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Chiang Mai (เชี�ยงใหม่) is the hub of Northern Thailand. With a population of over 170,000 in the city
proper (but more than 1 million in the metropolitan area), it is Thailand's fifth-largest city. Located on a
plain at an elevation of 316 m, surrounded by mountains and lush countryside, it is much greener and
quieter than the capital, and has a cosmopolitan air and a significant expat population, factors which
have led many from Bangkok to settle permanently in this "Rose of the North".
[edit]Understand
Founded in 1296 AD, Chiang Mai is a culturally and historically interesting city, at one time the capital
of the ancient Lanna kingdom. Located among the rolling foothills of the Himalayan Mountains 700 km
north of Bangkok, it could only be reached by an arduous river journey or an elephant back trip until
the 1920s. This isolation helped preserve Chiang Mai's distinctive charm intact to this day.
Chiang Mai's historical centre is the walled city (City is chiang in the northern Thai dialect while 'mai'
is new, hence Chiang Mai - "New City"). Sections of the wall dating to their restoration a few decades
ago remain at the gates and corners, but of the rest only the moat remains.
Inside Chiang Mai's remaining city walls are more than 30 temples dating back to the founding of the
principality, in a combination of Burmese, Sri Lankan and Lanna Thai styles, decorated with beautiful
wood carvings, Naga staircases, leonine and angelic guardians, gilded umbrellas and pagodas laced
with gold filigree. The most famous is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, which overlooks the city from a
mountainside 13 km away.
Modern-day Chiang Mai has expanded in all directions, but particularly to the east towards the Ping
River (Mae Nam Ping), where Thanon Chang Klan, the famous Night Bazaar and the bulk of Chiang
Mai's hotels and guesthouses are located.Loi Kroh Rd is the center of the city's nightlife . The locals
say you've not experienced Chiang Mai until you've seen the view from Doi Suthep, eaten a bowl of
kao soi, and purchased an umbrella from Bo Sang. Of course this is touristic nonsense, but the Kao
Soi, Bo Sang umbrellas and Doi Suthep are important cultural icons for Chiang Mai
residents. Ratchadamneon Rd hosts the main Sunday night walking street market from Thapae Gate
to the popular Wat Phra Singh.
[edit]Climate
Chiangmai's northern location and moderate elevation results in the city having a more temperate
climate than that of the south.
As with the rest of Thailand there are three regarded seasons.
A cool season from November to February.
A hot season from March to June
A wet season from July to October
ClimateJa
n
Fe
b
Ma
r
Ap
r
Ma
y
Ju
nJul
Au
g
Se
p
Oc
t
No
v
De
c
Daily highs (°C) 30 32 35 36 34 32 32 31 31 31 30 28
Nightly lows (°C) 14 15 18 22 23 24 24 23 23 22 19 15
Precipitation (m
m)7 5 13 50 158
13
2
16
1236
22
8
12
253 20
Check Chiang Mai's 7 day forecast at TMD.go.th
[edit]Get in
International departure hall at Chiang Mai Airport
[edit]By plane
Chiang Mai International Airport [1] (CNX) handles both domestic and regional international flights.
The route from Bangkok is one of the busiest in the country (Thai Airways flies daily almost every
hour, with additional flights in the peak tourist season). Other airlines operating direct services from/to
Chiang Mai include:
[edit]Domestic
Air Asia [2] - a well-known Asian low-cost airline, flies from/to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi airport)
and Phuket. Usually it's a cheapest choice if you book at least a week before, with price tag (as of
July 2009) starting from 1400 baht (plus several fees for luggage, food, seat-reservation) from
Bangkok and 2000-2500 baht from KL/Phuket; promotional fares may be even cheaper. Their
prices can be significantly higher, however, if you book just a few days before, or want a specific
day/flight.
In 2011, they added flights to Hat Yai and Ubon Ratchathani several times per week.
Bangkok Airways [3] - to Ko Samui (flights from Ko Samui are indirect),
from/toBangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and Sukhothai;. Surprisingly, in many cases Bangkok Airways
has the cheapest fares, cheaper than the budget-Airlines, particularly if you book just one day or a
few days ahead.
Nok Air [4] - Thai (semi-)low-cost carrier, flies from/to Bangkok (Don Mueang airport, from 1400
baht and up) and Mae Hong Son. Starting from 17 January 2010, they also fly from/to Udon
Thani, ticket price is 2400 baht. The latter, while still 4 times more expensive than bus, is more
than twice cheaper than Lao Airlines' flight to Vientiane, which is easily accessible from Udon
Thani. Nok Air only allows bookings of up to 3 months in advance.
One-Two-Go [5] (low-cost division of Orient Thai Airlines [6] ) files from/to Bangkok (Don
Mueang). They fly 23-26 years old McDonnell Douglas MD-83 jets, but if you are not afraid - it's
often a cheapest (1450-1750 baht) option if you book during the last days before flight. One-Two-
Go also only allows bookings of up to 3 months in advance. Note: This airline no longer exists,
they became solely Orient Thai Airlines due to the aftermath of the 2007 Phuket plane crash
which killed 90 people.
SGA [7] - Recently renamed 'Nok Mini'. - from/to Chiang Rai (twice daily), Mae Hong Son (once
daily), Nan (Daily) and Pai (once daily). Their tickets are booked via Nok Air website.
[edit]International
Air Asia flies from/to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Singapore.
China Airlines [8] - from/to Taipei, Taiwan
China Eastern Airlines [9] from/to Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
Korean Airlines [10] - Four flights weekly from Seoul/Incheon
Lao Airlines [11] - from/to Luang Prabang in (Laos), from there the flight continues onward
to Vientiane
Silk Air [12] - from/to Singapore
Thai Airways [13] - from/to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi airport only, from 2500 baht and up, but
sometimes there are promo fares as low as 1500) and Mae Hong Son; in addition, flights from
and/or to Phuket & possibly Nan may also be available seasonally.
The airport is some 3 km south-west of the city centre, only 10-15 minutes away by car. Legal airport
taxis charge a flat 120 baht for up to 5 passengers anywhere in the city; if you take a metered taxi, the
fee will start from 40 baht + a 50 baht service fee from the Meter Taxi counter. The taxis operate from
the exit at the north end of the terminal - after baggage claim and/or customs, walk into the reception
hall and turn left. Alternatively, take bus #4 to the city center for 15 baht, or charter a tuk-tuk or
songthaew for 50-60 baht per person. Most hotels and some upmarket guesthouses offer cheap or
free pick-up/drop-off services.
[edit]By bus
[edit]From Bangkok
A variety of daily buses leave frequently from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Moh Chit), offering
varying choices of price, comfort and speed.
Rattling government buses make frequent stops at every minor township. The journey takes
around 12hrs and costs 200 baht.
Non-stop 24/32-seaters and 1st class buses provide larger seats and snacks; making the long trip
more comfortable. They manage the trip around 9 hours and cost around 500 baht. Be
cautious about the so-called "VIP" buses touted on Khao San Rd; they may be cheaper, but you
may end up crammed into a 2nd class bus or worse.
At Arcade bus station, where you'll arrive, public songthaews stop near the bus station building exit -
look for local people getting into those, and ask the driver if he goes to your destination (if songthaew
is empty, don't forget to confirm the price). Shared trip to Tha Phae Gate (edge of the old town)
should cost 20 baht, though you may have to wait for a driver who agrees. Virtually all songthaews will
pass Warorot market (city centre,just after crossing the river), from where it's just 1 km walk to
Thapae gate, or numerous (see "Get around" section) songthaews to other areas.
Alternatively, you can charter the whole songthaew or take a tuk-tuk. The drivers will approach you
once you've arrived and will ask as much as 80-100 baht to the city center/Thapae gate, showing you
the bogus price list with "fixed" prices. Bargain, it's just 5-6 km, so the fair price for tuk-tuk there is 50
baht, and is not more than 100 even to the opposite side of the city. It may be difficult to bargain with
these drivers, however - good idea is to ignore them from the start, walk out to the nearby street, and
catch a passing tuk-tuk/songthaew there. If your luggage is light, you can walk to the centre -
however, it's quite a long walk, as the Arcade bus station is located in the city north-east outskirts,
almost near Super Highway.
[edit]By train
Services from Bangkok's Hualamphong Train Station leave on a regular daily schedule [14] and take
12-15 hours to reach Chiang Mai.
Daytime services leave at 8:30AM, and 2:30PM with second class (281 baht) and third class (121
baht) carriages. The seats in each class differ in softness and width can become uncomfortable after
10+ hours.
