang Mai and is easily accessible by bus or hired car.

Travel tip: If the outdoors are more your thing, Chiang Rai obliges with Long Neck Karen villages, where you can meet the local tribes and shop for handicrafts, and rafting and elephant encounters at Mae Kok River.

Ride an ATV at X-Centre, Mae Rim

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The countryside surrounding Chiang Mai is the perfect backdrop for extreme activities, and Mae Sa Valley obliges with the X-Centre : a rural adventure trail with activities like ziplines, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), paintball, and bungee jumping. The ATV experience is X-Centre’s key attraction. You can choose from two off-road tours, with the tougher one taking two hours and passing through some challenging (but not extremely difficult) terrain like water crossings, jungle paths and moderate inclines. For ATV riders, a refundable deposit of THB 5,000 ($160) will be charged, which is added incentive to take care of your ride!

Getting there: X-Centre is about a 30 minute drive from Chiang Mai Old Town; free shuttle service to/from Chiang Mai is available for bookings straight from their website.

Travel tip: The park opens at 9 a.m.; try to visit as early as possible to avoid the noontime sun.

Escape the Heat at Mon Cham, Thailand

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The Nong Hoi Royal Project was created to curb the drug trade. Hmong hill tribes, formerly engaged in the cultivation of opium poppies used in heroin, were encouraged to join this agro-tourism project in the mountains overlooking Chiang Mai. The farming community of Mon Cham is Nong Hoi’s key tourist showpiece, with hills abloom with thyme, mint, camomile, strawberries, seedless grapes and tomatoes. Grown using sustainable farming principles, Mon Cham’s produce (what it doesn’t export in any case) makes its way to the many farm-to-table restaurants in the area. Located some 4,200 feet above sea level, Mon Cham offers a cooler climate that can be a relief compared to Chiang Mai.

Getting there: Mon Cham is an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai up highways 1096 and 4051; red taxis and Grab ride shares alike are ready to take you there.

Travel tip: Visit Mon Cham between October and February, when the cool air feels particularly crisp and no rains will interrupt your experience.

Dine Al Fresco at Huay Tung Tao Lake

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This man-made reservoir has found its true purpose as an R&R area for Thai locals. Huay Tung Tao Lake is best known for its rustic restaurants, where diners can tuck into freshly-caught fish at the kiosks overlooking the water. Enjoy grilled fish, papaya salad, and sticky rice, and wash it down with a frosty local beer. Beyond the food, you can also go paddle boarding, ATV riding, or swimming in one of the designated areas in the lake. An entrance fee of THB 50 ($1.60) will be charged at the gate.

Getting there: Huay Tung Tao is an easy nine mile drive from Chiang Mai. Hire your own ride (a Grab car or songthaew).

Travel tip: Despite the 20-plus restaurants on site, the menus are quite similar in items and price.

Relax at the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs

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This popular destination for Thai locals gives all visitors a chance to relax their muscles in hot spring water. Located some 20-odd miles east of Chiang Mai, the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs provide a multitude of ways for visitors to enjoy the sulfur-rich hot springs that bubble up from the depths. You can go swimming in the mineral swimming pool, where the enriched warm water feels like a liquid hug. You can book a private room with your own hot-spring tub. You can even cook chicken eggs at the hot springs at the entrance! An entrance fee of THB 100 ($3.20) will be charged at the gate.

Getting there: Take a white songthaew from Warorot Market to San Kamphaeng. 

Travel tip: As San Kamphaeng is a popular haunt for the locals, avoid visiting during the weekends when most of the visitors make their way here.

Jump Off a Cliff at Hang Dong Quarry

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Due to the water-filled depressions surrounded by stark red rock cliff faces, visitors have given this abandoned quarry in Chiang Mai a new name: the “Grand Canyon”. While nowhere near as Grand as its U.S.-based namesake, Chiang Mai’s Grand Canyon is good for an afternoon of fun. Most adventurous visitors come here to go “cliff-jumping” into the waters. You can choose from a few different heights from which to jump, from a measly six feet to a terrifying 40-plus-foot drop. Don’t worry about hitting rock bottom: the water is really deep.

Getting there: There are no public transport options nearby, so you'll need to hire your own songthaew or private ride. The 11 mile trip will take about 30 to 45 minutes by car.

Travel tip: For a more sedate adventure in the area, try the more family-friendly Grand Canyon Waterpark and its slides, inflatable obstacle course and zipline. You can float serenely on an inner tube or bamboo raft, admiring the view, or you can chill out with a beer or fruit smoothie at the Tuang Thong Canyon View Restaurant.

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Day Trips from Chiang Mai — 19 Best Things to Do in Northern Thailand

The best places to visit on your next trip to Chiang Mai .

My Roman Empire is a conversation I had with a friend about Chiang Mai — a place I’d never heard of. She told me about its chilly weather, picturesque mountain views, and the Loy Kratong Festival. For a solid 15 minutes, I thought we were discussing Shanghai… until she brought up “Thailand”.

“Wait, Shiangmai (sic)… do you mean Shanghai… there’s a Shanghai in Thailand?”

And that’s the story of how Chiang Mai became a must-visit for me.

But the beauty of Chiang Mai is that it’s the perfect gateway to exploring the rest of Northern Thailand! We rented a car and spent most of the time exploring highlands like Mon Jam just 1 hour from Chiang Mai, the highest point in Thailand (about 2 hours from Chiang Mai), and the real kicker was our 5.5hr drive to the border just before Myanmar!

There’s a lot of fun experiences in Northern Thailand so I hope this guide will help you maximise your next Chiang Mai trip.

Things to Do in Chiang Mai

1) watch the sunrise from the skies.

A hot air balloon ride in Thailand ?? This might be one of the most epic ways to watch the sunrise. Even if you’re not a morning person, the panoramic views of the mountainous city are hard to resist.

Enjoy views of rice fields, mountain silhouettes, and the whole town slowly “waking up” at the break of dawn.

As tradition goes, the flight ends with a complimentary glass of champagne and a sumptuous breakfast buffet! The package we booked also included a 2-hour massage at a fancy spa location.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, soar through the skies of Chiang Mai in an exhilarating paramotor ride instead! They’ll even lend you GoPro’s for free so you can save memories from your exciting journey up above.

Cost:  ~S$462/pax via Klook (incl. 2hr Spa) Timing:  6AM – 12PM Hotel pick up:  Available for accommodations in Chiang Mai

2) Learn to Cook Your Favourite Thai Dish

This cooking class is a true farm-to-table experience! It starts with a mini-tour of the garden, where the herbs and spices you’ll use in cooking are sourced.

In a span of 3 hours, I felt like a certified fry cook as I dished out Thai favourites — pad thai , Khao soi (Northern Thailand curry-based dish), and chicken coconut soup — in the comfort of a homey Lanna-style hut.

Most Thai dishes only have four ingredients so in theory, it’s not that difficult. But as a fire-phobe, there were times our instructor had to turn off the stove when my food was close to getting burnt 😬

Cost:  From ~S$43/pax via Klook ; comes with customised apron Timing:  6AM – 12PM Hotel pick up:  Available for accommodations in Chiang Mai

3) Treat yourself to a relaxing spa and massage

Photo credit: Thailandmassage.com

We tried different massages throughout our 8-day trip , and everyone’s best experience was with Fah Lanna Spa , the most luxurious of all spas we had visited.

We arrived to quiet Lanna-aesthetic rooms, the therapists were incredibly skilled, and you’re given a form to state your preferences like strength and areas of focus so the massage is tailored for you.

The day spa has a suitable ambience if you really want to relax, a welcome change from the noisier massage places you’ll see along the walking streets. Good news if you’re staying in the Old Town or near Night Bazaar : Fah Lanna Spa has branches there too, so you don’t have to go far!

Cost:  From ~S$27/pax (60min treatment) Opening hours: 12PM – 9PM Address:  Along Nimmana Haeminda Road Lane 15, intersecting Nimmana Haeinda Road ( Google Maps )

Read also:   15 Essential Experiences to Add to your Chiang Mai Itinerary — The Adventure Base of Thailand

Things to Do in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Chiang Mai but there are noteworthy stops along the way to the White Temple (the most famous one in Northern Thailand) such as the lovely cafes you’ll get to know later.

4) Visit Thailand’s most famous temples

White Temple — If you’re not a “temple person” but feel like you should visit one in Northern Thailand, Wat Rong Khun (a.k.a the White Temple) is the grandest of all! More like a complex, with many buildings to explore including the Cave of Art . It’s meant to be a modern temple, hence unconventional details such as a haunting pit of hands and even a Spiderman artwork.

They’re constantly developing the White Temple, so it’s worth checking out again if you haven’t gone in a few years.

Blue Temple — The striking blue and gold building is a tough one to miss. The interior houses a giant Buddha statue lit with blue lights as well. The blue and gold colours aren’t just for show; they represent the journey to enlightenment.

Baan Dam (Black House Museum) — Some people mistake this place for Black Temple, but be warned: this isn’t a temple. It’s a fun museum featuring sombre, modern and eerie artworks like those that feature paraphernalia and dead animals. We had a blast with the AR exhibit when we visited.

I think it’s worth checking them off in a day tour from Chiang Mai since they all have their own unique charm. Certainly different from your usual temples!

Cost:  From ~S$51/pax Tour timing:  7AM – 6:30PM Meeting point:  One Nimman, 1min walk from U Nimman ( Google Maps )

5) Visit a Sheep café

I underestimated the joy that a mere herd of fluffy sheep could give.

Akha Farmville is a pleasant café that allows guests to pet, take pics, and feed sheep around their vast land.

All this, plus a stunning mountain view!

Don’t be surprised if the sheep sit beside you at the cafe!

Entrance fee: ฿100 (~S$4), includes free drink Opening hours: 7:30AM – 5:30PM (closes at 6PM from Fri – Sun) How to get there: 2.5hr drive from Chiang Mai ( Google Maps )

6) Dine in a fairytale-inspired café

The man-made waterfall looked too extra, we had to see it with our own eyes.

This isn’t just another cafe. Walking into Lalitta Café may feel like you’re transported to a fairytale.

Enjoy the enormous man-made waterfall up close while having a meal. There’s an alfresco dining area right before the feature and the cafe serves Thai/Lanna food at mid-range prices.

Entrance fee:  ฿60/pax Opening hours:  8AM – 8PM How to get there: ~20min drive from Baan Dam Museum ( Google Maps )

Things to Do in Mon Jam

Mon Jam is a 45min drive from Chiang Mai, and mainly known for three things: mountain glamping, beautiful gardens, and cafe-hopping. It wasn’t as touristy as we thought which made for a delightfully peaceful experience and nice photos!

7) Experience a jungle adventure

Stop by Pongyang Jungle Coaster Zipline , a small family-friendly theme park that gave us more thrill and fun than we expected. Their signature ride is a “jungle coaster” where you can control how fast or slow you want to go.

There’s also a 12-station zipline, which comes with whacky obstacles like cycling on cables and a mini bungy jump.

Cost:  Varies depending on activity & package ( from ~S$6/pax via Klook ) Opening hours:  6AM – 12PM How to get there:  ~1hr drive from Chiang Mai; round-trip transfer optional ( Google Maps )

8) Visit a flower garden or farm

Just one trip to a field of flowers in Mon Jam will ensure you a snazzy Insta photo. We went to the less-crowded Yingyong Flower Garden since they had three varieties of flowers (lavender, white, and red).

The natural light was still great when we arrived after lunch, but it’s best to visit during sunrise or sunset. If you want something more hands-on, try strawberry or orange-picking at a farm instead.

Yingyong Flower Garden Cost:  ฿50/pax Opening hours: 6AM – 6PM How to get there:  ~1hr 15min drive from Chiang Mai ( Google Maps )

9) Look for the most scenic panoramic viewpoint

Mon Jam is one of the best places in Northern Thailand for glamping thanks to its chilly weather and amazing views.

If you’re short on time, what you could do instead is visit 98 Cozy Cafe Camping Garden — a modern camping-themed cafe which has an overlooking view of the town. The layout of the place made it feel more inviting to watch the sunset: a wooden ledge, camping chairs, and picnic blankets.

And their waffles? To die for!

Cost:  ~฿60/drink Opening hours : 8AM – 6PM How to get there:  10mins from Pongyang Jungle Coaster ( Google Maps )

Things to Do in Pai

10) walk along pai canyon.

One of the most unique natural formations in Northern Thailand is the Pai Canyon . It’s composed of deep valleys, ridges, and dark orange sand that’ll stick to your shoes, so it’s definitely not going to be an easy walk.

Standing on the edges for a photo was scarier than I imagined it to be!

As most of the walking paths are exposed, it will be blazing hot if you visit in the afternoon. The best times to visit are during sunrise and sunset.

Cost:  Free Opening hours: 6AM – 8PM How to get there:  ~2hr 40min drive from Chiang Mai ( Google Maps )

11) Go tipsy-tubing

Pai is a famous stop for backpackers so don’t be surprised to see more foreigners than locals here!

One of the most popular activities here is tipsy tubing — also perhaps the best way to experience the Pai River. You ride on a rubber tube, with drink in hand while enjoying the surrounding views.

Definitely a unique way to meet new people that isn’t through a hostel or a bar.

There are a few operators you can do this with and should cost around ฿200-350 ( Nolo Hub is the most popular).

Cost:  Depends on tour operator, usually ~฿300/pax Timings: Every Tue and Fri afternoon, dependent on weather. Contact your hostel or tour operator for exact time How to get there:  Hotel pick-up

Things to Do in Mae Hong Son

12) drive along mae hong son loop.

The 1,864 curves and long 5.5-hour journey may turn off many people from driving to Mae Hong Son. But trust us: once you get used to the winding roads, it becomes fun because of all the stopovers along the way.

It’s advisable to split the Loop into multiple days, since there are many waterfalls, viewpoints, and lakes to hit. Moreover, you’ll be encountering many rice fields and tall trees during the drive, making for a scenic road trip.

We did the Mae Hong Son Loop via car rental , but a motorbike may be more ideal for solo travellers. It can be dangerous driving here, especially at night because of the lack of lights and fast-moving vehicles. Exercise caution!

Read also: 8D7N Northern Thailand Itinerary Starting in Chiang Mai — Sky adventures, mountain road trips, and quirky cafes

13) Spend a day in a Yunnan village

The place that made us ask: “are we still in Thailand?”

Ban Rak Thai is a peaceful Chinatown-esque village in Mae Hang Son known for its tea plantations and picturesque lake. The best time to visit the place is during sunrise to catch the mist. Overnight glamping is also available in the area if you don’t want to miss it.

Strolling through tea plantations, and doing some tea and wine-tasting are must-do’s in this place. Many stalls offer free samples so you have no excuse to miss it.

Stop by for lunch at the Lee Wine Ruk Thai restaurant which serves yummy Yunnan-inspired food. Next thing you know, you’ll be asking the same question as us!

Cost:  Free Opening hours: 6:20AM – 8PM How to get there:  ~25min drive from Pang Ung Lake ( Google Map s )

Things to Do in Lamphun and Lampang

14) dine in an animal farm café.

Don’t be fooled by Google reviews of The Lamp Lamphun Cafe & Farm that mostly describe the space as a “family-friendly café”. While it would be suitable for all ages, it’s far from boring!

While the turquoise water around it is probably artificial, it gave the whole space a whimsical vibe. Especially with the random geese and ducks walking around freely.

But we spent the most time playing with the baby goats .

There’s also SUP boards you can rent to paddle around the lake but don’t forget to try the food too!

Cost: ~฿220/pax Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM How to get there: ~34min drive from Wat Chamthewi ( Google Maps )

15) Explore a hidden cave

One of the most unexpected hidden gems on our Northern Thailand trip was a visit to the Tham Luang Pha Wiang Cave .

From the parking lot, walk up the slope until you see a flight of steps that goes up to the cave entrance.

While it seemed tiny at first, we were surprised with how deep the cave was! The monk inserted four ฿10 coins in a machine which turned on the lights in the cave for 10 minutes.

There’s a giant Buddha statue, cool stalagmite formations, and spots for a cool photo-op.

