I think anyone that came to Thailand at least once can agree that there are endless activities in town. And while the city is great during the day, the best things to do in Chiang Mai at night must not be underestimated.
Do you think that all the best places should be visited in broad daylight? Well, the Chiang Mai night scene is here to change your mind. In this post, you’ll find the 15 best things to do in Chiang Mai at night.
Whether you’re a group of friends willing to have fun or a laid-back family visiting Southeast Asia, this is everything you need to know!
Before starting, note that I’ll separate the nightclubs and bars from the rest of the things to do at night in Chiang Mai, so if you’re into that, head over to the bottom of this post.
15 Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai at Night
Chiang Mai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. With its rich culture and stunning scenery, it’s easy to see why. But what are the best things to do at night in Chiang Mai?
Here below, you’ll find what to do in Chiang Mai at night, from tours that take you to hidden gems to more touristy, popular spots that you can’t miss. Let’s get started!
See the Sunset at Doi Suthep
Make your way up to Doi Suthep temple for sunset and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most incredible views in all of Thailand.
That’s right, the viewpoint at the Doi Suthep temple is one of the best ways to start the evening in town, and you just can’t plan a trip to Thailand without visiting.
After braving 300 steps to this mountain temple, you’ll be treated with a stunning view of the valley below as the setting sun shines its last rays on the golden temple.
As the sun sets, the sky turns a deep red, painting the city below in a beautiful hue.
Also, in the evening, you can see and listen to the monks chanting, and that’s just an incredible experience when coming to Chiang Mai.
Whether you decide to join a tour or travel by yourself, the show is definitely going to impress you. You can get there by getting a private taxi or joining a tour that also includes Wat Umong, which I’m going to cover here below.
Visit the Tunnels in Wat Umong
Next is visiting Wat Umong temple, a unique temple hidden in the forest, consisting of a system of tunnels with images of Buddha.
As you walk through the brick-enforced corridors, you can hear the faint sounds of monks chanting prayers in the chamber next to you.
If you’re looking for a less touristy tranquil temple where you’ll be able to take amazing photos to bring back home, this is Wat Umon.
Hundreds of years of Buddha teachings bounce off the cave walls, filling the air with a sense of peace and tranquility. Such an enchanting atmosphere is what brings most people here to meditate at night.
In addition, there will be positive signs and messages all around the temple area, making it one of the most unique in Chiang Mai.
The best way to visit at night is to join a tour from Chiang Mai, which includes a stop at Doi Suthep temple and transportation, and you’ll hear amazing stories from your tour guide. Plus, it’s cheap!
Go Shopping at Chiang Mai Night Markets
When hunting for unique souvenirs to bring home from your trip to Chiang Mai, be sure to check out the Saturday Night Market and the Sunday Walking Street.
These popular markets in Chiang Mai are filled with stalls selling a wide variety of items, from hand-crafted jewelry and pottery to traditional Thai clothing and snacks.
The Saturday night market is located at the South of the Old City, not far from the Chiang Mai Gate. On the other hand, the Sunday Walking Street starts right in front of Wat Phra Singh temple or at the Tha Phae Gate.
You can bargain with the vendors for a lower price, or enjoy browsing the interesting wares on display. The market is also a great place to sample some local food, as many vendors sell street food such as grilled meats and skewers, fried noodles, and sweet desserts.
With its lively atmosphere and array of goods, both markets are excellent places to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take back home!
Have Some Street Food
Do you plan to go bar hopping? Or just craving a midnight snack after coming back from tour to Chiang Rai? Well, it’s never a bad time to get some street food in Chiang Mai!
An abundance of food stalls on the streets of Chiang Mai will have you choosing between the different local delicacies. From Khao Soi to Grilled Chicken or Coconut Water, you’ll have plenty of choice.
I’d highly recommend getting some kanom kroke. It’s never too late to have a delicious coconut dumpling for dessert! For a proper dinner food, check out my personal recommendations below.
Alternatively, you can also get a street food tour, which includes a ton of food, countless laughter, and at least 2 night markets, which is what makes Chiang Mai so unique.
