Chiang Mai, Thailand skyline: the 35 most iconic buildings and best views in Chiang Mai

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is an absolute must-see in Chiang Mai! The journey up the mountain leads you to one of northern Thailand's most sacred and beautiful temples. Climbing the iconic Naga-flanked staircase is a memorable start, and your reward is the stunning, glittering golden chedi at the heart of the complex—it's truly magnificent. Beyond the architecture, the panoramic views of Chiang Mai city from the temple grounds are breathtaking, especially on a clear day. The entire site radiates a wonderful sense of peace and deep history. Don't miss this spiritual and visually rewarding experience!

Recently, I had the chance to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and it was truly a memorable experience. The temple is incredibly beautiful, with stunning architecture, peaceful surroundings, and a breathtaking view of Chiang Mai from the top. The atmosphere is calm and spiritual, making it a perfect place for reflection and relaxation. The climb up the stairs is worth every step once you reach the golden stupa glowing in the sunlight. The entire area is well-maintained, and the cultural significance of the temple makes the visit even more special. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Chiang Mai — a must-see landmark that captures the beauty and spirit of Thailand.

You can take Red Songthaew from Old City with THB 360 (Grab price) which will be cheap for a group. This is a must must must-visit place in Chiang Mai because it has an amazing view over the city from the mountain. In the morning you can enjoy the silent/fresh atmosphere with clouds handing below your eyes (there are multiple spots for enjoying the cloud). There is even a coffee shop inside the temple area from which you can enjoy hot coffee in morning forest fog (sometimes raining). There are also a big golden Chedi in the middle. Too many things to see and feel. Cannot miss this place. Please visit this temple in the early morning (beautifully at 6:00am).

Doi Suthep is a mountain in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and the name of the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Buddhist temple located on its summit. Founded in 1383, the temple is one of northern Thailand's most important and revered religious sites, known for its golden chedi, impressive views of Chiang Mai city, and a 306-step staircase leading to its entrance. Visitors can either climb the steps or take a cable car, and the temple is open to visitors who dress respectfully, covering their shoulders and knees. Is a MUST visited places in chiang mai. The view is spectacular from mountains top to see the city.

The temple is beautiful. Along with tourists, many locals come here on pilgrimage. The panoramic view is stunning, and it’s definitely worth waking up early to enjoy the place in peace, as it has a very calming atmosphere. There is also a replica of the Emerald Buddha (the original is currently in Bangkok), since it was housed in this temple for a period of time.

We rented a motorbike and had a ball on the ride up. Climbing the stairs is challenging but take your time. Coming down be careful. Make sure as a visitor you pay to enter. We got a blessing from the monk. Beautiful views, amazing temple, well worth the stairs.

This Buddhist temple, built on a hill, is located near Chiang Mai city and can be reached by climbing a few stairs. You can reach here from the city by motorbike or taxi. The temple is very impressive and peaceful. From here, a beautiful view of Chiang Mai city is visible. Travelers coming to Chiang Mai should definitely visit here.

Highly recommend visiting this temple. Inside, there are a few shrines where you can take off your shoes and step inside to look around or worship the gods, which feels very spiritual. This is one of the best temples I’ve visited during my time in Chiang Mai.

A must visit place. I went here with my partner and it’s a really beautiful old temple. Specially during the sunset it shines beautifully! Every detail of the temple is just mesmerising. Evening prayers calms one down with monks chanting soothingly. As a foreigner you got to buy ticket but it’s worth the price

What has impressed me that Thai Wat are a sanctuary of Nature: fishes gambol in ponds pigeons pick food squirrels surreptitiously climb the trees. Here in phras Singh thou not water pond but plenty of greenery in conversation with thai temple architecture. Only thing disturbing was the side road on which traffic plies creating pollution in air and and in ears. There is a school it seems and diesel fume emitting buses carry children home may be. Buddha in art is in thai style with flyers for kindness to all living Beings hung around the golden stupa. I think they call Stupa Chedi here. May be I am wrong. Chiang Mai old town seems like a Buddhist pilgrimage. Buddha Namah!

THB 50 for entrance ticket for foreigner. There is a big golden Chedi in inside the area. This is one of the iconic temples in Chiang Mai Old City which is really worth visiting, beautiful, authentic and ancient.

Beautiful temple with plenty to see. Highly recommend checking out the outside and inside of the temple buildings as there is so much detail and artistry on the statues, walls, and ceilings.

Wat Phra Singh – A Jewel of Chiang Mai Wat Phra Singh is one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic temples, famous for its stunning Lanna architecture and the revered Phra Singh Buddha statue. The intricate details, golden accents, and peaceful courtyards create a serene yet awe-inspiring atmosphere. Walking through its halls feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by centuries of history and devotion. A must-visit for anyone seeking culture, beauty, and spiritual energy in the heart of the old city.

A great place that is full of legend, history and culture. I joined an evening walking tour of three ancient temples and was briefed by my guide Vasit on all the details. Vasit knows not only the temples, he also knew all the details about the histories of the temples, the reasons for their construction. The tour was great. It was in the evening evening and avoided the day time heat. The temples also gave a different vibe in the night time. Unfortunately, the tour was interrupted by a long and heavy thunderstorm.

If you’re looking for something interesting to do in Chiang Mai besides shopping, eating, etc. this makes for a great morning out. I was driving and so was able to make my way to each of the sites without hiring transport (which is readily available). The sites are rather sleepy. I didn’t see anyone else there (which added to the experience in my opinion) but the sites are all well maintained. The excavation and renovation work is impressive. There is a small plaque at each of the sites describing its background and significance. An added benefit is the feeling of being in a village, even though you’re only a few minutes from the city.

This place has a special energy. You can feel peace and harmony here, as if time slows down. The beauty of nature and the silence fill you with inner strength, and the air seems to clear your mind. For those who are looking for inspiration and spiritual balance, this is truly a unique spot on the map.

An historic and archaeological site along the Ping River, which was built by King Mangrai around 13th century. A must visit site if you are a history buff and interested on ancient building.

Wiang Kum Kam is a large historical area dated back to over 700 years ago. It used to be the center of Lanna before the center moved to Chiang Mai. Over 40+ temples had been discovered from underground in the area. 10 temples are opened for visitors. They are free to visit but you can support the local by enjoying the horse ride through the area. The rider/guide can give information about the area and temples.

For archeological lovers, this place is a hidden gem. Take the horse carriage ride and enjoy the ruins. At the end, visit the information center for a good historical wrap-up. English is available on the panels and movies. Recommanded.

Old ancient uncovered ruins of what was the old capital after chiang rai but before chiang Mai, before it was abandoned due to numerous floods. Enter through the main entrance and you will be able to go on a guided tour on a open bus or you can hire a horse guided cart. We opted to walk through the old town and took our time visiting the many ancient ruins and speaking to some of the locals. The museum is definitely worth a visit and holds many ancient artifacts. Friendly staff will be more than happy to show you around. It was very quiet when we visited during the week and was peaceful visiting some the old areas. Helpful placards so you can learn more about the each area.

It's ok to visit if you have spare time. However, the ruins are really scattered and spread out over a wide area. Some nice and quiet temples in that area however. Recommend to take either the tram or drive around to visit the sites. It's on a much smaller scale as well, and might be disappointing for those who had visited Ayutthaya outside Bangkok.

Lovely square within the old city of Chiang Mai. The monument is stunning and the area is nice with restaurants and more in close proximity.

We visited this monument on a weekday and it was not crowded. The statues of the kings are very well made and the square is clean.

Three Kings Monument in Chiang Mai is a must-visit landmark in the Old City, commemorating the city’s founding. The bronze statues of King Mengrai, King Ramkhamhaeng, and King Ngam Muang stand proudly in a peaceful plaza surrounded by trees and benches. It’s easy to stroll around and admire the detailed craftsmanship up close. The plaza is especially nice in the morning or late afternoon when it’s quieter, perfect for photos and soaking in a bit of history. Free to visit, it’s a short but meaningful stop that gives insight into Chiang Mai’s heritage.

It's well sculpted monument in realist Style. Since sun was strong I could not capture the finer nuances and gestures of the interactive figures.

This historical site is located in the Old City in Chiang Mai city and I had the opportunity to visit it during the Loy Krathong festival.

The heart of old city, many people doing activity here every time, morning, afternoon also evening. It near many cafes.

Went there after the events of the Yi Peng festivals were over. Got to see the monuments in peace and quiet.

A really interesting museum showcasing Thai Lanna culture. With 20 rooms to visit, allow yourself enough time to do it justice. Entry is Baht 90 per person.

Extremely nice experience! There are 2 stories and so many things to see. Perfect for visiting when it is raining outside. First level shows the past life of the Lanna people, the Buddha statues and the meanings of some of the stuff you see around chiangmai. You will appreciate some of the stuff they are selling at the night markets as well as what you see in the temples after visiting this place. If you're in a rush for time, I suggest you can visit here and skip the Chiang mai culture centre which is just across the road.