Cost:  Free, ฿40 to turn on lights How to get there:  ~35min drive from The Lamp Lamphun Cafe & Farm ( Google Map s )

16) Visit old Lanna-style temples

While not as flashy, the gold-laden Wat Phra That Haripunchai is a gigantic architectural beaut boasting Lanna, Burmese, and Dvaravati influences.

It was quiet when we visited, a welcome change from the Chiang Rai temples.

Wat Chamthewi is another temple with an interesting feature: a chedi (Buddhist shrine) fashioned in the shape of a tiered tower.

Wat Phra That Haripunchai Entrance fee:  ฿50/pax Opening hours: 6AM – 6PM How to get there:  ~40min drive from Chiang Mai ( Google Map s )

Wat Chamthewi Entrance fee:  ฿50/pax Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM How to get there:  ~4min drive from Wat Phra That Haripunchai ( Google Map s )

Other day trips from Chiang Mai

17) visit thailand’s highest mountain.

Doi Inthanon measures 2,565m above sea level and is the highest mountain in Thailand.

Located in a national park, it’s a 1.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai. One of the most impressive waterfalls within the Doi Inthanon National Park is Watchirathan Falls — an 80m cascading waterfall. On sunny days, you’ll likely spot a few rainbows here.

Another interesting stop on the way to the peak is the Ang Ka Nature Trail , which also leads to the country’s highest toilets. The cool weather and lush greens make it a very enjoyable walking trail.

Last but not least, end the day at the Royal Twin Pagodas .

The Queen Pagoda had an eclectic purple colour that reminded me of a Wes Anderson film! Chill out and admire the view from the garden (although it was shrouded in fog when we visited).

This is best done on a half-day tour with pick up from some hotels in Chiang Mai . It comes with a friendly and knowledgeable guide and you get to sleep on the 2-hour drive back to the city.

Doi Inthanon National Park Day Tour Cost:   From ~S$62/pax Tour timings: 8AM – 5PM Hotel pick up:  Available for hotels in the Nimman area

18) Doi Suthep

Doi Suthep National Park is a popular day trip destination for one reason: the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple. Many people have commended its main feature: the golden chedi , and the serpent-clad staircase leading up to the temple.

The park itself has many similarities with Doi Inthanon: it’s on a mountain ( doi means “mountain”) with a great view of the city. There are many waterfalls and walking trails to enjoy as well.

If you only have time for one, consider how much you like temples: the Royal Pagodas in Doi Inthanon aren’t that impressive, so you might want to see Wat Phra That Doi Suthep instead.

Doi Suthep Half and Full Day Tour Cost: From ~S$28/pax Tour timings: Varies Hotel pick up:  Available for accommodation in Chiang Mai

19) Chiang Dao Cave

Photo credit: Klook

Those looking for a unique day trip from Chiang Mai might enjoy Chiang Dao Cave . Explore its chambers and see intricate rock formations. While it’s not a particularly hard trek, you’ll need to squeeze yourself into some narrow passageways.

There are local guides in the vicinity to shine the light for you (literally and figuratively), but booking a tour may be more convenient.

There are many good spots to hit near the Cave, like temples, bodies of water, and even hot springs . Bats aren’t the only things you may encounter; check out the wildlife sanctuary to see diverse florals and fauna.

Chiang Dao Cave and Jungle Experience Cost: From ~S$92/pax Tour timing: 8:30AM – 5:30PM Meet-up point: Hotel pick-up

Planning your day trips from Chiang Mai

You can hit up a lot of these places if you carefully plan out your itinerary! Here are some additional tips if you want to maximise your stay in Chiang Mai and surrounds:

1) Rent a car — this is the best way to explore the outskirts of Chiang Mai. It also gives you the flexibility to stop by hidden gems along the way! You can also choose to visit popular attractions at non-peak timings for the best experience.

You’ll need to have a valid driving licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Thailand. If you are stopped by a Thai officer, they may ask for your IDP and you’ll end up paying a fine (~THB400) if you don’t have it.

2) Book your accommodation in Chiang Mai — Chiang Mai is a great base for many of these day trips! On days where we had to drive out from Chiang Mai, staying at an accommodation that was near the highway was key. We stayed at Moose Hotel Chiang Mai and that saved time from getting stuck in the morning traffic within the city.

3) Book day tours — the best way to explore Northern Thailand if there are no drivers in your travel group or if you’re travelling solo. Most tours come with knowledgeable guides so it’s great to get some insight and stories about the place. But the best part is perhaps getting to sleep on the long drives which can stretch up to 3 hours.

4) Best time to visit — Wintertime in Chiang Mai (November to February) has the perfect weather because it’s chilly without getting too cold. Don’t get me wrong: it can get hot during daytime (especially in Pai) so it’s best to wear light clothes, and a windbreaker for when the sun sets.

You may also may want to catch the most anticipated festivals in Chiang Mai: the Songkran Water Festival in April, and the magical Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festivals in late November.

5) Check out our guides and itineraries for ideas on your next trip to Thailand :

– 8D7N Northern Thailand Itinerary Starting in Chiang Mai — Sky adventures, mountain road trips, and quirky cafes – Thailand Road Trip Guide: 5 Epic Ideas Under 3hrs from Bangkok – 3D2N Pattaya Itinerary — An Unexpected Adventure 2hrs from Bangkok

Exploring all of these on day trips from Chiang Mai made me realise why my friend was so fond of the place. It was a nice change of pace to be surrounded by nature and scenic mountaintop views, especially from someone who lives in a hot and busy city. Take me back!

Which day trips from Chiang Mai excite you most? Let us know in the comments below! 😊

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7 Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai

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Image: Unsplash

Look no further for the best day trips from Chiang Mai, the largest city in northern Thailand.

Considered the cultural capital of the country, a hub for expats and digital nomads , and the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai has many attributes, including the largest number of Buddhist temples in all of Thailand .

It offers also many opportunities for amazing day tours from Chiang Mai, from stunning temples to lush natural parks or adventure activities.

If you’re wondering where to go, how to get there, or what to see, this list of the best excursions from Chiang Mai according to travel bloggers has got you covered.

Table of Contents

Best day trips from Chiang Mai:

Elephant nature park.

Recommended by Vanda from The Yogi Wanderer

If you’d like to get close to elephants while in Thailand, visiting an ethical sanctuary like Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is a mandatory and extraordinary experience.

Our day trip to Elephant Nature Park was one of the best experiences of our 2 weeks in Thailand and I truly can’t recommend it enough!

Many places around Chiang Mai call themselves elephant sanctuaries but not all of them are up to this title.

Elephant Nature Park is the most respected of its kind in northern Thailand, with many international awards and recognitions.

It’s also the most expensive one, but at least you can be sure all your money is used to help rescue, feed and treat the animals at their care.

A day trip to Elephant Nature Park includes pick-up from your hotel in Chiang Mai, a delicious vegetarian lunch, and the opportunity to interact with the elephants, learn about their stories, and feed them.

During the almost one-hour drive from Chiang Mai to the park, you’ll also learn about the barbaric process inflicted on Asian elephant so tourists can ride them.

You can choose between a half-day or a full-day visit . We opted for the latter for the chance to watch the elephants bathing and playing around in the river, and it was well worth it!

But either way, make sure to book well in advance since places sell out quickly.

If you have more time, Elephant Nature Park also offers overnight stays and volunteer programs.

You can book your visit to Elephant Nature Park here.

Biking tour

Recommended by Louis from TheNorthernBoy

After a 2-day slow boat journey from Laos to Thailand and a coach journey, I finally arrived in Thailand’s awesome Chiang Mai.

A destination that most backpackers usually visit when passing through Thailand, this is also a hub for digital nomads.

Anyway, after the killer boat ride, there is no better way to stretch your legs, than the sweet bicycle tour in Chiang Mai .

Cycling around Chiang Mai on one of the tours is an amazing way for you to learn some cool insights into the history of Thailand.

So what you can expect on a cycling tour in Chiang Mai?

You will be taken on a journey through some of the most stunning and visited sights in Chiang Mai.

You will also be taken to places where the typical tourist wouldn’t necessarily get to visit and some of the villages you visit will give you a real taste of Thai culture.

You will get to see all this thanks to the guidance of your experienced tour guide.

Bike tour companies have bikes suited to your size and there are even bikes for children if you’re visiting Chiang Mai with kids.

How much is a bike tour? You can pay anything from $8 upwards. However, I recommend spending a little more: you will have a sweeter experience.

If you are unsure about taking a bike tour, I couldn’t recommend it any higher!

Click here to book your Chiang Mai biking tour.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Recommended by Chloe from Chloe’s Travelogue

Chiang Mai is known as the Roof of Thailand with the highest mountain in the country – Doi Inthanon.

Doi Inthanon National Park  is a perfect day trip destination for nature-loving travelers, and here is why.

Reaching the highest point in Thailand is easy. Only one and a half hours away from the city center, a taxi or Songthaew ride can be easily arranged from Chiang Mai hotels. Or, you can join a small group tour .

The natural beauty of Doi Inthanon won’t disappoint you.

While you have an option to drive straight up to the mountain top, hiking the mystic trails and chasing waterfalls take you through the scenic route.

Bonus: As the temperature on the mountain is considerably lower than the city, hiking is pleasant and breezy even in summer.

However, the highlight of Doi Inthanon is definitely on the mountain top, where the King and Queen Pagodas are.

The Queen’s Garden is carpeted with the endless field of colorful flowers. Enjoy the jaw-dropping view from the royal pagodas above the cloud, where the sky meets mountain top.

If heaven exists on the earth, this would be it.

Finally, Doi Inthanon is also home to Thai hill tribes. On the way down, you can visit a Hmong hill tribe village to learn about their culture and livelihood.

If you enjoy textiles, you can buy handmade textiles at a reasonable price, too.

Book your Doi Inthanon National Park day tour here, including hotel transfers and lunch with a hill tribe.

Image: Pixabay

Recommended by Ania from The Travelling Twins

We loved Chiang Mai, but after a week there, we wanted to see more of Thailand.

The choice was easy. We took a trip to Chiang Rai, 200 kilometers to the north.

We decided to explore Chiang Rai with kids on our own rather than with a guide. Our favorite places were the White, Blue, and Black Temples.

The White Temple – Wat Rong Khun is one of the most peculiar temples I have ever seen. It is indeed white, but the interest is in all the weird details.

Thousands of ghoulish hands grasp into the air from a moat. Heads of decapitated superheroes form parts of the internal decoration, as do skulls and Hello Kitty images. This place is fascinating.

The Black Temple, aka Black House – Baan Dam – is another strange place. It is the museum and gallery for both the collection and the art of Thai artist – Thawan Duchanee.

The “house” actually comprises about 40 buildings designed by the artist. They contain fascinating but rather ghoulish objects made from animal bones, skulls, horns, and hides.

The Blue Temple – Wat Rong Seur Ten – by comparison, is more like a regular Thai temple with golden embellishments.  It is beautifully intricate, and the parts that aren’t gold are indeed blue.

All these three sites are easy to see on a Chiang Mai day trip.

Alternatively, you can stay overnight and visit the lively Chiang Rai night market.

There are different ways to get to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai.

Organized tours offer day trips including all the sites mentioned here.

We caught a bus (the Greenbus company) and explored Chiang Rai on our own using tuk-tuks and Uber.

The journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai takes around three and a half hours.

Alternatively, you can book your day trip to Chiang Mai here.

Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Temples

Image: Two Wandering Soles

Recommended by Katie from Two Wandering Soles

If you have a sense of adventure and truly want to get off the beaten path in northern Thailand, a day trip to the little-known “white temples” near Lampang will surely be a highlight of your visit.

The  temples of Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat  are seldom visited by foreigners. This makes this experience feel like extra special since it can be hard to get off the “elephant pants trail” in Thailand.

Perched high in the mountains outside the town of Lampang are white pagodas and a beautiful temple you can explore.

Soak in the epic views and enjoy the feeling of not being surrounded by crowds.

The temple itself is just one of the highlights of this epic day trip from Chiang Mai. Getting there is the other part of the adventure!

With mountain viewpoints, roads that wind through small villages, and plenty of places to stop along the way, the drive through the Thai countryside to get to this magical spot will wow you.

The tricky thing about this off the beaten path place is that it is quite difficult to get to, the best mode of transportation being a motorbike.

However, if you do not know how to drive a scooter, please don’t attempt to learn on this trip!

Instead, you can hire a songthaew (red truck) driver for the day, which will be best split with a group to make it more affordable.

Or you can book a private car charter between Chiang Mai and Lampang here.

Image: Not Brits Abroad

Recommended by Oli from Not Brits Abroad

When it comes to activities in Chiang Mai, you’re a little spoilt for choice.

One of the most popular activities in the area is ziplining and there seem to be countless places where you can do it.

Jungle Flight has two unique offerings which make it stand out as one of the best choices.

Firstly, they have the longest zipline in Thailand, at 1,000 meters long.

Secondly, they have a zipline rollercoaster which sends you flying down a long, windy rail hanging underneath it by your harness.

To enjoy both of these unique offerings, you need to go for their ‘Ultimate’ package which costs 2,600 Baht per person. There are two less expensive options but neither of them includes both the longest zipline and the rollercoaster.

Although it’s not the cheapest activity, you do get lunch and return transportation included, as well as a free T-shirt at the end.

Since most of the ziplining courses in the area are up in the jungle, it takes a little over an hour to get from the center of Chiang Mai to any of the sites.

The experience takes just a few hours but is well worth the trip and the cost!

Everyone at Jungle Flight is friendly and welcoming and they always make sure you’re enjoying your day.

The course itself varies from short ziplines surrounded by the jungle to the huge 1,000 meters long fly over treetops which offers incredible views of the area.

Book your Jungle Flight zipline experience here.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most sacred pilgrimage places in all of Thailand and one of the most impressive temples of the more than 300 you can find in and around Chiang Mai.

Located inside Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, 27 kilometers from Chiang Mai old city, it stands on the Doi Suthep mountain and offers beautiful views of the city.

To get to the temple itself, you need to climb up 306 steps or take a funicular.

I highly recommend taking the stairs though so you can enjoy the impressive sounds of the forest on your way up.

Inside, the gold chedi, a model of the Emerald Buddha and a statue of Ganesh are especially remarkable.

Visiting the beautiful Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was the perfect end for our 4 days in Chiang Mai .

To get there, our hotel arranged a taxi from Chiang Mai to Doi Suthep temple, and back. The journey takes about one hour each way.

Alternatively, you can get a songthaew (shared taxi) or join an organized tour .

Guided Chiang Mai day tours to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep usually include also a visit to the nearby hill tribes and trekking.

You can book a customized guided day trip to Doi Suthep here.

So there you have it. The best day trips from Chiang Mai according to travel bloggers. Which one will you choose?

Have you taken a day trip from Chiang Mai? What would you add to this list of day tours from Chiang Mai? Share in the comments section below!

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About Vanda

I'm a Portuguese journalist and certified yoga teacher born in the Azores but Lisboner at heart. After 10 years as an expat in Switzerland, I now travel the world full-time as a digital nomad, with 27 countries and 5 continents under my belt and counting. I share wellness and yoga-friendly travel advice based on my own experience and knowledge.

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20 Epic Day Trips from Chiang Mai

• by Danika Clark
• September 28, 2023

Chiang Mai, Thailand saw over 10.8 million tourists in 2019. This tourist hub city is popular for a reason, it’s a cultural hub of Thailand! But, many don’t take the time to explore the surrounding area of this amazing city.

After spending over a year living and working in Chiang Mai, I completed my fair share of day trips from Chiang Mai. Some of which, I learned through my local Thai friends. I got to know this city pretty well and today I’d love to share with you my favorite spots around Northern Thailand.

Table of Contents

20 best day trips from chiang mai, mae sa waterfall.

The first on the list of best day trips from Chiang Mai is Mae Sa Waterfall. This beautiful waterfall is a quick 35-minute drive from the center of the old town of Chiang Mai. The waterfall consists of several tiers, the first one being a good spot to swim and relax, if the weather is right. They have bathroom facilities and clean boardwalks to explore the falls. 

The Mae Sa Waterfall is known for its natural beauty, featuring multiple cascades and pools set against a backdrop of tropical rainforests. The lush surroundings make it a great spot for photography, picnics, and nature enthusiasts.

The best time to visit here is during the rainy season because it’s when the waterfall will be at its fullest. The easiest way to get here is to rent a motorbike or songtaew for the day.

