Planning to spend 36 hours in Chiang Mai? This northern Thai city blends ancient temples, lush mountains, vibrant night markets, and some of Thailand’s best food all in one unforgettable destination. This guide covers the best things to do in Chiang Mai, how to get around, what to eat, and the top attractions you shouldn’t miss.

 

1.Where is Chiang Mai?

A captivating city nestled in the scenic mountains of Northern Thailand, about 700 kilometers (426 mi) north of the capital city, Bangkok. It is situated among mountains and is the largest city in the northern part of the country, sitting astride the Ping River. It serves as the religious, economic, cultural, educational, and transportation centre for both northern Thailand and part of neighbouring Myanmar (Burma). Once the capital of an independent kingdom, the city also has strong cultural ties with Laos.

As the travel hub for northern Thailand, the city of Chiang Mai and the province that shares its name (population 1.6 million) blend ancient culture and natural wonders to create a character that’s unique to a region once known as the Kingdom of a Million Rice Fields, or “Lanna” in Thai.

2.How to get to Chiang Mai?

By Air

The easiest and fastest way to visit Chiang Mai  is by plane. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) welcomes flights from major cities across Asia, including Bangkok, Vietnam, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Seoul, and Doha. If you’re traveling from Europe or the Americas, you’ll likely need to connect via Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK).

It’s about 3 km south-west of the city centre and has the facilities of taxis, buses and local transport available from the airport to the city. It’s crazy easy to get a tuk-tuk from the airport to the center for about $4.80 / 150 THB, just be aware you can’t fit many bags inside. Otherwise, taxis are everywhere, and Grab cars are easy enough to book. However, it’s better to book a private transfer so there’s no hassle and someone’s waiting for you when you arrive.

Flight Booking Tips:

• Book in advance to secure the best rates.
• Choose a morning or evening flight to avoid crowds.
• Look for promotions from low-cost airlines

By Road

By Bus

From Bangkok, there are daily buses running from Northern Bus Terminal and take about 9-12 hours to reach Chiang Mai. Several reputable companies operate this route, including:

• Green Bus Thailand (Luxury VIP buses available)
• Nakhonchai Air (Comfortable overnight buses)

Traveling by bus will be cheaper, convenient overnight options save on hotel costs.

By Rail

Trains depart regularly from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Chiang Mai Railway Station.The journey takes about 12 -15 hours, making it ideal for those who enjoy slow travel.

Why Choose the Train?

• Smooth and comfortable ride
• First and second-class sleepers are very pleasant
• A great way to enjoy Thailand’s countryside
• Overnight trains help you save time and money

This option is especially popular among backpackers and travellers seeking an authentic Thai travel experience.

3.What to do in Chiang Mai in 3 days

Planning a trip to northern Thailand? This 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary covers the city’s must-see temples, ethical elephant experiences, stunning mountain views, and unforgettable nature adventures. Chiang Mai offers the perfect balance of culture, food, and outdoor activities – making it one of Thailand’s most loved destinations.

Ploen Ruedee Night Market and Dance Shows

If you want to experience Chiang Mai’s vibrant nightlife and international food scene, Ploen Ruedee Night Market is the perfect place to start your trip. It’s more than just a place to eat – it’s where cultures meet, music plays, and every meal tells a story. This lively open-air market combines global street food stalls, creative cocktails, and live performances, all in one colorful, energetic space. The atmosphere is amazing so you should visit it from 7 p.m when the market gets busy and the performances start. The music here isn’t just background noise, it’s the heartbeat of Ploen Ruedee. You’ll often catch people clapping, dancing, or simply swaying to the rhythm, pad thai in hand.

Why you should visit this night market in Chiang Mai:

• Cultural fusion through food & music
• Free live music every night
• Authentic Chiang Mai street food with global flavors
• Aesthetic decor with colorful umbrellas and twinkling lights
• Family-friendly, couple-perfect, and solo-traveler safe
• A great alternative to crowded night bazaars
• Seating is spacious, clean, and well-maintained

 

Temples in the City (Old Town)

Chiang Mai’s Old City is home to over 300 temples, each with its own charm and history. Tourists can easily spend a morning temple hopping through the most iconic ones, all within walking distance.

