What family activities are there to do in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai is a true playground for families. Between walks, temples, crafts, swimming, and nature, discover the activities to enjoy with children during your stay.
16 Oct 2023
Planning a trip to northern Thailand with your children? Head to Chiang Mai! Both modern and traditional, Thailand's second-largest city promises wonderful family outings and child-friendly activities. Temple visits, water games, local craftsmanship, and bathing with elephants: discover what family activities to enjoy in Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai's temples for families What family activities are there to do in Chiang Mai?
Wat Chet Lin
Among the most beautiful temples in Chiang Mai, don't miss Wat Chet Lin. Built in the 15th century, it's full of unusual wonders that will delight children—a five-eyed panda, skeletons in sunglasses, golden dragons, and other fantastical creatures! During your visit, you'll cross a lovely bridge adorned with colorful lanterns, where you can spot catfish and giant water lilies.
Wat Phra Singh
In the heart of the old town, discover Wat Phra Singh, known for its golden Buddhas and splendid murals. You can admire many structures here—including a magnificent white stupa and a beautiful viharn dating from the late 14th century. A tip? During cultural visits, don't hesitate to explore Chiang Mai by bicycle to make family travel easier!
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Located west of Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a masterpiece of Lanna art—but it comes with a challenge! Perched atop a hill, the temple is only accessible after climbing more than 300 steps. To avoid crowds and heat, plan an early morning visit with your children—and don't hesitate to get closer to the site by renting a songthaew (a shared pickup truck).
Other family activities in Chiang Mai
Learn to cook Thai cuisine What family activities are there to do in Chiang Mai?
Just like architectural heritage, cuisine is a way to discover Thailand. During your stay, why not take a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai with a local family? Throughout this culinary exchange, your hosts' children will be delighted to share their expertise with the youngest members of your family!
Try bamboo rafting
Looking for an unusual activity to do with your children in Chiang Mai? Try bamboo rafting! This traditional mode of transport is a unique way to explore the surrounding nature (such as the Mae Tang or Mae Wang rivers). As a precaution, always wear a life jacket—and only board with children who can swim.
Discover the "umbrella village"
About ten kilometers from Chiang Mai, you'll find the Bo Sang village (or Bor Sang). Nicknamed the "umbrella village," it showcases local craftsmanship through art workshops—traditional parasol making, silk weaving, and more. The residents of Bo Sang live mainly from their crafts and display numerous handmade items… A perfect opportunity to introduce your children to traditional craftsmanship.
Have fun at Grand Canyon Chiang Mai What family activities are there to do in Chiang Mai?
In the Hang Dong district (25 minutes from central Chiang Mai), you'll find the large inflatable water park Grand Canyon Chiang Mai. Equipped with a zip-line, giant water slides, trampolines, and pools suitable for children (and babies), the park is also a relaxation spot for parents. On the menu? Aqua skippers, kayaking, and wakeboarding! You can dine on-site and enjoy a bingsu—shaved ice topped with red beans…
Visit Chiang Mai Elephant Friends
The Chiang Mai Elephant Friends (located 1 hour south of Chiang Mai) is a facility dedicated to ethical elephant encounters. Offering luxury accommodations (with rental proceeds funding elephant care), the center allows you to get up close with these animals while respecting their wild nature. During your stay, you can feed the elephants, trek through the jungle, or even bathe with them!
| Elephant riding: understanding the cost to animals Elephant riding is widespread throughout Thailand. Yet this activity contributes to animal slavery. Though pachyderms are known for their gentleness, they remain wild animals not meant to carry tourists all day long. To domesticate them, handlers use the phajaan: a method involving corporal punishment, used until the animal becomes fearful and obeys without question. While tourists don't directly participate in this mistreatment, they do contribute to these sad living conditions. For a meaningful time with elephants, always choose facilities focused on animal welfare and avoid rides offered at ultra-touristy sites. |
Hidden gems to discover around Chiang Mai with children
Visit Mae Sa
Mae Sa is a subdistrict (located about 1.5 hours by car from Chiang Mai) that truly deserves a stop. One of the must-see sites? The Mae Sa waterfall! Nestled in the Mae Kok National Park, this 15-meter cascade falls in two distinct levels…
There are two trails to reach it: the first, beloved by photographers; the second, preferred by swimmers! Mae Sa is also known for its beautiful orchid farm—Suan Bua Mae Sa Orchid.
Explore the temples of Sukhothai What family activities are there to do in Chiang Mai?
Located just a few hours' drive from Chiang Mai, don't miss the historic city of Sukhothai. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its "admirable monuments illustrating the beginnings of Thai architecture," it houses unmissable temples, such as:
● Wat Mahathat with its lovely basin;
● Wat Si Sawai with its distinctive architecture;
● Wat Sa Si with its silver ubosot, adorned with bas-reliefs.
| Chiang Mai: a safe, family-friendly destination Northern Thailand is a secure destination. If you're traveling with a baby, note that Thai cuisine is spicy and it can sometimes be difficult to find dishes suited to very young children—but not impossible. Chiang Mai's climate is hot and humid (between 86–95°F / 30–35°C) and may require a few days to adjust to. Throughout your journey, be sure to keep your children well-hydrated and pack all necessary sun protection: UV-protective swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, etc. Finally, to facilitate family transportation, it's possible to rent a van with a driver. If traveling with a toddler, bring a compact stroller! |
Audrey Denjean
Audrey DENJEAN
SEO web writer, Audrey Denjean puts her writing at the service of English-speaking travelers. Through her blog articles, she explores what defines a country's soul—its landmark sites, cuisine, traditions, history… Her goal? To share more than just tourist information, but to paint an atmosphere, share anecdotes that make each country unique and spark the desire, after each reading, to venture out and explore the world.
