Chiang Mai offers a completely different side of Thailand compared to the beach destinations further south — misty mountains, hill tribe villages, and a slower, nature-focused pace. If you’re looking to add a mountain destination to your Thailand trip, Chiang Mai is one of the most rewarding places to visit. Below is our guide to the best things to do in Chiang Mai, including activities bookable directly through Bangkok Holiday Travels, plus a few other well-known local highlights worth knowing about.
This half-day activity combines two of Chiang Mai’s most iconic stops. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of Thailand’s most sacred temples, set high on a mountain with a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai city. The tour continues to the nearby Hmong hill tribe village, where visitors can see traditional textiles, handicrafts, and daily village life up close.
Opening Hours : Doi Suthep Temple: Daily 05:00 – 21:00 hrs. Hmong Village: Daily 08:00 – 17:00 hrs.
Location :Â Google Map
Doi Inthanon is Thailand’s highest peak, often called the “Roof of Thailand.” This full-day tour covers the summit’s King and Queen Pagodas, scenic waterfalls, and cooler mountain air that offers a refreshing break from Thailand’s usual heat.
Opening Hours : Daily 05:00 – 18:00 hrs.
Location :Â Google Map
For a more active version of the Doi Inthanon experience, this tour adds a 2-hour trek along the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail — a scenic loop through cloud forest with panoramic mountain views.
Opening Hours : Daily 05:00 – 18:00 hrs.
Location :Â Google Map
Bamboo rafting offers a peaceful, scenic way to see Chiang Mai’s countryside from the water. Floating gently down the river on a traditional bamboo raft, guided by an experienced local, makes for a relaxing half-day activity.
For sweeping aerial views of Chiang Mai’s mountains and countryside, a hot air balloon adventure offers a genuinely memorable perspective that’s hard to get any other way. Typically scheduled for early morning when conditions are calmest.
For visitors wanting something more active, an ATV adventure takes you off-road through Chiang Mai’s countryside trails. A fun half-day activity suitable for a range of experience levels.
One of Chiang Mai’s most historic temples, located right in the Old City. Known for its massive ancient chedi and peaceful courtyards, it’s an easy stop to combine with other Old City sightseeing on foot.
Opening Hours : Daily 05:00 – 22:30 hrs.
Location :Â Google Map
A large, lively night market in the city center, popular for souvenirs, clothing, local crafts, and street food. Open nightly, making it easy to fit into almost any evening.
Opening Hours : Daily 17:00 – 00:00 hrs.
Location :Â Google Map
A zoo and safari park designed for evening visits, with tram rides and animal shows. A popular option for families looking for an evening activity outside the city center.
Opening Hours : Daily 11:00 – 22:00 hrs.
Location :Â Google Map
Chiang Mai’s famous Sunday-only night market, stretching through the Old City with local crafts, street food, and live performances. Only open one day a week, so it’s worth planning your trip around it if possible.
Opening Hours : Sundays only, 17:00 – 22:30 hrs.
Location :Â Google Map
Chiang Mai works well as either a standalone destination or an add-on to a longer Thailand itinerary. Because many of our activities are half-day experiences, it’s easy to combine two in a single day — for example, Doi Suthep and the Hmong Village in the morning, followed by bamboo rafting in the afternoon, or a Night Bazaar visit in the evening.
Browse our full range of Chiang Mai activities to start planning your trip.