This place is home of many temples, offering a glimpse into CHiang Mai’s historic Lanna Kingdom such as: 

• Wat Chedi Luang – Known for its massive partially-ruined stupa dating back to the 14th century.
• Wat Phra Singh – Famous for its beautifully restored Lanna-style architecture.
• Wat Chiang Man – The oldest temple in the city, with unique elephant-shaped pillars.

However, tourists should wear modest clothing (shoulders & knees covered) or bring a scarf to wrap when entering temples.

Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

One of the most memorable things to do in Chiang Mai is visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary. It’s a must-destination to explore, it’s not a riding camp, not a show, but a rescue center where elephants live safely and naturally.

Visiting here, tourists will have a chance to experience many interesting activities: 

• Feeding rescued elephants
• Walking alongside them through the jungle
• Learning about their rescue stories
• Bathing them (optional at some sanctuaries)

Doi Suthep Temple & Hmong Hill Tribe Village (Doi Pui)

Perched high above the city, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai’s most sacred temple and an essential stop. Visiting this temple, you will climb the 306-step naga staircase (or take the cable car), admire the golden chedi and enjoy panoramic views over Chiang Mai.

After exploring the temple, just a short drive from the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, tourists can get to Hmong hill-tribe village. It is a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Hmong people. The villagers, dressed in their colorful traditional attire, welcome guests with warm smiles and a wealth of handmade crafts. From intricate textiles to exquisite silver jewelry, these authentic products make for unique souvenirs, capturing the essence of your Chiang Mai sightseeing adventure.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Known as the “Roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon is the country’s tallest mountain and one of the most breathtaking day trips from Chiang Mai.This national park combines cool mountain weather, lush cloud forests, and some of the most photogenic spots in Northern Thailand.

Top Attractions in Doi Inthanon

• King & Queen Pagodas: Iconic twin chedis surrounded by beautiful gardens and panoramic mountain views.
• Wachirathan Waterfall: A powerful, multi-tiered waterfall perfect for photography.
• Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: Famous for its sunrise views, sea of clouds, and scenic boardwalks.
• Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail: An easy, peaceful mossy forest trail filled with rare plants and cool mountain air.

If you’re looking for a full-day outdoor adventure filled with natural beauty, Doi Inthanon is a must-visit.

Bike Trip and Bamboo Rafting

Spend an afternoon exploring the countryside around Chiang Mai on a guided bike tour. Cycle through rice fields, small villages, local markets, and scenic farmland. It’s a peaceful and refreshing ride down gentle rivers. Tourists can sit on a long bamboo raft while a guide steers you along calm water. It’s relaxing, scenic, and gives you a chance to see authentic rural life.

 

Trekking in the Jungle

Chiang Mai is one of the best trekking destinations in Thailand, offering lush forests, waterfalls, and hill tribe communities. It’s the ideal adventure if you love nature and want a deeper, more authentic experience.For a short itinerary, a half-day or full-day trek is perfect, you can hike through dến jungles, visit local villages, swim in waterfalls,…

 

Grand Canyon in Chiang Mai

The Grand Canyon of Chiang Mai, is a hidden gem just outside of the city. It’s a beautiful, off the beaten track, chilled out place to spend a few hours escaping the city heat. 

Things to do at the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon

• Swim in the cool turquoise water
• Kayak or paddleboard
• Relax in a tube
• Cliff jump (for the brave!)
• Zipline across the canyon
• Sunbathe and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere

It’s a great place to escape the city heat and spend a few hours soaking up nature.

 

Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls

Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls, located in the jungles of Chiang Mai Province, is one of the most unique natural attractions in Thailand. Unlike normal waterfalls that are slippery, these falls are formed from mineral-rich limestone, giving the rocks a grippy, sticky texture.

