Best known for its cave complex, Chiang Dao is also a good base to explore the trekking and bird-watching opportunities of Doi Chiang Dao. The area surrounding Chiang Dao town is scenic and largely unspoiled. From the summit of Doi Chiang Dao (also called Doi Luang; 2195m), allegedly Thailand’s highest limestone mountain, there are spectacular views.
There is a market every day at the northern end on the main street through Chiang Dao. It is worth coming into town to see the colourful Tuesday morning market (7am-12am), when hill tribes come to sell their wares. Most accommodation is in the vicinity of Tham Chiang Dao, 5km west of town.