Top 5 Day Trips from Chiang Mai

1. Doi Inthanon

Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak, is a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the city for stunning mountain views. The drive from Chiang Mai is scenic, with winding roads that reveal lush forests and cascading waterfalls along the way. I love starting early in the morning to catch the misty valleys and maybe even a rainbow at Wachirathan Waterfall. Once at the summit, the views are breathtaking (if you are lucky with the clouds), with rolling mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. Walking around the park, exploring the trails, and visiting the pagodas makes it easy to spend a full day here. Check out the Fern forest too for a really special experience!

2. Mae Kampong

Mae Kampong is a charming mountain village famous for its peaceful atmosphere, waterfalls, and traditional homestays. I usually spend the morning wandering through the village, enjoying the smell of local coffee and visiting small tea shops. The drive to Mae Kampong takes you through beautiful countryside roads, and once there, you can relax by the river, hike to nearby waterfalls, or simply enjoy the tranquil pace of life. It’s the perfect day trip if you want to experience authentic northern Thai village life. There is also a hot spring, half way there.

3. Doi Suthep

Doi Suthep is famous for the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple, perched high on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai. I like to start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the morning views of the city below. The temple itself is stunning, with golden spires, intricate carvings, and colorful stairways. After visiting the temple, I usually take a short hike along the nearby trails, enjoying the forested surroundings before heading back to Chiang Mai. It’s a mix of cultural and natural beauty in one day. I love to bring my camera there to take photos of insects, mushrooms and statues.

4. Huay Tung Tao Lake

Huay Tung Tao Lake is a favorite for a relaxed day trip close to the city. The large lake is surrounded by mountains and bamboo huts, creating a peaceful environment perfect for picnics, paddle boating, or just lounging by the water. I often stop at one of the local restaurants serving grilled fish and traditional Thai dishes while enjoying the view. It’s a low-key trip but very refreshing, especially on hot days.

5. Chiang Dao

Chiang Dao is known for its limestone mountains, caves, and serene countryside. The highlight is Chiang Dao Cave, a massive limestone cave complex filled with stalactites and Buddha statues. I like to explore the cave in the morning and then spend the afternoon driving through the countryside, stopping at small temples and villages along the way. It’s a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect full-day escape from Chiang Mai.

Tip #1: When you are inside the cave, you can pay a small amount to go a bit deeper into the cave. This is highly worth it.

Tip #2: There is a really good restaurant in Chiang Dao called The Cojon. Their shrimps are incredible! Google Maps