Before moving on to the map of Chiang Mai, I would like to briefly tell you how the city works. In fact, Chiang Mai is very easy to navigate, since the city center is a moat in the form of a square, from which streets diverge in all directions. Inside the square there is the Old City district - a backpacker part with guesthouses for every taste, as well as the most famous temples. As a rule, everyone comes here first and stops, and then decides what to do next. So this square (moat) makes life much easier for travelers.
If you are planning to visit Chiang Mai and are looking for accommodation, let me remind you that we have . Or you can search and book a hotel in Chiang Mai on the RoomGuru service.
All large maps are clickable and can be downloaded to your computer. To do this, first click on the picture, and then click download.
The Chiang Mai map consists of two - northern and southern, and there is also a separate map of the zoo and a map of the territory of Chiang Mai University.
How to use the card? Each file is lined with a grid, and each line has its own designation. You can find the point you need on this map, just like on a regular globe. There are three lists of different objects with coordinates, or in another way it can be called an alphabetical index. It looks like this: “2nd Home Guest House: LG201”, where the first part is the name of the guesthouse, and the second part is its coordinates on the map.
Map of the zoo and university grounds in Chiang Mai
Additionally, there are two more detailed map pieces. All indexes are already available on the cards and there is no need to download text files.
A small map to quickly imagine what the city looks like, where the square is located, where the intercity bus station () and the railway station are located.
© Chiang Mai is one of the large, beautiful and historical cities in Thailand.
The province of Chiang Mai is considered one of the most popular among tourists. One of the factors that influences this is that the place has a rich history and culture.
Unlike the newly built resort towns, of which there are many on the map of the kingdom, here you can not only take a walk, but also spend several days sightseeing.
According to experienced travelers, in order to truly get to know Thailand, you need to visit Chiang Mai at least once, because it is in this city that the spirit of the kingdom is felt best.
The capital of the province and at the same time the center of all Northern Thailand is Chiang Mai Town. Near provincial town Laos and Burma are located, which together make up the legendary Golden Triangle of Southeast Asia. This city is the fifth largest in the entire kingdom.
Chiang Mai on the map of Thailand
Not far from it is Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in the entire kingdom. Its height is 2776 meters above sea level. This place is the only one in the entire kingdom where snow falls.
Since the city is located in the north of the country, the climate in Thailand is mostly temperate. At the top of Doi Intahanon there is the most cold spot Thailand, where temperatures sometimes drop to minus eight degrees.
In Chiang Mai, as throughout the kingdom, there are three main seasons:
- Moderate season. Lasts from November to February. At this time, the heat subsides, although the nights are still warm. It is this period of time that is considered to be the most suitable for a holiday in Chiang Mai.
- Hot. The season starts in March and lasts until the end of June. It is at this time that the heat rises to a maximum of 40 degrees. This heat contributes to the outbreak of fires in the jungle and surrounding areas. The city is periodically shrouded in a smoke screen coming from the burning forests. This time is the worst time to visit the town.
- Rain season. As throughout the kingdom, the rainy season begins in Chiang Mai from July to the end of October. The cold monsoon brings coolness and regular showers from India.
These four months are perfect for visiting the cultural capital of Thailand. At this time, it is not very stuffy there, the abundance of rain helps to restore vegetation, and even the air becomes cleaner.
© The highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon. Despite the changeable weather, the city’s nature remains picturesque all year round and fascinates everyone who comes there. On the map of the country you will notice that Chiang Mai is located among high mountain ranges and green hills, next to the Ping River. In the mountains that surround the province there are many small villages where local settlers live. They hide in the thick tropical forests, but visitors to the kingdom can still visit to immerse themselves in Thai culture.
Population of the province
More than a million Thais live in Chiang Mai province, of which 170,000 are in the capital alone. The population of Chiang Mai looks different from other Thais: the people there are darker, shorter and look more like the Chinese. But they differ not only in appearance, but also in character.
Thais in general are known to be very smiling and friendly people. The local population of Chiang Mai seems to tourists to be an ideal nation. Calm and pleasant to talk to, they are ready to help anyone and everyone.
© Chiang Mai is different people and different nature. On the territory of this small province live various ancient tribes and nationalities with their own history and customs, whose small villages are not even marked on the map. They are mainly engaged in growing tea and rice, hunting wild animals and raising livestock.
Other local residents living in the main part of the village also devote a lot of time to agriculture. But the main profit comes from the tourism industry, of course. In addition, the capital of the city is known throughout the world for high-quality carpets created by local artisans.
Most of the local residents speak one of the dialects of the Thai language. But, since there are always a lot of tourists in the city, when communicating with them, Thais switch to quite acceptable English.
City `s history
Chiang Mai is a city with truly rich history, which goes back more than 700 years. It is considered one of the most significant in all of Thailand. The Lanna Kingdom, which covers a huge part of northern Thailand, has always been prosperous, and the area where this moment Chiang Mai is located - surprisingly picturesque.
In 1296, King Mengrai founded a new city in this area called Chiang Mai.
© The majestic city of Chiang Mai. 500 years after its founding, the city would have been devastated and rebuilt. This happened during the struggle for power between the Lanna princes and the Burmese governors. After restoration, in 1726 the city was repopulated by residents from neighboring villages. And the vassals of Siam began to rule the lives of the locals. The period lasted until 1939, when the last of the vassals died.
