Explore the Best Parks in Chiang Mai for Families, Fitness & Fresh Air
Chiang Mai isn’t just temples and trendy cafés—it’s alive with green spaces. From lush botanical gardens to hidden local hangouts, this city offers more parks than most visitors (or even longtime expats) realize. Whether you’re after a family-friendly playground, a shady spot for a morning jog, or a quiet corner to reconnect with nature, this guide to the best parks in Chiang Mai will help you find your rhythm outdoors.
We’ve organized this comprehensive guide by neighborhood, so you can easily explore parks near home—or plan a weekend outing to a new area. Whether you want free parks, sunset views, or places where kids can roam safely, you’ll find it here—complete with verified entrance fees, parking info, bathrooms, food tips, and what makes each place special.
To help you visualize your options, our interactive map highlights each park location as you scroll through the listings. So grab your walking shoes (or the stroller), and let’s explore the landscapes of Chiang Mai—one park at a time.
Top 5 Parks in Chiang Mai
If you’re short on time or just want the locals’ shortlist—these five parks offer the best combination of scenery, accessibility, facilities, and daily use. Whether you’re wrangling toddlers, walking the dog, or craving a quiet loop before dinner, this is where locals go.
Nong Buak Haad Public Park (Suan Buak Haad)
Inside the southwest corner of the Old City moat, this beloved public park is central, shaded, and always alive. There’s a dedicated playground, plenty of street food vendors, and a consistent local crowd—morning yoga meetups, lunchtime picnics, evening walkers. It’s the most used park in Chiang Mai and perfect for casual visits or a kid-friendly stop between errands.
Angkaew Reservoir (CMU Lake)
Tucked behind Chiang Mai University in Suthep, this lakeside spot is a favorite for walkers, joggers, and sunset watchers. In the early mornings, it’s all birdsong and runners. By late afternoon, families bring snacks, dogs roam off leash, and the mountain view reflects across the water. If you live near Nimman or Jed Yod, it’s the closest you’ll get to a mountain retreat without leaving town.
Royal Park Rajapruek
This one’s more of a destination than a daily hangout—but if you want stunning gardens, quiet paths, and space to explore with kids, Rajapruek is worth the ฿200 ticket. Originally built for the Royal Flora Expo, it’s still one of the most beautifully maintained public spaces in Northern Thailand. Great for a half-day outing, especially if you rent a golf cart or time your visit for golden hour.
Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir
Set against a lush mountain backdrop on the road up to Mae Rim, this man-made lake is a long-standing local favorite. The paved roadway looping around the lake is perfect for joggers and cyclists. Come for the lunch at the bamboo huts, enjoying fresh fish while dangling your toes into the water; stay for the straw animal sculptures and photo ops.
Chiang Mai PAO Park (Chaloem Phrakiat Park)
One of the city’s newest and most photogenic public parks—sprawling lawns, mountain views, space for real picnics, and host to the occasional expo or pop-up market . Located off Canal Road near the Chang Khian foothills, it’s become a regular spot for families, exercise groups, and anyone seeking a more open, landscaped feel.
Chiang Mai’s Parks by Neighborhood
Chiang Mai’s parks are scattered across the city, each shaped by the rhythms of its surrounding neighborhood. This section breaks them down by area—so whether you’re based near Nimman, the Old City, Riverside, or further out in Hang Dong or Mae Rim, you’ll know exactly where to head.
Use the interactive map to follow along and explore the parks closest to you. Each listing includes practical info (like parking and restrooms), local tips, and why it’s worth a visit.
Old City & South Gate
Chiang Mai parks near the Old City, perfect for quick escapes
Nong Buak Haad Park
Popular urban park perfect for walking and relaxing with beautiful flower gardens
Located in the southwest corner of the Old City moat, this beloved public park is a favorite for locals and travelers alike. With a well-shaded playground, small ponds, grassy areas, and plenty of benches, it’s one of Chiang Mai’s most accessible and lively green spaces. Come for tai chi at sunrise, kids’ playtime in the late afternoon, or people-watching at any hour.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Ample street parking is often available around the perimeter, though it can get busy. Clean public restrooms are located within the park, near the main entrance.
Kanchanaphisek Park
Narrow shaded park with historic defensive wall and children's play area
A tucked-away gem south of the moat, this shaded park features a looped walking path and some quiet corners for reflection. Lesser known among tourists, it’s a favorite among locals who live nearby, and its historical touch—fragments of the old outer city wall—adds subtle character.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Ample dedicated parking is available. Clean public restrooms are provided on-site.
