Summary of Day Trips from Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is replete with attractions that captivate visitors for days. However, the city’s allure as a travel destination is significantly augmented by its scenic location. Known as the “Rose of the North,” it is surrounded by lush jungles and expansive rice fields, where cottage craft industries thrive and breathtaking temples beckon. This is a region eagerly awaiting exploration.
From rejuvenating lakeside relaxation in Huay Teung Tao to invigorating hikes in Doi Inthanon, below are five remarkable day trips originating from Chiang Mai.
1. Watch the sunrise at Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s best-known national park
Travel time: 2 hours
Named after Thailand’s highest peak at 8,415 feet (2,565 meters), Doi Inthanon National Park is among the country’s foremost national parks, encompassing over 185 square miles (480 square kilometers) and housing numerous waterfalls, hiking trails, viewpoints, hill tribe villages, and diverse bird species.
This park garners significant attention, especially during Thailand’s cool season from November to January when temperatures drop at higher elevations, occasionally leading to frost – a spectacle that captivates Thai visitors accustomed to warmer climates. It often makes headlines as well.
Doi Inthanon is one of the few national parks in Thailand that is well-suited for driving, with well-maintained roads linking key attractions, including the Kaew Mae Pan Nature Trail. This short yet spectacular trail, which requires guidance from a local expert (who provides bamboo hiking sticks), meanders through some of the park’s most scenic areas, offering stunning vantage points overlooking the valleys.
Many individuals opt for Doi Inthanon as a day trip, either independently or via an organized tour. Alternatively, basic bungalow accommodations or camping options are available, allowing guests to wake up above the clouds.
How to get to Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai: A full-day taxi service, which includes the return trip and various stops throughout the park, costs approximately 3,000 Baht (around $95). A more economical alternative is to use a shared songthaew (passenger van) heading toward the park.
2. Graze on delicious Thai food overlooking Huay Teung Tao
Travel time: 30-45 mins
Officially a man-made reservoir, serene Huay Teung Tao is a popular local retreat for leisurely afternoons spent in simple bamboo huts situated right by the water. It tends to attract families and groups of friends, especially on weekends and public holidays.
In recent years, an array of activities has emerged around the reservoir, including ATV riding and paddleboarding. Nonetheless, enjoying local Thai cuisine and refreshing beverages from one of the huts remains the preferred pastime. Each hut corresponds to a different restaurant, all offering similar menus, quality, and pricing – so simply select a spot, order some food or drinks, and savor the experience.
How to get to Huay Teung Tao from Chiang Mai: Located just 9 miles (14 kilometers) from the center of Chiang Mai’s old city, along Highway 121 or “Canal Road,” Huay Teung Tao is easily accessible via a songthaew, by calling a car using the Grab ride-sharing app, or with your own transportation.
3. Visit traditional artisans in the villages of Bo Sang and San Khampaeng
Travel time: 1.5 hours for both
Chiang Mai has established itself as a nexus for handicrafts, recognized for its artisans specializing in wood carving, silversmithing, weaving, and more. Today, these skilled craftsmen continue to practice many traditional arts, resulting in a plethora of unique, handmade souvenirs available throughout the city and its many markets, which range from baskets and furniture to jewelry and ceramics.
For the finest selection of authentic souvenirs, venture east out of the city on Highway 1006, also referred to as the “handicraft highway,” to discover the quaint villages of Bo Sang and San Khampaeng. Bo Sang is known for its umbrella and paper-making, while San Khampaeng specializes in textiles and ceramics. Numerous workshops and showrooms are located along the main road or indicated by signs guiding you.
For a contrasting perspective on Thailand’s art and handicrafts, consider visiting the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum, just a few miles from Bo Sang, which features exhibitions of contemporary Thai artists. Alternatively, if your interests lie in furniture and home decor, head south of Chiang Mai city to Hang Dong toward the woodcarving village of Ban Tawai.
How to get to Bo Sang and San Khampaeng from Chiang Mai: White songthaews depart for Bo Sang from near Warorot Market in Chiang Mai. Taxis and Grab cars are also convenient options to reach these destinations, including Ban Tawai.
4. Photograph the incredible White Temple and Black House
Travel time: 3.5 hours for both
Although somewhat demanding as a day trip, if your time is limited and you can’t include the adjacent Chiang Rai Province in your travel itinerary, it is feasible to visit two of the region’s most cherished landmarks – Wat Rong Khun and Baandam – in a single day from Chiang Mai.
Commonly referred to in English as the White Temple (although it is not a functioning place of worship), Wat Rong Khun was envisioned by renowned contemporary Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Its sparkling white architecture is distinctive; visitors traverse a sea of outstretched arms (symbolizing desire) to reach the temple’s inner sanctum, where eclectic murals feature images of iconic actors such as Keanu Reeves and Superman.
In proximity, Baandam, or the “Black House,” represents another surreal creation by local artist Thawan Duchanee. In contrast to the glittering Wat Rong Khun, Baandam encompasses a vast collection of structures, sculptures, and gardens constructed from dark teak wood, alongside natural elements and dramatic arrangements. Both complexes are likely to leave a lasting impression – or perhaps even induce nightmares – for visitors.
How to get to the White Temple and Black House from Chiang Mai: Consider renting a car for the journey or look for package tours to the temples that often include hotel pick-up at approximately 8 AM for an evening return around 8 PM. Alternatively, budget-friendly buses operate regularly between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
5. Do the Samoeng Loop on a motorbike tour
Travel time: 2.5 hours
One cannot truly experience Chiang Mai without venturing into its picturesque hills. For those confident in their riding abilities, the 62-mile (100 kilometers) ‘Samoeng Loop’ is a popular choice among both locals and visitors, particularly on weekends and during the dry season.
A direct ride will take approximately 2.5 hours; however, the route offers numerous opportunities for stops, including Nam Tok Mae Sa, a scenic – though occasionally crowded – tiered waterfall ideal for swimming, as well as Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens, a sprawling, manicured haven overflowing with exotic flora. Therefore, planning for four hours or more is advisable. Although a car and driver can complete the loop, it’s the sheer experience of riding that truly enhances the journey, as you enjoy the breeze and take in panoramic vistas.
Scooter rentals are readily available from multiple providers in Chiang Mai, or you may consider joining a guided motorcycle tour around the loop.
How to get to the Samoeng Loop from Chiang Mai: Start by heading north out of the city via Highway 107 to Mae Rim, then turn left onto Highway 1096. This path ascends into the hills, leading past quaint restaurants, strawberry farms, Royal Project agriculture endeavors, and scenic views of the valley before arriving at the small village of Samoeng. Turn left onto Highway 1296 to begin the return loop toward Chiang Mai.
This article was first published Sep 25, 2019, and updated Nov 27, 2023.
