Chiang Mai Concierge Recommendations
Recommendations from our Concierge when you next visit Chiang Mai.
Jump To Chiang Mai Recommendations
- Art Galleries
- Landmarks & Temples
- Attractions
- Whitewater Rafting
- Hiking & Trekking
- Markets
- Elephant Interactions
- Golf
- Shopping
- Zipline
- Concierge Map
Art Galleries
Gallery Seescape
Initially the brainchild of Thai artist, Torlarp Larpjaroensoop in 2008, Gallery Seescape combines an art gallery, coffee shop and small boutique into a unique space for locals and visitors to escape the busyness of Chiang Mai. It’s the perfect spot to indulge your artistic senses, and enjoy the expertly curated exhibitions by local and international artists.
Open Tuesday – Sunday, from 11h00 – 20h00
22, 1 Nimmanahaeminda Road, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Gongdee Gallery
Gongdee Gallery showcases local creative talent in an artistic, tranquil atmosphere. The founder Vichit Chalwongse is himself a local artist, creating innovative furniture designs, decorated wall panels and mirrors. His unique style has become the hallmark of Gongdee Gallery. Soak up some of the local atmosphere when you relax with refreshments in the garden terrace, or browse the array of original artefacts, paintings, sculptures and household items.
Open daily from 08h00 – 20h00
Nimmana Haeminda Rd Lane 3, Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Sangdee Gallery and Café
Embracing art in all forms, the Sangdee Gallery is a popular place for residents and visitors to the area. It features art exhibitions, live performances, and even DJs, and is a great place to meet and socialise with like-minded art lovers and creative types.
Open Tuesdays & Wednesdays, from 11h00 – 22h00, and Thursday – Saturday, from 16h00 ‘til late
5 Siri Mangkalajarn Rd Lane 5, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Woo Café, Art Gallery & Lifestyle Shop (*Recommended*)
Wander through the unique displays of contemporary or abstract art, and browse the home décor items, before relaxing with a drink or a meal in the café. Woo Café, Art Gallery and Lifestyle Shop blends three relaxing activities in one stylish space, in the popular Wat Ket neighbourhood of Chiang Mai.
Open Daily from 10h00 – 21h00, closed on Wednesdays
80 Charoen Rat Road, Tambon Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000
Maiiam Contemporary Art Museum
Chiang Mai has for many years been famous for its skilled artisans and craftsmen. It’s a heritage to be proud of and celebrated, and why the Bunnag-Beurdeley family founded the museum. An old warehouse was transformed into a contemporary space where they could share their private collection that had taken thirty years to accumulate. Simple architecture and a clever use of both natural and reflected light showcase the artwork in an understated way, allowing visitors to focus on the pieces rather than the surroundings.
Purchase a souvenir from the museum shop, and enjoy a drink or a meal at the café to round off your time spent at MAIIAM.
Open daily from 10h00 – 18h00, closed on Tuesdays
122, Moo 7 Tonpao San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130
Tita Gallery
Tita Gallery is located in Mae Rim, about 30 minutes from the centre of Chiang Mai. Set in lush surroundings, it’s a popular stop for visitors exploring the North of Chiang Mai or on the way to the Mae Sa Elephant Camp. The space houses an art gallery, a coffee shop and a craft shop that sells locally made souvenirs and genuine Thai products.
Open Daily, from 08h00 – 18h00
Rim Tai, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180
Thongma Studio
Thongma Studio in Mae Rim is just as much an art space as it is a haven for foodies. The owner, sculptor Chamnian Thongma, displays his sculptured busts throughout, and along with the French-inspired furnishings, he showcases his flair for art and interior design. Choose lunch in the surrounding tropical garden, or enjoy coffee served by one of the friendly baristas. Either way, a visit to Thongma Studio is a treat.
Open daily, from 10h00 – 17h30
359 Moo 1 (Highway 1096), Mae Rim-Samoeng Road, Mae Rim, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180
Landmarks & Temples
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Overlooking the city from its perch on the regal Doi Suthep mountain is the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. This Buddhist temple is a sacred site to many Thai people, and attracts large numbers of both Thai and foreign visitors, as well as Buddhist pilgrims who come to view the holy Buddhist relics.