The museum is very interesting, many objects and costumes are displayed according to Lanna culture, helping visitors to understand the culture as well as have a place to visit in Chiangmai

Thoroughly explored the whole museum, learned so much about the ancient history of the northern region of Thailand, specifically in relation to how people lived day to day. Was quiet and peaceful and nicely staged museum

We passed this place so many times while staying in Chiang Mai & were finally motivated to go in as our time here comes to an end. What looks like an unassuming government building actually is a wonderful museum providing a profound, yet concise, history of the area & the Lanna culture. All of the exhibits look new & are well cared-for. We visited toward the end of the day & we almost had the place to ourselves. The cost to enter was 90 Baht.

Definitely an awesome museum.I would definitely recommend to check out.I spend almost forty minutes looking around It's definitely an amazing museum

A small but lots of interesting things to learn & see. Should visit together with the Art & Cultural centre.

View @ Chiang Mai City Arts And Cultural Centre. . Housed within a neoclassical building that once served as Mueang Chiang Mai’s municipal hall, the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre offers a compelling gateway into the city’s soul. . Serving as a vivid timeline of the Lanna Kingdom’s history, showcasing its roots, rituals, and transitions through immersive exhibits and multimedia presentations. . Visitors can gain insight into indigenous traditions, political shifts, and everyday life across eras in Northern Thailand, through 15 exhibition halls at the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre.

A great place showing the lives and history of Chiang Mai (previously known as the Lanna Kingdom until layr 19th century oe warly 20th century) and it's relationship with the Siam Kingdom. The centre's coffee shop is a must to visit, which serves a lot of local Thai beans brewed coffee. For some mysterious reason, when I visited, I was greeted by a feline friend as well.

Lots of Interesting historical information here. Give a good overview of Chiang Mai in terms of culture, people, arts. Recommend to visit together with the Lanna Folklore museum & Historical museum in the same area.

Kinda mid. But good for learning and understanding the historical v.s. modern Chiangmai. Explanation of how people in the past (Lanna) used to trade with people in Siam (Bangkok). Can see how people in the past used to live, their house architecture etc. The place a bit stanky and musky though.

Very educational. It teaches so much about the history of Chiang Mai and Lanna culture. 20 Baht to enter. Learned so much by reading all the little exerpts!

A fantastic museum. Very informative and interactive. The exhibits were filled with models, films and easy to read descriptions. All bits of information were in Thai, English and Chinese. The staff were very friendly and helpful. There’s a cool gift shop and a very nice coffee shop in the courtyard of the museum. I highly recommend coming here and taking your time. Great museum.

The cultural centre is well organised and has detailed information on different features of life in Chiang Mai: the old and new times, traditions and celebrations, the daily life, life along the two rivers and even history of the building itself.

Chiang Mai Zoo (including Tram & Aquarium) – Monsoon Season Notes Total cost for one adult: approx. 900 baht (zoo entry + aquarium + tram). They do the tourist tax and it's pretty significant. WALKING HAZARD (this is serious) Don't walk it if it's been raining. I'm someone who averages 12–20 km a day and I still slipped while cautiously walking and gripping onto the rails. The main problems: - Smooth sloped concrete paths with no grip - Algae buildup makes it worse than it looks - Water channels and grooves funnel rotting leaves and garbage right to the centre of the paths where you walk - Piles of rotting leaves just left there to compost - Several areas alternate between ramps and stairs without logic, some slopes are a dangerous angle even if you are wearing hiking shoes like myself. If you're even slightly unsteady on your feet, just take the tram. TRAM Recommended even if you're fit. It does a full loop and stops at all the major exhibits. You can hop off, take a look, and hop back on the next one. Saves time and knees. Trams constantly loop too, so you can just rest and wait for the next. They do thin out around closing time. AQUARIUM Worth the detour. You have to buy a zoo ticket first, but the aquarium is modern, well-kept, and nicely air-conditioned. Kids would enjoy it, and it's a good escape from the heat or humidity. GROUNDS The gardens and general landscaping are gorgeous, a massive credit to their groundskeepers.. It’s just let down by unsafe walking surfaces. ANIMALS Decent variety. But during rain, expect them to be hiding. Not really the zoo’s fault, just something to be aware of. SUMMARY Dry day: do the full walk if you're fit. Still watch your footing. Wet day: take the tram. Seriously. Do not try to do it all on foot unless you like skating involuntarily. It’s a solid zoo with some great highlights, but the path safety is a real problem.

Zoo has a nice layout, but needs a little more upkeep on paths and painting. The 350 entry fee is misleading; you'll end up spending closer to 900/adult if you do everything. A couple recent reviews said they only saw 4 animals. Clearly they don't know how to open their eyes. I skipped a couple areas and still saw 76 species. It is worth checking out if you are here for 2-3 weeks and have ran out of things to do.

Read some other reviews before you go, they were very helpful. Here are some: 1) Tram is a must! or else you'll suffer and wish you took it from the beginning cause there are alot of walking and climbing. Tram has 13 points that he stops at, you can hop off at a point, walk a little around and then hop on again into the next one. Price for tram is 70 THB. There is golf cart (for 4 or 6 persons) as an other option. 2) there are alot of activities and each one need to pay for it, entry fee to the zoo at the beginning is a must and cost 350 THB for adult, then there is the tram or golf cart fee. there are snow area and Dino area which we passed and I think it doesn't worth it except if you have kids and they love that things, and there is the aquarium which we passed too and it costs 450 THB, and finally there is the penguin feedings which was expensive and we passed it too but luckily visiting the penguins room was free and we had a lot of fun time there and highly recommend it. 3) alot of animals are missing! Some other animals are in single numbers only! To name some: Panda, Orangutan, Rhino, crocodiles, Gibbons.

View and environment are great but the area is too large so should rent a buggy car. However, a buggy car can't stop during the ride except specific parking area so you still gotta walk a little bit to see those animals. And sometimes, the area smell is not great. But overall, if you have time, my recommendation is to rent buggy for 2 or 3 hours, which cost 350 per hours when I go, so you can stop and relax and will be able to see all

We came here to see the panda and the red panda. When we first came into the park, it looked very deserted. We decided to not rent a tram or a golf cart because we didn’t realize the park had so many hills. We regretted that immediately. Pretty much this zoo is like a paid area for a good hike. There were hardly any animals out. The ones that were looked pretty sad and I kind of felt bad for actually coming here in the first place. We paid ฿350 for each adult ticket and I didn’t realize the lady handed me the tickets with the cash. I thought it was a receipt so when we tried to enter the park, I didn’t have a ticket and had to look around my money to try to find it. I wish they would give the tickets separately, so we can actually see them.

Very vast and huge area, rather low animal population. NO panda, no aquarium. I recommend using a cart to get around, as it goes up and down A LOT. It is s nice afternoon activity for 350 THB per adult. But don't expect too much.

The entrance fee is quite expensive, and inside you have to pay extra for additional exhibition, such as the aquarium. Many areas are closed, including the panda exhibit (the panda is no longer here). Most animals are kept in small enclosures, and they don’t look very happy. There is a train that drives around the zoo, but it was full, and we couldn’t get on at the intermediate stops. Overall, the visit felt poorly organized and depressing. I would not recommend coming here — spend your time elsewhere in Chiang Mai instead.

Tha Phae Gate is a decent spot to visit if you're exploring Chiang Mai. It’s a popular landmark with historical value, and there’s usually something going on around the area, like street performers or markets. It’s not overly exciting, but nice for a quick walk, some photos, and people-watching. Worth stopping by if you’re nearby, but not something to go out of your way for.

The gate is always full of people during day and night. I preferred to visit it during the night as local vendors come out and make the place more vibrant. This place is definitely a must visit. For ladies they do photoshoot with provided dresses. The guys doing it seemed to know what they are doing, no idea what they charged but if thats your thing then enjoy your photoshoot too!

historical place. there are many pigeons here, very beautiful to take pictures. around there will be people selling bird food and helping us take pictures (for a fee). and some young people ask us to support money for poor children, I don't know if this is legal but you should pay attention

One of the most iconic landmarks in Chiang Mai. It’s perfect place to start exploring the old city, surrounded by charming cafes, local shops and street performers. The atmosphere is lively during the day and even more magical at sunset.

We visited this place which is free to visit and it wasn't crowded on a weekday. There are many pigeons here with street vendors who sell bird food. Many people feed the birds then scare them to take off. They then take photos and videos being surrounded by flying pigeons.

This location is very convenient. It's nearby by the Old City and the Train Station also. There are a cafe shop inside the Old CIty opposite the gate from which you can enjoy the view. Nice place to visit and stay in Chiang Mai.

An important part of Chiang Mai’s heritage. A nice spot with doves that makes it a great place for photos.

Very impressive temple. Definitely worth visiting. word of warning all the white surfaces will really reflect the Sun which can be blinding if you are photosensitive But on the other hand, this also makes for spectacular photos in the middle of the day. This is a temple so remember to wear respectful clothing, you must have a shirt. Your shoulders shouldn't be showing and ideally your knees shouldn't be showing either.

