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Northern Thailand has a uniquely different flavour reflected
in its history, culture, language and people. Its previous
isolation is best reflected in the fact that until the railway
line was completed in the late 1920's, the city of Chiang
Mai was only accessible by a combination of river transport
and elephant, a journey taking several weeks. (It now takes
55 minutes by plane).
United as a separate kingdom called Lanna by King Mengrai,
its original capital was at Chiang Rai, which moved to Chiang
Mai in 1296, Lanna lost its independence to Ayutthaya, and
later to Burma. It did not become a part of Thailand until
1774.
NORTHERN
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Over the past decade, this 700-year old city has experienced
much develobment. During the economic boom, it spawned a frenzy
of road construction in order to cope with the traffic. The
city also makes an excellent base for shopping and exploring
the rest of the province, with its wide range of historical
sites, national parks, arts, crafts, and fascinating hill
tribes.
Sightseeing in Chiang Mai City
Chiang Mai is filled with dozens of stunningly beautiful
temples, some imposingly large, others tucked into hidden
corners of the city, appearing like magic as you turn a corner
in some small lane. Amongst the most important are:
Wat Phra Sing
One of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai, first started in
1345, and a fine example of Lanna architecture. The main chapel
houses the much-revered Phra Buddha Sihing, an image with
a particularly beautiful facial expression.
Wat Chedi Luang
Started in 1411, this huge pagoda rose to over 170 metres,
before being toppled by an earthquake in 1545. It was a beautifully
impressive ruin before being renovated in the early 1990's,
an action which some consider detracts from its former appeal.
Wat Chiang Man
The city's oldest temple dating back to 1296, built by King
Mengrai who apparently stayed there during the construction
of the city itself.
It houses two sacred images, one is the small Crystal Buddha
which is ceremoniously paraded through the city on April 1st
each year. The second is a bas-relief stone Buddha thought
to have come from India in the 8th century. Both images can
be viewed on Sundays, or by special request.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Overlooking the city from an altitude of 1,080 metres, and
some 16 km. from the centre, this revered mountaintop temple
dates back to 1383.
The present 16th century buildings were considerably expanded
and restored by subsequent Chiang Mai rulers.
The impressive gold covered chedi enshrines sacred Buddhist
relics. Access is up a long serpant-bordered stairway of 290
steps, or a small cable car.
On clear days the view is superb, and this temple can easily
occupy a half day's sightseeing.
Chiang Mai Zoo
On the left side as the road begins its climb to Doi Suthep,
this was originally a private collection of animals, which
was later donated to the city. Many local and regional species
are on view, and a pleasant local atmosphere is generated
during weekends and holidays, when families converge here
in large numbers.
Excursions from Chiang Mai
Elephant Camp and Orchid Farm
An enjoyable combination of watching elephants at work in
the forest, with an opportunity to ride them; then viewing
some of the world's finest blooms at an orchid farm nearby.
Handicraft Villages
Although over-commercialised in recent years, this is still
a favorite. The "umbrella village" of Bo Sang provides
a fascinating hour of watching skilled fingers craft delightful
and remarkably durable umbrellas from bamboo and "Sa"
paper. Painted in dozens of colours, and available in every
size imaginable, they will happily ship garden sized parasols
to your home address. Further on, San Kamphaeng is a major
centre for silk where you can observe every stage of the weaving
process.
Chiang Rai & The golden Triangle
Can be done in a long day trip from Chiang Mai, but best
to spend one or two nights in this lovely corner of Thailand.
Chiang Rai is a pleasant town with some interesting temples.
The highlight for most visitors is the superb panorama created
at the Golden Triangle where the borders of Myanmar, Laos
and Thailand meet at the Mekong River. Driving east along
the river brings you to the historic little village of Chiang
Saen, with its small museum, ramparts, and ancient temples.
Mae Hong Son
A 35 minute flight from Chiang Mai brings you to this charming
little town with its tranquil central lake, and interesting
Burmese-style temples. It is small enough to walk around,
and makes a pleasant day trip, or if time permits, one or
two nights to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Hilltribes
There are numerous tribes around Chiang Rai, and along Mae
Kok River such as the Yao, the Akha, the Blue and White Meo,
Lisu, Lahu, Lahu Shi and Skaw and Karen. Each main group speaks
its own language, and some still follow animist beliefs.
Rafting
The Mae Kok River, flowing through the picturesque heart
of the province, offers several rafting opportunities, which
are organized by local operators the most popular being the
trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, or vice versa.
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