Mae Sa Waterfall is located inside of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, which means there is an entrance fee. If you’re not from Thailand, you will pay more as well, as this is a standard practice in Thailand.

Sticky Waterfall

Pack your bathing suits because Sticky Waterfall is one of the most popular day trips from Chiang Mai. This unique waterfall works in reverse, you get to climb up the waterfall! Located in the Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park, it’s easy to spend a half-day here exploring the waterfall.

This waterfall isn’t actually “sticky”. It gets its name because of the rock’s grip. The rock is made with minerals that allow it to be non-slip. There are over 3 layers to this beautiful white rock to climb.

This day trip is so much fun, and also best done during the rainy season. Once you arrive, there’s so much to do! You can spend hours playing in the waterfall, enjoy a quiet nature trail, and explore caves!

To get here, it’s best to rent a songtaew for the day to drive you. It’s over a 1-hour drive on a main highway and then through a dense forest.

Doi Inthanon National Park Summit

When googling “things to do in Chiang Mai” pictures of the Doi Inthanon National Park Summit are the first to come up. Doi Inthanon National Park is home to the tallest peak in Thailand, and you can drive there!

This easily accessible mountain summit is one of the top day trips from Chiang Mai. Here, you can see vast views of mountains, explore beautiful gardens, hike, and walk along beautiful nature boardwalks.

When visiting, make sure to see the King and Queen’s Pagoda and wear temple-appropriate attire. Additionally, since this is in a national park, there are lots of waterfalls and trekking around. A day trip here is a full day of fun!

Huay Tung Tao Lake  

This interesting day trip from Chiang Mai is a local spot just outside the city, about 45 minutes on motorbike. At Huay Tung Tao Lake, you can find sculptures of interesting animals that you can climb in, relax and swim in lakes, and go on a great hike to see the beautiful Huay Tung Tao Waterfall.

This day trip can easily be completed on a motorbike.

When visiting here, I recommend starting early with a hike up to Huay Tung Tao. This hike is a moderate hike that takes about 2 hours to complete. Once you’re at the top, you are rewarded with a tall waterfall that is great for pictures!

After you’ve completed your hike, on your drive back to Chiang Mai you will notice lots of little huts along the lake. This is actually a restaurant! This restaurant is super Thai, and little English is spoken, but it’s lovely! 

Have a seat in any of the small huts and enjoy your lunch along the water. However, you may need Google Translate to help you order your meal.

The obvious day trip from Chiang Mai is to summit Doi Suthep. Doi Suthep is a Thai temple on top of the closest mountain to the city. Although it feels like it’s close to the city, it’s actually about a 45-minute drive up to the top!

This is one of the top tourist attractions in Chiang Mai, with reason. I mean this place is stunning! I visited multiple times when I lived in Chiang Mai for a year. But, for the best experience, visit at sunrise.

Sunrise at Doi Suthep can be done alone or via a guided tour. Visiting at sunrise, you avoid all of the crowds and get to see the sun rise over a beautiful city in the morning. It is truly magical.

Once you’re at the top, you can explore the village, and souvenir shop and grab a bite to eat. It’s a relaxing atmosphere and easily a half-day activity.

Doi Inthanon Karen Hilltribe Tour

Northern Thailand is famous for its hill tribes. There are many of these tribes that live high up in the mountains and are cut off from the outside world, for the most part. In these hill tribes, they have their own tribal language and culture.

I had the amazing opportunity to do an overnight trip to the Karen Hilltribes, where I made a good friend, and visited him and his family frequently up there. I couldn’t recommend this experience more.

There are many tours that take you up to the top of the mountains to learn about the tribes. It’s best to go on a tour, and not alone. Going on a tour you are actively supporting the tribe and going alone is difficult to find.

I did my tour with this company  and really enjoyed it.

Elephant Nature Park

A must-do on the list of day trips from Chiang Mai, seeing elephants is on most tourists’ bucket lists when visiting Chiang Mai!

Chiang Mai has lots of different companies and elephant parks to choose from. It’s important to choose an elephant park that practices good care for the elephants. Elephant Nature Park is a great example of a company that takes care of the elephants. This elephant sanctuary lets you touch the elephants, take photos, and teaches you the conservation of elephants.

Did you know there are as little as 3,500 elephants left in the wild in Thailand? Learning about them can help us protect them.

Many of the elephant Nature Parks are within a 1-2 hour drive from Chiang Mai, and take almost a full day’s adventure. For this day trip, the elephant sanctuary will pick you up from your accommodation and drop you back off in the evening.

Be sure to pack a bathing suit for this day trip from Chiang Mai!

Mae Sa Valley

Mae Sa Valley is an epic motorbike loop just north of Chiang Mai. Think the Ha Giang Loop of Vietnam, but on a smaller scale.

To do this day trip, you’ll want to be comfortable riding a motorbike. You’ll go north of Chiang Mai, towards Mae Rim, and follow the big Mae Sa Valley Loop.

During this motorbike route, you’ll see epic mountain views, small villages, loads of cafes, and places to stop and hike. I recommend doing more research on this loop if you plan on doing it. It will take you to some pretty remote parts of Northern Thailand, and you’ll want to know where you’re going. There’s also loads of hiking in the area, so plan these in advance!

This loop will be a full-day adventure including your stops along the way. This is one of my favorite day trips from Chiang Mai, as you really get a feel for Northern Thail culture here!

Chiang Rai Day Trip from Chiang Mai is possible, but it makes for a long day. This trip is best to do on a weekend, but if you only have a day, there are many tours that provide this .

To begin, you wake up early in the morning and drive to Chiang Rai. Chiang Rai is home to the beautiful White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black Temple. These temples are so unique and worth a visit just to take a picture. Be aware, the white temple gets especially crowded in the middle of the day!

Also during your tour, they may take you to see a hill tribe and/or to the Golden Triangle. The Golden Triangle is where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. You can take a boat ride on the Mekong River. It’s pretty neat, but I don’t think it’s worth the extra driving.

A Chiang Rai Day Trip from Chiang Mai is one of the most popular day trips from Chiang Mai, but it will be an exhausting day!

The Grand Canyon

Looking for a fun and unique day trip from Chiang Mai?! The Grand Canyon in Chiang Mai is a water park based on the Grand Canyon in America! This silly day trip is a fun way to relax and just have fun! Here you can play on inflatables, go swimming, or just relax in the atmosphere.

The best way to get here is by a songtaew or drive your own motorbike. The Grand Canyon is a bit expensive, but it’s well worth it for the fun!

A Chiang Mai to Pai day trip is a massive undertaking, but it can be done. Pai is a popular hippie town in Northern Thailand. Many backpackers come here to unplug and have a good time. It’s a great spot to relax in the nature of Northern Thailand, but it’s a bit far.

If you plan to take a day trip from Chiang Mai to Pai, you’ll want to have an early start, the earlier the better! Pai is about a 3-4 hour bus ride away from Chiang Mai through curvy mountain roads. 

The best way to get to Pai is on a bus, but you can drive your motorbike too if you’d like. Many say driving your motorbike to Pai is very dangerous though. The bus system works really well, and efficiently, and lots of people do it. They run very regularly!

Once you are in Pai, you’ll have enough time to explore the small town and maybe do one small activity.

Although Pai can be done in a day trip, it’s best done with at least 2 nights.

White Water Rafting on the Mae Tang River

Ready for adventure? Spend your time in Chiang Mai White Water Rafting on the Mae Tang River! This adventure takes place north of Chiang Mai and is easily paired with another activity in the area. White Water Rafting here is a fun and cheap activity to do in Northern Thailand!

To white water raft, you can book it online here or drive your motorbike to a spot along the river. (!!! LINK!!!)

Skyline Jungle Luge Ziplining

The best day trips from Chiang Mai can be the least expected ones. Ziplining in Northern Thailand is a fun experience for everyone while visiting Thailand! The northern Thailand mountains are beautiful, with lots of diverse insects, animals, and plants. Zip through these dense forests on your day at Skyline Jungle Luge. 

Additionally, here you can luge, or go-kart, around the area! The best part of this tour is they will pick you up and drop you off at your accommodations! Visit their website to learn more. https://skylinejungleluge.com/

A local hidden gem, Chiang Dao is absolutely a must-do when visiting Chiang Mai.

I visited Chiang Dao twice during my year in Chiang Mai and loved each visit. This small rural town is known for its famous mountain, Chiang Dao, and nature trails. Here, you can get out of the city bustle and away from backpackers for a local experience.

Chiang Dao is referred to as the local Pai. Many tourists visit Pai, but the locals go to Chaing Dao. In Chiang Dao, you can go camping, hiking, and swimming in hot springs. But the main attraction is the impressive Chiang Dao Caves.

The Chiang Dao caves are a popular day trip from Chiang Mai. These caves are impressive and you can choose to tour it at your own pace or pay a guide to take you deeper into the caves.

To get to Chiang Dao, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive through the mountains. This can be done on a motorbike, but it’s best to take a public bus or tour. There are many police checkpoints along the route.

Lampang is a smaller town just south of Chiang Mai, that makes for a perfect day trip from Chiang Mai. This town is a very local, but it is decently sized. This city is known for its culture and beautiful temples. What I love about here is that it’s very walkable.

This charming and tourist-free town is known for its big Thai festivals! Lampang has many Thai parades throughout the year that are done really well! It also is very famous for the Lantern Festival. Here, they line the streets with colorful lanterns above your head. This impressive display is unlike anything in Chiang Mai, and definitely worth a visit.

Mae Ya Waterfall

Located in Doi Inthanon National Park, Mae Ya Waterfall is one of the best day trips from Chiang Mai. There are a lot of awesome waterfalls in Thailand, but this one is my favorite! This waterfall is stunning and it’s really easy to access.

Many tours will take you to this waterfall and allow you some time to visit it on your own. If you have a motorbike, it’s also an easy drive! This hour-and-a-half drive is along a main highway and then leads you through the mountains. Once you arrive there is a restaurant and facilities. It’s also inside a national park, so expect to pay a fee.

The grounds are well-maintained and the small walk to the waterfall is really fun and beautiful! Out of all the waterfalls I saw in Thailand (and I saw a lot), this one is my favorite!

Waing Kum Kam

This historic part of Chiang Mai is a quick 15-20 minute drive south of Chiang Mai. Nestled along the Ping River, this historic Buddhist temple is rich in history. 

Wiang Kum Kam was the first capital of the Lanna Kingdom (Kingdom of Lan Na), which was a historical kingdom in Northern Thailand and parts of Myanmar, Laos, and China. The city,established in the 13th century, was abandoned due to flooding and other issues. It was then discovered again in the 1980s, and archeologists have discovered many ruins here. 

Waing Kum Kam is restored and open to visitors today. If you plan to visit, double-check the hours. Here you can be transported into the rich history of northern Thailand.

While you’re nearby, it’s worth checking out some other temples in the area too!

North of Chiang Mai, about 30 minutes, is Mae Rim. Mae Rim is a tropical and relaxed town. It also is the gateway to many elephant sanctuaries and the Mae Sa Valley loop. Although there are many fun and exciting activities in the area, you may want to stop by the town. The town is slow-paced and relaxed.

Here you can visit the Queen’s Sirikit Botanical Garden, and the Siam Insect Zoo, or visit many temples. Each of these attractions is a nice way to get out of the crowds on Chiang Mai and enjoy a half-day or full-day adventure.

Wat Umong and Baan Kang Wat Artist’s Village

20 minutes south of Chiang Mai you will find Wat Umong and Baan Kang Wat. These day trips from Chiang Mai are some of my favorite, and one I did many times while living here!

Wat Umong is a famous temple in Chiang Mai because of its unique placement. This temple is underground, where you can explore caves, see bats, and walk through lush green forests. This is one of my favorite temples in the area because of its unique features.

Just down the street from Wat Umong you will find Baan Kang Wat Artist’s Village. This area is like one big arts and crafts fair. Here you will find stores to buy hand-made crafts, take art lessons, relax in cafes, and more. From pottery to watercolor, to keychain making, there is a lot to learn here.

Khun Tan Train Station 

Last, but not least, a spot on our day trips from Chiang Mai list is Khun Tan Train Station!

Head to the Chiang Mai train station and catch the train towards Lamphun. You’ll want to book this in advance online or talk to the train operator upon arrival. 

Exit the train at Khun Tan Train Station. Khun Tan Railway Station is particularly famous for its stunning viaduct, the Khun Tan Viaduct, which is one of the longest viaducts in Thailand and offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountainous terrain.

This spot is famous for its scenic train rides and photographers. The dramatic architecture of the train tunnel is worth visiting.

Additionally, when you arrive there is some hiking as well! Head into the Khun Tan National Park to walk around in nature and have a bit of a hike.

At this railway station, there are a few restaurants for you to eat at, but you’ll want to start walking along the roads to find your own fun!

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai

In conclusion, there are the top 20 best day trips from Chiang Mai, Thailand! After having spent over 1 year in Chiang Mai, I had lots of time to explore all these wonderful places.

Northern Thailand is a special region in Thailand, one rich in history, beautiful landscapes, and a slower-paced life. I hope this list inspires you to get out of the tourist-centered city, and out to some traditional Thai spots, some that only locals know about!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.

I’m Danika! A travel obsessed, Disney adult, with a knack for budgeting.

In 2020 I was furlough from my “dream” job at Disney and have pursued my first love of travel ever since. I have traveled to 33 states and 28 countries spanning 5 continents.

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The 10 Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai in northern Thailand is filled with scenic landscapes, traditional culture, incredible architecture and friendly locals, so it seems only fitting that there is a multitude of incredible tours and day trips from Chiang Mai to choose from.

We’ve created this list of our favorite things to do near Chiang Mai and our best 10 Chang Mai Day trips where you can discover ancient temples, national parks, waterfalls, Thai animals, ancient cities, and visit the hill tribes of the Golden Triangle.

Here is the list of the best day trips from Chiang Mai.

Also, check out our guide to fun things to do in Chiang Mai!

1. Chiang Rai and Golden Triangle Day Trip

Be a part of the countryside in Northern Thailand as you cross the border to Laos for a full-day tour of Chiang Rai and the Buddhist temples that reside here.

First, stop by the hot springs in Mae Kajan and soak your feet in the healing waters before embarking on the journey to the temple of Wat Rong Khun.

Here, you will find a magnificent building with a sublime white exterior inlaid with mirrored glass.

The rest of the trip involves entering the“ Golden Triangle ” in the city of Chiang Saen. Here, you will find markets, museums and delicious restaurants.

Plus, visit the hill tribe village and embrace the sense of community that is ever-present in Thailand.

Book this Chiang Rai and Golden Triangle Day Trip Here NOW!

2. 3 Experiences Day Trip

Obsessed with wildlife? This Elephant Sanctuary tour is a must-visit. This tour is three unique experiences all combined into one day. 

Begin the 10-12 hour tour by visiting the elephant sanctuary and have the once in a lifetime opportunity to see these amazing creatures up close.

After you have taken in the incredible beauty of these creatures, you will head off to explore Doi Inthano. Here, you will find the highest point in Thailand, and you will be greeted with magnificent views.

Later in the day, nature lovers will be amazed at the final part of this tour.

Become soaked in the rich nature of the Pha Dok Siew trail where you will not only be subjected to unusual wildlife, but you will also get to see the most amazing waterfall.

Click here for more information on 3 Experiences day trip!

3. National Park Half Day Trip from Chiang Mai

From panoramic views of the mountains to fantastic local markets and National Parks, this nine-hour tour will allow you to see so much of what Chiang Mai has to offer. 

Find yourself venturing to the top of Doi Inthanon National Park to see Thailand’s highest mountain and the shrine of King Intharawichayanont. 

Then get those feel-good endorphins pumping with a short hike along the Angkha Nature Trail before visiting the local market and restaurants for a delicious lunch. 

Before heading back, you will also get to visit the Karen Hill tribe village and marvel at the Vachiratharn Waterfall. 

Book the Inthanon National Park 9-Hour Group Tour Here NOW!

4. Customize Your Own Private Chiang Rai Tour

Do you want to decide on exactly which attractions you get to see whilst having a personal driver and guide to answer any questions you have? Then this private day trip is ideal for you. 