How to get to Chiang Mai
The easiest way to get to Chiang Mai is by plane. The city is located three kilometers from the airport () , from which you can easily take a taxi. A taxi, which officially belongs to the airport, will take you to your desired location in the city for 120 baht. Locals rate their services a little higher.
But you can choose a cheaper way to travel - by bus. It is better to choose tourist type buses. They move faster and are more comfortable to ride in. Intercity buses that can take you to Chiang Mai are divided into three types: VIP, first class and second class. Travel conditions depend on the class.
You shouldn't be afraid of trains in Thailand either. quite developed. At the same time, the trip will cost you little. True, a direct train runs to Chiang Mai only from the capital of Thailand.
Train timetable Bangkok-Chiang Mai
| Train no. | Train type | Departure time | Arrival time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Special Express | 8:30 | 20:30 |
| 109 | Rapid | 14:30 | 05:10 |
| 11 | Special Express | 18:00 | 06:15 |
| 1 | Special Express | 18:10 | 07:45 |
| 13 | Special Express | 19:35 | 09:45 |
| 51 | Express | 22:00 | 12:45 |
Urban transport
You can also drive around the city itself different types public transport. There is not as much of it there as in the capital. Thais mostly travel by their own transport or songthaew.
Sights and interesting places
Chiang Mai province attracts both experienced tourists and beginners. There really is something to see there: natural beauty, original tribes living in the jungle, and, of course, old temples and architectural buildings.
You can explore all this either on your own or using the services of one of the guides. Those who choose the first option should familiarize themselves with the list of the most interesting places to visit.
Museum of Natural Wonders
Founded by an entomologist, this museum displays an extensive collection of various tropical insects and minerals. There are also mysterious natural objects, collected by the same entomologist.
© Museum of Insects and natural wonders. Doi Suthep Temple
One of the most famous Buddhist temples in all of Thailand. This building, built back in 1328, is considered the hallmark of the province.
Zoo and aquarium
It was built in 1955 by an American. Later it was also completed huge size underground aquarium, which is home to more than eight thousand different sea creatures.
National Museum
The museum is one of the most important in the north of the kingdom. The exhibits in its halls reflect the rich culture of Lanna and the surrounding northern provinces.
© National Museum Chiang Mai is the largest museum in Northern Thailand. Night market
There are several night markets in the city. But the truly interesting one is located next to the river. Almost everything is sold there, but it attracts tourists mainly with various handicrafts sold there by local artisans. This is definitely the best place to buy souvenirs.
© Chiang Mai: Night Bazaar. You can also just have a lot of fun in the city. There are plenty of relevant establishments there: from clubs and discos, to go-go bars and live music establishments.
Accommodation in Chiang Mai
The province is perfect for settling there for a long time. The province has fairly cheap accommodation, and tourists have plenty to choose from, as there are many houses, townhouses and rooms for rent in the city and surrounding areas. In addition, in the city, of course, you can check into one of the hotels, the cost of living in which depends on their level.
© Hotel Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai 5* (Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai). For example, a room in a guesthouse can be rented for 250-500 baht per day, rent for a month will cost 5-7 thousand baht. Rent an apartment or condo 4-7 thousand baht, payment for water, electricity is carried out separately. The cost of hotel rooms will be 5,000 - 25,000 baht per week, from the proposed conditions, 2 stars and above.
- Despite the fact that Chiang Mai is located in a country with a hot climate, the nights here can sometimes be very cold. Therefore, experienced travelers recommend bringing a sweater or jacket along with light clothing and swimsuits.
- But when going to the temple, be sure to cover your legs and shoulders. This is required by the local dress code.
- When choosing which local dish to try first, be sure to pay attention to Chiang Mai sausages.
- Of all the variety of transport in Chiang Mai, it is better to give preference to taxis with meters. This will help you save on traveling around the city and avoid being scammed.
- There are often traffic jams in the city, so when going somewhere, be sure to leave early in order to be on time.
- Remember that in Chiang Mai, as throughout Thailand, it is customary to bargain, both with tuk-tuk drivers and in local markets.
It is considered the spiritual and religious center of the country.
It’s worth noting right away that there is no sea in Chiang Mai. But this is where you can get acquainted with customs and traditions.
Chiang Mai was founded as a fortified city; the name of the city itself translates as “new city”. The center and gathering place for tourists is the so-called “square” - an area separated by a dilapidated stone wall. Numerous temples located inside the “square” will help tourists understand Buddhist traditions. The infrastructure of Chiang Mai is well developed - it is a large city that has all the benefits of civilization.
In addition to cultural and historical monuments, Chiang Mai, like any other city in Northern Thailand, will be remembered for its unusually beautiful mountainous terrain. This is the best place to experience the hospitality of the locals.
Tours to Chiang Mai
Prices for tours for 2 people for 7 nights with departure from Moscow are given.
During the day +34 °C
Weather
Weather northern regions Thailand differs from the hot climate of the south of the country. IN winter months, from November to February, temperatures in Chiang Mai drop to 15 °C, and rain is rare during this time. From March to June, the air temperature stays around 30° - 40°C, and it becomes very humid, although there is not much precipitation at this time. From July to October it usually rains constantly.
In the mountains of northern cities it is always cold; the temperature at any time of the year can remain at only 5 degrees above zero. When going to the mountains, do not forget to take warm clothes with you. Unfortunately, the city is experiencing high level smoke, especially from January to March. At this time, rice fields are burned, so the whole of Northern Thailand smells of burning.