The temple gave such positive vibes. The energy felt surreal. Very beautiful temple. I was mesmerized, such a beautiful and clean place. I have so much respect for this culture and how the community takes care of the temples around.

Peaceful and as the sun was insisting to go down young monks were busy laying carpets, flags etc for evening function it seemed. Little children 8 to 10 years training in a life of spirituality while the world engrossed itself in materialism. The chedi very impressive shone in mellow evening light. Some elderly people walked in the soft grass. Dove White chedis to commemorate the dead lined in a cluster outside the wat.

A really pretty temple to visit outside of Old Town Chiang Mai. Here find a beautiful golden chedi (currently under construction) and a white washed cemetery that is a peaceful space to walk around. The grounds are quiet and serene and very few tourists or crowds here.

This temple has a nice buddha statue in the main hall. It has some stunning architecture too although it may not be the biggest temple around. There is an area where the ashes of some members of royalty are kept.

Beautiful temple. Not too busy. Well maintained inside. 20B entrance fee.

Nice beautiful temple with big golden pagoda and lots of white pagoda

Wat Umong isn’t the typical temple with lots to see and explore, but the vibe here is just amazing. It’s quiet, calm, and not too crowded. Inside, you’ll find a few Buddha statues where you can pray and just take in the peaceful atmosphere. The entrance fee is only 20 THB. There’s also a meditation center nearby if you’re interested in practicing or learning more about meditation. It’s not the kind of place you visit for grand sights, but it’s definitely worth stopping by for the good energy!

We truly loved the magical atmosphere of Wat Umong. What stood out to me in particular is how the temple is surrounded by nature—it’s full of greenery and feels very peaceful and serene. There are lots of pigeons around that people feed, though personally, I’m not a fan of that because I feel like it stops them from finding food naturally. There’s also fish food available, so it’s important not to confuse the two types! The temples themselves are beautiful, and there are small walking paths that lead you through the grounds, where you’ll find quiet spots to pray or just sit in silence. The underground tunnel temple is a unique feature and has a small entrance fee of 20 baht per person. Overall, it’s a beautiful and special place, perfect for a quiet visit in nature.

20 Baht entry at one part. Beautiful area for walking around. Very shady for most spots thanks to the lush tree canopy. Has a nice community vibe to it. There are a few drinks stalls here that also sell lovely iced drinks for 20 baht, I advise keeping the ice after you finish your drink to suck or chew on to help cool you off and hydrate. Remember to dress respectfully as this is a temple. It was such a nice place to walk I will probably go again.

Wat Umong is completely different from any other temple I visited in Chiang Mai, and it was amazing. The main draw is the incredible network of ancient tunnels you can walk through. Exploring the cool, meditative passages with their small Buddha shrines feels like stepping back in time. ​The whole temple is set in a beautiful, rustic forest, which adds to the serene atmosphere. It's less about golden glitter and more about natural, quiet beauty. If you want to see a temple with a truly unique history and atmosphere, you absolutely must visit Wat Umong.

Wat Umong, which is a beautiful working Buddhist temple at the base of Doi Suthep mountain; is serenity personified. The temple is more than 700 years old and is surrounded by beautiful green trees. I got to see the entire temple area in July, during a rainy day. The soft sound of rain, falling gently through the canopy framed by the trees was beautiful to hear, even as I explored the grounds. Our tour guide- Kris, was very knowledgeable about the entire place. He explained each area as well the ancient tunnels that were built for the minks to meditate in. Please note that this is a working monastery and temple. Please ensure that you sit down to take pictures before the deities, and please do not wear shoes within the Wat. Personally, I loved the whole tour within the Wat and even got to see a few very friendly bats within the Wat. Please listen to your tour guide so that you don't disturb the bats. The baby bats are very cute to look at.

We love this place. The tunnels are breathtaking. Also, if you look up, you’ll see some bats sleeping. Be sure to read the statements under the dog pictures. They are wonderful words of wisdom.

What a magical, beautiful and wonderful place. I’ve always loved sacred places of worship. This is one of them! And there are lots of bats in the cave too!

The place to go to get the real Chian Mai vibe. Things are cheap, they have food and smiles and stuff and clothes. Right next to the Ping River with a parking garage. It's just amazing to go and check out.

🤩 True Chiang Mai local vibes. Ethic wears from Chiang Mai and north of Thailand, plenty of northern sausages, souvenir food packets. Chili paste, and many more shops. It’s a haven for local shopping and it’s all affordable. 👍 The ethnic wears were the best. Such unique styles and patterns. I bought a lot 😂

This place is wild. It is huge! I wasn't really sure where it started or ended, but it is awesome. They have tons of stuff. Pantry ingredients, dried fruit and nuts, clothing, souvenirs, fresh fruit and food stalls, jewelry, kitchen equipment, candy, ect. They have some awesome fried pork skin vendors too. Its worth a trip to check out for sure. The area around the market was really lovely as well. Great shops and vendors, and a nice river front area to check out.

This is a classic and very traditional local market. It's the kind of place where you truly find everything. It's a large, multi-story market: the ground floor is focused on food, with lots of fresh fruit, dried goods, spices, and local foods. It's also a great place to buy traditional dried mangoes, usually at a better price than in tourist shops. On the upper floors, the variety continues with clothes, fabrics, and household items. It's a busy, sometimes chaotic place, but great for seeing local life. Almost everything is sold for cash only, so it's good to go prepared.

The market had grown steadily since Covid-19. Back in 2017-20 it was a one level market but now there's food and other stalls available. Mostly clothes, bags and children's toys. Worth a stroll around for a couple of hours. I bought the brown bag here 120 baht in 2017, the black (identical) one in 2025 for 300 baht.

Chiang Mai city's local authentic Thai market, a very large market with many shops selling clothes, food, and many other items that reflect Thai culture.

A traditional market for selling gold, herbal, fruits, fabrics and tradition foods, can take a walk to explore the local culture here

Beautiful place. Great selection of flowers that are very well taken care of. The only downside is that the market by the palace has chickens tied up on the trees. That's so cruel. Animals shouldn't be treated like this.

The flowers are beautiful but some of the places inside are off limit since this is for royal people. The entrance fee is 50 baht for adults.

Bhubing Palace is a royal residence in Chiang Mai, Thailand, known for its beautiful gardens and traditional Thai architecture. It serves as the winter residence for the Thai royal family and is nestled on the slopes of Doi Suthep. The palace is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the stunning grounds, including its famous rose garden, Suan Suwaree.

Winter palace of the Royal Thai Family in Chiang Mai. Fifty baht entrance fee for Adults and ten baht for children between 100-120cm. Under 100cm free. Very nice gardens , unfortunately you are not allowed inside of the buildings for security reasons as the palace is still in use. If you visit Wat Suthep, the palace is only 4km further. If you don't have the proper clothing it can be rented for twenty baht.

The place is so beautiful. Most of the building can see from outside only.If you like rose garden then it's ok to visit.

Well worth the admission price to be surrounded by well maintained gardens and ponds.

First of all, they insisted we be fully covered, even though we were already wearing appropriate clothing - the same outfits that allowed us to enter every temple. Then we also found out we had to buy an entrance ticket, which costs 50 baht per person and only gives access to the rose garden. Once we heard that, we hopped back on our motorbike and said ciao 😄

This Wat with its tunnel, fish feeding and Ashoka pillar grabbed my interest instantly. Each moment there was like I was building a connection with the place. Peace, greenery and quiet worship. One thing I noticed, all the Buddha statues are similar. Peacefully serene and calmly meditative.

Small but very picturesque temple that's worth your time for a visit. No tickets required. Very calm and quiet, you can take your time and explore its grounds. You can get some pretty nice shots during the golden hours.

Wat Chiang Man in Chiang Mai is the city’s oldest temple, founded in 1296 by King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Mai. It houses the marble Buddha, one of the city’s oldest images, and the stone elephants at the base of the main chedi are surprisingly expressive. Smaller shrines feature intricate carvings that reflect Lanna craftsmanship, and the quiet courtyards make it easy to pause and take in the details without feeling rushed. Less crowded than the bigger temples nearby, it’s perfect for a reflective morning visit and a glimpse into Chiang Mai’s rich history.

Very beautiful temple that's absolutely worth a visit while in the city. The grounds of the temple have many manicured shrubs in the shape of little elephants that are absolutely adorable. The ornate, stone elephants are incredible to take in. You'll find yourself stopping and observing the finer details and rich history of everything around the temple. Plan to spend at least 30 minutes walking through it all.

The place is very serene and beautifully maintained. You can walk around the stupa and explore the wat also. The wat had table fans for sitting and relaxing inside. The Buddha and the architecture also reminded me of Laos.

For me i may be biased with my temple reviews because the ones i do review i like. I love the architecture and colors and size of everything. Worth stopping by on your temple quest and adding it to your route. ultimately you want to experience everything! enjoy and make sure you take off your shoes inside a temple.

Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, and stepping inside feels like taking a quiet walk back in time. The grounds are beautifully maintained with peaceful gardens, ornate halls, and the iconic Elephant Chedi, where life-sized stone elephants appear to be carrying the base of the stupa. The viharns (assembly halls) are stunning with intricate Lanna-style woodwork, golden details, and ancient Buddha images, including the famous Crystal Buddha and Marble Buddha, each with their own fascinating history. It’s a serene place, far less crowded than some other temples, which makes it perfect for slow exploration and quiet reflection. Located in the heart of the old city, it’s easy to reach and only requires a modest dress code (shoulders and knees covered). There’s no entrance fee, but donations are welcome to help maintain this cultural treasure. Wat Chiang Man is a gem for history lovers and anyone wanting to see the roots of Chiang Mai’s spiritual heritage.

We visited this temple which was near our hotel. There is an old stupa at the back of the shrine hall. It is lit up at night and looks nice. The shrine hall was peaceful and quiet.

Beautiful temple, went there early morning, filled up with the fresh air in Chiang Mai, and peaceful blow my mind and soul in the moment. One off the top temple must visit.

We were getting our engagement photos shot here and our kind photographer had suggested this temple. Turns out it quickly became fav spot for my partner and I. We loved the old charm of this super old temple. It’s impressive to see how it’s been maintained since years. The pouring water bit - a ritual that locals often do to the Buddha was one our fav bits.

Wooden architecture. Graceful wood carvings. Use of white on black on the exterior of wooden temple is like the fine jewellery art and sequine studded zari textiles that are so elegant on Thai women and Men. Grand wooden edifice. Very old chedi. Quite impressive in height. Later some contemporary art is visible in small temples to the left of entrance. The first of goddess is a big draw among ladies. Sculpture of seated king elegant. In the open like ancient Daius the creator of Veda and Sumerians is the old Man god with flowing beard. Its a very contemporary work. Google translate talks of Chinese deity of well being and prosperity. I am not sure of what material the long bearded god image is made of. Warm steam was flowing from these temples. Local cultural ethos and beliefs are deeply engrained in these temple visits by our local brothers and sisters who bring offerings of Chinese lamps with name and prayers to Budcha, candles and small and pretty Jasmine garland and elegant white and blue lorus for Buddha. Coming from the land of Buddha it was very touching for me to find his teachings in Thailand so meticulously being practiced albeit with culturally evolving rituals. In Thailand, Metta( Compassion Paali word) in Monastery is the anchor that is practiced for all living Beings: birds animals fishes and humans with equanimity. Secondly in a modern city with blasting sounds of vehicles though intrude the Buddhist concept of silence,peace, equanimity and integration and balance of all existent. Still these Monasteries are heavenly sanctuaries of meditative peace and can cure modern humans of the disease of a digital, electronic, mechanical, instant gratification if you just stay under a tree in these Monasteries meditating and letting cool breeze touch you, fragrant trees, flowers invade your olfactory and birds sing musically to offer your ears the joy of Nature How much we pine for that Buddha peace!!

It's a very beautiful temple, located just north of the city moat. What stands out most is the giant, ancient brick stupa (chedi). The main wooden hall is also very beautiful and full of details. It's a peaceful place and great for admiring the architecture. Entry is free.

A very beautiful Temple filled with Architecture from Lan Na period. We offered water to the Buddah at higher level using the pulley with mythical creature. Lots of beautiful colorful latern. This temple doesn't need to pay for tickets to enter.

Stunning temple to visit at night time - was open and had people around even at around 8pm! Very centrally located, close to the north side of the old city square. Would recommend visiting temples during day and night time to appreciate the intricacies of the design in each!

Very serene and tranquil temple worth visiting , hearsay this temple are popular with those people born in the year of snake to pray for luck . There's a vendor to release birds for merits too .

Unlike the other famous temples crowded with tourists, this one is a favorite among locals. It’s home to impressive historical statues and beautiful pagodas.

I missed this amazing little temple complex a bit to the northwest of the old city the last time I visited this wonderful city! Tucked away but easy to find. There were about a half dozen other visitors when I went. It always amazes me how peaceful these places are despite near by traffic. Go visit, especially if you were born in the year of the Snake!

We wanted to pay our respects to Lord Buddha and the land ancestors since we will be here in Chang Mai for a week while my wife does her training for Pilates. It is a beautiful temple. It is currently under construction but you can still visit.

A place of pilgrimage since 1455. Gorgeous. Being restored back to former glory but there is still plenty to see

Very nice old temple with king of snakes. Many statues of snakes in the front of yards. I love the place and they have museum in the garden.

The temple of history in Chiangmai.And this temple is good for especially the person who born in Snakes years(Temple of snakes year born people ). People believe that The temple good to pray for luck and smooth in working and life.

A cool art gallery and shop. The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable. Within the shop there’s also an exhibition of a local artists work (the artist himself was there as well) which regularly changes. There’s a great range of artistic styles on display, so whatever you’re into I’m sure you’ll find something here that you like!

The Meeting Room Art Gallery, locates on Prasingh area (right opposite the Phra Singh Post Office) and next to Postcard Hotel Chiangmai, owns by K. Joe, offers a genuine support for young artists to showcase their artworks in Chiangmai for the past ten years. K. Joe kept his mission and vision strong, by giving the opportunity for young and emerging artists from Chiangmai. The new space (before, the gallery was in Si Phum area) is clean and warmhearted ambient. K. Joe is always lovely, knowledgeable on contemporary art and always keep going extra miles to gives opportunity and platforms for youngster's talent and creativity. There's exhibitions rotating around every month or two, please check out the gallery's facebook page to keep yourself updated. Highly recommended.

Art gallery with a nice artwork and a humble owner, Jo. Great place for exhibition too.👍👍

Amazing, delicious and unexpected quality of food. Best in Changmai so far and the staff are very polite.

House interesting collections from local artists! Only problem was that they would only share artist information after you purchase the art piece(s)

Formerly the Cannonball Gallery in the very old wooden house on River Road, the new, renamed Meeting Room Art Gallery is simply stunning. Jo and his team of artists have kept the same open, creative and supportive environment for emerging artists and students, but in a bright, new modern space. Regular special exhibitions and openings offer a good variety of new work as well as more established sculptures and paintings. Now located in the Old City, it’s just a short stroll from Wat Prah Singh and is definitely worth a visit. Tip: Grab a coffee from next door and relax at the front table before or after your visit. A great couple of hours in Chiang Mai.

Delightful gallery space with knowledgeable curator and owner, Mr. Jo, who supports and encourages young Chiang Mai artists as well as established, world renown masters. Over the years, Mr. Jo has worked with many artists to hone their creative instincts in developing an outstanding business for collectors everywhere. Mr. Jo specializes in contemporary art, but always leaves room for traditional painters which will suit a variety of buyers and pocketbooks. As Mr. Jo says, "Be a friend; bring a friend!" -- a must see while visiting Chiang Mai!

This vibrant market offers two distinct experiences depending on the time of day. In the evening, the market transforms into a welcoming hub for delicious Northern Thai street food. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local delicacies in a relaxed atmosphere with ample seating. The morning reveals a bustling fresh market, teeming with activity. Vendors offer a wide array of goods, from fresh meats and vegetables to ready-to-eat meals. The morning market is a lively scene, primarily frequented by locals, though it's becoming increasingly popular with tourists as well. With many English signs and friendly vendors, ordering is easy and enjoyable for everyone.

Where have I been all these times!!!! I stayed at nearly hotel and ask hotel staff where Chiang Mai people go for breakfast. She recommended this market. This is where the local eats. So you should too. So many variety of local and central Thai dishes. The amount of dessert available for breakfast is a bit alarming, in a good way. Come and enjoy, can't go wrong

You can find basically anything for your kitchen need here. In the morning, fresh market with veggies, fruits, meats, housewares, and soo many food stalls upfront. So many choices of ready to eat food, from sweet snacks to prepped meals, fried food, rice, and many more... Quite busy in the morning.

The market is always wonderful. We enjoyed shopping, a massage, some sausages, and lots of rain. It was worth braving the bad weather. Bathrooms are 5baht.

You definitely want to visit Chiang Day Market if you're into fresh fruits and vegetables, and exploring Thailand fresh yummies. You might want to use Google Translator for Thai language translation as most vendors speak Thai.

Relaxed, undercover market, selling prepared meals, sweets and household items. Prices on some items were a bit higher than other street stalls around Chiang Mai (eg. Thai sweets).

It’s incredibly packed and TONS of stalls selling souvenirs, small knickknacks, and food! Souvenir pricing is marked up compared to other street pricing and other markets (eg chinatown) so would only come here for the experience or if you know what you’re looking for and how much you’re looking to get it for 😌

A temple situated outside of Chiang Mai city is a sacred site nestled within a forest, attracting devotees for prayer. To reach the temple, visitors must ascend over 300 stairs or opt for the elevator by purchasing a 20 THB ticket. The entry fee for foreign visitors is 50 THB. From Chiang Mai, transportation options include Bolt, Grab bike, or cab. Alternatively, a shared ride can be availed from the songthaew stand near Chang Phuak Market for 80 THB.