The temple is about 15km from the hotel. Once at the car park at the base of the temple, you’ll have a few options to reach the pagoda. Those with energy to burn can climb the 309 steps, or hike up the Monk’s Trail, and the less energetic can hop into a funicular railcar. From the temple pagoda you’ll have a panoramic view over Chiang Mai and the surrounding countryside.
Open daily, from 06h00 – 17h00
9 Moo 9, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Wat Chedi Luang
This Buddhist temple is in the centre of the “old town”, and a short ten-minute drive from the hotel. If you’re walking, it’s easy to find as the chedi, or pagoda, is one of the tallest structures in the old city, and the biggest chedi in Chiang Mai.
Construction of the initial 98-meter high chedi was completed in 1481, but sadly the upper 30m collapsed during an earthquake in 1545. The chedi was restored in the early 1990s, and it was embellished with statues of elephants around the base. The naga (water serpent) staircases on each of the sides of the chedi were also restored, and it’s believed that these are the best manmade serpents in North Thailand. The height of the structure was never reinstated, and today it still stands just over 50m high.
Apart from enjoying the obvious historical value of the temple, tourists are invited to speak to the monks in monk chats that take place daily. It’s the perfect chance to find out anything that you want to know about Buddhism or Thailand.
Open daily, from 06h00 – 17h00
103 Prapokkloa Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Wat Srisuphan (Silver Temple)
Wat Srisuphan is affectionately known as the Silver Temple because of the intricate silver embellishments on the exterior. Over the years parts of the temple were repaired with silver, but it was only in 2008 that work started on completely covering the building in silver. The interior of the temple is an interesting blend of silver, mirrors and bright colours. Following in old Buddhist tradition, women aren’t allowed to enter the temple.
Wat Srisuphan once served as the main temple for a silversmith village. There are still some silver studios around the temple where you can observe modern-day silversmiths at work, or purchase some of their creations. Monk chats take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday, and are a great way to learn about Buddhism and meditation.
Open daily, from 06h00 – 17h00
100 Wua Lai Rd, Tambon Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100
Wat Suan Dok (Flower Temple)
Within walking distance from the hotel is the Wat Suan Dok, also known as the Flower Temple. This 14th century Buddhist temple houses a few structures of historical significance. Among these is the golden pagoda, which is the largest of those at the temple, and in which the Buddha’s relics are enshrined. Access to the interior of the pagoda is on all four sides of the square base.
Adjacent to the principal pagoda, you’ll find the open-air assembly hall. This structure contains two Buddha images: one in a sitting meditative position, and the other standing behind it. The two face in opposite directions.
The whitewashed mausoleums can be seen from the street, and they contain the ashes of the late rulers of Chiang Mai.
Open daily, from 06h00 – 17h00
139 Suthep Rd, Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Wat Chiang Man
Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, dating back to the late 13th century. After construction it served as the residence for King Mengai, while the new city of Chiang Mai was being built. The larger of two halls at the temple contains the oldest Buddha in Chiang Mai, a standing image holding an alms bowl. In the smaller hall, we find two further Buddha images. One is a small crystal Buddha, called Phra Sae Tang Khamani which is 10cm tall, and believed to have healing powers. The other is a larger standing Buddha called Phra Sila. It is believed to bring rain for growing rice and is worshipped every April, before the Songkran festival.
The gardens around the temple are peaceful and rarely busy. It’s a perfect place to relax and appreciate the history around you.
Open daily, from 06h00 – 17h00
171 Ratchapakhinai Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Wat Phra Singh (Gold Temple)
A few kilometres from the hotel, within the walls of the old city, is Wat Phra Singh. This 14th century Buddhist temple is built in the Lanna style and comprises three main buildings. The temple's main feature is the assembly hall, Viharn Lai Kam. Inside the hall you’ll find murals depicting what life was like hundreds of years ago. You’ll also see Phra Singh, the Lion Buddha. This Buddha image is carried through the main streets of Chiang Mai every year at Songkran (Thai New Year) and the locals honour it by sprinkling it with water.
The larger, less elaborate assembly hall, Viharn Luang, houses a 15th century Buddha made from gold and copper. Also worth seeing is the library, Haw Trai, that contains various Buddhist scriptures. Renovations have been done to the buildings over the years, but a leisurely wander through the complex will still give you a good idea of the Lanna art and architecture.