Hotels
A cluster of hotels is located in and near the “square” - the center of Chiang Mai. Hotels in the city center, as a rule, are located close to each other, so the view from the room window may be of the neighboring building, and not of the picturesque mountains. In general, accommodation in Chiang Mai can be described as modest and low-priced. Although here you can find comfortable hotels with large rooms and all amenities.
Attractions and entertainment
Chiang Mai - center excursion tourism. Dozens of mountain tribes live in its vicinity, including the famous Karens, who decorate the necks of women with rings.
You can take a tour to a tribal village, go on a mountain trek, or simply explore the temples, of which there are more than 300 in Chiang Mai. Inside the ancient city walls of Chiang Mai are beautiful temples and stupas. The famous Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep temple is striking in its beauty. According to legend, the site for the construction of the temple was chosen by an elephant loaded with sacred relics - the animal stopped and trumpeted, signaling the “decision.” To reach the temple, you need to climb over 300 steps, but the view is worth it.
In addition to the temples, you can explore the gardens of the Bhuping Royal Palace, and on the way look into the village of a mountain tribe. There is a market near the village where you can buy authentic crafts or try National dish. An excursion to an orchid farm or an elephant village would be interesting.
The most memorable national park near Chiang Mai is, perhaps, Doi Inthanon National Park. Here you can visit the highest mountain in Thailand, which is 2,565 meters above sea level.
The surrounding area of Chiang Mai is famous for several natural hot springs. Thermal springs are usually located on the territory of a national park. Here you can take a walk, relax or heal by bathing in geysers with mineral water.
Animal lovers will love visiting the Night Safari. Here you can ride through a huge green area, home to zebras, giraffes, hippos, ostriches, monkeys, lions, tigers and many other animals. What will be most memorable is feeding the inhabitants from your hands. It is difficult to walk through the territory of the huge Chiang Mai Zoo in a day. Here, in comfortable conditions Home to a huge number of animals, birds and insects. You can stand next to the enclosure where pandas live, watching such cute animals, for more than an hour. You can also see a huge number of monkeys, tigers and lions, koalas, penguins, giraffes, roe deer and other inhabitants.
Fans of active recreation will appreciate rafting on the Me Teng River and rock climbing on Mount Crazy Horse (a huge monolith 60 m high). There are more than 130 routes.
In Chiang Mai, you can learn to cook Thai food by attending a culinary school. In just a few hours, local cuisine masters will teach you how to cook Tom Kha, Tom Yam, Pad Thai or other Thai delicacies.
Chiang Mai is also called the “Rose of the North” for its flower festival, which takes place on the first weekend of February. The streets of the city are filled with flowers, festive processions and folk festivals take place, and an atmosphere of general fun reigns.
The second interesting festival, Loi Krathong, takes place in November - among the events is the lowering of flower wreaths, festive processions, a float parade and a real belly festival. At night, thousands of paper lanterns fly into the sky.
From Chiang Mai it is convenient to get to other cities in northern Thailand. You can use public transport or go on your own trip with a rented car. Do not forget to be as careful as possible - in addition to the mass of impressions from visiting the fabulous beautiful places Difficulties in moving through mountainous terrain await you. From Chiang Mai you can get to Pai, Mae Hong Son, Chiang Rai and others at least interesting places Thailand.
Kitchen
Inside the city there are many cafes offering Thai, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. Finding restaurants with European cuisine is more difficult, but there are still a lot of such establishments in Chiang Mai. The menu of establishments is usually compiled in Thai and English. The low cost of breakfast, lunch or dinner will pleasantly surprise you.
Transport
You can get to Chiang Mai by plane, train or bus. The airport, located in the city center, is the second largest airport in Bangkok after Suvarnabhumi. Inside the city, and especially in the center, unfortunately, there are almost always traffic jams.
The most convenient way to move around Chiang Mai is by songthaew (a truck equipped to transport passengers), which can be seen literally at every step. The route of the songthaew is determined by the driver depending on the stops required by passengers. In Chiang Mai, you can ride a three-wheeler or even take a rickshaw. Other transportation options are sedan taxis or motorcycle taxis. Also in Chiang Mai you can rent a car, motorbike or bicycle.
Shopping
Chiang Mai is famous for its night market, which runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Here you can buy various souvenirs and decorative items created by local residents at low prices. Northern Thailand and especially Chiang Mai are famous for their interesting handicrafts: clothes and shoes, souvenirs, toys, umbrellas, etc. If you can't make it to the night market, don't despair. You can see and buy interesting and unique handmade souvenirs in small shops located literally at every step in Chiang Mai. Interestingly, here you can watch the process of creating masterpieces of local residents.
Basic moments
Chiang Mai is no longer the “city of golden temples,” as the first Westerners called it. Teak houses with flower beds in their front gardens have become a rarity, replaced by prosaic concrete high-rise buildings and an excellent road network. Among Bangkok's nouveau riche it is considered prestigious to have a second apartment in Chiang Mai. As a result, the landscape is rapidly urbanizing, and the centuries-old traditions of northern Thailand are fading into oblivion. At the same time, the cultural contrasts are almost incredible: a few kilometers from Chiang Mai, where, among other things, a large university is located, the mountain tribes of the Miao, Akha and Lisu live their archaic lives.
Chiang Mai is also the center of arts and crafts in Thailand, from here wood carvings, painted parasols, batik, silk and fine silver items are shipped to tourist centers to the south and further around the world. What is less known is that Chiang Mai is also the capital of the jade industry. The popular stone is mainly imported from Myanmar (Burma), often through smuggling.
