Places to Visit in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Brief Summary
Nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its historic temples, vibrant night markets, and lush natural landscapes. Popular with both backpackers and luxury travelers, the city offers a slower pace compared to Bangkok while still being rich in culture and adventure. This guide highlights the best attractions, useful travel tips, and how to stay connected during your visit.

About Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, often called the cultural capital of Thailand, combines centuries-old traditions with modern comforts. The city is surrounded by mountains and countryside, making it a gateway to trekking, elephant sanctuaries, and hill tribe villages. It’s also famous for its annual Yi Peng Lantern Festival, colorful markets, and thriving café scene.

Quick Facts Table

Stay Connected While Travelling to Chiang Mai

Whether you’re navigating the old city’s winding streets, booking a Grab ride, or sharing photos from Doi Suthep, staying connected in Chiang Mai is a must. With Circles.Life Borderless Plans, you’ll have seamless coverage across Thailand without the hassle of buying a local SIM at the airport.

SIM Only and eSIM Plans for Thailand

Last updated: 22 September 2025

Steps to Activate Circles.Life Roaming for Chiang Mai

1. Open the Circles.Life app.

2. Go to Roaming & Data Plans.

3. Select Thailand (Chiang Mai) from the country list.

4. Choose your preferred data plan and confirm payment.

5. Activate the plan once you land at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).

Top Attractions in Chiang Mai You Shouldn’t Miss

Chiang Mai is a city that blends ancient history with modern charm, making it one of the best places to go in Thailand. Within its old city walls, you’ll find centuries-old temples, while just outside, mountains and lush forests invite adventure. The city is also a hub for cultural festivals, traditional crafts, and some of the best markets in Thailand. Whether you’re into food, culture, or nature, Chiang Mai offers something for every traveler. Here are some must-visit highlights:

Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park is a well-known sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants. Unlike tourist spots that promote rides, this ethical center focuses on conservation and giving visitors the chance to observe elephants in a natural environment. Guests can help with feeding and bathing while learning about the importance of wildlife protection. It’s an unforgettable experience for animal lovers and those wanting a responsible encounter with elephants.

• Location: 60 km north of Chiang Mai

• Entry Fee: From ~THB 2,500 (SGD 95) for a day visit

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (by booking only)

• Why Visit: Ethical elephant sanctuary offering meaningful, hands-on experiences

Doi Inthanon National Park

Known as the “Roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon is home to the country’s highest peak at 2,565 meters. The park features lush forests, waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints that make it a favorite for nature lovers and hikers. Visitors can also see the twin pagodas dedicated to the King and Queen of Thailand, which are surrounded by beautiful gardens. Cooler temperatures at the summit provide a refreshing break from Chiang Mai’s heat.

• Location: 70 km southwest of Chiang Mai

• Entry Fee: ~THB 300 (SGD 12) for foreigners

• Timings: 5:30 AM – 6:30 PM

• Why Visit: Hiking, waterfalls, gardens, and panoramic views from Thailand’s highest mountain

Sunday Walking Street (Tha Pae Walking Street)

This bustling weekly market takes over Ratchadamnoen Road every Sunday evening. It’s packed with stalls selling handmade crafts, souvenirs, local snacks, and street performances. Both locals and tourists flock here, making it one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Chiang Mai. It’s also the perfect spot to try northern Thai dishes like khao soi while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

• Location: Ratchadamnoen Road, Old City Chiang Mai

• Entry Fee: Free to enter

• Timings: Sundays, 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Why Visit: A lively cultural street market with food, crafts, and performances

Chiang Mai Old City Temples

Within the Old City walls, you’ll find dozens of ancient temples, each with unique architectural styles. Highlights include Wat Chedi Luang, with its massive ruined chedi, and Wat Phra Singh, known for its elegant Lanna-style design. Exploring these temples gives you insight into the spiritual life of the city and its centuries-old traditions. The Old City itself is also charming, with cafés, guesthouses, and shops scattered around its narrow lanes.

• Location: Chiang Mai Old City

• Entry Fee: Many temples are free; some charge ~THB 20–50 (SGD 1–2)

• Timings: Generally 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Why Visit: Rich history, cultural immersion, and stunning temple architecture

Chiang Mai: What to Know Before You Go

How to Get to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is served by Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), which offers direct flights from Singapore in just under 3 hours. Travelers coming from Bangkok can take a 1-hour domestic flight, or opt for an overnight train or bus for a more scenic journey. The train in particular is popular for its mountain views and cultural experience.

Getting Around Chiang Mai

The Old City is compact and walkable, but to explore temples and attractions outside the center, transportation is essential. Popular options include Grab ride-hailing, songthaews (shared red trucks), tuk-tuks, and rented scooters. For day trips to mountains, waterfalls, or elephant sanctuaries, it’s best to book a private driver or join a guided tour.

Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai

The most pleasant time to visit is during the cool season (November to February), when the weather is cooler and skies are clear. This period also coincides with major festivals like the Yi Peng Lantern Festival and Loy Krathong. The hot season (March to May) can be very warm, while the rainy season (June to October) brings lush greenery but occasional heavy showers.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

• Budget: Guesthouses and hostels in the Old City are perfect for backpackers.

• Mid-range: Boutique hotels and riverside stays around Nimmanhaemin or Ping River.

• Luxury: High-end resorts in the mountains or spa retreats on the city’s outskirts.

Book your accommodation with Agoda for the best deals on Chiang Mai hotels and earn cashback when you purchase through Circles Zerofy.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Make your visit to Chiang Mai more enjoyable with these practical tips:

• Stay connected with a local SIM or eSIM. This is essential for using Grab, navigating mountain routes, or booking tours on the go.

• Bring a power bank. Full-day trips to temples, national parks, or elephant sanctuaries mean long hours without charging points.

• Cash vs. card usage. ATMs are easy to find, but cash is preferred at markets, food stalls, and tuk-tuks. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants.

• Download useful apps. Grab for transport, Google Maps for navigation, and Klook for booking activities will save time and effort.

Travel Smart – Get Roaming Plans Before Travel

Arriving in Chiang Mai without a roaming plan often means paying inflated airport SIM prices, relying on patchy Wi-Fi in cafés, or wasting valuable time hunting for local SIM vendors. With Circles.Life Borderless Plans, you can activate your eSIM before departure and enjoy instant connectivity the moment you land.

If you’re unsure which option fits best, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Compare your options. Look at how much data you’ll actually need, and weigh the costs of roaming plans versus local SIM cards.

• Check your current provider. If you’re tied to a major telco, review their roaming rates carefully — they often come with hidden fees or limited coverage.

• Think about flexibility. If you travel frequently, an eSIM is often more convenient since it can be activated in minutes and doesn’t require a physical card.

For most travelers, preparing in advance means:

• No stress at the airport.

• Seamless connectivity during temple visits, treks, and night markets.

• Predictable costs, so you can budget your trip more effectively.

By planning ahead, you’ll have more time to enjoy Chiang Mai’s temples, mountains, and cultural festivals without worrying about staying connected.