Hai Ya Garden
Peaceful garden park in Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center
Tucked behind the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center, Hai Ya Garden is more of a hidden green nook than a full-fledged park—but it’s charming in its own right. Centered around a small pond and shaded by mature trees, it offers a peaceful place to sit, relax, or stroll for a few minutes between errands. While it’s not ideal for long walks, it often hosts small festivals and pop-up markets that bring a lively community feel to the space.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Parking available for customers of the Cultural Center (validation may be required), with limited street parking nearby
Nimmanhaemin & Suthep Area
Explore Chiang Mai parks near Nimman and the Doi Suthep foothills
Princess Mother’s Health Garden
Peaceful shaded park with walking trails and outdoor exercise stations
This health-focused park near Suthep Road is a favorite for morning walkers and tai chi groups. Officially Suan Sukkhaphap Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Boromarajonani, this park honoring the late Princess Mother emphasizes well-being with exercise equipment, quiet landscaping, and wide walking paths shaded by old-growth trees.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Designated parking lots are available. Well-maintained public restrooms are provided within the park.
Huay Kaew Arboretum
Peaceful botanical garden with walking trails and outdoor exercise equipment
Right before the road winds into the mountains toward Doi Suthep, this peaceful arboretum offers an “outdoor museum of trees” with labeled species and well-maintained paths. It’s popular with botanists, students, and families who come for nature walks and shady playtime.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Limited parking at the main entrance, but street parking is available along the road nearby. Clean public restrooms are on-site near the entrance.
Ang Kaew Resorvoir
Scenic reservoir perfect for jogging walking and sunset views with mountain backdrop
This scenic lake inside Chiang Mai University is a beloved local hangout spot. Mornings bring joggers and dog walkers; evenings draw students, families, and couples for the cool breeze and perfect sunset views over Doi Suthep. A paved walking loop surrounds the lake, and university cafés nearby make this a great mid-day escape from Nimman.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Parking is available within the university campus, though it can be busy during university hours. Public restrooms are located near the main entrance areas.
Wat Ket & Riverside
Discover Chiang Mai parks along the Ping River, offering scenic views and a different urban vibe
Charoen Prathet Public Park
Hidden gem public park perfect for peaceful relaxation and light exercise
A small riverside park tucked into the Wat Ket neighborhood, just off Charoen Prathet Road. Though compact, it offers shady benches, trees, and a quiet break from the bustle of riverside traffic. A nice place to pause if you’re walking or biking along the Ping, or waiting out midday heat. A small playground provides entertainment for the kids.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Limited street parking is often available along Charoen Prathet Road. Public restrooms are located within the park.
Chiang Mai Railway Station Park
Chiang Mai Railway Station Park
Spacious new public park next to the train station with exercise areas and walking paths
Directly across from the train station, this is one of the city’s newest upgraded parks. Built around a pond and small Buddha pavilion, it now includes a playground, open lawn space, and even an outdoor gym. It’s a clean and quiet option in a transport-heavy part of town and a welcome addition for local families.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Large, dedicated parking areas are available at the railway station. Modern public restrooms are available within the park.
Ban Den Park
Community park with playground walking trails and Japanese garden
Arguably on the Pa Daet side of the river, this community park hugs the southern end of the Ping and serves as a green space for nearby residents. With fruit trees, shaded benches, and a cozy playground, it has the feel of a true neighborhood garden. Ideal for a stop on the way south, or if you’re exploring the lesser-known riverside. It’s not as well kept up as some of the public parks closer to the city, but it does offer manicured walking paths and a playground.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Limited street parking is typically available directly outside the park. Basic public restrooms are on-site.
Mae Hia, Hang Dong & Southwest Chiang Mai
This cluster covers the Mae Hia and Hang Dong areas, known for larger residential developments and expansive green spaces
Royal Park Rajapruek
Beautiful botanical and cultural park with epic playground and bug museum
Located just off Canal Road, this expansive botanical garden was originally built for the Royal Flora Expo and remains one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic green spaces. Its stunning international gardens, formal landscaping, and the grand Ho Kham Royal Pavilion make it a top choice for photographers, families, and anyone seeking a full-day outing. Families should not miss out on the huge playground and indoor Insect Museum. Bicycle rentals and free trams are available to help you cover its vast grounds.
Even without going inside the park, you can enjoy plenty of space for a long jog and access to free outdoor exercise equipment and a slightly rundown but serviceable playground.
