Wat Pa Dara Phirom Phra Aram Luang

Most people pass this one on the road north to Mae Rim's elephant sanctuaries, which is exactly why I'd stop. It's a working temple honouring both the Buddha and Princess Dara Rasmi, royal consort to King Rama V, so there's history layered under the religion here. The draw is the sacred Buddha tooth relic in the upper hall. You climb a flight of stairs to reach it, and the chamber at the top is ornate enough that reviewers keep describing it as a mini-museum, with old artefacts and wall murals in full Lanna style.

The grounds are small, well kept and genuinely quiet, which sets them apart from the temple circuit in central Chiang Mai. Signage is detailed, so you can wander at your own pace and actually understand what you're looking at. Some of the monks speak English and are happy to talk, answer questions or give a blessing. Give it an hour. Parking is easy and there's food and drink nearby.