Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai

Doi Suthep is one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic landmarks, situated just outside the city and home to Wat Phra That, one of Thailand’s most revered and celebrated temples. A visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must when in Chiang Mai, making it one of the most popular half-day excursions.

As you ascend through the jungle along the winding mountain roads, you’ll notice the air turning cool and refreshing. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by vibrant Nagas and will have the option to climb 306 steps to reach the temple (an elevator is also available for a small fee).

Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most stunning and renowned sights in Chiang Mai. Prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking architecture, colorful shimmering mosaics, an exquisitely golden stupa, and spectacular views of the surrounding jungle and the city below.

Doi Inthanon National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts exploring Chiang Mai, as it is home to Thailand’s highest peak. Standing at 2,565 meters above sea level, Doi Inthanon offers refreshing cooler temperatures, lush jungles, stunning vistas, impressive waterfalls, hiking trails, and hill tribe villages.

One of the park’s highlights is the Twin Royal Pagodas, which were constructed to celebrate the 60th birthdays of the Thai King and Queen. Located just below the summit of Doi Inthanon, these striking structures are encircled by beautiful gardens and provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The experience is particularly enchanting at sunrise when the landscape is blanketed in a sea of mist.

The best way to experience Doi Inthanon is by hiking through its natural beauty. There are several trails to choose from, with the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail being the most popular. This two-hour hike is guided by a local Hmong hill tribe member and takes you through lush jungle to various viewpoints. The Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail is also well-known for its waterfalls and has a similar duration of two hours. If you prefer a shorter hike, the Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail offers a quick 20-minute loop around the summit.

Another attraction within the park is its waterfalls. The Mae Klang Waterfall is a stunning seven-tiered cascade that drops into a natural pool where you can take a refreshing dip, while

One of the most sought-after activities in Chiang Mai is experiencing close encounters with elephants. While this can be a remarkable experience, it’s important to research any elephant sanctuary you plan to visit to ensure it is ethical and does not cause harm to the elephants. The Elephant Nature Park is a responsible sanctuary that rescues elephants and offers them a safe and comfortable natural environment. Their mission focuses on promoting ethical tourism and educating visitors about the importance of protecting these gentle giants. The park enforces a strict no-riding policy, as riding can be detrimental to the elephants’ well-being. Instead, visitors are encouraged to feed, observe, and interact with the elephants in their natural surroundings, providing a more meaningful experience than riding ever could.

Elephant Nature Park is situated about an hour outside of Chiang Mai and ranks among the most popular day trips from the city. You can book either a half-day or full-day visit through their website or at various travel agencies in town. The park offers a range of packages that include transportation, lunch, and activities involving the elephants. If you plan to visit during the peak season (November to February), it’s advisable to make your reservations in advance, as spots tend to fill up quickly due to the popularity of this unique experience. If Elephant Nature Park is fully booked, don’t worry—there are several other ethical elephant sanctuaries near Chiang Mai, such as the Rantong Elephant Rescue Centre. Here, you can change into traditional red mahout attire associated with the Karen tribe and participate in feeding and bathing the elephants in a natural setting. Additionally, some Chiang Mai tours combine visits to an elephant sanctuary with activities like exploring the sticky waterfalls, bamboo rafting, or trekking. Just be sure to choose a tour that supports ethical practices and does not permit riding.

If you’re looking to experience one of the most unique and beautiful temples in Thailand, make your way to Chiang Rai. Nestled in the northernmost province, Chiang Rai offers a relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking natural scenery. The crown jewel of the area is the Wat Rong Khun, commonly referred to as the White Temple. Designed by the acclaimed Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, this temple stands out from traditional Thai architectural styles. Its intricate, all-white exterior symbolizes purity and represents the path to enlightenment. The striking design captivates visitors and invites introspection, making it a must-visit destination. While in Chiang Rai, be sure to explore the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), which features a stunning blue exterior adorned with golden accents, creating a vivid contrast that leaves a lasting impression. Additionally, you can visit the Black House (Baan Dam Museum), an intriguing art museum and cultural center showcasing dark and thought-provoking art pieces, providing a unique perspective on Thai culture and artistry.

From Chiang Mai, you can catch a bus or minivan to Chiang Rai, which typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. The easiest way to book your bus ticket is through 12 Go Asia. Keep in mind that the White Temple is situated about 13 km south of the city center, so you will need to arrange for a taxi to get there from the Chiang Rai bus station. Opting for a guided day tour from Chiang Mai offers a more convenient alternative, as it includes transportation and visits to all the essential attractions. This Chiang Rai Temple Tour encompasses transport and a guided experience that covers the White Temple, the Blue Temple, and the Black House, along with a visit to the hot springs.