Why You’ll Love the Sticky Waterfalls

• You can walk up the waterfall without slipping
• It’s safe, fun, and perfect for all ages
• The surrounding jungle is peaceful and beautiful
• Great for half-day trips from Chiang Mai
• Climbing the falls is a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else in Thailand.

4. What to eat in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is a food lover’s paradise, offering bold flavors, aromatic spices, and traditional dishes you won’t find anywhere else in Thailand. From iconic noodle bowls to crispy snacks and herbal sausages, here are the top foods you must try in Chiang Mai.

Khao Soi

Visiting Chiang Mai, one of the best foods that tourists should try is Khao Soi. It’s the signature dish of Northern Thailand. Khao Soi is creamy, aromatic, and mildly spicy with a balance of coconut richness and curry warmth. The combination of soft noodles in broth plus crispy noodles on top gives it a satisfying contrast. Pickled mustard greens add tanginess, while chili oil enhances the depth. It’s comforting, flavorful, and full of layers.

Pad Thai

One of the best Thailand food – a familiar dish that every traveler loves, prepared with local Chiang Mai flavors is Pad Thai. This dish is beloved for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory. Tamarind provides tanginess, palm sugar adds a natural sweetness, and fish sauce brings umami depth. The noodles are soft yet slightly chewy, with crunchy bean sprouts and peanuts adding texture. Chiang Mai versions tend to be slightly sweeter and more aromatic. It’s worth eating in Chiang Mai.

Fried Quail Eggs

Fried Quail eggs is a simple but delicious street food travelers can find in every night market. This dish is popular with its mix of fresh quail eggs, pepper, soy sauce or fish sauce, and scallions. It is rich, creamy, and bite-sized, with a slightly firmer yolk than chicken eggs. They’re salty, savory, and often served on miniature trays at street food stalls. At the first bite, it melts in your mouth and is perfect as a quick snack.

Som Tam or Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)

It’s one of Thailand’s most iconic salads. It’s crunchy, refreshing, spicy, sour, salty, and a little sweet. The shredded papaya absorbs the tangy lime and fish sauce dressing, while peanuts add crunch. Depending on where you buy it, it can be mildly spicy or fiery hot.

Kaeb Moo (Crispy Pork Rinds)

A must-have Northern snack that’s great for sharing or eating on the go. Kaeb Moo is crispy, airy, and incredibly addictive. It’s salty with a natural pork flavor that’s not greasy at all when done well. Locals eat it as a snack or dip it into Nam Prik Noom (a roasted green chili dip), which adds a smoky, spicy kick. Don’t miss this dish when traveling CHiang Mai.

Sai Oua (Grilled Spicy Herb Sausage)

One of Chiang Mai’s most famous street foods and a flavor bomb you don’t want to miss. Its flavor is amazing, famous for its bold, herbal flavor. The lemongrass and kaffir lime make it bright and fragrant, while chili paste adds spice. It’s juicy and slightly firm with a smoky char from the grill. Every bite bursts with aromatic Northern Thai herbs.

 

FAQs About Chiang Mai

1.Is 3 days enough for Chiang Mai?

Yes! Three days is the ideal amount of time to explore Chiang Mai’s temples, nature, markets, and elephant sanctuaries without rushing.

2. What is the best month to visit Chiang Mai?

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is November to February, when the weather is cool and dry so you can do a lot of interesting activities.

3. How do I get around Chiang Mai?

To get around Chiang Mai, the easiest ways are Grab, red songthaews, tuk-tuks, and renting a scooter for short trips.

4. Is Chiang Mai safe for tourists?

Yes, Chiang Mai is very safe. But you should be careful and notice about travel precautions.

 

Chiang Mai is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and food, offering everything from mountaintop temples and jungle trails to waterfall climbs, peaceful countryside adventures and delicious food. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a traveler looking to escape the beaten path, Chiang Mai promises unforgettable experiences.