I enjoy writing this series to provide future visitors with ideas for things to see and do in each destination that I visit. Especially activities that don’t cost anything for they are just that much sweeter. As a budget traveller, here is a list of 5 free things to do in Chiang Mai Thailand.
Temples
OMG, never have I ever been anywhere with so many religious houses in one area. Did you know there are over 300 Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai? Walk down any street and I can just about guarantee that you will pass one if not multiple. ☺️
I will do a couple of posts with specific temples in mind, really though, each and every one that I have explored has been truly beautiful in its own right. Whether it contains a unique chedi surrounded by elephants (Wat Chiang Man) or original old paintings on the walls of the wihan (Wat Pa Prao Nai), you will be amazing with what you see.
Street Art
I was not expecting to see so much and everywhere, but Chiang Mai is a gold mine for street art. Some is very traditional and other pieces are new and imaginative. There does not seem to be any specific location for the art either.
It is spread down every alley and street, really anywhere with a tall cinder block wall. If you walk around early in the morning, you can get a good viewing from the middle of the streets, before they become busy with vehicles.
Chiang Mai Old City
This is what I came to explore on this visit, my first ever destination in Thailand. And I have not been disappointed. Besides the temples that express the age of the city, there are many charming old houses and buildings as well.
Chiang Mai was founded in the 13th century. The city is fortified with walls around every side. At the mid point of these walls is the main gate, North, South, East and West. Between the outer streets and the walls is the continual moat, still in existence today. Enter through any of these gates and you are being transported through a portal of history.
Nong Buak Haad Park
At the south western corner of old town, is a beautiful large park and public garden. This is free to enter and a peaceful oasis to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Walking the paths, one is passing by tranquil ponds, fountains and over bridges. Every year, in early February, the annual flower festival takes place. The park is transformed into a garden paradise. These flowers are sustained for months afterwards.
Flower Market
A fun excursion outside of Old Town is to walk towards the river and find the Flower Market. Located right here, next to China Town, this colourful street is full of stalls containing all sorts of cut flowers and greenery.
See how the Buddhist floral offerings are made as well as packaged and sold. Watch as locals pull up on their bikes and vehicles to purchase flowers straight from the comfort of their car. And walk along the sidewalk discovering how the flowers are delivered wholesale, then separated and transformed into beautiful bouquets.
I hope this gives you some ideas for things to see in this amazing city of Chiang Mai. I have been overwhelmed each and every day that I go for a walk. Now I know why people come here for months versus days. There is just so much to experience and see here and the vibe is friendly and fun.
