You know those places you look up while planning a trip and instantly feel excited about, because they just sound so cool and everyone seems to rave about them? For us, Chiang Mai was exactly that, and the hype didn’t disappoint. Best-known for its centuries-old temples, buzzing night markets, and laid-back vibe, Chiang Mai has become a favorite stop for travelers seeking more than just Thailand’s beaches. But beyond the evergreens like cozy cafés and trendy shops, Northern Thailand’s biggest city also offers plenty of unconventional experiences. From chatting with monks to getting a massage from ex-prisoners, there is something new to try for everyone.In this guide, we’ll share our top things to do in Chiang Mai, along with our favorite vegan-friendly spots and tips to help you make the most of your stay.
Introduction to Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, often called the “Rose of the North,” is Thailand’s second-largest city, but feels much smaller and more relaxed than Bangkok. Surrounded by lush mountains, waterfalls, and national parks, it’s the perfect base for exploring Northern Thailand’s natural beauty while still enjoying the comforts of a lively city. Founded in 1296 as the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai has a rich cultural heritage that can still be found in the Old City, traditional festivals, and hundreds of temples.
Today, Chiang Mai has become a hub for digital nomads, wellness seekers, and food lovers from around the world. The city is famous for its creative energy, cozy cafés, affordable living, and thriving vegan food scene, making it a top choice for travelers who want both cultural immersion and modern convenience.
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Top 10 Unique Things to do in Chiang Mai
Talk to A Monk
This was one of the activities we absolutely wanted to try as soon as we heard about it. Like in many parts of Thailand, Buddhism plays a central role in Chiang Mai’s daily life and culture. Here, you have the unique chance to learn more about this philosophy and meditation by actually talking to monks. We joined Monk Chat for a one-day meditation program to deepen our understanding of the practice. Master Phra KK has been leading these sessions for over 15 years, teaching with great passion, knowledge and humor. After exploring both the theory and practice of different meditation techniques, we had the opportunity to sit down with practicing monks, asking them questions about their life and beliefs, while they asked us about ours. It was a truly meaningful exchange where both sides learned a lot. If you’d like to go deeper, you can also join a two-day or multi-day Monk Chat meditation retreat in Chiang Mai.
Where: Monk Chat programs are usually held at Wat Suan Dok (about 15 minutes from the Old City).
Cost: Donations-based.
When: Walk-in Monk Chats happen daily in the afternoons; 1 day meditation programs happen on Fridays and need booking in advance.
Take a Cooking Class in Chiang Mai (Vegan Options Included)
Taking a cooking class while traveling is one of the best things to do to fully immerse yourself into a new culture. If you’re thinking about taking a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from! Many schools in the city can adapt their menus to vegan cooking, and, let’s be honest, Thai cuisine has many wonderful plant-based dishes. We joined Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School and had a really great time. Each of us got to pick six dishes, learned a lot about local herbs and spices, and were impressed by how delicious everything turned out.
Where: Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School, near the Old City.
Cost: Around 1,000 THB per half-day class, including a market visit and 6 dishes.
When: Morning and afternoon classes daily.
That said, because some participants in our group cooked with shrimp or chicken, it did put a slight damper on the experience and made us wish we had chosen a fully plant-based option. Still, our cooking instructor was very attentive: she carefully explained the ingredients, highlighted which sauces were free from oyster, fish, or shrimp; and made sure we always had vegan-friendly alternatives. Next time, though, we’d most likely go for an all-vegan or at least vegetarian cooking class in Chiang Mai.
Fully Vegan Cooking Schools in Chiang Mai- May Kaidee: Vegan Thai classics, also has locations in Bangkok.
- Bodhi Tree Café: 100% vegetarian with strong vegan options.
Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships
For something entirely different, step into the quirky and emotional Museum of Broken Relationships. Originally from Zagreb, this traveling concept has found a home in Chiang Mai, showcasing objects and stories donated by people from around the world. Each item represents a lost love or friendship, ranging from touching to funny, to downright bizarre. It’s a surprisingly moving visit that offers a glimpse into the universal ups and downs of human connections.
Where: Near Chiang Mai Old City.
Cost: Around 150 THB.
When: 10 am-6 pm daily.
Visit the Lanna Square Night Market
Chiang Mai’s night markets are legendary, and Lanna Square is one of the newer, more creative ones. Open mainly on weekends, it combines live music with plenty of food stalls, shops, and a mixed crowd of locals and tourists. What we loved most was the wide selection of vegan-friendly options: from falafel wraps and bao buns to churros, vegan Thai food, khao soi, desserts, and even plant-based ice cream. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy dinner while enjoying the music and dynamic atmosphere.
