Things To Do
in Chom Thong
Chom Thong is a scenic district just southwest of Chiang Mai, offering lush hills, temple complexes, and rural charm. It serves as a gateway to the northern countryside and nearby mountain landscapes. Visitors can explore traditional markets, hill tribe villages, and tranquil temples away from the city crowds.
The area is well suited as a base for day trips to Doi Inthanon and other forested areas while enjoying northern Thai hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival at Chom Thong, settle into your chosen accommodation and freshen up. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to absorb the local atmosphere. Stop by a nearby café for a traditional Thai breakfast to kickstart your adventure.
Explore the nearby Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong temple, famous for its stunning golden chedi. Engage with friendly locals and learn about the cultural significance of the temple. Afterward, enjoy a scenic drive through the surrounding hills to admire the lush landscapes.
As the sun sets, find a local restaurant to indulge in authentic Thai cuisine. Taste signature dishes such as Pad Thai or Tom Yum while soaking in the picturesque views of the mountains. End your day with a relaxed walk under the starlit sky.
Start early and head to Doi Inthanon National Park, known for its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails. Begin your day with a hike to the impressive Wachiratharn Waterfall, where you can enjoy the refreshing spray of water. Make sure to visit the King and Queen pagodas for breathtaking panoramic views.
Continue exploring the park with a guided nature walk to discover the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the area. Visit the local hill tribe villages to gain insight into their traditional way of life. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the serene beauty of nature.
Return to Chom Thong to unwind after a day of adventure. Consider joining a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Thai dishes. Relish the flavors of the meal you’ve created, paired with a local herbal tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Public transport or local taxi short ride | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $15-25 |
| 🍺Beer or cocktail | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to tranquil rural scenery near Chiang Mai
- Affordable food and lodging in the area
- Rich northern Thai culture and temples
- Good base for short hikes and nature trips
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Some attractions require driving on winding rural roads
- Smaller scale than Chiang Mai city for shopping and entertainment
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (male/female)
- "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you (male/female)
- "หาซื้อที่ไหนครับ/คะ" - Where can I buy this?
- "ราคาประมาณเท่าไหร่" - How much is this?
- "อาหารอร่อยมาก" - The food is very delicious
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Chom Thong
Visit one of these nice places.
Temple complex with a gold chedi and surrounding pavilions; great for golden hour photography and shadow play on the architecture.
Lush forests and streams along the routes to Chom Thong; best in early morning light or after rain.
Panoramic valley and mountain views; ideal for wide landscape shots during clear mornings.
Vibrant daily life with colorful stalls and locals going about their routines; great for candid photography.
Food in Chom Thong
Chom Thong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy coconut curry noodle soup with crispy egg noodles on top; widely available in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Herbaceous pork sausage flavored with lemongrass, kaffir lime, and chili; best grilled and served with sticky rice.
A tomato-chili dip served with fresh vegetables and boiled eggs; a staple in northern Thai meals.
Burmese-influenced pork curry with turmeric and pickled garlic; pairs well with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, herbs, noodles, and street snacks; go early for best selection.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered; remove shoes before entering temple buildings; practice a respectful wai.
Use a wai combined with a smile; bow your head slightly to show respect.
Do not point feet at people or religious objects; avoid touching heads.
Safety
Tipping in Chom Thong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small tips (20-50 THB) in cafes or guides are common.
Cash (Thai Baht) is widely used; cards are accepted in larger shops and some restaurants; always have cash for markets and street stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with temperatures often in the high 30s C; stay hydrated, plan early morning activities, and seek shade in treed areas.
Frequent showers and high humidity; trails can be slippery; carry rain gear and water-resistant footwear.
Pleasant daytime temperatures and cooler nights; fog and mist possible in valleys; ideal for outdoor photography and hiking.
Chom Thong at Night
Hiking in Chom Thong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Seasonal nature trail with cloud forests and panoramic views; permits may be required.
Forest trails around the Mae Klang area with waterfalls and viewpoints.
Relaxed day hikes with coffee stops and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Chom Thong by plane.
Major gateway to the region; about 1–1.5 hours by car from Chom Thong depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Northern Thai (Lanna) communities with Buddhist traditions.
Smaller groups including hill-tribe villages with distinct cultures and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing; gyms and events are common in Chiang Mai and nearby towns.
Flat and hilly routes around Chom Thong are popular among cyclists, especially early mornings.
Short to medium hikes to viewpoints and waterfalls in the surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chom Thong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Northern dishes include pork or fish sauce. Ask for 'jay' (vegetarian) or request no fish sauce, no crab paste, and no meat; opt for stir-fried vegetables with tofu and fresh fruits.