10 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit in Chiang Dao, Thailand

Nestled in the misty mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Dao is a hidden gem for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers. Just 70 kilometers north of Chiang Mai, this tranquil town offers a perfect escape from the tourist crowds.

Whether you're trekking through the lush Chiang Dao National Park, exploring the mystical Chiang Dao Cave, or soaking in the serene hot springs, there's no shortage of incredible experiences.

As a seasoned traveler in Thailand, I’ve uncovered the best things to do in Chiang Dao—from hiking to the summit of Doi Chiang Dao, the country’s third-highest peak, to visiting sacred temples like Wat Tham Pha Plong, hidden deep in the jungle. The town is also home to thriving hill tribe villages, where you can experience authentic Thai culture and local traditions. And let’s not forget the food—Chiang Dao’s local markets and organic farms serve some of the freshest, most flavorful northern Thai cuisine you’ll ever taste.

If you're seeking a peaceful getaway with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventure, Chiang Dao is a must-visit. In this guide, I’ll share the top attractions, activities, and insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to this enchanting mountain town.

What awaits you in Chiang Dao

Located about 70 km from Chiang Mai , Chiang Dao is a small town of less than 20,000 inhabitants that stands out for the beauty of its natural surroundings.

It is not a remote town lost in the mountains or a small village of some ethnic minority in northern Thailand, but a charming place where you can disconnect from the world if you want, or where you can calmly enjoy its attractions during a getaway of a couple of days.

Bordered to the north by the majestic Doi Luang Chiang Dao , the third highest mountain in the country at 2,175 metres, and to the south by endless fields of crops, Chiang Dao is an increasingly popular destination for both Thais and tourists, who, even more timidly, are already starting to put it on our radar. Nature, culture and adventure await you here , all in the same package. Are you coming to discover it?

Chiang Dao: Hot Springs, Caves, Coffee & Travel Tips

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Best Things to Do & Places to Visit in Chiang Dao

Chiang Dao was one of the first stops on our 7-car trip through northern Thailand and we loved it from the first moment. This peaceful town offers plans for almost any type of traveler: from sacred caves like the famous Chiang Dao Cave , full of impressive formations, to hot spring pools perfect for relaxing surrounded by nature, waterfalls that look like clouds and cafes that are popular on Instagram.

There are also several panoramic points from which to admire the majestic relief of the omnipresent Doi Luang Chiang Dao and a temple lost in the jungle that is reached after overcoming more than 500 steps accompanied by motivational phrases from Buddhist philosophy in the purest Mr Wonderful style. What a necessity.

And for adventure lovers, there are hiking routes that will take you to discover the biodiversity of this area, declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2021. Among them is the most stifling but most rewarding of all: climbing to the top of Doi Luang Chiang Dao.

Below we tell you about the most surprising places to see in Chiang Dao and the plans that cannot be missed on a visit of one or several days:

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1. Wat Tham Chiang Dao, a temple inside a cave

Even if your visit takes you to a Buddhist temple, we assure you that it will be one of the most different and unique that you will see on your entire trip through Thailand. This one is located inside an impressive limestone cave , full of sinuous formations that nature has shaped in a whimsical way.

After crossing a pond with fat carp fed on cucumber (true story) and climbing a short flight of stairs (ok, and pay: 40 THB per person), what awaits you is a truly fascinating underground world , which you will discover through tunnels and various natural rooms, some of which house small sanctuaries , with Buddha statues and altars.

The route is divided into two sections : the first 360 meters are illuminated and can be visited independently, and the next 365 meters are completely dark and accessible only if accompanied by an official guide equipped with a lantern, for which you will have to pay 200 THB per person .

We only did the first one and we loved it. The spaces are wide and the route is not at all complicated, at least in this part, although it is recommended to wear closed shoes.

Wat Tham Chiang Dao cave temple

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2. Wat Tham Pha Plong

This other Buddhist temple also includes a small cave, but its main attraction is that it is located on the slope of Mount Doi Luang Chiang Dao and to get there you have to climb a staircase with more than 500 steps . During the climb you will be accompanied by signs with Buddhist proverbs , something that will help you stay entertained or make you curse everything remembering Mr Wonderful, either way, you will reach the top almost without realizing it.

At the top, a small cave awaits you , which, apparently, was the place chosen by a highly respected and beloved monk in the area to carry out his meditations and rituals throughout his life. And a little higher up, there is a pagoda that, unfortunately, was under renovation when we went.

