Chiang Mai
is the largest city in northern Thailand. It is the capital of Chiang Mai Province and was a former capital of the kingdom of Lan Na (1296–1768). It is 700 km (435 mi) north of Bangkok near the highest mountains in the country. The city sits along the Ping River, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya River.
Many travellers to South East Asia would put a trip to Chiang Mai high on their list of destinations to visit. This would be a very wise choice. What an amazing city to visit, and for many a better choice than Bangkok. Try to stay in the old city section. I would say five days would be a minimum visit to Chiang Mai
There is so much going on in the city and surrounding area - here are some places I visited.
Food Lovers - This is it….
I have not yet completed my first trip to Southeast Asia, but I’m going to put this thought forward - the food in Thailand and in particular Chiang Mai is “The Best”. The use of spices and combination of ingredients - fantastic. Google best restaurants in Chiang Mai or go to Trip Advisor and do a restaurant search. The best one we found (Nun’s) was located in a small alleyway with only five tables. Always a wait, but worth it. The Koa soi (a local dish not to be missed) was amazing.
This town should definitely be on a foodies itinerary.
Elephant Sanctuary
Chiang Mai has some very good Elephant Sanctuaries to visit. In the past, elephants were put on display to entertain tourists. Now the focus is to promote conservation and protection of elephants. Tours follow a pattern that lets you get a very hands on feel for a small group of elephants. As you arrive you are given clothing to change into, because you may well get dirty, especially at the elephant bath time.
It all starts with feeding the elephants, an activity they seem to enjoy the most.
The goal of the Elephant Sanctuary is to have the participants experience an elephant’s typical day - up close and personal. You were encouraged to touch and make a connection with the elephants. They each had a personal trainer who was close at hand. Bath time got a little crazy. After it all, you will have a better appreciation for this incredible animal.
Cooking School
Another great activity in Chiang Mai is to sign up for a cooking school. This is an all day activity, as you are picked up early to get your ingredients from a local market. Our school was located on a farm in the countryside. This allowed them to grow many of the ingredients themselves.
We made our own curry paste, red curry, tom yum soup, pad thai and a banana dessert in coconut milk. Totally stuffed by the end of the class. And then, a well documented recipe book - your gift at the end. A great outing.
Doi Inthanon
is the highest mountain in Thailand. You can take a tour that gets you close and you can walk to the top. Not a great view, but the famous King and Queen Pagodas are just down the road - they are worth the trek up the mountain. The king's temple is a deep bronze, while the queen's is a beautiful lavender stone. Intricate stone carvings and statues of Buddha filled the prayer rooms under each pagoda. Great views and amazing gardens. This excursion was well worth it.