One of the pleasures of Chiang Mai is that the countryside begins almost at the edge of town. Mountains, waterfalls, forest trails and hill villages are all within reach, and most day trips include hotel pick-up, which takes the stress out of the driving. Here is how the options compare, so you can choose the ones that suit your time and energy.
Doi Suthep, a half day
The hilltop temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the closest big sight, about a half-day outing. The gilded chedi, the views over the valley and the long naga staircase make it one of the most visited temples in the north. Go early for cooler air and clearer views and dress modestly. If you would rather earn the view, a hike and downhill bike outing on the same mountain takes about four hours and mixes forest walking with a fun ride back down.
Doi Inthanon, a full day
Doi Inthanon National Park holds Thailand's highest summit, at 2,565 metres, and a day tour takes about eight hours. Typical stops are waterfalls, the pair of royal pagodas, forest walks, a hill-tribe village and a coffee farm, and the summit is often much cooler than Chiang Mai, so bring a layer. It is the best choice for scenery lovers and for anyone who has already seen enough temples.
A sticky waterfall, a full day
The Bua Tong sticky waterfall is unusual because the limestone has a rough, grippy surface, so you can walk up the cascading rock barefoot. The day trip takes eight to nine hours, with stops at Wat Ban Den and the Dantewada scenic area on the way. It is good fun for families and active travellers, but wear swimwear or quick-dry clothes and shoes you can carry. The waterfall is at its best when there is a steady flow, and conditions change with the season.
A no-riding elephant sanctuary, about five hours
For many travellers, an elephant visit is the highlight of the trip, and the choice of place matters. Choose a sanctuary where there is no riding and no performances, where you feed, walk and watch the elephants and learn about their care. The half-day format fits easily around other plans, and it works for families with children who are comfortable around large animals. Wear clothes that can get muddy.
Adventure days
If you want something faster, the Kingkong Smile Zipline takes about three hours through forested valleys, and the ATV, waterfall and bamboo rafting adventure takes about six and a half hours. Both suit teenagers and adults who want a break from temples. Follow the safety briefing, wear closed shoes and tell the guides about any health conditions.
Chiang Rai and the White Temple, about eleven hours
The White Temple, Wat Rong Khun, is a contemporary, dazzling white temple covered in mirrored mosaic and surreal sculpture, about three hours north by road. A day trip from Chiang Mai is long, with early starts and a late return, so it suits travellers who are especially keen on art and architecture. If you can spare the time, an overnight in Chiang Rai makes it far more relaxed, and our Chiang Rai guides cover the area in more depth.
Choosing and combining
For a first trip of three to five days, pair Doi Inthanon or Doi Suthep with an elephant sanctuary, and add Chiang Rai only if the temple is on your must-see list. Avoid stacking two long days back to back, because the roads are winding and the heat tires you out. Cooler months make every outdoor trip easier, while the rainy season gives you fuller waterfalls but muddier trails.
What about Pai and the other towns?
Some travellers also consider the mountain town of Pai, which sits several hours away along a road with hundreds of bends, or smaller towns around the region. They are rewarding but they are overnight trips rather than day trips, so keep them for a longer stay and spend your first days on the options above, which are all comfortable to do in a day with hotel pick-up.
Practical tips
Book a day or two ahead in the cool season, check the pick-up time with your hotel and bring cash for entry fees and small purchases. Carry water, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent, and wear sturdy sandals or trainers. If you get travel sick, take a seat near the front and mention it to your driver before the mountain roads begin.
