Chiang Mai is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and historically significant destinations. It’s the largest city in Northern Thailand and is known for its stunning temples, unique street art and traditional cultures. A visit to Chiang Mai is an absolute must when travelling to Thailand, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly experience or looking to splurge on accomodation and tours, there’s plenty to explore and experience while in this culturally-rich city. While Chiang Mai is great for getting lost in narrow alleyways, admiring the intricate details of ancient dois (temples), and eating delicious Thai food at the bustling local cafés or markets, there’s also plenty of activities for those passionate about the outdoors, nature, and sustainability. I visited Chiang Mai back in 2015 as part of a vegan festival, and between meeting like-minded travellers and learning with one another, Chiang Mai offered plenty of great activities and opportunities for learning.
Marvel at Majestic Elephants
Riding an elephant is often seen as a thrilling tourist attraction in Thailand, but the reality is that this ancient practice of riding these majestic animals is anything but ethical. From wild capture to training methods involving hooks and spears, the animal welfare implications are tremendous. Not only this, but they are forced to bear an uncomfortable burden on their backs with no consideration for their skeletal structure. Elephant rides can cause serious injuries resulting in immense suffering for these gentle creatures; never mind the psychological damage done due to their confinement and mistreatment. Instead of riding elephants, those who want to visit them should instead look for a certified sanctuary where you can observe and interact with the elephants in a more humane and respectful way.
If you have ever wanted to see an elephant up close, Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand is the perfect spot! The park is committed to providing exceptional care and a safe haven for dozens of beautiful Asian elephants, formerly mistreated by the logging or tourist industry. Here, you can marvel at these majestic creatures in an ethical and respectful way—observing them as they take part in conservation exercises such as swimming and playing football, exploring their natural habitats as they roam freely around the park and observing their social interactions with each other. What makes this particular experience so unique is that visitors have the opportunity to truly capture a glimpse of these animals’ amazing lives without compromising their wellbeing.
Learn about Recycling Elephant Poop
Visiting the Elephant PooPooPaper Park in Chiang Mai is an experience you won’t soon forget! This interactive, educational park educates visitors about the process of making paper from elephant dung. Not only will you learn about this ingenious method of sustainability, but you’ll also get to take a tour of an actual paper-making facility and even create your own souvenir piece using PooPooPaper! You’ll leave with an appreciation for how creative problem solving can turn something thought of as waste into something truly unique and beautiful. Plus, you’ll be supporting a cause that helps give work to local villagers.
Hike up to Doi Suthep
Hiking up Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai is an experience you won’t forget! Although it’s not a trek for the faint of heart, it is completely worth it when you reach the top and are rewarded with stunning views of the nearby city. Prepare yourself for the pilgrimage with a hearty snack and strong sunscreen – it’s an upwards journey that will take around one to two hours, depending on your level of fitness. To make sure you don’t miss any spots, join a guided tour – they can tell you all about the history of Doi Suthep and also stop at some of the area’s temples. If you miss out on them during your hike, be sure to check out Wat Phra That Doi Suthep further down in town. Whether solo or with friends, this is definitely one adventure worth adding to your itinerary!
Explore the Limestone Quarry
Visiting the Chiang Mai quarry is another unique experience. The striking limestone formations offer an exciting view of the nearby Doi Inthanon mountain range, making it a great spot for nature lovers and photographers alike. It’s also perfect for taking a leisurely hike, as the terrain is mostly flat and easy walking. Although you might expect the typical limestone quarries to be dry and dusty, it’s surprisingly lush here with plenty of vegetation to discover. When you arrive in June, make sure to pay attention to the festival of lights that takes place every year on full moon days. A visit to this special place will undoubtedly leave you with lasting memories!
Climb the Sticky Waterfalls
Visiting the waterfalls of Chiang Mai, Thailand is an experience unlike any other. From the rushing water to the lush green foliage around you, it’s an awe-inspiring place for sightseers and adventurers alike. But don’t forget something else about Chiang Mai’s falls: their stickiness! Everywhere you stand, there’s something slick and slimy beneath your toes – why? It turns out that these falls are actually fed from lime deposits from underground caves, giving the water its calcium carbonate properties – one of which is stickiness. Once you figure out why your feet are stuck to the floor every now and then, it can be a fun part of exploring the area. Go ahead; make sure to get your shoes good and wet!