Many local companies specialize in serving tourists, giving them the opportunity not only to buy souvenirs, but also to watch local craftsmen at work. To the south of the city, on Chom Thong Road, live the silversmiths. They make dishes and jewelry from pure silver and its alloys. A little further to the east, in the Bankhen quarter, they make lacquerware (bowls, boxes and trays). Black varnish is applied in several layers and polished with ash or chalk. An ornament is scratched into the top layer, which is then filled with gold or paint. There are teak carvers' factories on Wulai and Ratchangsaen streets. From here their products are distributed all over the world. Since logging has been banned in Thailand tropical trees, teak is imported from Myanmar. Chang Loh Road, a bronze foundry street, is also interesting. Here bells are cast, which do not have a tongue inside, but a small tin plate hanging on a cord. This is also where cutlery made of solid bronze comes from, which is sold in almost any store throughout the country. To the north of the city, at the Chang Phuak Gate, there is a village of potters. Clay products are displayed in front of houses to dry and for sale.
Most travel agencies offer a visit to Chiang Mai as part of their Northern Thailand tour program. Organized tours have the big drawback that they leave only one or two days to visit the city. However, Chiang Mai and its beautiful surroundings are worth devoting more time to. There are also many interesting places nearby, such as Lamphun, Mae Hong Son, Chiang Dau, Phrae, Phang, Mae Sai, Chiang Rai and Chom Thong, which can be easily reached from Chiang Mai by car, bus or train. They also offer excursions to the Thai part of the Golden Triangle (Chiang Saen), notorious for opium smuggling.
City `s history
The original inhabitants of these places were the Lava, a people whose descendants can be found in Burma. They were supplanted by the monks, who spread in the VI-VIII centuries. throughout Thailand, and partly mixed with them. The main forces of the Mons were concentrated in Lamphun, which was then called (like the entire kingdom) Haripunchaya. From the 7th century Thai tribes began to infiltrate Mon territories. Soon they also had to deal with the Khmers, whose empire reached maximum sizes in 1000-1250 In the 11th century northern Thailand was under the rule of the Burmese king Anoratha, whose power extended from his capital Pagan all the way to Cambodia. The eastern part of this territory disintegrated after the death of the ruler into many small principalities ruled by the first Thai monarchs.
Meanwhile, other Thai tribes crossed the Mekong into northern Thailand. Among the Thai rulers, the leading role was played by Mengrai, who was born in 1239 in Chiang Saen and is considered the founder of the city of Chiang Rai. In 1281 he succeeded in conquering the Mon kingdom of Haripunchaya and moved his residence to nearby Chiang Mai; then Mengrai sent 90 thousand people to build a wall around the entire city, and in just four years he created a new magnificent capital, from which he ruled until his death in 1317. After the founding of Ayutthaya in 1350, the influence of the Mengrai dynasty began to weaken . When Ayutthaya annexed the kingdom of Sukhothai, it seemed inevitable that Lanna would also be absorbed. However, in fact, Chiang Mai was only conquered in 1556 by the Burmese, whose rule over the Lanna kingdom lasted more than two hundred years. King Taksin, the first ruler of the Bangkok era, predecessor of Chakri and founder of a unified Thai state, liberated Chiang Mai from the Burmese in 1767 and made Chau Kawila, the son of the ruler of Lampang, the prince of Chiang Mai. However, the population, tired of centuries of Burmese attacks, left the city. For almost two decades, Chiang Mai was desolate. From 1796 the city began to be populated, and in 1873 it came under the rule of Siam. The descendants of Prince Chau Kavila live in the city to this day. Chiang Mai played important role in the art of Siam. The so-called “Chiang Mai style” arose here, which flourished between 1300-1550. It absorbed elements of Mon and Burmese art, as well as the influence of neighboring Sukhothai - and therefore in all of Thailand there are no such colorful, vibrant and elegant temples as in Chiang Mai.
Every evening several city streets turn into a huge market. Countless stalls sell local handicrafts, including those of the hill tribes.
Chiang Mai has many travel agencies offering day or multi-day treks in northern Thailand. In most cases, these are reputable companies, but there are also unpleasant exceptions when they try by all means to rip off more money from tourists. You should also be wary of agencies offering visits to hill tribes on the border with Myanmar. Initially, the purpose of such excursions was to draw attention to the problems of the Miao, Lisu, Akha, Karen, etc. peoples, but this idea has been so distorted that the mountaineers are now often not very happy with guests. In small villages you may encounter overt aggression, and in any case they will demand money from you for photography and offer you handicrafts at incredibly inflated prices.
How to get there
- By car:
from Bangkok along national highway No. 1/32 to Chainat, along No. 1 to Lam Pang, then along No. 11 (about 750 km). - By bus:
from Bangkok from the Northern Bus Station on air-conditioned buses. Travel time is about 12 hours. - By train:
from Hualampong Station in Bangkok (751 km). Night trains leaving Bangkok in the evening and arriving in Chiang Mai in the morning have comfortable sleeping compartments. - By plane:
There are several flights a day from Bangkok. Travel time is about 1 hour.
What to see
There are about two hundred temples in Chiang Mai, almost all of which are of interest from the point of view of art history. However, we will have to limit ourselves to only the most significant and beautiful temple ensembles, which play a particularly important role in the religious life and cultural history of the northern Thai metropolis.
