Chiang Mai is the largest and most culturally significant city in Northern Thailand. Located about 700km away from Bangkok, with the highest mountains in the country in its backdrop, and the serene Mae Ping river at it’s doorstep; this was once the capital of the great Lanna Kingdom.

Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai, Chiang Mai succeeded Chiang Rai as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Known as the chao, the city was defended by a moat a defensive wall, parts of which still remain today. The Old Chiang Mai is located within this city wall and you will find an increasing number of boutique hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, cafes and numerous temples.

Wat Phra Singh is one of those temples located within the city walls and dates back to 1345, offering an example of classic northern Thai style architecture. It houses the Phra Singh Buddha, a highly venerated figure brought here many years ago from Chiang Rai.

Getting There: It is about 10 minutes walk from any of the old city’s gates, or you can take a tuk tuk (40-60 Baht) or Song Thaew ride (20 Baht) if you are staying outside the old city.

 

Wat Suan Dok is just beyond the western walls of the old city.  Dating back to the 14th century, Wat Suan Dok was built by the King of Lanna on the grounds of his pleasure garden. This temple was originally intended to serve as a retreat for a revered monk from Sukothai and is a  wonderful place for photography with spectacular vistas of Doi Suthep at sunset.

 

 

Getting There: Located at Suthep road just at the western gate of the old city, it is a walkable distance if you reside within the Old City. Alternatively, you can take a tuk tuk (40-60 Baht) or Song Thaew ride (20 Baht) if you are staying outside the old city.

 

Doi Ithanon National Park is home to Chiang Mai’s highest mountain (Doi Ithanon). This park covers an area of about 48,000 ha and the temperature has been known to drop below -8 degrees Celsius. It is also home to several impressive waterfalls (especially during the winter season from October – January) such as the Wachirathan and Mae Ya Waterfalls. Also try the Gew Mae Pan Trail, one of the most beautiful and rewarding walks in the National Park (about 2 hours). A short distance away from the summit is the Napamaytanidol Chedi, a pair of King and Queen Pagodas built in honour of the Current Thai King Bhumipol and his wife. It is well worth a visit for its panoramic vistas and beautiful garden landscapes.

 

 

 

 

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a daily affair that occurs just outside the Le Meridian Hotel and Dwantuang Hotel. This night market starts around 6.00pm and ends around 11.00pm. Here is the best place to shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs, T-shirts, foodstuffs and other memorabilia. Expect to bargain down your prices by at least 30%.

 

 

Getting There: Walk down Loi Kroh or Thapae Road in the direction of the Mae Ping river (about 20 minutes) and you will reach the heart of the Night Market. A Song Thaew (20 baht) or Tuk Tuk (40 Baht) will also get you there in no time.

 

Doi Suthep is a constant part of life in Chiang Mai. A Thai saying goes, “If you haven’t seen Khao Soi or seen the view from Doi Suthep, you haven’t been to Chiang Mai”. This regal mountain overlooks the city from the northwest and houses one of the most holy Buddhist sites in Thailand, the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. This awe-inspiring temple is crowned by an elaborate Chedi monument, 24m tall and gold plated from top to bottom. Also visit the Huay Kaew Waterfalls (near the entrance of the park) which flows down 9 tiers and is a popular picnic spot.

Getting There: Private transportation is the best way to get around Doi Suthep. Alternatively, if you are short of time, take one of the day tours available at your local tourist desk (about 400 – 700 Baht). However, the itinerary is a little rushed and does not allow much time to fully appreciate what Doi Suthep has to offer.