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Experiencing the merging of the past into the present in Chiang Mai where locals are proud of the city's 700-year history. Its rich traditional heritage and unique culture is a perfect foundation for the development of the city. Chiang Mai is one of the few places in Thailand where it is possible to find in the heart of the city centuries-old chedis and temples next to modern convenience stores and boutique hotels. The original city layout still exists as a neat square surrounded by a moat with vestiges of the fortified wall and its four main gates offering prime access to the old town.
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For years, tourists have mistaken Chiang Mai as the northern junction and the base from which they can explore other provinces. The phrase "a day in Chiang Mai is enough to see things around" was common. Today, tourists are surprised by the fact that there is always something new to discover Chiang Mai. Intriguing diversity among ethnic tribes coupled with breathtaking scenery makes Chiang Mai one of Asia's most attractive tourist destinations. Two weeks in Chiang Mai may not be long enough for serious travelers.
Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources of mountains (dois), waterfalls, and other nature-based tourist attractions. At the same time, Chiang Mai residents are warm, gracious and congenial providing authentic |
hospitality making visits memorable and meaningful. Moreover, visitors from all walks of life can collect handicrafts of silk, silver and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. Chiang Mai is a place where both backpackers and luxury tourists can enjoy themselves to the fullest.
The best way to appreciate the natural charms of the North is by joining a jungle tour. The means of travel are extraordinarily varied on foot, by jeep, by elephant back or by river rafting--while overnight stops are made at hilltribe villages where one gains a rare insight into tribal life.
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Jungle tours are an established option in the North and the local TAT office provides a list of specialist travel companies. Trips can last from one day to one week, and each group is accompanied by an experienced guide.
For those with little time a splendid way of experiencing the jungle scenery is to take the regular long-tail boat which plies the Kok River between Tha Thon (due north of Chiang Mai) to Chiang Rai. The journey of just a few hours is a memorable experience. The same trip can he covered more leisurely by raft, stopping at hilltribe villages along the way. |
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About Chiang Mai
Situated 700 kilometers from the capital, Bangkok, Chiang Mai sits in the northern mountainous region where the climate is cooler than the southern regions, with the exception of the months of March, April and May.
Cool Season : (late October to end of February). average temperature 21C and much cooler at night. The coldest months are December and January.
Hot Season : (early March to end of May) Average temperature 29.9C. The hottest month is April.
Rainy Season : (early June to end of October). Average temperature 25.5C. The wettest month is September.
Close by is Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Inthanon (2,565 meters) which is the last peak of the Himalayan range. To the south only 27 kilometers is the city of Lamphun, the oldest in Thailand, built more than 1,200 years ago. |
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