Often referred to as the ‘Rose of the North’, Chiang Mai is the economic and cultural centre of Northern Thailand and the focus of tourism within the region. Located about 700 kilometres from Bangkok, it is one of Thailand’s better known and most visited provinces. Originally the capital of the Lanna Thai kingdom created by King Mengrai in 1296, the province has a played a major part in the development of the country.
Situated on the Mae Ping River and around 310 metres above sea level, Chiang Mai is one of the kingdom’s most beautiful provinces, featuring mountain ranges and hills amidst lush greenery and jungle. Climate conditions in the area can create swirls of mist and fog in winter – an unusual sight in a tropical country. The province’s numerous national parks are extremely fertile, have an abundance of flowers, and support a broad range of wildlife (the area is particularly associated with elephants). The province is also famed as being a home to numerous tribal peoples and visits to tribal villages are a key component of the area’s tourism. Some of the main attractions in the area include Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Doi Intanon – Thailand’s biggest mountain.
5 Top Tourist Attractions in Chiang Mai
1. Phra That Doi Suthep Temple
What makes Phra That Doi Suthep Temple such an impressive temple, and one that should definitely be visited, is its location. The temple is found on a mountain overlooking the city of Chiang Mai, which means it has the best vantage point in the entire region. Of course, location isn’t the only reason to visit. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is highly recognizable thanks to its gold-plated chedi, or stupa, which is sometimes visible from the city below on clear days. In order to reach the temple, visitors will have to climb over 300 stairs at high altitude or opt for the cable car.
2. Doi Inthanon National Park
Thailand’s tallest mountain peak, Doi Inthanon, towers more than 2,500m above its namesake national park in the rural northern district of Chom Thong. With cascading waterfalls, sub Alpine climate, and lush highland forest or jungle; it’s a highly recommended daytrip from Chiang Mai.
3. Chedi Luang Temple
This is perhaps Chiang Mai’s most striking relic and was once the most important in the Lanna capital. Dating from 1441, the 91-metre high pagoda was felled to half that height in an earthquake in the late 16th century. To this day the partially renovated chedi remains the tallest structure in the old city and the main attraction. There are several Viharn or Ubosots in the compound as well. The much revered Emerald Buddha, found in the Grand Palace in Bangkok, briefly lived here during its remarkable travels.
Address: 103 Phra Pok Klao Road, Phra Singh.
Open: 06:00-17:00. Entry: free.
4. Chiang Mai Walking Street
Chiang Mai Walking Street is a Sunday evening walking street at the Three Kings Monument Courtyard. This thriving Sunday evening market covers nearly the whole of Rachadamnoen road (the main road of the old city), many of its side streets and the square in front of Tha Phae Gate. It is famed for the locally made handicrafts that are made from a wide variety of materials such as silk, fabric, ceramic, metal, glass, wood and etc. In addition, Chiang Mai also organizes a Saturday Evening Walking Street on Wua Lai road which runs from Chiang Mai gate, on the south side of the old city, towards the airport. Both Thai and foreign tourists are enjoy walking and shopping here.
5. Maesa Elephant camp
Attraction offering elephant shows, elephant painting & experiences such as bathing & riding. If you have children or just have a love for elephants then why not visit Mae Sa Elephant Camp and enjoy the elephants show off their many skills with work demonstrations, playing football and even painting! Get the chance to really get close to these wonderful creatures and also enjoy the baby elephants play in the nursery and the elephants take a pre-show bath in the river. Elephant riding is also an option here! A visit to a local orchid and butterfly farm is also included on this Chiang Mai tour.
Information by Dentist Chiang Mai
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