Iconic Half-Day Landmarks & Temples of Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai , Thailand

Iconic Half-Day Landmarks & Temples of Chiang Mai

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(24 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Uncover the sacred soul of Chiang Mai in just half a day. This immersive temple trail takes you from majestic mountaintops to buzzing city markets and heart of ancient Lanna culture, offering essential introduction to The Rose of the North.

Begin with scenic drive up to 600-year-old Wat Doi Suthep, the city's most sacred temple near summit of Suthep Mountain. Climb magnificent Naga staircase of 306 steps to reach intriguing copper-plated Chedi topped by five-tier gold umbrella containing Buddha relics. Get magnificent views over Chiang Mai on clear days.

Descend to visit Wat Chedi Luang, once home to famous Emerald Buddha and still towering 60 meters high despite earthquake damage. Continue walking to Wat Phan Tao, ancient temple known for exquisite Lanna-style ordination hall entirely made of teakwood.

Conclude at Talat Warorot, city's biggest market where you dive into local life observing daily hustle and bustle. Professional guide and downtown hotel transfers included.

Available options

Afternoon Tour (25-26) Season

Pickup included

Morning Tour (25-26) Season

Pickup included

What's included

All applicable taxes and service charges

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver.

All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description.

A half day tour with a professional English-speaking guide.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Guests will meet your guide for this half-day tour in the lobby of any downtown accommodation in Chiang Mai before heading out to marvel at some of Chiang Mai’s most notable monuments. The journey commences driving out of the city centre towards one of the most sacred temples in the country. The 600-year-old temple of Wat Pra That Doi Suthep, near the summit of Suthep Mountain, has to be an unmissable stop for any serious Chiang Mai aficionado. After a drive up the mountain’s winding road, the final climb to the site is via a magnificent Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase of 306 steps. Inside is an intriguing copper-plated Chedi topped by a five-tier gold umbrella which contains partial relics of Lord Buddha. On a clear day, there are incomparable views over the city of Chiang Mai.

Stop 2

After descending via the serpentine road down to Chiang Mai and the continuation of our tour, we reach the holy grounds of the Wat Chedi Luang. Once the home of the famous Emerald Buddha, it has become of the more revered temples in Chiang Mai. This temple once possessed the tallest Chedi until an earthquake in the 15th century toppled the upper section. Today, it still towers 60 meter high.

Then, continue by walking to Wat Phan Tao, an ancient temple is known for its exquisite Lanna-style ordination hall entirely made of teakwood, it is one of the few remaining all wooden structures of its sort in Chiang Mai.

Stop 4

The last stop is made at Talat Warowod, the city’s biggest market. A beehive of trade, it is located in the heart of the city and has long been favoured for its hustle and bustle. Particularly the wet market section is favoured where fresh fruits and vegetables in season form a colourful palette.

After leaving the market, we head back to your downtown hotel.

What's not included

Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees

Supplements for pick-up/drop-off of customers from resorts outside Chiang Mai city

Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.

Compulsory Christmas, country-specific festival and/or New Year dinner at included hotels

Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point

Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is operated both on private basis as well as on joint / Seat-In-Coach basis. Joint tours are operated with an English-speaking guide only.

Transfers are only operated within the downtown Chiang Mai areas and restricted to main hotels only. Regions outside the central business district such as Mae Rim, Hang Dong, Doi Saket, Mae Taeng and Chiang Mai International Airport are excluded and supplementary charges apply.

To respect local customs and respecting the religious sites and temples on this tour, it is customary for guests to take off their shoes before allowed entrance. Your guide will inform you in advance for which of these sites this is applicable.

Royal temples and palaces uphold a very strict dress code: it is essential that you dress appropriately during this excursion by wearing clothes that cover shoulders and fall below the knees.

Customers wearing shirts with obscene and disrespectful prints and pictures and brightly-coloured clothing may be refused entrance.

We always will make efforts to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.

Please note pickup and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop off.

Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It is the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this.

Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sunrays still have an immense power.

It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request.

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

Important notes

- Please contact Asian Trails at least 72 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation. Changes within 24 hours may be on request.
- Pick-up times for excursions will be reconfirmed one day prior to commencement of your booked excursion. As an indication, the pick-up time from your accommodation is scheduled 30-60 minutes prior to the confirmed starting time.
- Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minute prior to your scheduled pick up time.
- Upon pickup, please present your confirmation/voucher or photo ID in exchange for your activity.

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

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