The center of modern Chiang Mai lies east of the city walls, near the Ping River. Of the five city gates: Thapae in the east, Suandok (Flower Garden) in the west, Chang Phuak ( White elephant) in the north, Chiang Mai in the south and Xuanprung in the southwest - some have now been restored.
The main attractions of the city are Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Sing, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phrahat Doi Suthep, you can learn more about them in the section Attractions of Chiang Mai.
Other attractions
Wat Prachau Mengrai
Wat Prachau Mengrai, founded in 1288, stands on Rat-chamankha Road opposite Wat Chedi Luang. The small temple houses a 4.5 m tall Buddha figure, made in 1920, depicting the city's founder, King Mengrai. In the vihan, it is worth paying attention to the figure of Buddha from Chiang Saen and a beautiful music stand for books.
Wat Chetawan, Wat Mahawan
In the Chetavan Temple, located in front of the eastern gate of the city, three oddly shaped chedis, gleaming in the sun with red and gold tiles, are especially interesting. Two of them are decorated with figures of fabulous animals from Indian mythology. The wood carvings decorating the vihan are also good. Opposite on Tha Phae Road is Wat Mahawan with a very beautiful Burmese style chedi with a gilded spire. At the four corners of the fence there are monumental sculptures of lions. The vihan and the small chapel are richly carved, and the doors are covered with reliefs depicting scenes from the life of Buddha.
Wat Saeng Fang
Nearby on Tha Phae Road is the less visible entrance to Wat Saeng Phang. A narrow alley, flanked by two massive snakes, leads to a picturesque grounds with a well-kept garden, a beautiful Burmese-style chedi and a wihan with gilded carvings on the facade.
Wat Pha Pong
A carved gate leads to the luxurious Wat Pha Pong (the intersection of Suthep Road and Thipanet Road). There are several chedis around the beautiful pavilion, and stairs lead up to the chapel inside. The facade of the rectangular building with rounded arched windows and pilasters indicates Chinese or Burmese influence. Inside the three-part temple you can see Buddha statues and wall paintings.
Chedi Chang Phuak
To the north of the city limits (at the end of Rattanakosin Road, 300 m from the Chang Phuak bus station) there are the ruins of the Chang Phuak chedi and Kutau wat with a unique chedi (1613): on a square stepped plinth stands the upper part, consisting of nested, decreasing balls (probably symbolizing alms bowls). The balls have niches, and some are decorated with geometric patterns made of colorful tiles. An elegant gilded spire crowns this unusual stupa, which supposedly houses the ashes of the Burmese prince Tharawadi. On the pediment there are remains of ancient carvings. The bot was built in the 20th century.
Wat Suandok
To the west of the city (Suthep Road) is the famous Wat Suandok ("suandok" means flower garden). Its construction is shrouded in legends and is closely related to the construction of Wat Doi Suthep. The snow-white, bell-shaped Ceylon-style chedi houses half of the pea-sized miraculous relic. A monk named Sumana found it in a box hidden in a whole series of nested silver and coral caskets, which were in turn placed in a bronze case. Through complex routes, the relic reached Chiang Mai to King Kin (1355-1385), who ordered a chedi to be built for it. In 1383, the relic miraculously split into two halves, but each of them grew to the original size of the whole. For the second half of the relic, Wat Doi Suthep was built. The ashes of members of the royal family are kept in shining white chedis of various shapes standing in the courtyard. In the boat of Suandok Temple there is a very beautiful 6 m tall Buddha statue in the Chiang Mai style (circa 1550). Wihan, in the form of an open hall, is the largest religious meeting space in Thailand; built in 1932. The columns and ceilings are richly ornamented, in the depths there are two Buddha statues standing back to back; His images can also be seen on several murals. In addition, in the vihan there is a casket in the shape of a palace, where the ashes of the monk Phra Si Vichai are kept, at whose insistence this building was erected.
Wat Umong
Not far from here, if you follow Suthep Road to the west, in a park rather reminiscent of a forest, stands Wat Umong, built by King Mengrai for a revered monk. King Kina later added vaulted cellars for another monk, where he could meditate without interference. There are still remains of frescoes on the walls. The monastery, belonging to the strict Ceylonese school of Buddhism, serves as a shelter for hermit monks. They can be recognized by their darker robes. Part of the monastery complex serves as a meeting place for people of all nationalities interested in Buddhism. The chedi from the time the monastery was founded has almost collapsed; other buildings (the Pali school, living quarters for the monks and the library) were built relatively recently.
Outskirts of Chiang Mai (outside Old City)
Wat Chet-Yot
Wat Chet Yot, located on the northern Super Highway, is also called the Photharam Matha Vihan. Founded in 1454 by King Tilokarat, for a century it remained the most significant and luxurious temple complex of the Lanna kingdom. Later, the magnificent sanctuary was almost swallowed up by the jungle; only in the 1950s. it was decided to restore it. The successors of King Tilokarat constantly expanded and supplemented wat, so that it is difficult to attribute it to any one style. The Chedi with seven towers, completed in 1455, is an imitation Indian temple Maha-Bodhi, where, according to legend, Buddha achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. In the high central tower there is a plaster figure of Buddha, and on the lower floor there is a prayer room. The well-preserved stucco on the walls is extremely skillfully executed. The ashes of King Tilokarat rest in a small rectangular stupa with rich stucco decoration, built by the king's grandson in 1486.
