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larger text smaller A Guide to Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai (เชียงใหม่) Province, some 700 kms north of Bangkok, often referred to as the Rose of the North, is a fascinating example of merging the city's 700-year tradition with modern development. The old city of Chiang Mai with its indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. Visitors can find handicrafts of silk, silver and other jewels, umbrellas and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. For a few years one can find as well masterpieces of Thai contemporary art. Just 20 minutes drive away from downtown Doi Suthep is located, a famous Buddhist site. The province is mountainous and Thailand's highest peak Doi Inthanon (2575m) can be found here. Hill tribes of unique cultures enhance Chiang Mai's distinctive diversity. From the end of the 1970s, mainly backpackers started to discover the beauty of the city and the province of Chiang Mai. Still today backpackers can find low-priced accommodation. however luxury tourists won't miss anything since the development of a full range of hotels in and around the city. 

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Mae Ai Fang Chaiprakarn Chiang Dao Phrao San Sai Mae Rim Doi Saket Mae Chaem Hang Dong Saraphee Sankampaeng Sanpatong Jomthong Chiang Mai City Chiang Mai International Airport Chaingmai map
Night Bazaar Chiang Mai City (เมืองเชียงใหม่) is the capital district (Amphoe Mueang) of Chiang Mai Province.

The district contains the city of Chiang Mai. Neighboring districts are (from the north clockwise) Mae Rim, San Sai, San Kamphaeng, Saraphi and Hang Dong. The main river through the district is the Ping River.

The city center of Chiang Mai is not to be missed on any trip to the North of Thailand. The area is filled with shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.

The marvelous Chiang Mai offers a noteworthy and pleasurable experience for every traveler, from young travelers to seasoned tourists and families alike.

The main sightseeing items are located 'intra muros' (inside the fortifications) while more and more recent development took place in the area around the city's walls.
Mae Ai Mae Ai (แม่อาย) is the northernmost district of Chiang Mai Province.

Neighboring districts are (from the southwest clockwise) Fang of Chiang Mai Province, Shan State of Myanmar, Mae Fa Luang, Mueang Chiang Rai and Mae Suai of Chiang Rai Province. Most of the area consists of complicated mountains, a part of Phi Pan Nam Mountain Range, about 400-2,285 meters above sea level.

There are important mountains such as Doi Pha Hhom Bhog, it is the second highest mountain of Thailand, Doi Bhoo Muan and Doi Ang-Khang which is the origin of Mae Fang River, which is one of the most important rivers aside of the Kok River.

Mae Fang National Park, located in Amphoe Mae Ai, Amphoe Fang, Amphoe Chai Prakarn of Chiang Mai Province, consists of complicated geography which is a part of a watershed called Dan Lao Mountain Range.

It is the productive forest which not only has a great number of plants and animals but also beautiful natures, such as Huai Bond Cave, Hot-mineral Water Pond, Hot Spring and Mae Jai Stream.
Fang Fang (ฝาง) is a district in the northern part of Chiang Mai Province.

Neighboring districts are (from the northeast clockwise) Mae Ai of Chiang Mai Province, Mae Suai of Chiang Rai Province, Chai Prakan of Chiang Mai Province again and Shan State of Myanmar.

The main sightseeing points are :
- The Doi Phahompok National Park
- The Doi Angkhang royal research station

This royal agricultural station is situated among beautiful mountainous scenery. With a cool climate year round, this 1300-metre high mountain is a demonstration site for planting and researching temperate flowers, fruits and vegetables under the Royal patronage.

Besides, visitors can visit several hill tribe villages on the slopes. Trekking and mountain biking on some interesting trails can also be made in the area.
Chaiprakarn Chaiprakarn (ไชยปราการ) Doi Wiang Pha is to be announced as a national park covering the areas of Mae Fang National Conserved Forest in Tambol Sridongyen, Tambol Maetalob, Chaiprakarn District, Tambol Mae Kha, Tambol Mae Kha, Fang District, Chiang Mai Province, and the left side of Mae Lao National Conserved Forest in Tambol Pa Daed, Tambol Srithoi, Tambol Thakor of Chiang Rai Province within an approximate area of 583 square kilometers or 364,375 rai.

The geographical features of the National Park consist of high mountains, extending northwards, which are regarded as the boundary between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces. Doi Wiang Pha is the highest mountain of the National Park, at the altitude of 1,834 meters above the medium sea level. Most of the areas are water-source forests for major gullies, particularly Fang River and branches of Lao River such as Mae Fangluang Gully, Mae Fangnoi Gully, Yangmin River, etc.