Choose from three to four city attractions and explore them in your own time.

Add attractions such as the Khun Korn Waterfall and the White Temple to learn about Thailand’s heritage.

Or, visit the Northern city of Chiang Rai where indigenous villages, charming streets and traditional markets can be found.

If you’d like ot get a bird’s eye view of the city and see some magnificent temples and perhaps even do some hiking, nearby Doi Inthanon National Park can easily be part of a full or half-day day trip.

Throughout this tour, you will gain personal insight from an expert guide on historical details, cultural elements and community stories for a totally immersive experience.

Customize Your Own Private Chiang Rai Tour Here NOW!

5. Day Trekking Full Day Trip from Chiang Mai

Day trips from Chiang Mai also have unique experiences that can’t be replicated elsewhere, for example, discover the spectacular caves of Chiang Dao on this Thailand day trip. 

Here, you will carry gas lanterns as you climb through the five limestone caverns that have been produced underneath the mountains. 

After the cave exploration, you will indulge in a delicious local market meal made with fresh produce and locally grown ingredients for a revitalising meal.

Plus, climb the most unique waterfall in Thailand, Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall, and discover the stunning landscape surrounding this wonder of nature.

Book your Chiang Dao Cave Trekking Full-Day Tour Here NOW!

6. Guided Day Trip from Chiang Mai

This day trip from Chiang Mai is jam-packed with attractions. This tour is perfect for those that want to understand the history that remains in Chiang Mai and those who love to see the sights that the locations that they visit have to offer. 

Spend the day exploring iconic attractions such as The White Temple, the Big Buddha statue (which you can go inside to have a lunch break), the Black House Museum and the Blue Temple which has the most incredible murals. 

You also have the option to visit Karen Village where you can wear traditional clothing, make crafts with locals and steep yourself in the Thailand culture.

Book your Chiang Rai Guided Day Trip Here NOW!

7. Sukhothai Heritage Tour

Customize your own 12-hour half day trip from Chiang Mai to Sukhothai and explore many of the ancient temples and palaces along the way. 

Create your own travel itinerary and choose up to four attractions with this tour. Plus, have a personal driver who will take you straight from your hotel to each attraction.

You can even add a personal guide to educate you on the history of Thailand. 

Some of the best attractions to consider are the stunning Sukhothai Historical Park, Wat Traphang Ngoen and the Wat Chang Lom Ancient Remains where 32 elephant sculptures surround the main structure.

Book Your Own Sukhothai Heritage Tour Here NOW!

8. Lampang Temples Tour

This Lampang Temples tour is filled with exciting activities, including riding a horse cart through the town!

This off the beaten track experience takes you through various areas of Thailand. The first stop is Wat Phra That Lampang Luang which is filled with wonderful Lanna-style architecture. 

Then, take a horse cart past the Wang River and head to Chammathewi Temple where you can find the famous “stepped pyramid” and various other attractions.

Book your Lamphun and Lampang Temples Tour Here NOW!

9. Chiang Mai Hike & Bike Day Trip

Looking for an active activity? This hike and bike day trip is perfect for those seeking adventure.

The five-kilometre walk is guided by a local and you will discover nature you have never seen before. You will see blooming flora and fauna, juicy fruit orchards and locals going about their everyday tasks. 

After the walk, you will refuel at a local private house restaurant, before embarking on a 20-kilometre cycling trip that takes you through the scenic Thailand countryside, rice fields and rural roads with panoramic views.

After soaking in all that Thailand has to offer in terms of natural beauty you can head to another restaurant to relax and unwind before being transferred back to your hotel

 10. Chiang Rai Temples Tour

When considering things to do near Chiang Mai you should seriously consider this private Chaing Mai tour.

Your day will be filled with panoramic views, spectacular architecture and immersive activities.

Along the trip, you will discover the Mae Khachan Hot Springs where you can relax in the gardens whilst dipping your feet into steaming mineral water.

Next up you’ll pass The White Temple, which is a modern architectural attraction built by a local artist.

Then you’ll visit the Wat Rong Seua Ten (the temple of the dancing tiger), where a fantastic blue and gold temple awaits you. 

Before the day ends, you will make your way to Baan Dam Museum (Black House Museum) where you will find animal exhibits that encapsulate the history of Chiang Mai with its natural environment.

Book your Chiang Rai Temples Group/Private Tour Here NOW!

Bonus Full and Half-Day Day Trips from Chiang Mai City

If you don’t want to spend a whole day seeing outside of the city or don’t want the expense of a tour, consider these nearby attractions, some of which are in the Doi Inthanon National Park.

• Elephant Nature Park
• Chiang Dao – why not stay the night?!
• Mae Sa Waterfall (near the Queen Sirikit Botanical gardens)
• the ancient city of Lamphun (south of Chiang Mai, formed from the remanants of the Mon Kingdon and then the Lanna Kingdom)
• Tubing down the Pai river through the jungle

Related articles: Best Things to Do In Chiang Mai At Night The 10 Best Chiang Mai Food Tours and Experiences Our Self-Drive Tuk Tuk Tour in Chiang Mai Chiang Mai Street Food: The 8 Best Cheap Eat Spots

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Chiang Mai as a city offers mostly markets and temples, so if you come here and plan to stay for more than just a few days you will need some ideas for the things to see and do. There are a lot of options for day trips around Chiang Mai to keep you busy.

Most excursions can be done by a motorbike. You can also buy a tour from one of the operating tourist offices in the city, or hire a songthaew driver to take you to your chosen destination. Here are my favourite 6 options for day trips around Chiang Mai.

1. Mae Sa Waterfall and Botanic Gardens

Mae Sa Waterfall is a place that is becoming more and more popular with tourists. A songthaew here costs around 500 Baht, but the site is easily accessible by a motorbike, too. The road here goes through some really busy parts and turns left to take you a little away from the traffic. From there it is a very pleasant ride. Before you reach the waterfall you will pass at least one elephant park and a place, where you can see monkeys riding bikes and performing other tricks. I will leave this to your own choice, but if you love animals I would avoid both of these places (please see the Elephant Nature Park section below).

The entrance to the waterfall is clearly marked and it is impossible to miss it. There are several food stalls in the parking area as well as shops, selling all kinds of souvenirs. The climb to the waterfall is not too hard, but not too easy either. There are 10 different levels for you to enjoy. The top of the waterfall is too dangerous to swim, but you can enjoy the cool water on level 5, where you can find some good spots for a picnic.

• Entrance Fee:  100 Baht, plus 20 Baht for a motorbike.
• Opening hours: 8am – 5pm
• Directions: From the north side of the city take the Changpuek Road. Cross the superhighway towards Mae Rim. Continue north on highway 107 for about 13 kilometres. After you reach Mae Rim, drive for another 1 km. You will see a sign for a waterfall. Turn left onto 1096. After about 5 km you will reach the entrance to the waterfall.

If you continue to drive up the hill from the Mae Sa Waterfall after around 20-30 minutes you will reach the Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens . I am not a big fan of plants in general, but it is always nice to have a look at different exotic trees and flowers. The Botanic Gardens are quite big and you might be advised to drive your motorbike instead of walking. There are some pretty hills with benches for you to enjoy the views.

The main part includes some greenhouses, fountains, ponds with fish and the most amazing orchids and lilies I have seen in my life. There is also a viewpoint, which might not be that impressive, but it’s still nice to enjoy the serenity.

• Entrance fee: 100 Baht
• Opening hours: 08:30AM-4:30PM

After you visit the gardens and have some time to spare drive further up the hill. The air will become cooler and you will see less and less buildings, cars and people. After a while, you will reach a nice viewpoint, where you can take a rest and think of your next destination. Many visitors continue to drive further to Samoeng, where they can stay overnight or follow the signs to Chiang Mai, completing so-called Samoeng Loop .

2. Mon Cham and Project Nong Hoi

When you pass the Botanic Garden and follow the road for another few kilometres, you will see signs pointing to Mon Cham. This is a small village on a top of the mountain, where you will find Nong Hoi Project. It’s a small garden, where minorities from the area grow their vegetables and fruit. You can spend a whole day here admiring the views and enjoying delicious, fresh, local cuisine from the restaurant, located right in the middle of the garden.

You can read more about Mon Cham and Nong Hoi here. 

• Entrance fee: free
• Opening times: 8am – 5pm

3. Sticky Waterfall

Another great idea for a day trip around Chiang Mai and from its pollution. I have written everything you need to know about this site here . This waterfall is not as impressive, but the climbing up its sticky rocks and the roads leading to the site make it worth the drive.

You can get there by scooter, or taxi, or hire a local guide. You can book your trip with Take Me Tour , which is an amazing company that allows local people work as guides. I used them for my trip to China Town in Bangkok and I must say that was very happy with their service and the quality of the trip. You really get a great experience at a very affordable price. Just visit their website and book one of their tours. They offer a great array of trips both in Bangkok and in Chiang Mai.

• Entrance: Free
• Opening hours: 24/7

Are you looking for a local guide? Are you after an interesting tour?

TakeMeTour connects local guides with tourists and creates unique tours in South East Asia.

Spend a day with your private guide, find out more about the country and make new friends.

4. Elephant Nature Park

This is an opportunity for you to do something good. Elephant Nature Park was established by a lady called Lek, who rescues elephants from logging and tourist industries. It is not allowed to ride elephants here and you learn why during your day at the site. Elephants are beaten and tortured before they are used to beg on the streets or to entertain tourists.

Very often they are injured and get sick. Their young ones are taken from them at a very early age causing a huge distress to the mother and the child. Lek travels all over Thailand and provides care for the sick animals and, if she can take over from the owners, she takes the elephants to her sanctuary, where they can roam free. At Elephant Nature Park, the tourists have an opportunity to walk with the elephants, feed them and even bath them in the river. It is a fun, informative day. There is nothing more exciting than getting so close to an exotic animal.

Lunch is provided and during the free hour, you can watch a documentary on Lek’s work. The only way to spend the time with the elephants is to book a trip with the Park directly. You can do it online, or at their office, which is just next to the Tae Pae Gate. There are different packages to choose from.

The cheapest option is 2,500 Baht, which also includes the lunch and transportation. Pick up from your accommodation is around 08:30 am and you will be back in Chiang Mai around 5:30 pm.  Their website, including prices and volunteering options:  http://www.elephantnaturepark.org/

Recently a few more elephant sanctuaries have been created in Chiang Mai. If you can’t book a place with Elephant Nature Park, you can try a different centre. Book your trip with Take Me Tour , where you get a genuine, local experience. Take Me Tour organises trips with local guides, who work independently. This way you can avoid organised tours and enjoy something truly unique.

5. Huay Tung Tao Lake

Huay Tung Tao Lake is my favourite place for a short trip around Chiang Mai and I visit it quite often, especially on a weekend. The lake is a short motorbike ride from Chiang Mai. I have not seen songthaews driving here, but I am sure you can hire one for a day if you need to. However, driving a motorbike to and around the Huay Tung Tao Lake is more than pleasant.

The water is surrounded by the mountains and the sight is beautiful no matter what time of the year it is. There are several bars around the lake with small, bamboo huts. You can eat some local food here, including fried frog, and drink some beers or whiskey. It is allowed to swim in the lake. The water is murky, but it is clean and you will see many locals having fun in the water on a hot day. There are tubes available, too if you fancy floating around.

• Entrance fee:  50 Baht
• Opening hours: 10 am – around 6:00 pm
• Directions: Drive on Huay Kao Road (road number 1004), past Maya Mall on your right, until you reach an intersection. Take the road 121 and drive for around 7 km. Pass 700 Years Stadium. You will see a sign to the lake. Turn left and drive for another 2 km.

6. Chiang Dao and Chiang Dao Cave

Chiang Dao is a bit further away and it takes around 2 hours to get there, so leave early in the morning. You can also take a local bus from Chiang Mai, from the northern bus station. I like this little town because it’s quiet and it seems like it is an undiscovered gem. Don’t get discouraged by the town itself, as it seems quite uninteresting. Head towards the Chiang Dao Cave for the beautiful view of the mountains and some nice places to drink coffee. The cave itself is impressive and one of the best ones I have seen so far.

• Entrance fee:  40 Baht, but you will need to pay 100 Baht to hire a gas lantern and tip the guide (it is advisable to hire one as the cave is huge and you can easily get lost).
• Opening hours: 8AM-5PM
• Directions: It’s easy. Just get on the road 107 and drive straight until you reach the town. To get to the cave, look out for a sign that will point you to the left and follow that road.

7. The Giant Cafe

This is a place my good friend Chris (who took these lovely photos and has a very nice blog, too ) and I have discovered recently. It is a coffee shop set up on a huge tree, overlooking the mountains and forests.

I don’t think I liked it as much as the roads leading to it. The Giant is located 2 hours outside of Chiang Mai, and it is hidden deep in the mountains. On your way, you will pass some very picturesque villages with traditional Thai style houses, green gardens, small waterfalls and streams. This is Thailand you need to see!

There are small gas stations on the way, a lot of small, local shops to buy water from, and some places to eat too. You can also stay overnight in one of the fancy looking bungalows. Due to its remote location I think it’s impossible to hire a taxi to take you there, so the only option is either car or a motorbike. Be careful though, as the roads are pretty steep and it can be dangerous during the rainy season.

• Opening hours: The Giant closes at 3:00 pm.
• Directions: Take the superhighway towards Chiang Rai, follow the road 1001, which after a while turns into road number 118. Follow that road. Turn right onto 3005 and follow it for about 30 minutes. You will get to an intersection, where you will see a sign for the Giant Cafe. From there follow the road all the way up.

8. Doi Suthep and Doi Pui

Doi Suthep with its famous temple Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is well known and a must visit among first-time visitors to Chiang Mai. It’s a fairly easy ride up the mountains. On the way, don’t miss various viewpoints and Wat Pha Lat – a very quiet, beautiful temple, hidden in the jungle.

Chiang Mai Ebook Guide – My handy ebook guide includes everything you need to know about Chiang Mai, from the best sights to see to the best places to eat and stay. Save money with exclusive discounts and make the most of your trip! Find out more

After visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, continue up towards the Phuping Palace. You can stop here for a quick look at the gardens. After that, the road becomes narrower and a bit more dangerous, so drive slowly. Here you can also stop at one of the viewpoints, drink a coffee at the Faculty of Agriculture of Chiang Mai University and then continue straight for 3 km to Doi Pui and a little village hidden on the top of the mountain. It’s a nice, pleasant ride and a great option if you want to escape the city.

9. Mae Ngat Dam and the Blue Temple

Mae Ngat Dam is located around an hour drive from Chiang Mai. It is a beautiful, quiet spot, surrounded by nature. Most know it for the floating bamboo houses. It’s such a great attraction. For around 2,000 Baht (a hefty rate for Thailand, but you can split it with a group of friends) you can spend a night on the water. A long tail boat takes you there and leaves you until the next morning. There are restaurants that sell food and drinks and you can go kayaking and swimming during the day. If you don’t want to stay overnight, then you can go for a half day trip. You then only pay for the boat.

I went there a couple of years ago with a group of friends and we spent a day and one night on the water. It was a great trip. We all loved it. The second time I was taken by Take Me Tour with a local guide . We had lunch and stayed 2-3 hours on a floating bungalow – raft.

• Entrance: 20 Baht for entering the national park, 600 Baht for the boat, 2000 Baht for a bungalow.
• Directions: From Chiang Mai take the road 107. Turn right into the road 3038.

On your way to the Mae Ngat Dam, you can visit the Blue Temple , which is only 10 minutes away. It is quite an interesting piece of architecture. It’s a modern complex of buildings and the decor is colorful, rich and I’m sure that there are no other temples like this one in Thailand. The entrance is free and you can enjoy this peaceful place as long as you wish.