Last but not least, it is very common in Thailand to drink fruit shakes. From watermelon to banana to durian (I dare you to try!), you’ll absolutely love drinking some fresh fruit juice along with your meal!
What are the Best Thai Street Food?
- Pad Thai (ผัดไทย)
- Guay Tiew Kua (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวคั่ว) – Noodles with Chicken
- Khao Krapow Gai Kai Dao (ผัดกระเพราไก่) – Chicken with Holy Basil on Rice with Fried egg
- Khao Soy (ข้าวซอย) – Curry Noodle Soup With Chicken, typical from Northern Thailand
Go Kayaking on the Ping River
The River Night Kayaking Trip is an excellent way to see Chiang Mai from a different perspective. The trip takes place after dark, when the river is lit up by a colorful array of lanterns.
It’s a perfect opportunity to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city while working out. And if that’s your first time kayaking, worry not: the tour guide has lots of experience and you’ll go through a quick training before leaving.
The entire trip takes about two hours, and it’s a great way to see Chiang Mai in a whole new light (or dark, for that matter).
Discover the Chiang Mai Night Safari
Get ready for an exciting evening at the Chiang Mai Zoo, where you’ll be able to see nocturnal animals like never before.
The safari tours start at 3.00 or 5.00 PM and while you can see more animals in the afternoon, it’s much more unique at the later time. Plus, it’s a great activity to enjoy at night in Chiang Mai before dinner.
I recommend pre-booking your tickets online, which is relatively cheaper and includes transportation, as well as a guide who’ll share facts and stories.
As the sun sets, the safari comes alive. You’ll get to see a whole bunch of night-time animals in their element. It’s a whole different world out there when it’s dark, and you’re in for some amazing sights!
Don’t forget: a lot of animals are nocturnal, so this is the best place to be after sunset.
This tour is perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking to add a bit of nocturnal excitement to their Chiang Mai trip, and I’m confident you’ll have an amazing time!
Wander Around Chiang Mai Old City at Night
If you don’t fancy going too far away from your hotel, wandering around Chiang Mai’s old city will be the perfect evening for you. Stop at local markets for some late-night shopping, grab a bite at a street food stall, and pass by the iconic Tha Phae Gate.
Also, pick a bar of your choice and have a drink, watching people from all corners of the world around you. Don’t let the 700-year-old fortress walls confine you; the night is yours to spend as you please.
I find the night Chiang Mai to be more vibrant, more exciting, and certainly more entertaining. The temples are also nicer at night, I’d recommend exploring Wat Chedi Luang!
Thailand is also home to Muay Thai, and what better place than Chiang Mai to experience the real thing and see a match in the evening?
Finally, if you’re up for it, why not get a Thai massage? It’s cheap, relaxing, and it’s definitely a great idea to end the day. All in all, this is one of the best things to do at night Chiang Mai has to offer.
Stop by Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang
No trip to Chiang Mai would be complete without a visit to Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, 2 of the most beautiful Buddhist temples.
These two iconic temples are located in the heart of the city and are renowned for their beautiful architecture and stunning views.
Once the sun no longer reflects off its golden structure, it illuminates in warm orange as if taking inspiration from the monks’ robes. If you want to see a stunning temple in the heart of Chiang Mai, these are the safest bets.
During Loy Krathong, they get illuminated with hundreds of lanterns, making them even more spectacular. Make sure to stop by Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang Temples during your next trip to Chiang Mai!
Lastly, Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang are right in the Sunday night market, and you can easily see both in one night how awesome is that?
Visit Warorot Market
If you’re looking for an authentic market experience in Chiang Mai Thailand, head to Warorot Market at night. This bustling market is full of locals shopping for everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods.
The Warorot Market (also known as Kad Luang) is a must-see for foodies since it offers a variety of ready-to-eat meals, local snacks, and fresh fruits and vegetables. The market has a large section devoted to low-cost items such as clothing, fashion accessories, and personal care goods.
You can find just about anything here, and the prices are very reasonable. The atmosphere is quite lively, and it’s fun to wander around and see all the different things on offer. Just be sure to bargain hard – it’s expected!
