Joanna James
Chiang Mai is home to numerous beautiful temples and unique sites including interesting museums, national parks, safaris, and much more. Check out these top five things to do during your time here.
Located atop the regal mountain overlooking Chiang Mai city, lies the beautiful temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. A striking embodiment of Lanna culture, the temple's origins date back almost 700 years. The attraction is one of the most spiritually and historically significant places in Thailand and is visited by countless travellers on many a Mekong river cruise in Luang Prabang including those offered by companies the likes of Mekong Kingdoms. Those who wish to take a meditation course can do so at the International Buddhism Center located on the spacious temple grounds.
The Chiang Mai Night Safari is modeled after a similar attraction in Singapore, this experience explores three features of animal zones including the Jaguar Trail, Savanna Safari, and Predator Prowl. Which visitors can tour on foot or open-sided tram. One will also get the opportunity to enjoy a range of activities designed to keep visitors entertained throughout the visit from taking in the dancing fountain, laser light shows, hand-feeding animals, and much more. The safari spot is situated in Hangdong, which is located 12 km from the city. To get there consider hiring a red songtaew from the center of the city. Do remember to settle on a price before setting off.
Full of exhibitions about the history lives, and culture of the Lanna people of northern Thailand, the Lanna Folklife Museum is located in the center of the old city. The museum building has been recently renovated and now resembles and the colonial façade of yesteryear. The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8.30 am in the morning to 5.00 pm in the evening. The admission fee for children is 40 baht and 90 baht for adults.
The beloved Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai is among the first of the new breed of attractions that prioritise the welfare of animals above all. The sanctuaries very often act as care homes for elephants previously employed in the tourism and logging industries. Upon visiting, you will have the opportunity to interact with the gentle giants and learn more about these majestic animals. Do note that riding them is strictly out of the question. Admission for children under 10 is 1,300 baht and 1,700 baht per adult.
The beautifully handcrafted parasols and umbrellas in Bo Sang Village are famous throughout the country and even internationally. So much so that these delicate umbrellas have become synonymous with the city of Chiang Mai. Here you can watch how these products are made and hand-painted, and get the opportunity to shop an array of souvenirs at reasonable prices.
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