5 hidden gems in Chiang Mai

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden: Beautiful flowers and Thailand’s longest canopy walkway

Samoeng Loop and Mae Sa Valley: A day trip outside of Chiang Mai

9 places to see in Pai

Muang On Cave and Viewpoint: Exploring the heights and depths of the mountain

Doi Inthanon: Road Trip to Thailand’s Highest Mountain

The 10 Best Day Trips From Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai , the capital of northern Thailand, is one of the must-see destinations on any trip to the land of smiles. Northern Thailand has many beautiful places to visit and activities to enjoy. You can travel through the north by sleeping in various destinations, or staying in Chiang Mai as a base camp from which to take excursions . This last option is cheaper, and ideal for those who travel for between 10 and 15 days and are want to discover both the capital, the north and the southern beaches. So today we’ll share with you our pick of the 10 best day trips from Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai offers a wide range of activities to do. There are many interesting temples and a historic center, surrounded by the old moat, which is a pleasure to stroll around. There are also several markets, such as Warorot, the main central market, or the Night Bazar , the tourist night market, which is open every evening. On weekends you will find two even more interesting night markets: the Saturday Night Market and, best of all, the Sunday Night Market . However, it is highly recommended to save some time (ideally a few days) to explore the surrounding area and enjoy some of the best day trips from Chiang Mai.

Getting to Chiang Mai is very easy, as there are more than 50 daily flights ( Air Asia , Nok Air , Lion Air , Thai Smile , Bangkok Airways , etc.). For those who want to arrive in a more romantic and adventurous way, you have the option of traveling on the night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai . Many daily buses bound for Chiang Mai depart from Bangkok’s North Station, Mo Chit Bus Station, although the bus ride takes 10-12h.

The 10 Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai

Day trips in Chiang Mai can be booked online in advance, or at any tour agency once you get in the city. Yo can do many of these best day trips from Chiang Mai on your own (basically those that are not adventure sports like quads or rafting), but you will need to rent a vehicle.

Here you can find:

Mount Doi Suthep

Distance : 25 kms by car / 10 kms on foot (unevenness of 730 meters) Ideal for : First trip to Thailand

If you visit in the evening, in addition to hearing the monks chanting, you will enjoy the most pleasant views of Chiang Mai and its valley. Doi Suthep isn’t just one of the best day trips from Chiang Mai: it is just unmissable. This excursion can easily be combined with the Doi Pui area.

► Day tour to the temples of Chiang Mai, including Doi Suthep, with InThailand Travel .

• Doi Inthanon National Park

Distance : 110 kms Ideal for : Getting in touch with nature

On the way to the top, it is common to stop at one of the many large and accessible waterfalls, such as the massive Wachirathan . There are several tribal villages within the Park, and you’ll probably visit a small local market. One of the best experiences is to take a short hike of 1h-2h through the forest, walking alongside rivers, rice fields and even a local village. The Doi Inthanon tours offered by Chiang Mai tour agencies generally don’t include any of these hikes. Admission to the Park is THB 300.

► More information for going by yourself to Doi Inthanon . ► Day tour to Doi Inthanon National Park with InThailand Travel .

Elephant’s Nature Park

Distance : 75 kms Best for : Learning about Thai elephants

One of the most famous and recommended is Elephant’s Nature Park . The elephants who live there were rescued from the streets, from field labour, or other camps where they had to ride tourists on their backs. Here they don’t, they just wander around and do as they please. Besides observing them from very close, visitors can feed them and help bathe them in the river. Don’t visit if you still have any moral objection, but for many travelers this is one of the best day trips from Chiang Mai.

► Book from their website . A one-day visit costs 2,500 THB (€ 65).

Chiang Dao Caves

Distance : 75 kms Ideal for : Those who spend many days in the north

► Route from Chiang Mai on Google Maps .

Sankampaeng artisan village

Distance : 25 kms Ideal for : Shopping lovers

As I mentioned, it is mostly a place for foreign tourists , although Thais from other provinces also flock to go mainly in search of paper umbrellas.

Trekking, rafting and quads

Distance : Depending on where you go Ideal for : Those looking for adventure

A real rafting is what you can see in the picture above, and it can also be done in Chiang Mai. Mae Tang River has several rapids in which you can enjoy authentic rafting for about 10 kms , with options for different levels of difficulty, which vary according to the season and river conditions. One of the most recommended operators, with whom we collaborate at InThailand Travel , is 8 Adventures . In addition to rafting they offer trekking and Quads.

► 8 Adventures website .

Distance : 60 kms Ideal for : Those looking for adventure under control

The most famous zip lines park is Flight of the Gibbon , an hour from Chiang Mai. It costs about 4,200 THB per person. Another one, not so famous but also with a good reputation and somewhat cheaper, is Jungle Fly . Starts at 2,100 THB per person. Before deciding which option to book, it is advisable to inquire about the number and length of zip lines included.

► Flight of the Gibbon website . ► Jungle Fly website .

Distance : 200 kms Ideal for : Those who do not mind driving many kms in a day

There is not much to see along the way, but you can split the road trip by stopping at the roadside hot springs to stretch and soak your legs. Once in Chiang Rai, in addition to the White Temple and the Black House , you can also visit the new Blue Temple . But while this is arguably one of the best day trips from Chiang Mai, if you have enough time, it is much better to take a few days to explore Chiang Rai province without rushing. It is really worth it.

► More info about Chiang Rai .

• Mae Kampong

Distance : 50 kms Ideal for : Those looking for forests and tranquility near Chiang Mai

► More info about Mae Kampong .

Mount Mon Jam (or Mon Cham)

Distance : 40 kms Ideal for : Tranquility and nature in an ethnic area

The temperatures here are always lower than in Chiang Mai, and that is another of the main reasons why Thais like it so much. At the hilltop, there are some small restaurants and cafes made of bamboo. Arriving at Mon Jam you will find the beautiful Onsen@Monjam Resort , with Japanese-style hot springs. To go to Mon Jam you must use your own means of transport, either rent a car or motorcycle, or use a taxi or songthaew (red trucks).

Do you know of any other interesting excursions that should be included in this list of best day trips from Chiang Mai? Tell us and we will add it 😉

If you are going to visit the capital of Thailand, have a look at our Best Day Trips from Bangkok .

Pol Comaposada

Pol has been traveling and creating content about Thailand and others parts of Asia since 2010. Founder and manager of Mundo Nómada Travel, a DMC (tour operator) with office in Bangkok that offers high quality tours and tailor-made packages in Thailand.

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21 Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai

The land of magic, spirituality, Northern Thai culture and the most astonishing natural beauty, it’s time to get lost in lush Chiang Mai !

Picture mesmerizing waterfalls, fairy-like lagoons that look like they belong in fantasy novels, rice terraces overshadowed by pink cherry blossoms and glistening mountaintop temples reaching for the heavens.

You’ll have a hard time deciding which of the best day trips from Chiang Mai to choose!

Spend the day exploring national parks, hiking some of the highest peaks in Thailand, visiting ethnic villages and hill tribes for a cultural fix, chasing the sunrise, and enjoying a cup of coffee with your head in the clouds — literally!

Enter mystical caves shrouded in local legends or ones as shrines, and on that note, Chiang Mai is home to some of the most significant sanctuaries and spiritual sites in the entire country!

The outdoor adventures never end (naturally), from jungle zipling to whitewater rafting! Run among sunflower fields, visit a tea or coffee plantation and get a taste of Northern cuisine — if there’s one dish to try, it has to be khao soi !

Located nine hours from Bangkok, there are direct flights from the capital city to Chiang Mai, or you can travel by road instead, road-tripping to some of Thailand’s other incredible towns like Kanchanaburi.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• day trips from Chiang Mai

1 – Explore Thailand’s highest mountain in Doi Inthanon National Park

“The Roof of Thailand” towers over the Chiang Mai region 2,565 meters above sea level, covering landscapes brimming with waterfalls, natural rainforest, temples, treetops of woodpeckers and other wildlife, walking trails, local villages and flower fields!

You don’t need to be a super trekker to experience her beauty — in fact, one of the reasons why Doi Inthanon National Park is a swarm of activity is that visitors have the option to drive nearly all the way to the top of the summit — alternatively, you can hike it instead.

Travel tip: Arrive extra early in the morning in time for sunrise. Head straight up to Kew Mae Pan for the best views in the house, as well as to witness an ocean of low-hanging clouds roll in.

Photograph the Twin Pagodas (Phramahathat Napamathanidol and Phramahathat Napaphol Bhumisiri) and visit hilltop tribes.

Hunt down one of Thailand’s tallest cascades, the 260-meter-high Mae Ya Waterfall, or Wachirathan Waterfall is another dramatic option!

Grab a bite to eat (and wander through glasshouses, rose gardens and past ponds of swans) at The Royal Agricultural Station or the trendy 22 Aquarius Glamping Cafe’.

Top hiking trails include the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail and the Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail.

Travel time: 1.5 hours

• Doi Inthanon National Park day trips

2 – Escape to winter-y Mon Cham (Mon Jam)

Mountaintop cafes, insane sunrise spots, strawberry fields and adventures for thrill-seekers, welcome to Mon Cham (also referred to as ‘Mon Jam’).

The weather is instantly cooler, the natural beauty mesmerizing and the tourists haven’t overtaken this hilltop destination — for now!

From a former uninhibited forest to an opium farm to the Nong Hoi Royal Project, today, this hilly ridge is home to the Mong Nong Hoi village.

Its focus is on agriculture and across the area, flourish beds of artichokes, strawberries, plums, tomatoes, grapes, chamomile, lemon thyme and rosemary.

It’s another spot where arriving before sunrise is every bit worth it; see the day break over the horizon, bursting through cottonball clouds above your head.

A lovely way to sweep in the area is along the Skywalk Mon Jam, or get your adrenaline on and go zip lining on the exciting Pongyang Jungle Coaster and Zipline. Or take a break and unwind at the Japanese-inspired Onsen @ Moncham .

P.S. Mon Cham is a district right by Mae Rim, so you may want to consider visiting both destinations in one day. 

Travel time: 53 minutes

3 – Spend your day with majestic creatures at the ethical Elephant Sanctuaries

Elephant sanctuaries are mega popular in Thailand, but this doesn’t always equate to them being the most ethical. Say no to elephant rides, chains and bullhooks, and while some sanctuaries advertise themselves as “ethical,” this isn’t always the case.

Rest assured knowing that the following adhere to animal welfare guidelines, and spend the day watching elephants bathe and roam freely in their natural habits.

Set up on a massive property, Elephant Nature Park has been operating since the 90s (and was founded by an elephant rights advocate), with a SkyWalk through the park.

Watch elephants trek through the forest to the river at exceptional BEES – Burm Emily’s Elephant Sanctuary , where the wellbeing of the ellies comes before anything else.

Feed the elephants bananas, watch them bathe and learn more about the majestic mammals at peaceful Happy Elephant Home .

You really feel the love and care of the staff for their animals at the Lanna Kingdom Elephant Sanctuary , and you get the chance to prepare a meal for the elephants yourself (tamarind and bananas).

Travel time: Elephant Nature Park – 53 minutes | BEES – 2h 44mins | Happy Elephant Home – 1h 8mins | Lanna Kingdom Elephant Sanctuary – 1h 6mins

• Elephant Sanctuaries tours

4 – Learn the art of meditation at this important temple inside Doi Suthep-Pui National Park

Things can get a little confusing in Thailand, and so many destinations and attractions have multiple names (and spellings for that matter), so let’s first break down the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park’s geography.

In the north, “doi” means mountain, and Suthep is the area surrounding the National Park.

Spread across the Mae Rim, Hang Dong and Mueang districts, there are two mountains forming the park: Doi Suthep and Doi Pui.

Cycle around the park and get better acquainted with its special flora and fauna, hike up the mountains for incredible views, and discover waterfalls for a cooling dip, but the star of the show is undoubtedly glistening Wat Phra That Doi Suthep!

The Buddhist temple is located on Doi Suthep mountain and is not only the park’s main attraction, but also Chiang Mai’s most sacred sanctuary!

A seven-headed naga staircase leads the way to the golden playground, Chatra umbrellas make you think of funfair carousels, giant seated Buddhas greet visitors, and as the story goes, the relics of Buddha are housed inside the chedi — brought to the temple grounds by a white elephant.

Plus, learn and practice the art of meditation at its on-site meditation center.

Travel time: 39 minutes

• Doi Suthep day trips

5 – See the famous White and Blue Temples in Chiang Rai

When deciding where to make your base in Northern Thailand, many travelers toss-up between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. No one can blame you though, as each city has its own allure.

Don’t miss out on either location during the best day trips from Chiang Mai, visiting the capital of temple land where a heaven of them awaits you in Chiang Rai, including some of the most famous in all of Thailand!

Splashed across Instagram feeds, feel like you’ve escaped reality and entered an ornate Gaudi-inspired masterpiece at the iconic White Temple, i.e., Wat Rong Khun!

Swap color palettes and stand in awe at the Blue Temple: Wat Rong Suea Ten!

Wat Phra Singh is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Rai, honoring the Lion Buddha, and it is believed that the Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong temple was founded even before Chiang Rai existed!

Other temples worth checking out include Wat Huay Pla Kang, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Mung Muang, Wat Jed Yod, Wat Doi Ngam Muang and the Buddha Cave Temple (officially Wat Tham Phra).

Travel time: 3h 10mins

• Chiang Rai Temples day trips

6 – Feel like a superhero climbing this sticky waterfall, Bua Tong

Like a setting from a Disney movie (think Tarzan or Bambi ), how many times can you say you’ve ever climbed a sticky waterfall, let alone one where you can ascend UP the cascade?!

Well, seeing is believing at Bua Tong, endearingly nicknamed the “Sticky Waterfalls.”

So what’s the deal with this unique chute, and why is it sticky? First of all, the water isn’t sticky like gum, but rather, it’s the tufa rocks (limestone porous formations created by carbonate minerals in the water) that are!

The spring’s source is rich in minerals here, hence its genesis.

Water does flow down the waterfall, but the rockeries all have great grip and are easy to climb. Plus, there are fixed ropes leading up all four tiers of the fall, which makes walking up extra easy, even for younger ages.

Not keen on getting wet? You can still experience Bua Tong up close, and there is a set of steps from the top to bottom — but you’ll have to walk back up the stairs afterward!

P.S. It’s located inside the Sri Lanna National Park.  

7 – Hippy Pai will steal your hearts!

Come get lost in happy hippy land, we mean, Pai, with its bohemian heart and free-love vibes, where many stores (and travelers) appear like they’re still stuck in the 70s — and we love it!

Capturing gypsy hearts and eccentric souls, there’s no place else like Pai, and once you arrive here on a day trip, you’ll be wishing for more time!

The whole of the central town is basically a walking street, main roads spilling over with restaurants, funky bars, hippy shops, music, Thai-boho stores and smiling faces, and there’s so much brightness and color everywhere you can’t help but join in!

There’s a distinct “spiritual” feeling in the air (the kind that’s drawn people to Thailand for decades), and all walks of life travel to this magical town.

Situated on the Pai River and surrounded by rice terraces and verdant rolling hills, go whitewater rafting or tubing (very popular in Pai).

Cool off beneath cascades at Mo Paeng Waterfall, Hua Chang Waterfall, Mae Yen Waterfall (our favorite) and Pam Bok Waterfall.

Naturally, yoga is a top activity here — many travelers arrive straight from India to Pai!

Travel tip: Stay for the famous night market if you can. From the food to the shopping, it’s one of our all-time best night markets in Thailand! Check out these awesome multi-day trips to Pai . 

8 – Wild sunflowers, cosmos and cherry blossoms, go play in the Flower Fields

Feel like you’re in an Enid Blyton novel or are Anne of Green Gables frolicking among rainbows of flower fields scattered across the landscapes of Northern Thailand.

Rao Dok Lom Nhao (ไร่ดอกลมหนาว) in Mon Cham forms part of a mountainside community garden. Bright purple, orange, red and yellow fleurs line rows between rice terraces!

Twisty and turning with streaks of verdant orange-yellow, the Thung Bua Flower Field naturally littering the Mae Hong Son Loop is breathtaking! These Mexican sunflowers typically bloom between October and December.

One of the most popular spots is I Love Flower Farm in Mae Rim. Picture massive fields with photo props added in between the lanes, and the varieties that bloom change with the season!

Across a coffee plantation inside Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, transport yourself to Japan and go sakura spotting at Khun Chang Khian. Apart from the flurry of cherry blossoms, peach and plum trees grow here too.

Travel time: Rao Dok Lom Nhao – 1 hour | Thung Bua Flower Field – 4 hours | I Love Flower Farm – 25 minutes | Khun Chang Khian – 58 minutes

9 – 1,300 meters above sea level, discover Mae Kampong

Hopeless romantics and dreamers, escape reality in this secret oasis, where it’s you, the river and the sounds of the jungle.

