Looking for the best instagram and photography spots in Chiang Mai, Thailand? You have come to the right place! In recent years, Chiang Mai has blown up as a travel destination partly due to a lot of places that became famous on instagram. This blog post on the 10 best instagram places in Chiang Mai provides all the deets along with the complete travel information and tips you need. The best thing is many of these places are also important cultural landmarks of Chiang Mai. You will also find special photography tips and google map location links for each place !
Before starting, here’s a link for all essential travel requirements you will need:
- FLIGHTS: I check flight prices using GOOGLE FLIGHTS and SKYSCANNER.
- VISA: Thailand offers Visa exemption for many countries. Click HERE for more details.
- ACCOMODATION: My favourite site for the best hotel options in all budgets is BOOKING.COM
- TRANSPORT: I book all my bus/train/road transfers using 12GoAsia, a very safe and convinient website for all transport options.
If you are planning a trip to Thailand, take a look at all my Thailand posts to plan the perfect vacation:
10 BEST INSTAGRAM PLACES IN CHIANG MAI (with map links)
1. THA PHAE GATE: INTRO TO CHIANG MAI’S OLD CITY
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: The first spot in the best instagram places in Chiang Mai is the Tha Phae Gate, located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s old city which was once the capital of the erstwhile Lanna kingdom. This area is in the form of a square, surrounded by walls and a moat with 4 gates in 4 directions. Today, parts of the original walls and the gates can still be found and Tha Phae gate is the most intact and famous of all those gates still standing.
In addition, the area in front of the gate functions as a sort of public square with families milling around and buzzing with cultural events. You will also find lots of pigeons to feed here!
HOW TO REACH: Tha Phae gate is located at the eastern wall of the old city. It is also the gate that is closest to the Night bazaar and Sunday walking street. Ask any local or tuk tuk driver or use your map to visit the spot.
TIMINGS: Open 24 hours
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Any time of the day. Early evening is a good time to feel the vibes of the place.
ENTRY FEES: Free.
WHAT TO WEAR: Anything, casual or even formal. Colours like white, yellow or red will look good against the wall. You will often find wedding photoshoots taking place here.
MY RATING: 8/10
PRO TIP: The other 3 gates of the old walled city are:
- Chuang Phuak gate: located on the North end, this gate is near the famous Chuang phuak street food market and the North gate Jazz co-op
- Suan Dok gate : the West gate and near the Wat Suan Dok temple
- Chiang Mai gate: the South gate and it is the starting point of the famous Saturday night market
2. THE PAVILION, WAT DOI SUTHEP: STEP INSIDE HEAVEN IN THE CLOUDS
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: Wat Doi Suthep itself is the most iconic temple in Chiang Mai, the one temple that you cannot miss. And the Pavilion here, with it’s teak wood carvings and with a view from above makes one of the best photo spots in all of Chiang Mai. The temple itself has a golden chedi, koi ponds, gardens and a beautiful Naga staircase of 306 stairs.
HOW TO REACH: The cheapest way is to catch a shared songthaew. You can get one outside Chang Phuak north gate or Tha Phae gate. You can also go by Grab taxi or Grab songthaew (which cost us 270 THB for a one way trip) For the return journey: catch a shared songthaew from the base of the temple which costs 50 THB pp till Tha Phae gate.
TIMINGS: Open from 6AM to 6PM
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Early morning 6-8AM for the pleasant temperatures and more peaceful atmosphere.
ENTRY FEES: 30 THB PP. There is a funicular which goes to the top. Return Tickets cost 60 THB which also includes the temple entry tickets.
WHAT TO WEAR: Wear decent respectful clothes as it is a temple. Carry a light jacket or scarf if you go early in the morning. If you plan on climbing the stairs to the top, wear proper shoes.
