What to Do in Chiang Mai: Top 10 Simple Joy
Last updated March 28, 2024
Tha Phae Gate is one the most famous attractions in Chiang Mai.
Unfortunately, Chiang Mai has been facing the PM 2.5 air pollution crisis in recent months. Please make sure to check the air quality prior to your trip. You can check updated air quality via this link.
Located in the northern part of Thailand, Chiang Mai is one of the most well-known travel destinations in Thailand among both Thais and foreigners. The province is known for its mountain scenery and Lanna culture. Many people love Chiangmai because of its culture, history, slow pace of life and delicious northern cuisine.
As a Thai living in Bangkok, traveling to Chiang Mai offered a sense of peace. I escaped the bustling city for this city full of old charm. Chiang Mai boasts many attractions, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Tha Phae Gate, and the Old City, surrounded by a moat and ancient walls, making it the heart and soul of Chiang Mai.
While most people prioritize these key attractions on their itineraries, this wasn't my focus for this trip. Since it wasn't my first visit, I wanted to relax and experience simple joy that the city has to offer. So, if you'd like to explore Chiang Mai beyond the typical tourist path, here are my Top 10 Joyful Things to Do in Chiang Mai.
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Shop and Eat at One Nimman
Cafe hopping in Chiang Mai
Indulge in great food & drink at beautiful Woo Cafe-Art Gallery-Lifestyle Shop
Eat original Khao Soi
Eat famous Mooh Donut
Pray to Buddha and enjoy panoramic views at Wat Phra That Doi Kham
Take photo at I Love Flower Farm
Appreciate the Lanna Colonial architecture at The Inside House
Have dinner at Chang Phuak Gate Night Market - Food Stalls
Shop for food and souvenir at Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
1. Shop and Eat at One Nimman
Who wouldn't love shopping and eating? ONE NIMMAN combines the best of both worlds, featuring a variety of restaurants and local brands, making it a one-stop shop for satisfying your cravings and indulging in retail therapy!
Located on Nimmanhaemin Road, or Nimman for short, this trendy neighborhood is the epitome of modern Chiang Mai. By the way, the word “Thanon” means Road in Thai. ONE NIMMAN reflects this vibe with its beautiful architectural style, a unique blend of Lanna and modern influences. The use of brick adds a warm and inviting touch to the complex. Instagrammable spots are plentiful here, so get ready to capture some stunning photos!
For foodies like us, there's even a street market inside that comes alive with live music in the evenings. But if you prefer a more formal setting, there are fantastic restaurants to choose from. My personal favorites include Ginger Farm Kitchen and Kiew Kai Ka. And to top off a delicious meal, don't forget to grab coffee or dessert at Graph One Nimman.
Now, onto the fun part: shopping! ONE NIMMAN has a wide variety of shops offering cool products. If you're looking for a unique Thai gift, I highly recommend checking out Journal, a Thai perfume brand that draws inspiration from traditional culture and beliefs. Using ancient wisdom and natural ingredients, they take 3-6 months to craft unique scents that capture the essence of nature. Blending tradition with modern sensibilities, they produce high-quality, natural perfumes that would make a wonderful gift for yourself or a loved one. Another great local brand to consider is Hom Fragrances, which offers cute and affordable soy wax candles.
Tip: Consider staying in Nimman for its easy access to delicious eats within walking distance. Chiang Mai is a large province, and if you don't plan to drive, using Grab for rides is a necessity. Staying in Nimman allows you to explore the many great restaurants nearby on foot (stay tuned for more recommendations!). For a hotel recommendation, I recommend Eastin Tan Hotel Chiang Mai. It offers clean, spacious rooms at reasonable rates.
2. Cafe hopping in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a paradise for cafe hopping, offering a unique blend of trendy cafes, hidden gems, and local charm. With a vast array of options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect cup of coffee and ambiance.
Here's the thing: Cafe hopping is all about exploring different cafes and enjoying the coffee and atmosphere. But to make the most of your experience, it's important to do your research and plan your route. If you don't know where to start, I've got you covered!