Overnight sleepers are a popular a popular with travellers the fold down bunk beds that give you
relatively comfortable and good value nights accommodation as well as transport. The trains leaving
at 6PM and 7:35PM have 1st class air-con (1253 baht upper bed, 1453 baht lower bed), second class
air-con carriages (791 baht bed upper bed, 881 baht lower bed) and third class carriages (531 baht
bed upper bed, 581 baht lower bed). Services leaving at 7:20PM, 10PM only have regular carriages
and third class seats.
Though the carriages are not particularly modern, all classes are clean; fresh sheets, pleasantly
fragrant toilet and regularly mopped floors. Friendly vendors make regular rounds selling snacks and
drinks, or you can Thai and Western meals, politely described by most as uninspiring. Prices are
exorbitant, if not utterly extortionate (40 baht for a glass of Orange juice, 140 baht for a 650ml Chang
beer!); it might be wise to bring your own.
For the initial part of the journey, you can lounge in pair of facing seats, till at some late hour in the
evening, or on request, the attendant will come around with a special tool to flip down the bunks and
make up your bed. At this point you have little other choice but to climb into your bunk, draw the
curtain to enclose yourself and be lulled off to sleep by the rocking rhythm of the rail. First class
passengers have their own, slightly more spacious, two berth cabin with private toilet, separated from
the commoners in the cheap seats.
If you are not in the mood to go to bed early you may have another option: the dining car. Whatever
seat or first class berth you are traveling in you will find the prices in the dining car are far more
affordable than than the vendors who approach you. And later at night the dining car can turn into an
international disco complete with loud music and flashing lights.
Tickets can be bought up to 60 days in advance at any station in Thailand. Booking in advance is
advised, especially for the popular 2nd class overnight sleepers. Larger stations accept payment with
VISA/MasterCard – this is fairly safe, as SRT is a state-owned company. Alternatively, if you are not
yet in Thailand, the SRT e-ticketing[15] (not currently working - Jan 2010) website will let you buy
and print out an e-ticket. Some find it tricky to register - you have to avoid any special characters while
filling a registration form, you must book at least three days in advance, and you can only purchase
1st and 2nd class aircon sleeper tickets (which are 150-200 baht more expensive than fan-only car
tickets). The price online is exactly what you'd pay in the ticket office. Various travel agencies, some
available to contact from outside Thailand, can also procure tickets for delivery or pick up, with fees
typically starting at 100 baht.
SRT charges 90 baht to transport a bicycle between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai train station is about 3km east of the city centre. Plentiful Songthaews and Tuk Tuks
await each train's arrival or if you want to walk, exit the station, cross the open square in front and turn
left on the first major road you come to (Charoen Muang Road); this road goes directly to the city
centre.
[edit]Get around
Chiang Mai did have a nice new large air conditioned bus service. These were all over the major city
routes but have been discontinued until 2011. There are pedicabs called samlor; the 3-wheeled tuk-
tuk; and the most popular, the songthaew.
[edit]By songthaew or seelor
A songthaew serves as a bus or a taxi.
In lieu of a local bus service, locals get around the city on songthaew (สองแถว). These covered pick-
up trucks have two long bench seats in the back (songthaew means "two rows" in Thai), ply fixed
routes or to any destination, picking up passengers enroute who are going the same way.
The colour of the songthaew indicates its general route or usage. Most common by far
are red songthaews (called roddaeng, red truck), which don't follow a specific route and roam the
main streets around markets, temples or the bus/train stations. These are the most convenient to take
if you are going somewhere specific. Prices must be negotiated. but expect 20 baht anywhere within
the city walls and 40-60 outside. Because of the city's somewhat irrational road design, especially
inside of the old walls, the driver may be forced to take a circuitous route to get to a nearby
destination but will make no difference to the fare.
Fixed route songthaews congregate around Warorot Market. From Warorot
Market, white songthaews travel to the eastern suburban city of Sankampaeng, yellow songthaews
travel to Mae Rim in the north, blue songthaews travel to Sarapee and Lamphun in the south,
and green songthaews travel to Mae Jo in the north-east. The all charge a 20 baht flat rate.
From Pratu Chiang Mai market, songthaews also travel to Hang Dong (20 baht) and San Patong,
south-west of Chiang Mai.
To catch a songtheaw; approach a waiting driver or flag one down on the street, state your
destination and if the driver is going that direction he will nod in agreement and give you a price.
Negotiate a lower fare if you wish. The price agreed to should be per person; it's a good idea to
confirm this with the driver before you leave. On reaching your destination, ring the buzzer on the roof
to tell the driver to stop, or most likely the driver will pull over, wait for you to get out and pay.
[edit]By tuk-tuk or samlor
Tuk-tuks are a quick, though noisy way to get around. Fares are usually 30-40 baht for a short hop
and 50-100B for longer distances, depending on the proficiency your haggling skills. As a
guide, expect to pay 40 baht from the old city to the riverside and Night Bazaar, 40-50 to the railway
station and 80-100 to the bus station or airport. Tuk-tuks parked near the bus and train stations will
ask you for something like 120-150 baht - just haggle or walk away to the nearest road and stop
passing-by tuk-tuk or songthaew there.
Based on expat information, the highest fee for a tuk-tuk at any time of night or day should be B150
for any location in the town (June 2011)
The fee seems to be based on multiples of B20 which is the smallest note. It is a good idea to stock
up on notes and coins as whenever you offer a note higher than the agreed fee the driver has no
change!
A few samlor (three-wheeled bicycles) still cruise the streets and will happily take you to a temple for
the same price as a tuk-tuk, though at a considerably quieter and slower pace.
[edit]By taxi
Chiang Mai has metered taxis, though it can be difficult to persuade the driver to switch the meter on.
If you do prevail, the flag fall is 30 baht for the first 2 km then 4 baht/km after that, otherwise you will
have recur to bargaining a fixed fare. You cannot generally hail taxis in the street. To book a taxi, call
+66 53 279-291, state your destination and the call centre will give you a quote; or contact individual
drivers on the mobile phone numbers displayed on their vehicle.
[edit]By moped (scooter) or motorcycle
A moped is a convenient and cheap way to get around town or reach the outlying sights. There are an
abundance of near indistinguishable rental outfits in town, though most guesthouses can arrange
rental. Automatic geared, 100cc and 125cc bikes capable of carrying two people are the easiest to
jump on and ride away with if you don't have riding experience, but off-road bikes and larger street
bikes are also an option. A valid international drivers permit (IDP) isn't required to ride.
Mopeds run about 150 baht/day for a 100cc motorbike and 150+ baht/day for a Honda Wave 125;
supplied with helmets and a chain. Larger machines cost 700 baht/day for a V-twin chopper or larger
sport-bike. Expect discounts when renting for a week, month or longer.
Rentals will require a deposit, and while many ask for a passport you should under no
circumstances leave your passport with anyone as collateral. Most shops will accept a photocopy
with a cash deposit of around 3,000 - 5,000 baht, this is a much better alternative. While the
petrol/gas tank may be full on pickup, it is not uncommon for shops to deliver a bike with just enough
fuel to go make it to a service station (and of course they will siphon the remainder off when you
return it so the next person is forced to do the same). In any case, return the bike with as much or
more fuel than received to avoid any penalties. Also check out the relative mechanical merit of the
bike being offered. Focus especially on the brakes - the degree of 'pull' needed for the handlebar
lever, and the travel needed for the foot brake. Check that indicators and headlights work properly,
and the tires are reasonably OK.
Some rental agreements claim to insure you but generally only cover the bike for theft or damage.
Don't expect much in the way of compensation if something bad such as an accident occurs - and
despite who is at fault - assume you will be the one considered at fault. Police occasionally fine riders
(including passengers) 200 baht for not wearing a helmet, plus you usually have to go to the police
station the next day to collect your licence.
[edit]By bicycle
Traffic inside the old city walls is subdued enough to make biking a safe and quick way to get around.
Bike rentals are plentiful; rental costs 30-250 baht/day depending on the bike quality.
[edit]By car
Car hire services are available both in the city center and at the airport. Typical cars that can be
rented include Toyota Vios, Altis, Yaris, Honda City, Jazz. Typical rates for newer models are 1200-
2000 baht per day. Expect a slight discount when renting weekly. Utility pickups such as Toyata Hilux
and Fortuner are also available. Many places offer minivans such as 10-seater Toyota Commuter with
driver from about 2000 baht per day plus fuel. Older Suzuki Caribean 4WD jeeps are a cheaper option
at around 600-800 baht per day but they are relatively difficult to drive and less mechanically reliable
than a standard passenger car.