Where: Chang Klan Road, just south of the Old City.
Cost: Free to enter; street food from 50-150 THB.
When: Fridays-Sundays, 5 pm-11 pm.
Get a Massage by Female Prisoners
Getting a massage is a must-do in Thailand, but Chiang Mai adds an unusual twist. At the Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institution, female prisoners in rehabilitation programs are trained in traditional Thai massage. By getting a massage here, you not only enjoy a truly relaxing and professional treatment, but also support their reintegration into society. It’s a meaningful and one-of-a-kind experience, with all proceeds going back into the program.
Where: Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institution Vocational Training Center, within the Old City.
Cost: Around 250-400 THB for a 1-hour massage.
When: Daily, 8:30 am-4:30 pm.
Enjoy a Night Out at a Jazz Bar in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai also has a surprisingly vibrant jazz scene, making it a great option for a night out. After a day of temple-hopping or wandering through markets, you can relax with an evening drink and some soulful live music. One of the best spots is North Gate Jazz Co-Op, a favorite among both locals and travelers. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with spontaneous jam sessions and plenty of impressive talent on stage. Even if jazz isn’t usually your style, the energy in these bars is infectious and promises a memorable night out in Chiang Mai.
Where: North Gate Jazz Co-Op, near the Old City.
Cost: Drinks ~100-200 THB.
When: Evenings, 7 pm-midnight.
Visit the Sunday Walking Street & Get a Massage
If you’re looking for things to do in Chiang Mai at night, don’t miss the famous Sunday Walking Street Market. Every week, the old town transforms into an endless stretch of stalls selling handicrafts, clothes, souvenirs, and food. It’s one of the biggest and busiest night markets in Thailand, and – if you don’t mind the crowds -, a really fun experience. The food stands are mostly clustered in dedicated areas, but we have to admit that we were a bit disappointed. Vegan options were limited to a few Indian stalls and small snacks like fried sweet potatoes, sticky rice with mango, or pancakes. For a country with such naturally vegan-friendly cuisine, it was disheartening to see so many dishes centered around chicken, pork, or beef. We definitely preferred the food stalls at Lanna Square Night Market (mentioned above!). That said, the Sunday Walking Street Market is still worth a visit for the overall experience. And here’s another cool thing to do: along the way, especially near Tung Park, you’ll find small massage stalls where you can treat yourself to an affordable, authentic Thai massage right in the middle of the market buzz.
Where: Old City (Ratchadamnoen Road).
Cost: Free entry; food from 40-150 THB.
When: Sundays, 4 pm-10 pm.
Taste Vegan Food in Chiang Mai, Thailand’s Vegan Capital
Chiang Mai is often called the vegan capital of Thailand – and for good reason. The city offers everything from small, authentic Thai restaurants to trendy cafés serving smoothie bowls and even vegan pizzas. The choice really is endless. Some of our favorites, all 100% vegan, were Chada Vegetarian Restaurant, perfect for affordable and incredibly tasty local dishes, and Rad Rabbit, which leans more toward “westernized” comfort food. We talk more about our favorite restaurants and vegan food in Chiang Mai in this Guide to Being Vegan in Chiang Mai.
Quick Vegan Inspiration: 5 Dishes to Try in Chiang Mai- Khao Soi Jay: The northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup, in vegan form.
- Som Tam: Spicy green papaya salad (ask for no fish sauce).
- Pad See Ew: Stir-fried wide rice noodles with soy sauce and veggies.
- Gaeng Hang Lay (vegan version): Northern-style Burmese-influenced curry.
- Sticky Rice with Mango: A sweet must-try Thai classic.
And did you know that Chiang Mai even has completely vegan hotels? You can check them out here:
Join a Herbal Ball & Inhaler Workshop
If you’re interested in Thai wellness traditions, Chiang Mai is a fantastic place to try a Herbal Ball and Inhaler Workshop. These workshops introduce you to the world of natural remedies and aromatherapy in a hands-on way. You’ll learn how to craft your own herbal balls (small bundles of therapeutic herbs used in traditional Thai massages) as well as personalized herbal inhalers. And not only do you get to mix and blend the herbs yourself, but you’ll also discover their different healing properties, from soothing muscles to calming the mind. If you’d like to try it yourself, you can book the Herbal Ball and Inhaler Workshop via GetYourGuide here.
Where: Workshops available via GetYourGuide.
Cost: Around 1,000 THB.
When: Mornings & afternoons; book in advance.