I walked from the monks trail to the top in monsoon season with light rain. The temple is amazing, definitely worth a visit. There are shops here and you can easily catch a grab from the temple entrance (3 min wait for me) . 30 baht entry for farang, I thought I might need to put on rental elephant pants but after checking at the ticketing booth it seems men are fine to wear shorts.

Doi Suthep Temple is located on a mountain near Chiang Mai city, a very beautiful and peaceful place.

Making the trip up to Doi Suthep is an experience in itself, but the reward at the top is pure magic. As I ascended, the noise and heat of the city faded away, replaced by a profound sense of tranquility and cool mountain air. The peaceful atmosphere, especially around the temple grounds, was a perfect reset for the soul. ​But the real showstopper is the night view. Watching Chiang Mai transform into a sparkling blanket of lights below is absolutely unforgettable. It’s one of the most stunning and serene cityscapes I have ever seen. This is a must-do for anyone seeking peace, beauty, and a truly breathtaking perspective of Chiang Mai.

Doi Suthep is one of the must-visit spots in Chiang Mai. The temple sits on a mountain with stunning views of the city below. The golden pagoda is beautiful and the atmosphere feels peaceful, though it can be crowded during peak hours. A great place to experience local culture and enjoy the scenery.

Offers a great view over Chiang Mai. Grab driver offers to stay and wait for 1-2h and drove us back for same price.

Doi Suthep is a sacred place and an important tourist attraction in Chiang Mai Province. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Ratchaworawihan is its symbol. Enjoy the panoramic view of Chiang Mai from above and experience the abundant nature.

The Chiang Mai National Museum was a place that made me reflect deeply. Despite being part of the same Buddhist cultural sphere, the ways of expression are different, yet the pure hearts following the Buddha's teachings and the endless process of practice remain the same. It was a valuable time seeing the artists' efforts to spread the Buddha's teachings to all beings through Buddha images that hold symbolic meanings of their times. However, I was saddened and wished for improvement regarding the staff assigned to each floor and hall for management and supervision. They were mostly seated and engrossed in their iPhones, showing indifference to the tourists who come to understand this country and place.

Disappointing. Run down building, no logic or story to any of the exhibits, no narrative of any kind. No overview. Lanna? Explain what the Kingdom was. Before, during, after. Show context. Explain achievements. What remains. Explain Buddhism in that context. Go through time periods. It was just completely random, jumping centuries and time periods. The English was horrendous and made me feel I was having a stroke. There was no clear path for walking, no order. And the bathroom was disgusting. There are a few interesting things, like the Giant Head of Buddha and the Prehistoric Man, and some beautiful relics. The outside of the building and the area are very nice. Staff was okay. Conai going to the Insect Museum if in the area.

The Chiang Mai National Museum has some interesting exhibits, though I found the overall experience to be average. It's a decent place to spend an hour or so, but nothing particularly stood out. The displays were informative, however, if you are not already knowledgeable of the context it can be confusing for a visitor. 200 Baht for foreigners.

The Chiang Mai National Museum takes two to three hours to make it through the exhibits. It takes a more narrow approach in covering Northern Thai art and the influences of Buddhism over the last 700 hundred years. Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai have a unique history apart from the rest of Thailand and was once controlled by Burma. the English translations provide adequate context and the Museum has a logical flow from the front to the back and from floor 1 to floor two. Thai citizens pay $20 baht and foreigners pay $100. Bags are not allowed but they provide free lockers to protect your belongings. It is also air conditioned. There are plenty of places to stop and sit down along the way and bathrooms are located beneath the stairway.

The Chiang Mai National Museum has lots of artifacts and artist exhibits as well as ancient jewelry and pottery related to native Lanna culture. I noticed that lots of items are donated (or may be loaned collections) from various museums such as National Museum Bangkok. It is worthwhile visiting Chiang Mai National Museum. Only unpleasant experience I had was the reception staff member who issue tickets. She was unfriendly (which is something unusual in Thailand) and didn’t have any idea of how to be a pleasant customer service representative.

It's a only 20 mins tour for this two floor musem, not really a "national" museum. Most buddhism stuff with not much logic and route, not worth the 200THB ticket. Staff speaks poor English and is misleading.

The Chiang Mai National Museum was more than I expected. It has a great collection of pieces that beautifully showcase the history and culture of the Lanna Kingdom. A worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts!

50 bht to get in. 100 bht to hire a sarong to cover knees. The ladies providing these are some of the rudest people I have ever come across in Thailand. They threw the sarong at me when I hired, when I took it back I put it down on the table to look for my return card, they started yelling at me in Thai and making furious hand motions trying to tell me to fold it up. I was completely dumb struck that this woman was having such a strong reaction but also, when I initially hired there was a massive pile just dumped on the desk so I’m not sure why I was being yelled at. I handed over the card, got my money back and got out of there as quickly as possible. Such a bad look for the northern thais who I have found to be the most welcoming friendliest people in Thailand as a whole besides this cranky young woman. Not to mention this attitude inside of a temple which is considered to be such a sacred place is really off putting! I wish I could rate the temples and service seperate however it was not a relaxing or spiritual experience being treated this way upon both arrival and departure of the temple. The rest of the temple experience was absolutely spectacular. I went at night so there were far less people and the whole place was lit up beautifully. There’s a lot to explore and doesn’t feel like you’re in the middle of the hustling bustling Chiang Mai. Definitely recommend. Maybe just take your own sarongs!

Absolutely breathtaking, especially at night! Wat Chedi Luang Varaviharn is one of the most beautiful temples I’ve ever visited. The golden details on the main viharn (chapel) shimmer under the evening lights, creating a magical and peaceful atmosphere. The craftsmanship of the carvings and decorations is simply stunning — every inch feels like a work of art. At night, the contrast between the softly lit golden temple and the ancient brick chedi behind it makes the whole complex feel timeless. You can quietly walk around, take in the history, and feel a deep sense of calm. Inside, the golden Buddha statues and ornate columns glow beautifully — it’s a serene and spiritual experience. If you’re in Chiang Mai, I highly recommend visiting after sunset. It’s quieter, cooler, and the temple looks absolutely mesmerizing under the night sky. A perfect spot for reflection, photography, and appreciating the beauty of Thai architecture and culture. 🌕✨

This is one of the most impressive and historically significant temple complexes in the city. The absolute highlight is the central chedi (stupa), a colossal structure that, even partially in ruins after an earthquake centuries ago, demonstrates the grandeur of the ancient Lanna kingdom. It's incredible to think that this structure once housed the famous Emerald Buddha. The complex is large and features other very beautiful and well-preserved halls, as well as housing the city pillar (Sao Inthakhin). It is a must-visit. For foreign tourists, entry to the complex costs 50 baht per person. Payment must be made in cash.

This is really spotlight in Chiang Mai Old City. Giant architecture with primitive material, making it an ancient look. There are also several small temples around in this area which are worth visiting. The entrance ticket price is THB 50 for foreigners. In the morning you can wait outside to see monks collecting alms. The white wall background with giant trees will make spectacular pictures.

Located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City, this is a truly magnificent temple steeped in history. ⛩️ Since I visited on a Sunday, the temple grounds were filled with young novice monks, creating a warm and peaceful atmosphere. The main hall and the entire complex are spacious, with a towering central chedi that dominates the site. Although parts of the elephant carvings were damaged—likely due to an earthquake long ago—the temple still conveys a deep sense of history and reverence. Within the grounds, there is also a beautiful golden reclining Buddha.✨ Gazing upon its serene expression brings a sense of calm and tranquility. In the evening, the temple becomes even more atmospheric, with the sound of monks chanting echoing through the grounds. The entrance fee is 50 Baht per person. If you’re visiting Chiang Mai, this temple is a must-see for those who wish to experience history, culture, and spiritual serenity all in one place.

Lots of temples and really cool to see the historic one where it’s showing its age! Part of the temple is still intact with the elephants and other parts are crumbling. One temple is male only, but everything else is open for everyone! 50 THB admission fee and a 100 THB deposit if you need to borrow covering.

Very beautiful inside the pillar with intricate artwork and informative displays. They maintained it well and it has integrity, respects it's traditions and not commercialized. However to enter the city pillar you must take off your shoes and the rule says that only men are allowed in.

What a fun experience. If you've ever done any night market you'll know what to expect here. Vendors, food, and music. It definitely was more tourist than locals, but the vibe was still high energy. The street food was delicious. I didn't do much shopping as I went solely for the immersion. There are a lot of people moving all over the place so if you have children, keep them close. As adults we got separated. A good time was definitely had.

Markets for days. One of the best in Thailand. Friendly vendors. Realistic prices, not pushy at all. Great experience. Food options were also delicious. Plenty of different stall instead of the same thing over and over. Give it a go. You won’t be disappointed.

I bought a high quality crocodile wallet that would be at least $150 anywhere else. At the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar I got it for 950TB - $29. Crazy… Also bought two zipperless pieces of luggage (carry-on and medium) for $42. My wife got Thai pants for all her friends in Florida for 100 TB - $3 US. Great deals nice people good value. Recommend

Big market, not cheap (compared to another markets) but negociable prices. Spread over several streets and covered areas (in case of a rainy day), it is very crowded and the stalls are repetitive. There is an area of food stalls (cheap and tasty) and a seating center with benches with background music from a singer or recordings - music that is pleasant to the ear. Public toilet, disabled friendly fot 5 baht. There are nice "cabaret shows" free entrance but must order drinks not expensive, nice attraction for a few hours on the go.

