Discover Chiang Mai's rich cultural heritage by joining Culture Trip's epic 10-day Northern Thailand tour – led by our local insider.

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Reasons Why You Should Visit Chiang Mai Over Bangkok

Check out our easy guide on how to make the most of 48 hours in Chiang Mai. Explore sacred temples, vibrant markets, local eateries and more.

Thailand

Chiang Mai

How to Spend 48 Hours in Chiang Mai

Hidden away in the forests of Chiang Mai, Wat Umong is an undeniably serene and peaceful place to visit.

Discover Wat Umong, Chiang Mai's Hidden Temple

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The Best Museums to Visit in Chiang Mai

Check out our list of the best tours to take in Chiang Mai, Thailand to discover food, culture and nature.

The Best Tours to Take in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Featured Articles

Chiang Mai, founded in 1926 on the banks of the Ping river in northern Thailand’s mountainous region, has a rich cultural history, breath-taking surrounds and a laid-back lifestyle that have made it an irresistible stop on the backpacker circuit.

The Insider Guide to Chiang Mai

Reconnect with nature, with history and with yourself in Chiang Mai. The so-called New City’s mystical energy has drawn visitors for generations – and for good reason. Tour the temples in and around the city walls to get introspective. There are many to choose from, but don’t miss the black jade Buddha at Wat Chedi Luang, the elegant assembly hall at Wat Phra Singh, the elephant sculptures at Wat Chiang Man and the five-tiered chedi (a pogoda-like structure) at the Burmese-style Wat Chedi Liam. 

The city’s power to reawaken the spirit spreads beyond its walls and moat. Escape on an excursion through the historic Tha Phae Gate to see more Buddhist architecture at the Doi Suthep, a temple set in a granite mountain, with incredible views back towards Chiang Mai. And yes, everyone does it – because it’s incredible: you can’t leave Chiang Mai without feeling the magic of Mother Nature up close by helping out with feeding time at the Elephant Nature Park. 

Back in Chiang Mai proper, immerse yourself in Thai life by wandering the Talat Warorot, a market that’s been operating for more than a century. Alongside the souvenirs, you’ll find typical Thai household goods and plenty of surprises – this market is one of the largest in the country. 

After all that exploring and reflection, stop off for a traditional Thai massage, with options quite literally around every corner – or you could take things a step further and book yourself in for a meditation session with a Buddhist monk. 

As night falls, you’ll be ready to discover the emerging roof bar scene, with several new builds topped with decks for cocktails at dusk. Now Chiang Mai has worked its magic on you, you’ll want to bring your new-found Zen home with you. Head to the night bazaar to pick up trinkets and souvenirs to remind you of your trip.


The Main Attractions

Oran

Setif

Algeria

Luanda

Angola

Cotonou

Porto-novo

Benin

Botswana

Ouagadougou

Burkina Faso

Burundi

Tonga

Yaounde

Bamenda

Cameroon

Cape Verde

Central African Republic

Chad

Comoros

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Congo

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Cote Divoire

Florentin

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Cairo

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Asmara

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Morocco

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Events and Activities in Chiang Mai, Thailand | Culture Trip

Outdoor Activities

Escape the city - the best outdoor places to visit

See & Do

The Top Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

See & Do

The Best Day Trips From Chiang Mai

See & Do

The Best Cycling Tours in Chiang Mai, Thailand

See & Do

Why the (Other) Grand Canyon in Chiang Mai is Definitely Worth Visiting

Guides & Tips

10 Alternative Things To Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

See & Do

Wat Chiang Man: Why Chiang Mai's Oldest Temple is Worth Visiting

Shopping

Design

The Best Home and Design Stores in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Fashion

Where to Buy Thai Silk in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Guides & Tips

The Best Independent Stores in Nimmanhaemin, Chiang Mai

Fashion

The Best Vintage Clothing Stores in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Art

The Best Arts and Crafts Stores in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Guides & Tips

10 Uniquely Thai Souvenirs and Where to Buy Them in Chiang Mai

Wellness

See & Do

Best Kept Secrets of Chiang Mai, Thailand

Guides & Tips

The 10 Best Spas in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Health & Wellness

A Fitness Lover's Guide to Chiang Mai

Health & Wellness

The 10 Best Yoga Studios in Chiang Mai

Iconic Buildings

Learn about historic sites and special architecture

Architecture

Holy Temples You Can Visit in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Architecture

A Tour of Chiang Mai’s Architectural Landmarks