Further north of Chiang Rai lies the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. Once infamous for its opium production, this area has transformed into a favored tourist destination, captivating visitors with its breathtaking views of the Mekong River and the surrounding mountains. Key attractions include the Hall of Opium Museum, where you can learn about the opium trade and its societal impacts, as well as boat rides on the Mekong River to witness the meeting point of the three countries. Additionally, stunning views can be enjoyed from Wat Phra That Doi Pu Khao, a magnificent temple located atop a hill overlooking the town.

Getting to the Golden Triangle is convenient, as it’s approximately a four-hour drive from Chiang Mai but just a 1.5-hour journey from Chiang Rai. You can take a bus from Chiang Rai to Mae Sa and then hire a taxi or songthaew. It’s also a popular addition to trips exploring Chiang Rai’s temples. For those making a day trip from Chiang Mai, the most efficient way to experience the highlights is by joining a Chiang Rai and Golden Triangle tour, which includes visits to three temples in Chiang Rai, the Golden Triangle, a stop at the hot springs, a Long Neck Karen Tribe village, and a scenic boat ride on the Mekong River. Although it’s a long day, this tour allows you to cover significant ground and experience the best of far northern Thailand in just one day.

One of Chiang Mai’s most distinctive natural attractions is the Bua Tong Waterfalls, commonly referred to as the Sticky Waterfalls. These falls feature limestone formations with a unique texture that allows visitors to walk and climb up the waterfalls without slipping, making for a fun experience.

The Sticky Waterfalls are situated approximately an hour outside of Chiang Mai and can be reached by taxi, motorbike, or guided tour. Day trip packages from Chiang Mai can include visits to both the Sticky Waterfalls and an elephant sanctuary, giving you two unforgettable experiences in one amazing outing.

The vibrant jungles, towering mountains, intricate caves, and ancient temples of Chiang Dao provide some of the most unique nature adventures in northern Thailand. Be sure to explore Chiang Dao Cave, a stunning limestone cave system extending over 12 kilometers. You can embark on a guided tour to witness the breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the serene sleeping Buddha statue within. The nearby Wat Tham Chiang Dao temple, located at the cave’s entrance, is equally enchanting and offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. Another highlight is Wat Tham Pha Plong, a remarkable temple built into the mountainside. Although the ascent can be strenuous, the panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and mountains are well worth the effort, and the chance to explore the unique cave-like temple adds to the experience. After your adventures, you can unwind at the nearby hot springs.

Chiang Dao is situated about 1.5 hours north of Chiang Mai. While you can take a day trip to see the caves and temples from Chiang Mai, consider staying longer to hike to the summit of Doi Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary, a prime location for birdwatching, as well as exploring Pha Daeng National Park. You can reach Chiang Dao via local bus or taxi, but you’ll need transportation to get around once you’re there. Alternatively, guided tours are available, with some options including trekking, rafting, kayaking, or visits to the sticky waterfalls.

Visiting Lamphun offers a delightful journey into the heart of Thailand’s rich history and culture. As the oldest city in the country, Lamphun is steeped in intriguing stories and ancient traditions. The city’s charming streets are lined with beautiful temples, such as the renowned Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, where visitors can marvel at the intricate architecture that reflects the influence of ancient Mon culture. In addition to its temples and the ancient 9th-century Wat Phra That Hariphunchai Woramahawihan. Lamphun features traditional wooden houses and bustling markets, inviting tourists to immerse themselves in the local way of life. Exploring these sites provides a unique opportunity to experience the authentic ambiance of Thailand beyond the more frequented tourist destinations.

This historic riverside city of Lampang boasts an impressive array of ancient temples, traditional wooden houses, and museums. It is also the only place in Thailand where horse-drawn carriages are still in use. The most significant temple here is Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao, which once housed the Emerald Buddha and is worth visiting for its stunning Burmese-style architecture and the Lanna Museum. Be sure to check out the remarkable 13th-century Lanna-style complex of Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, home to Thailand’s oldest and most beautiful wooden temple. Other notable attractions include the twenty golden chedis at Wat Chedi Sao and Baan Sao Nak, a historic Lanna-style house transformed into a museum. Located about 2.5 hours from Chiang Mai (and one hour north of Lampang city) is the unique and lesser-known Wat Chalermprakiat. The white pagodas perched atop jagged limestone peaks, surrounded by drifting clouds, create a surreal and enchanting scene, earning it the nickname “sky temple” and “floating pagodas.”

Lamphun city is just a 30-minute drive from Chiang Mai and is easily accessible via bus, train, taxi, or guided tour (keep in mind that trains are often slower than buses). The Lamphun and Lampang Temple Tour is the most convenient way to explore the four most impressive temples in both cities in one day with a small group. Other tours concentrate on visiting Wat Chalermprakiat (the sky temple).