Top 5 Day Trips from Chiang Mai

While Chiang Mai offers an abundance of attractions that could keep visitors entertained for days, its allure as a destination is heightened by its picturesque surroundings. Known as the 'Rose of the North,' the city is nestled among lush hills and verdant rice fields, where traditional crafts flourish and stunning temples await exploration.

From relaxing lakeside retreats at Huay Teung Tao to adventurous hikes around Doi Inthanon, discover five fantastic day trips from Chiang Mai.

1. Experience the sunrise at Doi Inthanon, Thailand's most famous national park

Travel duration: 2 hours

Named after Thailand's highest peak at 8,415 feet (2,565 meters), Doi Inthanon National Park spans over 185 square miles (480 square kilometers). This renowned park is rich with waterfalls, hiking trails, viewpoints, hill tribe communities, and diverse bird species.

This park is particularly significant during Thailand's cold season from November to January, when temperatures drop at higher altitudes, sometimes even leading to frost—a rarity that draws in locals accustomed to the tropical heat. It occasionally makes headlines.

Doi Inthanon is among the few national parks in Thailand with accessible roads linking major sites, including the stunning Kaew Mae Pan Nature Trail. This short yet breathtaking trail, best navigated with a local guide and provided bamboo hiking sticks, meanders through some of the park's most picturesque landscapes to offer stunning views of the valleys below.

Many visitors make Doi Inthanon a day trip, either independently or via organized tours, but you can also opt for basic bungalow accommodations or camp on the mountain overnight to experience waking up above the clouds.

Getting to Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai: A full-day taxi service, covering the return journey and various stops in the park, costs approximately 3,000 Baht (around $95). Alternatively, you can take a shared songthaew (passenger van) heading towards the park for a more budget-friendly option.

2. Enjoy tasty Thai cuisine with a view of Huay Teung Tao

Travel time: 30-45 minutes

Although a man-made reservoir, the serene Huay Teung Tao is a beloved spot for spending the day in simple bamboo huts right on the water. It’s especially popular with families and groups of friends during weekends and public holidays.

In recent years, various activities have emerged around the reservoir, including ATV riding and paddle boarding. However, lounging in one of the huts, enjoying local Thai dishes and bottles of beer remains the top choice for experiencing Huay Teung Tao. Each hut is associated with a different restaurant, all offering similar menus, quality, and prices—just pick a spot, place your order, and relax as long as you wish.

How to reach Huay Teung Tao from Chiang Mai: Located just 9 miles (14 km) from the center of Chiang Mai’s old city, along Route 121 or 'Canal Road,' Huay Teung Tao is easily accessible via a songthaew, a Grab ride, or your own vehicle.

3. Explore the traditional artisans in the villages of Bo Sang and San Khampaeng

Travel time: 1.5 hours for both

Chiang Mai has a rich history as a hub for handicrafts, boasting artisans skilled in wood carving, silversmithing, weaving, and more. Today, these craftsmen continue to create many traditional arts and crafts, resulting in a variety of unique, handmade souvenirs available throughout the city and its bustling markets, ranging from baskets and furniture to jewelry and ceramics.

For the best selection of authentic souvenirs, travel east along Highway 1006, known as the 'handicraft highway,' to discover the quaint villages of Bo Sang and San Khampaeng. While Bo Sang focuses on umbrella and paper-making, San Khampaeng is famous for its textiles and ceramics. Numerous workshops and showrooms line the main road, easily identified by signs directing visitors.

For a different perspective on Thailand's art and crafts, visit the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum, located just a few miles from Bo Sang, where you can enjoy exhibitions featuring contemporary Thai artists. If you prefer furniture and home decor, head south from Chiang Mai to the woodcarving village of Ban Tawai.

Getting to Bo Sang and San Khampaeng from Chiang Mai: White songthaews depart for Bo Sang from near Warorot Market in Chiang Mai. Alternatively, taxis and Grab rides are easily accessible and are also the best choice for reaching Ban Tawai.

4. Capture stunning photos of the remarkable White Temple and Black House

Travel duration: hours for both sites

Although it can be a bit challenging as a day trip, if you're short on time and can't visit the neighboring Chiang Rai Province during your stay in Thailand, it's possible to explore two of the region's most cherished attractions – Wat Rong Khun and Baandam – in a single day from Chiang Mai.

Known in English as the White Temple (even though it's not a functioning place of worship), Wat Rong Khun was conceived by contemporary Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. The striking white complex is best described as quirky, requiring visitors to pass through a sea of outstretched arms (symbolizing desire) to enter the temple, where vivid murals featuring figures like Keanu Reeves and Superman decorate the walls.

In the vicinity, Baandam, or 'Black House,' is another surreal masterpiece created by Chiang Rai artist Thawan Duchanee. In contrast to the glimmering Wat Rong Khun, Baandam comprises a vast collection of structures, sculptures, and gardens showcasing dark teak wood, animal remnants, and eerie displays. Both the white and black sites are sure to leave a lasting impression – or perhaps even haunt your dreams.

Getting to the White Temple and Black House from Chiang Mai: You can either rent a car for the journey or join one of the several package tours that typically pick you up from your hotel around 8 am and bring you back to Chiang Mai by 8 pm. For those who prefer to travel independently, budget-friendly buses frequently operate between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

5. Experience the thrill of the Samoeng Loop on a motorbike tour

Travel duration: 2.5 hours

No trip to Chiang Mai is complete without venturing into its surrounding hills. For those who feel at ease on two wheels, the 62-mile (100 km) 'Samoeng Loop' is a favorite among both locals and tourists, particularly on weekends and during the dry, cooler months.

If you drive straight through, the journey takes about 2.5 hours. However, there are numerous spots to stop along the way, such as the Nam Tok Mae Sa, a picturesque tiered waterfall that’s great for swimming (though it can get busy), and the Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens, a vast and beautifully maintained area filled with exotic flowers. Expect to spend at least four hours. While you can take a car with a driver, the true appeal of this drive lies in the refreshing breeze and the stunning 360-degree views along the route.

You can rent scooters from various providers in Chiang Mai or consider joining an organized motorcycle tour of the loop.

Getting to the Samoeng Loop from Chiang Mai: Begin by heading north on Highway 107 towards Mae Rim, then take a left onto Highway 1096. This route will lead you up into the hills, where you’ll pass charming local restaurants, strawberry fields, and Royal Project agricultural sites, all offering breathtaking valley views before reaching the quaint village of Samoeng. Turn left onto Highway 1296 to begin your loop back to Chiang Mai.