THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Chiang Mai - 2024 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor
Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand - Chiang Mai Attractions

Things to Do in Chiang Mai


Book these experiences for a close-up look at Chiang Mai.

From quick jaunts to full-day outings.

Top Attractions in Chiang Mai

These rankings are informed by traveler reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Tranquil temple set in a forested hillside, with moss-covered chedi and peaceful hiking trails by a creek and waterfalls. Enjoy serene views and a meditative atmosphere.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Jungle-like sanctuary with a focus on ethical elephant care, featuring natural interactions such as feeding, walking, and bathing. Enjoy serene bamboo rafting and scenic treks.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Religious Sites
World’s First Silver Sanctuary World’s First Silver Sanctuary, located at Wat Sri Suphan (Sri Suphan Temple), Chaingmai, Thailand. The Abbot of Sri Suphan Temple, Phrakru Phitak Suttikun (Suphon Suthasilo), Temple Committees, Devotees, and group of Lanna craftsman had been constructed the silver sanctuary by using the former base, former boundary stones and former principle Buddha image (Phra Jao Jed Tue, built in B.E. 2043.). The Silver Sanctuary was built and decorated by Silver Handicraftsmen (Lanna folk wisdom) of Wua Lai Community that has been descended from their ancestors. The sanctuary is decorated with the pure silver on the most crucial and safety parts. Aluminum was used for the decoration of the rest of the sanctuary areas, instead of using pure silver for the whole building. Inside the sanctuary, each carved wall consists of the stories of Lord Buddha, Buddhist Doctrine, History of Phra Jao Liab Lok and Phra Jao Prod Lok (Thai Buddha’s preaching stories), Buddha’s footprint, and the happiness life in believe of Buddhism. On the other hand, the outside of the sanctuary’s walls are symbols of National Institute, Religion, and Royal Family, 4 Lotuses indicating 4 types of human recognition, Personification, King of Naga, ASEAN countries, World’s famous cities, the King’s literary work; Mahajanaka Jataka, Srithandon, and 12 Zodiac Signs. These stories are shown for the stronger believes in Buddhism. The Silver sanctuary has been established since B.E. 2547 for the first time by group of Lanna craftsman using the local wisdom (Silver Crafts) for the decoration; taken for more than 12 years to be completed, with the donation from all believers as total amount of 35,152,314 Thai Baht (Thirty Five Million One Hundred and Fifty Two Thousand Three Hundred and Fourteen). Finally, the construction of World’s First Silver Sanctuary has been completed and ready for all religious services. It is also be the conservation of Wua Lai Community’s wisdom (Silver Handicraft) as a learning center, as religious teaching method, Life’s navigation for all visitors. The most importantly, we have been completed the determination for this sanctuary to become a National Memorial for Thai people and to praise our His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (9th monarch of the Chakri Dynasty). Wat Sri Suphan would like to invite all believers and visitors to our opening ceremony of World’s First Silver Sanctuary and the celebration of 720th Year Anniversary of Nophaburi Sri Nakhonping during 28 March – 3 April 2016.
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travelers are saying

  • macedonboy
    Glasgow, UK179,790 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This temple has been around since the 15th century and once housed the famed Emerald Buddha, which is now in Bangkok. The old brick chedi is still in the temple complex and continues to be used as a place of worship. The main temple is now a more modern building in front of the car entrance. This has a stunning read and gold hall with a high altar that has a statue of a standing Buddha, flanked by two monks.
    Written April 17, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • wonderfulworld1993
    London, UK40 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I was sure that I had already written a review for here but it seems not! We visited in December 2021 which only feels like a few months ago. We think and talk of this place so often, the memories will be etched in our minds forever. These majestic creatures are so beautiful and intelligent and need to be protected.

    If you choose this place - please see my photos. I have a picture of some medicine for one of the elephants (Boon Ma). They struggle to get the medicine in Thailand as it is sold in Costco. I took two packets and they were so incredibly grateful. If you are able to, please consider purchasing before your holiday to take with you.

    Prior to our visit, we conducted thorough research to ensure we supported an ethical elephant rescue sanctuary. We vehemently oppose the mistreatment of animals, whether in circuses, as riding animals, or in exploitative petting zoos. We scrutinised various options before settling on this retreat.

    Before our visit, I delved into their rescue claims, aware of the unfortunate prevalence of pseudo-sanctuaries. I reached out via email seeking clarification on their rescue efforts. While the response was stern, it conveyed a passionate commitment from Mr. Kid's team, emphasising his life's dedication to rescuing these magnificent creatures. I found the response somewhat brusque but passionate; if anything I thought it would be good that potential customers were doing their due diligence given the crooks out there. Anyway after reading the many reviews we booked.

    Our day with Mr. Kid and his exceptional team was nothing short of magical. The adventure commenced with a visit to the elephant poo park, an intriguing experience. Seeing the creative use of elephant dung was both educational and amusing; we even picked up some elephant-shaped Christmas baubles!

    Next, we gathered for a captivating lecture by Mr Kid on the park's history and the stories of the resident elephants. The passion Mr Kid has made it engaging and emotional.

    Decked out in traditional mahout overalls and wellies, we were ready to embark on our journey.Our first task was to craft medicine balls and gather sugar cane, essential for the elephants' well-being. Each step of the process was imbued with meaning as we learned about the elephants' individual histories and personalities, fostering a deep connection with these majestic creatures.

    Feeding time was a joyous occasion, we were filled with awe as we interacted with the elephants up close. They are just amazing to watch - it was really an emotional experience for us as animal lovers. After feeding time, we went for a walk alongside them which allowed us to further appreciate their grace and intelligence.

    The day ended with us bathing and scrubbing the elephants, which was wonderful experience. The tactile sensation of caring for these gentle giants left a mark on us.

    Overall an absolutely magical day which I would highly recommend to anyone. Thank you Mr Kid and your team for rescuing and caring for these wonderful creatures.
    Written April 15, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • James I
    New York City, NY575 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    One of the larger temple areas in the city, it gets rather crowded here. However, the quiet nature of temples and the garden area on the grounds here help preserve the peace. The most striking feature here for me was the smaller building towards the back that was completely coated in gold. Very easily found and within walking distance of most places in the inner part of Chiang Mai.
    Written March 1, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Blair T
    Lantzville, Canada131 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fantastic street food and tons of souvenirs. The market covers several blocks. Many of the shops offer similar items so it's easy to haggle for best pricing when you compare items from shop to shop. We went here three nights in a row for dinner and browsing the shops.
    Written April 11, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • nuichristine
    Cirebon, Indonesia9 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The visit to this temple was a good pick for us
    The history behind it.. the tunnel to get into the temple..
    its beautiful the atmosphere sorround so serene.. worth a visit
    Written February 1, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Paraag D
    5 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Amazing experience.
    Woody, the guide, was excellent and had brilliant english.

    Really well organised experience covering a number of activites with the elephants.

    Good clean showers and sitting areas.
    Written April 11, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • ErkiBear
    London, UK395 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful forest temple which was very tranquil and relaxed. Lots of smaller temple buildings to explore and views of Chiang Mai from the river. Worth a stop on the way to the much busier Doi Suthep.
    Written April 15, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • freetolive
    Singapore, Singapore138 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had the pleasure of being guided around Chiang Mai today by an exceptional driver and tour guide-Andy(Tong)

    His professionalism and knowledge made the experience truly memorable.

    From navigating the city with ease to providing insightful information about the landmarks, he exceeded expectations.

    Highly recommend his services for a fantastic exploration of Chiang Mai!
    I put his contact here just in case anyone wants to contact him Highly recommended.
    Whatsapp-:+66840414704
    Written January 17, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Roalt D
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A very BIG experience with Tomato and Papaya, the elephants. Eddy explained how he is keeping them, no tricks, no chains. They walk free and do what they want.
    Written April 12, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • NickGi
    Germany31 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Thailand has so many great temples, this one is very unique and probably one of the most beautiful ones. It is a little hidden in Chiang Mai , so ask your way around or get a taxi it tuk-tuk . This is a fantastic artist piece of work with so much to discover in such a small temple.
    Written March 18, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Darleyowl
    Matlock, UK28 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Bit of a twisting road to get there but great views from top of the mountain when you do. Had welcome talk about sanctuary & elephants & donned our poncho-esk gowns (no need for wellies in dry season, trainers did get a bit dusty so don’t wear your designer white ones!!). They give you a bag with your lunch in & can put a few essentials in for day, the rest stays in your locker till you get back at end. Made food balls for elephants then fed them breakfast - even got to put it straight in their mouth as well as mostly feeding from end of trunk. Walked behind them to another feeding spot & our lunch stop, here they had water from us too (bit reluctant at first but then downed a jug in one). After lunch we followed them to the river, which was a bit shallow & not all elephants in mood for a scrub/attention but keepers just followed elephants lead & they didn’t appear to be forced into anything. After a bathe it was back to base to feed them their food balls we made earlier & say goodbye. Nice day, plodding along at elephants pace (which can be quite slow if going uphill or if there’s food around).
    Written April 7, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Yann Renaud
    Switzerland811 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A nice temple, currently under reconstruction. The place is nice and, as many temples in this region, really impressive.
    Written January 25, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in one of these AI-generated descriptions is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
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