[edit]On foot
The old city is only a mile square, and as such is easy to walk around. The airport is also quite close
to the old part of town--about 2.5 km--so if you have the energy and an hour to spare, you can even
walk to and from the airport. Note that this is not necessarily a pleasant experience as the sidewalks
are uneven (or non-existent) and Chiang Mai gets hot during the day, especially during the hot
season, and rainy during the rainy season. The cost of a taxi or songthaew from the moat area to the
airport is around 150 THB.
[edit]Hiring a car or minivan with driver
This is is a great option for travelling to places outside Chiang Mai city, and the price is often similar to
hiring a car and driving yourself. You'll also be able to relax and enjoy the scenery in air-conditioned
comfort. The cost for a private car with driver is generally from 1500 baht per day plus fuel depending
on the type of vehicle and where you are going. The driver will typically pick you up with a full tank of
fuel and you pay at the end. Large Toyota Hi-Ace, Nissan Urvan and newer Toyota Commuter
minivans go for around 2000 baht per day plus fuel. Most hotels and some guesthouses can arrange
it for you, in addition to vehicle rental outlets and the many travel agencies in town.
[edit][add listing]See
[edit]Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
Courtyard of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
The quintessential image of Chiang Mai with its large gold-plated chedi, visible from the city on a clear
day, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep (ว�ดพระธาตุ�ดอยส�เทพ, Huai Kaeo Rd, 30 baht, [16]) is 18 km from town,
sitting at a 1,073 m elevation on the slopes of Doi (Mount) Suthep. Built in 1383 during the Lanna Thai
period, legend has it that the temples site was selected by an elephant sent to roam the mountain
side, where upon reaching a suitable spot, it trumpeted, circled three times, knelt down and promptly
died - which was interpreted as a sign indicating an auspicious site. The temple is and offers grand
views over the city, but no reward is without effort as you must accent the 300-plus steps of the Naga
lined stairs. The climb may be a strain in high altitudes thin air for the less fit so you may opt to take
the cable car for 20 baht. For the Visaka Bucha holiday in June or July each year, it is traditional for
people to walk from the zoo to the temple and vast numbers make the pilgrimage to the top, which
takes around 4-5 hours.
In the vicinity there are several other attractions you may want to consider visiting. The Bhuping Royal
Palace gardens (see below) are 4km further along the road from Wat Prathat, with a reasonably easy
walk along the meter-wide road shoulder, or you can get a shared Songthaew from Wat Prathat for
B30, but you may have to wait until it fills up. Further along the road is a hilltribe village, and although
tourist oriented, is really worth the trip! There are many shops for local handicraft etc. These are the
people from the far north of the country, many originally from Myanmar.
Getting there is a source of much consternation by many travellers. Clearly marked songthaews
leave from Pratu Chang Phuak. Prices are fixed at 40 baht up and 30 baht down; but the drivers wait
until they have sufficient (up to 8) passengers before they depart, potentally making for a lengthy wait.
Most guidebooks advise taking a sawngthaew from Th Mani Nopharat, resulting in the drivers milking
the tourist cash-cow and raising their price from a reasonable 40 baht to a ludicrous 500 baht.
Another option to get there is to take a songthaew from your hotel to the northern gate of Chiang Mai
University for B20 (if you are close to the city walls), where there will be several waiting on Huai Kaeo
Rd to get a full load of passengers for a trip up the mountain. They seem to congregate around the
Chiang Mai zoo - so if you just say "zoo" to the driver they will know what you're talking about. Prices
range from 40 baht for a one-way trip to Wat Prathat to 180 baht for a full round-trip tour, including the
temple, Bhuping palace gardens and the the hill tribe village, with an hour at each location, but you
may have to wait until there are sufficient people who want the same tour or be prepared to pay more.
You can also get between many of these by buying point-to-point tickets at the time you want them, or
walking some segment. Any songthaew up the mountain road may be a trial for those prone to
motion-sickness, so take appropriate precautions.
There are several little annoying charges to pay for foreigners. To enter the Doi Suthep itself is free
for Thais, and 30 baht for foreigners. Tour operators will ask 700 baht for a tour.
The journey from town can be made by motorcycle or a bicycle with appropriate gearing. The final 12
km from the zoo onwards is entirely uphill and will take 60-90 minutes if cycling.
[edit]Other temples
There are more than 300 temples in Chiang Mai and its outskirts, with a dozen stand-outs of historical
or architectural significance within walking distance of each other. Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai
show a mixture of Lanna Thai, Burmese, Sri Lankan and Mon architectural styles that reflect the
varied heritage of Northern Thailand.
Though certain temples on the conventional tourist circuit can be overrun with loud groups it is not
hard to find many less well known, but no less interesting, temples quietly and gently crumbling in the
absence of tourist hordes. Whichever you visit, keep in mind that the temples are sacred religious
places of deep cultural significance for the locals. Show respect by wearing appropriate attire (long
pants for men, modest tops and skirts for women, no bare shoulders or plunging necklines and
women must wear a bra). You must take off your shoes before entering the temple or other buildings,
but they may wear them in the courtyard. Taking photographs of Buddha images is no problem, but
it is polite to ask before taking pictures of monks or locals. All temples are free.
[edit]Inside the old city walls
Wat Phra Singh, Corner of Singharaj Rd and Rajdamnern Rd. Probably Chiang Mai's best-known
temple, housing the Phra Singh image, completed between 1385 and 1400. Of most historical
interest is the Wihaan Lai Kham in the back, featuring Lanna-style temple murals and intricate
gold patterns on red lacquer behind the altar. The large chedi was built in 1345 by King Pha Yu to
house the remains of his father King Kam Fu. A typical scripture repository is located at this
temple as well. These repositories were designed to keep and protect the delicate sa or mulberry
paper sheets used by monks and scribes to keep records and write down folklore. The high
stucco-covered stone base of the repository protected the delicate scriptures from the rain, floods
and pests. The walls of the chapel are covered with murals illustrating Lanna customs, dress, and
scenes from daily life. The lovely Lai Kam chapel houses the revered Phra Singh Buddha image.
Sadly, the head was stolen in 1922, and a reproduction is now seen. edit
Wat Chiang Man, Rajpakinai Rd. The oldest Royal temple in the city. Presumed to date from the
year Chiang Mai was founded (1296), it is famed for two Buddha images, which according to
legend are 1800 and 2500 years old. King Mengrai allegedly lived here while the city of Chiang
Mai was being constructed. Enshrined in Wat Chiang Man is a tiny crystal Buddha called Pra
Seh-Taang Kamaneeee, which is thought to have the power to bring rain. Another image, called
Phra Sila Khoa, reflects the fine workmanship of Indian craftsmen from thousands of years
ago. edit
Wat Chedi Luang, Prapokklao Rd. Almost in the centre of Chiang Mai is the remains of a
massive chedi that toppled in in the great earthquake of 1545. The temple was originally
constructed in 1401 on the orders of King Saeng Muang Ma. In 1454, reigning King Tilo-Garaj
enlarged the chedi (pronounced jedee) to a height of 86 metres. After the earthquake, the chedi
lay in ruins until 1991-92, during which time it was reconstructed at a cost of several million baht.
