Chiang Mai Thailand

The second largest city after Bangkok, Chiang Mai is in true sense a gateway to Northern Thailand. Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai, the city is located 700 kilometers north of Bangkok. One can commute throughout the city by tuk-tuk or samlor, taxi, bus, motorcycle or a songthaew.

Places to Visit in Chiang Mai:

- Buddhist Temples (is the mixture of varied architectural styles and has intricate wooden carvings and Naga serpent staircases)
- Wat Chiang Mun (oldest temple in the city.)
- Wat Phra Jao Mengrai (a secluded wooden temple)
- Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center
- Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep (this temple is known for its Golden plated Chedi)
- Wat Oo-Mong (an ancient temple outside Chiang Mai)
- Wat Chedi Luang (ruins of an ancient Pagoda in the canter of Chiang Mai)
- Hilltribe Research Institute Museum
- Wat Phra Singh (this famous temple holds Phra Singh image.)

You can also participate and enjoy some of the traditional festivals, in to complete the Chiang Mai experience. Some of them are as follows:
Chiang Mai Flower Festival, Loi Krathong Festival, Bo Sang Umbrella & Sankampang Handicrafts Festival, Orchid Fair.

Things to do in Chiang Mai:

- You can either enjoy Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) tournaments at the Kawila Boxing Stadium or learn Thai Boxing at Lanna Muay Thai.
- You can trek around Chiang Mai's hilly terrain, go rafting on the Maetang River or simply explore Chiang Mai through motorcycle touring.
- Relax with various massage treatments or learn to cook Thai delicacies.
- Indulge in any sport you like- golf, horse riding, adventure sports, ballooning or tennis
- Elephant riding cannot be left behind.

Besides the two large shopping malls: Airport Plaza and Central Kad Suan Keaw, Chiang Mai has famous Night Bazar, Sunday Market, Saturday Market and Warorot Market.

There are a string of night clubs, live music joints, bars, pubs and lovely restaurants, throughout Chiang Mai. A few are listed for your convenience:
- Number One
- Galae Garden Restaurant
- Le Grand Lanna Garden Restaurant,
- The Meeting Restaurant & Café,
- O'Malley's Irish Restaurant

Chiang has many accommodation facilities for various budgets. They can range from cheap guesthouses to high rise hotels. Some of them are as follows:
Backpacker House, Green Tulip Guest House, Eagle House, Golden Fern Guest House etc.

Accommodation in Thailand
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