Chiang Mai Province

Region · 🇹🇭 Thailand

Population 1,784,370

Area 22,754 km²

Time zone Asia/Bangkok

Official website www.chiangmai.go.th

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Featured Lists

Takeaway / CC BY-SA 3.0

Chiang Mai Province Essentials

Chiang Mai Province Essentials showcases the region's deep historical roots and natural grandeur. The collection features ancient Lanna-style temples such as the 13th-century Wat Chiang Man and the massive 15th-century ruins of Wat Chedi Luang. Beyond the old city's Thapae Gate, visitors can explore the bustling stalls of Warorot Market or ascend the granite peaks of Doi Suthep and Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest point. From the unique tunnel complex of Wat Umong to the historic 1797 liberation site at Wat Bupparam, these landmarks define Northern Thailand’s cultural and geographical identity.

16 places

Hdamm / CC BY-SA 3.0

Historic Temples & Sacred Sites

Chiang Mai’s spiritual landscape is defined by Lanna-style architecture, characterized by tiered wooden roofs and intricate gold carvings. This collection includes the 14th-century ruins of Wat Chedi Luang and the city's oldest sanctuary, Wat Chiang Man. Highlights range from the silver-clad ordination hall at Wat Sri Suphan to the forest-shrouded Wat Pha Lat and the subterranean tunnels of Wat Umong. Many sites, such as Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, house sacred relics and offer panoramic views of the valley.

15 places

Must-See Attractions

Chiang Mai’s diverse landscape spans the 13th-century ruins of Wiang Kum Kam and the royal winter gardens of Bhubing Palace. Natural landmarks include the dramatic river canyon of Op Luang National Park and the high-altitude cherry blossoms of Khun Wang. Ethical animal conservation is centered at Elephant Nature Park and Chai Lai Orchid, while Doi Tao Lake and Huay Tueng Tao offer water-based recreation at the foot of the northern mountains.

10 places

Vasa Carapic / CC-BY-SA

Museums & Culture

Chiang Mai’s cultural landscape features the 14th-century Wat Chedi Luang, known for its massive ruined pagoda and Lanna-style architecture. The National Museum preserves Northern Thai history and art, while the Highland People Discovery Museum provides ethnographic insights into the region's diverse hill tribes. Specialized collections include the Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders, which displays extensive entomological specimens and fossils, and the Elephant Poopoopaper Park, an eco-friendly museum demonstrating sustainable paper production from elephant fibers.

5 places

Temples and Nature

Explore Chiang Mai’s spiritual heart and diverse geography, ranging from 14th-century Lanna temples within the old city walls to the sub-alpine heights of Doi Inthanon. This selection highlights architectural landmarks like the massive ruined pagoda of Wat Chedi Luang alongside natural features such as the mineral-rich Bua Tong 'Sticky' Waterfall and the sulfurous geysers of Sankampaeng. Forest sanctuaries like Wat Pha Lat and tunnel temples like Wat Umong illustrate the unique integration of Buddhist practice with Northern Thailand’s mountain landscapes.

19 places

lopsura / CC BY 3.0

Wilderness Escapes

Chiang Mai’s natural landscape features diverse geological formations, from the mineral-rich Bua Tong 'Sticky' Waterfall to the high-altitude cascades of Wachirathan and Sirithan on Doi Inthanon. The region's horticultural heritage is showcased at the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek Park and Suan Buak Haad, while the Sankampaeng Hot Springs offer geothermal pools rich in sulfur. These sites highlight Northern Thailand’s unique combination of tropical flora, limestone water features, and volcanic activity.

7 places