Open daily, from 06h00 – 17h00
2 Samlarn Rd, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50280
Wat Umong
Wat Umong is located in a forested area at the foothills of the Suthep Mountains. Dating back to the 13th century, this is the only forest temple in Chiang Mai. It is famous for its meditation tunnels, and a large, unpainted chedi (pagoda). It’s the tunnels that give the Wat its name as Umong is the Thai word for tunnel. On the tunnel roof you can see remnants of drawings of elephants and temples from the 13th and 14th centuries.
The temple complex houses a working monastery. You will regularly see monks wandering around the complex in prayer, although they rarely use the tunnels for meditation these days due to the number of visitors to the area.
The grounds are very calming and peaceful, with a lake inhabited by catfish and turtles. The turtles aren’t seen frequently and you’re considered lucky if you happen to spot one.
Open daily, from 06h00 – 17h00
135 Moo 10 Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
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Attractions
Chiang Mai Night Safari
The Chiang Mai Night Safari is modelled on the night safari in Singapore. Guests will experience the thrill of being outside at night, among wildlife. There are three zones - Savanna Safari, Predator Prowl and the Jaguar Trail – all set around the lake. The Jaguar Trail is a walking trail that is also open during the day, and you can explore this at your leisure. Both the Savanna Safari and Predator Prowl are undertaken in open-sided safari trams and you’ll have sightings of giraffes, zebras, elephants, hyenas, lion and numerous other predators and their prey.
A kid’s zone, musical fountain, Tiger World and Digital Zoo are some of the other activities at the Chiang Mai Night Safari.
Open daily, from 11h00 – 22h00
33 Moo 12, Nong Kwai, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230
Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden
Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden opened in 1992. It was established in honour of Queen Sirikit, who is the Queen Mother of Thailand. Located in the foothills of the Doi Suthep-Pui Mountains north of Chiang Mai, it’s the first botanical garden in Thailand to meet international standards.
There is a lot to see in the botanical garden, and you can easily spend a whole day wandering through the different areas. There are a number of trails, ranging from the shorter Waterfall Trail that takes about 45 minutes, to the longer uphill Climber Trail that can take up to two hours to explore. Visitors can wander through the Fern Garden with its luscious array of shade plants and ferns, the Banana Avenue that showcases over 200 varieties of bananas or the white flower collection with over 200 varieties of white flowering plants.
The Glasshouse Complex is a highlight of the garden that opened in 2002. It comprises eight glasshouses with themed plant collections, and four exhibition conservatories. The glasshouses include Tropical Rainforest House, Arid House and Limestone House, among others. Most visitors prefer to travel by vehicle to this area as it’s located about an hour’s walk uphill from the entrance. You can take your own motorcycle or car into the garden, or you can make use of the shuttle bus that stops at each section.
Open Daily, from 08h30 – 17h00
100 Moo 9 Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180
Highland People Discovery Museum (Formerly the Tribal Museum)
The Highland People Discovery Museum is located about a twenty minute drive from the hotel adjacent to the King Rama IX Lanna Garden. The museum showcases the history and indigenous culture of nine hill tribes of Northern Thailand, including Hmong, Mien and Akha. Visitors can watch a short video on arrival and then wander through the museum at their leisure before browsing the authentic, handmade items in the gift shop.
Open daily, 09h00 – 16h00
Lanna Park, Rama 9 Chotana Rd, Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300
Chiang Mai Zoo
Located a short drive from the hotel in the foothills of the Doi Suthep Mountains is the Chiang Mai Zoo, the first zoo in Northern Thailand. Spread over 200 acres of land, the zoo is home to over 400 animal species, including elephants and tigers. The Zoo features attractions like the African Zone, with ostrich, giraffe and zebra; the Nakornping Bird Park, with over 1,500 birds; two pandas who are on loan from China; and Chiang Mai Aquarium, with its underwater tunnel providing unique views of the sea life.
It’s best to explore the zoo on foot, but there are shuttle buses that stop at each attraction. The admission fee to the zoo doesn’t allow access to all areas. Additional fees apply for certain areas, as well as to use the shuttle bus.
Open daily, from 08h00 – 18h00
100 Huay Kaew Rd, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Hiking & Trekking
Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park, also known as “The Rook of Thailand”, is a must-see for nature lovers. The park lies about 70km south-west of Chiang Mai city centre, and is one of the most popular national parks in Thailand. It spans more than 450sq kilometres, and is famous for the mountainous terrain, remote villages, fast-flowing rivers and waterfalls all surrounded by lush tropical forests and an abundance of birdlife.
