Experience Chiang Mai, Thailand’s Northern treasure, With Thai Airways

Chiang Mai means “New City”. It was thus named as the capital of the ancient kingdom of La Na in 1296. Now Thailand’s fourth biggest city, Chiang Mai is over looked by Thailand’s tallest mountain, Doi Inthanon.

Chiang Mai is the perfect destination for visitors wishing to eschew the high-rise concrete and mayhem of Bangkok, whilst still experiencing all that Thailand has to offer. Chiang Mai offers the opportunity to get up close to its natural flora and fauna, it also has a unique cultural diversity and history that won’t be found anywhere else in the kingdom. The city preserves its wondrous identity whilst recognizing the need to sympathetically embrace modernity.

Explore the Magical Diversity of Doi Inthanon National Park 

Doi Inthanon Mountain dominates the national park and is perfect for hiking and camping. Blanketed in deciduous forest it is an up close experience for nature lovers. See the beautiful colors of the Siamese Sakura flowers and keep an eye out for 65 different mammal species that inhabit the area. Visitors inclined to ornithology will be delighted at spotting the 195 bird species, including the Rufous-Winged Buzzard.

Enjoy the Spectacle of Enchanting Waterfalls

Doi Inthanon exudes the natural beguiling beauty of many enchanting waterfalls. Mae Ya waterfall drops 250 meters over several tiers and is one of the most impressive in Thailand. There is a campsite at the Mae Pan waterfall which has a single drop of 100 meters and is well worth the effort of the 2-kilometer hike from the Mae Chaem Road.

Other waterfalls include, Mae Klang, Pha Khun Na, Wang Khwai, Wachirathan and Sirithan, all of which emanate their unique beauty.

Delve into ancient History in Chiang Mai’s Old City

Bordered by walls and moats the old city gives the visitor a glimpse into the Chiang Mai’s ancient past. Visit the oldest of the city’s temples, the 13th century Wat Chiang Man which houses the crystal Buddha and the stone bas-relief Phra Sila Buddha, said to have originated in 8th century India.

The winding, narrow lanes of the old city are home to many traditional tradespeople. Tinsmiths, cabinet makers, wood carvers and cobblers work as they have done for generations. The old city is the place to haggle for great mementos and souvenirs.

The old city has several fascinating museums that reflect its history, culture and natural environment. The Lanna Folklife Museum, Tribal Museum and the Lanna Traditional House Museum are time portals to Chiang Mai’s unique past as an independent kingdom. As a compliment to these, the Chiang Mai Historical Centre acts as an historical link from its ancient to its modern history.

Chiang Mai’s natural world is both fascinating and diverse and is encapsulated at the Museum of Insects and Natural Wonders. For over 50 years the collection at the museum has expanded to over 10,000 specimens. From mosquitos, beetles and butterflies to fossils and seashells. Every exhibit has been collected, preserved and is tended through a labor of love by Dr Rampa Rattanarithikul and her husband, Manop.

There are many tempting options of where to eat in the old city, traditional and modern. One of the best places to take a welcome shaded break is at Fern Forest Café, we promise you won’t be disappointed. Quality coffee, tea and smoothies are complimented with truly delicious food offerings.

A wide range of fresh sandwiches are always available, but it is the desserts that make this such a desirable venue. On offer are the most scrumptious cakes, gateaux and ice creams. It may be ruinous to the waistline, but it’s a great way to treat yourself.    

Absorb the Colorful Nightlife of Chiang Mai’s Colorful Nightlife

To see and feel Chiang Mai’s Night scene, there is no better place than Tha Pae Gate Walking Street. The street’s hustle and bustle of the night vendors, selling everything imaginable, is the place to haggle and buy unique souvenirs. Traditional and western food is available everywhere as are the bars to enjoy a chilled beer. Musicians and artists complete the scene for an unforgettable night in Thailand’s most colorful city.

Visitors to Thailand should never miss out on the beautiful diversity of Chiang Mai, it’s so easy to check out here.  

The best offers and deals are always with Thai Airways.