10 things to do in Chiang Mai

Planning your first trip to Northern Thailand? You’re in for a treat. Known as the “Capital of the North,” Chiang Mai blends culture, nature, and unique northern charm in a way few places can. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Chiang Mai, from sacred temples and lively markets to a Netflix-famous local eatery.. Stay with us at Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub, and you’ll have the perfect base to explore them all.

Top 5 Natural Tourist Attractions in Chiang Mai 2025

Chiang Mai is a year-round destination, with every season offering its own unique charm and atmosphere. Discover Chiang Mai’s natural wonders, breathe in the morning mist, and wander among lush green landscapes. Let’s explore some of Chiang Mai’s most beautiful natural sites.

1. Doi Suthep

Doi Suthep is a must-visit landmark in Chiang Mai. Missing it is like not having visited Chiang Mai at all. Standing atop the mountain is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a city landmark since ancient times.

Enjoy stunning natural beauty, a sea of mist, and exquisite Lanna art. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Chiang Mai. It’s just a 35-minute drive from the Novotel Chiang Mai to this charming city spot, where rich culture meets modern lifestyle.

• Opening Hours: 05.00 AM – 8.00 PM
• Best time to visit: 4.00 PM
• Entrance Fee: 30 THB

2. Changthong Heritage Park

If you enjoy the peaceful shade of majestic trees, consider a visit to the Chang Thong Heritage Park. Known as Thailand’s first ancient tree museum, this park lets visitors see and learn about trees that are more than 100 years old.

The park is filled with fresh, clean air and a sense of the forest. The large trunks provide cool shade beneath the expansive canopy, creating a peaceful haven. Spread across more than 48,000 sqm, the park shelters over 2,000 rare, ancient, and even prehistoric trees, a living treasure trove for nature enthusiasts.

Each tree is from a hundred to several hundred years old, making Changthong Heritage Park both a learning and recreational resource that will impress nature lovers.

• Opening Hours: 09.30 AM – 04.30 PM
• Best time to visit: 10.00 AM / 2.00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Thai citizen 150 THB / Foreigner 250 THB

3. Kiew Mae Pan and Doi Inthanon

If you love nature, Doi Inthanon and Kiew Mae Pan should be high on your Chiang Mai list. Within Doi Inthanon National Park, Kiew Mae Pan features a short yet stunning hiking trail. It’s a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with nature’s beauty.

The trail is famous for vibrant sunsets and a magical morning sea of mist drifting across the mountains. Doi Inthanon and Kiew Mae Pan are ideal for camping or day trips.
Doi Inthanon is the highest peak in Thailand, rising 2,565 meters above sea level. This elevation ensures the surrounding area’s abundant natural beauty and cool climate year-round. It is ideal for explorers seeking to appreciate the beauty of the forest. You’ll encounter towering trees, vibrant green moss, and lush ferns along the trail.

• Opening Hours: 06.00 AM – 04.00 PM
• Best time to visit: 7.00 AM
• Entrance Fee: 200 THB per group

4. Doi Luang Chiang Dao

Doi Luang Chiang Dao is a stunning and pristine natural destination. It’s the third-highest peak in Thailand, rising 2,275 meters above sea level. The climate is cool year-round, and visitors can enjoy a beautiful sea of mist.

Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary opens its doors to tourists every year, from November 1st to March 31st. You can admire the sea of mist in the morning and the sunset in the evening.

If you’re camping overnight, don’t miss the Milky Way at night. This destination combines natural beauty with the charm of the night sky.

• Opening Hours: Can be booked through Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary
• Best time to visit: 04.00 AM
• Entrance Fee: Thai Citizen 30 THB / Foreigner 400 THB

5. Mae Sa Waterfall

Mae Sa Waterfall is a large and beautiful waterfall in Mae Rim District. It’s as beautiful as any other waterfall in Chiang Mai. It’s lush and flowing year-round, and there are many places to enjoy a refreshing swim.

Mae Sa Waterfall has 10 levels, each approximately 100–500 meters apart. Levels 5 through 7 are the most stunning and well-liked. There are shops where you can purchase food and souvenirs, as well as safe walkways.

