Things to do in Chiang Mai

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Things to Do in Chiang Mai


Book these experiences for a close-up look at Chiang Mai.

From quick jaunts to full-day outings.

Top Attractions in Chiang Mai

These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.
Religious Sites
World’s First Silver Sanctuary World’s First Silver Sanctuary, located at Wat Sri Suphan (Sri Suphan Temple), Chaingmai, Thailand. The Abbot of Sri Suphan Temple, Phrakru Phitak Suttikun (Suphon Suthasilo), Temple Committees, Devotees, and group of Lanna craftsman had been constructed the silver sanctuary by using the former base, former boundary stones and former principle Buddha image (Phra Jao Jed Tue, built in B.E. 2043.). The Silver Sanctuary was built and decorated by Silver Handicraftsmen (Lanna folk wisdom) of Wua Lai Community that has been descended from their ancestors. The sanctuary is decorated with the pure silver on the most crucial and safety parts. Aluminum was used for the decoration of the rest of the sanctuary areas, instead of using pure silver for the whole building. Inside the sanctuary, each carved wall consists of the stories of Lord Buddha, Buddhist Doctrine, History of Phra Jao Liab Lok and Phra Jao Prod Lok (Thai Buddha’s preaching stories), Buddha’s footprint, and the happiness life in believe of Buddhism. On the other hand, the outside of the sanctuary’s walls are symbols of National Institute, Religion, and Royal Family, 4 Lotuses indicating 4 types of human recognition, Personification, King of Naga, ASEAN countries, World’s famous cities, the King’s literary work; Mahajanaka Jataka, Srithandon, and 12 Zodiac Signs. These stories are shown for the stronger believes in Buddhism. The Silver sanctuary has been established since B.E. 2547 for the first time by group of Lanna craftsman using the local wisdom (Silver Crafts) for the decoration; taken for more than 12 years to be completed, with the donation from all believers as total amount of 35,152,314 Thai Baht (Thirty Five Million One Hundred and Fifty Two Thousand Three Hundred and Fourteen). Finally, the construction of World’s First Silver Sanctuary has been completed and ready for all religious services. It is also be the conservation of Wua Lai Community’s wisdom (Silver Handicraft) as a learning center, as religious teaching method, Life’s navigation for all visitors. The most importantly, we have been completed the determination for this sanctuary to become a National Memorial for Thai people and to praise our His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (9th monarch of the Chakri Dynasty). Wat Sri Suphan would like to invite all believers and visitors to our opening ceremony of World’s First Silver Sanctuary and the celebration of 720th Year Anniversary of Nophaburi Sri Nakhonping during 28 March – 3 April 2016.
See full details
1

Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.

Learn more about this content
Tours, activities and experiences bookable on Tripadvisor, ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, popularity, user preferences, price, and bookings made through Tripadvisor.
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travellers are saying

  • James I
    New York City, NY562 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    As the title states, this is more of a complex than a temple, and the main building is closed to the public. This was the only temple area I had to pay to enter, but it was very cheap. Once inside, there are numerous smaller buildings to explore with a nice reclining buddha on display. Keep in mind there is one small building on the grounds that women are not allowed in, but that's only a small part of a large area.
    Written 1 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Cathy L
    8 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This was the highlight of our Thailand trip. Being that close up to friendly older elephants was so fun. I highly recommend this park as our local Thai friends consider this establishment to be ethical and honest.
    Written 17 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • James I
    New York City, NY562 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    One of the larger temple areas in the city, it gets rather crowded here. However, the quiet nature of temples and the garden area on the grounds here help preserve the peace. The most striking feature here for me was the smaller building towards the back that was completely coated in gold. Very easily found and within walking distance of most places in the inner part of Chiang Mai.
    Written 1 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • G9566
    United Kingdom37 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Amazing experience- absolutely vast, I have never experience markets as big as the ones in chiang mai. Whilst this is very touristy, it’s so worth going to, there is something for everyone food and drink wise, with a live band too. On stalls, you’ll find lots of the usual stuff but also some great handcrafted items and art. I’d particularly suggest this for groups of friends, as there’s plenty of seating and something to please everyone. 4 stars only because there’s so many repeats of items being sold (elephant trousers etc)
    Written 3 January 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Richard C
    Warrington, UK401 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    How anyone can cause harm to these amazing beasts is beyond me, and the Kanta Elephant Sanctuary makes sure that the elephants that they look after, 17 at present have a fantastic life. You meet the elephants, feed them, prepare their tasty treats, and then bathe them wearing clothes provided for you. A fantastic experience and day out. Highly recommend.
    Written 18 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • nuichristine
    Cirebon, Indonesia9 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The visit to this temple was a good pick for us
    The history behind it.. the tunnel to get into the temple..
    its beautiful the atmosphere sorround so serene.. worth a visit
    Written 1 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • freetolive
    Singapore, Singapore138 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had the pleasure of being guided around Chiang Mai today by an exceptional driver and tour guide-Andy(Tong)

    His professionalism and knowledge made the experience truly memorable.

    From navigating the city with ease to providing insightful information about the landmarks, he exceeded expectations.

    Highly recommend his services for a fantastic exploration of Chiang Mai!
    I put his contact here just in case anyone wants to contact him Highly recommended.
    Whatsapp-:+66840414704
    Written 17 January 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • PaweenKl
    Bangkok, Thailand135 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful scenery with peaceful atmosphere. Many things to see here including a short trek with a small stream, view of the city and the temple itself. Worth a stop on the way to Doi Suthep.
    Written 27 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kurt Mahler
    Sharjah, United Arab Emirates10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A modest, natural refuge owned by a visionary with a great heart. What is distinctive about this refuge may be its simplicity and personableness. We introduced our grandson to his first real-life elephants after having only looked at them in story books and as toys. A lovely, unforgettable moment.

    ~ kurt mähler, poet & author at kurtmahler.com

    Insta/FB @kurtfrederickmahler
    Written 12 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • NickGi
    Germany23 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Thailand has so many great temples, this one is very unique and probably one of the most beautiful ones. It is a little hidden in Chiang Mai , so ask your way around or get a taxi it tuk-tuk . This is a fantastic artist piece of work with so much to discover in such a small temple.
    Written 18 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Roberto C
    Santiago, Chile190 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    It’s good but nothing so special. Many places where to eat in a casual street way. Clean and safe place to go and walk for a couple of hours
    Written 4 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Yann Renaud
    Switzerland811 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A nice temple, currently under reconstruction. The place is nice and, as many temples in this region, really impressive.
    Written 25 January 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chiang Mai