A magnificent testament to Lanna (northern Thai) architecture and art, restored sections hint at its
former glory. Wat Chedi Luang is also home to the "Pillar of the City", a totem used in ancient
Thai fertility rites. edit
Wat Phra Jao Mengrai, Ratchamankha Road (Near Heuan Phen). An atmospheric wooden
temple away from the beaten track, quiet and gently crumbling in the absence of tourist
hordes. edit
[edit]Outside the old city walls
Wat Jet Yod (ว�ดเจ็�ดยอด. Sometimes called Wat Chet Yot), SuperHighway (about 1km north of
the Huay Kaew Rd/Superhighway intersection). The history and unusual architecture scattered
under the yawning canopy of ancient trees is an pleasant antidote to the flash and bustle
encountered at popular temples. Established in 1455 to host the eighth World Buddhist Council,
many features of the grounds imitate significant places of the Buddhas enlightenment. Originally
called Botharam Maha Vihata in honour of the venerated Bodhi tree, it came to be known as Wat
Jet Yod by locals, after the seven spires (Jet Yod) protruding from the roof of the Vihara. The
square sided design of the Virhra is a replica of Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya, India, though the
translation has distorted proportions somewhat. Remnants of the graceful stucco relief murals that
adorned the walls depict angels with a distinctly Indian flavour. The grounds also hold some more
recently built, but abandoned looking, eroded chedis and buckling bases of vanished halls,
overshadowed by a fully intact, though more diminutive, replica of 'Chedi Luang that was built
around 1487 to house the ashes of King Tilokarat. edit
Wat Suan Dok (Suthep Rd). A large open sided hall with a jumble of rougly hewen Buddhas with
a huge dazzlingly whitewashed Chedi behind. edit
Wat Umong, off Suthep Rd (At the end of a long narrow road, off Suthep Road. Turn at the Italian
restaurant.). An ancient temple in the forest just outside Chiang Mai. King Mengrai built this
temple for a highly respected forest monk who liked to wander in the countryside, hence the
isolated location where the monk could stay quietly and meditate. It is unusual in that it has
tunnel-like chambers in the ground, some of the walls of which still have the original paintings of
birds and animals visible. The large stupa is magnificent, and there is an eerie statue of a fasting,
emaciated buddha next to it. You can also take a break by the ponds, where you can feed the fish
and turtles. edit
[edit]Museums
There are many art galleries and exhibitions in Chiang Mai, featuring contemporary artwork of both
local Thai and Myanmar artists.
The Chiang Mai City Arts and Culture Centre building
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre, In the very centre of the old city on Prapokklao Road
between Rajdumnern Road and Rajwithee Road, ☎ +66 53 217793. 8:30AM-5PM daily except
Mondays. This fully modernised multimedia history and cultural education centre has guides
dressed in elegant traditional Thai clothing who will usher you into an air-conditioned room to
watch an English-subtitled orientation video about Chiang Mai and the north. Next, you will be
pointed to a series of rooms documenting the region's history and culture in chronological order
from the pre-Muang period (7,000-12,000 years ago) to the early river civilizations, to the early
kings through the wars with the Burmese and the last dynasty, to the city today and its plans for
the future. Other rooms are devoted to Buddhism and other regional beliefs, agricultural history,
hill tribe peoples and other regional cultures, and a run-down of the royal dynasties. The exhibits
consist of a smart visual mix of video, scale models, enlarged photos, wall murals and text in Thai
and English. 90 baht. edit
Chiang Mai National Museum, On the Super Highway (Within walking distance of Wat Chet
Yot), ☎ +66 53 221308, [17].9AM-4PM W-Su. Offers an insight into the history of Chiangmai 100
Baht. edit
Chiang Mai Numismatic Museum (Treasury Hall), 52 Ratchadamnoen Rd, ☎ +66 53 22
4237/8. M-Sa 9AM-3:30PM. edit
Chiang Mai University Art Museum, Corner Suthep and Nimmanhaemin Rd, ☎ +66 53
944833. Tu-Su 9AM-5PM. There are exhibitions by undergraduates from the Fine Arts
Department at Chiangmai University. These change often and the standard of work on display by
the students is of a high standard. Each month there is usually at least one art exhibition featuring
the works of artists from South East Asia. The museum also hosts musical concerts - often free -
in the adjoining theatre.Free. edit
The Lisu Hill Tribe display at the Hilltribe Research Institute Museum, which unfortunately closed after a fire in January
2011.
Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders, Soi 13 Srimankalajarn Rd, ☎ +66 53
211891, [18]. Daily 9AM-5PM. One of Asia's most unusual museums housing butterflies, beetles
and beyond. Also as a large selection of minerals. Some explainations in English, some in
Thai.> 300 Baht. edit
Postal Museum, Mae Ping Post Office. Tu-Sa 8:30AM-4:30PM. Free. edit
[edit]Gardens and nature
Bhuping Palace, (On Route 1004, beyond Doi Suthep). This royal winter palace has lavishly
landscaped gardens and is open to the public daily 08:30-11:30 & 13:00-15:00 when the Thai
royal family is not in residence. Dress code strictly applied: dress modestly or pay B15 for
fisherman pants hire to cover your lack of it - this includes ANY leg above the ankle either
gender). The palace itself (built in 1961) is not particularly exciting, but the extensive gardens are
picturesque with some amazing plant life, including carefully curated tropical flowers, as well as
centuries-old trees and giant bamboo. A sign at the bottom of the hill near the zoo will indicate
when it's closed. It is close to Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, so travel directions are similar. 50 Baht,
children 10 Baht. edit
Chiang Mai Foreign Cemetery, Thanon Chiang Mai-Lamphun (about 800m north of the Holiday
Inn, on the east side of the Ping River). A serene place of history and remembrance. edit
Chiang Mai Zoo & Aquarium, 100 Huay Kaew Rd (At the foot of Doi Suthep), ☎ +66 53 893-
111, [19]. 09:00-17:30 daily. Extremely popular with Thai tourists, and so expect long queues.
Whilst better than some zoos the animals are nevertheless kept in small enclosures. Operates an
unpleasnat dual pricing system whereby non-Thais are charged approximately double the price of
Thai nationals. Addtional charges also apply for both the Panda exhibition and the aquarium.
There are more stalls selling the usual trinkets than enclosures, and more human visitors than
animals: not much to recommend, including that the journey from the city centre can be lengthy
because of long queues of cars, the dual pricing system, and the less-than-ideal condtions for the
animals. The car parking facilities are best described as chaotic. 100 Bahts. edit
Dokmai Garden, [20]. This garden displays 120 different edible fruit plants, 140 different
vegetables, 200 native orchid species, in total over 1000 vascular plants. Of these, 500 have
been selected for presentations on aluminium signs with informative information (English,
Japanese and Thai). The plants have scientific names. The area is compact (4 ha or 10 acres)
and surrounded by plantations of teak, bananas, longan and dry dipterocarp savannah. It is near
Opkhan National Park, and between the famous Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep national parks. The
garden also hosts natural populations of the Atlas moth and the Golden Birdwing butterfly, and is
visited by over 80 wild and free bird species. The garden is a member of the SEABG (Southeast
Asian Botanical Gardens network) and collaborates with Chiangmai University (mushrooms),
Maejo University (fish), Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden (plants), Tourism Authority of Thailand
and Opkhan National Park. edit
[edit]Elephants
Elephant Nature Park, ☎ +66 53 818932, [21]. Approximately 60km north of Chiang Mai is a
sanctuary for rescued and distressed elephants. They are not here to perform or do tricks and
people visiting here will leave with a whole new understanding of these magnificent creatures.
Day and overnight visits as well as one week volunteering opportunities can be booked via their
website. During the day visit, which costs 2500 Baht per adult, you will feed and bathe the
elephants, watch them wander around the 150 acre area, and will be provided with a buffet lunch.
They will also pick and drop you off at your hotel in Chiang Mai. edit
Maesa Elephant Camp, 119/9 Tapae Rd, ☎ +66 53 206247 or +66 53 206248, [22]. An
elephant camp in the hills about a half hour's drive north of the city center. It has an elephant
show, which includes elephants playing football and painting. You can also take half hour or one
hour elephant rides. Not exactly a place to bring a PETA activist, but many (people) do enjoy the
performances. edit
Baanchang Elephant Park, 147/1 Rachadamnoen Rd, ☎ +66 53 814174 or +66 89
6355206, [23]. Aside from being one of the cheapest places to appreciate these wonderful
animals in Chiang Mai, Baanchang treats these animals extremely well and the love and care
displayed by Mahouts (elephant carers) contrasts markedly with that displayed at many other
local elephant 'camps'. For those who stay overnight, the hosts host a night by the campfire
putting on rural entertainment such as making sticky rice in bamboo and releasing fire lanterns
into the night sky. A true gem of Chiang Mai which can be accessed from many of the local hotels
and hostels. edit
[edit]Muay Thai
Thai boxing is the national sport of Thailand. It can be seen in three different stadiums:
Kawila Boxing Stadium - not far from Narawat Bridge, a short block south of Thapae road in the
NIght Bazaar, has real Muay Thai fights (almost) every Friday at 20:00 with 10 bouts ranging from
young debutant fighters, local champions, and locals vs foreigners. Entry is 400 baht and 600
baht (as of November 2011).The smaller of the three stadiums it is nearly open-air but with a new
tent covering and good lighting. This is much more authentic than the frenzied beer bar
atmosphere of the other two locations.