Stop 1: Roast8ry
Start your coffee journey here at Roast8ry. This award-winning team of baristas shares a passion for coffee, evident in their unique concept cafes. Since 2011, their mission has been to serve the best coffee in every cup. Their foundation lies in their specialty coffee roasting lab, where they use their knowledge from high-end coffee farms around the world In short, they're passionate about bringing the finest coffee experience to Chiang Mai. They also hold 5th place World Latte Art champion in 2015. They have four locations in Chiang Mai, but since I stayed in Nimman, I went to ROAST8RY: LAB location in Nimman Soi 3.
I absolutely loved the vibe here, and the coffee was phenomenal. So don’t miss it!
Both Roast8ry and YELLOO are conveniently located in Nimman. Each is about 5 minutes walk from each other.
Stop 2: Yelloo
Yelloo Cafe is a minimalist cafe known for its sleek design, delicious coffee, and healthy food options. Located slightly opposite One Nimman, this cafe is famous among Thais for its frequent social media appearances. Many are drawn to its modern lines, white walls, and indoor-outdoor seating, making it a popular spot for Instagram-worthy pictures. I tried their Dirty Coffee for the first time, and I was impressed. The drinks here are tasty, with the coffee beans boasting a smooth flavor profile. Don't forget to add it to your itinerary!
3. Indulge in great food & drink
at beautiful Woo Cafe-Art Gallery-Lifestyle Shop
Have you heard the saying "Let the camera eat first"? When Thais go out to eat, we love taking pictures of our food. So, why not come and enjoy delicious and beautiful food in a nice setting?
Having a nice meal on a relaxing day is a joyful experience. And Woo Cafe-Art Gallery-Lifestyle Shop is the perfect place for it! The restaurant is beautifully decorated with fresh flowers and art. Don't be fooled by the stunning design – it also serves delicious Sai ua (one of the best I've had!) and lovely drinks. Inside the restaurant, they have a small retail section selling crafts and cute home decor. The style here is a romantic fusion of contemporary art and friendly service, making it a destination for people who enjoy both art and good food.
My friends and I went there to grab some small bites and drinks to relax in the middle of a hot day. And we can’t wait to go back again so check it out when you’re in town.
Tip: If you have time, the Art Gallery is located above the cafe. The gallery showcases a variety of artwork, including abstract art, sculptures, figurative paintings, and abstract expressionism. Indulging in arts during a day is fun joy!
4. Eat Khao Soi
It might be hard to choose where to go for the best Khao Soi! So, I want to suggest Kao Soy Nimman. Kao Soy Nimman is specialized in various Khao Soi variations, offering you a chance to experience the dish beyond the classic chicken.
If you're up for something new, try the Khao Soi with braised pork (moo-toon) - the rich pork flavor perfectly complements the thick and creamy soup. Don't miss their freshly grilled chicken satay for a delicious appetizer. Kao Soy Nimman is five-minute walk from One Nimman, making it easily accessible for travelers exploring the area!
Besides this one, you can consider other famous spots such as Khao-So-i , Khao Soi Lamduan and Khao Soy Maesai. They're all great in their own way, and it also depends on the location and how convenient it is for you to travel there. But no matter where you choose, I'm sure it will be delicious!
5. Eat famous Mooh Donut
Mooh Donut is a well-known, homemade donut shop beloved by Thais. I'd heard about them before this trip and made up my mind that I had to try them – and I wasn't disappointed at all! The donuts here are fresh, fluffy, and perfectly balanced in sweetness. The small shop itself is also adorable, making it a popular spot for Instagram-worthy photos.
I tried both the strawberry shortcake and lemon crumble donuts, and I absolutely loved them! If you'd like to try them too, make sure to get there between 7:30 AM and noon on weekends, as they often sell out before closing time at 3 PM. Just note that the shop is closed every Wednesday.
