Chiang Mai, which means 'New city', is actually more than 700 years old. It was founded by King Mengrai in 1296.
Burma and the Mongol Empire being a constant threat to the city led to the formation of a moat and a defensive wall which still stands to this day.
Due to constant Burmese intervention the city was abandoned for 1776 - 1791.
The city has since been regaining its importance as the second most sought after destination economically and culturally after the capital city of Bangkok.
Hardly a square mile in area, the city is accessible best on foot.
Temples more than half a millennium old are spread across the city giving it an old world charm which is complemented by the Buddhist monks who beg for alms and pray in the morning.
- Chiang Mai Travel Essentials
- Chiang Mai Tourism
- Must Know Before You Travel to Chiang Mai
- Exchanging Money in Chiang Mai
- Nightlife in Chiang Mai
- Shopping in Chiang Mai
1. Chiang Mai Travel Essentials
- Weather: 18 - 32°C
- Ideal duration: 2-4 days
- Best Time: December - February
- Religion :The most popular religion in Chiang Mai is Buddhism with over 300 Buddhist temples spread across the city.
- Language : When in Chiang Mai you will hear Kham Muang being spoken in the streets which is also known as Northern Thai or Lann. The second most popular language will be Central Thai. Being a popular tourist location in recent times, English is well spoken by hotels and tour operators.
2. Chiang Mai Tourism
Formerly the seat of the Lanna Kingdom and regarded as the northern capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai is entirely opposite to what first-timers to Thailand expect it to be.
Unlike its southern counterparts, Chiang Mai is known for its laid back vibes, numerous temples and monasteries, crowded local markets, natural and historical sites and countryside with lush greenery.
Catering to a large number of ex-pats, young contemporary travellers and families alike, Chiang Mai is a backpacking haven where activities like hiking, cycling, rafting and a plethora of outdoor activities take precedence over a supercharged nightlife of drinks and loud music.
Serviced by Chiang Mai International Airport and lying just an overnight train journey away from Bangkok, this sleepy northern town sees a rising footfall of enthusiastic tourists with each passing year.
Chiang Mai's historical centre is the walled city, with more than 30 temples from the ancient Lanna kingdom. Wat Phra Doi Suthep and Wat Phra Singh are some of the most visited Buddhist temples in this region, with the former being a landmark attraction housing the famous Emerald Buddha statue.
Old world temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Umong are also frequented by tourists. Visits to these temples involve hikes through scenic routes and sometimes tropical vegetation.
Chiang Mai also caters to those who love the outdoors and all things natural, with Doi Inthanon National Park catering to hikers and trekkers and the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon offering cliff jumping and swimming.
If adventurous enough, one can hike through uncharted paths to go waterfall hopping. Like Phuket down south, the elephant farms such as Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and Patara Elephant Farm offer tourists a rich experience of interacting and feeding the gentle giants.
Cultural experiences, too, are at the forefront in Chiang Mai. Dishes like Khao Soi are proudly presented to tourists looking to try the local flavours. If interested enough, one could even indulge in affordable cooking classes.
In addition, visitors are encouraged to visit the many hill tribes in the region, such as the Karen Longneck tribe and interact with them.
Local bazaars like the Warorot Market and the Sunday and Saturday weekend markets offer a wide variety of souvenirs, clothes, accessories and an unapologetic course in bartering with the locals.
On the more modern side of things, Nimmanhaemin Road hosts many shopping complexes, cinemas, bars and high-end restaurants.
3. Must Know Before You Travel to Chiang Mai
1. Tap water is generally considered not safe to drink in a lot of places. Therefore, when travelling around, it is recommended to buy or carry water bottles filled with safe drinking water.
2. It is easy to travel by Uber in and around Chiang Mai and is quite affordable as well.
3. Bugs and insects can be an issue, especially when visiting during warmer seasons. It is recommended that travellers carry ointments and sprays to stay safe.
4. Exchanging Money in Chiang Mai
There are many options for currency exchange in Chiang Mai like ATMs and foreign exchange bureaus. These are easily accessible at the airport and almost all major tourist attractions.
FOREX booths are quite common and exchanging currency should not be a problem.
The safest option is to exchange money upon arriving at the airport.
It is advisable to not exchange currency before arriving in Thailand.
Drinking at the side of the Ping River is common amongst locals and tourists alike with live music playing in the background.
DrinkingNimmanheimin Road is one of the more popular areas amongst people who like good music and good food.
DrinkingLook out for Monkey Club when in that area. In keeping with the theme of entertainment venues in Thailand in general many places have cushion laden mattresses on the floor where backpackers can kick back with a beer and enjoy live music.
DrinkingSome of the popular bars in the area are Boy Blues Bar, Oasis Rooftop Garden and North Gate Jazz Co-op.
6.Shopping in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai hosts a multitude of flea markets with the most popular being the Saturday and the Sunday Walking Street. Both markets run from 4 PM in the evening to midnight.
Be ready to haggle for the best price as the sellers usually quote 3 - 4 times the price on every item.
Popular items which can be taken home from here are imitation Buddhist relics, paintings, musical instruments, small trinkets and junk jewellery.