Chian Mai is a very popular destination In Thailand mainly known for its natural beauty, temples & food. In this article, we will explore some of the must-sees when visiting Chiang Mai.
1. Wachirathan Falls
At tralei, we really enjoy natural spots so we are going to start the guide with some waterfalls. Wachirathan Waterfall is on the way to Doi Inthanon National Park, which we will talk about later. The waterfalls are right next to the parking lot, so no walking is needed, just contemplate the falls, which are 80 meters high and surrounded by vegetation and mist. There are toilets and a place to eat right next to the waterfall.
The entrance fee is:
2. Mae Klang Waterfall
This free waterfall is also found on the way to Doi Inthanon National Park. After parking in the parking lot which is surrounded by 6-8 food spots, you will walk for 500 meters to the waterfall. There seems to be a path to go up to the waterfall but it hasn’t been used for a while and it is full of vegetation and hard to go through so we do not recommend taking that way.
It is possible to go for a swim down at the parking lot.
3. Doi Inthanon National Park
The Doi Inthanon National Park is a 482 km2 area with waterfalls, few trails, remote villages, and viewpoints, but the two main attractions are the summit of the Doi Inthanon which is the tallest Peak in Thailand, and two pagodas: Pagoda Noppamethanedon & Pagoda Nopphonphusiri which were built to celebrate the 60th anniversary of King Rama IX and the 5th anniversary of Queen Sirikit’s birthday.
We visited during the rainy season and we couldn’t see any of the views, which is the main attraction. So we recommend checking the weather as the entrance fees for the Park are a bit expensive and the park is far from Chiang Mai so it is not worth the drive and the entrance with no visibility (attached are some pictures of both, how it should look like with good weather, and what we found.)
Regardless of season, you should bring adequate clothing. The summit is 2,565 meters and it’s often cold. It was 9ºC/48ºF when we got there and raining.
The entrance fee for the park is
Pagoda Noppamethanedon & Pagoda Nopphonphusiri are open from 8:00 A.M. to 5 P.M. and have a separate entry ticket apart from the National Park entrance fee which is:
4. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
This Golden Temple is found on the top of a hill and it takes about 30 minutes drive from Chiang Mai. From the top, there is a viewpoint overlooking Chiang Rai and different shops.
If you are going with a motorcycle it is good to check on the weather as the road is steep and gets slippery when wet.
The entrance fee for the temple is:
5. Wat Pha Lat
On the way to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep from Chiang Mai there is another temple surrounded by vegetation called Wat Pha Lat that we highly recommend stopping too.
It is lesser known than Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and the entrance is free. This particular temple feels more authentic than the majority of famous and touristy temples. This is because it is found among nature and water and in perfect balance with the surrounding environment. It feels like a real Buddhist retreat.
6. Other Important Temples
Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan
Wat Phra Singh is west of the old city center of Chiang Mai. The complex has different gold & copper Buddhas as to the exteriors of some buildings which are covered in gold too.
Temple hours are 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. daily.
Clothing requirements are not enforced unless extreme. You will have to rent shirts and pants if they do not cover your knees and shoulders, or have revealing attire.
Wat Phra That Doi Kham
Wat Phra That Doi Kham is famous for its big white & gold Buddha statue. Temple hours are 6 A.M. to 6 P.M. daily.
7. Elephant Sanctuary
Chiang mai is surrounded by elephant sanctuaris so it is a great option if you are planning to do that activity during your stay in Thailand. In case you are concerned about how sanctuaries work in thailand and any other information regarding the tours with elephans we have created this guide:
8. Food & Souvenirs Markets
There are several famous markets in Chiang Mai.
The most famous is the Chiang Mai Gate Market, open daily from 4 P.M. to 2 A.M.
And you can also find the Chang Phuak Gate Night Market on the opposite side of the city center. This one opens at 5 P.M. and closes at midnight.
Finally, Every Sunday from 5 P.M. to 10 P.M. there is a huge night market all the way through Rachadamnoen Rd. that offers mostly souvenirs but also some great street food.
Thank you for reading our list of must sees from Chiang Rai!
If you think we forgot to mention anything, don’t hesitate to write in the comment section. Stay Safe!