Enjoy a picnic beneath the trees and take in the beauty of nature, or take a leisurely swim with your family.

• Opening Hours: 08.00 AM – 4.00 PM
• Best time to visit: 09.00 AM
• Entrance Fee: Adult 20 THB / Children 10 THB / Car 30 THB (4 Persons)

Chiang Mai’s top family destinations in 2025

Planning to take your family to northern Thailand is an ideal choice. Novotel Chiang Mai has a lot of family-friendly attractions nearby, especially those that welcome children and offer fun things for everyone to do.

1. Experience Chiang Mai Night Safari

Get up close and personal with incredible wildlife against the stunning northern Thai mountains. Chiang Mai Night Safari offers nature and animal lovers an incredible wild adventure right in the heart of Chiang Mai.

Hours of Operation:

• Day Safari: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Night Safari: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission Fees:

• Adults: 800 THB
• Kids: 400 THB

(Prices may vary based on the terms and conditions of the Night Safari.)

Spanning over 211,200 square meters of pristine forest, it is home to over 400 animals representing over 50 species. You’ll encounter white tigers, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and the latest zoo star, like Ava the golden tiger, up close.

The area is divided into three zones: Jaguar Trails, Savannah Zone, and Predator Zone. Visitors can enjoy exciting performances, photo opportunities, and animal feeding. The whole family will enjoy the entertainment this Chiang Mai destination has to offer.

2. Visit Phra That Doi Suthep – A Sacred Temple with Amazing Views

Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most famous temples in Chiang Mai. It’s on a mountain not far from the city, and you can get there in about 40 minutes by car. When arriving at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, you’ll find a beautiful pagoda surrounded by the beautiful nature of Doi Suthep National Park. If you visited Chiang Mai in the late rainy season to the beginning of the winter season, you might be lucky to see a beautiful sea fog surrounded by the mountains and the peaceful view of Chiang Mai City!

• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: 30 THB for Thai visitors, 50 THB for foreign visitors

Besides exploring the temple, you can learn about Northern Thai (Lanna) culture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while respecting the temple and praying for good luck here.

3. Explore the Sunday Walking Street Market

One of the most well-liked walking streets among Thai and foreign visitors is the Sunday Walking Street, also known as Tha Phae Walking Street. This nearly two-kilometer street offers all local stores to explore, such as Northern folk art, handicrafts, souvenirs, and real local cuisine are all available on the street.

• Opening Hours: Sundays, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Getting There: Take the city’s signature red songthaew (shared taxi) from the Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman

Throughout the evening, there are also cultural performances, such as Lanna-style shows and traditional music. Families can learn about local customs in the ideal setting. Additionally, you can try delectable regional cuisine that is only available here.

4. Art in Paradise Chiang Mai

Art in Paradise Chiang Mai is the only 3D art museum in Chiang Mai. It displays lifelike paintings created with painstaking optical illusion techniques. The artworks are up close for visitors to touch and engage with.

As though you were a part of the painting, you and your family can pose for imaginative pictures. All ages can enjoy this place, but families looking to have a good time together will particularly enjoy it. While adults will love taking pictures with loved ones, children will love posing with the artwork. It’s also a wonderful chance to teach kids to appreciate art in a laid-back setting.

Opening Hours: Open Daily, 09:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Admission Fees:

• Thai Adults: 260 THB (Foreigners: 460 THB)
• Kids: 140 THB (Foreigners: 240 THB)

*Kids under 100 cm tall are admitted free

5. Eat Like a Local at Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom

A visit to Chiang Mai wouldn’t be complete without trying “Khao Soi,” the city’s famous dish. For an authentic Khao Soi experience, head to Uncle Prakit’s Khao Soi Kad Kom. This famous restaurant was featured on Netflix’s “Street Food Asia.”

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
• Price Range: From just 80-120 baht per bowl.

This Khao Soi dish features chewy noodles in a rich coconut milk curry. It comes with tender stewed chicken legs and classic sides. You’ll get pickled mustard greens, shallots, lime, and chili paste. The flavors are well-balanced and easy to enjoy. Both kids and adults will love the comforting taste.

