Beautiful Chiang Mai, Thailand

Amidst the rolling foot hills of the Himalayan Mountains some 800 kilometers north of Bangkok is the culturally rich city of Chiang Mai, the longest continuously lived in settlement from the ancient days of Siam. Founded in 1296 AD it was isolated from Bangkok and could only be reached by an arduous river journey or an elephant back trip until the 1920's. Such isolation has helped keep Chiang Mai's distinctive charm intact up to the present day.

Handicrafts have been an important part of Chiang Mai culture for hundreds of years. During your stay in Chiang Mai you will see talented crafts persons at work and be able to purchase their finely handcrafted products at unbelievably low prices direct from the factories. No evening is complete without shopping at the famous Chiang Mai night bazaar for incredible bargains for everything from clothes to jewelry.

Inside Chiang Mai's remaining city wall are more then 30 temples dating back to the founding of the principality in 1296. Doi Suthep temple which is on the mountaintop at 3500 feet above and overlooking the city is a shrine to both Thai and foreign visitors. These Temples are a combination of Burmese, Sri Lankan, and Lanna Thai styles decorated with beautiful wood carvings, Naga staircases, leonine and angelic guardians, gilded umbrellas and pagodas laced with gold filigree.

Chiang Mai is not only the home of culture, charm and hospitality but adventure as well. Elephant riding, trekking, hiking, camping and long tail boat riding are all very popular activities and are offered in our excursion. Orchids, butterflies, and exotic plants and fauna will surround you. Friendly hill tribe people greet you. Waterfalls and spectacular mountain top vistas will dazzle you.This is the best way to enjoy the unique natural beauty of the north Thailand country side and it's people.

As countless travelers have discovered, Chiang Mai's many attractions enthrall, delight, and capture your imagination. To visit this northern city just once is to remain forever enchanted.

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All Thailand Experiences and Welcome to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Magazine