Huge range of products from food to clothing to furniture. You name it, it's here. Prices are surprisingly low for a tourist area. There are some great deals to be had, some Vendors will barter.

We went to a few of the different night markets in Chiang Mai and I think this one was the best one. There are many offshoot of the market in different buildings and streets. There was a huge variety from different types of food to different things to buy. There’s also a bar which has live music and you can hear it from the street in the area so if you get some food from the food parts of the Knight market, you can eat it while listening to some nice music. It was child friendly.

It’s a nice market but super western influence - plays English music and a lot of the stalls are very “classic” foods and items are pretty marked up! Would suggest dropping by just to get into the world of night markets that Chiang Mai offers but don’t buy too much (or at all) :)

One of my favorite temples in Chiang Mai. The highlight is the unique ancient tunnel with a Buddha inside, which gives the place a truly special and spiritual feeling. The temple grounds are surrounded by nature, making it peaceful and relaxing to walk around. Before entering the tunnel, make sure your shoulders are covered and you’re wearing pants. If not, the temple provides fabric to cover up. A very memorable and meaningful place to visit!

Beautiful temple in the forest outside of Chiang Mai. With tunnels, bats, thousands of chickens, frogs, doves, fish , dogs , cats whatever you can imagine. Beautiful scenery, very green and shady all over. Come here wit Grab for 70 Baht. It's also a nice walk around on a hot sunny day. Can get busy during the day but is very calm in the late afternoon. I really liked it here. A must see for nature lovers.

Only visited the outside due to lack of time, but it’s an expansive space with a library, other buildings and the main temple. Entrance is 20 THB! It looks more unique and different than the other temples in the old city square - would recommend! There’s also wild chickens flocking around 🐓

Unique, peaceful temple in the woods with a small lake. Tunnels with shrines (taking shoes off first). There is a 20 baht fee for entrance. Nearby there are some nice cafes for a cool break.

It's ancient / forest / temple / Buddhism together in a big area. There are many things to see here, including the ancient Chedi and Tunnels, a library and small Museum. You should visit this place once in Chiang Mai trip. Not too far from Old City.

Based on its architecture and history, I believe this temple is even more ancient than Doi Suthep Temple. The underground tunnels, built to resemble caves, create a quiet and serene atmosphere — perfect for meditation or just escaping the city. Inside, you’ll find Lanna-style mural paintings over 500 years old, the oldest surviving of their kind. The Lanna-style stupa, influenced by Pagan and Sri Lankan (Sukhothai) art, adds to the temple’s historic charm. The important note for all visitors: please avoid touching the inner walls of the tunnels. These ancient mural paintings are very fragile, and if we are not careful, they could disappear soon. It’s the perfect visit if you’re searching for a temple that’s less crowded and more traditional — a place full of history, spirituality, and peace. Ps. Admission free 20 thb as donation

Very interesting temple, love it! Inside is a bit hard to breathe because of the lack of air and there live a lot of bats, they are funny. And a lot of roosters there also

**5-Star Review of Wat Phantao (วัดพันเตา), Chiang Mai** Nestled within Chiang Mai’s historic Old City, **Wat Phantao** is a hidden gem that charms visitors with its **stunning teakwood architecture** and peaceful ambiance. This small but exquisite temple stands in the shadow of the grand Wat Chedi Luang but holds its own with a unique character and fewer crowds. The highlight is the **golden teakwood *viharn* (prayer hall)**, a masterpiece of Lanna craftsmanship. Inside, you’ll find a serene golden Buddha image and intricate wooden carvings that glow in the soft light filtering through the windows. The temple’s **tranquil garden setting**, with lush plants and a quiet courtyard, makes it perfect for meditation or a moment of calm. Unlike larger temples, Wat Phantao retains an **authentic, unhurried vibe**. You’ll often see monks quietly going about their daily routines or locals stopping by to pray. The absence of entrance fees and tourist crowds adds to its understated beauty. For lovers of **traditional Lanna architecture and quiet spirituality**, this temple is a 5-star must-see. Its intimate scale and timeless elegance offer a refreshing contrast to Chiang Mai’s busier landmarks. **Tip:** Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light on the teakwood carvings. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ *Bonus: Located right next to Wat Chedi Luang—pair them for a perfect temple-hopping combo!*

Very cool temple in top of the mountains outside of Chiang Mai. Sunset over the city was stunning! Takes about 45 minutes to drive there. We had a guide who showed us around and explains the history. We got blessed by a monk with holy water and hot done good fortune told to us by a grand of sticks. The surroundings are stunning

Tuesday 7th October 2025: Really nice Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai just around the corner from Watchediluang Varaviharn. Plenty to see as the temple has more to the side and the rear

A hidden gem of old Chiang Mai 🌿🛕 Wat Phan Tao stuns with its all-teak temple hall and tranquil vibes — a peaceful stop just beside the famous Wat Chedi Luang.

Visited this place because joined walking tour, this one not big, but in the outside, you can ringing the bells. It had statue with meaning for each day as your born day. No need to pay.

What an amazing ole wooden temple to see. I had a great time here and I definitely think this temple is a top 10 temple inside old city in Chiang Mai. Fantastic interior and wonderful Bordeaux colours on both entrance walls and the secondary buildings. There’s also a big golden pagoda surrounded by smaller ones. Really a place you have to see when coming to Chiang Mai

Beautiful temple with good vibes even small but great 👍

Very beautiful old wooden temple and just next to it a big old chedi. The temple is very well kept and beautiful both inside and outside. Definitely worth a visit even though it won’t make it to a top 10 placement of temples in Chiang Mai. Good place to spend 10-15 minutes

Beautiful temple that has its own unique charm 🥰. Love coming here during Loy Krathong festival, they hang up beautiful colorful lanterns all over and it’s so so eye catching and pretty!! 🏮❤️ Will always stop by here without fail. Sometimes the young monks will even release a few lanterns 😆.

This is a small temple near the center of the city. Said to have been the place where King Mangrai was killed by a lightning strike, the stupa now houses his treasures. It's well worth a short visit to this small temple.

Wat Sadeu Muang, which translates to “Temple of the City Navel,” is not only a peaceful sanctuary but also a place of deep historical and cultural significance in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The name references its central position in the ancient city, symbolizing the “navel” or “heart” of Chiang Mai. Historically, this temple dates back to the time when Chiang Mai was founded as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom in 1296.

Wat Sadeu Muang, or "Temple of the City Navel," is a significant historical site located near Chiang Mai's city center. It is believed to mark the symbolic center of the Old City. The temple features striking architecture and ornate details, including its central stupa that captures attention upon entering. Visitors can feel the spiritual significance of this location, deeply rooted in Chiang Mai's heritage. Tip: Look out for the sacred pillars, as they represent the city's spiritual foundation.

The temple is located in the walled city and just a short walk from the three kings monument. It is easy to access by foot. This is free to enter, you are expected to dress modestly and respectfully, and remove their shoes before entering the viharn.

Located right in the Chiang Mai “walled square”, it’s an unique black and gold temple🛕. It was not crowded and not many tourists go here, there are Buddhist monks you can have a chat with or you can just pass by and enjoy the beautiful details.

A decent and beautiful temple to pay a visit to. Not that big a temple but behind it is a huge white pagoda. A few dogs here but they are used to people so a safe place to go with kids. You will find more astonishing temples in the neighbourhood but I think you still should go see this as you pass it along your way to the bigger temples. I had a good 10 minutes there as a typical tourist

The temples here don't look gorgeous enough...but the wind chimes in the temples sound great

Unusual for the striking purple elephant statues at the entrance to the Assembly Hall. I love the painted murals inside the Hall depicting scenes from Buddha's life and teachings, but I always wish these were at eye level. I think the practicalities of design with shutters along the sides prevent this. There are two Stupas to the left side of the Assembly Hall.

We passed this temple and decided to go in on a whim and we're so glad we did! This is one of those smaller, unassuming temples that has a quiet serenity to it. There were no tourists inside, so we were able to wander around at a leisurely pace and really feel the peacefulness. Note: Visited prior to COVID, so things may be slightly different.

Temple is small but beautiful. I took thai massage ( 150 baht/ 1hour) and tok sen ( 250 baht/ 1 hour) here. Thai massage was awesome. Unfortunately, tok sen wasn't good for me. It's depend on masseurs/ massueses who give you good massage or not.

Stunning temple. It's free. Massage there was good and cheap (150baht per hour) but not very clean - they do not change the towel/bedding after each massage!

