Thailand
Located in the heart of Chiang Mai, the namesake zoo is Thailand's largest of its kind. The key points.
The Rose of the North isn't just a hub of Buddhist temples and pagodas. It boasts a dozen amusement parks that have delighted families for generations. Established in 1957, the Chiang Mai Zoo is a popular tourist site in Thailand. The park is home to nearly 400 animal species. While the pair of giant pandas from China are the main attraction, you'll also be delighted to see elephants, long-necked giraffes, and baby hippos. But that's not all. Exploring the aquarium introduces you to marine life. This two-in-one attraction justifies a visit, especially since it's centrally located in Chiang Mai. Whether you seek outdoor activities, an intimate encounter with wildlife, or family-friendly fun combining relaxation and education, Chiang Mai Zoo is the place to be.
History
When American evangelist Harold Mason Young was sent to Thailand, he never imagined a zoo project. While training officers near the border, he began caring for sick animals out of pure humanitarianism. To support his efforts, local authorities in Chiang Mai donated 8 hectares of land at the foot of Doi Suthep mountain. Thus, Chiang Mai Zoo was born, initially conceived as a rehabilitation center for wild animals. Mason managed it from 1957 until his death in 1974. Today, the park, under the administration of Chiang Mai province, covers 80 hectares.
Two giant pandas—Chuang Chuang and Lin Hui—were introduced to the park on October 19, 2003, as a gift from China to Thailand. After six years together, the pair produced Lin Bing, a female panda who was returned to China in 2011.
Today
Since opening to the public in June 1977, Chiang Mai Zoo has been a popular destination. Visitors include families on vacation, students, and research biologists. Aside from the aquarium, the zoo alone houses nearly 400 different species, totaling 2,000 animals. Amidst animal exhibits, there are beautiful landscaped gardens, rivers, rocky cliffs, and even waterfalls. The wildlife experience at Chiang Mai Zoo captivates visitors of all ages. Following a well-planned layout, each exhibit provides the climate and ecosystem necessary for the animals to thrive outside their natural habitats.
Meet the zoo's star attractions
The giant Panda couple
Arrive early to catch Chuang Chuang and Lin Hui at their most energetic in the morning. Watching them play, lounge together in the bushes, or munch on tender bamboo is a pure joy. These two bears symbolize the friendship between Thailand and China.
For an unforgettable experience with the zoo's star pandas, visitors must pay an additional fee of 100 baht (half price for youths). Don't hesitate to pay; this experience is priceless.
Iconic animals from five continents
While adorable pandas from China steal the spotlight, they're not the only attraction. Throughout the walk, other astounding species await: Bornean orangutans, giant catfish from the Mekong River, Humboldt penguins, critically endangered Indochinese tigers, Indian and Nepalese one-horned rhinoceroses, marsh hippos, and Asian elephants—the continent's largest land mammals. You'll also see a colony of flamingos wading through mud and silt. The park houses nearly 800 birds, sure to captivate children.
The snow dome
Adjacent to the Panda House is the Snow Dome, a mountain covered in glistening snow. While less appealing to Westerners, it delights Thai tourists unaccustomed to the cold Alpine climate. Igloos, snowmen, and ice fields—all are convincingly crafted. Functioning as a winter resort, the Snow Dome offers sledding, sleigh rides, and ice skating.
The futuristic aquarium
If you're fascinated by marine science, visit the zoo's aquarium. With exhibition tanks spanning over 40,468 square meters, it's Thailand's and Asia's largest aquatic park. The aquarium features two tunnels: one showcasing marine life from warm seas, including jellyfish, squid, and sharks, and another housing various species of freshwater fish. Discover nearly 20,000 fish and 2,000 aquatic species, unraveling the fabulous world of lakes and oceans.
Practical information
Prices and opening hours
The zoo is open 7 days a week, except on public holidays, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entrance fees vary based on nationality and age group.
Thai nationals: 50 baht per adult, 30 baht per child
Non-Thai nationals: 100 baht per adult, 50 baht per child
The zoo is accessible to elderly and disabled individuals.
The best time to visit
Chiang Mai has a tropical climate, with intense heat for much of the year and heavy rains from June to October. The best time to visit the zoo is between November and March.
Getting to the Zoo
Located at the base of Doi Suthep Mountain, follow Huai Kaew Road past Chiang Mai University to reach the zoo. If you don't have a private vehicle, you can take a cycle rickshaw or a blue songthaew (a kind of pickup truck with a rear bench) to get there.
Nearby attractions
Have you enjoyed your visit to Chiang Mai Zoo? Nearby attractions like Huai Kaew Waterfall or Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the city's most iconic temples, will also capture your interest.
