Top Free Experiences in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Many experiences in Chiang Mai are ideal for the budget traveler – grazing on street food, enjoying relaxing traditional Thai massages, sipping red iced tea, and renting a scooter to buzz out to waterfalls and hot springs. However, everyone knows that the best things in life are free. Consequently, Chiang Mai offers a plethora of experiences that cost absolutely nothing at all.
Start with the city’s myriad ancient wat (Buddhist monasteries), most of which can be visited any day of the week without paying an entry fee. Moreover, Chiang Mai’s mesmerizing markets allow you to immerse yourself in local culture without spending a baht—if you can resist the urge to splash out on drool-inducing street food and incredibly artful handicrafts.
1. Marvel at Chiang Mai’s Best Monasteries
More than 100 ancient monasteries dot the streets of Chiang Mai’s historic center, and most can be enjoyed for free, although donations are appreciated (and Thai visitors usually make a contribution). Start with the standout locations like Wat Phan Tao, which features astonishing teak pillars, and the exquisitely adorned Wat Phra Singh.
The only monasteries where you’ll need to pay an entry fee are Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Bupparam, Wat Suan Dok, and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. However, these entry fees are modest, typically less than 40B, around the price of a plate of fried rice.
Don’t overlook the city’s outlying monasteries; beyond the historic center, Wat Chet Yot showcases stucco depictions of devas, while Wat Umong Maha Therachan features a maze of brick passageways developed in the 14th century.
2. Chat with a Buddhist Monk
Chiang Mai’s organized Monk Chat sessions offer fascinating insights and are free of charge. At monasteries like Wat Suan Dok and Wat Srisuphan, monks with strong English skills share their experiences and stories with travelers. Most chat sessions are held on weekdays and often include follow-on meditation sessions.
3. Take a Walking Street Wander
Chiang Mai’s Walking Street markets are vibrant weekend events packed with vendors selling crafts and delectable street food, accompanied by street performers. On Saturday and Sunday, different streets host these bustling markets, making it a perfect opportunity to soak in the local atmosphere.
4. Explore the Ruins of Chiang Mai’s First City
The remains of Wiang Kum Kam, Chiang Mai’s first royal city, lie peacefully outside modern Chiang Mai. This collection of brick stupas and monasteries can be explored on foot, providing a glimpse into the history of the Lanna capital.
5. Listen to Live Music Over a Cold Chang Beer
Immerse yourself in Chiang Mai’s lively music scene; venues typically don’t charge a cover fee, though a drink purchase is required. The North Gate Jazz Co-Op is a popular location, featuring a variety of musicians and genres. Other notable places for free live music include local bars where you can enjoy everything from blues to acoustic sessions.
6. Enjoy the View for Free
To take in the stunning landscape of Chiang Mai, head up to higher vantage points such as Wat Phra That Doi Kham, where a terrace offers sweeping views of the rooftops against the backdrop of the mountains.
7. Drop by for Yoga in the Park
For yoga enthusiasts on a budget, check out free classes at Suan Buak Hat Park. Local instructors offer sessions in a serene setting, providing an opportunity to practice yoga without a fee.
8. Hike Up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
While there’s a small fee to enter Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the hike to this breathtaking mountain monastery offers one of the most enjoyable experiences in Chiang Mai. The path behind the zoo leads you through lush tropical forest landscapes.
9. Learn How to Meditate
Chiang Mai is an excellent place to explore vipassana meditation, with various centers offering sessions that are donation-based. Many holistic centers provide free opportunities to experience meditation alongside paid classes.
10. Bathe in a Waterfall
Some spectacular waterfalls are free, including the lovely Huay Kaew Waterfall at the base of Doi Suthep. For those willing to venture a little further, Nam Tok Bua Tong, known as the “Sticky Waterfall,” invites visitors to relax without worrying about slipping.
11. Eat at the Vegetarian Society
In Chiang Mai, the Vegetarian Society serves delicious vegan Thai dishes for incredibly low prices. Located on Thanon Mahidol, it’s an excellent place for filling meals that can start as low as 5B, with some offerings available for free.
12. Marvel at Chiang Mai’s Magical Festivals
Many of Chiang Mai’s vibrant festivals, such as Songkran and Loi Krathong, are free to observe and participate in, although travelers should plan for increased prices for accommodation and transport during peak festival times.
This article was first published Sep 20, 2019 and updated Dec 9, 2023.
