Introduction to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, popularly known as ‘The Rose of the North’, is located 700km from Bangkok. It is a principal city in Northern Thailand, located along banks of fertile Ping River. This enchanting city was a capital city of Lanna Kingdom, and was founded in 1296 by King Mengrai. Chiang Mai has had its own long and unique, independent history and cultures, and still maintaining own dialeget, customs and cuisine till today.

 

Sight of attractions in Chiang Mai

Wat Phra Singh

This stunning temple has history which can be dated back to year 1345. It enshrines the revered Phra Phutthasihing Buddha image, which is the cultural landmark image during the Songkran Thai New Year Festival. There is also a Purple Buddha image housed in the temple. Other interesting points in the wat is Lai Kham chapel which is decorated in exquisite northern style woodcarvings, chedi built in 14th century that keep King Kam Fu remains and Bodhi tree that were sent from India.

Wat Suan Dok

The attractive sights is the white Chedis that were built in 14th century that keep ashes of former Chiang Mai royal members. This wat also houses a 500 year old bronze Buddha image, of which is one of Thailand’s largest metal image.’

Wat Chiang Man

This is the oldest Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, which is believed to build in year 1296. While the new city of Chiang Mai was under construction, the ruler of Chiang Mai, King Mengrai resides here. Notable sights in Wat Chiang Man is the Chedi supported by rows of elephant buttressess, chapel with ancient Buddha image and a crystal statue, Phra Sila Khao which is believe to have the power to bring rain.

Doi Pui Tribal Village

This is the hill tribes village occupied by the Hmong. It is the easiest accessible hill tribes and popular tourist attractions in Chiang Mai, thus has lost some of its authenticity. Nonetheless, it still offers an insight to the hill tribes living, cultures and practices. Traditional Hmong costumes, arts and handicrafts, Hmong architectures can be seen at the village.

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

At 3,520 feet above sea level, this is Chiang Mai’s most visible and famous landmark. An exhilarating view of the city as well the countryside can be seen from the temple. The 290 flights of stairs will lead to the main structure, a golden Chedi that contains Buddha’s relics.

Wat Ku Tao

An unique looking Chedi which is famous for its unsual shape like a watermelon. The chedi is decorated in colorful porceliain chips.

Wat Chet Yot

The design of Wat Chey Yot is greatly influenced by temple Bodhgaya in India. Temple Bodhgaya is where Buddha achieved his enlightenment. This wat is designed in square chedi with seven spires.

Wat Chedi Luang

The largest Chedi in Chiang Mai, standing at 98m tall and 54m wide. It was built in 1481 but completed in 1545.

Wiang Kum Kam

This is an ancient city built and reside by King Mengrai prior Chiang Mai was found. Today, ruins and remains  of about 20 temples and other buildings can be seen there.

Phu Ping Palace

Further up from Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, it is the Royal Winter Palace, Phu Ping Palace built in 1961. The exquisite garden landscape is open to public except during occupancy by the Royal family.

 

Explore more on Chiang Mai Nature Attractions here

 

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