Chiang Mai travel tips for backpackers

Posted by paul on February 19th, 2009 filed in Attractions, tourist tips

The capital of the province with the same name, Chiang Mai located in the northern part of the country ranks as the second most popular destination in Thailand. However, regarding size the city doesn’t remotely compare to the national capital of Bangkok. Less populated and smaller sized, Chiang Mai offers plenty of things to do and see for tourists, with the lively downtown area crammed with golden temples, yummy restaurants and a great choice of markets, which are all smoothly accessible on foot.

If you love exploring Thai Buddhist temples, then Chiang Mai is the place to go to. The appealing and sacred mountain temple, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is the colourful collection of religious structures’ highlight and perhaps the city’s absolute star attraction.

Housing the acclaimed Chiang Mai University (CMU), the provincial capital has quite a cosmopolitan ambience with a vibrant entertainment district and some of the most delicious cuisine in northern Thailand. You won’t have a chance developing the slightest feeling of being hungry!

But most holidaymakers aren’t visiting Chiang Mai for the food, temples and not even for the pulsating nightlife scene. They are more likely attracted by the hill-tribe trekking options. For many years Chiang Mai has provided Northern Thailand’s ultimate trekking base – and while some outstanding tour agencies can be found mainly in the city centre, there remain several dodgy operators as well. Before venturing into the hinterland, doing some research is highly recommended.

Today, an increasing number of adventurers are opting to start their treks at farther destinations, such as Soppong and Pai in Mae Hong Son province, where the tourist crowds are more limited offering “authentic” travel experiences.