The surroundings are quite nice and the path through nature conveys a lot of peace and harmony, but the panoramic views are not as spectacular as you might expect. Still, if you have time, it is worth a visit, even if only to stretch your legs a bit. It is also free. Remember to bring water and dress appropriately, as the upper area is a sacred place (you will find a box with cloths to cover your legs, in case your pants are not long enough).

what to see in Chiang Dao Wat Tham Pha Plong

3. Doi Luang Chiang Dao Viewpoint

The most spectacular views of Thailand's third highest mountain can be found from this set of viewing points, located in the small village of Ban Lao Mai , about 15 km west of Chiang Dao in the direction of Muang Kong. The panoramic road runs at the foot of the majestic massif and is paved and in perfect condition.

When you arrive at the village, don't just hang around at the entrance, instead head down to the bottom (it's a slightly narrow, steep concrete road) where the most impressive viewing platform is located . From there, the views of Doi Luang Chiang Dao are the best in the whole area. Be aware that during the early morning hours, it may be covered in mist.

In the village there are a handful of cafés with terraces and some basic accommodation and campsites to spend the night in a more rural setting. This is also a popular starting point for several hiking routes through the wilderness, the most notable of which is undoubtedly the one that takes you to the top of the mountain… To go only to the viewpoint you will not have to pay the 400 THB National Park fee.

Doi Luang Chiang Dao Viewpoint

4. Trek to the top of Doi Luang Chiang Dao

If reaching Wat Tham Pha Plong temple (yes, the one with 500 steps) is not enough for you, how about climbing the third highest mountain in Thailand ? Doi Luang Chiang Dao has an altitude of 2,175 meters and reaching its summit, although it seems a rather challenging plan, is within reach of hiking enthusiasts.

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The round trip route is about 17 km long (with a gradient of about 1,000 metres) and is considered to be of high difficulty, although we believe that it is perfectly doable for those who are used to this type of activity. However, you will need to meet certain requirements, such as hiring a local guide, obtaining the relevant permits and, of course, being fit! According to what we have read, it is only possible to do the walk during 4 months of the year: from November to February.

It is quite typical to hire packages that include a night of camping + meals, to reach the summit just before dawn , undoubtedly the most magical moment.

Trekking to the top of Doi Luang Chiang Dao

5. Pong Arng Hot Spring

If you're more into soaking in warm waters than climbing mountains, this plan is more for you. And we understand you. At Pong Arng Hot Spring, natural pools of warm thermal waters await you , surrounded by gardens in a super relaxing and well-kept natural environment .

At the top of the complex there are two natural pools with water at over 50ºC and smelling of sulphur, in which, obviously, swimming is not permitted. From here, the water descends to two other pools at around 35-36ºC, these are prepared for swimming, in the shade of little trees and with the soundtrack of birds (as long as you don't have to share the pool with a noisy group). Finally, there are two more pools made of colder water that don't have much charm.

The entrance fee is 100 THB per person (which is the entrance fee to Pha Daeng National Park) + 30 THB for parking (20 THB if you arrive by motorbike) and will also give you access to Sri Sangwan Waterfall, just a few kilometres from here. Remember to bring a swimsuit, towel and flip-flops.

Pong Arng Hot Springs is located 30km north of Chiang Dao, but trust us, it's worth the trip. There are other free hot springs in the river area next to the town ( Chiang Dao Hot Springs ), but they are much more shabby (they are basically cement cylinders with hot water).

things to do in Chiang Dao Pong Arng Hot Spring

6. Sri Sangwan Waterfall

This waterfall is another of the natural gems to see near Chiang Dao and we would say that you cannot miss it. Get the idea of a vertical waterfall of several meters from a rock wall out of your head, the Sri Sangwan waterfalls are characterized by their whitish limestone that apparently makes them very non-slippery, although we preferred not to check it.

There are several levels with more or less impressive waterfalls that form natural pools , some of which are ideal for a cool dip. The path that connects these levels is about 700 metres long and runs parallel to the river, so it is a very pleasant walk. Although the return is a bit steep. At the end, a café awaits you where you can recover from this "effort".

what to see in Chiang Dao Sri Sangwan Waterfall

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7. Giant Trees Alley

Perhaps outside Thailand a place like this might not attract much attention, but be careful because it has become one of the most popular photo spots in Chiang Dao. It consists of a stretch of road surrounded by trees of considerable size , which contrasts with the rest of the landscape. It is something like the redwood avenues that can be found in California, but in Thai style.

You may come across minivans and cars parked on the side of the road, and the occasional group of local tourists taking selfies, because who is afraid of being run over when you can get a great Instagram photo? Just in case, reduce your speed and take extra care when approaching.

Giant Trees Alley Chiang Dao

8. Other temples in Chiang Dao

Did you think you were going to get away with a little temple tour? No, my friend, we are in Thailand so it is almost impossible not to be tempted to take a look at some of them. These were the 3 that we found most interesting:

Wat Mae Eed is located in the center of Chiang Dao and is notable for its sinister figures that refer to Buddhist purgatory or hell. Truly disturbing.
Phuttha Phrom Panyo Meditation Center , with a huge Buddha statue in a natural setting suitable for developing the meditation retreats it offers.
Wat Phra That Doi Mon Ching , located on a hill on the way to Pong Arng Hot Spring, is notable for its replica of Myanmar's Golden Rock and panoramic views.

