Here is a list of the things you should see and do in Chiang Mai on a budget, plus much more

The city of Chiang Mai is located in Northern Thailand, nestled in the mountains, where the city is surrounded by a beautiful nature and a vibrant culture that make it an ideal destination for travelers. Known for its stunning temples, rich heritage, and friendly locals, Chiang Mai offers an immersive experience for anyone looking to explore Thailand’s genuine charm in its natural setting. You are guaranteed to have a memorable journey in Chiang Mai, whether you are hiking through lush jungles, learning about ancient customs, or dining on mouthwatering Thai street food.

The purpose of this guide is to provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Chiang Mai, including the top things to see and do, how to stay safe, where to stay, and insider tips for making the most of your money.

8 Things to See and Do in Chiang Mai
10 More Things to Explore in Chiang Mai
How to Stay Safe in Chiang Mai
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
Typical Costs in Chiang Mai
- Food
- Accommodation
Suggested Budget for Chiang Mai
Money-Saving Tips for Chiang Mai
How to Get Around Chiang Mai
When to Go to Chiang Mai
Best Places to Book Your Trip to Chiang Mai

Here are eight things you should do in Chiang Mai if you have time

1. Visit the Temples of Old Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s temples are an essential part of the city’s charm. The Old City is home to more than 30 temples, each showcasing unique architecture and a rich history.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: No visit to Chiang Mai is complete without a trip to this iconic temple perched on a mountain, offering panoramic views of the city. The golden chedi (stupa) is a beacon for those seeking spiritual solace or awe-inspiring views.
Wat Chedi Luang: A grand ancient temple located in the heart of the Old City, Wat Chedi Luang once housed the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most revered statue. Its massive, partially ruined chedi provides a glimpse into Chiang Mai’s storied past.

“Standing atop the Doi Suthep temple, I could see the whole city below me, with its winding streets, greenery, and distant mountain peaks—a scene straight out of a postcard. The air was thick with serenity, the scent of incense floating through the cool breeze.”

2. Visit Doi Inthanon National Park and see what it has to offer

It is the highest point in Thailand, Doi Inthanon, with spectacular views, waterfalls, and a variety of flora and fauna that are unique to Thailand. It is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Chiang Mai’s natural surroundings than to hike through its misty jungles.

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: This trail offers a stunning walk through the clouds, surrounded by evergreen forest and panoramic views of the valleys and peaks.
Vachirathan Waterfall: A powerful waterfall that’s perfect for a cool dip or a picturesque photo stop.

3. Shop at the Night Bazaar

For those looking for an authentic shopping experience, Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar is an absolute must-see. From handmade jewelry and traditional clothing to street food stalls, the vibrant market pulses with energy and color every evening.

“Wandering through the Night Bazaar, I lost myself in a maze of trinkets and food stalls. The buzz of bargaining and the smell of grilled satay were a sensory overload.”

4. Visit the Elephant Nature Park

Chiang Mai is home to several ethical elephant sanctuaries, and the Elephant Nature Park is one of the best places to interact with these majestic creatures. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued elephants, allowing visitors to feed, bathe, and learn about elephant conservation.

“Spending time with the elephants at the Elephant Nature Park was humbling. These beautiful, gentle creatures, once mistreated, now seemed content and loved.”

5. Take a Cooking Class

If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, learning how to cook local dishes is a must. Chiang Mai is known for its culinary schools where you can learn to make everything from Pad Thai to Tom Yum Goong.

Baipai Thai Cooking School: A top-rated cooking school offering hands-on lessons in traditional Thai cooking.
Thai Farm Cooking School: Set in a lush farm, this school offers a great mix of cooking and learning about local ingredients.

6. Hike to Huay Tung Tao Lake

For a more peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Huay Tung Tao Lake, a serene spot about 30 minutes outside Chiang Mai. Surrounded by mountains and dotted with bamboo huts, it’s an ideal place to relax, swim, or take a boat ride.

7. Relax at a Traditional Thai Spa

After a long day of sightseeing, treat yourself to a relaxing Thai massage. Chiang Mai boasts a wide variety of spas offering everything from foot massages to full-body treatments.

Oasis Spa: One of the most luxurious spas in the city, offering tranquil environments and rejuvenating therapies.

8. Take a Traditional Lanna Cooking Class

Lanna cuisine, unique to the northern region of Thailand, is a delicious fusion of flavors. Chiang Mai is the perfect place to sample and learn how to prepare local dishes like Khao Soi (a curry noodle dish) and Sai Oua (northern Thai sausage).