- Entrance Fee: ฿200 Foreigners / ฿100 Thai adults
- Facilities: Very large, dedicated parking lots are available at multiple entrances. Excellent, clean public restrooms are widely available throughout the park.
EVO Park
Premium sports pitch rental facility with grassy park and event space
Tucked down a small soi in Ban Waen, this lesser-known spot is associated with Chiang Mai Montessori International School with a big sports field and community park, occasionally used for events.
- Entrance Fee: Open by reservation or for events.
- Facilities: Ample on-site parking is available. Restrooms are provided at the nearby school.
Lake Aunjai Reservoir
Scenic reservoir on CMU's southern agricultural campus perfect for walking and picnics
Southwest of town in Mae Hia, Lake Aunjai offers a quiet, natural-feeling escape—popular with locals for its calm water views and potential for low-key fishing or reflection. With minimal development, it’s a relaxing spot to bring your own coffee and enjoy a bit of solitude, especially during sunrise or sunset. Most people know this area as part of Fernpresso by Lake cafe, but it’s actually part of CMU’s sprawling agricultural campus.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Informal parking is available along the reservoir’s edge. Restrooms for customers at Fernpresso cafe.
Chang Phueak & North Gate
This cluster focuses on parks just north of the Old City, within the Chang Phueak area, and easily accessible from the North Gate
Chiang Mai PAO Park
Beautiful sprawling park perfect for relaxation exercise and cultural events
Chiang Mai PAO Park, also known as Chiang Mai Chaloem Phrakiat Park, is one of Chiang Mai’s newest and most beautiful public parks, located just off Canal Road near the Chang Khian area. Landscaped with wide open lawns, mountain vistas, and artfully designed plantings, it offers a rare spaciousness and polish that gives it a slightly “foreign” feel. Very popular with local families, content creators, and anyone seeking a quiet place to picnic, jog, or take golden hour photos.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Extensive dedicated parking areas are available. Modern, clean public restrooms are well-maintained and available.
Rama IX Lanna Park
Peaceful hidden gem park perfect for quiet walks and sunset views
Named in honor of King Rama IX, this huge green space offers a peaceful place for morning walks or low-key exercise. Located north of town off the Chotana highway, it’s less well known but was a staple of my childhood for picnics and kite flying.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Dedicated parking lots are available. Public restrooms are provided.
Mae Rim
Discover expansive parks truly within the Mae Rim district, offering cooler climates and deep natural beauty
Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir
Peaceful lakeside retreat with floating bamboo hut restaurants and scenic mountain views
A local favorite for weekend escapes, this man-made lake is encircled by bamboo huts, restaurants, and scenic backdrops. While swimming is allowed in designated areas, it’s more common to come for lakeside dining, photo ops (like the straw King Kong statues), or a long bike ride. Note that stray dogs in the area may be territorial—dog owners should use caution.
- Entrance Fee: ฿20 foreigners
- Facilities: Extensive parking is available around the reservoir, especially near the dining areas. Public restrooms are available, though quality can vary between restaurant zones.
Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden
Stunning botanical garden with diverse plant collections and peaceful atmosphere perfect for nature lovers
Located deeper into Mae Rim, this is Thailand’s premier botanical garden, known for its hilltop glasshouses, treetop canopy walkway, and educational exhibits. It offers a cool-weather retreat surrounded by mountains, with plenty of paths for walking, photo-taking, and plant discovery. Excellent for families, plant lovers, or anyone craving mountain air.
- Entrance Fee: ฿100 Foreigners / ฿50 Thai adults
- Facilities: Excellent, large, dedicated parking areas are provided. Numerous well-maintained and clean restrooms are available throughout the vast garden.
San Sai & Northeast Chiang Mai
Explore parks in San Sai and the growing communities northeast of Chiang Mai
Changthong Heritage Park
Beautiful heritage park with ancient trees waterfalls and peaceful walking trails
A beautifully designed private botanical garden nestled just north of the city, near the border of San Sai and Mae Rim. This tranquil escape offers a curated collection of rare and indigenous plants, serene water features, and quiet walking paths. Its emphasis on Thai horticulture and moss gardens creates a peaceful and visually striking atmosphere that feels more like a living museum than a park.
- Entrance Fee: Yes (฿250 Foreigners / ฿150 Thai adults)
- Facilities: Ample on-site parking and clean restrooms available.