Cute temple between the night market and the Tha Pae gate. Nice to visit. Free to enter. There are some tourists here but it's not too busy

Well, this place has some work to do for it be a considered a worthwhile stop by most people. Exhibits are in poor repair. But it did appear they are putting some really effort to bring this place back to ita former glory, which would then make it a definite stop. No cost to enter

3 minutes walk from highland museum. Also free entry. 10 hilltribe house styles set in a pathed grassed area. Houses were largely empty, so more of an architectural idea of hilltribe home styles. Note - slippery ramps in the wet season, step carefully. Bathrooms on site. Parking by gate, and disabled parking inside gate. Closes 4.30.

This place is not very well-maintained and probably doesn’t worth your time.🥲 Most of the house models are not open and you cannot go inside. It’s free tho.

Good ideal place to understand Tribal living style and housing. But seriously and urgently to maintain and repair exhibiting houses.

"Longneck" village displaying tradtional dress and crafts.

It's so sad that no one takes care and develops it. It could be such an amazing place.

Recommended. It's a great visit to learn more about Thai people and their history.

A temple that’s stands out from many others cause of the big round formed chedi and the tall temple next to the main one. Nice and shady temple grounds but not that well kept and to be honest all the surrounding trees makes it quite difficult to take some good picture at the temples here. I still enjoyed 15 minutes here walking around looking at everything. Also you won’t find many tourist here as it’s a bit outside the city centre

It feels odd to give three stars to a place of worship, but Wat Ku Tao stood out among local temples for a couple of reasons: it's definitely less touristy and off the beaten path, which is nice -- but it also feels really run-down and disused, like there'd been a frat party the night before and everyone left for spring break without cleaning up. We were kind of delighted at first to see novice monks (boys of about 8 years of age) receiving tutoring in an open pavilion when we first arrived, and the main Stupa is indeed fairly different than you will see elsewhere... But as you explore, you can't help but think the whole place is kind of gross and in need of a good cleaning. I was surprised and disappointed, but my wife reminds me it's not my place to judge, and I am sure she's correct.

The temple was built in 1613 to enshrine the remains of Nawrahta Minsaw, the first Burmese ruler of Lan Na. Walking distance from the guest house that I stayed in Ban kong rao

The unique features of this temple include some gorgeous wall sculptures in the yard and an especially large golden Buddha statue in the main wat. Off the beaten track, this is a quiet place with not a lot going on. The chedi has the look of a stack of pumpkins, hence the name.

Wat Kuu Tao is one of the less visited temples in the city by foreign tourists yet is absolutely worth the visit. The pagoda with its unique shape looks like 5 watermelons on top of each other. The architecture, interior designs and buddhas images are much influenced by burmese style. Stolling under the big trees makes a visit worth while and there is a lot to take pictures from.

Wat Ku Tao, Amphoe Muang. Famous for its unusual look, the temple was formerly named ”Wat Veru Vanaram”, but it has long been called ”Wat Ku Tao” by the locals owing to the odd shape of its pagoda like a pile of watermelons. Nothing is known of its founder or its founding date, there is only a legend saying its Chedi contains the ashes of Prince Saravadee, the son of King Bayinnaung of Burma, who ruled Chiang Mai from 1579-1607.

Relatively small and quiet temple. Nothing is unique or outstanding as far as I see.

Small but beautiful set up. I love the tiny cafe just next to the centre...cut and good 😊

If you’re interested in Lanna/Northern Thailand architecture, this is the place to visit! There are exhibits on the structure downstairs (it’s a combo of Colonial and Lanna), and currently, there’s an excellent exhibit on Young Asian Architects as well. Run by the Architecture Dept. at the University of Chiang Mai, I had a great chat with a third year architecture student as well. The students working there are happy to answer questions if you ask! Definitely worth 30-60 minutes for a visit.

A well-preserved 100+ years old house under the management of the Faculty of Architecture Chiang Mai University. The ground floor was for free and the second floor had ticketing (120฿ per person). The staff explained the history of the house briefly along with a video, then led us around the house to see different parts of it. Interesting and delicate house models were displayed around as well. A small coffee shop was at the corner of the outdoor garden but it isn’t part of the old house. Visiting time: 30 minutes

Very little to see for 120 baht for a ticket! Feels like a rubbery really... And is not even a guided tour.

Small but lovely exhibition center, with some delicate models of signature Lanna architecture.Have to taken off shoes inside, total enduring time would be about 1 hour including the gift shop. There is a nice cafe beside, large glass widows surrounded. Just chill after the architecture class with cozy environment with the garden.

I was really hyped to visit this place but it turned out to be an utter disappointment. When I got there I asked if I could visit but was told they were closed for a group visit and had to wait around two hours, so I went to visit other places while I waited. Around lunchtime, I came back, but there was a sign at the door stating they were closed for a lunch break, even though they don't have information anywhere online (or at the site) that they close for lunchtime. I waited at the coffee shop in the gardens of the house for the lunch break to be over and when that finally happened they immediately put up another sign stating they would be closed until 15.30 for group visits (they close for the day at 16.00). By this time I was really fed up and decided to come back another day. Went online to see if anyone else was disappointed with the visit, and noticed that the visit to the second floor of the house (the only part actually worth visiting) would cost me 120 bhat which I found absurd since I visited the local museum (which is great by the way and paid only 90 bhat for a visit that can last you at least 2 hours, for permanent and temporary exhibitions). Therefore, I decided to only visit the outside of the house and the first floor. Not really worth the price for a picture on the veranda of the second floor, since the house is mostly empty.

Beautiful building and garden in the Center of the old City. Interesting for culture lovers. Beautiful cafe in the garden serves excellent local Coffee.

100 baht entry. Really beautiful place to visit. You can enter the houses, be careful and walk along the nail patterns on the floor so you have extra support (especially if you're a heavy westerner like myself). Really photogenic visit, if you like historical architecture definitely come here and visit. Polite and charming staff, I lost my sunglasses here and the gardener figured out they were mine and came and gave them to me, it's little gestures like that that really makes a big impression.

his is such a lovely place to visit if you have a few hours free in Chiang Mai. It’s not far from the old town, so it’s very convenient to get to, and once you’re inside you’re surrounded by so much greenery and open space. The setting feels peaceful and refreshing, making it a great spot to slow down and explore. What really makes this place special is how well it showcases history, culture, and traditional house design. Walking through the different houses feels like stepping back in time, and we were really impressed by the level of detail. Each house has clear information provided, helping you understand the background and circumstances of the families and traditions they represent. It adds a lot of meaning to the visit and makes the experience much richer. Another highlight is the creative activity they offer—drawing! It’s such a fun and thoughtful addition, and I think it’s a great idea not just for children but also for adults who want to connect with the place in a more interactive way. Overall, this spot is both educational and enjoyable. It’s the kind of place where you can learn, relax, and be inspired all at once. Definitely worth a visit if you want to experience a different side of Chiang Mai beyond temples and markets.

I visited the Lanna Traditional House Museum (CMULHM) last week, and it was a delightful experience. The entrance fee was just 100 THB, which felt like a steal for the unique and enriching glimpse into Lanna culture that awaited inside. One of the highlights of my visit was that I had the place entirely to myself—I was the only visitor that day! This made it so easy to explore at my own pace without navigating through crowds. It felt like a private tour, which added a special, personal touch to the experience. The museum itself is a treasure trove of history. The Lanna houses are beautifully preserved, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship of the region. What really stood out to me was the intricate woodwork—the detailed carvings and designs on the wooden structures were absolutely stunning. You can tell that a lot of care has gone into maintaining these homes, and it’s easy to get lost admiring the artistry. The atmosphere was serene and peaceful, which made it even easier to soak in the rich history and cultural significance of the Lanna people. As someone who enjoys traditional architecture, I found myself captivated by the stories each house seemed to tell through its design and details. It truly felt like stepping back in time. For just 100 THB, this museum offers an educational and tranquil experience that’s well worth the price. If you’re ever in the area, I highly recommend stopping by the Lanna Traditional House Museum—it’s a hidden gem that brings the heritage of the Lanna people to life in a memorable way!

I visited in the morning when it had just opened for the day. Grounds were completely empty and I had the entire space to myself. Here find a series of different styles of old wooden Lanna houses as well as granaries and such. You can enter most of the houses and see the architecture from the inside, as well as any decor. The grounds are beautiful and peaceful, the site easy to navigate. This is a remarkable outdoor museum and I am so happy that these unique dwellings are being preserved for all to see. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the city.

Really great museum. Even with a big hangover I enjoyed it! The houses are stunning with lots of the history written in English. Lots of big butterflies and look out for the big tree at the end. Massive! Takes anywhere from 30 mins to an hour to get round.

Such a comprehensive collection of beautiful traditional houses. The information was useful and the houses were well preserved. I would advise wearing shoes that are easy to slip on and off.

They lifted a bunch of old lanna houses to this place and you can walk up and into most of them. The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful to walk around and see how old wooden houses were made and the history behind them. There are several iterations and sizes so a good variety between them. If you are bored of temples and crowds give this place a visit you won’t regret it.

Nice temple on a neatly kept temple ground. Beautiful wooden buildings in this area and also a big white chedi. Might not be the most impressive temple here in Chiang Mai but still worth paying a visit to

Mid sized temple that doesn’t seem as active as many others around.