Warorot Market is a fantastic spot to get an insight into Thai culture, with most of its customers being Thais. The three-story structure is located near the riverfront and easy to locate, just before Chang Moi Road reaches the moat and north of the Night Bazaar.
Have a Night Out at the Siam Dragon Cabaret
An amazing mix of culture, history, and entertainment, the Siam Dragon Show uses the art of cabaret to tell the stories of Thailand.
The ladyboy dancers combine the traditional Thai costumes with feathers and glitter that we’re used to seeing at a cabaret show. Also, they take the best parts of Thai culture to create an unforgettable and funny experience.
The 70-minute Siam Dragon Cabaret is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai at night.
Colorful scarfs, sparkling headdresses, and flowers will almost make you wish that the night never ends. While it’s certainly something different than usual, a ladyboy cabaret show is definitely one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai at night, if not in Thailand as a whole.
Dinner Cruise on the Ping River
If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, then a dinner cruise on the Ping River is definitely for you. As you sail down the river, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of the city skyline and the twinkling lights of the buildings reflected in the water.
And of course, the food is absolutely delicious. The chef prepares an exquisite meal using only the freshest ingredients, and you can enjoy it all while listening to live music and sipping on fine wine.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or want to treat yourself to an unforgettable night out, a dinner cruise on the river is sure to create lasting memories.
Join a Khantoke Dinner and Cultural Show
Get ready for one authentic evening with the Chiang Mai Traditional Khantoke Dinner and Cultural Show!
Picture this: you’re sitting on cozy floor mats at low tables, just like the locals do, and in front of you is a feast of homemade Thai dishes. I’m talking about tasty curries, delicious minced pork, and crispy fried pumpkin.
This is one of the best dinners you’ll have in town. But that’s not all.
During dinner, you’ll be treated to an amazing cultural show. You’ll see dancers and musicians from local hill tribes perform right in front of you. It’s an experience through Chiang Mai’s rich traditions and history, all while you’re enjoying some of the best food in town.
Everyone’s saying it’s a must-do in Chiang Mai at night, and they’re not wrong, so make sure to book it now, it’s affordable too!
Have a Massage at Nimman House
After exploring Chiang Mai or taking a day trip, what better way to relax than with a traditional massage at Nimman House? Right in the heart of the trendy Nimman area, it’s super easy to find and a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
As you step inside, you’ll feel the stress just melt away. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with soothing music and a clean, comfortable setting.
The masseurs and masseuses here really know their stuff. Whether you’re in the mood for a body massage, foot massage, oil massage, or even a face massage, they’ve got you covered, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Yes, there are many massage places in Chiang Mai, but this is by far one of the best you can book. So why wait? Check it out now and treat yourself to an unforgettable spa experience at Nimman House.
Shop at Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
The Night Bazaar is one of the best places in the city to find souvenirs, handmade goods, and local snacks. The market stretches for blocks and is full of stalls selling everything from traditional Thai clothing to wooden trinkets.
Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, it’s fun to wander around and take in the sights and sounds of the market. Be sure to bargain with the vendors – they’re expecting it! – and have some cash on hand, as many stallholders don’t accept credit cards.
The Night Bazaar is open every night from 5pm until midnight, so there’s plenty of time to explore.
Go to the Cinema at Maya Shopping Mall
Going to the cinema in Thailand, in general, is an experience unlike any other. Before the movie starts, it is customary to play the national anthem to honor the King of Thailand with everyone standing up and the lyrics appearing on the screen.
The cinema at Maya Shopping Mall in Chiang Mai is a great place to experience this tradition: it’s easily reached from any part of the city and it shows both big international hits and smaller, lesser-known films.
Stock up on popcorn and put your phones on silent! Last but not least, cinemas in Thailand are incredibly cheap and have subtitles in English for all locals and tourists to understand.
Nightlife in Chiang Mai: The Best Bars & Clubs
Now, if you’re into clubbing or having drinks outside, this is the section you need. Here below, I’ll go through some of the best bars and clubs that you can’t miss when checking the nightlife in Chiang Mai.