Tweechol Botanical Garden
Beautiful botanical garden showcasing diverse plant collections and peaceful walking paths
A favorite for families and nature lovers, this large private park blends resort-style amenities with lush gardens and recreational options. Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake, exploring themed flower gardens, cycling, and letting kids burn energy on the playground. It’s especially popular for school outings and slow weekends.
- Entrance Fee: Yes (฿100 Foreigners / ฿50 Thai adults)
- Facilities: Excellent parking, multiple restrooms, and on-site dining options.
San Sai Luang Municipality Public Park
24-hour public park perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation
A modest but well-kept local park with playground that offers a convenient place for walking, resting, and casual family outings. While it may not be a major destination, it serves its surrounding community well and often hosts local events or recreational programs.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Dedicated parking and public restrooms on-site.
Suan Kaew Kham Oey
Simple dog and kid-friendly park with walking paths around a pond
A well kept community space with a big walking path that encircles a pond. For kids there’s a sprawling sandpit and wooden swings and play structures.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Street parking nearby, no restrooms on-site.
Chiang Mai 700 Years Park
Peaceful park with wooded walking trails and fish pond hidden within a highway overpass
One of the most versatile and spacious parks in Chiang Mai, this government-developed green space was built to commemorate the city’s 700-year anniversary. It’s a favorite for joggers, cyclists, and families, with smooth paths, open lawns, and a calm, friendly vibe. The scale and layout make it ideal for everything from stroller walks to serious training runs.
Not to be confused with the 700 Years Stadium which is located on the west side of town off the Canal Road.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Facilities: Extensive parking and well-maintained restrooms throughout the park.
Chiang Mai Parks: Common Questions
Are Chiang Mai parks free or what does it cost to visit?
Most of Chiang Mai’s public parks offer free entry, making them excellent budget-friendly options for recreation. These include popular spots like Buak Haad Public Park, Chiang Mai 700 Years Park, Chiang Mai Chaloem Phrakiat Park (PAO Park), Angkaew Reservoir, Princess Mother’s Health Garden, San Sai Luang Municipality Public Park, Ban Den Park, Charoen Prathet Public Park, Chiang Mai Railway Station Park, Rama IX Lanna Park, Kanchanaphisek Park, Huay Kaew Arboretum, and Suan Kaew Kham Oey.
However, several parks and botanical gardens do have entrance fees:
- Royal Park Rajapruek: Foreigners pay ฿200 (adults), ฿150 (children). Thai nationals have a lower fee.
- Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir: Foreigners pay a small entry fee, typically ฿20 per person.
- Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden: Foreigners pay ฿100 (adults), ฿50 (children/students). Thai nationals have a lower fee.
- Tweechol Botanical Garden: Foreigners pay ฿100 (adults), ฿50 (children). Thai nationals have a lower fee.
- Changthong Heritage Park: Private park with an entrance fee (฿250 for foreigners, ฿150 for Thais).
When planning a visit, you may also want to factor in potential costs for food and drinks or bicycle and golf cart rentals, which are separate from entrance fees.
What time do parks open in Chiang Mai?
Most public parks open at dawn (around 5:00 AM) and close around 9:00 PM. However, some like Angkaew Reservoir and other outdoor spaces might be accessible 24/7. Premium parks like Royal Park Rajapruek typically open 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Always check for individual park timings if you plan to visit at the very start or end of the day.
What’s the best time of day to visit parks?
Early morning (typically 6:00-8:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM) are consistently the ideal times to visit parks in Chiang Mai. These hours offer cooler temperatures and beautiful lighting, making outdoor activities much more comfortable. Many locals exercise in parks during these times, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Visiting during these periods also helps avoid the midday heat, especially in the hot season.
How do I get to parks in Chiang Mai?
Most parks within or close to the city center are easily accessible by various local transport options. Songthaews (red trucks), tuk-tuks, or ride-hailing services like Grab/Bolt are readily available. Parks like Buak Hard are even within comfortable walking distance from many parts of the Old City. For parks located further afield, such as Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir, Royal Park Rajapruek, Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, or Tweechol Botanical Garden, renting a scooter or taking a taxi is generally the most convenient and recommended way to get there.
Are there restrooms at Chiang Mai parks?
Yes, all major parks in Chiang Mai are equipped with public restrooms for visitors’ convenience. While the overall quality can vary depending on the park, facilities at premium locations like Royal Park Rajapruek have excellent and consistently clean restrooms. Smaller community parks typically provide basic but adequate restroom facilities.
What should I bring to Chiang Mai parks?
