The Old City and its temples
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| The Old City | A city inside old walls and a moat, full of temples, cafés and markets. | Central Chiang Mai |
| Wat Phra Singh | One of the city's most beautiful temples, in the northern Lanna style. | Old City |
| Wat Chedi Luang | A temple with a huge stone stupa, half-ruined for centuries. | Old City |
| The Silver Temple (Wat Sri Suphan) | A temple covered in engraved silver inside and out, a gleaming work of art. | South of the Old City |
Mountains and nature
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Doi Suthep temple | A golden temple on the mountaintop, reached by 306 steps, overlooking the whole city. | West of the city |
| Doi Inthanon | Thailand's highest mountain, with waterfalls, trails and more than 350 bird species. | About 58 km from the city |
| Elephant sanctuaries | Feed the elephants and watch them bathe, in sanctuaries that don't allow riding. | Half a day or a full day |
Markets
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday Walking Street | A street closed to traffic and filled with handicrafts and street food. | From Tha Phae Gate every Sunday evening |
| Night Bazaar | An evening market for shopping and souvenirs most days of the week. | Chang Klan Road |
Tips before you go
- November to February is the best time, with mild weather and clear skies.
- Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples.
- Choose elephant sanctuaries that allow no riding and no shows.
Flights to Bangkok
More places nearby
Visa
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Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Chiang Mai?
The Old City and its temples, the Silver Temple, Doi Suthep, Doi Inthanon, the elephant sanctuaries and the Sunday market.
How many steps up to Doi Suthep temple?
306 steps, or a funicular for those who prefer not to climb.
How far is Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai?
About 58 km; plan a full day for the waterfalls and the summit.
Planning your trip to Thailand? Read Travel to Thailand from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; ticket prices and opening hours are set by each attraction and may change, so check them on the official website before you go.