A list of 10 more things to see and do in Chiang Mai

There is nothing quite like flying above the treetops at Flight of the Gibbon Zip Lining. This exhilarating zip-line experience will have you soar above the jungle canopy.
Take a trip to the Chiang Mai Zoo and see pandas and other exotic animals in a family-friendly environment.
Take a Thai massage in Nimmanhaemin. This trendy area is surrounded by many spas and wellness centers that offer Thai massage services.
Visit the Sunday Walking Street Market: This market is a must for art lovers and is packed full of handmade crafts and local artwork that is sure to delight.
Discover the lifestyle and culture of the Karen Hilltribe people with a trek to the Karen Hilltribe villages.
It is a must for visitors to Chiang Mai to visit the Chiang Mai Art and Cultural Center to learn about the history of the city.
A visit to Chiang Mai during the Yi Peng Lantern Festival is a truly magical experience, so if you’re lucky enough to be in the city during the festival, release a lantern into the sky for a truly magical experience.
Chiang Mai National Museum is a great place to visit if you are interested in the history of the area and would like to learn more about it.
Take a trip to the Golden Triangle: Located just a few hours from Chiang Mai, this region offers a glimpse of Thailand’s border with Laos and Myanmar.
For train enthusiasts or anyone interested in history, the Chiang Mai Railway Station is one of the world’s most beautiful architectural gems.

How to Stay Safe in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is generally considered safe for travelers, but, as with any destination, it’s essential to remain vigilant. Here are a few tips:

Avoid Scams: Like any popular tourist destination, Chiang Mai has its share of scams. Be cautious when dealing with street vendors or tuk-tuk drivers, and always agree on prices beforehand.
Protect Your Belongings: Petty theft can happen, especially in crowded areas like markets. Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items.
Street Safety: While walking around the city, stay alert, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone in dark alleys.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, you’ll find something perfect for your stay.

Budget Accommodation

Green Tiger Vegetarian House: Located in the Old City, this eco-friendly guesthouse offers affordable rooms and a vegetarian restaurant.
The Hug Chiang Mai: A budget-friendly hostel with clean rooms and a great social atmosphere.

Mid-Range Accommodation

De Lanna Hotel: A stylish hotel offering a mix of comfort and convenience, perfect for those looking for a mid-range option.
Sirimok Travelodge: A lovely boutique hotel with a pool and spacious rooms.

Luxury Accommodation

Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai: This 5-star resort offers luxury villas with stunning views of the rice fields and mountains.
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort: A luxury resort situated by the river with exceptional service and amenities.

Typical Costs in Chiang Mai

Food

Thai street food is world-renowned, and Chiang Mai offers some of the best dishes at budget-friendly prices. Expect to pay:

Street food: Around ฿40-฿100 per dish (USD 1-3).
Restaurant meals: Around ฿150-฿500 (USD 5-15) per person for a mid-range meal.

Accommodation

Budget accommodation: ฿300-฿1,000 per night (USD 10-30).
Mid-range accommodation: ฿1,000-฿3,000 per night (USD 30-90).
Luxury hotels: ฿3,000-฿10,000 per night (USD 90-300).

Suggested Budget for Chiang Mai

For a budget traveler, expect to spend around ฿1,000-฿1,500 (USD 30-45) per day, covering accommodation, meals, and activities. A mid-range traveler may budget ฿2,000-฿4,000 (USD 60-120) per day, while luxury travelers may spend upwards of ฿5,000 (USD 150) per day.

Money-Saving Tips for Chiang Mai

Eat at Street Food Stalls: Street food is not only delicious but also incredibly cheap. Stick to local joints for authentic meals at a fraction of the price of restaurant food.
Use Public Transport: Chiang Mai’s songthaews (shared red trucks) are an affordable way to get around the city. Also, consider renting a scooter for greater flexibility.
Book Tours Directly: Instead of booking tours through international agencies, check with local operators to get better rates.

How to Get Around Chiang Mai

Tuk-Tuks and Songthaews: Traditional Thai taxis are widely available. For short distances, these are convenient and affordable.
Bicycles and Motorbikes: Renting a bike is a great way to explore Chiang Mai at your own pace.
Public Transport: The city has a reliable network of local buses that are cheap and efficient.

When to Go to Chiang Mai

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. Avoid the rainy season (May to October) as heavy rains can disrupt outdoor activities. However, if you enjoy festivals, April is an exciting time to visit during the Songkran Festival.

Best Places to Book Your Trip

Skyscanner: Great for comparing flights and finding the best deals.
Agoda: A trusted platform for booking accommodation in Chiang Mai.
Viator: Perfect for booking local tours and experiences, from cooking classes to elephant sanctuaries.

You’ll find what you’re looking for in Chiang Mai, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. Featuring ancient temples, stunning natural landscapes, delicious food, and affordable accommodations, it’s a destination you won’t want to miss. You’ll find everything you need to make your trip to Chiang Mai unforgettable with this guide. Best wishes on your travels!

Chiang Mai Travel Guide: Top Attractions and Tips