Bar: Myst at Maya
Myst is an interesting place that has brought molecular cocktails to Chiang Mai. The bar is on the top of the new mall called Maya, just like their branch in Bangkok.
This is not a common thing for backpackers who are trying to save money but it can be seen as an experience and I highly recommend spending one night here.
Bar & Club: Warm Up Café
Although the Warm Up on Nimmanhaemin Road is a coffee shop, it can’t be said that people come here to have a coffee. This club in Chiang Mai is more well-known as being the city’s best club.
You can enjoy a pleasant evening outside, but it is recommended to be there early enough because you will find out that it is crowded and noisy.
Bar: Good View Bar & Restaurant
Next to Chiang Mai’s River Ping, this long-running riverside cafe keeps things simple with a robust food and drink selection delivered (with a smile) all day. The main indoor area is substantial, and the nightly live band keeps things lively.
However, Good View’s major selling point is its location on the riverbanks (although seating next to the water’s edge is rather limited). To avoid having to sit near the water, arrive before sunset (when all locals are still at work), or reserve a table through the contact information below.
All in all, Good View is simply one of the Chiang Mai hidden gems.
Night Club: Zoe in Yellow
Your number one spot to dance the night away in Chiang Mai. If you want to have a party to remember long after you leave Thailand, head straight to downtown Chiang Mai and follow the sound of music until you reach Zoe in Yellow.
Zoe in Yellow attracts everyone who wants to have a good time and aims to please with dance music and an endless flow of alcohol.
Whether you’re by yourself and want to make new friends or with a group of people looking to have the time of their lives, Zoe in Yellow is the right place to be.
Things to Do in Chiang Mai at Night – FAQ
How to Get Around Chiang Mai in the Night?
It’s true that there are many transportation options available for tourists here. From Songthaew (public minibuses), tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws), and Grab taxis or scooters. They are all a good choice if you want to take a trip across town quickly.
I tend to prefer Songthaew since you get to meet other people and it can easily end up in a fun night out. Also, they’re cheap, and for 30 THB (less than $1), you’ll get anywhere around the old city, Nimman, or Santitham.
That said, Grab taxis are also very convenient and relatively cheap. Another option for late-night travel is to use Grab taxis. Using the mobile app is your best chance to get good rates and getting a car quickly, no matter if you’re coming from a popular spot or your hotel.
How Many Days to Stay in Chiang Mai?
If you planned more than 10 days in Thailand, I’d recommend spending at least three full days in Chiang Mai. During the first day, you’ll get to visit an elephant sanctuary and go for a bicycle tour at night.
On the second day, you’ll visit the most important temples in town and party all night long in the old city. Lastly, on the 3rd day, you can join a tour of Chiang Rai and its White Temple while enjoying a stroll at a night market.
Of course, if you have more time available, you’ll fall in love with Chiang Mai and there are endless activities both during the day and at night.
The old town is easily accessible on foot, but there are also many other attractions to see in Chiang Mai. There are many sights to see like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (Temple on the Hill), Wat Chedi Luang (Royal Monastery), and Doi Suthep.
What to Do in Chiang Mai for Free at Night?
Thailand is cheap and that comes with no surprise, but you can even do better than that and find free activities. In Chiang Mai, you’ll get to walk around the night markets during the weekend and at the night bazaar during the week. Sure, you can go ahead and buy some souvenirs, but there’s no entrance fee.
Also, the Ping river is lovely at night and I’m pretty confident you’ll enjoy a peaceful moment whether you’re with friends or your other half.
Moreover, there are over 300 temples in Chiang Mai and visiting them at night is free and you surely have a great moment praying and listening to the monks chanting.
Conclusion: What to Do in Chiang Mai at Night
Chiang Mai has many options for those who want to enjoy the nightlife. From rooftop bars with a view of the city to live music and clubbing, there is something for everyone in Chiang Mai.
The best part is that most of these activities are relatively cheap compared to other cities, as Northern Thailand is cheaper than other regions.
From watching the sunset from Doi Suthep to having a Thai massage to going to a Muay Thai match and ending the day with a Khao Soy, I’m pretty sure you’ll have the time of your life in Chiang Mai.