MY RATING: 10/10
PRO TIP:
- You can combine a visit to Wat Doi Suthep with a hike through the Monk’s trail to reach Wat Pa lat temple. This is 1 hour hike which begins from the rear end of Chiang Mai zoo till Wat Pa Lat temple inside the jungle. Catch a shared songthaew from Doi Suthep till Chiang Mai zoo to reach the hike starting point.
- Huay Kaew Waterfalls is also located near Chiang Mai zoo at the beginning of Doi Suthep road and is a popular picnic spot. It is Open from 8am-5pm. If you plan it well, you can visit Doi Suthep temple early in the morning, hike the monk’s trail and finish off at the waterfall for a good half day trip.
3. WAT SRI SUPHAN AKA THE SILVER TEMPLE: THE MOST STUNNING TEMPLE IN CHIANG MAI
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: This was actually my personal favourite from the best instagram places in Chiang Mai. This beautiful Silver temple is originally 500 years old but the ordination hall has been built recently with a mix of silver, aluminium and nickel. This gives it a stunning silver look with intricate details that beautifully showcases the work of the silversmiths. There are many other pretty structures in the compound including a silver Ganesha idol that make this place a photographer’s delight.
The area around the Silver temple is home to many silver craftsmen and artisans and you can catch them in action in their workshops after 10am.
HOW TO REACH: Located outside the old city’s Chiang Mai gate (South gate) in the silver district. Depending on where you stay, you can walk, take a tuk tuk or catch a Grab taxi.
TIMINGS: 6am to 5.30 pm daily. The ordination hall however opens from 8am.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Go early at opening time 7AM.
ENTRY FEES: 50THB PP
WHAT TO WEAR: As it is an active religious site, make sure to wear modest clothes covering knees and shoulders and behave appropriately. Bright colours like Red or Magenta or Yellow will make you stand out against the silver background.
MY RATING: 10/10
PRO TIP: The temple is actually located near the area where the Saturday walking street takes place. On Saturdays, the temple is open till 9.30 pm at night. Take advantage of this to check out the nearby walking street and then watch the temple lit up after night fall.
4. WAT RAJAMONTEAN: THOSE RED STAIRS
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: This beautiful temple is one of the lesser visited temples in Chiang Mai. Located on the outer perimeter of the Northern walls of the old city, Wat Rajamontean cannot be missed if you are in this area thanks to the big Buddha statue in the outer complex. The temple has a distinct red and gold design which looks beautiful.
HOW TO REACH: If you stay around the North gate area, you can walk up to here. Or else, it’s best to catch a tuk tuk or Grab taxi.
TIMINGS: The main temple is open from 8am-5pm. But you can come here anytime to take pictures of the beautiful staircase.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Any time of the day as most people don’t come here.
ENTRY FEES: Free
WHAT TO WEAR: Respectful decent dresses in bright colours like yellow or white will look particularly good.
MY RATING: 8.5/10
PRO TIP: Walk a few minutes to the left of Wat Rajamontean to reach one of the prettiest cafes in Chiang Mai: Versailles de flores. Built in the French renaissance style, this is good food stop after temple hopping.
Also, cross the road to visit Wat Lok Moli which is situated right opposite to Wat Rajamontean.
5. WAT LOK MOLI: A UNIQUE TEMPLE
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: Wat Lok moli or molee is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai and used to be a royal temple during the time of the Lanna dynasty. It is one of the most beautiful and unique temples to visit in Chiang Mai due to it’s unusual design and colours. The temple is made of teak and decorated with black and white lacquer designs that makes for a distinctly unique appearance. I actually felt it was one of the best for photography purpose. There many beautiful details here like the reddish entry gate, the elephants guarding the gate and the Naga serpents.
HOW TO REACH: Located Just across the road from Wat Rajamontean near the North gate of the old city.
TIMINGS: 8 AM to 5 PM
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Any time of the day as it not that well known and few tourists come here.
ENTRY FEES: Free
WHAT TO WEAR: Decent dresses in bright colours like yellow or white will look particularly good.
