What To Do in Chiang Mai to Complete Your Thailand Trip

Tuesday, October 2, 2018

Chiang Mai is a fascinating city located in Northern Thailandinfo-icon and is full of different attractions. If you are thinking what to do in Chiang Mai to experience its best essence, the list is endless. 

The entire city is dotted with over 300 pagodas and is a cultural capital for Buddhist devotees from around the world. On the other hand, it is a nature-bound place with towering mountains and lush greenery. 

You will definitely fall in love with Chiang Mai as it is a peaceful and adventurous place at the same time. 

So, sit back and check out some of the best places that you shouldn’t miss while you are in Chiang Mai! 

Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang is just one of the many old Chiang Mai temples.

One prominent thing in Chiang Mai is its variety of temples and pagodas belonging to different kingdoms. 

Wat Chedi Luang, translated as the ‘Temple of the Great Stupa’ is such an outstanding shrine. The sacred site was first built by King Saen Muang Ma to hold the ashes of his father. The pagoda or the Chedi here is the most significant object because it is grand in architecture and 60 meters in height. 

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The Chedi was actually 120 meters in height until an earthquake collapsed half of it. It has also housed the Emerald Buddha Image; Thailand’s most sacred relic, for nearly a century. 

The temple also has two outstanding Viharas and a city pillar known as the Sao Inthakin.

Chiang Mai Zoo

In the Chiang Mai Zoo, you can see the panda, an absolutely cute creature that is endangered and was sent as a gift from China.

If you find yourself as a wildlife enthusiast, this is your ideal what to do in Chiang Mai activity. The zoo which expands over 200 acres of land has a collection of nearly 400 animals from around the world. 

The area is surrounded by lush greenery providing a very wild and a natural environment for the animals as well as for the visitors. Visitors can also have a close-up time with animals like giraffes and zebras. 

Can't decide between Bangkok and Chiang Mai? Don't worry as here you can read and interesting article talking about picking between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Some interesting sights here are pandas that were sent as a gift from Chinainfo-icon, exotic Southeast Asian species, the Humboldt Penguin exhibit, the aviary and the aquarium.

Wiang Kum Kam, the Underground City

Wiang Kum Kam is the underground ancient city that was buried by flood in the area where Chiang Mai stands now.

If you like to explore historical remnants, this should be your next what to do in Chiang Mai activity. Wiang Kum Kam was the 1st capital city of Lana Kingdom and has an interesting story beneath its ruins. 

It was buried a few years later after its construction because of heavy floods. However, the archeologists were able to discover the remains of the city in 1984. 

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Around 42 sites are rediscovered so far while they continue to search for the Royal Palace. So, head to Wiang Kum Kam to explore historical items such as Buddhist statues, stone tablet inscriptions, carvings, pottery items and much more. 

It's located 5km from the city and will be more interesting if accompanied by a good tour guide. 

Chiang Mai’s Sunday Night Market

Chian Mai's Sunday Night Market is a perfect place to try out the authentic Thai cuisine or check out the local shops with local goods and valuables.

If you want to try out authentic Thailand cuisine and enjoy shopping for souvenirs, this is ideal for you. Even though the market is only on Sundays, it is something that you shouldn’t miss if you can visit it. 

What many tourists love about this market are the food items offered by the vendors which are absolutely delicious. You will also find a range of handicrafts and other items by the locals at a very affordable price. 

The goods are made using a variety of materials like ceramic, wood, paper, fabric and so on. While some of these are beautiful ornaments that your family and friends will love, others are useful goodies you can use at home. 

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So, add this to your what to do in Chiang Mai list.

Art in Paradise Museum

The entry price to enter the Art in Paradise in Chiang Mai is very low and will offer you an amazing experience!

This is a unique museum in Chiang Mai that exhibits different kinds of 3D paintings done by Korean artists. It was opened in the year 2013 and is the world’s largest 3D Art Museum so far. 

Visitors can have a very entertaining time here, and you will be amazed as to how creative and lifelike these paintings look.

The museum is divided into eight zones namely, Aqua, Zoo, Dinosaur, Surrealism, Classic Art, Lanna, Thai, and Egyptian. Walk through these places and get lost in the world of imagination. 

Cross dangerous bridges, go surfing in the monstrous sea and visit famous sights; all in one place. If you want something unusual in your what to do in Chiang Mai list, this is perfect!

Still don’t know what to do in Chiang Mai?

Undoubtedly, these places in Chiang Mai will make your tour unforgettable, thrilling and fun. It doesn’t matter whether you travel alone, with family or with your special someone because these places will aptly answer anyone’s question; what to do in Chiang Mai. It is even better if you can allocate some quality time of 3-4 days to explore this city. Chiang Mai is underrated in comparison to other cities because travelers are less aware of the amazing sights they can explore here. It’s truly an amazing place for you to spend some relaxing time in Thailand while experiencing nature and culture.

Raeesha Ikram freelance content writer for aSabbatical
Travelling isn’t a mere journey to different places. Instead, it’s an eye-opener revealing how beautifully diverse the world is.