The majestic Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain peak in the country, rises to a height of over 2,5km above sea level. The summit is one of the most popular areas in the park, with sweeping views across the landscape. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunrise.
If you’re visiting in late January or early February, you’ll be able to catch the beautiful Siamese sakura flowers in blossom, covering the trees in pink. The park is a natural habitat for wildlife like bats, deer and monkeys, as well as over 50 species of reptile.
While the park manages to maintain the natural beauty of the area, it has adjusted to the influx of tourists and offers a few cafes and restaurants as well as walkways, making movement through areas of rough terrain easier.
Open Daily, 06h00 – 18h00
Moo 7 119 Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50270
Mae Taeng Valley
The Mae Taeng District is an area just north of Chiang Mai that has become a hiking hotspot. There are a number of hiking trails winding through the hills and mountains, with rich natural beauty on all sides. Explore caves and waterfalls, or wander through lush farmland and rice paddies. You even have the chance to visit the Shan people, a remote tribal group, as well as Lahu Village, which is the home of another hill tribe, set in the mountains.
Whitewater Rafting
Mae Taeng Valley
Just 90 minutes northwest from downtown Chiang Mai, you’ll reach the Mae Taeng Valley. This beautiful, rugged area lies between Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary to the north and the Haui Nam Dang National Park to the west.
There are many ethnic hill tribes who reside in this area, as well as large populations of domestic elephants and other wildlife. Rafting down the Mae Taeng River will provide you with a decent dose of adrenaline, while giving you the chance to view the lush jungle landscape and wildlife. You may even catch site of one of the hill tribes, or spot an elephant bathing in the river!
Choose from either the 8km trip which is suitable for families, or the longer, more rapid-filled 10km trip. Either way, you’ll have a not-to-be-forgotten experience.
Mae-Wang River, Sanpatong District
Escape the tourists in Chiang Mai and experience part of the local life in Northern Thailand. You’ll be collected from your hotel in the morning for a scenic trek through the jungle on the outskirts of the Inthanon National Park.
While trekking you’ll pass a waterfall, and have lunch jungle-style after which you’ll arrive at a Karen hill tribe village. Bamboo rafting on the Mae-Wang River is popular in this area, and you’ll be able to view the local riverside activities at leisure as you float down the river. After a fun-filled day, you’ll be dropped back your hotel to relax and enjoy the evening.
Markets
Warorot Market
This is a local market is one of the largest in the Northern part of Thailand. It is popular with both locals and tourists and has a great variety of ready-to-eat meals, local snacks and fresh produce. There are also stalls selling inexpensive clothing and fashion accessories. If you want a taste of local Thai life, then the warorot market is one to visit.
Open daily, 06h00 – 17h00
90 Wichayanon Rd, Tambon Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300
Ton Payom Market
This is another local market with a great array of fresh produce, fresh meat, chilli paste and other ingredients to throw together a traditional Thai meal. You can also buy ready-cooked meals: curries, noodle dishes, fried rice and other popular street food dishes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try an authentic Thai snack like barbecued frogs or deep-fried pigskin.
Open daily, 06h00 – 18h00
Suthep Rd, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Sompet Market
Sompet Market is an open-air market in the Old City area of Chiang Mai, close to the Thapae Gate. The location is easily accessible for tourists who will enjoy the local atmosphere at this food market. It’s a particularly popular market for fresh fruit, as well as other fresh produce. You can also buy ready-cooked meals here, some snacks to nibble on, or for the more health-conscious, a fresh smoothie might be in order.
The market can get crowded in the morning and early afternoon as it’s a popular market for teachers of cooking classes. They bring their students here to purchase the ingredients that they need for that day’s dish.
Open daily, 06h00 – 17h00
131/3 Mun Mueang Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300
Muang Mai Wholesale Market
This is one of the markets for fresh produce, and many farmers from the north of Thailand sell their goods here at wholesale prices. It’s a great place to pick up some exotic Thai fruits, like durian and langosteen. You may also find a small number of stalls selling clothing and other items. The market is located outside the Old City, close to the Ping River.
