Chiang Mai Tourism in a nutshell

James BaileyPlaces to visit, So you're in Thailand

Chiang MaiIs it worth it? HELL YES! Personally if I have the opportunity to live somewhere in Thailand other than where I am currently, Chiang Mai would have to top the list.

Chiang Mai is a city in mountainous north of Thailand, in an area that dates back to the 1200s. It’s Old City area still retains vestiges of walls and moats from it’s history as a cultural and religious center.

It is also home to an incredible amount of elaborate temples, including 14th-century Wat Phra Singh and 15th-century Wat Chedi Luang, adorned with carved serpents lining the long staircase to the top.

Wat Phra That Doi SuthepChiang Mai offers so many cultural opportunities that are not seen in other areas of Thailand.

If your travelling in November  the Loy Krathong, Yee Peng, Festival of Lights is well worth taking in.

Although like everywhere in Thailand, tourism is paramount, finding authentic experiences are not very hard to do.

 

Top 6 sightseeing tips for Chiang Mai

  • Long Neck Karen Tribe in Chiang Mai. Although this can be an ethical issue as a tourist point if you read my story on the history of this tribe, and where they currently reside.
  • The Phu – Ping Winter Palace of His Majesty The King Of Thailand. Tickets to enter the grounds are cheap, but ensure you are correctly dressed for this spot as it is the Kings Winter residence and respect must be shown.
  • Eco Elephant Tours are everywhere in Chiang Mai, but ensure you go with a reputable company that is in the business of rescuing elephants from mistreatment but companies that exploit this gentle giants.
  • Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The temple is often referred to as “Doi Suthep” although this is actually the name of the mountain where it’s located. It is a sacred site to many Thai people. The temple is 15 km(9.3 mi) from the Chiang Mai city centre.
  • Tiger Kingdom center where visitors can interact with young & adult cats in trainer-supervised enclosures.
  • Sunday Markets Walking Street, is one of the largest markets in Thailand. Located right in the center of the old walled city area of Chiang Mai. Starting at the Tha Phae Gate at one end the Sunday Market extends for approximately 1km down the full length of Ratchadamnoen Road. You can go to the Market every Sunday from 4pm till midnight.

Chiang Mai night lifeNightlife in Chiang Mai can be whatever you want to make it. From the kitsch bars and restaurants, to the live music and riverside drinking.

The Nimmanheimin Road area has emerged in recent times as a popular haunt with the city’s backpacker and younger Thai nationals.

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