MY RATING: 9/10
PRO TIP: Many Hindu motifs can be found here like a statue of Brahma with his 3 heads, a ten armed Goddess and others.
6. CHOM CAFE: WELCOME TO THE ENCHANTED FOREST
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: Even though Chiang Mai has lots of cute cafes, this might just be the best! Chom café has been designed like a garden of paradise with lush nature vibes all around. You will find koi ponds, lots of trees, streams, moss and mist enveloping the place giving it a dream like forest feel. You will find lots of spots to take pictures here. But be ready to jostle with all the other locals and tourists who come here to get a feel of an urban paradise and for their share of Instagram shots. The restaurant itself is big with both indoor and outdoor seating sections and a huge variety of delicious dishes in the menu.
HOW TO REACH: The best way to go there is by Grab taxi.
TIMINGS: 11AM to 10 PM
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Either right at opening time or late afternoon post lunch when the number of people might be relatively lesser compared to lunch or sunset/dinner time.
ENTRY FEES: Free but you will expected to order something
WHAT TO WEAR: Girls, this is THE place to bring out those pretty flowy dresses that look oh-so-beautiful in instagram! Pretty much any colour except Green or Black. I personally feel red, yellow or white will look very nice.
MY RATING: 10/10
PRO TIP: Avoid weekends or public holidays when the crowds can get overwhelming.
7. VERSAILLES DE FLORES: FRENCH BEAUTY IN A CAFE
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: This one is truly one of the best instagram places in Chiang Mai without a doubt! Enjoy a slice of Europe in the heart of Chiang Mai! This unique café has been designed in a French Renaissance style with gilded columns, arches, painted window panes along with a garden dotted with angelic cherub statues and a big golden fountain. The interiors are even more intricately decorated in the style of Versailles palace with colourful painted ceilings. It is actually a hotel as well and offers both indoor seating as well as alfresco outdoors. I was surprised to find no one there when we went at 10AM breakfast time. Go there to feel that European royal ambience.
HOW TO REACH: The café is actually located on the Northern end of the old city walls, near Chuang Phuak north gate. Take a tuk tuk or else walk if you live near the old city.
TIMINGS: 8AM to 5PM, Closed on Wednesdays
BEST TIME TO VISIT: I feel anytime that avoids the lunch crowd should be fine
ENTRY FEES: Free
WHAT TO WEAR: Again, all those pretty flowy dresses in vibrant colours or else go for a simple chic European look in soft pastels.
MY RATING: 9.5/10
PRO TIP: The café is located near Wat Rajamontean and Wat Lok Moli temples, which are often overlooked by tourists. Take a look at these 2 pretty temples too.
8. HUAY TONG TAO RESERVOIR
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: This is essentially a man made reservoir that was originally built by the king to deal with water scarcity issues of the nearby villages. Today, it is a full fledged picnic area with plenty of activities to satisfy everyone. You can choose from boating, swimming, fishing, biking, game zone and ATV rides along with a visit to the sheep farm. The main insta attraction here is the sculpture park which has enormous straw sculptures of animals like gorilla, elephants and peacocks where you can take some fun photos. There are also some thatched huts along the lakeside which you can rent to eat your food or simply relax and see the sunset.
Accomodation: There is a nearby camping site where you can set up your own tents. There also a few cabins and cottages for rent.
Bonus: For hunger pangs, there are 20 + restaurants, each in a different hut and lots of local vendors offering cheap Thai food and drinks. You can also bring your own food and drinks.
HOW TO REACH: Located 12 kms from Chiang Mai in the Mae Rim district and takes around 30 mins. Rent a bike or car. Alternatively, take a Grab taxi.
TIMINGS: 9 AM to 6 PM (The huts close at 5PM.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Any time of the day. Avoid weekends as it can become very crowded with local families.
ENTRY FEES: 20 THB (Locals), 50 THB (Foreigners)
WHAT TO WEAR: Comfortable light clothes to spend the whole day.
MY RATING: 8/10
PRO TIP:There is a 6 mile long looping trail around the lake that takes 2-3 hours and offers views. Apart from this, you can also hike 2 kms to a nearby waterfall.
9. BO SANG UMBRELLA VILLAGE: THAI CULTURE AND ARTS
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: Take the opportunity to explore more of Thai artistic culture at this pretty umbrella village. This area has been termed as the home of Thai handicraft and handloom industry and Thai tourism dedicates a day of celebration annually in honour of the artisans and their craft. Here you will find talented artists making pretty parasols made of paper and silk in different sizes that are beautifully painted with depictions of Thai elements. Apart from umbrellas, you will also find other pretty souvenirs like paintings and paper fans to carry home.
HOW TO REACH: Located 10 kms to the east of Chiang Mai. You can take a shared songthaew from Wararot market or a tuk tuk.
TIMINGS: 8AM to 5 PM
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Any time during visiting hours
ENTRY FEES: Free
WHAT TO WEAR: Colourful clothes will look good here.
MY RATING: 8/10
PRO TIP: An interesting souvenir idea: Many of the artists here can paint on any object like your mobile case cover, backpack etc which you can easily carry home.
10. I LOVE FLOWER FARM: FOR THE PICTURE PERFECT POSTCARD
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: This list of the best instagram places to visit in Chiang Mai won’t be complete without including a visit to a flower field. Near Chinag Mai lies the small town of Mae Rim which is home to many beautiful flower farms. These farms are perfect for a day trip from Chiang Mai where you can capture lots of pretty shots. One of the best is ‘I Love Flower farm’ with pretty hydrangeas and lavenders blooming in beautiful colours. They take in only 200 visitors per day so make sure to book your ticket in advance especially during blooming season.
HOW TO REACH: Located 10 kms from Chiang Mai’s old town. The journey takes 40 mins by car/taxi.
TIMINGS: 8AM to 6 PM
BEST TIME TO VISIT: November to February is the best time to visit flower farms in Chiang Mai.
ENTRY FEES: 70 THB
WHAT TO WEAR: Beautiful dresses in bright colours like white, yellow, pink or lavender will look good here.
MY RATING: 9/10
BONUS SPOT: WAT SUAN DOK: THE ROYAL CEMETERY
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT: I was actually pretty conflicted on whether to include this temple among the best instagram places in Chiang Mai or not because the main attraction here is the highly picturesque Royal cemetery. This is NOT a place to take romantic couple shots or any type of insensitive photo. After much deliberation I decided to add this to my list as the cemetery is too pretty and unique to miss out on for photography enthusiasts.
This beautiful cemetery is a collection of smaller white Lanna style chedis housing the ashes of the royal family and has a very peaceful atmosphere. The Doi Suthep mountain in the background makes for a pretty picture. Built in the 13th century on the royal flower gardens, Wat Suan Dok has several other highlights to check out: the 48 metres high golden chedi, and the 5 metres high Big Buddha statue inside the hall.
HOW TO REACH: Located 1 km from the West gate of Chiang Mai city. Take a Grab taxi to reach the temple.
TIMINGS: 6 AM to 5 PM
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Early in the morning for a more peaceful vibe
ENTRY FEES: Free
WHAT TO WEAR: Decent respectful clothes. Red will stand out a lot against the white background.
MY RATING: 9.5/10
PRO TIP: Monk chats are held thrice a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 5-7PM. The temple also hosts meditation retreats.
MORE PRETTY PLACES TO EXPLORE
GEORGETOWN: Go hunting for the best insta friendly street art in the alleys that have brought international popularity to this town. Read my complete Street Art Guide Here.
SRI LANKA: Plan a trip to check out the prettiest instagram places in Sri Lanka in this guide which has all the details including google map links. Read my complete guide here.
JAIPUR: Visit one of India’s most beautiful cities which is full of colours and culture and stunning instagram spots. Read my complete Travel Guide Here.
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