Northern Thailand · TOURS

The 15 Best Tours & Day Trips in Chiang Mai

150 tours  ·  from $13

Everything with a guide, a songthaew or a minibus attached, in one list. The 15 below are worth clearing a day for, priced and timed, with the rest of the catalogue underneath.

Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park Eco-Friendly Tour - The mountain drive and what it means for your day
Doi Inthanon Day Trips, National Parks, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park Eco-Friendly Tour

1.Doi Inthanon National Park Eco-Friendly Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 6,667 reviews · 9 hours · from $46Our pick

Spend nine hours exploring Doi Inthanon with an English, French, Spanish, or Japanese-speaking guide. Visit Thailand’s highest point, the Ang Ka boardwalk, Twin Pagodas, Wachirathan Waterfall, and a Hmong village for locally grown coffee. Pickup, park fees, and small-group options vary.

“Wonderful day, seeing a part of Thailand we didn’t know about. Beautiful eco forest, waterfalls and gardens. Particularly enjoyed meeting, learning about and seeing the Karen Tribe villagers at work. Thoroughly recommend”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Group Tour - Meeting rescued elephants at Pon Elephant Thailand
Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary Visits, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Group Tour

2.Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Group Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 5,780 reviews · 7 hours · from $50

Spend about three hours at Pon Elephant Thailand learning each rescued elephant’s story, feeding them bamboo, walking beside them, and cooling them in the river. After lunch, hike to Mae Wang Waterfall. English guides such as Beer, Yaya, Nop, and Amy are praised for clear explanations and warm help.

“Our guide Sunny was really friendly, spoke english well and told us the story about the elephants living in the sanctuary and how they treat them with medicine etc. The elephants were also friendly and calm and it was a great experience to play with them. The food that the locals cook was really nice and we even got to meet the lady who‘s the owner of the whole sanctuary”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Mai: Cooking Class, Market & Thai Herbs Garden Tour - Starting at the local market
Chiang Mai Thai Cooking Classes, Cooking Classes, Markets, Tour Reviews, Tours, Workshops

Chiang Mai: Cooking Class, Market & Thai Herbs Garden Tour

3.Cooking Class, Market & Thai Herbs Garden Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 4,824 reviews · 3h 30m · from $31

Join Thai Cottage Home Cookery School for a 210-minute class with hotel pickup, a local market visit, and cooking in an organic herb garden. Guides such as Wave, Flook, Tu, Kat, and Balloon help you prepare several dishes, curry paste, and mango sticky rice.

“Amazing cooking class with Mew. Amazing communication, great ingredients & fun cooking. Highly recommend this cooking class if you’re in Chiang Mai.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary Feeding Program Half-Day Tour - Meeting the elephants and learning the ground rules
Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary Visits, Half-Day, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary Feeding Program Half-Day Tour

4.Elephant Sanctuary Feeding Program Half-Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 4,527 reviews · 5 hours - 330 minutes · from $27

Spend about five hours at Pon Elephant Thailand, south of Mae Wang, feeding elephants, preparing herbal treats, and walking through their forest habitat. Guides such as Pat, Toto, Jackie, and Tuto explain elephant care, while river bathing happens only if the elephants choose it.

“A truly unforgettable experience. This tour made me fall in love elephants even more and it was great to see them in their own habitat with tonnes of space and freedom. None of the interactions felt forced (feeding and getting in the water with them) and felt like an actual ethical elephant sanctuary as many are branded as them but aren’t. Booking was easy, meeting point straight forward to find. Bit of a delay in leaving but the transport was clean, comfortable and spacious. I liked that we were in a small group (7 I think) and the drive took about an hour. We learnt the basics about Thailand on…”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Rai White Temple and Blue Temple Day Tour - The long road from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai Day Trips, Chiang Rai White and Blue Temple Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Rai White Temple and Blue Temple Day Tour

5.Chiang Rai White Temple and Blue Temple Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 3,366 reviews · from $27

Travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai in an air-conditioned van with a guide such as Avi, Banana, or Sunni. Visit the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Temple of Light, with a coffee break and lunch stop. Expect a long but well-organized day, plus time to explore each temple independently.

“Our guide Wasta was an amazing guide. He had a lot of knowledge about the temples and even though the trip was long he made very smooth and entertaining. I highly recommend this tour was full of culture and the food at the buffet was delicious. We love Thailand and its people they are very warm and welcoming. Thank you!”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Mai: White, Red/Black & Blue Temples Tour with Lunch - The road from Chiang Mai to Mae Kachan Hot Spring
Chiang Rai White and Blue Temple Tours, Lunch Experiences, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Mai: White, Red/Black & Blue Temples Tour with Lunch

6.White, Red/Black & Blue Temples Tour with Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 · 2,017 reviews · 12 hours · from $33

Travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai by air-conditioned van for Wat Rong Khun, the Blue Temple, Huay Pla Kang Temple, and Baan Dam Museum, with lunch and a guide. Expect a 12-hour day, about six hours on the road, and an optional Karen village visit.

“Our trip was amazing, guide was super nice and she told us everything in detail. The places we visited are magical and a must have. Also the food provided was sooooo good, we didn't know what to start with first. Overall fantastic trip.”

