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.

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

Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai

“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

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

Mon Jam, Chiang Mai

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 tours from Chiang Mai

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

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

Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai

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

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

Wat Rong Khun - White Temple, Chiang Rai
Thomas and Marion, TourScanner ambassadors, visiting the Wat Rong Khun – White Temple 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

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

Namtok Bua Tong, Chiang Mai

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!

Pai, Thailand

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

flower fields tours, Chiang Mai

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

Mae Kampong, Chiang Mai

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!

Chiang Dao Cave, Chiang Mai

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

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

Lampang, Thailand

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

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

12 – Like nowhere else, explore magical Mae Hong Son

Mae Hong Son, Thailand

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

Hang Dong Canyon, Chiang Mai

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

Lamphun, Thailand

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

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

Chiang Dao, Thailand

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

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

Huay Tung Tao Lake, Thailand

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

Doi Ang Khang, Thailand

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

Huai Nam Dang National Park, Thailand

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

Golden Triangle Park, Thailand

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

20 – Chase waterfalls inside Sri Lanna National Park

Sri Lanna National Park, Thailand

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, Chiang Mai

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!

“I live to travel, and travel to live.” With gypsy blood running through her veins, Shannon is a freelance travel writer who has lived on five continents and counting, and is endlessly inspired by new cultures, countries and landscapes. Inscribing words onto paper, since she could talk, she lives and breathes delicious words and stories. Hailing from sunny South Africa, she has an affinity for Southeast Asia and all things spiritual, and is also a qualified Reiki practitioner. When not with her head buried in storytelling (or books) or watching sunrises in new lands, you’ll find her in the kitchen or with a paintbrush in hand. Shannon has written for major travel publications such as TripCanvas.