Chiang Mai has it all

Posted by paul on March 5th, 2008 filed in Uncategorized

Being one of the rare larger cities in Thailand where it is still possible to visit and admire ancient Buddhist temples located right in the core of the city centre, the name of Chiang Mai should appear on the itinerary list of each traveller to Thailand!

 Beautiful historic chedis can still be found in the city centre

Not solely boasting numerous sights of historical interest but also several ultra-modern shopping malls, Thailand’s most famous night market, a pulsating nightlife, great golf options, excellent spa and massage services, a wide range of accommodation, excellent restaurants, many different outdoor activities and laid-back welcoming locals.

  The locals are friendly and welcoming 

The layout of the ‘Rose of the North’s’ original, surrounded by a moat, city centre still retains as a pretty square, which features remains of the ancient fortified wall along with the city’s four principal gates providing main access to the historic part of town.

For too long many international visitors have incorrectly labelled Chiang Mai as solely being the region’s gateway and providing the ideal base from which where to travel further into northern Thailand. The slogan: “One day Chiang Mai is sufficient time to visit all things around” was often heard. However, by now the majority of visiting tourists has discovered and is aware of the fact that the city of Chiang Mai and its direct surrounding always has something new on offer for them to check-out!

A unique blend of fascinating cultural and religious diversity among the nearby located ethnic hill tribe villages coupled with mountainous areas, featuring unbeatable natural beauty explains the popularity of Chiang Mai, being one of Thailand’s top tourist destinations. Travellers who fully wish to explore Chiang Mai might even conclude that one week wasn’t enough time to see it all!  

The city centre of Chiang Mai has a distinct ambience, which is mainly created by its original cultural traditions such as mouth-watering (often spicy) cuisine, diverse northern dialects, impressing Lanna architecture, lively and fun-filled festivals, elegant classical dances and the production of handicrafts is a must-see locality in its own right. The Chiang Mai Zoo houses several from China ‘borrowed’ rare pandas. A must-see for children!

The capital of Chiang Mai province is also bestowed with nearby located pristine areas of exceptional natural beauty, cool mountains, photogenic waterfalls, and much more nature-based visitor sites. Ideally it takes only about a 20-minute ride from the bustling downtown area to reach a peaceful and relaxing green area.

It takes only a short drive to escape the hustle and bustle of the city

Travellers shopping in Chiang Mai may purchase inexpensively priced souvenirs, jewellery, silk products, CDs, DVDs, clothes, toys, VDO games and many more goods. Chiang Mai is a destination where budget-minded backpackers, luxury tourists, and entire families all can experience the perfect holiday.