Check availability →Read our full review

From Chiang Mai: Elephant Care Program and Nursery Tour - The one-hour ride from Chiang Mai to Mae Tang
Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary Visits, Tour Reviews, Tours

From Chiang Mai: Elephant Care Program and Nursery Tour

7.Elephant Care Program and Nursery Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 1,899 reviews · 5 - 6 hours · from $53

Spend 5 to 6 hours at Elephant Retirement Park Chiang Mai with a live English-speaking guide. Feed rescued elephants, prepare medicine balls, follow them to the mud and sand spa, and help wash them. Guides such as Francesco, Tin, and Disney bring strong elephant knowledge, while lunch and hotel transfers are included.

“Can’t recommend it enough! The guides are super helpful from answering questions, to taking pictures & encouraging everyone to get stuck in. Being up close with the elephants is truly amazing. The bath especially was a highlight, getting splashed by the elephants was something I’ll never forget. I was also super pleased to see that pictures has been taken of my experience and I was able to view them all before I purchased. The money from the tour/photo purchases goes straight back into elephant care which I really loved Facilities were fab however I’d emphasise reading the packing list before you come. The majority of my group ended up not…”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep and Wat Umong Enchanting Evening Tour - Wat Umong and its forest meditation setting
Chiang Mai Temple Tours, Doi Suthep Temple Tours, Evening Experiences, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep and Wat Umong Enchanting Evening Tour

8.Doi Suthep and Wat Umong Enchanting Evening Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,811 reviews · 5 hours · from $27

Visit Wat Umong’s forest tunnels, then climb 309 steps to Doi Suthep for sunset, monk chanting, and Chiang Mai’s lights. A guide such as TomTam, Boon, or Happy adds cultural context, while small groups, glass water bottles, and optional hotel pickup keep the evening easy.

“I really apprieciate buddism history told by the guide”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Mai: 3 Hour Old City and Temples Guided Walking Tour - Wat Phan Tao and the appeal of a smaller temple
3-Hour Experiences, Chiang Mai Old City Walking Tours, Chiang Mai Temple Tours, City Tours, Guided, Tour Reviews, Tours, Walking Tours

Chiang Mai: 3 Hour Old City and Temples Guided Walking Tour

9.3 Hour Old City and Temples Guided Walking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,568 reviews · 3 hours · from $16Best value

Walk Chiang Mai’s Old City with an English-speaking local guide, visiting Wat Chedi Luang, teak-built Wat Phan Tao, and lavish Wat Phra Singh. Guides such as Nana, Sunny, TomTam, and Popcorn are praised for clear history, humor, meditation tips, and helpful photos.

“Nuttata is a really great tour guide. I learned a lot about Chiang Mai and thai people as well as buddhism :)”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep, Wat Umong, and Pha Lat Sunrise Tour - Learning Buddhism with the guide
Chiang Mai Temple Tours, Doi Suthep Temple Tours, Morning, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep, Wat Umong, and Pha Lat Sunrise Tour

10.Doi Suthep, Wat Umong, and Pha Lat Sunrise Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,425 reviews · 4 hours · from $32

Start before dawn with a guide such as James, a former monk, or Nuttaya, then climb 309 steps to Doi Suthep for sunrise. Visit the Kruba Srivichai Monument, walk through the forest to Wat Pha Lat, and explore Wat Umong’s tunnels. Expect a small-group setting, temple etiquette, and a possible 5-hour morning.

“James was so amazing!!!! He taught us all the basics of Buddhism which I had never learned and they were patient when my partner and I showed up a few minutes late.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Mai: Sticky Waterfall & Angel Waterfall Park Day Tour - Angel Waterfall Park: a polished start to the day
Chiang Mai Sticky Waterfall Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Mai: Sticky Waterfall & Angel Waterfall Park Day Tour

11.Sticky Waterfall & Angel Waterfall Park Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 1,371 reviews · 6 - 8 hours · from $41

Travel from Chiang Mai to Dan Tewada Land of Angels and Bua Thong Sticky Waterfall in 6 to 8 hours. Expect a photo-filled garden, cool pools, a climbable waterfall, hotel transfers, bottled water, and guides such as Avi, Nine, Lily, or Amy.

“Avi was amazinggg! Super entertaining, funny, and helpful! Felt very taken care of throughout the trip and it was an enjoyable trip! Would definitely recommend!”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Rai Temples: Private Tour from Chiang Mai - The three-hour ride from Chiang Mai
Chiang Rai Day Trips, Private, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Rai Temples: Private Tour from Chiang Mai

12.Chiang Rai Temples: Private Tour from Chiang Mai

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,267 reviews · from $144Top rated

Spend about 13 hours visiting Wat Rong Khun, Wat Sang Kaew Phothiyan, Wat Rong Seur Ten, and Wat Huay Pla Kang from Chiang Mai. A private guide such as O, Yut, Tong, or Poon handles the long drive, temple explanations, photos, rest stops, lunch, and hotel transfers.