Due to its abundance of forests, varieties of plants, and different altitudes of the areas (300-1,834 meters), the National Park has become the source of foods and dwelling places for different kinds of wild animals including Muntiacus Muntjak, wild boars, gorals, porcupines, wild rabbits, monkeys, masked palm civets, squirrels, tree shrews, and different kinds of birds such as White-rumped Shama, turtle doves, hawks, while fowls, etc
Chiang Dao Chiang Dao (เชียงดาว) is a district of Chiang Mai Province in northern Thailand. It is nicknamed "Little Tuscany" and there are actually a few local wines produced in the area. Many distinctive shops and famous restaurants attract tourists around the globe to this area. Tourists gather around to visit Chiang Dao for bargain shopping, tasting delightful food, and sightseeing.

Chiang Dao is not to be missed on any trip to Chiang Mai in Thailand. The area is filled with shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.

The marvelous Chiang Dao offers a noteworthy and pleasurable experience for every traveler.

Neighboring districts are (from the northeast clockwise) Fang, Chai Prakan, Phrao, Mae Taeng of Chiang Mai Province, Pai of Mae Hong Son Province, and Wiang Haeng of Chiang Mai again. To the north is the Shan State of Myanmar.

An interesting fact, Chiang Dao is the only province in Thailand that has all twelve hill tribes in residence as well, the Pha Daeng National Park is located in the district.
Phrao Phrao (พร้าว) is a district in the northeastern part of Chiang Mai Province in northern Thailand.

Neighboring districts are (from the south clockwise) Doi Saket, Mae Taeng, Chiang Dao, Chai Prakan of Chiang Mai Province, Mae Suai and Wiang Pa Pao of Chiang Rai Province.

Attractions in Amphoe Phrao are the Bua Tong Waterfall and Nam Phu Chet Si ('Nam Phu' means 'fountain' - or in this case 'geyser' - and 'Chet Si' means '7 colours').

It is a mineral geyser containing calcium-carbonate, gushing from the ground and then overflowing streams and small waterfalls.

Its streambed is solid white, glittering crusted with calcium carbonate. Sunshine reflected from the clear flowing and falling water, as well as the white stream bed, makes for quite impressive natural scenery.

As well the Doi Mae Pung Temple is definitely worth a visit.
San Sai San Sai (สันทราย) is a district in the central part of Chiang Mai Province.

In the rainy season, the Ping and Khao rivers bring a lot of sand to accumulate at the area of the rivers join together year by year.

A large Sand dune used to appear where now the San Sai district office stands. When the government created the district in this area in the late 1890, they selected name San Sai, where San means Dune and Sai means Sand.
Mae Rim Mae Rim (แม่ริม) is a district (amphoe) in the central part of Chiang Mai Province.

Neighboring districts are (from the north clockwise) Mae Taeng, San Sai, Mueang Chiang Mai, Hang Dong and Samoeng of Chiang Mai Province. Mae Rim – and neighboring Samoeng are very popular destination in Chiang Mai’s vicinity.

The main attractionsa re the various mountain areas, tea plantations as well as the Botanical garden, attracting visitors throughout the year, both locals as well as foreigners.

In the recent years there has been quite some development in mid and upper market accommodations in the area and therefore it grows beyond the day touring to accommodating overnight tourists who are visiting either of the popular sightseeing attractions.

While a bit distant from the city center of Chiang Mai, Mae Rim / Samoeng are definitely of growing popularity and deserve attention when traveling to the region.
Doi Saket Doi Saket (ดอยสะเก็ด) is a district (amphoe) in the eastern part of Chiang Mai Province.

Neighboring districts are (from the south clockwise) Mae On, San Kamphaeng, San Sai, Mae Taeng, Phrao of Chiang Mai Province, Wiang Pa Pao of Chiang Rai Province and Mueang Pan of Lampang Province.

The district is predominantly a rural farming area, containing a mixture of rice fields on the valley floor to orchard and other farming on the hillsides.

The village itself is located a 30 minute drive east from Tha Pae Gate in Chiang Mai.The town's economic focus is still agricultural, and the city boasts a large produce market.

The village is most famous with Thai tourists for its beautiful, modern-style wall murals inside of Wat Doi Saket.
Mae Chaem Mae Chaem (แม่แจ่ม) is a district of Chiang Mai Province. Neighboring districts are (from the east clockwise) Samoeng, Mae Wang, Chom Thong and Hot of Chiang Mai Province, and Mae Sariang, Mae La Noi, Khun Yuam, Mueang Mae Hong Son and Pai of Mae Hong Son Province.

