Thailand’s ‘Rose of the North’ is the Ancient city of Chiang Mai, which today thrives on tourism with its rewarding blend of historical culture, natural beauty, excellent hospitality and great value shopping. It’s also a laid back and charming destination which serves as an excellent base for exploring the mountainous Northern region and its unique attractions.Founded auspiciously on April 12th 1296 by King Mengrai as the new capital of his thriving Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai is located besides the Ping river, in a broad and fertile valley. The original city was marked out over roughly a square mile and guarded by a moat, which remains today as one of the city’s most unique characteristics. It is set about with grassy banks and pretty flamboyant trees, along with fountains, ancient corner bastions and restored gates to add a lovely and historical atmosphere to the city.
Although Chiang Mai is now very much a tourist town, much of its traditional character has been retained and visitors are often delighted with exploring the backlanes to chance upon one of the hundreds of beautiful temples, or bustling markets and old teak houses. Some of the temples date back to the 14th and 15th century and chedi ruins can be found randomly dotted all over the city, adding to its appeal. Chiang Mai boasts all sorts of attractions and activities to keep its visitors busy. The most popular is perhaps the looming mountain to the west of the city, Doi Suithep, a lovely national park with a fairy-tale like temple perched on the peak. It’s one of the country’s most visited. There are waterfalls and nature trails, along with a whole recreation area out at the Mae Sa valley that offers elephant rides, bungee jumping, a variety of fun animal shows, as well as a botanical garden and fantastic multi-tiered waterfall. If all this leaves you exhausted you might want to spend a day pampering your body in one of the many excellent spas in the city. Shoppers find Chiang Mai particularly good value and it’s perhaps the best place in Thailand to find souvenirs and the many wonderful Thai handicrafts – many of which are produced here. Baan Tawai is the main artisans village south of the city where a wide selection of hand made, wood carved and furniture or décor products can be found at unbeatable prices. But far more convenient is the famed Night Market that holds centre stage on Chan Klan road by night and is a must-see for all.
This laid-back Northern capital also has a relaxing atmosphere and likes to entertain. There are literally hundreds of bars and restaurants all over the city, including a wide range of international cuisine to supplement the famous Thai food which adds such an memorable experience to your visit. They all very affordable and many include live entertainment or a lovely al fresco setting. It also has a excellent selection of hotels and guest houses to accommodate everyone at reasonable prices. From unbelievable themed five-star hotels to humble guesthouses in the old town, there is something for everyone.
Several museums and courses in massage, cooking or Thai language add a fun cultural learning experience to Chiang Mai. The hill tribes that occupy the highlands of this region are particularly fascinating with their subsistence lives and colourful dress and customs. Many tours of the region include these ethnic minorities in their itinerary.
This laid-back Northern capital also has a relaxing atmosphere and likes to entertain. There are literally hundreds of bars and restaurants all over the city, including a wide range of international cuisine to supplement the famous Thai food which adds such an memorable experience to your visit. They all very affordable and many include live entertainment or a lovely al fresco setting. It also has a excellent selection of hotels and guest houses to accommodate everyone at reasonable prices. From unbelievable themed five-star hotels to humble guesthouses in the old town, there is something for everyone.
Several museums and courses in massage, cooking or Thai language add a fun cultural learning experience to Chiang Mai. The hill tribes that occupy the highlands of this region are particularly fascinating with their subsistence lives and colourful dress and customs. Many tours of the region include these ethnic minorities in their itinerary.
Chiang Mai is also a good base for exploring the region. You can choose from day trips to Doi Inthanon national park (including Thailand’s highest peak), disappear into the jungle on a multi-day trekking expedition, or hire a car and find your way up to the famed Golden Triangle or bohemian hideaway of Pai. Numerous operators in town offer tours, which include all sorts of fun activities such as whitewater rafting, mountain biking, day treks and cultural experiences. There is a distinctly modern side to Chiang Mai too, and it offers its residents a wide range of facilities such as large malls, computer plazas, the trendy Nimminhemin street, several universities (and the whole student atmosphere), international schools, sports bars and clubs and societies. For this reason it has become one of Thailand’s most attractive cities for ex-pats retiring or planning to live in Thailand.
With its down-to-earth charm, cheaper prices and friendly locals, Chiang Mai has a special place in the tourism brochures of Thailand and few people leave without good memories of their trip north.
With its down-to-earth charm, cheaper prices and friendly locals, Chiang Mai has a special place in the tourism brochures of Thailand and few people leave without good memories of their trip north.
Credit article : http://www.compasscm.com/
