Located in the picturesque northern region of Thailand, the countries second largest city, Chiang Mai, sits on the exotic Mae Ping River basin. This northern capital lies 700 kilometers away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, covering 20,107 square kilometers, giving it the distinction of being the second largest province in the country. It is nestled between Mae Hong Son province on the western border, picturesque Myanmar (Burma) to the north, the quaint provinces of Lampang, Lamphun and Chiang Rai to the east and finally the refined Tak and Lamphun provinces to the south. The breathtaking terrain is full of not only dazzling flora and fauna, but also the hill tribes homes in the mountains and jungles. At 310 meters above sea level, this capital of the northern region entices her visitors to explore and play amongst her captivating natural beauty.
Download Chiang Mai Overview Travel Guide PDF. Embraced by the majestic Chiang Dao mountain range, Chiang Mai is home to Doi Inthanon, which at 2,575 meters above sea level makes it the highest peak in the country. The rich, smooth valleys set the stage for the ebb and flow of not only the largest, but the most important river in the region. The graceful Maenam Ping or Ping River flows out from the Chiang Dao mountain range giving birth to the Mae Ngam Mae Klang and Mae Chaem streams and tributaries. Chiang Mais mountains watch over her from the north to the south giving both residents and visitors an awe inspiring view of some of the most stunning scenery in Thailand.
Historically, the Ping river was the original focal point of the valley of the grand Lanna kingdom. Beckoning traders from China and surrounding regions, the Ping provided not only a passage for commerce, but also a necessary resource for the farmers who still rely on her vital waters to nurture local agriculture. Hundreds of years later, Chiang Mai finds herself host to travelers and adventurers from around the globe looking to explore her legendary Thai hospitality, her stunning natural beauty and her tangible romantic history.
As years, decades and centuries passes, the distinguished Lanna kingdom saw its people grow in both strength and wealth. Always maintaining her distinctive culture, the people of Chiang Mai blossomed independently of the great Ayutthaya and Sukhothai kingdoms. One needs only to explore the magnificent chedis and temples to appreciate the personality of a proud and vibrant culture.
The vigor of the Lanna kingdom withstood a Burmese invasion that left her almost abandoned. By diligently passing down ancient skills and traditions, the Lanna people not only maintained their culture for hundreds of years, but also ensured that their past would never be forgotten. Even today, Chiang Mai is one of Thailands most visited cities, famous for her artistic craftsmanship that is based on ancient methods and talents, her alluring physical beauty and the grace and charm of her people. In a country famous for its shopping, Chiang Mai stands out for the very quality of her art.
Being home to not only noble temples and radiant natural attractions, Chiang Mai boasts one of the most culturally distinctive identities in Thailand. Porcelain chips in every color of the rainbow coexist with religious sculptures and statues on the grand temples. Panda, Wat Chiang Man, Wat Ku Tao and Wat Chedi Luang beckon visitors and residents alike to step back in time and experience the ancient mysticism that is synonymous with Thai culture. For the more adventurous traveler, nature tours, mountain hikes, and other trekking activities will make sure that your time spent in Chiang Mai will never be forgotten.
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