Cecelia ChangDoes a therapeutic trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand sound appealing to you? Aside from the mouthwatering delicacies and cultural heritage, there are so many underrated natural attractions in this beautiful destination in Thailand that are worth exploring. For your upcoming vacation, visit Chiang Mai and be amazed by the natural beauty and rejuvenating activities it offers!
Also read: 12 Airbnbs in Chiang Mai for Every Kind of Traveller
10 Must-visit natural attractions in Chiang Mai
1. Doi Inthanon National Park
Image credit: Thai National Parks Official Website
Google the word Chiang Mai and you’ll probably stumble upon a gorgeous picture of the Doi Inthanon National Park. Not only is it an icon of Chiang Mai, but it is also one of the most popular parks in Thailand! The park covers an area of 482 square kilometres and is part of the Himalayan mountain range. Home to the highest mountain in the country, Doi Inthanon Mountain, the park offers visitors the chance not only to enjoy a respite from the hot weather, but also to enjoy the sight of sea mist from various viewpoints throughout the park.
As you stroll about, you’ll find a magnificent view of the Royal Twin Pagodas, stumble across waterfalls, as well as spot wildlife in the park. This Chiang Mai attraction is also one of the best sunset and sunrise viewing spots in the province. The entrance fees applicable to foreigners are 300฿ (~US$8.60, S$11.50) for adults and 150฿ (~US$4.30, S$5.70) for children aged three to 14 years old.
2. San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
Image credit: SK Hot Springs Official Website
How about a healing day at the hot springs? The San Kamphaeng Hot Spring is another amazing natural escape in Chiang Mai. Apart from having mineral baths, swimming pools, and a Thai massage spa, this place is also an IG-worthy spot, popular amongst both locals and tourists. There’s a huge flower garden, a kid’s playground, and some picture-taking spots filled with colourful dried wheat grass. You can also opt to stay overnight at the guestroom or the camping ground for a comprehensive and therapeutic experience.
3. Mae Kampong
Image credit: Salinee Chot
Nestled in mountains and forests, Mae Kampong is a tranquil village in Chiang Mai. This hidden gem has only a population of around 500 people, with a cooling and humid weather all year round. The tranquility, beautiful mountain scenery, and serene waterfalls make this place one of the best natural attractions in the province.
Aside from offering a soothing retreat, Mae Kampong is also home to tea, rice, and coffee plantations. Tourists can take part in tea-making activities, or purchase traditional handicrafts from the locals. There’s also a zipline for adventurous travellers, as well as an old temple called Kanta Prueksa Temple located in the village.
4. Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm
Image credit: Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm Official Facebook Page
Situated in a serene natural setting, Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm is a vibrant botanical garden that will brighten both your day and your Instagram feed. The gardens are filled with an array of stunning orchid varieties, butterflies, as well as other plants and flowers, making it not only an ideal spot for picture-taking but also a wonderful place to escape to the tranquillity of nature. There is also Bai Orchid Cafe in the area for you to stop by and have a sip of coffee once you’ve done touring around.
5. Bo Kaeo Pine Tree Garden
Image credit: Stella_E via CanvaPro
This natural attraction in Chiang Mai will make you feel as if you’ve entered an exquisite movie scene. Bo Kaeo Pine Tree Garden offers another refreshing retreat that showcases the beauty of pine trees, as the name suggests. Visitors can stroll through the rows of tall pine trees while taking in the rejuvenating landscape. Common activities here include picnicking, cycling, and jogging. Here, you can even say hi to cute animals like cats, dogs, and buffaloes!
6. Doi Ang Khang
Image credit: kitchakron via CanvaPro
Forget about Japan when you want to view cherry blossoms, because this place is home to these dazzling pink flowers too! Doi Ang Khang and its royal agricultural station is situated in Chiang Mai, Thailand which borders Myanmar and stands at 1,400 meters above sea level. Adorned with lush forests and colourful floral gardens, this Chiang Mai attraction provides a scenic escape from bustling urban life. The myriad of flowers, mountains, and valleys here makes it a haven for nature lovers and avid photographers.
7. Ob Khan National Park
Image credit: Tourism Authority of Thailand Official Website
Spanning an area of around 484 square kilometres, Ob Khan National Park is another must-visit destination for a healing trip in Chiang Mai. Made of limestone and igneous rock mountains, this place is not only a sightseeing destination, but also a hotspot for camping, hiking, and picnicking. Though the water is cloudy sometimes due to the rainy weather, it doesn’t stop visitors from coming here and getting close to nature. And yes, you can swim in the river to escape from the heat!
As of the time of writing, the natural trail and camping ground in Ob Khan National Park is undergoing seasonal closure from 15 June until 30 October. Nevertheless, you can still visit the park’s cafe, restaurant, visitor centre, and picnic area.
8. Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park
Image credit: pornchaipic via CanvaPro
Another national park in Chiang Mai Province, Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park is an incredible hidden gem that offers free admission. More than just jungle trails though, this place is actually famous for its Sticky Waterfalls, aka the Bua Thong Waterfalls which will leave you awestruck.
Unlike any other waterfalls you’ve been to, you can actually stand on the rocks without slipping! This is because the minerals in the water provide a good grip on the rocks. Aside from this peculiar trait, the rocks also have a unique look which makes another attractive point. Get your camera ready and capture the wonders this place has to offer.
9. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
Image credit: Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket Official Facebook Page
At the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai, you can fully immerse yourself in fun experiences like bathing, feeding, and taking cute pictures with the elephants. The tour guide here will also educate visitors about elephant conservation. As an ethical and sustainable eco-tourism project, the sanctuary rescues and provides care to the elephants.
Besides, you can also opt for a package deal which includes services like picking up and dropping off at your accommodation as well as local buffet meals.
P.S. You may get splashed when you interact with the elephants, so do prepare extra clothes for changing.
10. FlyingBird: Paramotor Chiang Mai
Image credit: FlyingBird : Paramotor Official Facebook Page
What about a trip in the sky and experiencing the beauty of Chiang Mai from a bird’s eye view? Create awesome memories by going on a paramotor, a thrilling sport that combines paragliding with a small powered engine. FlyingBird is one of the paramotor experience providers where you get to soar through the skies while admiring the enchanting greenery of the city.
The ride usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes, and the fee depends on the package you select. While you’re here, don’t miss out on this fun experience that will for sure leave you with a wonderful memory!
Also read: Thai Street Food Guide: 12 Best Things to Eat & What to Expect
Chiang Mai is calling! These are the best natural attractions in Chiang Mai that allow you to fully recharge and relax. If you have already explored other famous Thailand destinations like Bangkok and Phuket, you would definitely enjoy Chiang Mai too!
Brought to you by Tourism Authority of Thailand