Chiang Mai National Museum
The Chiang Mai National Museum, opened in 1972 along the northern Super Highway, houses many excellent sculptures from all eras and styles, as well as terracottas from Haripunchayi. Also worthy of mention is the footprint of Buddha with exquisite mother-of-pearl inlay. On the second floor of the museum, tools of the mountain tribes are exhibited.
Working hours:Wed.-Sun.
9.00-12.00, 13.00-14.00.
Paid entrance.
University
Chiang Mai University, opened in 1965 (exiting the city in a northwest direction along the road to Doi Suthep Wat), also houses the Museum of the Ethnographic Research Center (Tribal Research Center), which studies the life of mountain tribes in order to preserve their way of life and culture. . Here you can purchase authentic highlander handicrafts.
Working hours:daily
9.00-17.00.
Botanical Garden and Zoo
Passing the university, you find yourself in the Botanical Garden, full of exotic plants and orchids. Next door is the largest zoo in Thailand, where they keep mainly animals from Southeast Asia, as well as rare birds and butterflies.
Working hours:daily
9.00-17.00.
Paid entrance.
Wat Buakkhrok Luang
From San Kamphaeng Road, lined with shops of Ching Mai manufactures, you can get to one of the most beautiful, although not so famous, temples. The remarkable wihan Luang wata Buak Khrok Luang was built from teak wood at the end of the 13th century. in the style of the Lanna kingdom. The Buddha statue inside the vihan dates back to the Chiang Saen era; the interior space is divided into three parts by five rows of teak columns. The antique paintings on the walls and carved doors are especially good. To the left of the vihan is a red bot. Until 1988, a copy of this frame existed in Phayao, but was destroyed by a storm.
Near the temple there is the entrance to the new luxury hotel “Dhara Dhevi” of the Oriental-Mandarin chain, surrounded by almost untouched nature.
Cultural Center "Old Chiang Mai"
The Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center is not the historical core of the city, but the creation of a clever entrepreneur who built a village on Highway 108 south of the city, where representatives of various hill tribes (Karep, Lisu, Akha, Yao) live in their traditional huts , go to the national national clothes and work using familiar tools. In the shops you can buy their handicrafts, such as jewelry or fabrics. In the evenings, the restaurant hosts so-called Khantoke dinners: Northern Thai cuisine is served, and the mountaineers perform their traditional dances. Many travel agencies include the Old Chiang Mai cultural center in their excursion programs.
Viangkumkam
About 5 km south of the Old Town in the 1990s. Archaeologists found the ruins of the Viangkumkam settlement. It is believed to have been founded 700 years ago by King Mengrai. Since the finds were very scarce, they did not organize a special exhibition here; Interesting exhibits are on display at the Chiang Mai National Museum.
Neighborhoods of Chiang Mai
Phuping Summer Royal Palace
If you go up the mountain from Wat Doi Suthep even higher, you soon find yourself in front of the summer royal palace Phuping. Visiting it is possible only if the royal family is not there at the moment, and only in decent clothing. The Bangkok-era palace is surrounded by a flowering garden.
Doiphu National Park
An approximately three-hour walk through stunning scenery will lead you to the top of Mount Puy, from where you can enjoy magnificent views of densely jungle-covered mountains and gorges. On the way you come across a village of the Miao tribe, which, however, due to its popularity among tourists, has turned into a commercial attraction. Still bright National costumes and the finely crafted silver jewelry is very beautiful indeed.
Launched in 2006, the Chiang Mai Night Safari project is spread over 130 hectares of forested mountains, fifteen natural springs and five artificial lakes on the periphery of Doi Suthep Phi National Park. The distance from Chiang Mai to the park is 10 km, from the city it’s about half an hour’s drive. Zebras live in this area wild bulls and giraffes brought from Africa. A hippopotamus named Kiboko was brought from Frankfurt am Main, and the remaining one thousand six hundred animals of one hundred and fifty species were brought here from different continents to give the visitor an idea of the diversity of the world's fauna. Night Safari is divided into three parts. "Jaguar Trail" is reserved for small mammals, visitors can come here day and night. Titled “Predator Prowl” and “Savannah Safari,” the sections feature predators and savannah creatures. These two parts of the area are only open at night; animal lovers can ride along them in a special trailer.
Bosang Village
The village of Bosang, located 8 km east of Chiang Mai, is also worth a visit. Almost all its inhabitants are engaged in stretching silk or shiny paper obtained from mulberry bark onto bamboo frames. The umbrella is first varnished, and then the varnish is painted with flowers, landscapes or ornaments. Even children here can make intricate patterns.
Sankamphaeng
In the 15th century Sankamphaeng was one of the most important ceramic production centers in Thailand. The ruins of potters' street can today be found east of the modern city.
Chiang Mai became the heir of Sankamphaeng, but the former flourishing of porcelain art remains unattainable to this day. Now Sankamphaeng is known more for its handmade cotton and silk fabrics. Many manufactories hold small exhibitions where they show how silk is made. In Sankhamphaeng, Wat Simon is also interesting in a characteristic Burmese style. The Vihan is divided into three parts by red teak pillars with gold decorations and a large collection of elaborately crafted religious utensils can be seen here.
On weekends, locals like to go to Nongwua Park, located 17 km east of Chiang Mai, created on the site of a former swamp. There is a pond overgrown with lotus flowers. Numerous restaurants will keep you from getting hungry.
