3 nights, 4 days
Chiang Mai 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)
A 4-day route through Chiang Mai grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.
Distances are straight-line, so actual transit times will differ. Feel free to reorder the stops. · Updated August 15, 2026
The whole route at a glance
Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors Lines are straight connections, not actual routes.
DAY 1
Around Doi Suthep · Nature·Zoos & aquariums
Directions in Google Maps-
MorningDoi Suthep
Nature
A 1,676-meter mountain west of Chiang Mai, with two granite peaks rising side by side near its summit. The other peak, Doi Pui, is slightly higher.
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After lunchDoi Pui
Nature · 1.8 km from the previous stop
A granite peak rising 1,685 meters west of Chiang Mai, standing alongside Doi Suthep. Located within Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, it's a great spot for trekking through Hmong villages.
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AfternoonChiang Mai Zoo
Zoos & aquariums · 6.7 km from the previous stop
The first zoo in northern Thailand, located west of Chiang Mai University. Since opening in 1977, it has been a beloved outing spot where visitors can see a wide variety of animals.
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EveningTribal Museum
Museums & galleries · 3.2 km from the previous stop
An ethnological museum in Chiang Mai that displays the daily life of northern Thailand's hill tribes. It's a great place to take a closer look at their traditions and culture.
DAY 2
Around Wat Phra Sing · Temples & religious sites·Heritage & monuments
Directions in Google Maps-
MorningWat Phra Sing
Temples & religious sites
One of Chiang Mai's leading Buddhist temples, home to the revered Phra Buddha Sihing image. Walking through the temple grounds offers an up-close look at Thai Buddhist culture.
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After lunchThree Kings Monument, Chiang Mai
Heritage & monuments · 0.7 km from the previous stop
A monument in the heart of downtown Chiang Mai featuring statues of the three kings who founded the Lanna Kingdom. Built to commemorate the city's founding, it stands as a symbol of Chiang Mai's history.
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AfternoonWarorot Market
Shopping & districts · 1.4 km from the previous stop
The largest traditional market in northern Thailand, located in downtown Chiang Mai. It's a great place to enjoy the lively atmosphere while browsing local food and a wide variety of goods.
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EveningChiang Mai Night Bazaar
Shopping & districts · 0.5 km from the previous stop
A well-known night market east of Chiang Mai's Old City, near the Ping River. It's packed with sights and shopping, from handicrafts and portraits to jewelry and clothing.
DAY 3
Around Doi Suthep-Pui National Park · Parks & gardens·Museums & galleries
Directions in Google Maps-
MorningDoi Suthep-Pui National Park
Parks & gardens
A national park on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, home to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple and Bhubing Palace, the Thai royal family's winter residence, nestled in the mountains. It's a great spot to combine temple visits with walks through lush nature.
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After lunchChiang Mai National Museum
Museums & galleries · 6.3 km from the previous stop
A national museum near Wat Chet Yot in northwest Chiang Mai, where you can explore the history and artifacts of the Lanna Kingdom with descriptions in Thai and English. It's a recommended stop for travelers wanting a deeper understanding of northern Thai culture.
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AfternoonChiang Mai Night Safari
Zoos & aquariums · 9.9 km from the previous stop
A state-run zoo in Chiang Mai that opened in 2005. Visitors can take a nighttime safari tour to observe wildlife up close after dark.
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EveningBan Ho Mosque
Temples & religious sites · 10.1 km from the previous stop
A mosque near Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar, one of the largest in the area. Founded by Chinese immigrants, it's one of the few mosques in Chiang Mai.
DAY 4
Around Wiang Kum Kam · Heritage & monuments
Directions in Google Maps-
MorningWiang Kum Kam
Heritage & monuments
An ancient city ruin on the banks of the Ping River outside Chiang Mai, Thailand, once used as the capital by King Mangrai before he moved it to Chiang Mai. Long submerged underwater before resurfacing, it's a worthwhile destination for exploring ancient ruins.
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After lunchWat Pupia
Heritage & monuments · 0.5 km from the previous stop
Wat Pupia is a half-ruined temple within the Wiang Kum Kam archaeological site on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Its stucco decorations and original layout are relatively well preserved, making it a worthwhile stop on a tour of the ruins.
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AfternoonWat I Kang
Heritage & monuments · 0.2 km from the previous stop
A 16th–17th century temple site remaining within the Wiang Kum Kam ruins near Chiang Mai. It's a good place to walk among the remnants of the old temple and feel the history of the ancient city.
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EveningWat Phan Lao
Heritage & monuments · 0.5 km from the previous stop
A 16th-century temple site within the Wiang Kum Kam ruins near Chiang Mai. Walking among the crumbling remains, you can sense traces of the ancient city.
Where to stay for this itinerary
Around Doi Suthep, the anchor of day one. Staying here keeps your first day's travel shortest.
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Nobel House 3-star
5.3 km
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Phujaya
5.9 km · ภูจาญา
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Krisdadoi Gardens
6.0 km
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Krisdadoi Resort
6.0 km · กฤษดาดอย
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Baanklangdoi Resort
6.1 km · บ้านกลางดอย
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Suan Bua Hotel & Resort
6.2 km · Hangdong · โรงแรม สวนบัวรีสอร์ท
Check prices and availability on the booking sites.
More stays in Chiang Mai →Check flights to Chiang Mai first
Pick a departure airport and date to jump straight to results for Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
Check fares and seat availability on the flight search site.
Tours & tickets for this itinerary
Popular sights often sell out on the day. Once your plan is set, secure tickets and tours in advance.