Loi Kroh Boxing Stadium is on Loi Kroh Road near the Night Bazaar. Fights are usually held 3-
4 nights per week, look for flyers posted up all over the old city. They usually have about 8 fights
and feature Thai fighters as well as a few matches with foreign fighters. This may not be the best
location to see Muay Thai with family, as it is surrounded by "girlie bars" and during a break
between the fights a group of ladyboys will put on a dance and occasionally strip. Admission is
400 baht for normal seating or 600 for VIP. After about 11pm the complex is opened up for free,
letting all the touts (flower sellers etc) in. If you are on a tight budget you may be able to see a few
of the remaining fights for free this way.
Thapae Boxing Stadium is on Moon Muang Road near Thapae Gate. It also hosts around 8
fights per show, including a few matches with foreign fighters. This is the larger of the three
stadiums and has food as well as beverages served. Gambling is prominently featured.
[edit][add listing]Do
If you are feeling templed-out, there are a multitude of things to do in Chiangmai.
[edit]Cinema
Chiang Mai Vista Cinema (Kad Suan Kaew) [24] - on Huay Kaew road. The tickets prices
around 80-120 Baht depending on the duration of the film. The place is not very popular amongst
local since it is a bit old and worn. No digital or 3D films shown at Vista.
Major Cineplex (Airport Plaza) [25] - tickets prices around 120-260 depending on the duration of
the film and seat type. Honeymoon seats generally cost 40 Baht more than standard seats. If you
would like to avoid the crowd, avoid going on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Make sure to
check the language of the film prior to booking. Some childrens movies are dubbed into Thai.
[edit]Theatre
The Playhouse Complex (Changpueak) [26] - on Changpueak road. The tickets prices for the
show are Adult 1,000 Baht and Child 500 Baht. Including Thai buffet (Saturdays) Adult 1,300
Baht. Child 650 Baht. The Playhouse Theatre is Chiang Mai’s newest & trendiest attraction. Start
your evening with a unique dining experience in Kinnaree Park. Set within an eco-friendly
environment, surrounded by mountains and waterfalls offering a unique Lanna Culture experience
to excite your senses with traditional dance and delicious northern Thai buffet before entering the
theatre adjacent to the restaurant. The 350 seat capacity theatre hosts two shows per day at 8pm
and 10 pm. Presenting Sequins & Dance a fun and happy performance of wholesome
entertainment thats full of sparkle, movement & emotion to make a memorable evening.
Performed by 30 Thai national performers it will excite you with every form of dance. Family,
individual or Group bookings welcome.
[edit]Massage
Let's Relax, 2F Chiang Mai Pavilion and B1F Chiang Inn Plaza, Chang Khlan Road. Does
professional massage in very clean if not downright sterile surroundings complete with air-con,
the sound of running water and gentle scents. A 45-minute foot reflexology session costs 350
baht, nearly twice the price of the competition, but is worth every satang after a long trek.
Nantana Massage Shop, (near Sompet Market on Soi 6). Has very knowledgeable and friendly
staff, and air-con. Thai massage 150 baht/hour; oil, foot, and neck/shoulder massage also
available.
Green Bamboo Massage, 1 Moon Muang Road, Soi 1(mobile: +66(0)898275563)[27]. Is a small
and very charming studio inside the moat with a fair and sustainable concept,located in a typical
wooden thai house. The certified staff is highly trained in the arts of ancient Thai Massage
Therapy. The owner uses real homemade cosmetics and even created her own aloe vera oil.
Choose from a great variety of treatments and packages for fair prices (start with 200 Baht/hour).
The Sun Massage, Loi Kroh Road, Opp 7-Eleven. Recently relocated to Loi Kroh, the shop
sports a very clean, and pleasant modern decor. The masseuse are very friendly, and provides
decent, skilled massages. A traditional thai massage goes for 199 baht/ hour. There is a white
table in front of the shop where the masseuse often hang out when they're not working.
Viang Ping Massage & Spa, Thapae Road, Soi 2. Tel 053874071 Opposite Wat Bupparam. A
very clean & well run business , professionally run by Fern, manager-proprietor. All massages
based on the Lanna, Northern Thai style, using pressure points & energy lines. Home made
coconut oil & natural facial, body scrub & wrap products. Fern also teaches massage & spa to
individuals or occasionally to small family groups.Prices average, 200 baht Thai, foot or head &
shoulder, 250 baht oil. Loyalty cards for regular customers , free massage after 10.
Fah Lanna Massage, [28] 186/3 Loy Kroh Road, near the night bazaar, down the street from Mc
Donald's, past Royal Lanna Hotel. (mobile: +66(0)896950802 or +66(0)820303029;
[email protected]). A small and very cozy massage shop close to the Iron Bridge across Ping
river. Clean, friendly and professional, Fah Lanna gets continuously the highest ratings in
customer reviews. First customers get a gentle foot-bath with scrub and comfortable clothes to
change into and after the massage they offer ginger tea and a cold towel. The decoration and the
music they play are beautiful and add to the experience. After collecting 10 stamps (1 stamp per 1
hour treatment) they give a free massage. Massages here are excellent and prices are very
reasonable, starting from 200 Baht.
[edit]Motorcycling
Motorcycle touring is a great way to explore Northern Thailand. One good day trip out of Chiang
Mai is up and over Doi Suthep, which will take you up to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, and beyond
the mountain to the reservoir.
Motor-scooter touring as far as Mae Hong Son and suitable for the less experienced
motorcyclist.
[edit]Rafting
Rafting down the Maetang river is offered by several companies and can often be combined with
elephant riding or mountain biking. During the dry season (Jan-Feb) water levels are relatively low
with only grade 2-3 rapids, but during the rainy season (Jun-Oct) higher water levels make for a more
exciting grade 4-5 trip.
Peak Adventure Tour offers 10km rafting trips that can be combined with elephant riding or ATV
driving.
[edit]Rainforest Canopy Walk
An activity normally associated with Central America, Thailand is now emerging as a world-class
canopy tour destination.
AFECT runs a course exploring canopy bio diversity [29].
Flight of the Gibbon Zipline Adventure Tour [30] (~3299 baht) Zipline through the 1500 year old
rainforest high above the forest floor. 5km of ziplines connect lookout platforms, lowering stations and
skybridges, making the experience a full zipline canopy tour. There are two locations, one located in
the mountains outside of Chiang Mai, the other one hour from both Bangkok and Pattaya in Chonburi.
After the tour you can hike up alongside the Mae Kompong Waterfall in Chiang Mai, or take a tour of
the natural wildlife habitat surrounding the Chonburi location. Allow 7 hours total for the tour from
pickup to drop off - earliest collection time 5.30am.
[edit]River Cruise
A pleasant way to get a feel for the Chiang Mai city and its layout is to take a boat trip on the Ping
River.
[edit]Sport
Aerobics Aerobics sessions are held in the car park of Tesco Lotus on the Superhighway every
weekday from 5.30PM The sessions are very popular and tourists or visitors to Chiang Mai are
made very welcome. Regular water aerobics classes, incorporating Tai Chi and yoga exercises,
are held at the Centre of the Universe Swimming Pool [31]
Cricket - The North of Thailand may seem an odd place to find an international cricket
tournament. Every year since 1988 more than 200 cricketers from around the world gather at
Chiang Mai for the tournament. The week long tournament for amateur players, with a sprinkling
of Test stars, it is held at the historic Chiang Mai Gymkhana Club, generally at the start of
April. [32]
Rock Climbing - Approximately 35 miles east of Chiang Mai lies Crazy Horse Buttress, a 60-
meter, orange- and black-streaked monolith jutting out of the green Mae On farming valley. Crazy
Horse boasts more than 130 bolted routes between (French system) grades 5 and 8a, which
makes it an ideal destination for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Spend multiple days
exploring every part of the crag, or just spend a day or an afternoon above ground as a break
from exploring the magnificent caves of the region. Climbing guides and information are also
available from Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventures [33] and The Peak [34].
Mountain Biking - Just west of Chiang Mai lies the beautiful Doi Suthep National Park, its sumit
at 1650m, 1300m above the valley floor. Chiang Mai Mountain biking runs daily downhill trips and
nature cross country rides see [35]
Tennis - There are several places to play tennis in Chiang Mai: Amari Rincom Hotel, 1,
Nimmanhemin Road, Anantasiri Court, 90/1 Chiang Mai - Lampang Super-Highway; Chiang Mai
Land Village, Chiang Mai Land Road; Gymkhana Club, Chiang Mai - Lamphun Road [36];Imperial
Chiang Mai Resort & Sports Club, 284 Moo 3, Don Kaew, Mae Rim [37]; Lanna Sports Club,
Chotana Road; Palm Springs, 120 Moo 5, Mahidol Road, and Chiang Mai Sports Complex (700
Year Stadium, Irrigation Canal Road (Route 121 to Mae Rim), which has 12 courts. All courts are
bookable in advance and at most floodlighting makes it possible to play in the evening when it is
cooler. There is an additional charge to cover the cost of electricity.