Probably the closest feeling to being in Thailand about 50 years ago before its travel boom, Mae Kampong is enchanting!

Restaurants, shops and homestays are built between the undulating sleepy village roads, and jungle-esque cafes line the riverbanks. The setting at Teddu Coffee is insane, and so is the Teen Tok Royal Project Development Center!

On that coffee bean note, there’s a strong coffee and tea culture here, and if you’re a coffee snob, you’re in for a treat (pop into Utsah.homebrew, Pirunya Coffee and Lung Pud Pa Peng Coffee).

Get your blood pumping and heart racing zip lining at Chiang Mai’s Flight of the Gibbon , set up inside a lush tropical forest in Mae Kampong!

Mother Nature’s finest doesn’t stop there: hunt down Mae Kampong Waterfall!

Travel time: 1h 11mins

10 – Adventurous souls, explore darkened Chiang Dao Cave with ancient Buddhas inside!

Grab a carousel lamp and meander through cavern systems of dripping stalactites, naturally-hammered ceilings and Buddha shrines, which all give the Chiang Dao Cave a mystical spiritual feel!

The entrance is reached by crossing a walkway over a teal blue pond, the waters so transparent you can easily spot its fish inhabitants swimming by.

An ornate white swooping temple roof directs you to the start, ascending a set of stairs into the darkness. Four caves await your explorations!

The illuminated Tham Phranon is the main cave and where the bulk of ancient statues and temple remnants are found, including the upward-facing reclining Buddha (built in 2456 BCE by a hermit named Ukhantha).

The other three (known as Tham Maa, Tham Kaew, and Tham Naam) are not lit up — this is when a light source comes in handy! You’ll have to crawl and squeeze your way through some parts, but that’s all part of the adventure!

Travel time: 1h 35mins

• Chiang Dao Cave day trips

11 – Fairy springs and temples to blow your mind away, visit Lampang

From jungle markets to museums to magnificent temples, Lampang is a cultural overload!

Not to mention the most popular mode of local transport in town is by carriage! Yup, this destination has hidden gems everywhere … just wait until you set eyes on the secret and mysterious fairy-like Lampang Emerald Pool (Lom Phu Kiew)!

Its most striking accolade, though, is its Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn: a set of pure white chedi temples scattered and perched on the tippy tops of a group of cliffs — the entire setting reminds you of Nepal!

Another mesmerizing mountaintop temple site is Wat Phra That Doi Phra Chan, where you can stand above the clouds next to the head of a golden naga dragon! At Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, see examples of early-Lanna-style architecture and compare the differences.

Next on the cultural agenda: the museums! Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum , Komol Phaboraan Textile Museum and the Louis T. Leonowens Mansion (นักงานหลุยส์) are all intriguing options.

Travel time: 1h 46mins

• Lampang day trips

Hot tip: Join a temple-hopping day tour to Lampang and Lamphun! 

12 – Like nowhere else, explore magical Mae Hong Son

A renowned tea-growing hotspot, follow the smells of fragrant jasmine in Mae Hong Son, where you’ll be left wondering if you’re still in Thailand or perhaps China’s Yunnan!

The winding flower-lined Mae Hong Son Loop road is the perfect introduction to ‘The City of Three Mists’ — no matter the time of year, the area is swallowed in blankets of mist!

Terra cotta houses with low-swooping roofs and hanging red lanterns line tea terraces at Ban Rak Thai village (oolong is the popular blend grown here), and unique cafes and restaurants line the lake in front.

Get a cultural fix at Mae Hong Son’s largest ethnic village: Huay Pu Keng – Kayan Village, and at the hilltop Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu temple, overseeing both Mae Hong Son and Burma! Also, don’t miss the twin Burmese-style Wat Chong Kham and Wat Chong Klang pagodas (both extra pretty when lit up at night).

On nature’s end, explore a world of waterfalls, unusual caves and exciting trails.

• Mae Sakut Nature Trail leads to the 100-meter-tall Mae Surin Falls
• Swim at Pha Suea Waterfall
• Hang out in the Alpine landscape around Pang Oung lake
• Enter the ultra-unique Fish Cave (ถ้ำปลา Tham Pla)
• Mosey through rice fields on the Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge

Travel time: 5 hours

Travel tip: Detour to Doi Inthanon on the way to Mae Hong Son, and Pai is also along this route. 

13 – Make a splash at the only outdoor waterpark in Chiang Mai at Hang Dong Canyon

You don’t have to travel all the way to (or from) the good ol’ USA to see the “Grand Canyon,” all you have to do is just visit Hang Dong Canyon.

Okay, technically, it’s nothing like the famous red rocky-terrained Grand Canyon (the soil here is reddish brown, we’ll give it that), but that’s its nickname in Chiang Mai, and residents and local travel agencies often refer to it as such.

Located in Hang Dong, this canyon was a quarry, and although it’s never been a proper natural wonder, it does have a fun purpose for tourists!

It was converted into a floating waterpark, equipped with inflatable rides, giant slides, a water trampoline and Children’s Water Park (Kids Zone).

Catch major air whilst wakeboarding, kayak for something more relaxing, and try out the Water Kangaroo (Aqua skipper). There’s even a zipline over 400 meters long!

On-site facilities include lockers, showers, sunbathing areas, a restaurant and a cafe.

Travel time: 23 minutes

14 – Dive into prehistoric art and culture in Lamphun

Veer off the beaten track in wonderful Lamphun, and spend the day exploring natural beauty, cultural institutes and even a few weird and wonderful attractions!

Fun fact: Lamphun is renowned as the land of longan fruit in Thailand, and a signature dish originating from Lamphun is its famous longan noodles ! It’s a braised pork noodle soup with stewed longans in the broth for added sweetness (find it at a few restaurants).

For cabinets of nostalgia, pop into Mickey’s House, where about 5,000 Mickey Mouse collector’s items are on full display, including many rare (and prized) items!

Brush up on your history, art and religion at Hariphunchai National Museum (chronicling the prehistoric, Hariphunchai, Lanna and Lanna Restoration periods).

Learn more about local Karen craftsmanship at the Baan Phra Bat Huai Tom Handicraft and Cultural Centre!

Two must-see natural beauties in Lamphun are Luang Pha Wiang Cave and the Koh Luang Waterfall (its water changes color with the seasons)!

Any temples? You bet! Investigate golden Wat Phra That Hariphunchai and Buddhist Wat Mahawan Woramahawihan.

Travel time: 1h 49mins

• Lamphun day trips

15 – Trek the country’s third-tallest peak at Chiang Dao

Filled with spectacular natural attractions, thought-provoking spiritual landmarks and plenty of hikes to satiate your itching feet, you’re left feeling totally refreshed after a day exploring the Chiang Dao district.

Climb 510 jungle steps to the mountain cave temple, Wat Tham Pha Plong, also known as the “Walking Temple.”

Investigate different depictions of Buddhist hell around the garden at Wat Mae Ead.

Veer further into the wild, putting on your hiking shoes (and gear) for Thailand’s third-highest mountain, Doi Luang Chiang Dao (incredible for bird-watching). Swap locations and trek through Pha Daeng National Park to Sri Sangwan Waterfall.

Looking for unusual things to do in Chiang Dao? Revitalize your worn-out feet after a day of trekking at Chiang Dao Hot Springs or Pong Arng Hot Spring. Then, cool off with a fresh craft at Microkosmos for beers and burgers.

Travel time: 1h 14mins

• Chiang Dao day trips

16 – Fish, kayak and cycle around Huay Tung Tao Lake

Water babies, take a break from all the cultural endeavors and mountainous sightseeing, and travel half an hour out of the city to Huay Tung Tao Lake.

Circled by bamboo thatch structures and huts selling delicious local bites (like steamed fish), it’s the perfect place for a day around the lake — and you best believe there are a plethora of outdoor activities to go with it!

Peddle swan boats on the water, rent kayaks for a paddle, splash about freely, or these cool wooden water rafts are available for any avid fishermen to float about on, casting your reel from here. It’s also favored for bike tours and zip lining.

Fascinatingly, the reservoir is manmade and is built on a former military base, adding fascinating history to the locale.

Pose for a fun picture with enormous elephants, reindeer, rhinos, peacocks and gorillas — but in bamboo form — and these natural sculptures are very impressive!

17 – Watch the sunrise above Chiang Mai at Doi Ang Khang

If you’re up for an adventure (duh, that’s what Northern Thailand is all about), awake while the last stars are still twinkling and leave in the early hours of a new day in time to catch the insane spectacle that is Doi Ang Khang!

The sunrise snapshots from atop Mon Son Viewpoint are unrivaled — and so is the star-gazing at night (heart eyes emoji).

Immersed high up in the mountains, it’s chilly temperatures all-year-round — locals have dubbed this place as “Little Switzerland.”

Cue the rows of cherry blossoms in winter, rice paddy terraces, cute farms and even strawberry-picking experiences (pop into Ban No Lae Strawberry Farm).

Another major highlight here is the Royal Agricultural Station Angkhang with its various gardens (including a Bonsai one), a restaurant and a deli shop selling jams, fruit, nuts, etc.

Take a stroll around 2,000 acres of tea leaves at Tea Plantation 2000, become acquainted with local customs and traditions at the villages and hill tribes of the area, and with a mountain base, explore the area via the hiking trails.

Travel time: 3h 7mins

18 – Choose between multiple hikes inside Huai Nam Dang National Park

Adding another hiking hotspot to your list, Huai Nam Dang National Park boasts trails suitable for all types of trekkers.

At an elevation of 1,962 meters, Doi Chang is the park’s highest peak. You’ll find some super easy and others that should only be undertaken by experienced hikers and those with top fitness levels.

• Hua Chang Waterfalls Trail is an 8.7-kilometer round loop
• Muang Pai Stone Forest Viewpoint Trail is 1.9 kilometers
• Ban Na Chalong River Trail is 6.8 kilometers
• The Auang Ngoen Path is 1.4 kilometers
• The 1.5-kilometer Pong Duad Path and the hour-long Pong Nam Ron Trail both lead to hot springs!

The park is home to many hill tribes, which you can visit during your hiking adventures, and some of the trails even lead to the local villages.

Other exciting outdoor activities are bamboo rafting on the Taeng River, whitewater rafting and ziplining in the Mae Taeng area, and exploring the 2,000-year-old Tham Nam Lod Cave!

The National Park spans the Pai, Mae Taeng and Wiang Haeng Districts. Once you’ve completed your hike, why not discover your outlying surroundings? Doi Kiew Lom View Point is one of the most breathtaking locations for witnessing the sea of mist rambling in!

As you’ve gathered, Chiang Mai is an incredible destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. Check out other awesome daytime hiking tours , and decide which one grabs your attention most!

Travel time: 2h 16mins

19 – Unlike anywhere else in Thailand, cruise to a new country at The Golden Triangle

Did you know that there’s a part of Thailand that meets the borders of two other countries – it’s like journeying around Asia without ever leaving Chiang Mai!

Introducing the Golden Triangle, known as the bordered gateway to Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, and its Thai counterpart is located near Chiang Rai!

Straddling the Mekong River, the heart of the Golden Triangle is Sop Ruak (where the Mekong and Ruak Rivers converge), and boat border crossings kick off from here. Or keep your passport in one country and embark on a cruise along the river from Sop Ruak to Chiang Saen and Chiang Khong.

There are shorter river excursions, around 20 minutes, that stay floating in Sop Ruak, and this is a unique way to appreciate the Golden Triangle.

Explore historic Lanna ruins at the Wat Phra That Doi Pu Khao temple, or for something completely off the nose, step back into the past to darker days when the area was an opium-trading hub (true story) at the Hall of Opium Museum or the privately-owned  House of Opium.

Travel time: 4h 20mins

• Golden Triangle day trips

20 – Chase waterfalls inside Sri Lanna National Park

J.R.R. Tolkien fans; easily imagine hobbits and elves playing around the Mon Hin Lai Waterfall or the legendary Bua Tong — straight out of a fantasy world!

Just one hour from Chiang Mai, this natural extravaganza awaits you, along with a slew of other waterfalls (Huai Mae Rangong and Huai Pa Phlu Waterfall) and mysterious cavern systems inside Thailand’s eighth-largest National Park.

Sri Lanna is all about being out in nature, and the area is home to a haven of wildlife, like macaques, wild boars, sambar deers and Asian black bears!

Trek through flourishing terrains and canopies of evergreens to the Nong Pha Cave (full of hanging stalactites and crazily-shaped stalagmites).

Impressive hiking trails include the three-hour Mon Hin Lai – Doi Chom Hot Peak trail, the 1.5-hour Tat Pow waterfall trail, the Bua Tong – Phu Jed Si trail and the Ban Pa Den Loop is just under five hours from start to finish.

Around the Mae Ngat Sombun Chon Dam, rafting, kayaking and SUPing are available.

Travel time: 1h20mins

21 – Get adventurous in Mae Rim

Mae Rim is nature’s paradise! Ranging from natural to manmade, family-friendly to extra romantic, there’s heaps to do around the region!

( FYI: Mae Rim comprises 11 subdistricts: Rim Tai, Rim Nuea, San Pong, Khilek, Saluang, Huai Sai, Mae Rim, Pong Yaeng, Mae Sa, Don Kaeo and Mueang Kaeo.)

Play and swim in 10-tiered Mae Sa Waterfall (in the Mae Sa Valley). Photograph the Buddha handprint safeguarded inside Pa Ta Cave.

Get educated on one of our most vital insects at Supha Bee Farm; join a class on fieldwork at Nong Hoi Royal Project learning center; meander through a rose garden at Ban Buak Tey and among orchids at Arrom Orchid’s nursery.

For more floral infusions, do the Canopy Walk at the gorgeous Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens!

Enjoy life on the wild side at Phoenix Adventure Park , or test your aim at the Maerim Shooting Range!

Some quirky culture-filled exploits include the unique Elephant POOPOOPAPER Park , where you can buy goods made from recycled materials and dung, or join a DIY craft workshop!

Final thoughts

Without question, Chiang Mai is one of the most special places in Thailand! The province is like anywhere else in the country, and so is the treasure trove of things to do in Chiang Mai !

Once you’re here, you’ll be wanderlusting for more time to explore all it has to offer, and if you are lucky enough to have more than just a day or two here, we highly recommend opting for multi-day trips from Chiang Mai .

For some places, like Pai or further up in Nan for example, really, a day isn’t enough and many towns and villages have incredible nighttime activities, not to mention night markets!

If SEA has stolen your heart, check out some of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia to add to your itinerary next, from Hanoi to El Nido!

Have you ever visited Chiang Mai before? What were some of your best day trips from Chiang Mai, or even favorite attractions in the main city? Share with us in the comments; we love hearing your thoughts and all about your favorite adventures!

As always, happy travels in the Land of Smiles!

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Chiang Mai: The Best Day Trips You Should Go On

Chiang Mai is the king of day trips. This northern city that is found along the banks of the Ping River and surrounded by lush forestry is chock full of incredible places that are but a short drive away. With that being said, here are the best day trips you should take from Chiang Mai.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon is the tallest mountain in Thailand. It sits at the southern tip of a continuous chain of mountain ranges that actually originates in the Himalaya, and the national park it is found in covers some 482 square kilometers of land. Trees found in Nepal can also be found here, and it is one of the most stunning of natural finds in the Kingdom. The area is mostly chilly and foggy all year long, giving visitors a much-needed break from Thailand’s oftentimes unbearable heat.

The Roof of Thailand 

One of the main reasons why visitors frequent Doi Inthanon National Park is to see the two large chedis (stupas) found on the mountain. These two structures were created to commemorate the king and queen of Thailand’s 60th birthday anniversaries. One chedi is dedicated to the king and the other to the queen. They were gifted these incredible structures by the Royal Thai Air Force. The late king’s stupa was built in 1987 and stands at some 60 meters tall. The queen’s stupa was later constructed in 1992 and stands at about 55 meters tall. The king’s was constructed look more masculine and the queen’s to be more feminine. Both are amazing displays of architecture.

