What to See First in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is set in the rolling foothills of the Himalayan Mountains about 750 kilometers north of Bangkok, it is the longest continuously inhabited settlement from the ancient days of Siam and many Thais think is the culturally richest city. Founded more than 700 years ago, the city was isolated from Bangkok and could only be reached by long and dangerous river journeys or by elephant back travel until the 1920's. The strong culture and isolation has kept the city's distinctive personality intact.

Most visitors begin sightseeing with the Buddhist temples (Wats.) Inside the old city moat and remaining city walls are more then 30 temples dating back to its founding as the capital of the Lanna kingdom. Close in to the old city, Doi Suthep temple is the symbol of the city as well as one of the most revered shrines in Thailand. It overlooks the urban area and farmlands from a 3500-foot mountain top, but is easily accessible from downtown. You will see temples that are a combination of Burmese, Sri Lankan, and Lanna Thai styles decorated with gold covered chedi and umbrellas, exotic wood carvings, and fierce Naga (water dragon) guardians.

Day trips for enjoying the mountain scenery and picturesque farms are a popular diversion and you can pick and choose from the many small museums and the monuments that the locals are happy to point out. A royal palace with grounds open to the public (when the the Thai royal family is not in residence) is a popular stopping place.

With shopping in traditional markets or the Night Bazaar, a variety of tourist attractions ranging from elephant camps to bungee jumping to the Royal Floral Exhibition grounds, there's enough variety to sustain interest for even the longest stays.

* Scenic Tours

* Markets and Shopping

* Historical Sites

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