[edit]Swim
Chiang Mai swimming pools open to the public vary in quality, cleanliness and accessibility. On
balance, those pools which are operated to internationally recognised standards of water quality are
those which are privately owned by foreign investors.
Seven Hundred Year Stadium - a huge sports complex built for the South East Asia Games,
held in Chiangmai in the early 1990's, and now a public sports and recreation centre. This is
located along the outer ring road (Irrigation Canal Road) Route 121, towards Mae Rim. It is about
8 kilometres from the city centre and takes about fifteen minutes to get there by tuk-tuk/taxi. The
pool is sanitised using chlorine.
Centre of the Universe Swimming Pool and Resort [38] - open to tourists and other visitors.
There are 3 swimming pools and deck. To get there, take Huay Kaew Road (Route 1004) from
the city towards Doi Suthep. At the intersection of Routes 1004 and 121, follow the signs for Mae
Rim. From the intersection, travel 1.2 km towards Mae Rim and turn left at the 5th bridge over the
canal. Go straight for 600 metres to the end of the road following signs for "Sang Serene House"
and turn right. The Centre of the Universe is 300 metres on the right. It is 6 km from the city and
takes 10-15 minutes by tuk-tuk/taxi. A detailed map and directions in Thai and English can be
printed from their website [39] The pool is sanitised using salt water.
Hotel Pools - Some upmarket hotels such as The Orchid and the Amari Rincome Hotel on Huay
Kaew Road, allow "outsiders" to use their pools on payment of a fee. Travelling time from the city
centre is around 10 minutes. These are sanitised using chlorine.
Chiang Mai Land Swimming Pool - is in "Chiang Mai Land" off Chang Klan Road. Open to the
public current (2008) prices are 50 Baht per adult and 30 Baht per child. It has a pool deck and
also has a restaurant and pool-side service. The pool is about 5.5 km from the city centre and
takes between 10-12 minutes by tuk-tuk/taxi. The pool is sanitised using chlorine.
The lake at Huay Tung Tao - This is a reservoir within surrounding woodlands, and is located
further along the Irrigation Canal Road than the Centre of the Universe and after the 700 Year
Sports Stadium, as you head towards Mae Rim (Route 121). The lake is about 12 kilometres from
the city centre and takes 15-20 minutes by tuk-tuk/taxi. 20 Baht entrance fee.
Waterfalls and natural pools - at the foot of Doi Suthep on Huay Kaew Road. Look out for a
large Buddhist Shrine on your left after travelling past the the entrance to Chiangmai Zoo. Turn
left into the market at the back of the Shrine, and keep walking up the hill. You will come to the
waterfalls after about 5 minutes. There is no charge for entry. The pools at the bottom of the water
falls are not really big enough for swimming but are a great place to cool off at the height of the
summer. During the dry season some of the water falls dry up - head for the high ground and you
will still find pools full of fresh water! There are usually quite a few students hanging out there
from the nearby university, who will happily practice their English conversational skills with you.
About 7 kilometres from the city centre, it takes 10-15 minutes by tuk-tuk/taxi to get there.
[edit]Festivals & exhibitions
Bo Sang Umbrella & Sankampang Handicrafts Festival Takes place 20th-22nd January at
Ban Bo Sang, Sankampang. The festival is in the form of a "street fair" in which the central road of
the village is used, with shops on both sides. Shops are decorated in Lanna style, most with the
well-known umbrellas, as well as with traditional lanterns. In addition there are contests,
exhibitions, cultural performances, local entertainment and assorted shows day and night. There
is a grand procession decorated with umbrellas and local products, a variety of handicrafts for
sale, northern-style kantoke meals and the Miss Bo Sang pageant.
The 2nd Orchid Fair (January) is the biggest orchid fair of the year, with an orchid market,
activities and more.
Royal Flora Exposition, [40]. A magnificent showcase of 50,000 orchid plants representing
nearly 10,000 orchid species, plus much more.
Flower festival float
Khom Loy hot air balloons launch
Chiang Mai Flower Festival[41] is staged every year during the first weekend in February. The
city is awash with vibrant colous ranging from the electric orange and lilac colours of the
bougainvillea to the velvety blossoms of petunias in all shades of pink, white and purple. The
strident red of the poinsettias, bought by many at Christmas and New Year, is echoed by beds of
scarlet salvias. Homes and shop owners alike line the city streets with colourful flower boxes. The
sheer profusion of colour that the flower festival and carnival brings to Chiang Mai aptly gives the
city its name "Rose of the North". On all three days of the festival, prize blooms are on display at
Suan Buak Haad near the city centre. Many types of flower, miniature trees and orchida are put
on display for the judges to choose the best of the species. Landscape specialists put on an
elaborate display, which includes patios and waterfalls with exotic decorative plants and flowers.
The best part of the flower festival is on Saturday. The parade lines up from the train station to
Narawatt bridge so the police close most of Jarenmuang Road around 8AM. The VIP viewing
stand is right next to the bridge in front of the Chiang Mai Governor's home. The parade route
goes down Thapae Road to the Gate and turns left and follows the moat to Suan Buak Haad City
Park. The parade moves at a slow pace and stops several times so there is plenty of time to take
pictures of the colourful floats, pretty girls and hilltribe people in costume. The people in the
parade hand out roses to spectators lining the road. When the parade finishes everyone heads to
Suan Buak Haad where all the floats, award winning flower growers and landscape projects are
all on display. There are plenty of food stalls in the park, and in the late afternoon the Miss Chiang
Mai Flower festival starts. The party goes well into the evening until the new Flower Festival
Queen has been chosen. This is a great time to visit Chiang Mai, as the air is cool and the
evenings fresh and clear. If you want to see the festival make sure you book your hotels and
flights well in advance.
Songkran Festival[42] The Thai Water Festival is celebrated as the Thai new year from April 13-
15 (though it may begin a day or two early). The most obvious sign that you're in the middle of the
festival is when you get soaked by someone pouring a bucket of water over you, or squirting you
with a water gun! This tradition evolved from people tossing water that had been poured over holy
statues, since this water was expected to be good luck. Now, it takes the form of a free-for-all
water fight, and you will undoubtedly be drenched. It's also a way of staying cool during the very
hot and humid month of April.
Inthakin or Tham Boon Khan Dok[43] is the City Pillar Festival in Chiang mai. This is a six-day
festival where the city pillar spirits are propitiated to ensure the continuity of the city. Occurs in
May or June as part of the Northern Thailand lunar calendar. Very large event focused around
Wat Chedi Luang.
Loi Krathong Festival[44] If you like candles placed in colourful paper lanterns, fireworks,
beautiful girls in traditional dress, parade floats, lots of food, and parties, don't miss the Loi
Krathong festival, which in Chiang Mai lasts for 3 full days, the last night being that of the 12th full
moon of the year (which is usually in November). In the small town of Mae Jo, north of Chiang
Mai, they start the festival on Saturday night by simultaneously launching thousands upon
thousands of hot air balloons called "Khom Loy".
[edit]Learn
[edit]Buddhism
Wat Chom Tong, Tambon Ban Luang, Amphoe Chom Tong (about 60km south-west of the
city) +66 53-826869 / +66 53-826180. the home temple of the meditation master Achan Tong,
and offers residential courses in Vipassana Meditation on an on-going basis.
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep [45] (under See). The International Buddhist Centre offers short and
long residential courses in Vipassana meditation in English. A brand new centre, including
accommodation blocks and Vitara (chanting hall), is now open.
Wat Ram Poeng, Tambon Suthep, Amphoe Muang (4 miles south-west of the city) +66 53-
278620, [46]. Offers facilities for retreats and meditation instruction. Ten day minimum stay
required for introduction to Vipassana Meditation techniques. English speaking monks are
available to assist foreigners. For non-native English speakers, long-term students from your
home country may be available to offer translation services.
Wat Suan Dok Th Suthep, Chiang Mai (1/2 a mile west of the Old City Moat), +66 53-278967.
Has a meet and greet for tourists and monks, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoon
between 17:00 and 19:00 hrs. Also, you can sign up for a 24-hrs introduction meditation retreat
(they are offered on Tuesdays).