Doi Inthanon National Park is also home to seven waterfalls, trails, and many more natural finds. These are all best explored with the help of a guide. The national park is found in the Ban Khun Klang village of Hmong. You will find that there are a few markets worth exploring nearby. These vendors sell fresh honey, a plethora of different dried fruit, nuts, and much more. Grab an entire bag of these for cheap and snack while you explore this beautiful park.

Angkha Nature Trail

There are a plethora of interesting finds throughout the park, like the Angkha Nature Trail. It is otherwise known as the cloud forest because it is some 2,500 meters above sea level. This area of the park is also home to some of the largest species of moss in the world. Enjoy walking the wooden trail underneath the shade of the large trees here while taking in the incredible views. The trail is about 340 meters in length and takes about 25 minutes to walk in its entirety.

Huay Tung Tao Lake

If you are looking to truly get off the beaten path, Huay Tung Tao Lake is the excursion to frequent. This huge, sprawling body of water is the perfect spot to sit, relax, and cool off for the entirety of a day. The large lake is surrounded by homely bamboo huts equipped with colorful mats that double as seating arrangements. It is here you can grab a beer and take in the mountains of Doi Pui. For those visitors who want to do more than just relax, the lake is also surrounded by a four-kilometer trail that is perfect for cycling or running. You will find both locals and tourists alike taking to the trail on their bicycles or on foot to get in some exercise before cooling off in Huay Tung Tao Lake.

Huay Tung Tao is one of the easiest places to get to out of all the excursions on our list. It is about a 20-minute drive from the city center. You can grab an Uber or hire a driver for the day to get here. There is a ฿20 (about $0.60) fee to see the lake. All of the bungalows are free to relax in as long as you order from the restaurant’s menu. There are several surrounding the lake, and you will find traditional Thai meals for cheap as well as beers, wine coolers, and spirits for purchase.

Found some 1,676 meters at its summit, the mountain of Doi Suthep is certainly a stunning natural spectacle in Chiang Mai. It’s most noteworthy aspect, however, is the temple found here: Wat Doi Suthep. This golden, Buddhist temple contains a sacred Buddha relic and is one of the most visited wats  (temples) in the country.

Visitors must first climb some 300 steps to reach it but are greeted with stunning architecture and even better views of the sprawling city below once they do. In addition to the temple, the site is home to a rose and orchid garden, as well. One could spend an entire morning exploring this temple in its entirety.

If you want to make an entire day out of visiting this incredible temple, be sure to check out the small but noteworthy stops along the 16-kilometer route to the temple, like the Monthathon Falls, for example. The Phuphing Royal Palace is about five kilometers down the road from the temple as well as souvenir and food carts at the beginning of Doi Suthep that are worth checking out.

Prepare to be floored (and confused) by the Bua Tong Waterfall. Otherwise known as the Sticky Waterfalls, these cascading tiers are just that: sticky. The area in which the falls cover is quite small but memorable all the same. It is made up of multiple tiers that are made of limestone rock. The limestone creates friction on the falls, allowing visitors to climb up the falls with ease and without slipping. It is a strange yet incredible experience climbing up the falls, and there are a few ropes attached to trees for those visitors who are still skeptical.

Sticky Waterfalls

There are a total of five different levels to explore and a pool at the bottom of the last tier that you can swim in. We suggest combining these falls and visiting the Chiang Dao Cave on the same day, as the waterfalls themselves are quite small and a morning here gives you certainly enough time to explore it in its entirety.

Chiang Dao Cave

The Chiang Dao Cave remains off the tourist track, which is good for those of you who actually make the trek to Chiang Dao. Otherwise known as Tham Chiang Dao, this dark and shadowy wonder covers some 12 kilometers of underground cave inside Doi Chiang Dao Mountain. It is Thailand’s third largest mountain, and visitors are not allowed to explore on their own because of this, as the chances of getting lost in such a large natural wonder are high. There are a number of local guides at the ready to lead you into the dark and further into this natural wonder, however. The cost of hiring a guide to explore the cave further is ฿150 (about $4.70).

Meander further into the cave and find a number of interesting finds, including thousands of bats in slumber. There are also a number of cave formations that look like elephants and other animals. At the end of your tour, be sure to visit the medicine market in the parking lot towards to the entrance of the cave. There is also an affordable restaurant, some souvenir shops as well as a cafe equipped with coffee, Thai tea, and more. There is a ฿40 (about $1.25) entrance fee into the cave. You must also wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees as the cave is considered to be a temple, though there is clothing you can pay to rent out at the entrance, as well.

Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park is one of Chiang Mai’s most coveted attractions. It was established in the 1990s and has been providing rescued elephants with the care and home they need ever since. The park is about 60 kilometers from the city center. We recommend Elephant Nature Park because after elephants were banned from carrying teak in Thailand, many of them were put to work in shows or to carry tourists. Riding elephants is not ethical, and we highly recommend you do not go to any elephant “sanctuaries” that allow you to do so.

Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle

Chiang Rai is one of the oldest cities in Thailand. It was established by King Mengrai in 1262. Though the king later moved the capital further south to Chiang Mai, this city remains a coveted one and should be visited by those who have time to do so. One thing every visitor to the city must lay their eyes upon is the Golden Triangle, and there are plenty of companies scattered throughout Chiang Mai that offers day trips that do just that.

Found on Thailand’s border, the Golden Triangle is where visitors can stand and see both Laos and Myanmar from either side of the Mekong River. This area has long been the inspiration for books and movies, as it was once a lucrative area for opium and heroin warlords. Though the problem has since been (for the most part) ironed out, it remains an interesting spot to see.

The Golden Triangle actually covers a huge chunk of land and is found in Sop Ruak, a small village where many locals reside. In addition to seeing where the three countries meet, you can also visit the nearby temple of Wat Phra That Doi Tung as well as shop at the nearby Thai vendors. These shops sell everything fake jade to sweet, Thai desserts, so be sure to check these out, as well.

Mae Sa Valley 

Those visitors looking to explore Chiang Mai’s more natural side should head to the Mae Sa Valley. It is home to a number of noteworthy excursions. The best way to visit each and every one of these is to hire a driver for the day and stop and go as you please! The Botanic Gardens are about a 30-minute drive from the city center.

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden

One of our favorite attractions of them all is the Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens. This educational excursion is both filled with information and beauty, as it highlights some of northern Thailand’s most beautiful foliage. The gardens themselves were charmingly designed, with originative enclosures and attractions sprinkled throughout the expansive gardens. As you make your way through the gardens, you will come across a banana plantation, an informative museum on the foliage found throughout Thailand, and much more.

Mae Sa Waterfall

Just down the road from the Botanical Gardens is the Mae Sa Waterfall. After driving around the gardens, this is the perfect spot to stop off and have lunch by the river. You can find plenty of food vendors selling everything from fried chicken to som tum , a popular, spicy Thai salad. Get your food, throw it into one of the baskets vendors have on hand along with a few mats, and you are ready for your riverside feast!

The Mae Sa Waterfall is made up of eight tiers. Get away from the crowds by climbing up to the very top tier, which is arguably the most beautiful of them all, as well. Some of the pools at the end of each fall are not safe enough to swim in, but the last tier is equipped with a large pool and plenty of rocks that are perfect for sitting, sunbathing, and relaxing on.

Visit the (other) Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon , otherwise known as Hang Dong Canyon, is about 48,000 square meters in size. It is a great spot worth visiting on Thailand’s hottest of afternoons. Visitors simply flock to this destination when they need to cool off, as the Grand Canyon is essentially a large lake with plenty of attractions scattered throughout, including a spot for cliff jumping, zip lining, sunbathing, and more.  If you get hungry while you are there, grab lunch at the Grand Canyon Gamnanboon restaurant.  The Grand Canyon is in the Hang Dong District of Chiang Mai. It takes about 40 minutes to get there from the city center.

Location: Grand Canyon in Chiang Mai  —   VIEW MAP Contact: +66 052 001 076 Hours: Daily from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.

More information about day trips from Chiang Mai

Did you love this article about which day trips to take from Chiang Mai? Do you want to explore the surrounding area even more? Then be sure to check out these amazing articles about things to see and do in and around Chiang Mai. We only recommend blogs and articles we love ourselves, as well.

• 12 Amazing Things to Do in Chiang Mai by Chris and Angela for Tieland to Thailand
• Things to do in Chiang Mai for Travelfish
• Top things to do in Chiang Mai for Lonely Planet
• The Best Day Trips Out Of Chiang Mai To Organize By Yourself by Carolin for Breathing Travel
• The Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai by Iona Proebst for Culture Trip

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Mad Monkey is Southeast Asia’s leading hostel operator — born in Cambodia with more properties in Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, Laos, and the Philippines. We pride ourselves in creating meaningful and sustainable travel experiences for our guests, whilst promoting socially responsible tourism.

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8 Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai

June 16, 2023

Get ready to unlock the hidden gems surrounding Chiang Mai , Northern Thailand’s crown jewel! Sure, the city has its laid-back charm, but did you know it’s also a launching pad for epic day t rips?

Picture this: Chiang Mai, nestled by the enchanting Ping River, with dense forests as its backdrop. Now, venture beyond its borders to discover jaw-dropping waterfalls, mysterious caves, and captivating Indigenous villages.

How to get there? Take your pick: Grab, Song Taew (a funky passenger truck) , guided tours, or even renting a car like I did for Doi Inthanon and Mae Kampong Village.

Confession time: I vividly recall my own escapades, as I decided to rent a car during my stay, eager to uncover the treasures of Doi Inthanon and the captivating Mae Kampong Village. Admittedly, I was initially apprehensive about acclimating to the “wrong” side of the road. Yet, like an intrepid adventurer (ha!), I quickly adapted, and navigating our way to these hidden gems proved to be a seamless and exhilarating experience.

Join me as we delve into the enchanting secrets that lie in wait beyond Chiang Mai’s tranquil embrace. Get ready to be captivated by the wonders that await you, where each day trip promises an unforgettable rendezvous with nature’s breathtaking beauty.

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let’s go!

1. Mae Kampong Village

3. chiang dao caves, 4. doi pui hmong village, 5. grand pagodas of doi inthanon, 6. mae ngat dam, 7. chiang rai, 8. mae sa waterfall, keep exploring northern thailand.

Mae Kampong is a village that dates back more than a century. Well-known for its natural beauty and interesting architecture, the community is situated up a windy (and steep!) mountain road.

There are coffee and tea plantations, numerous waterfalls, and forests on both sides of the nearby creek. Because of the pleasant year-round climate in Mae Kampong, local Thai people adore heading to the village for a visit.

It can be challenging to find parking, but once you do, it’s time to explore! Since there are no sidewalks, you must walk on the road. Be aware of oncoming traffic, and stay alert.

After winding through a few shops, it is time to snack at one of the eateries that dangle over the creek. It was quite warm the day I visited, and I was thrilled to find a vendor selling frozen Cokes. The machine spun a glass bottle of Coke in a vat of ice and salt — freezing the beverage into a delicious slush right in the bottle!

Once you’ve had your fill of the village, you can find the Mae Kampong Waterfall a further five minutes drive down the road. There is no fee to park, although the lot is relatively small. You can take a quick dip of your feet in the water to relieve some of the heat or take the long climb up the staircase to the top of the falls.

• Distance : 31.6 miles (50.9 km)
• How to get there : Book a tour or rent a car
• Time to get there : About an hour

One of the region’s last and most northern Mon kingdoms, Haripunchai, had its historic capital at Lamphun. The city is the oldest in the nation because it predates the establishment of Siam’s first kingdom.

Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, which is situated in the heart of Lamphun city, is one of the most well-known and well-liked temples in Northern Thailand, and it is a must-see. A Hariphunchai King constructed the temple in the early 12th century to house a Buddha relic that was discovered nearby.

Lamphun is home to several other temples worth visiting, including the vibrant Wat Mahawan Woramahawihan and Wat Chammathewi, whose historic chedi rises 21 meters high.

• Distance : 24.4 miles (39.4 km)
• How to get there : Book a day tour, take a Song Taew or Grab, rent a car
• Time to get there : About 35 minutes

For those who prefer to avoid crowds, the Chiang Dao Cave continues to be off the beaten tourist path. This dark wonder, also known as Tham Chiang Dao, spans a 12-kilometer underground cavern inside Doi Chiang Dao Mountain — the third-largest mountain in Thailand. The cave is off-limits to solo exploration because of the likelihood of getting lost in such a vast natural beauty, but many local tour operators are available.

As you explore the cave, keep looking for sleeping bats — you will likely find thousands of them slumbering the day away. Plus, numerous cave formations abound some resemble animals, including elephants.

Be sure to stop at the medicine market in the parking area near the cave entrance when your tour is finished. There is also an affordable restaurant, a few gift shops, and a cafe with coffee, Thai tea, and other amenities. The cave entrance fee is just a few American dollars. Note: The cave is considered a temple; you must wear clothes covering your shoulders and knees.

• Distance : 46.4 miles (74.8 km)
• How to get there : Book a tour, take a Song Taew, or rent a car
• Time to get there : An hour and 15 minutes

The village is situated at the top of Doi Suthep. It is home to the Hmong hill tribe people — one of six major Thailand hill tribes. The village consists of a museum, a beautiful garden, houses, and souvenir shops.

The village is spread over the side of the hill, and the garden settings are lovely. The shops sell handmade goods such as clothing, bags, purses, hats, and gifts. There are colorful designs at a good value.

Some reviewers call it a “tourist trap” due to all the market stalls, but that’s a bit unfair. The daily market is a significant part of the villagers’ income. So, by buying here, you’re contributing directly to the community.

• Distance : 15 miles (24.3 km)
• Time to get there : 45 minutes

The twin Pagodas — Pra Mahatat Noppamethanedon and Pra Mahatat Nopphonphusiri — honor the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. The temple grounds consist of beautiful gardens and a panoramic view of the area around Doi Inthanon.

When you drive up to the Grand Pagodas, you’ll be greeted by a checkpoint where you need to pay an additional entrance fee. You’ll be advised to park your vehicle and then either take a Song Taew or hike the 1-minute walk up the hill, where you can catch the escalators to the two pagodas.

Many people enjoy visiting the Grand Pagodas in time to see the sunrise. You’ll need to leave Chiang Mai about two hours before dawn if you want to catch this sight.

• Distance : 55 miles (87 km)
• Time to get there : About an hour and a half

Mae Ngat Dam is roughly an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai. However, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to another world when you get there. The area is extremely peaceful.

Created about 30 years ago, it’s two hydroelectric generating units, each having a capacity of 4.5 MW. The dam is 1,950 long, and it reaches a height of 59 meters. Most people visit for the relaxation, however. You can spend your visit swimming or kayaking!

If you have a lot of time to spend, you could book one of the floating bungalows for an overnighter (or a whole weekend!) If you don’t go on a tour from Chiang Mai, you’ll need to rent a boat to get you out to the floating bungalows.

• Distance : 32.4 miles (52.3 km)

Chiang Rai was initially founded in 1262 by King Mengrai, making it one of the oldest cities in the country. Many people make the trek to Chiang Rai to visit the Golden Triangle — an overlook on the Mekong River where you can see both Myanmar and Laos.

In addition to the Golden Triangle, you can also visit Wat Phra That Doi Tung temple and the nearby markets. The vendors sell faux jade jewelry, Thai desserts, and many other trinkets.

Another tourist attraction in Chiang Rai is the White Temple. While it’s called a temple, it is not actually a place of worship. It was created by a contemporary Thai artist named Chalermchai Kositpipat. The outside is a mesmerizing white, and the interior includes art installations like quirky murals featuring Superman and Keanu Reeves!

• Distance : 115.6 miles (186.1 km)
• How to get there : Take a bus, rent a car, or book a tour
• Time to get there : About 3 hours

The Mae Sa Waterfall consists of eight beautiful tiers. The view from the top is stunning (and tends to be the least crowded.) Some tiers are unsafe for swimming, but the last tier has a large pool safe for taking a dip. There are also large rocks great for a photo op or bathing in the Thailand sun’s warm rays.

You can sample goodies from the onsite food vendors if you don’t bring along a picnic. You’ll often find spicy Thai salads, fried meats, and more.

Once you’ve had your fill of Mae Sa, you cam take a short trip down the road and stroll the lovely Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens! Opened in 1919, the gardens include 560 acres of tropical Asian plants including a Rainforest Glasshouse.

