Chiang Mai Things To Do

The steep mountain west of the city harbors the north's holiest shrine. Most come for the panoramic city views, but the gold-plated chedi and upper terrace of carved wood are equally mesmerizing.

Chiang Mai's old town, with its walls still intact, teems with fresh markets, 150-year-old houses and charming alleyways. A handful of temples mingle with cute coffee and handicraft shops.

Enter this must-see temple to discover Viharn Lai Kam, a wooden gem of traditional Lanna architecture, with its exquisitely carved pediment. Inside sits a stout bronze Buddha, also Lanna style.

The former provincial offices house an intriguing multi-media exhibition on Northern Thailand’s distinctive cultures, including the hilltribe and Lanna people. Kids love the knowledgeable guides dressed in traditional clothing.

Hop on the evening safari tram that chugs through natural jungle and spot creatures from the zoo’s 1,000+ predators, apes, reptiles and birds (plus the famous panda bears).