"Elephant School" in Marim
At the “elephant school” near Marim you can watch working elephants being trained. Merim is located 20 km north of Chiang Mai. From the village to the “elephant school” it is only 7 km. There are daily performances for visitors here, and excursions can be booked at any travel agency in Chiang Mai. Since the Thai government, in December 1988, wanting to prevent further destruction environment, has completely banned the cutting down of tropical trees, elephants are trained in Marim - as well as in several other “elephant schools” in Thailand - a profession no longer needed by anyone. Several hundred “unemployed” elephants are kept here, for the feeding of which the state pays subsidies. However, the most important source of income is, of course, tourism; guests are shown the training and habits of huge animals that have always played an important role in the history of Thailand.
If you are not specifically trying to see elephants doing such an unusual activity for their breed as playing football, it is better to come to the “elephant school” in the afternoon. In the first half of the day, countless tourist buses with hundreds of visitors flock here. When everyone has left, you can calmly explore the vast territory on your own.
Buffalo Training Center
In Thailand for needs Agriculture They train not only elephants, but also buffaloes. This “school” is located 18 km north of Chiang Mai near the village of Merim. They also give performances demonstrating achievements in buffalo training. In addition, there is the opportunity to ride a buffalo and watch buffalo races.
Opening hours: daily. 8.00-17.30.Performances: daily 9.00, 15.00 and 16.30.
Paid entrance.
Doing Thanon National Park
From Marim, one-day and multi-day excursions are offered to Doi Inthanon National Park, located 80 km to the southwest, and transport is not only a variety of wheeled vehicles, but also elephants. Doi Inthanon, with its wild gorges, picturesque waterfalls and impassable jungle, is one of the most beautiful natural parks in Thailand.
Huay Tuang Tau
Another popular recreation spot among nearby residents is the Huay Tung Tau Reservoir, about 40 km north of the city. Here you can go boating or windsurfing.
Landscapes around Chiang Dau
If you drive north from Chiang Mai along Highway No. 107 among the most beautiful, densely forested mountains, then after driving 72 km you will come to the small market village of Chiang Dau. It lies above the gorge of the Ping River on the green slopes of the Chiang Dau ridge, the limestone crenellations of which reach a height of 2186 m. Nearby is the Development Center organized by the Thai government, where they scientifically study the problems of cultivating tea and coffee and teach the population about it. The goal of the project is to offer local residents an alternative to opium poppy cultivation, which has been practiced here for centuries. Agricultural specialists are sent to Miao, Lisu and Karen villages to... help the mountain people in rice growing, farming and cattle breeding.
From the northern exit of Chiangdau it is about 6 km to the sacred cave of Chiangdau, 14 km deep. The Buddha statues placed inside are illuminated by a mysterious light, the source of which is the sun penetrating through cracks in the stone. The largest statue is made of white marble. Not far from the entrance is a large white chedi with many turrets, and next to it is a pond fed by a spring with sacred fish.
The city and province of Chiang Mai, located in the north of Thailand, attracts many tourists. Very often the city itself is called cultural capital countries. And the interest of vacationers is due to the fact that in Chiang Mai (Thailand), there is an incredible number of various attractions.
Climate and weather
Like throughout the kingdom, Chiang Mai (Thailand) has three seasons:
- Moderate lasts from November to the end of February. The heat gradually subsides at this time, but the nights are still warm. It is during this period that it is recommended to relax here.
- The hot period lasts from March to the end of June. Stable heat sets in, the thermometer reaches forty degrees. Such weather contribute to the appearance of fires in the jungle, which is why the city is periodically surrounded by a shroud of smoke. You should not come to Chiang Mai during this period.
- The rainy season lasts from the beginning of July to the end of October. Cold monsoons bring frequent showers and coolness from India. It is at this time that it is good to visit the sights of the cultural capital.
Despite the rather hot climate, nature in Chiang Mai (Thailand) delights with its beauty and greenery throughout the year. The city is located between mountain ranges and green hills, and the Ping River flows nearby.
A little about the city...
Chiang Mai - capital northern city is about 170 thousand people. At the same time, Chiang Mai ranks fifth in the ranking of the largest cities in the country. The city is three times older than Bangkok. It is not for nothing that it is also called the cultural capital of the country.
It is worth noting that Chiang Mai (Thailand), on the one hand, is of great interest to vacationers, and on the other, many tourists bypass it, since there are absolutely no beaches in the city. But here there is a jungle where exciting trips are organized.
Chiang Mai (Thailand): how to get there from Moscow?
Every tourist planning his vacation is concerned with the question of what transport to use to make the trip comfortable and least tiring. Since air connections with Thailand are quite well established, it will not be difficult to get to Chiang Mai (Thailand). How to get to the resort? Of course, the easiest way is by plane. And upon arrival at the airport you will need a taxi. You can use the services of cars belonging to the airport. The cost of their services is approximately 120 baht (1 baht = 1.8 rubles). Local taxi drivers have slightly higher prices.
If you decide to vacation in another city, you can get to the city of Chiang Mai (Thailand) by bus. This type of transport is considered the cheapest in the country. Experienced tourists recommend giving preference to tourist buses rather than regular buses. It is worth noting that all transport in Thailand is divided into three classes: 1, 2 and Vip. The level of travel comfort depends on the class of transport you choose.
Speaking about how to get to Chiang Mai (Thailand), it is worth mentioning railway. To be fair, it is worth mentioning that railway transport The country is very well developed. The only direct train to the city is via Bangkok. If you are traveling from any other city, you will have to change trains. As for the fare, it directly depends on the class of the carriage. The average fare can range from 270-1450 baht.