Wat Umong, Tambon Suthep, Amphoe Muang (3 and a half miles out of town) +66 53-277248
(08:30-16:00), [47]. Offers meditation courses and Dharma instruction in English every Sunday
15:00-18:00.
[edit]Thai Boxing (Muay Thai)
Learn to fight off those pestering touts:
Chiang Mai Muay Thai - Chay Yai Gym In Nong Hoi, about 10 minutes from downtown. Top
northern fighters train foreigners for a day, a week, or a month at a time. Accommodation
available near the gym.[48]
Lanna Muay Thai on Soi Chiang Khian, off Huay Kaew Road, near Centre of the Universe
Chiangmai Swimming Pool. Muay Thai coaching[49]
Muay Thai Chiangmai gym, Burklerk Gym located on 41 Kalare Night Bazaar ,The 2nd floor of
The Night Bazaar Place Hotel, use Hotel Gate Entry to gym, opposite to the D2 Hotel, Night
Bazaar walking street,the Muay Thai training center in Chiangmai city , Muaythai Training for the
beginner,for being the coach,for fitness and for the professional fighter. Muay Thai by own Thai
and champion of Thailand , Lumpini champion name master Burklerk Pinsinchai emai:
[email protected] [50]
[edit]Thai Cooking
Air's Thai Culinary Kitchen[51], 9/1 Nongprateep Rd. -- +66 53 249326, +66 81 9936564, . Set
in 1.6 acres of tranquil, landscaped grounds in a private house. The kitchen’s unique design
draws from professional experience and is purpose built, and surrounded by herb and spice
gardens.
A Lot Of Thai Cooking School[52], +66 53-800724. A family run home cooking class, taught by
the owner for every class. Welcome to vegetarians and people with any kind of food restriction.
Courses include market tour and a recipe book is provided for later use.
Baan Thai Cookery School[53], 11 Ratchadamnoen Road, Soi 5, near Thapae Gate, +66 53-
357339 / +66-16714120, . Courses include a cook book and market tour. Have full day or evening
classes
Chiang Mai Kitchen Cooking School[54] +66-97002099. 20 minutes from downtown Chiang
Mai. The organic herb and vegetable garden supplements ingredients that are purchased at the
morning market. Before and/or after your day in the kitchen, you can stay overnight in their
traditional Thai bamboo house.
Chiang Mai Thai Cookery School[55], at 1-3 Moon Muang Road, +66 53-206388 (fax: +66 53-
206387), . Offers 1/2/3/4/5-day courses. 990 Baht for 1 day course.
Cooking Class Asia[56]. Cooking Class Asia offers interactive cooking class vacations to people
who want to make Thai cooking and culinary discovery the focus of their holiday in Chiang Mai.
Gap's School Of Thai Culinary Art[57] Has its office at Gap's House, 3 Rajadamnern Soi 4 +66
53-270143. High standards, proper organisation, your own stove, 1 teacher per 5 students.
Grandma's Thai Recipes[58], +66 53 -121656. Provides traditional Thai cooking instruction.
Vegetarian Friendly. Restaurant and booking office located in the center of town just north of
Thapae Gate. 48 Chaiyapoom Rd.(Cooking School 15 minutes out of town, transportation
provided).
Siam Rice Thai Cookery School[59], +66 53-329091. Friendly and knowledgeable staff provide
a course on local and traditional recipes. The course includes a market tour and provides you with
the recipes for the dishes that you create.
Smart Cook Thai Cookery School, 21 Moonmuang Road, Soi 5, +66 53-418309. Market tour,
cook book. Accommodates vegetarian cooking. Small classes and fun staff.
Sompet Cookery School, 56 Patan Road, +66 53-214897. Learn to cook traditional Thai food at
a riverside home. Daily courses, morning and afternoon. A recipe book with color photographs
provided for each dish, suggesting many ways to prepare and serve Thai food.
Smile Thai Cookery School[60], +66-53-800-567-8. They teach you to prepare good Thai dishes
with the real techniques that you can take back home. The class runs Monday – Friday in a fun
environment. You can discover that the good Thai food is not that difficult to make.
Classic Home Cooking[61], (+66 53219056) Choose any dish from more than 50 dishes on their
menu. 6 dishes per day for morning class and 4 dishes for evening class. The cooking class is
running every day in a house.
Spicyhouse Cooking School[62], +66 857135425 42/1 Ratchamanka Road next to Wat Kha
Phao. Small class max. 5 taught by the owner. Participants choose 5 dishes for a full day or 3
dishes for half day. Market tour and cook book included. Students eat what they cook.
Vegetarians welcome.
Thai Cottage Cookery School [63], +66 53326608 25/2 Ratchadumnern Rd Soi 1. Participants
learn 5 dishes in a full day, including making curry paste from scratch 800 Baht. 3-course half-day
courses are available 600 Baht. Market tour and cook book included. Modifications for
vegetarians are easily made. Tu and Kat are excellent teachers and a lot of fun.
[edit]Thai Language
AUA [64]
How to Learn Thai [65] tel. 081-441-8061 [66] 41 เจ็ร�ญส�ข, ตุ. ชี�างเผื อก อ. เม่ อง, เชี�ยงใหม่m 50300,
Thailand, offers individual tutoring and 1-4 student custom-tailored Thai language courses
Payap University [67]
YMCA [68]
Study Thai Chiang Mai [69]
[edit]Thai Massage
Thai Massage School of Chiang Mai (TMC) [70] is a Thai government-registered to teach Thai
massage.
Green Bamboo Massage - Chiang Mai,1/1 Moon Muang Rd.,Soi 1, phone=0898275563, [71].
Offers individual daily or weekly courses in Traditional Thai Massage, Thai Yoga Massage, Tok
Sen Massage and Thai Oil Massage. Seminars are run by Ms. Mesa, a certified and experienced
expert in this art.
Viang Ping Massage & Spa Tel 053874071 2/4 Thapae Road, soi 2. Opposite Wat Bupparam.
Thai, & oil massage courses , also Spa courses. all courses run by Fern are individual or
occasionally to small groups of friends.
[edit]Tai Chi and Qi Gong
Green Dragon Tai Chi Center and personal training - Chiang Mai,459/4 Nong Hoi,50 000
Chiang Mai, behind the Nong Hoi Market, two Minutes from the Holiday Inn Riverside,
phone=+66856245776,email="[email protected]". Run by Kruh Alexander, holder
of a master`s degree in sport sience, licened trainer for Tai Chi and Qi Gong, heart sports and
fitness sports. Offers customized weekend courses for health and relaxation, especially for
beginners, in Tai Chi Qi Gong the 18 Movements, the 8 brocates / Shaolin style, 24 Yang Form,
108 Yang Form old frame, Inner Qi Gong after grandmaster Zhi-Chang-Li and standing meditation
after grandmaster Frankie Dow (Chan Kwaan Chung).
[edit][add listing]Buy
Chiang Mai is a great place to shop. Sprawling markets during the day and night carry items from
cheap trinkets to skilfully made local craft. ATM's can be found all around, but all charge 150 baht to
foreigners, except for Aeon. Their most convenient ATM's can be found at Central Plaza Chiang Mai
Airport on 3rd floor, and at Tesco Lotus north of old town at the superhighway, ground floor.
[edit]Individual stores
Mengrai Kilns, 79/2 Arak Rd, Samlan 6, ([email protected]), [72]. +66 53 272063. Celadon
green-glazed ceramics. Sift through their pile of rejects in the covered area to the right of store
and find something interesting for 20 baht. 20-500 baht. edit
Nok 'Em Ded Designs, 162/5 Prapokklao Rd, Prasingh, Muang (From Thapae Gate, go straight
on Rachadamnoen Rd, turn left at 2nd intersection. Shop is on left opposite Wat Puntao & Wat
Chedi Luang.), ☎ +66 (0)53 280 960, +66 (0)87 034 4067 ([email protected]), [73]. M Noon-
8PM, Tu-Sa 10AM-8PM, Su 10AM-11PM.
Unique styles from simple to extravagant. English speaking owners & staff. Jewellery is
handmade by the artist owners. Great quality t-shirt collection too from 50 baht. edit
[edit]Malls
Modern shopping malls sell have all the usual big brand products, though it might be worth
investigating for electronic good as the prices can be negotiated down to a bargain.
