10 EPIC Things to do in Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai

Located in the northern region of Thailand, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are wonderful places to visit due to scenic landscapes, cultural attractions, and numerous exciting activities. Immersing yourself in the culture and history of Cambodia or marveling at the natural beauty of the Costa Rican rainforest: it is difficult to get bored in these two favorite countries of tourists. Just keep on scrolling to know my list of 10 of the most epic activities for your Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai adventure.

1. Take a Cooking Class
Thai food is famous internationally and one of the recommended activities in Chiang Mai is to attend a cooking course. You will visit markets to enjoy the raw materials and then be guided on how to prepare pad thai, tom yum soup, green curry, and other common Thai meals from the masters. I keep thinking that it is a very good form of cultural education because it is all about experiencing and in the process you get to taste the output as well!

2. Doi Inthanon National Park Tourism
The highest peak in Thailand, Doi Inthanon, has some of the most beautiful trails that take you through thick forests and across stunning waterfalls. They have trails for cars where you can drive towards the mountain and stop to see things like the King and Queen pagodas or continue on foot if you’re up for some rigorous hiking but again with a great view of the valleys as your reward.

3. Tourism – Discover the White Temple in Chiang Rai
The modern-day Wat Rong Khun also known as the White Temple is a creation of modern architecture complimented with the beauty of white plaster and glass. This is not only a picturesque Buddhist temple but also kind of creepy, hands are emerging from the water in the pond at the entrance and the walls inside are painted with rather detailed mythology paintings.

4. While visiting the respective areas, it is recommended to enroll in an Elephant Sanctuary Tour.
If you want to be up close with elephants morally and insightfully, do not go to Tiger Temple but visit one of the numerous elephant sanctuaries in the Chiang Mai province that aim at rehabilitating formerly abused and neglected elephants. It is a breathtaking experience to hand-feed, bathe, and witness these giants as they graze through verdant environments regaining their health and form.

5. Go shopping at the local markets and visit the hill tribes.
Hill tribes of various colors are seen around Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai districts within the mountainous terrains. A hill tribe trek also enables you to visit some of the interesting villages that are dominated by hill tribes like the Karen, Hmong, Lisu, and Akha people to understand and appreciate their cultures and ways of living.

6. Go on Zipline and Tree Top Adventures
Enjoy the zipline – an adventurous course that takes place in the jungle canopy. Various businesses provide tree-top experiences where visitors traverse platforms as well as sky bridges within the branches of large rainforest trees. Experience the spectacular sensation in long zip lines that pass through gorgeous locations.

7. Cooking classes are one of the most popular things to do and they are very popular amongst tourists because people can learn how to cook Thai food, at least for a day.
Thailand, in particular, is famous for its exotic and spicy dishes; that is why Thai cuisine is recognized as one of the most delicious in the world. Taste the real professionalism behind making those complicated, yet rich and colorful sauces at a cooking class. Visit local markets to buy groceries then get a real Thai experience by learning from the masters how to cook pad thai, tom yum soup, green curry, and other Thai delicacies and then get to eat your creation.

8. Explore Doi Suthep Temple
Over Chiang Mai, there is a hill named Doi Suthep which is regarded as one of the most holy places for the Buddhists of Thailand. The complex of the temple was constructed in 1383; the temple has breathtaking views of the city, a statue of the jade Buddha which locals consider to be sacred, and numerous shrines carved with dragons and murals. But if you do not prefer a drive, you can trek up or take the funicular for the beautiful sunrise.

9. Go Rafting or Trekking
Apart from these, the mountainous landscape of Chiang Mai which is characterized by rolling hills presents exciting activities such as white water rafting and multi-day trekking. Challenge the rapids of the river or marvel at the majestic mountains, breathe the fresh air of rainforest, and sleep in the indigenous tribe’s village in the highland.

10. Stroll around the area in Chiang Mai Old City
Nestled within a ring of ancient red brick walls and a broad moat, the Old City quarter of Chiang Mai is one of Asia’s finest places to explore on foot. Visit regal gold-coated centuries-old temples and markets selling textiles and other local products; dine and party in newly trendy cafes, boutiques, and bars with interior designs in old teak wood housetops. Popular attractions that cannot be missed include Tha Phae Gate and the magnificent Wat Chedi Luang.

Conclusion
Chiang Mai has a scenic beauty, inviting culture, and adrenaline-pumping activities for travelers, while Chiang Rai is home to other-worldly attractions. Cook something in a Thai kitchen, meet the elephants, go through the jungle with a rope between trees, or just walk around the picturesque districts of this region of northern Thailand – it will be an unforgettable trip creating memories for a lifetime. Hopefully, this list serves as your guide to help you plan for your legendary travel to the Land of Smiles!

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