Nice little temple with a quiet atmosphere. The temple is away from all the chaos and noise of the main streets.

Small temple middle of the town. Duang Dee means Good Luck. Visitors come here for great fortune. Most of things packed at the front including place for merit making, souvenirs shop, food store, parking lots and toilet. There is an ancient church building at the back where you can take pictures from outside.

I went to pray to this temple. The atmosphere was tranquil and there were only a few people coming in to pray as well. It was very nice and beautiful.

A small temple with name translated into "good fortune," thereforeany ppl come to worship and hope for good fortune.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time spent here. Beautiful and enjoyable. Peaceful. Family friendly.

I went there on Sunday for parking because I wanted to go to the walking street. I asked them to pay with coins and they denied and rudely push money back to me and told me to pay by scanning QR code. I asked them for the reason why can’t I pay with cash and they just said no.Bad experienced overall. :(

Wat Umong was built around 1296-1297 and is believed to relate to Wat Umong (Buddha Dhamma) at the foot of Doi Suthep Mountain, where Phra Maha Thera Chan, a Buddhist monk famous for his profound understanding of Dharma, resided. It is possible that this Wat Umong was the temple where Phra Maha Thera Chan was ordained and resided for a period of time before moving to Wat Umong (Buddha Dhamma). This temple is sometimes called Wat Umons Thera Chan. The assembly hall at Wat Umons is a rectangular Lanna-style building, adorned with apex finials, Naga bargeboards, and pediments. The stairway at the front of the hall is flanked by two stucco lions. The principal stupa is a Lanna-style bell-shaped stupa, located to the west of the assembly hall. The subsidiary stupa is located to the south of the assembly hall. It is believed to be a mondo stupa, influenced by the Bagan-style mondop and Lanna bell-shaped stupa. It probably had a roof to shelter worshipers from rain and sun, similar to Bagan-style buildings.

This place is very old, built around 1297,it has an air of peace and tranquilty about it, good place to bring a book to read at the shaded tables in the grounds. Buddhist philosophy is presented on plaques tied to trees. It is actually a meditation training center also.

This temple was built about the same time as Wat Chiang man (the first Buddhist temple in Chiangmai). This temple also built by Three Kings who founded the city of Chiangmai. Two very old stupas are still exist in the temple. Nowadays this temple is opened for people who interested in Vipassana practice with accommodations for both Thais and foreigners.

First of all make shure that you go to Wat Umong Mahathera Chan and not to Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham which is outsinde of the Old town in the forest. The exterior of the temple is not very spectacular. I visited the temple to see the murals in the viharn. They are colorful depictions of the Vessantara Jātaka. This is one of the most beloved narratives of the Buddha's past lives. In this last life before his birth as Siddhartha Gautama, he was a prince named Vessantara. From his earliest youth he gave away everything to the needy. When he also gave away a white elephant to the neighboring kingdom, the people became rebellious, as it was believed that the white elephant would ensure the kingdom's supply of rain. He was therefore banished from the kingdom. But he could not stop giving everything away. He gave away his chariot, his children and his wife. A vicious role is played by old Bhramane Jujaka. He had a pretty young wife who desperately wanted domestic servants. The old Bhramane and his pretty wife can be easily identified in the pictures. Since Vessantara also gave away his children, angels (Devas) had to take care of the little ones. But everything turns out well. The family is reunited and, riding on elephants, they move back into Vessantara's kingdom. This can also be seen clearly in one of the pictures (two elephants with magnificent seats and soldiers in green uniforms). There are also several pictures of the evil Jujaka. In one of them he is sitting on a tree and is threatened by a hunter and dogs. In a second picture, he visits his guru, who shows him the way with an outstretched hand. There are also pictures of stories from Buddha's life: Buddha subduing Mara with the earth mother Phra Mae Thoranee doing the trick with her long hair. The famous serial killer Angulimala is also depicted kneeling before Buddha. And, of course, the taming of the wild elephant can be seen. The elephant was sent by Devadatta to trample Buddha, but is tamed by Buddha’s energy.

Favorite peaceful place in Chiang Mai. I came here every morning to sit under a tree and contemplate the Buddha. They also have organized meditation and chanting, but I didn’t participate in these. Lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of Chiang Mai.

Wat Umong Maha Therachan is named after a famous monk Mahathera Chand (1365 – 1445) who lived in Chiang Mai and often stayed at the temple. The temple plaque also tells us that the word Umong, which means “tunnel”, refers to an underground tunnel which once linked the chedi to the viharn of which little remains. It’s a 700 year old temple in the middle of the old town with an ancient chedi and modern huts where you can meditate.

A very Beautiful Catholic Church with stunning Architecture...

A beautiful church with lovely garden and fountain-The English service was at 11.00 am on the Sunday with English missals,a choir with drums and keyboard with the lyrics projected on to two large screens by the altar Friendly congregation and warm welcome from a very small Catholic community in Thailand which is of course largely Buddhist and Muslim.

A beautiful church with a very welcoming congregation. Sometimes the homily seem to drift into political speech. All in all--a great place to to meet and worship God.

Attended the 11am English mass on Sunday. Choir was amazing with their angelic voices. The church wasn't packed and was only 40% filled.

A lovely little cathedral in the heart of Chiang Mai. Went to Christmas mass here and the laity and priests were very friendly. There's ample confessionals and a statue of both Mary and a blessed Thai martyr that are worth seeing too. A nice sense of fellowship here.

It was an interesting experience for me to see and participate in a mass in English (and in a foreign country). It had a great musical frame, and it was easy to follow thanks to the books with "subtitles" for everything that was said ;) The architecture/surroundings was not much different from what I know from Europe, so I wouldn't go there just for the views (even though it's nice).

Mass was given in English on Sundays. And the choir's voice was so holic. If you are in Chiangmai and a Catholic, you should visit there. Even if you are not a Catholic, this place is worthy of visiting.

Beautiful location and terra cotta but it is not a museum but a hotel and cafe. However, there is a park opposite it with a nice door and carvings on the posts and frame.

This used to be my favorite spot for breakfast. I went there expecting the same beautiful and cozy garden atmosphere with fountains, flowers, and Terra cotta art scattered throughout. I showed up, and they had moved across the street. When I showed up, they told us that they had a limited menu due to moving and might have it up and running in about a month. The new location is at a hotel, and doesn't appear to have the same artsy feel about the premises. The only reason I give a 2nd star is because I know what the old location once was, and hope that they are able to come close to the same relaxing garden scene they had before. Next time I am in Thailand, I will be sure to check it out again and update my review.

This place is incredible, a restaurant and coffee lounge with stunning gardens laid out with incredible classy sculptures.

Such a chill place tucked away from the busy city center. You'd think you were miles away, but it's actually very close to everything. The atmosphere is enchanting and the coffee is great. Come relax and enjoy an afternoon!

The most beautiful and peaceful place we spent time in Chiang Mai. Definitely check it out!

Nice garden for a coffee/juice break. A bit expensive but the place is unique.

Amazing garden with ancient terracotta decoration. Very beautiful cafe.

Check out "Grand walking tours" on youtube instagram and tictok Another stunning temple in Chiang mai. Very quiet early in the morning .

This temple doesn’t seem to receive many visitors. Unusually, it has no sign indicating its name in English. However, it’s easy to find, situated opposite Pantip Plaza not far from the Night Market, but perhaps it doesn’t look so interesting from the outside. In fact there’s a lot to see.

I CANNOT believe how few people visit Wat Si Don Chai - a splendid temple complex. Wat Si Don Chai was built about 130 years ago, and during this past month (May 2019) it has been completely repainted. It is a joy to explore and offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. There is a very large main hall, a number of interesting smaller buildings, Statues, accommodation blocks and a vast area for parking - when there is not a special event happening. Wat Si Don Chai often has a variety of ceremonies going on, some of which take up the vast open areas. There is a large stupa at the rear of the main hall, in an area which appears to be a small cemetery with a number of interesting tombs. The main hall is sometimes closed, as it was when I last visited. Wat Si Don Chai is opposite the Pantip Plaza in the night bazaar area of Changklan Road - so very easy to find. Do go, you won't be disappointed. Highly recommended.

A bit in the shade of the famous Wat Nantharam in Chiang Kham is a temple which is almost across the street - Wat Don Chai. It is a beautiful Lanna-style temple with open doors, inviting people to come in. The interior contains several larger Buddha images which are lined up on the altar and a smaller image high up on the back wall above the large white Buddha image, securely placed in a glass container. Several modern but excellent Buddhist paintings are located towards the entrance of the building.

Nice temple next to Pantip Plaza. When I was there there was a little scaffolding at the back and there was some sort of lunch/party going on at the front with tables and chairs under a canopy so I could get a good view of the temple.

Nice, clean, well maintained, and fairly large temple.

This is a dazzling wat (temple) both in daytime and nighttime. During the day, great to meditate in the main building, but I also recommend meditation in the smaller ubosot just to the side. Be sure to see the featured Buddha statues at night. It is next to a large night market, so come visit. Beautiful! #travelthailand