Wat Phra That Doi Mon Chiang temple in Chiang Dao Thailand

9. Local markets

As we always say, the best way to get a feel for a place is to visit its local market. In Chiang Dao, the morning market selling fresh local produce takes place every morning on the main street, although there is a much busier one on Tuesdays.

While the night market , more aimed at tourists and with a mix of street food, crafts and atmosphere, is held on Thursday nights. We, of course, arrived on Tuesday afternoon and left on Thursday morning :S

10. Charming cafes in Chiang Dao

And from the spiritual we return to the purely earthly, and there is nothing better than to complete this guide to Chiang Dao by recommending some of the best coffee shops where you can liven up your Instagram feed and delight your taste buds. There are many beautiful ones, but we leave you with a selection of the ones we took note of before the trip:

Khampanna Café resort & Nature café , our favorite, with amazing views and surrounded by rice fields.
Makhampom Art Space Chiang Dao is an art center but also has a cute cafe.
Doiluang Crayfish Farm to Cafe , in what was once a crayfish farm.
Hoklhong Cafe
TATA Chiang Dao Cafe

coffee shop in Chiang Dao — *Khampanna Cafe in Chiang Dao*

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Tips for visiting Chiang Dao

Before you go, we have a few recommendations that will help you plan your trip to Chiang Dao in the best way possible:

✓ How to get to Chiang Dao from Chiang Mai

The good news that makes Chiang Dao a quick and easy getaway from Chiang Mai is that the road to get there is flat, in excellent condition and practically without curves , nothing like the road to get to Pai. It is about 70 km, although with quite a bit of traffic, which takes approximately 1 hour and a half to cover by rental car, as we did, or by 125CC/150CC scooter without any difficulty.

If you prefer to arrive by public transport, there are buses with continuous departures from Chang Phuak bus station , not to be confused with Arcade, the main bus station for trips to more distant destinations. The price is about 70 THB.

✓ Where to stay in Chiang Dao

Chiang Dao is basically made up of two streets : the main artery where all the important businesses in the town are located, such as banks, supermarkets, the local market, etc. And the street that leads to the Wat Tham Chiang Dao cave, which is much quieter.

We believe that to enjoy a complete experience, the ideal is to find accommodation in an area away from the hustle and bustle and therefore from the main street. There are several accommodations with cabins or small resorts surrounded by rice fields and fields, some recommended are: Baan Porhdoi Goidao , The View Chiang Dao and 467 Chiang Dao ). And other charming little hotels at a good price where you can feel super comfortable, like the Ashi Guesthouse where we stayed.

✓ What and where to eat in Chiang Dao

In Chiang Dao, you won't just fall in love with the mountains and temples, but also with the food! Here, the flavours of northern Thailand take centre stage with dishes packed with spices and fresh herbs and that home-cooked touch that makes you want to repeat. If you're inspired to explore its gastronomy, here are the 5 dishes you must try:

Khao Soi – noodles in a creamy curry, with chicken or beef, and that extra crunch from fried noodles. Serve with pickles and lime, and prepare for glory. Without a doubt, the king of Northern Thailand.
Nam Prik Ong : A dish with tomato, pork and chillies, and served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables. It's like a dip, but with power.
Sai Oua : a northern sausage that will surprise you, spicy, aromatic and with a spicy touch.
Laap Moo : Minced meat salad with a refreshing twist, with mint, lime and fresh herbs, perfect for balancing any meal.
Gaeng Hang Lay : A unique, less spicy curry from the north, cooked with ginger, tamarind and spices that give it a sweet and super comforting taste.

Where to try these unique flavours? Here are a few recommendations for restaurants to eat in Chiang Dao:

Aishi Café is a small restaurant that perfectly combines Japanese and Thai culture. You can try ramen, gyozas, rice bowls with meat or tofu and craft beers. It is the restaurant of the accommodation where we stayed.
Khampanna Coffee , we liked it not only for its excellent coffee but also for its unique location in the middle of rice fields with amazing views. Their menu includes specialty Thai coffees, fresh smoothies and some local food options (like fried rice), breakfast and desserts.
ผัดไทย»บ้านอะลาดิน» Padthai Aladin Chingdao , to try the best pad thai in the area.
Two sisters restaurant , a simple and informal place where you can try typical Thai dishes and others from Myanmar such as lapet dok (Burmese salad) or geng makpak (tofu and pumpkin curry).

Do you know what to see in Chiang Dao ? Have you been to this charming little village surrounded by mountains north of Chiang Mai? Tell us about your experience!