If you're starting to think that all of Thailand's temples look the same, hold off until you've seen Wat Sri Suphan. Located just off Thanon Wualai, this holy spot sits around the historical home of the city's silver craftsmen. In an attempt to keep the tradition alive, Wat Sri Suphan is set to be the world's first all silver shrine. Skilfully hammered, intricate metalwork designs can be seen to the right of the main building, while over the over side of the complex is an onsite workshop where artists are working away.

Daily 0900-2100.

No

More than 700 years ago, Chiang Mai was the capital of the north. While much has changed, the city's importance and influence has continued through the years. For anyone interested in better understanding the region and its history, the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre (located behind the Three Kings statue) is the place to start. Situated in an attractive building, smack-dab in the centre of the Old City, the museum was built in 1924 and offers visitors a look into the city's past, as well as explanations and demonstrations about northern Thailand's Lanna culture.

Tue-Sun 0830-1700.

Yes

There are several waterfalls in the area, but the most accessible is Huay Kaew Waterfall at the foot of Suthep Mountain. It's also one of the only waterfalls with free access. Not as stunning as some other locations around, it's still an enjoyable spot to wander around and get a little off the beaten path. Spend a day walking by the waterfall and taking a dip in the stream with locals.

Tue-Sun 0800-1700.

No

A manmade reservoir at the base of Suthep Mountain, Huay Tung Tao is the ideal getaway from the buzz of the city. Surrounded by green hills and misty clouds, you'd never know you're less than 30 minutes from Chiang Mai's centre. Here you can wander the walking and biking trails, lounge in a lakeside bungalow or simply soak up the scenery. Huay Tung Tao is a local favourite, especially on the weekends, so visit during the week if you like your breathing space. The reservoir is a little too far to reach by tuk-tuk but you should be able to take a songthaew (shared taxi) here.

Daily 0730-1800.

Yes

Facing the Mae Ping River on the east side of town, Talat Ton Lamyai is Chiang Mai's open air flower market. Certainly worth a morning or evening stroll, you can even go in the middle of the night to see sellers unloading freshly cut flowers from trucks and making the elaborate floral wreaths you see decorating temples and spirit houses. There are a few floral shops specialising in arrangements, but for the most part visitors simply gawk at the never-ending bunches of roses, marigolds, orchids and jasmine blossoms sitting by the side of the street.

Daily 24 hours

No

A children crowd pleaser, this impressive gathering of thousands of different birds and animals set in pleasant grounds at the foot of Suthep Mountain began as a small collection of missionary family pets. Today you can see elephants, lions, giraffes and tigers as well as pandas from China, just by walking through the park or making use of the tram and monorail system. There is also an aquarium housing nearly 2,000 species of marine animals and a snow dome that creates a winter wonderland in the midst of Thailand's tropical heat. Entrance fees apply to the aquarium and different section of the zoo.

Daily 0800-1700.

Yes