The Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai on a Rainy Day
Rainy season in Chiang Mai lasts from June-October but don’t let that deter you from planning a trip here. Rain typically happens for a short period sporadically in the afternoon or evening, but on the days it just won’t stop, here is a list of recommendations beyond cafes, temples, Muay Thai, cooking classes and massages (although all are also recommended and beloved).
A quick note: Hours and admission prices can change, so it's always worth checking before you head out.
The Museum of Broken Relationships
There's something oddly fitting about wandering through a museum dedicated to heartbreak while it's pouring outside. The Museum of Broken Relationships is filled with personal objects donated from people around the world, each accompanied by the story behind the relationship it came from. Some are heartbreaking, some are hilarious, and some will leave you sitting with your own thoughts for a while.
Admission is 200 baht. 10:00 am-10:00 pm Mon-Sun.
Central Festival has something for everyone. Besides shopping, arcades and lots and lots of food options, the mall also has:
Free. 11:00 am-9:00 pm Mon-Thu, 11:00 am-10:00 pm Fri, 10:00 am-10:00 pm Sat, 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sun.
Xventure — 8 different zones which include a slide park, ropes course, zipline + more! A great option to let some energy out.
Admission is around 300-800 baht depending on ticket type. 11:00 am-8:00 pm Mon-Thu, 11:00 am-9:00 pm Fri, 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sat & Sun.
Major Cineplex — 9+ theaters including IMAX, 4DX, kids’ theater (wait, so cute) & a VIP option with a butler and even appetizers. Honestly, I’m not a movie person so I don’t even know the difference between these so hopefully you do! Get cozy. Get comfy.
Tickets range from 280 baht for a regular seat to 1,300 baht for a double sofa (pair). Open 10:30 am-last showing Mon-Sun.
Afternoon tea
If the weather insists on slowing you down, lean into it. Both Anantara & 137 Pillars offer exceptional afternoon tea experiences.
Anantara’s afternoon tea cruise on the Ping River is a lovely afternoon activity and shows a different perspective of Chiang Mai. In our group of four, we had a private small boat with wonderfully attentive staff. I will say, even with a sweet tooth, I couldn’t eat all the desserts that were provided! The package is around 1,300 baht/pp, which is an amazing deal IMO. The service runs from 2:00 pm-5:00 pm every day. Book in advance via their website.
137 Pillars’ afternoon tea service is another great option, with this experience being on land. The tea service is beautifully displayed and draws inspiration from the forests of Northern Thailand, specifically during the monsoon season. The service is around 1,000 baht/pp and runs from 12:00 pm-5:00 pm every day.
Tarot reading at Hecate Tarot
I’m not super into astrology but I do enjoy the occasional tarot reading when I’m feeling a little lost or unsure about something. I recently discovered highly rated Hecate Tarot here in town. No wonder she has 5 stars across the board. She's incredibly warm, speaks excellent English, never rushes you, and genuinely wants you to understand your reading — not just get through it. One thing I especially love is that every reading helps support the foster animals she cares for. There are usually cats wandering around the studio, and honestly, that's part of the charm. If you're looking for something sleek and luxurious, this probably isn't your place. But if the idea of a kitten deciding your tarot cards are actually its bed sounds like your dream afternoon... You'll probably love it as much as I did.
Donation-based. Appointment only. 11:00 am-11:00 pm Mon-Sat, 11:00 am-2:00 pm Sun.
Shopping & drinks at Mimosa + See You Soon
One evening, I stumbled into Mimosa and fell in love with their selection of printed bags and pouches (bag people, stand up) and learned that they have a sister store, See You Soon, which is even larger and more jam-packed with so many cool items. Both shops have an eclectic mix of clothing, jewelry, home goods, accessories, gifts, and little things you absolutely don't need but somehow convince yourself you do. They also offer coffee, cocktails and brunch. Highly recommend if you like to shop for cool things.
Mimosa’s hours are 7:00 am-10:00 pm. See You Soon’s hours are 6:30 am-11:00 pm.
Cat cafe (ok - I get to add ONE cafe). IMO, one of the more ethical animal cafes).
There are a few in the city and I haven’t been able to check out all of them yet, but Mali Cat Cafe & Bar is close to where I live and I miss my cats back home, so I’ve visited a few times. They’re all designer cats with big eyes and soft fur, except for one mofo who is the complete opposite. You’ll see him. Admission includes a drink, and I appreciate that they take the cats' wellbeing seriously. Visitors have to wash their hands, wear the provided socks, and follow rules like not picking the cats up. Every time I've visited, I've seen the staff cuddling the cats, cleaning their ears, and genuinely caring for them.
Admission (including 1 drink) starts at 250 baht per hour. 9:00 am-midnight daily.
An artist studio that is sure to bring a pop of color into your day. A cool place to find art, gifts, souvenirs, and possibly even attend one of their risograph workshops (check Instagram for the schedule, 16+).
Workshop prices vary. 11:00 am-6:00 pm Mon-Fri.
Thrifting
Another area Chiang Mai isn’t lacking in. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled because thrift stores are hidden in so many nooks, crannies, pop-up shops and tiny alleyways. Some places to start your list should include:
Lucgygirl’s Vintage — a girls’ vintage paradise with tons of jewelry + multiple locations. Open 11:00 am-8:00 pm daily.
Tiger Second Hand — an amazing place to sift through on a rainy afternoon. Open 9:00 am-7:00 pm daily.
Grateful Best — located near Maya Mall, this shop is beautifully curated + open from 1:00 pm-10:00 pm daily.
Silver Jewelry Making at Lanna Artisans Gallery
I’m biased, but I think that making a souvenir keychain either for yourself or a friend is the move. Feel free to steal my design. Not only is it cute, but it also makes sense for me as a not-super-artistic person who does not want to wear their bad design on their finger lmao. To get there, head to Wat Sri Suphan (the silver temple) just south of the old city and you’ll find a few outdoor shops where you can design your own ring, bracelet, or keychain for just 50 baht each. I’d allocate an hour or two for this depending on how many items you want to make and make sure to bring a water bottle! There are some fans, but since it is outdoors (under a tent), it can still get pretty warm. Hours are generally 9:00 am-5:00 pm daily.
Indoor Rock Climbing / Bouldering
I’ve never been climbing in Chiang Mai, but my friends constantly rave about it so maybe you’ll love it too!
Main Wall Climbing Gym - Day passes are 340-400 baht. 11:00 am-9:00 pm Mon-Fri. 9:00 am-8:00 pm Sat & Sun.
Progression - Day passes are 200-250 baht. 11:00 am-8:00 pm Mon-Fri. 10:00 am-8:00 pm Sat & Sun.
Sometimes embracing the rain is just the move. Huay Tung Tao Reservoir is surrounded by bamboo huts that are dreamy to sit in and soak in the atmosphere during the afternoon rain. Or to lay there and feed your existential crisis about how to move to Thailand. Vendors regularly wander by with snacks and drinks, so you're never far from a cold beer or a plate of food. And because this is Thailand, there's even a phone number you can call to have someone come directly to your hut for a massage.
I love Thailand.
Admission to the lake is 50 baht for foreigners and 20 baht for locals. 8:00 am-6:00 pm daily.
This community gem is on the 3rd floor of the building. I’ve only attended the Friday night event, but I’ve heard great things about the events they offer during the week, including things like sound baths, DIY crafts like perfume making & drawing. They also have a coffee shop and snacks so you can always stop by for those!
Workshop prices vary. Some events are free. Check out their Instagram for more info. 9:00 am-5:00 pm Tues-Sun.
