Best Chiang Mai City Tour: Viewpoint, Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang

Chiang Mai , Thailand

Best Chiang Mai City Tour: Viewpoint, Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang

Active

4h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Thailand’s second-largest city, Chiang Mai, was once the capital of an independent kingdom — a legacy reflected in its stunning temples and historic architecture. Discover its rich heritage on this convenient, door-to-door tour. Visit the iconic Tha Phae Gate, the ancient Wat Chedi Luang, and the serene Wat Pha Lat, nestled beside a stream. Take in breathtaking city views from the mountain-top temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Choose to explore in a small group or upgrade for a private experience.

• Discover Chiang Mai’s rich heritage at three temples and a city gate
• Enjoy panoramic city views from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
• Explore in a small group, or upgrade to a private tour for a personalized experience
• Hassle-free round-trip transfers from central Chiang Mai hotels
• Gain fascinating insights from a knowledgeable local guide

Available options

Private Tour

Private Tour<br/>Pickup included

Join Tour with Hotel Pick-up

Hotel pick-up in Chiang Mai<br/>Pickup included

Join Tour from Meeting Point

Pick up from meeting point

What's included

Transfer

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

English Speaking Guide

Wat Pha Lat

Admission Fees

Wat Chedi Luang

Detailed itinerary

08:00 AM – Pick-Up
Join Tour from Meeting Point: Sun Leisure World Office, located at Duang Tawan Hotel, Chiang Mai, Lobby Floor.
Join Tour with Hotel Pick-Up: Available for locations within the Old City or a 2 km radius of Sun Leisure World Chiang Mai.

Stop 2

This temple is the site of an enormous pagoda, originally 280 feet high, and was partially destroyed by an earthquake in 1545. At one time, Wat Chedi Luang housed the revered Emerald Buddha image now enshrined in Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaew. One of Wat Chedi Luang’s most striking architectural features is a magnificent Naga staircase adorns the chapel’s front.

Stop 3

It is a tremendous temple complex with a visual delight every time you turn your head. It is popular with the tour buses, but wait for the tour to move on and enjoy it. Give yourself plenty of time and you will not be disappointed.

This temple is the ancient precursor (lower on the mountain) than Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. While a little is less grand than it's the younger sibling, it is steep with history, reverence, and peace. Boasting beautiful views of the city of Chang Mai, it is built on a stream with a series of waterfalls. A terrific place for meditation or simple reflection.

Romantic, beautiful, and enchanting — these three words perfectly describe the experience of visiting one of Chiang Mai’s most historic landmarks, the Tha Phae Gate. Built when the city was founded by King Mangrai in 1296, this gate, along with others like Chang Puak, Chiang Mai, and Pratu Suan Dok, once served to protect the old city. Located on the eastern side, Tha Phae Gate is made of red brick and stands as a timeless symbol of Chiang Mai’s rich heritage.

Drop of at Chiang Mai Hotel/Duangtawan Hotel (Depending on the option selected by the tourists).

What's not included

Gratuities

Other Personal Expenses

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

TH EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For Join Tour from Meeting Point: Sun Leisure World Office, located at Duang Tawan Hotel, Chiang Mai, Lobby Floor.

For Hotel Pick-Up: Available for locations within the Old City or a 2 km radius of Sun Leisure World Chiang Mai.

This tour operates twice daily at 8 AM and 1 PM.

Hotel pick-up is only available for tourists who have selected the pick-up option during booking.

Please dress modestly when visiting the temples. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, and ensure your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect.

Please wear comfortable walking shoes

Meeting point

Join Tour from Meeting Point: Sun Leisure World Office, located at Duang Tawan Hotel, Chiang Mai, Lobby Floor.

About Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a historic and cultural hub in Northern Thailand, known for its ancient temples, vibrant night markets, and lush mountain surroundings. It offers a blend of traditional Lanna culture and modern amenities, making it a favorite destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

A stunning temple perched on a mountain with panoramic views of Chiang Mai. It's one of the most sacred temples in Thailand and a must-visit for its beauty and cultural significance.

Religious 2-3 hours 30 THB (1 USD) for foreigners

Old City

The historic heart of Chiang Mai, surrounded by ancient walls and moats. It's filled with temples, markets, and traditional Lanna-style buildings.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, individual temples may charge a small fee

Doi Inthanon National Park

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand,' this national park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Nature Full day 300 THB (9 USD) for foreigners, additional fees for specific attractions

Elephant Nature Park

A renowned elephant sanctuary offering ethical elephant encounters and rescue operations. Visitors can learn about elephant conservation and interact with these gentle giants.

Adventure Full day 2,500-5,000 THB (75-150 USD) depending on the program

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

A vibrant night market offering a wide variety of souvenirs, clothing, and street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and pick up unique gifts.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary for items and food

Must-Try Local Dishes

Khao Soi

A signature Northern Thai dish featuring egg noodles in a creamy curry broth, topped with crispy noodles and pickled mustard greens.

Dinner Contains meat (chicken or beef), gluten (noodles)

Sai Oua

A Northern Thai sausage made with minced pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime, and other aromatic spices.

Snack Contains pork, gluten (optional)

Som Tam

A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.

Snack Can be made vegetarian or with fish sauce

Popular Activities

Hiking in Doi Inthanon National Park Elephant trekking (at ethical sanctuaries) Zip-lining in the jungle Visiting spas and wellness centers Exploring temples and cultural sites Enjoying coffee at local cafes Attending traditional Thai dance performances Visiting local markets and shopping for handicrafts

Best Time to Visit

November to February (cool season)

This is the most popular time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-30°C (59-86°F) 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English (widely spoken in tourist areas)
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, Moderately spoken in other areas

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chiang Mai is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Chiang Mai International Airport • 3 km (2 miles) from city center

By train

Chiang Mai Railway Station

By bus

Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station, Chiang Mai Old Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Songthaews are converted pickup trucks with benches in the back. They follow specific routes and are a cheap and convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old City Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) Santitham

Day trips

Pai

135 km (84 miles) • Full day to overnight

A charming mountain town known for its laid-back atmosphere, hot springs, and scenic landscapes. Pai offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for hiking, visiting waterfalls, and exploring local markets.

Mae Kampong Village

35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

A picturesque hill tribe village known for its traditional way of life, lush surroundings, and warm hospitality. Mae Kampong offers a glimpse into the local culture and a chance to experience the simplicity of rural life.

Doi Inthanon National Park

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand,' this national park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Songkran Festival • April 13-15 (Thai New Year) Loy Krathong Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (November) Yi Peng Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (November, same as Loy Krathong)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to gain insights into the city's history and culture
Visit temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Explore the city's night markets and street food scene for an authentic and memorable experience
Try a traditional Thai massage or spa treatment for relaxation and rejuvenation