Don’t worry when dining with your family at this Khao Soi restaurant, as the food is served quickly, there’s ample seating, and the prices are reasonable. This is why Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom is a great choice for a delicious Northern Thai meal.

Famous temples in Chiang Mai, important cultural sites that you must visit

Chiang Mai is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its deep cultural heritage. Among its highlights are the many temples that stand as symbols of the city’s history and faith. These sacred places reflect Lanna art, Buddhist traditions, and centuries of devotion. Visiting the famous temples in Chiang Mai allows you to experience both spiritual serenity and cultural richness that make this northern city truly unique.

1. Check in at Tha Phae Gate Historic Charm and Popular Photo Spot

While Tha Phae Gate isn’t exactly a temple, it’s a focal point between Chiang Mai’s culture and way of life. It’s a fantastic place to start if you want to explore the old city and experience the Lanna vibe.

If you’re coming to Chiang Mai, we have to stop by Tha Phae Gate—it’s one of the city’s most photographed spots. Right around the gate, you’ll find cozy little cafés, quirky gift shops, and local eateries that are perfect for a snack break. You’ve got to try some proper Northern Thai flavors here—Sai Ua (the famous spicy sausage), Nam Prik Num (a punchy green chili dip), and crispy pork rinds fresh from the fryer.

And if we’re here on a Sunday, we can wander the Sunday Walking Street and soak up all the sights, sounds, and street food aromas. Whether you come for the history, the food, or just to snap some great photos, Tha Phae Gate is one of those places you can’t skip in Chiang Mai.

2. Wat Ched Yot

One of Chiang Mai’s most famous temples, Wat Chet Yot (Wat Photharam Wihan), is just a short trip from Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub. When you stay with us, getting there is quick and easy, allowing you to worship and explore at your own pace.

With its deep religious and historical significance, this royal temple of the Lanna Kingdom is a must-see. It is believed to have been built by skilled Indian craftsmen between the 8th and 12th centuries. In 1455, King Tilokarat restored the site as the residence of Phra Uttamapanya, a revered monk whose sermons inspired great devotion.

Notable landmarks include:

• Phra Chet Yot: the seven-spired pagoda linked to the 8th World Buddhist Council.
• Ubosot (ordination hall): built in 2045 CE, with unique Usaphalakkhana architecture.
• Stupa of King Tilokarat: a monument honoring the king.
• Satta Maha Sathan: seven sacred sites from the Buddha’s life.
• Ho Trai: the scripture library housing the Tripitaka.

Anyone interested in Buddhism, art, or culture should not miss Wat Chet Yot, which serves as a dynamic spiritual center and a living museum of Lanna heritage.

3. Wat Phra That Doi Kham

Wat Phra That Doi Kham is one of the most important and popular temples in Mueang Chiang Mai District. It is home to Luang Por Than Jai, a revered Buddha statue that is over 500 years old, and has long been a center of community spirituality. The temple’s hilltop location provides sweeping views of Mae Hia Dam and Chiang Mai.

Many tourists come here to pray for wealth and good fortune, as locals believe that sincere prayers will be swiftly answered. Wat Phra That Doi Kham blends beautiful scenery with rich traditions. It’s a place for relaxation, contemplation, and immersion in Chiang Mai’s simple charm. It’s also a place of worship.

Both Chiang Mai residents and tourists alike flock here in hopes of quickly answering their fervent prayers. The temple is both a spiritual center and a peaceful retreat set against Chiang Mai’s stunning northern scenery.

Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub – Comfortable Stay Near All the City’s Check-Ins

Novotel Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub is located in the heart of Nimmanhaemin, Chiang Mai’s hip tourist district. It offers modern, warm, and well-equipped accommodations near the city’s most popular landmarks and landmarks. Choose from a variety of room types, including Junior Suites with mountain views and pet-friendly rooms.

Enjoy Thai and international cuisine at the Food Exchange restaurant, open all day. Enjoy a special Friday night seafood buffet for just THB 999 net per person. After a full day of sightseeing, unwind by the rooftop pool with panoramic views of Doi Suthep.

Book your stay today to start your unforgettable Chiang Mai experience without any problems.