Places of Interest

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
The Temple of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is certainly one of the most important temples in Chiang Mai, as well as one of the most reserved among all Thais. The temple is a major pilgrimage destination during the important Buddhist holidays of Makha Buja and Visak. From the car park, at the temple base - visitors can climb 300 steps for free to reach the pagodas or alternatively, use a tram. Within the site are pagodas, statues, bells and shrines. Aspects of Wat are inspired from both Buddhism and Hinduism. There is a model of the Emerald Buddha and a statue of the Hindu God Ganesh.

Chiang Mai Walking Street
Sunday Market starts around 17:00 and lasts till 22:00, with local craft persons operating stalls along Rajadumnern Road on the inner-east side of the road near Tapae Gate. The street is blocked off from traffic so there is plenty of room to walk. You may also enjoy real Northern Thai food and snacks along this road.

Chiang Mai Zoo
Chiang Mai Zoo was established by the Zoological Park Organization, Thailand in 1974. Situated at a verdant forest land at the foothill of Doi Suthep Mountain, the zoo is surrounded by hilly terrain which is home to thousands of species of wild plants and flowers adorning the natural landscape of valleys, streams and waterfalls. Chiang Mai Zoo is the first and only zoo in Northern Thailand where visitors can experience the excitement and intimacy of various species of animals in their natural habitat.

Maesa Elephant Camp
In the lush tropical jungle of Chiang Mai's Maesa Valley, a big family of elephants lives side by side to their mahout caretakers. "Maesa Elephant Camp" is home to one of the largest assembly of elephants in the north of Thailand. There are elephant shows and rides in the forest. Football and painting are the favourite acts among the elephants. The Exhibition Hall features displays rare stories and photos of newborn elephants along with a collection of hunting equipment. Bananas can be bought to hand-feed the elephants and visitors may take photos with the friendly creatures.

Chiang Mai Night Safari
This is an abundant night safari located in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Visitors can see various kinds of animals such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, Asiatic black bears, tigers, hyenas, crocodiles, etc. by open-air tram. There is also a trekking route to see the wild animals surrounded by a beautiful atmosphere on the lake’s bank that is full of various trees.

For more, see Things to do in Chiang Mai.