Visit a Hands Off Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Around Chiang Mai
Many travelers come to Northern Thailand dreaming of seeing elephants, and it’s truly one of the most magical experiences around Chiang Mai. However, not all sanctuaries are as ethical as they claim. For a genuinely animal-friendly experience, choose a hands-off sanctuary, where elephants live freely without rides, baths or any other form of forced interactions. We spent a whole week at Elephant Nature Park and it was truly one of the most memorable experiences of our lives (read about it here!). Other ethical facilities around Chiang Mai include Mahouts Elephant Foundation, Chang Chill and Burm and Emily’s Elephant Sanctuary. Visitors observe the elephants from a respectful distance, learning about conservation and the challenges these gentle giants face. If you’re interested in visiting, but don’t find the time for it in Chiang Mai, here’s a list of other recommended places across Asia that are worth considering.
Where: Elephant Nature Park, Mae Rim District.
Cost: Day visit ~2,500 THB upwards; multi-day programs cost more.
When: Daily; book in advance.
Elephant Nature Park
Elephant Nature Park provides fully vegan meals for visitors, making it an ethical and vegan-friendly experience.
Bonus: Explore Beyond Chiang Mai – The Mae Hong Son Loop
If you have a few extra days, the Mae Hong Son Loop is a must-do Northern Thailand adventure. This scenic 3-5 day road trip starts from Chiang Mai and winds through misty mountains, charming villages, tea plantations and waterfalls, and offers the most beautiful views. Along the way, you can hike and experience authentic local culture and vegan food far off the usual tourist path. If this sounds interesting, read our full Mae Hong Son Loop itinerary here.
FAQ: Things to Do in Chiang Mai
What are the best things to do in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand’s cultural hub, offers a mix of cultural, culinary, wellness, and wildlife experiences. Top highlights include visiting temples, exploring night markets, taking a vegan cooking class, enjoying jazz bars, and visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries.
What are unique things to do in Chiang Mai?
Unique experiences include chatting with monks at Monk Chat, getting a massage from female prisoners, exploring the Museum of Broken Relationships, and joining a Herbal Ball & Inhaler Workshop. These activities provide cultural insight and hands-on experiences.
What can I do in Chiang Mai at night?
Nighttime activities include visiting Lanna Square Night Market for vegan-friendly food and live music, exploring Sunday Walking Street Market, and enjoying live jazz at North Gate Jazz Co-Op.
What are cheap or free things to do in Chiang Mai?
Free or budget-friendly activities include strolling through the Old City, visiting temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, exploring public parks, and wandering Chiang Mai’s many markets.
What are things to do in Chiang Mai old city?
The Old City is filled with temples, small cafés, boutique shops, and cultural centers. You can also join walking tours, explore local street art, or enjoy a vegan meal at one of the many nearby plant-based restaurants.
Are there cool or weird things to do in Chiang Mai?
Yes! Explore the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships, try unusual wellness workshops, or experience cultural exchanges with monks. Chiang Mai also offers unique market experiences and creative art spaces.
What are things to do in Chiang Mai during the rain?
During rainy days, focus on indoor activities like cooking classes, museums, wellness workshops, cafés, and cultural centers. Many markets also have covered areas, so you can still enjoy some local shopping without getting wet.
What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cool and dry season, from November to February, when temperatures are comfortable and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. The hot season (March to May) can be intense, while the rainy season (June to October) offers lush scenery but frequent showers. Keep this in mind when planning outdoor activities, markets, and temple visits.
Further Reading
Blog Articles
- Our Week of Volunteering at Elephant Nature Park
- Vegan in Thailand: Everything you need to know
- Vegan in Chiang Mai: Thailand’s Vegan Paradise
- The Mae Hong Son Loop Experience as a Vegan: Discover Thailand’s Stunning North
Useful Resources
About the Authors
Lynn & Daniel are the vegan couple behind VanderlustJourney, combining their passion for adventure and plant-based living. They share stories and visuals of natural places, hikes, vegan discoveries, and meaningful encounters from around the world – always striving to travel with kindness.
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✉️ Contact: vanderlustjourney@outlook.com
I’ve always wanted to visit Chang Mai and go to an elephant sanctuary.
The museum of broken relationships sounds like an interesting adventure. Great post!
Never even hear about this place but I’m always hearing about Bangkok. Now I’m always down to travel to eat and relax but a massage by prisoners may take some time for me to adapt to
Great list, and I’m so glad you included some food options. I often build my itinerary around food!
Same here 😀
Fantastic guide – thanks for sharing! My wife would love to try the herbal inhaler in Chiang Mai and speaking with a monk would be insightful. Never knew there was such place as the Museum of Broken Relationships – sounds interesting.
This sounds so interesting! I would love to visit Thailand and do some of these things.