Open 24 hours a day
1, 1 Wichayanon Rd, Tambon Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300
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Elephant Interactions
Patara Elephant Farm
Patara Elephant Farm gives visitors the opportunity to interact with these majestic animals, learn all about them and understand their way of life. The farm has three personalized packages, all providing valuable insight and unique experiences.
Take the chance to be an Elephant Caregiver for a Day, with this in depth package from Patara Elephant Farm. You’ll be involved in all aspects of caring for elephants, as their caregivers are on a daily basis. This includes being trained to approach an elephant, conduct a health inspection, walk and feed your elephant, and bathe and brush it in the river. After that, you’ll be shown how to ride the elephant, bare-back and high up on its neck, as well as how to communicate with it.
The other packages – Baby Elephant for a Day, and Elephant Day Care – are less in depth, and don’t allow for any elephant-riding, but still provide interesting insight into the care of these gentle giants.
Guests are collected from the hotel and dropped back at the hotel after the tour.
Ban Pong, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230
Maesa Elephant Camp & The Chang
The Maesa Elephant Camp was founded in 1976 with six elephants on loan from the Karen hill tribe. Various activities like elephant riding and show were introduced as there was a push for the development of tourism in the area. The camp has grown substantially in the last 40 years, and there have been many operational changes. The camp promotes a natural environment for the elephants, one where these pachyderms are free from chains and there is no riding or shows for tourists. As of March 2020, elephant-riding at Maesa ended for good.
The Chang is the rest and rehabilitation centre at Maesa Elephant Camp. Here, visitors have the chance to prepare food for and feed the elephants, and walk with them to either bathe in the stream or the mud bath. A full day and half day packages are available and provides a wonderful opportunity to learn about the largest land mammals in the world.
Packages include collection from and drop-off at the hotel, as well as refreshments with the half-day package and lunch with the full-day packages.
Tapae Road, 119/9 1096, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50100
Thai Elephant Conservation Centre
The Thai Elephant Conservation Centre is an educational centre offering different activities for tourists and locals. Some are designed to showcase the strength and intelligence of the elephants, while others provide the opportunity to interact with them. You can observe the elephants bathing, which they do twice a day, or you can have a traditional elephant walk while seated on the mammal in a wooden-framed howda.
The conservation centre also showcases the role that a Mahout plays in caring for the elephant. You can learn to bathe an elephant, walk and ride the elephant as is done daily by the mammals’ carers. You can even learn about becoming a mahout by completing a one-day programme.
While you’re at the centre, don’t miss out on a visit to the elephant hospital where the elderly and ill elephants are well taken care of. The Thai Elephant Conservation Centre is about an 80 kilometres south-east of Chiang Mai.
Open Daily, 08h00 – 16h30
Hang Chat District, Lampang 52190
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Golf
There are approximately 250 golf courses in Thailand, and this alone is a major tourist attraction. With the lush landscape in the Chiang Mai area, it’s no doubt that you’ll find some of the country’s best courses here.
Alpine Golf Resort Chiang Mai
The Alpine Golf Resort boasts three international championship golf courses, 27 holes in total, which were designed by the award-winning course designer, Ron M Garl. The courses are challenging, but offer a balanced combination of easy and difficult holes. The golf resort is located about 45 minutes from the Akyra Manor Hotel.
Once off the course, have a meal in one of the two restaurants at the resort, or simply enjoy a cocktail and snack after cooling off in the pool. For some extra relaxation, two spa pavilions are poolside each with a Jacuzzi, steam bath and treatment area.
Sankamphaeng Banthi Road Chiang Mai, 50130
Chiang Mai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort
Chiang Mai Highlands opened in 2005 and became an award-winning course almost straight away, being named one of the Top Three New Courses in Asia by Asian Golf Monthly. It garnered further awards in the following years, including Best Value for Money Experience Golf Course in Asia and reaching the Top 10 of the best courses in Thailand.
This 27-hole Championship course is laid out along the mountain and valley, affording the players spectacular views from every hole. In addition, the resort offers a 300 yard practice range, putting greens, a swimming pool, spa and fitness facilities. The open air restaurant provides great views over the course.
Moo 2 167 On Nuea, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Chiang Mai Inthanon Golf and Natural Resort
Chiang Mai Golf Resort was initially designed as a 9-hole course in 1940, however was later redesigned due to a lack of trees and too much exposure to the wind. It reopened in 1990 as a 27-hole course, and is spread over 25 hectares of flat terrain. There’s a decent mix of holes including some to give a bit of a challenge to even the best golfer.
A clubhouse was built in 1963, and is strategically placed to give exceptional views across the course. There’s a practice area for your short game, and you can book lessons with one of the five pros at the club. For those wanting a break from golf, tennis facilities are also available.
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 07h00 – 17h00, Sundays 06h30 – 19h00
99 Moo 13 T. Khuangpao, A. Jomthing, Doi Lo District, Chiang Mai 50160
Summit Green Valley Chiang Mai Country Club
This is the second golf course in the Summit Group, with the first being the Summit Windmill Golf Residence in Bangkok. This world-class course is framed by mountains, with plenty of lush trees, lakes and ponds providing an incredibly scenic landscape. The course is 18 holes, and is fairly tough with elevation changes, wind and bunkers adding challenges on almost every hole.
The clubhouse comprises three floors and includes a pro shop, locker facilities as well as the Thai Lanna Restaurant. The restaurant offers Thai and Asian cuisine with stunning views over the golf course and gardens.
186 Moo 1 Chotana Rd, Mae Sa, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180
Maejo Golf Club
This 18-hole, par 72 golf course was designed to blend into the surrounding natural terrain. It features some elevated tee boxes which give players superb views across the course, and the greens are considered to be some of the most challenging in Northern Thailand. A few of the fairways are lined with fruit trees bearing lychees, tangerines and pomellos – great for a quick, refreshing snack! The course is suitable for all levels of player, with different tee boxes for low and high handicappers.
Maejo Golf Club is located about 30 minutes from the hotel, and is easy to find close to the Maejo University. The restaurant in the Lanna-style clubhouse has a terrace overlooking the course and provides beautiful views of the mountain sunset. If there is anything you’re lacking on arrival, the Pro shop is well stocked with clothing and equipment.
112 Moo 7 Ban Sriboonruang, Pahpai, San Sai District, Chiang Mai 50210
Shopping
Nimmanhaeminda Road
Chiang Mai is well known for its array of handcrafted items, and you’ll find plenty to fill those empty gaps in your luggage in Nimmanhaeminda Road. Browse the little boutiques, window shop at the more upmarket shops or wander at leisure through one of the shopping malls. It’s a pleasant area to shop, and you’re sure to come across many unique shops with quaint gifts to take home to your friends.
When your legs, and wallet, need a break, choose one of the many restaurants or cafes to have a coffee, cocktail or bite to eat to replenish your energy.
Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai
Sunday Walking Street (Cultural Street)
As the name suggests, this market is only open on Sundays but if you’re in Chiang Mai over a weekend it’s a must-visit place. It extends about one kilometre down Ratchadamnoen Road, from the ThaPhae Gate. The stretch of road is closed to traffic while the market is open which allows shoppers much more freedom to wander through the stalls looking for hidden treasures.
It’s popular with both locals and tourists, all shopping for bargains. Many handcrafted items are for sale here, as well as shoes, souvenirs, clothing and silk products. The atmosphere really picks up after sunset and you’ll find musicians, street performers and dancers out in force.
Open Sundays only, from 16h00 – 00h00
Wua Lai Silver Street (Saturday Market)
This market is open only on Saturdays and is located opposite the Chiang Mai Gate in Wua Lai Road. Like the Sunday Walking Street, the road is closed to traffic for the duration of the market. There are an abundance of silversmith shops selling handcrafted silver items like jewellery and sculptures. Other stalls selling wood carvings, candles and ornaments are great places to pick up some real bargains for family and friends at home.
There are no fixed restaurants at Wua Lai Silver Street, but now is the time to try some delicious Thai street food, if you haven’t already. The market comes alive after dark, with stalls it up and street performers creating a wonderful friendly atmosphere.
Open Saturday only, from 16h00 – 00h00
Wua Lai Rd, Tambon Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100
Ban Tawai Wood Carving Village
Ban Tawai is an ancient village over 100 years old, located 20 minutes south of the hotel. It’s the home of the wood carving industry in Chiang Mai. It’s considered one of the biggest cultural attractions in Chiang Mai Province for tourists and is well known to both foreigners and locals. Here, you’ll find superbly crafted wood carvings, wicker products and pottery, among a myriad of other handiworks. Wood products are in abundance at Ban Tawai, all great quality and often at bargain prices.
One of the village attractions is the demonstrations given on the various crafting processes. You can see how wooden products are manufactured, a lacquer ware demonstration, and you may even catch a carpentry competition. There are plenty of little coffee shops where you can relax and admire your purchases.
Open daily
Khun Klong Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230
Sankampaeng and Umbrella Making Village
Sankampang Road is another area around Chiang Mai where you can watch craftsmen at work. The shops, showrooms and factories that line the road are wonderful places to shop for handcrafted items and souvenirs.
One of the highlights of Sankampaeng is a visit to the umbrella making village, Bo sang. This village is famous for the beautiful umbrellas that were originally made with Saa paper that comes from the bark of mulberry trees. In years gone by, elders in the village would make them after the annual rice crop as a means of making extra money. These days they are made with Saa paper and silk, and have intricate designs hand painted on the umbrella canopy.
The Bo sang umbrella-making centre is open daily from 08h30 – 17h00
No. 111/2 Moo 3, Bo Sang - Doi Saket Road Ton Pao, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130
One Nimman and Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre
If something a little more hip and trendy appeals to you more than markets and craft villages, a visit to either Nimman or the Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre should scratch that itch. One Nimman offers upmarket clothing and gifts, art and souvenirs. Cafes and an open-air food hall are great places to relax and indulge in some people-watching.
The Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre is a large, modern shopping mall housing a variety of international brand shops as well as some local brands. An entire floor dedicated to fast food outlets, cafes and restaurants should cover all culinary tastes, and if you want to see Chiang Mai from a different perspective, visit the rooftop bar for a glimpse of a true Thai sunset.
Maya, Mueang Chiang Mai 50000
Central Plaza Chiang Mai Airport
Within walking distance of the Chiang Mai Airport is the Central Plaza Mall, a great place to pick up last minute gifts and souvenirs. The mall has a variety of shops selling local and international brands, and spread over three floors. A seven screen cinema offers both Thai movies, and international films with subtitles. The Relaxation Spa and Massage on the top floor is where you can get your traditional Thai massages, oil massages and reflexology, before visiting the food court for some Thai food at excellent value.
2 Mahidol Rd, Pa Daet Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100
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Zipline
Flight of the Gibbon
Flight of the Gibbon was first set up in 2007and has grown to be the largest zipline in Asia. It’s a combination of ziplines and rope bridges taking you on a tour through the exotic Thai rainforest. You are also taken on an educational walk through the rainforest where you’ll learn all about the different flora and fauna that are found in this region.
The experience is around seven hours with transport, and includes two to three hours of ziplining. You are given a full safety briefing and safety gear before setting off. After lunch, you can choose to hike to the Mae Kampong Waterfall, or you can take the time to relax and reflect on your experience, before heading back to Chiang Mai and your hotel.
106 Village, No.3, Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Eagle Track Zipline
Eagle Track is Tumbol Maeram in the Mae Rim District, about an hour from Chiang Mai city. The area lies between three hill tribe villages, and the surrounding area is lush with paddy fields and Maeram River.
There are three zipline packages to choose from, the longest being the Gold Package with 16 ziplines and three abseils, as well as numerous bridges, ladders, beams and other obstacles to cross. The Silver Package has nine ziplines, two abseils and various obstacles and the Bronze Package has six ziplines and one abseil, with the obligatory assortment of additional obstacles.
The experienced team at Eagle Track provides all the relevant safety information and equipment and will ensure that you have the time of your life.
41/1 Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai
Jungle Flight
Jungle Flight has been operating since 2009 and is located in the rainforest on one of Thailand’s highest mountains. The zipline enables you to experience the natural beauty of the area while flying through the tree canopy on a series of cables. Jungle Flight also boasts the longest single zipline in Thailand at 1000m!
There are three packages available, each one longer than the previous one, with more bridges, ladders and ziplines.
The trip takes about six hours in total, including collection and drop off at the hotel.
47/2 Mun Mueang Rd, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Concierge Map to Chiang Mai
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akyra MANOR CHIANG MAI
22/2 Nimmana Haeminda Road Soi 9,
Su Thep, Muang Chiang Mai District,
Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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