Main attractions are Rafting on the Mae Chaem River as well as Traditional Cotton Weaving Villages, which uniquely woven fabric is in great demand because of its striking color and indigenous style. As well the Phutha Oen Temple (Wat Phutha Oen) which is located in Chang Khoeng Sub-district.

According to legend, it was built in the early Ratanakosin era. One of the most intriguing features in this temple the Water.Chapel, a chapel surrounded by water battlements instead of the ordinary cement battlements. Not to forget as well is the Mae Chon Luang Agricultural Station, which is nestled in a beautiful valley.

Its hill slopes have been developed into stepped plantations, which provide serene mountain panoramas. It is especially impressive in the cool season of December when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and when the area is covered in lovely pink and white petals.
Hang Dong Hang Dong (หางดง) is a district of Chiang Mai Province.

Neighboring districts are (from the southwest clockwise) San Pa Tong, Mae Wang, Samoeng, Mae Rim, Mueang Chiang Mai, Saraphi of Chiang Mai Province and Mueang Lamphun of Lamphun Province .

One of the main attraction is the Chiang Mai Cultural Centre located at the beginning of Chiang Mai-Hang Dong road. The center has an exceptional collection of Lanna art, and intriguing displays of traditional northern culture. A spectacular folk dance and tribal shows are performed while the typical northern dinner Khan Tok is served.

As well, the Lanna Woodcarving Art Museum,(Ban Roi An Phan Yang Museum) is the exhibition center of antiques and woodcarving masterpieces located at Chiang Mai-Sanpatong Road.

Not to forget the Baan Tawaii Handicraft center and market, which can be reached easily from Hang Dong Market. One can find a whole range of decorative items from antique to modern in the various shop houses and factories.
Saraphee Saraphee (สารภี) is a district of Chiang Mai Province.

Saraphi borders the districts (from west clockwise) Hang Dong, Mueang Chiang Mai, San Kamphaeng of Chiang Mai Province, Mueang Lamphun of Lamphun Province.

The district was established in 1891, then named Yang Noeng (ยางเนิ้ง). In 1927 it was renamed to Saraphi.

The district is subdivided into 12 communes (tambon), which are further subdivided into 105 villages Yang Noeng is a township which covers parts of the tambon Yang Noeng, Saraphi and Nong Phueng.

There are further 11 Tambon administrative organizations (TAO).
Sankampaeng Sankampaeng (สันกำแพง) San Kamphaeng area is very famous for its many silk and cotton weaving factories. It is located about 13 kilometers East of Chiang Mai.

Along the road from Chiang Mai to San Kamphaeng, there are many handicraft shops selling traditional Thai items, such as woodcarvings, silverware, ceramic and lacquer ware to visitors and local tourists alike.

Located in San Kamphaeng is Bo Sang a village that produces handmade umbrellas. In addition to umbrellas, visitors will also be able to find various woodcarving and Thai silk products here.

Last but ot least the hot springs set amidst natural surroundings of trees and verdant hills, are located 36 kilometers from town.

The water is high in sulphur contentand possesses curative and restorative properties.

Basic facilities for tourist available are accommodations, a swimming pool, dining facilities and separate mineral water bathing rooms.
Sanpatong San Pa Tong (สันป่าตอง) is a district of Chiang Mai Province it is located 22 km south from Chiang Mai town, located on a main road number 108 "Chiang mai - Hod".

Neighboring districts are (from the southwest clockwise) Doi Lo, Mae Wang, Hang Dong of Chiang Mai Province, Mueang Lamphun and Pa Sang of Lamphun Province.

Experience the serenity and charm of our authentic northern culture, Explore the distinctive cultural and natural ways of Sanpatong lives.

In Sanpatong district, An old town have been founded in the late of 7th or early 8th century AD during Hariphunchai, the former name of the city of Lumphun. Lumphun's independence era was ended in the late 13th century, when it was taken by King mengrai and incorporated into The Lanna Kingdom.

The main attractions and point of interest are Bamboo Rafting and Elephant trekking at Maewang, Doi Inthanon National Park ad most of all Baan Tawai woodcraft center and souvenir / decoration item market – definitely a worthwhile excursion if time allows, as many of the goods found in other places in Thailand are produced and sold there
Jomthong Jom Thong (จอมทอง) is a district in the southern part of Chiang Mai Province. Neighboring districts are (from the south clockwise) Hot, Mae Chaem, Mae Wang, Doi Lo of Chiang Mai Province, Wiang Nong Long and Ban Hong of Lamphun Province. The important river is the Ping River.
The Doi Inthanon National Park is the main attraction in this district where are located:

Doi Inthanon (ดอยอินทนนท์) is the highest mountain in Thailand. The mountain was also known in the past as Doi Luang (meaning big mountain) or Doi Ang Ka, meaning the crow's pond top.
Doi Tao Lake, a large reservoir, is actually situated above the Bhumibol Dam in Tak province. The lake offers many recreational opportunities during the rainy and cool seasons, including rafting and cruise services to Bhumibol Dam.
Op LuangThis national park offers a breathtaking view of the natural scenery of a steep river valley amidst scenic mountains and teak forests.
Phra That Doi Noi Temple (Wat Phra That Doi Noi)During excavations, numerous marble Buddha images, Buddha image containers, and a chapel were discovered. The hilltop temple provides visitors with a panoramic view of the scenic beauty of the Mae Ping River and surrounding hills and valleys. The temple can be reached on foot by climbing 241 steps.
Phra That Si Chom Thong Temple (Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong) The temple can be dated back to the mid-1400s and houses a collection of bronze Buddha images while the secondary chapel contains a holy Buddha relic.
Chiang Mai International Airport Chiang Mai International Airport (ท่าอากาศยานนานาชาติเชียงใหม่) (CNX)

Chiang Mai is a major gateway to Northern Thailand that is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination and its international airport welcomes over 2 million visitors per year, receiving 130 flights a week from Bangkok as well as Singapore, China, Taiwan, Myanmar and Laos. The airport has a full range of facilities to offer to its visitors.

Located less than 10 minutes by taxi from the city center, Chiang Mai International Airport consists of a domestic and international terminals in a single building.

There are travel agent offices at the airport and customer service desks for Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Bangkok Airways, Air Asia, Nok Air, One-Two-Go and a number of other airlines. There are several exchange bureaus and ATMs in the terminal as well.

Chiang Mai Airport has several food outlets, including two coffee shops, a deli and a fast food outlet. There are also a number of shops selling silk, handicrafts, fresh produce and souvenirs.

Within the departure lounge there are additional food and merchandise shops.
Hotels in Chiang Mai




Getting there Attractions Scenic places Activities
● By Car have 2 main route to Chiang Mai:
Route 1: from Bangkok (approx. 8 hrs.), drive on Highway No.1 (Phahonyothin) and turn left to Highway No.32 (Asian Highway) which passes Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, and Nakhon Sawan, then take Highway No.117 to Phitsanulok and Highway No.11 to Lampang, Lamphun and Chiang Mai. The total distance is 695 kms.
Route 2: From Nakhon Sawan, take Highway No.1 passing Kamphaeng Phet, Tak, Lampang, and Chiang Mai. Total distance is 696 kilometers.
● By Bus Time Tables
● By Train Time Tables
● By Air Time Tables
There are many city attractions in Chiangmai for tourist to visit.

As in every main destination in Thailand, Chiang Mai has quite a few remarkable temples such as Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Chiang Man and Wat Ku Tao, Wat Chedi Luang , Wat U Mong, Wat Chet Yot etc, In addition, the Chiang Mai National Museum houses a collection of Lanna Thai works of art, ancient Buddha images, and war weaponry. An alternative to the usual land based tours are the Scorpion – Tailed River Cruises, Cruising the Ping River going back to an earlier way of living as well as various River Cruise Program offering picturesque views of several historical places along the riverbanks.
Chiang Mai province, Thailand, is famous for its natural beauty, The many mountains around Chiang Mai are home to Thailand's many colorful hilltribe people. As well Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand’s highest mountain which is 2,565 meters above sea level. As well, Borichinda Cave, a deep cave featuring stalactite and stalagmite formations, Buddha images and a rocky stream is very popular to visitors, as is the Ang Ka Luang Natural Trail, which is 360 metres, passing through wet and cold areas in a lush valley. The Ob Luang Gorge, offers a breathtaking view of the natural scenery of a steep river valley amidst scenic. Other established projects are the Birdwatching Information Centre and the Elephant Natural Foundation, to see elephants in their natural environment and living their lives peacefully.
● Golfing ChiangMai and Vinity offers a range of challenging golf courses with magnificent views of the mountains and scenery. Accommodation can be found nearby.
● Mountain Biking trails are widely available on several routes in Chiang Mai and the hills beyond, as well as motor-biking the Mae Hong Son Loop.
● Thai Cooking classes as well as Thai Massage classes are both available and make a nice souvenir to bring back home while fun to attend.
● Chiang Mai Zoo's current main attraction is a pair of cuddly Pandas as well as a baby Panda on display from China as an exchange with Thailand.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2010


Time is 20:52 in Chiang Mai