Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a land of misty mountains and colorful hill tribes, a playground for seasoned travelers, a paradise for shoppers, and a delight for adventurers. On a trip to Chiang Mai, the curious traveler can expand their horizons with Thai massage and cooking courses. Others will be bowled over by the variety of handicrafts and antiques. The wild child will find plenty of lively nightlife, and the epicure can indulge in wonderful cuisine. Despite its relatively small size, Chiang Mai truly has it all.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Chiang Mai
1. Chiang Mai Old City:
Chiang Mai is the second biggest city in Thailand. Chiang Mai means ‘new city’ and it was named after its discovery. The city was found in an older city of Wiang Nopburi. Chiang Mai is a perfect gateway to relax and escape from the hassle and bustle of Bangkok and big cities. It was used to be the center of the Lanna Kingdom in past. Nowadays, it is a popular city for backpackers and travelers.
2. Night Bazaar:
The main venue for shopping in Chiang Mai, indeed all of Thailand, the night bazaar is a can’t-miss part of the Chiang Mai experience. Ground zero of this nightly commerce bomb is located at the intersection of Chang Khlan Road and Loi Khro Road but the whole thing spreads out for two blocks in either direction. Set up time is around sunset (usually about 18:00) and shopping goes on unabated until about 22:30 with a few vendors remaining open even later.
3. Wiang Kum Kam:
Located in attractive countryside about five kilometers south of Chiang Mai along the Ping River, Wiang Kum Kam is an ancient city dating back to the eighth-century Haripunchai Kingdom. Later on, it served as the capital of the then Lanna Kingdom for a short while until Chiang Mai was chosen to replace it in 1296.Expect to see many interesting items and structures such as stone tablets with Mon inscriptions, Buddhist sculptures, and architecture, earthenware, and pottery. Taking a horse-drawn carriage is a popular way to enjoy the ruins although some visitors prefer to take their time to appreciate this large site on foot or by rented bicycle.
4. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep:
Overlooking the city from its mountain throne, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of northern Thailand’s most sacred temples, and its founding legend is learned by every schoolkid in Chiang Mai. The wát is a beautiful example of northern Thai architecture, reached via a 306-step staircase flanked by naga (mythical sea serpents). The climb is intended to help devotees accrue Buddhist merit.
5. Tha Pae Gate:
The Pae Gate is one of the most famous landmarks in Chiang Mai and is part of the crumbling city wall which once acted as a fortress for the ‘Old City (and still today acts as a geographical boundary). The gate area is an epicenter for tourism in Chiang Mai, boasting more hotels, bars, restaurants, cafes, massage parlors, and shops than anywhere else in the city.
6. Nimmanhaemin:
Nimman Road and the surrounding side streets are at the heart of the trendiest part of Chiang Mai. Occasionally known by its full name of Nimmanhaemin Road, the place is alive with fashionable restaurants, cafés, bars, shops, and boutique hotels. It definitely gives Chiang Mai a new angle, far removed from the traditional Thai sensibilities found in other areas of Thailand’s so-called ‘Rose of the North.
7. Wat Chedi Luang:
One of Chiang Mai’s most important temples is the Wat Chedi Luang located in the ancient walled part of the city.The Wat Chedi Luang, also known as the Jedi Luang and “The temple of the Great Stupa” initially consisted of two more temples named Wat Ho Tham and Wat Sukmin, which were all merged into one.Its most prominent feature is the massive and very impressive chedi (pagoda) dominating the area. The chedi was ordered by King Saen Muang Ma to enshrine the ashes of his father.
8. Doi Inthanon National Park:
The highest peak in Thailand, Doi Inthanon rises to a height of 2565 meters (8, 415 feet) above sea level. This altitude means that temperatures on Doi Inthanon are refreshingly brisk year-round and regularly dip below freezing during the cool season (October to February). The national park which contains Doi Inthanon and bears its name covers 482 square km (186 square miles) and contains Sanpatong District, Chomthong District, Mae Chaem District, Mae Wang District, and the Toi Lor Sub-district of Chiang Mai Province.
9. Chiang Mai Night Safari:
Chiang Mai Night Safari park was modeled after the Singapore Night Safari. The concept of the park is to provide visitors with a thrilling experience similar to being out in the wilderness at night.Apart from touring the three animal zones – Savanna Safari, Predator Prowl, Jaguar Trail – via an open-sided tram or on foot, enjoy a range of activities designed to keep you entertained throughout your visit, from hand-feeding wild animals and petting tiger cubs to a laser light show and ‘dancing’ fountain.
10. The Tiger Kingdom:
Tiger Kingdom Phuket is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you can meet, play, and have your photo taken with tigers! Watch the tigers as you kick back with some food and drink from our top-quality restaurant. You are sure to have a very memorable experience! Open daily including public holidays from 9 am to 5 pm.
