Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, also spelled Chiengmai, is known as the gateway to Northern Thailand.

Chiang Mai is actually a province in Northern Thailand but its city, of the same name is the responsible for its popularity mostly due to the numerous temples and quiet atmosphere.

Chiang Mai is a very large city, actually the 2nd largest in Thailand, and is located on a high plain with beautiful mountains as a backdrop.

See also

• Chiang Mai Tourist Attractions
• Chiang Mai Tourist Activities
• Chiang Mai General Visitor Info

The city is steeped in culture and one only has to visit one of the numerous temples and museums dotting to the place to gain a better appreciation of Thailand’s very rich history. Some of the more popular museums include Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center, Hilltribe Research Institute Museum, Chiang Mai Numismatic Museum, Chiang Mai University Art Museum and the Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders. There are around 300 temples scattered all over Chiang Mai. Some of the more notable ones include Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chiang Mun and Wat Chedi Luang. If planning on visiting a temple keep in mind that these places are scared grounds a proper respect should be given by wearing appropriate attire.

Aside from the temples and museums one of the biggest draws in Chiang Mai are the elephants. There are two popular places where elephants can be spotted and even interacted with - the Elephant Nature Park and Maesa Elephant Camp.

Other popular tourist attractions include the Bhuping palace, natural caves, hot springs and waterfalls, orchid and butterfly farms, and the Kawila Boxing Stadium where Muay Thai fights are shown every Friday.

To make the most of sightseeing opportunities travelers often take bicycle and scooter tours.

Sightseeing is of course the favorite activity of tourists but those who want to engage in something less sedate will delight in more sporty activities such as karting, bungee jumping, rafting, game fishing, Muay Thai (Thai kickboxing), and golf.

May to September is the rainy season and will ensure a wet visit. Thailand is a tropical country so bring clothes appropriate for the weather. Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect your skin. Shorts are appropriate but when visiting temples wear long pants.

Accommodations are not a problem with plenty of places available for all budgets. Chiang Mai is a relatively safe place although tuktuk drivers are notorious for scamming their passengers by offering overpriced “sightseeing tours”.