Chiang Mai

Hotels In:

• Khon Kaen
• Ayuthaya
• Bangkok
• Chiang Mai
• Chiang Rai
• Hua Hin
• Ko Pha Ngan
• Ko Samui
• Krabi
• Lampang
• Loei
• Pattaya
• Phuket
• Sukhothai
• Surin

The capital of the Ancient Lanna Kingdom was founded in 1296 by King Mengrai as the first independent Thai state. Lanna Thai became the cultural and religious epicenter of the northern Thai people, and is presently known for its relaxed lifestyle and friendly people. The heart of Chiang Mai is the ancient city, surrounded by a mote on all sides and protected by a wall that long ago used to serve as a look out, and provided protection against Burmese invasion. The ancient city is made up of narrow streets which wind around ruins, shops, businesses, and houses. The main "gate" through which to enter the city is called, "Thaphae Gate," and is also the main area of the tourist side of Chiang Mai. The Sunday Market starts here, and continues almost entirely across the city. This is probably the best market in Northern Thailand to try the local Northern Thai food, and see all of the local artifacts which are brought every week for sale.

Today, Chaing Mai is a town of 200,000 people in a province of almost 1.8 million. The town has a local charm in its mix of modern shopping centers and restaurants, but maintains a strong presence of deep history at its root. In the last ten years, Chiang Mai has seen an influx of Thai people from Bangkok, who move there for the cooler temperatures and relaxed environment, and has also developed a notable foreigner community. The lay of the land is pretty simple to get used to. To the west you have the mountain, and on clear days you can see Wat Doi Suthep, a temple built on the mountain side up a long and curvy street. The trip to the top of the mountain is an adventure all in itself, with waterfalls and stunning views along the way, and a destination with a stunning example of Buddhist decor in a palace-like environment. The outlying areas of Chiang Mai and Norther Thailand are also home to the majority of the countries half a million ethnic hill tribes, consisting of the Karen, Akha, Lahu, Lisu, Hmong and Mien. Each of these tribes are linked through history, language, lineage, dress, social organization, and religion. With close cultural and ethnic ties to the surrounding cultures of Lao, Chinese, Tibetan, and Burmese ancestors, each tribe to present day retains their traditional dress, religions, and daily practices.

Getting Around

It is best to see the city on a motorcycle, which you can rent at a number of shops around Thaphae Gate. Many of the streets are narrow, and from the recent increase in population, traffic normally moves pretty slow around town. Motorcycles are cheap to rent, and easy to deal with. Make sure that you wear a helmet as police often setup checkpoints looking to make a little extra pocket money if they see you without one. Many of the guest houses will also rent bicycles, which can also be a nice way to see the town at a slower pace.

Other means of getting around the city are via Songtao, which are red covered pickup trucks outfitted with benches in the back. The routes take a bit of exploration, but initially your best off just telling the driver (or handing him a destination written in Thai... *hint*) where you intend to go. If he is passing that location, he will drop you off, or let you know when to get off to catch the next songtao heading closer to where you want to go.

Tuk-tuk's also can be found almost anywhere that tourists are. These small, loud, three wheeled motorized carts can get through traffic, and will take you directly to your destination. Fares are always negotiable, so bring your bargaining skills.

  Favorite Nighlife in the Area

  Favorite Events in the Area

Thailand Travel Guide Thailand blends the exotic with modern convenience: Bangkok is a gleaming city with a robust traditional cuisine and a culture of devout Buddhism, while the ancient city of Chiang Mai is spa central. When you're done lapping all that up, move on to cloudy mountains or lounge around on the pearlescent sand of those famous beaches.