• Distance : 13.6 miles (21.9 km)
• How to get there : Book a tour, rent a car, take a Grab
• Time to get there : 30 minutes

While you could easily fill your days in the city of Chiang Mai, it is fun to take a trip out into the surrounding country as well! If you only have time for one day trip, I would choose either Mae Kampong Village or the Grand Pagodas at Doi Inthanon. Both will help beat a little of the heat since they are at higher elevations, but they are also absolutely stunning! Don’t leave your camera behind.

About the author

Travel Reporter - Alaska Expert

Dara is a travel writer, political news junkie, and part-time actress. Born in south, she spent her childhood hopping around the U.S., even venturing as far away as Kodiak, Alaska. When not bent over her laptop or prancing around on stage, Dara can be found binge-watching Netflix, making endless to-do lists, or reading a sci-fi book.

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The PERFECT 3 Days in Chiang Mai Itinerary

C hiang Mai is one of our favorite places to visit in Thailand. Situated in the misty mountains of northern Thailand, this ancient city offers culture, nature, and adventure to all who come to explore it.  

Whether you’re coming to marvel at Chiang Mai’s countless temples or explore the national parks and elephant sanctuaries just outside the city limits, spending 3 days in Chiang Mai promises a memorable experience. 

For first-time visitors to this beautiful and relaxing city, we’ve laid out the perfect 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary that gives you a taste of both the excitement and the serenity that Chiang Mai offers.

3-Day Chiang Mai itinerary overview

From trekking through lush jungles alongside elephants to savoring delectable Thai cuisine , here’s how to make the most of your three days in Chiang Mai.

Day 1 of 3 days in Chiang Mai

Your first day in Chiang Mai will be all about exploring the city itself. We took the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai , which put us in Chiang Mai fairly early in the morning, around 7:30 a.m. Regardless of how you arrive in Chiang Mai, be sure to be dressed modestly for touring the temples in the city, which means linen pants or long skirts or dresses that cover both your legs and your shoulders.

On the first day of  this 3 day Chiang Mai itinerary, you’ll visit the following places. 

Wat Phra Singh

Wat chedi luang.

• Lunch in the historic city center

Wat Chiang Man

• Dinner and explore the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Day 2 of 3 days in Chiang Mai

Your second day in Chiang Mai will take you out of the city for most of the day to visit one of the elephant sanctuaries that Thailand is famous for .

If you’re visiting Chiang Mai with kids , this will likely be their favorite day spent. 

• Visit an Elephant Sanctuary with lunch (we visited Into the Wild Elephant Camp )
• Swim and get cleaned up at the hotel or book a Thai massage
• Visit another one of Chiang Mai’s famous night markets for dinner and souvenir shopping

Day 3 of 3 days in Chiang Mai

Your third and final day during your 3 days in Chiang Mai also takes you out of the city to see one of the most famous temples, as well as to visit an indigenous Hmong tribal village. 

• Day trip to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Hill Tribe Village (with lunch)
• Dinner back in Chiang Mai

Best time to visit Chiang Mai

If you’re planning a family trip to Thailand and want to visit when the weather is best, many consider November through February to be the ideal time of year. 

During this period, Chiang Mai experiences cooler temperatures and lower humidity than it does during the scorching summer months. Additionally, this time coincides with some of Thailand’s popular festivals of Loy Krathong and Yi Peng, where the sky is adorned with countless floating lanterns. 

The months of March to May bring warmer weather. And finally, the rainy season runs from June to October. The weather is also quite hot during the summer months. However, we visited during the rainy season, and experienced only one brief downpour in Chiang Mai that lasted about 45 minutes.

So, if you are planning around your kids’ school breaks and the summer months are the only time of year that allows for a 2 week Thailand trip or longer, then don’t let the rainy season discourage you from visiting. 

Where to stay in Chiang Mai for 3 days

Because Chiang Mai is such a popular destination, you’ll find a wide variety in lodging, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts.

Whether you stay within the Old City gates or just outside the gates, you’ll find lots of conveniently located places to stay. 

Here are a few hotel options that are within walking distance to many of Chiang Mai’s top attractions.  

• Centara Khum Phaya Resort
• Celosia Hotel (where we stayed)
• Melia Chiang Mai

Day 1 highlights of this 3 day itinerary for Chiang Mai

When you arrive in Chiang Mai, or any other city, it’s a good idea to simply spend the day walking  around the tourist center of the city and familiarizing yourself with it. So, on your first day in Chiang Mai go for a walk in the UNESCO World Heritage designated historic center, but make sure it’s a walk with purpose. 

If the heat is sweltering or you prefer a guided experience, book a tuk tuk tour that will take you to some of the most popular temples.

The city is home to dozens of temples, so you’ll want to map out the ones you personally want to visit. Here are three we recommend. 

Dating back to the 14th century, Wat Phra Singh houses the Phra Singh Buddha, one of the most revered in northern Thailand. 

The temple complex boasts beautiful, ancient architecture with multi-tiered roofs and intricately carved wooden structures leafed with gold. 

The main assembly hall houses the grandiose Buddha statue. The Phra Singh Buddha is one of the most revered Buddha images in Thailand, second only to the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew in the Grand Palace- a must-visit on any Bangkok itinerary . 

Wat Chedi Luang is another majestic temple located in the center of Chiang Mai.

It once housed the Emerald Buddha, prior to being moved, eventually making it to its current location in Bangkok.

Although time and the elements have weathered its grandeur, the main chedi (stupa) still stands as a remarkable testament to the age of the city. It remains the largest chedi in Chiang Mai. 

The temple complex hosts daily monk chats where visitors can ask them anything about Buddhism and Thailand. 

There is at least one building in the complex that doesn’t allow women to enter, but as one of the most notable temples in Chiang Mai, it’s worth the time and small admission fee to visit.

Believed to be the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, Wat Chiang Man was our personal favorite. Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai, the city’s founder, the temple has a serene atmosphere. The beautifully adorned main viharn (assembly hall) is the highlight of the temple. 

However, don’t miss the Phra Sila (Crystal Buddha), a small but exquisite crystal Buddha image believed to have magical powers. 

Day 2 Chiang Mai highlights

Many of the best things to do in Chiang Mai actually lay outside the city. On your second day, book a day trip to one of the ethical elephant sanctuaries. 

Into the Wild Elephant Sanctuary

Although there are a lot of elephant sanctuaries surrounding Chiang Mai, you’ll want to do your research, as not all of the “sanctuaries” treat the elephants in an ethical manner. 

We chose Into the Wild Elephant Camp , which is about 1 ½ hours from Chiang Mai. Our transportation was included with our booking.

At Into the Wild you will get to feed the elephants, and go on a trek through the jungle with them. The elephants are allowed to roam freely without any ropes or leads. 

After the morning trek, you’ll be able to get in the mud and the river with the elephants that choose to get in there and help bathe and cool them off.

The elephants are never expected to perform tricks for tourists nor are tourists allowed to ride them. 

You can tell that both the elephants and the operators of the sanctuary have a mutual respect for each other, which made us feel comfortable with our interactions with these majestic creatures.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Kalare Night Bazaar

After you return from your outing to an elephant sanctuary, you’ll probably want to shower and get cleaned up. Before heading out for dinner that evening.

The best places to eat in Chiang Mai are at the night markets. You’ll find lots of vendors selling a variety of delicious, yet inexpensive Thai food options, like Khao Soi, Pad Thai, Moo Ping and Sai Ua. If you’re not sure what to order, book a street food market tour with a local guide.

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and the Kalare Night Bazaar across the street are among the best markets that comes alive after sunset. 

You’ll not only find a food court area with dozens of different food stalls, but this iconic bazaar stretches several blocks selling endless goods and unique Thai souvenirs . 

Visitors can wander through the lanes of colorful stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and traditional textiles to t-shirts and carved soap. 

The markets, particularly the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar exudes a festive ambiance, creating a sensory experience while you’re shopping for treasures and savoring local delicacies. 

We ate at and explored the night markets every night during our 3 days in Chiang Mai.

Thai Massage

Whether you end the night with a Thai Massage or get one at another time while in Chiang Mai, make it a point to get a massage! 

We got several massages in Thailand, in Chiang Mai and in the beach town of Krabi in southern Thailand. A Thai massage is one of the best things to do in Krabi , Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket and elsewhere. 

In Thailand, massages are inexpensive and unique, with a mixture of stretching and applied pressure.

Hill Tribe Village

Visiting a hill tribe village in Northern Thailand during your 3 days in Chiang Mai will give you a different than you get in the more developed city.

The Hmong people are an indigenous tribe known for their textiles. While Hmong people live throughout Southeast Asia, Northern Thailand is one of the more populous areas. 

You can book a day trip that will take you to a hill tribe village to see how rural people live in the mountainous areas around Chiang Mai, as well as to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. 

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a majestic temple perched atop a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai. 

One of Thailand’s most famous temples, Doi Suthep requires walking up 300 steps or taking a cable car to get to it. This sacred site is believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha, making it one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in northern Thailand.

Aside from that, the views of the city below are breathtaking set against the backdrop of lush greenery. 

Conclusion: Is 3 days in Chiang Mai enough?

As your three-day Chiang Mai itinerary draws to a close, you may find yourself reluctant to leave this enchanting city. From the serenity of ancient temples to the excitement of bustling markets and the adventure that awaits in the surrounding jungles, your 3 days in Chiang Mai will go by quickly… too quickly probably. 

If your itinerary allows, we’d recommend at least 4 days in Chiang Mai so you can also visit Doi Inthanon National Park and spend more time just basking in the atmosphere of the city.

There are so many other things to do in Chiang Mai for families that you simply won’t be able to fit into a 3 day itinerary. But if time is limited and a few days is all you have, you’ll leave Chiang Mai with a lasting impression and a desire to return. 

Do you have a question or comment about this itinerary for 3 days in Chiang Mai? We’d love to hear from you. Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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The Best Family Day Trips From Chiang Mai

What are the most popular family day trips from chiang mai.

There are SO many places for your family to explore on a day trip around Chiang Mai! Which family day trips from Chiang Mai will be the best fit for your family? Where will you venture on your day trip?

Not to worry as Chiang Mai Family Guide has you covered! We’ve got the BEST family day trips from Chiang Mai specially curated for you below. These are adventures that we have personally been on and approve them all as top kid friendly day trips around Chiang Mai .

Many day trip tours from Chiang Mai are available through a local tour agency, or you can opt to go it on your own. We recommend Take Me Tour to discover local places. Have a look at what they have to offer! Or you could drive to all of the destinations below. Check out how to get around  to see popular options fit for the whole family.

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What Will Your Family Friendly Day Trip From Chiang Mai Be?

Experience northern thailand life.

Experience northern Thailand with this family day trip from Chiang Mai. Take a drive to the locally famous Mae Kampong ancient village and see lush jungle, a waterfall, and walk across a suspension bridge along the way. A day trip out to Mae Kampong is a wonderful family friendly adventure

Hike Through a Natural Wonder

Take a hike through the ‘grand canyon’ of Chiang Mai Affectionately known as Chiang Mai’s ‘grand canyon’ (although quite a bit smaller), is Pha Chor Canyon. It’s located in Mae Wang National Park which is not too far out of town and it makes for a great day trip out of Chiang Mai! 

Go Bamboo Rafting (With or Without Elephants)

Bamboo rafting in Mae Wang is a great fun family adventure! Mae Wang is a subdistrict of Chiang Mai located not far from the city and it’s very easy to get to. The Wang river which you raft on, runs through largely untouched lands and you will see beautiful scenery on your drive there and while floating down the river. You’ll love it so much you’ll want to go again immediately after the trip is over.

Enjoy a Local Hot Spring. Dip Your Feet or Go For a Swim

Way more than just a hot spring, you can even spend the night! A great reason to go on a day trip, this family destination has something for all ages. Adults and grandparents can relax by the hot spring or enjoy a massage. The kids can swim or enjoy the playground. There are plenty of spots for a picnic too. Your family can even stay for the night in one of the bungalows or even go camping!

Take a Kid Friendly Hike up to a Temple

Hike up to this special temple in Chiang Mai. Wat Pha Lat temple used to be a secret. Only those in-the-know knew about it or how to get there. Nowadays, the way to get there is affectionately known as The Monk’s Trail. Nowadays trail is marked ad provides a relatively easy hike up to the temple which overlooks Chiang Mai

Visit Beautiful Chiang Dao

A fun day trip from Chiang Mai that is more than just a cave. Explore the depths of the earth! This very popular tourist destination should be on your list of things to do too! Chiang Dao is a small and very beautiful city not that far from Chiang Mai.

Go Caving (and Maybe See Monkeys) in Mae On

Take the family on a day trip cave experience and possibly see some wild monkeys! Enjoy a hike to a beautiful viewpoint & down into a huge cavern. Muang On Cave offers more than just a journey below the earth. Here you have a chance to interact with some wild monkeys, climb down to the depths of the earth and experience being on top of the world all in one day!

Take a Train to Visit Nearby Lamphun

Does your son or daughter just LOVE trains?! Ours certainly do so we thought we’d take them on their first train ride from Chiang Mai to Lamphun. A perfect little train ride for kids. Take the journey to nearby Lamphun.

Climb Up ‘Sticky Waterwall’

An experience of a lifetime the whole family will love! Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be to stick to walls or stand on incredible angles like Spiderman? Are your kids obsessed with PJ Masks? Now they have a chance to see what it’s like to be Gecko! Get yourselves out to the affectionately known Sticky Waterfall.

Cool Off at Ob Khan National Park (Psst…it’s Free!)

A fantastic day trip to a national park in Chiang Mai for the whole family! A favourite family destination in Chiang Mai for locals and expats alike, Ob Khan national park is only about an hour away from the city. It has much to offer for the day tripper from great picnic spots, to swimming, and hiking.

Spend a Day With the Kids at Huay Tung Tao Lake

Looking for the beach?! This is the closest thing to a beach you’re going to get in Chiang Mai. Enjoy the day at Chiang Mai’s very own lake.  Spend a fun day out with the kids at Huay Tung Tao lake. There is so much to do here you’ll find yourself coming back again and again.

Go to Ob Luang National Park

Learn about human history on this prehistoric adventure near Chiang Mai. Crazy about cave men? Fascinated by the stone age? Ob Luang is the place for you! It was, in large part, designated a national park due its ties to human history.

See Chiang Mai Family Guide for more great ideas of things to do with kids in Chiang Mai.

Related posts, the ancient city of chiang mai a historical wonder, wat pha lat temple – the monk’s trail, wat phrathat doi kham temple, wat chedi luang temple.

💒 Ann & Ben Wedding Guide

⭐️ | please read first, 🛏 | recommended accommodation (options for all budgets), the astra condo, bella nara hotel, na nirand resort, melia chiang mai, aleenta retreat chiang mai, anantara chiang mai resort, 🍽 | restaurants (thai, chinese, and western), ohkajhu organic farm sansai, baan landai fine thai cuisine, the house by ginger, kiew kai ka l one nimman, fern forest cafe, ginger farm kitchen, the ironwood, aum vegetarian restaurant, withilarb chareonmuang, blue noodle shop, khao soi lung prakit kad kom, on the rock @namphrae, khaomao-khaofang imaginary jungle, little stove kitchen, kati breakfast and brunch, rock me burger, sipolle italian food by chef dan, chez marco restaurant and bar, la terrasse french bistro, the salad concept, the service 1921 restaurant, italics restaurant, by hand pizza cafe, bagel house cafe, ugo restaurant, italian gelato and craft beer bar, ☕️ | coffee and dessert shops, the baristro x ping river, homm wan one nimman, akha ama phrasingh, cloud 9 cafe, thai massages, makkha health&spa (burirattana hotel), pranom health massage, makkha health&spa (ancient house), makkha health & spa (night bazaar), 👜 | night markets and shopping, 🐘 | places to visit before or after the wedding （day trips), tha phae gate, pong yaeng ang doi restaurant, elefin farm & cafe, the giant chiangmai thailand, chiang mai night safari, tiger kingdom, the royal agricultural station inthanon, mae wang national park, pong yaeng jungle coaster & zipline, queen sirikit botanic garden, huay tueng thao reservoir.

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