6. Pray to Buddha and enjoy panoramic views
at Wat Phra That Doi Kham
I enjoy going to temples to pray. Even though you're not Buddhist, visiting temples can still be a good experience. You can appreciate the culture and see the beautiful Lanna architecture. In fact, I think Wat Phra That Doi Kham, also known as the Temple of the Golden Mountain, would be a lovely temple to visit.
Located on top of Doi Kham Hill in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Doi Kham is estimated to have been constructed around the 7th or 8th century, making it one of the oldest temples in the northern region. It serves as a place of worship and meditation for both locals and visitors like me and my friends. The climb to the temple is rewarding, offering panoramic views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding valley. There's also a lush garden nearby with seating available for you to relax after your climb.
Besides this temple, I strongly recommend Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham. I've visited both and I promise you that they offer a great serenity and peace.
How to get here
7. Take photo at I Love Flower Farm
The farm's popularity, especially among Thai tourists, stems from its charming gardens brimming with flowers. It's a perfect spot for snapping picturesque photos with a floral backdrop. However, keep in mind that it's located quite far from the city center. You can check out their Facebook to see beautiful pictures and decide whether this is a place you want to visit. Since I prioritized proximity to the city center, I opted for this farm.
Alternatively, if you have more time and are willing to travel further, consider Rao Dok Lom Nhao community garden and Rai Wang Tharn.
How to get here
8. Appreciate the Lanna Colonial architecture
at The Inside House
The Inside House is a boutique hotel nestled in the Old Town near The Phae Gate. This hotel caught my eye with its unique charm. While I didn't stay here, I decided to pop in for a cold drink and soak up the beauty during my midday break. If you happen to stay here, consider booking The Glass Pool Suites room type - it's a real Instagram magnet!
What drew me in was the traditional Lanna Colonial architecture. I have a soft spot for the Colonial style, and here, it's beautifully blended with Northern Lanna elements. A bit of history, during King Rama V's reign (1868-1910), Thailand embraced Western influences, including architecture. This was a strategic move to resist colonization by European powers. King Rama V championed Western knowledge and technology, opening Siam to foreign advisors, sending students abroad, and reforming administration, military, and education based on Western models to build a stronger state. So, for me, this style embodies an early era of modernized Thailand.
By the way, the hotel boasts a lush garden, perfect for seeking artistic inspiration. So come here and relax is also ideal.
9. Have dinner at Chang Phuak Gate Night Market - Food Stalls
Exploring street food markets at night is always fun! My friends recommended Chang Phuak Gate Night Market - Food Stalls near Chang Pueak Gate which is filled with stalls serving up mouthwatering local dishes. The must-try was Chang Phueak Pork Leg Rice, also known as Khao Kha Mu Chang Phueak.
This dish features tender, braised pork leg served over fragrant white rice, accompanied by various side dishes and condiments. What makes it special is the slow-cooked pork leg, simmered in a broth infused with aromatics like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. The melt-in-your-mouth meat is served over white rice.
The dish often comes with a variety of sides, like pickled mustard greens, boiled egg, and stewed vegetables, adding textural and flavor contrasts. As in most Thai dishes, condiments are essential. For this one, the usual suspects are chili vinegar, garlic, and fish sauce. If you prefer less fat, just tell the vendor your preference. This place is a hidden gem, popular among locals and some Chinese tourists. If Pork Leg Rice isn’t your thing, don’t worry you will be sure to find something you love at this market. So don’t miss it!
How to get here
10. Shop for food and souvenir at Warorot Market (Kad Luang)
Warorot Market is the largest and most well-known market in Chiang Mai. Built around 1910, it's one of Chiang Mai's oldest markets and a center of local life. The market offers a vast array of products, including fresh produce, flowers, handicrafts, clothing, and of course, delicious Northern Thai food.
I came here specially to buy Sai Ua sausages. The market is bustling and fun to explore. So come here to buy local food and souvenir back for your loved ones is highly recommended.
How to get here
No matter what your trip agenda is, remember to savor the present moment and appreciate the local culture and people. I hope some of the things on my list will be a good additional to your exciting Chiang Mai travel plans!
As always, safe travels and have tons of fun!
