Things to Do in Chiang Mai

When it comes to stunning mountains, rich history, Chiang Mai shopping and cultural depth, no other destinations in Thailand can match the northern city of Chiang Mai. With its cooler temperatures when compared to the south, its stunning local arts and handicrafts, and a fantastic old city that has a unique vibe and atmosphere, Chiang Mai is one of the most desirable places to visit in Thailand and home to eclectic choices of events and happenings that take the fun to the next level. This is the guide to things to do in Chiang Mai.

 

Known for its marvellous art exhibitions, music festivals and events scene that centres around the city’s culture, nightlife and dining spots, Chiang Mai is the most incredible city in Thailand to visit or live, especially with so much to see and do.

 

Things to Do in Chiang Mai?

 

Finding fun here is a very simple exercise. The city is small and compact, offering a broad range of fun things to do in Chiang Mai. The most memorable evenings out revolve around riverside bars and restaurants, creating a fun and friendly atmosphere with many live music events at classic blues, jazz and rock venues.

 

The Nimmanheimin Road area offers a fun-packed experience with many live music bars and excellent restaurants for the young and trendy crowd. For those who think the backpacker atmosphere in Thailand died many moons ago, you can think again! A wide range of backpacker-style bars with affordable drink prices is the perfect way to meet people and learn more about this majestic city.

 

What is Chiang Mai all about?

 

When people talk about Chiang Mai, the first thing that comes to mind is the city is an epicentre for art and culture in Thailand, second only to Bangkok and maybe even overtaking the metropolis. With ancient temples that go back over 800 years, stunning mountain ranges such as Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep, lots of golf courses and a fantastic old city that has a great choice of bars and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder that so many people like the things to do in Chiang Mai City.

 

Chiang Mai Events & Festivals

 

There is always something happening in Chiang Mai. From the multitude of art exhibitions to the most famous events, such as the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival and the Chiang Mai Flower Festival, alongside other events, such as music and food festivals, make sure you catch an event when you visit the city. This city merges traditional festivals with ongoing weekly events that centre around the city’s bar and dining scene.

 

Chiang Mai’s nightlife and entertainment set it apart from many of Thailand’s other main tourist thoroughfares, such as Phuket, Bangkok, Samui and Pattaya. The nightlife scene is home to many small beer bars with an excellent and hippy-like atmosphere that attracts all manner of tourists and is a favourite destination for backpackers and artsy types.

 

Art & Culture in the Northern City

 

The Northern City is home to many art galleries, cultural hotspots and age-old Buddhist temples. With over 800 years of Lanna culture, the city is awash with museums and cultural points of interest, such as the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center and establishments that offer antiques, pottery, paintings and a myriad of local handicrafts. There are always lots of art exhibitions and likes happening in the city, which makes it a great place to live or visit.

 

Chiang Mai Shopping Suggestions

 

The city has an assortment of world-class shopping malls. Still, the most unique Chiang Mai shopping options are reserved for local markets and art centres that offer unique handicrafts, paintings, pottery, wooden sculptures and much more.

 

The Night Bazaar is a street in the city’s centre closed at night and home to a vast choice of markets sealing all types of local cuisines and some bar areas. Every weekend, the night bazaar is the ultimate place for affordable shopping.

 

Chiang Mai Sports & Activities

 

Further, it is an excellent place for sports and activities. Whether its playing golf on one of the region’s best courses with beautiful mountain settings such as the Alpine Golf Resort, lots of mountain biking and trekking activities, visiting the hill tribe villages in their jungle habitat or extreme sports such as bungy jumping, paintball, shooting and is an excellent destination for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits.