Best Adventures in Chiang Mai

Top 15 Things to do in Chiang Mai

There is certainly no shortage of things to do in Chiang Mai and there is plenty on offer for people of all ages.  With a lively, dynamic city, forested mountains, winding rivers and idyllic rural landscapes many of the best things to do in Chiang Mai are easily accessible, professionally operated and fun!  Here is our list of the top 15 things to do in Chiang Mai.  Looking for other attractions?  Check out our list of best attractions in Chiang Mai here!

The List of  Top 15 Things to do in Chiang Mai

Why we like it:

The original and best zipline in Chiang Mai, Flight of the Gibbon has been operating in the stunning Mae Kampong region of Chiang Mai for over 10 years.  With 20+ varied stations of fun, some of the longest ziplines in Asia, a memorable lunch experience and waterfall hike, its no wonder Flight of the Gibbon is the highest rated zipline in Chiang Mai according to Trip Advisor. 

Why we like it:

This unique Chiang Mai city tour allows visitors to glide effortlessly around the narrow alleys and streets of Chiang Mai’s old city accompanied by expert guides.  Visitors will learn about some of the well known as well as lesser known highlights in the city as well as enjoy a delicious snack and refreshment along the way. 

Why we like it:

Located an hour from Chiang Mai is the Teang river and home to some of the best white water in Chiang Mai.  In the wet season adventure seekers can expect up to class III rapids along a 10km stretch of river surrounded by stunning jungle.  8Adventures is our pick for operators with an exceptional safety record, the best equipment and guides that ensure thrill seekers are 100% satisfied. 

Why we like it:

Quad biking is another popular activity offered by 8Adventures with options to suit various skill levels.  Experienced guides will take visitors around the beautiful Mae Teang valley on a variety of trails to quench the thirst of any intrepid explorer.  8Adventures is our pick for quad biking thanks to the superior quads, quality equipment and excellent guides.  

Why we like it:

Elephant Nature Park is a unique project set in Chiang Mai province, Northern Thailand. Established in the 1990’s their aim has always been to provide a sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants. The park is located some 60km from the city, and has provided a sanctuary for dozens of distressed elephants from all over Thailand.  

Why we like it:

This personalized program will give you a memorable experience to understand the most present living conditions of Thai elephants and how we can save them. Basically you will know and do as what one of an elephant caregiver would have to know and do to keep elephant healthy and happy for an exciting day at Patara.

Why we like it:

Bamboo rafting in Chiang Mai is a fun way for the entire family to experience nature in a safe environment with a gentle cruise down one of the nearby rivers.  Bamboo rafting is popular in Mae Wang district and Mae Teang and can be combined with a number of other activities for those short on time.    

Why we like it:

Bamboo rafting in Chiang Mai is a fun way for the entire family to experience nature in a safe environment with a gentle cruise down one of the nearby rivers.  Bamboo rafting is popular in Mae Wang district and Mae Teang and can be combined with a number of other activities for those short on time.    

Why we like it:

You could spend weeks exploring the temples of Chiang Mai, among the many famous temples such as Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh are a whole host of smaller temples tucked down alleys all over the city.  We recommend checking out the silver temple (Wat Sri Suphan) and Wat Chiang Man as two beautiful examples of lesser visited temples. 

Why we like it:

With Doi Suthep-Pui on Chiang Mai’s doorstep it’s easy to escape for a morning or afternoon and enjoy a gentle walk and a picnic.  We recommend a hike up the monk’s trail to enjoy the city panorama, or take a red truck to Huay Tung Tao to enjoy a lakeside picnic with amazing mountain views.  Slightly further afield is Mae Ngaat, a large resevoir with floating restaurants, kayaks for rent and inflatables for the family to enjoy.  This is an inexpensive way to explore Chiang Mai and see the lesser known attractions.     .    

Why we like it:

You will learn how to cook by preparing the dishes yourself so be prepared to cut, chop and fry. Practical experience is the best way to learn the art of Thai cuisine and therefore everyone will have their own work station to work with their own ingredients and prepare their individual dishes. Dazzle your friends and family with your new cooking skills! .    

Why we like it:

Chiang Mai is home to some of the best mountain biking in Asia with a range of trails to suit all abilities.  Mountain bikers can enjoy amazing trails, stunning views and a unique insight into the local tribes seldom seen by tourists.    Trailhead Thailand is a leading cycling tour company in Chiang Mai offering mountain biking, rural cycling and city tours for people of all ages.   

Why we like it:

Chiang Mai Rock Climbing is a long-established company offering rock climbing and caving tours in Chiang Mai.  Visitors will get to rappel into the belly of a Chiang Mai Cave and explore ancient underground caverns and formations with expert guides.  This is a unique adventure not possible to the general public and makes for a fascinating tour.   

Why we like it:

Chiang Mai Rock Climbing is a long-established company offering rock climbing and caving tours in Chiang Mai.  Visitors will get to rappel into the belly of a Chiang Mai Cave and explore ancient underground caverns and formations with expert guides.  This is a unique adventure not possible to the general public and makes for a fascinating tour.   

Why we like it:

8Adventures can guide visitors on some of the best trekking routes in Thailand and have tours lasting just a few hours to several days.  The experienced guides often come from hilltop tribes and can teach visitors about local customs and cultures and provide unique insights into the flora and fauna.