Local Attractions
For those who come to Chiang Mai (Thailand), sightseeing is the main purpose of visiting the city. It will be interesting to visit both beginners and experienced travelers. Here you can see natural attractions, ancient temples, wild tribes living in the jungle, and architectural structures. You can see all this by hiring a guide, but also independent travel will allow you to learn a lot of new things.
Tourists are always eager to visit the ancient Doi Suthep Temple, built in 1383, during the era when the province was still part of the Lanna kingdom. The temple is located some distance from the city, but getting to it is not difficult. Doi Suthep is worthy of the attention of tourists; it is considered the hallmark of Chiang Mai.
A must-see for travelers is the National Museum, which is rightfully the main museum of the northern region. It contains everything cultural heritage countries. After a major reconstruction of the institution in 1996, the museum’s exposition was enriched with the achievements of modern technologies.
Not only tourists, but also Thais themselves come to Chiang Mai to visit the zoo. They live here giant pandas, which delight children with offspring. The zoo is very young, it was founded only in 1995. In addition to animals, here you can see a large aquarium, built in the form of a tunnel, which is home to eight thousand freshwater and marine inhabitants.
Tourists should also visit the Chiang Man Temple, founded back in 1296. The complex is considered the oldest in the entire city. Relics are kept here: a statue of Buddha, which supposedly causes rain and ancient images of the Enlightened One.
With children, you should definitely visit the stunning museum of natural wonders and insects. The private museum was founded by an entomologist; its exhibition includes unusual natural objects, a collection of insects and minerals.
Vacationers who appreciate handmade items should definitely visit Sankampeng, a suburb of Chiang Mai. Here you can not only purchase any handicraft products, but also watch the craftsmen at work with your own eyes.
Night market
A holiday in Chiang Mai (Thailand) simply cannot be complete without visiting the night market, which is classified as a local attraction. It would be more correct to say that there is more than one similar night market in the city. But the only one of real interest is the one located by the river. It sells any goods, but vacationers are attracted by all kinds of products from local artisans. According to tourists, the night market is the best place in Thailand to buy souvenirs.
Where to live in the city?
If you decide to travel to Thailand, Chiang Mai is a fairly budget-friendly place to stay. It is quite possible to stay in the city for several days to get the opportunity to quietly see all the sights. The province offers very cheap housing. Moreover, it is worth noting that the choice of accommodation options is simply amazing. There are a large number of townhouses, houses, rooms and apartments for rent in the suburbs and in the city itself. And, of course, don’t forget about city hotels, the stay in which depends on their star rating.
For example, a budget room in a guesthouse can be rented for 250-500 baht per day. On average, rent for a month will cost about 5,000-7,000 baht. You can rent an apartment for 4000-7000 baht, but you will have to pay separately for water and electricity. Hotel rooms cost 5,000-25,000 baht per week, depending on the level of the hotel.
Here are a few interesting facts about Chiang Mai:
- Airplanes often fly over the city, this is due to the fact that the airport is located right in the city.
- There are a lot of international couples hanging out here, especially young people.
- Foreigners are allowed into almost all churches in the city for free. And just for the entrance to Wat Phra Singh you need to pay only 20 baht, this amount is purely symbolic. Entrance fees to Bangkok temples range from 50 to 500 baht, which is much more expensive.
- The streets of the city are much cleaner than in Bangkok.
- In Chiang Mai you will not find products with symbols of other cities on sale. Here they sell goods only with the logos of their hometown.
- In Chiang Mai, there is a massage parlor at almost every corner. The cost of one session is 150 baht.
- The city has bicycle paths, unlike other places in Thailand. For an Asian country, the presence of such tracks is very rare.
- There are an incredible number of bike rental shops here. Rental cost is about 50 baht per day.
- The weather in the province is cooler than in Phuket or Bangkok. IN winter time in the mornings and evenings the temperature can drop to +15 degrees.
- In Chiang Mai the streets are much fewer dogs than in other Thai cities.
- There are very few Russian tourists in the city, so it is extremely rare to hear your native language.
- There are absolutely no motorcycle taxis here.
- The city has sidewalks for pedestrians, which is rare in Thailand.
For those planning a trip to Chiang Mai, experienced tourists give some recommendations:
- If the trip falls in winter, then it is worth taking a thin sweater and a light jacket with you, since at this time it can be quite cool in the province.
- When going to the zoo, take nuts and fruits with you, you will definitely need them there.
- When renting a taxi, be sure to pay attention to whether it has a meter. If there is none, then look for another car, otherwise they will charge you money not for travel, but for time, even if you are stuck in traffic the whole time.
- When going somewhere, always leave early, as local traffic jams may prevent you from getting to your destination on time.
- When visiting temples, it is worth remembering that you cannot enter them with bare shoulders and legs.
- Precious jewelry can only be purchased in large stores.
- When shopping, be sure to bargain.
- The sale of spirits in Thailand is limited in time.
Nutrition
Local cuisine differs from other regions of the country because it is different great variety. The proximity of Laos and China has an effect. There is less seafood in Chiang Mai, but the prices are more reasonable here. The province is famous for its large plantations of small pineapples and strawberries, which are completely unheard of in the south. Local markets sell a lot of strawberry-based sweets and confitures.
The traditional dish of the north is well-seasoned curries and fried in coconut milk. Vegetarian cuisine is highly developed in Chiang Mai, so there are many establishments in the city with a wide range of such dishes. The budget food industry is well established here. In local buffets you can eat a hearty meal at minimal financial cost.
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