“Fantastic day and a tour I would highly recommend if you’re looking to visit the Chiang Rai temples in comfort and at your own pace. Our guide, Pom, and our driver, Chan, were excellent. We were picked up from our hotel at 7am, and the minivan was very comfortable — wide seats, plenty of leg room, and a smooth ride, which made the long journey very pleasant. The tour closely followed the itinerary, and Pom was knowledgeable at each stop. He provided just the right amount of information and was always happy to answer our questions when we wanted more detail. He also helped with photos and with buying souvenirs,…”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Mai: Wat Pha Lat & Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Tour - Wat Pha Lat, Chiang Mai’s forest temple
Chiang Mai Temple Tours, Doi Suthep Temple Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Mai: Wat Pha Lat & Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Tour

13.Wat Pha Lat & Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 1,207 reviews · 4h 30m · from $24

Spend an evening with an English-speaking guide at Chiang Mai’s forested Wat Pha Lat and sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Expect a comfortable van, 306 steps, sunset city views, Buddhist rituals, and time to explore. Guides such as Tomtam, Mui, Art, and Ponpon are praised for clear explanations and thoughtful photo help.

“Everything was well organised and our guide Yuthana was very friendly and funny! He made the evening unforgettable. Both the Hidden Temple as well as Doi Suthep (and from there the view over Chiangmai) are very much worth to see!”

Check availability →Read our full review

3-in-1: Doi Inthanon Tour, Elephant Sanctuary, and Trekking Trail - Meeting rescued elephants at Living Green Foundation
Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary Visits, Chiang Mai Jungle Trekking Tours, Doi Inthanon Day Trips, Hiking & Trekking, Tour Reviews, Tours

3-in-1: Doi Inthanon Tour, Elephant Sanctuary, and Trekking Trail

14.3-in-1: Doi Inthanon Tour, Elephant Sanctuary, and Trekking Trail

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,087 reviews · from $48

Leave Chiang Mai at 7 a.m. for an ethical elephant sanctuary, Doi Inthanon’s summit and royal pagodas, then hike the Pha Dok Seaw trail to a waterfall and coffee-growing village. Guides such as John, Jon, Rainbow, Note, and Sandy have earned praise for clear explanations and warm service.

“Very enjoyable full day tour beginning with a visit to Living Green Elephant Sanctuary. Two tour groups combine together (approximately 24 people total) to feed the elephants and follow them to the river. Delicious lunch (vegetarian Pad Thai) aRead more”

Check availability →Read our full review

Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour - Meeting elephants at New Elephant Home
Chiang Mai Bamboo Rafting Trips, Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary Visits, Tour Reviews, Tours

Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour

15.Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 870 reviews · from $58

Spend about eight hours visiting Bua Tong Waterfall, New Elephant Home, and a bamboo rafting camp near Chiang Mai. Guides such as Paul, Fluke, and Mr. Poppy lead the day, with time for waterfall climbing, elephant care, lunch, and a quiet river ride.

“Amazing experience! Mr. Poppy was great. Informative and hilarious. Couldn't have asked for a better guide. Seeing how happy and well cared for the elephants were really made the experience special. Highly recommended.”

Check availability →Read our full review

New in Tours

★ 4.8History & Mouth Watering Food TourFrom $6712 reviews
★ 4.8Hike on Monk’s Trail and Doi Suthep Private TourFrom $5722 reviews
★ 4.9Half Day Evening Cooking Class with Market TourFrom $3519 reviews
★ 5.0Chiang Mai Fields of Gold Cycling TourFrom $646 reviews
★ 5.0Evening Foodie TourFrom $423 reviews
★ 4.3Doi Suthep & Wat Umong OR Wat Pha Lat Night TourFrom $405 reviews
★ 5.0Doi Suthep Temple Guided TourFrom $285 reviews
★ 4.6Doi Suthep Temple & Hmong Village TourFrom $2215 reviews
★ 3.5Doi Inthanon National Park Sightseeing TourFrom $643 reviews
★ 4.0Doi Inthanon National Park and Kew Mae Pan TourFrom $619 reviews
★ 4.8Cook in Farm, Market tour & Go by a Local TrainFrom $576 reviews
★ 3.5City Sightseeing Tour by Tuk Tuk3 reviews
★ 4.2Chiang Rai White, Blue & Black Temples Day TourFrom $5416 reviews
★ 4.4Chiang Mai Bar Hopping Guided Night TourFrom $3517 reviews
★ 4.5Customize Your Own Chiang Mai City TourFrom $9414 reviews

Keep browsing

Chiang Mai Temple Tours59Chiang Mai Thai Cooking Classes45Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary Visits44Doi Inthanon Day Trips39Chiang Rai Day Trips30Chiang Mai Old City Walking Tours9
Scroll to Top

Explore Chiang Mai

Pick a mountain, a market or a kitchen.

Temples

Wats in the Old CityDoi SuthepWhite & Blue TemplesMonk ChatThe Monk Trail

In the hills

Doi InthanonBua Thong FallsJungle TreksChiang DaoMae Kampong

Food and markets

Cooking ClassesStreet FoodMarketsFood & DrinkFarm Visits

Out and about

Elephant CampsCyclingZiplinesWhite WaterTuk-Tuk Runs