When visiting Chiang Mai parks, essentials include water to stay hydrated and insect repellent, especially during humid months or near water bodies. Comfortable walking shoes are important, and bringing a picnic mat is popular for family outings. Most of the parks we mentioned have paved paths suitable for strollers, ensuring accessibility for families with young children. And, of course, don’t forget your camera to capture the beautiful scenery!
Are Chiang Mai parks safe for families?
Yes, Chiang Mai parks are generally very safe for families. They’re well-maintained public spaces, often regularly patrolled, and are highly popular with local families who frequent them for exercise and relaxation. As with any public space, it’s always wise to exercise normal precautions like actively supervising young children – particularly near water features.
Which Chiang Mai parks have playgrounds for children?
The following parks mentioned in this article offer playgrounds for children:
- Nong Buak Haad Public Park – Dedicated playground and shaded lawn area.
- Royal Park Rajapruek – Huge wooden playground zone alongside the gardens.
- Chiang Mai Railway Station Park – Features a new playground.
- Tweechol Botanical Garden – Includes a children’s playground.
- Ban Den Park – Offers play structures suitable for kids.
- San Sai Luang Municipality Public Park – Includes a public playground.
- Suan Kaew Kham Oey – Community space with a sandpit, play structures, and a swing.
Which Chiang Mai park is best for jogging or walking?
Whether you’re training for distance or taking a relaxing stroll, here are the top parks—ranked by popularity and accessibility—with notes to help you choose the right fit:
Ang Kaew Reservoir (CMU campus)
Jogging: 2.5 km paved loop with light traffic and beautiful mountain views. Ideal for intervals, casual runs, and morning laps.
Walking: Very popular with locals. Partially shaded, benches available, especially scenic at sunrise or sunset.
700 Years Park
Jogging: Chiang Mai’s best dedicated running space. Long flat loops, a proper running track, and quiet internal roads.
Walking: Open and spacious but lacks shade. Visit in the early morning or evening. Some outdoor fitness stations.
PAO Park (Chaloem Phrakiat Park)
Jogging: Wide, well-kept paths and plenty of space. Suitable for loops, casual runs, or kids on scooters.
Walking: Popular with families. Shady spots, benches, and a nice mix of trees and open lawns.
Aunjai Reservoir (Mae Hia Agricultural Campus)
Jogging: Less trafficked, spacious, peaceful. Paved and dirt paths with partial shade. A favorite among local runners.
Walking: Relaxed rural feel. Good for reflective strolls or walking with friends. Bring water.
Royal Park Rajapruek (outside grounds)
Jogging: The landscaped main entrance and surrounding roads have great sidewalks and minimal traffic—ideal for tempo runs.
Walking: Lovely quiet loop early in the day. Entry fee applies for the interior gardens, but even outside is rewarding.
Rama IX Lanna Park
Jogging: Short loop around a lake, flat and well-maintained. Better for short runs or recovery days.
Walking: Shaded areas and peaceful vibe make this a pleasant place for light exercise.
Kanchanaphisek Park
Jogging: Small but quiet, with a decent loop under the trees. Limited distance, but good for a light jog.
Walking: Consistently shady and calm. Nice for families or solo walks.
Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir
Jogging: Full loop is about 4.5 km on a paved road. No shade, so only run early or late. Entry fee required.
Walking: Scenic, especially near the lakefront. Great for post-walk meals in the bamboo huts.
Bonus (walkers only): Huay Kaew Arboretum
Too small for running but ideal for a midday stroll. Always shady and close to the city—perfect when it’s too hot elsewhere.
Which Chiang Mai park is best for yoga?
Nong Buak Haad Public Park is particularly popular for morning yoga sessions, with many locals and expats gathering on the grassy areas for group classes or individual practice. The park’s central location and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for outdoor yoga, especially during the cooler early morning hours before the city fully awakens.
Which parks offer food or dining on-site?
If you want to combine fresh air with a good meal, several Chiang Mai parks deliver satisfying eats too:
Ang Kaew Reservoir
Located on the CMU campus, Ang Kaew is just across the road from Living a Dream, a well-loved cafe offering excellent coffee, breakfast, and brunch plates. On weekends, the reservoir also attracts food stalls and drink vendors, especially near the main entrance. You’ll also find plenty of small eateries and smoothie stands scattered around CMU’s perimeter roads, making this a relaxed and social park to grab a bite post-walk.
Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir
Famous for its row of bamboo dining huts built directly over the lake, Huay Tueng Thao offers one of the most atmospheric food experiences in Chiang Mai. Dozens of local restaurants serve grilled tilapia, som tam (papaya salad), larb, sticky rice, beers, and soft drinks—brought directly to your hut. It’s a quintessential Thai lakeside lunch spot, especially popular with local families on weekends.
Royal Park Rajapruek
Spread across the park are multiple cafés and snack kiosks, ranging from local-style coffee and juice stands to small air-conditioned cafés with Thai meals, drinks, and sweets. While none are gourmet destinations, the food is reliable and convenient for long visits, and picnic areas abound if you’d rather bring your own.
Tweechol Botanical Garden
Tweechol includes several on-site restaurants and cafés, from Thai buffet options to à la carte dining. Their resort-style layout offers ample indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for family lunches or refueling after cycling or playground time. You can easily make a half-day trip here without needing to leave for food.
Changthong Heritage Park
The attached Spiral Coco café serves light Thai fusion fare, smoothies, coffee, and desserts in a peaceful garden setting. It’s a great place to linger post-stroll or meet friends for a quiet meal with a view of the moss garden. Though the menu is compact, the atmosphere is elevated and serene.
Additional note
Parks like Chiang Mai 700 Years Park, PAO Park, and Buak Haad often have roaming snack vendors, iced drink carts, and food stalls near their entrances—especially on weekends. These aren’t sit-down cafés, but they’re perfect for a cold coconut, grilled sausage, or cup of Thai iced tea after a long walk or scooter ride.
Which parks are good for picnics?
Chiang Mai Chaloem Phrakiat Park (PAO Park) and Chiang Mai 700 Years Park both offer expansive, wide grassy areas that are perfect for setting up a family picnic. Royal Park Rajapruek, with its beautifully landscaped areas and serene ambiance, also provides wonderful spots for a more formal picnic experience. Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir uniquely combines excellent picnic spots with the added benefit of lakeside dining options in bamboo huts, offering a different kind of outdoor meal. Tweechol Botanical Garden also has vast grounds suitable for picnics.
Which parks are best for Instagram photos?
Whether you’re capturing flowers, landscapes, or quirky details, these parks offer some of Chiang Mai’s most photogenic settings:
Ang Kaew Reservoir
A classic spot for graduation and wedding shoots, especially favored by university students. Best visited in the early morning for soft light and misty mountain reflections, or at sunset for dramatic color over the water.
Changthong Heritage Park
Quiet, design-rich grounds focused on rare trees and moss gardens, perfect for close-ups and contemplative nature shots.
Royal Park Rajapruek
Exquisitely landscaped gardens, diverse floral displays, and the iconic Royal Pavilion make this park a top spot for stunning photos year-round.
Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir
Best known for its giant King Kong sculptures, charming bamboo huts on the lake, and rustic lakeside views — quirky and beloved by locals.
Chiang Mai PAO Park (Chaloem Phrakiat Park)
Elegant layout with mountain backdrops and wide open skies. Offers some of the best sunset views in the city.
Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden
Lush mountain setting with a striking canopy walkway that offers elevated perspectives above the treetops — ideal for nature shots.
Tweechol Botanical Garden
Vast private gardens with manicured themes, a lake, flower beds, and play zones — great for both posed and candid family photos.
Which Chiang Mai parks are dog friendly?
Policies regarding dogs in Chiang Mai parks vary. Some parks are generally considered dog-friendly, such as Angkaew Reservoir (where many locals walk dogs at sunset). Tweechol Botanical Garden also allows leashed dogs. However, other locations, like Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir, are noted for having territorial stray dogs, making them less recommended for bringing pets. Chiang Mai 700 Years Park and Chiang Mai Chaloem Phrakiat Park often allow leashed dogs in designated areas. It’s always best to confirm local rules upon arrival, keep your dog on a leash, and diligently clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Are there any parks with swimming?
Among the parks listed, Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir is the primary location where swimming is allowed, and it also offers paddleboat rentals for water activities. Most other parks feature decorative water bodies, ponds, or streams that are not intended for swimming.
Chiang Mai’s green spaces are as varied as the city itself — some tucked away in sleepy neighborhoods, others expansive and full of life. Whether you’re chasing shade for a stroller walk, tracking steps on a morning jog, or planning a weekend picnic, there’s likely a park near you that fits the rhythm of your day.
This guide is meant to help you navigate that variety — to find places that feel close to home, match your lifestyle, or offer something new to explore.