Central Plaza Chiang Mai Airport (เซ็�นทร�ล แอร%พอร%ตุ พลาซ็า), Corner Thipanet Rd and Mahidon
Rd. About half a mile from the airport is a somewhat adventurous walk from the terminal. It has
several floors, with a food court, banks/ATM's and multi-screen theater. It also has a Cultural
Center attached selling many crafts, a large food market and an extensive selection of Thai
ready-to-eat stalls in the basement. edit
Kad Suan Keaw, Corner Huay Kaew Rd and Bunreuangrit Rd. Has many decent shops,
restaurants and banks/ATMs. edit
[edit]Markets
Night Bazaar, Chang Khlan Rd (between Tha Phae Rd and Si Donchai Rd). 5PM-11PM. A huge
outdoor market stretching along both sides of the road with theNight Bazaar Building at the
centre of the maelstrom. It can take a concerted effort to find something interesting among the
near identical stalls selling tourist orientated trinkets, t-shirts and pirated gear. You rarely will see
Thai people shopping here. edit
Sunday Walking Market, Rajdumnern Rd (From the inner-east side of Tapae Gate). Su 4PM-
11PM. The street is blocked off to traffic for local craft vendors to layout their handmade
wares. edit
Saturday Walking Market, Wualai Rd. Sa 5PM-11PM. In the old silver working district, it's a
smaller version of the Sunday market with most of the same vendors. edit
Warorot Market (กาดหลวง / Kad Luang), Thapae Rd and Chang Moi Rd. 7AM-5PM. This
sprawling indoor market is where the locals shop and is worth a visit to look over the plethora of
fabrics, spices, tea and dried fruit piled up along the aisles. Across the road is a flower and fruit
market and out-of-this-world fireworks stands. At night the street is packed with snack stalls. edit
[edit]Ware Factories
Along route 1006 (Charoen Muang Rd.) just past the Superhighway (route 11) are various factories
offering tours on how the wares are made and showrooms. Silverware, silk, furniture and brass items
generally priced with the cashed up tourist in mind, but the tours might be worth a look to see how
things are made. They are generally open during typical day time hours.
[edit][add listing]Eat
A bowl of Chiang Mai's signature dish, Khao Soi Kai, with pickled cabbage and lime to add to taste
Chiang Mai's restaurants offer a wide range of food, second only to Bangkok. Naturally it's a good
place to sample northern Thai food: in particular, hunt down some khao soi, yellow wheat noodles in
curry broth traditionally with chicken (kai) or beef (neua), but available some places as vegetarian or
with seafood. Another local speciality is hang ley, Lanna-style pork curry. For those tired of eating rice
or noodles there's also a wide range of excellent international food restaurants, from cheap
hamburger stands to elaborate Italian eateries.
When you come to Chiang Mai you should try a Khantoke dinner and show. Although these are just
for tourists it is still a nice way to spend an evening. The first Khantoke dinner was held in 1953 by
Prof Kraisi Nimanhemin who wanted to host a special event for 2 friends leaving Chiang Mai, 2 others
were held both in 1953 and thus "Khantoke" dinners are not "authentic" but a relatively recent
invention. Khantoke literally means Small bowl, low table (Khan = small bowl. Tok = low level table)
There are also many garden restaurants where you can enjoy an excellent Thai meal in a beautiful
setting.
The range and value of western food in Chiang Mai is unsurpassed in Northern Thailand and there is
a full range of restaurants from Australian/British/Irish, through French and German to Italian,
Spanish, American and Mexican. In fact considering how remote Chiang Mai is from the major centres
of population in Asia, it is remarkable how many Western restaurants there are! this is one city where
eating Thai is not the only option.
Gogi Jib Stone Grill Barbecue (Korean BBQ), 29/3 Kotchasarn Rd (Right outside Thapae
Gate), ☎ 0844541943, [74]. 12pm-11pm. Modern and friendly Korean barbecue spot offering
high quality beef and pork as well as other Korean traditional dishes. But, not your Korean
grandmother's place, with great artwork on the colorful walls and groovy tunes floating over
conversation. The staff are very attentive and the owners are right there to give a quick Korean
lesson. 295 baht and up. edit
Harrad's Cafe: Proper English Food & Thai Specials, Nantharam Rd (Right next to Saturday
Walking Street and Chiang Mai Gate), ☎ 089 700 5697, [75]. 10 AM - 9 PM. This place serves
some of the best Khao Soi and English Pies. Not your typical roadside Thai restaurant, Harrad's
not only has some of the best English and Thai food in Chiang Mai but is more affordable than
other places. The staff give you free water and make you feel comfortable. It's a great break from
the Saturday Walking Street market and is also right across the street from Chiang Mai
Gate. mains 40-50 baht. edit
[edit]Thai
[edit]Markets & roadside stalls
Transient groups of roadside stalls set up in the evening selling basic but good Thai food that may
well be the most authentic you will find.
Anusarn Market, Chang Khlan Road. Is a busy outdoor night market with lots of little Thai, Indian
and Western restaurants and food vendors. Great atmosphere. edit
Kalare Food Centre, Chang Khlan Rd (opposite the Night Bazaar Building). 5PM-10PM. Has a
large open-air food court, featuring free Thai classical dance performances nightly. All food is paid
for with pre-purchased coupons. mains 20-50 baht. edit
Suthep Road outdoor eating, (Past Canal Road, by the University). Dozens of food carts set up
every evening around from around 17:00 until about 22:00, with a huge variety of very
inexpensive food, and tables set up along the sidewalk. edit
[edit]Budget
Funkydog Cafe, Moonmuang Rd, Soi 6. Local handmade coffee from a local hill tribe. Fantastic
Thai family cooking. All fresh and made by hand, great atmosphere and music, low cost food.
Genuine owner who will keep you informed of all the natural products you should eat. The yellow
curry is recommended. edit
Kuaytiaw Reua Koliang, Moon Muang Road (Near Ratchamankha Rd; no English sign). Serves
authentic kuaytiow reua (literally "boat noodles", rice noodles in dark broth with beef). It's good
stuff anyway. 25 baht. edit
Muan Baan, Moon Muang, Soi 7. A variety of Thai meals, for breakfast and lunch. The food is
excellent and the owners and staff are very pleasant and helpful. edit
Ratana’s Kitchen, Tha Pae Rd. Popular for its wide range of Thai dishes and a huge vegetarian
selection. 30-60 baht. edit
Re-Feel Café, 48/4-5 Rachavithi Rd. Offers great Thai food, good atmosphere, friendly staff and
free billiards. edit
Sailomjoy Restaurant, 7 Rachadamnoen Rd (near Tha Phae Gate). Daily 7:30AM-
4PM.. delicious food (Thai, Western and vegetarian), friendly service, and simple and relaxed
atmosphere. edit
Kanjana restaurant, (lat/long 18,788566, 98,990212). delicious food at really low price, friendly
staff. edit
[edit]Mid range
Ghekko Garden Bar and Restaurant, (Located opposite the Imperial Mae Ping
Hotel.). Highlights are lemongrass beef and sundried beef. Their chilli crab is also worth a try.
Enquire at the bar blackboard to daily specials. edit
Huen Phen, 112 Ratchamankha Rd. daily 8AM-3PM & 5PM-10PM.. Specialises in Northern Thai
food, and is popular with Thais and foreigners alike. Lunch in the air-conditioned hall is decent
enough, but dinner in the profusely decorated old house in the back is little short of magical. Best
of all is the price: a bowl of Khanom jiin naam ngiaw (Shan-style pork rib noodles), a plate of som
tum (green papaya salad) and some sticky rice will still leave you change from 100 baht! edit
Ob Luang. daily 10AM-2PM and 5PM-12AM.. Serves genuine Thai-Chinese cuisine in a
secluded garden setting directly on the Ping River. edit
Sila Aat, (on the southern edge of the Kalare Market). daily 3PM-12PM. Fresh seafood and a
wide selection of Thai and Northern/Lanna specialties. Operated by two sisters. edit
[edit]Splurge
Galae Garden Restaurant, (at the end of Suthep Road), ☎ +66 53 278655. Thai & Northern
Thai food and grilled specialties in delightful outdoors. edit
Khum Khantoke, (in Chiang Mai Business Park), ☎ +66 53 304121. daily 7PM-
10PM. Traditional North Thailand Cuisine. Reservations are a good idea to get a good seat. All
you can eat 350 baht. edit
Old Chiang Mai Culture Center, 185/3 Wualai Rd, ☎ +66 53 275097. daily 7PM-9:30PM. The
first commercial Khantoke Dinner in Chiang Mai more than 30 years ago. They have the best
Northern Thai food of any of the Kantoke establishments however the seating, show and music
are not as good as others. edit
[edit]Western
[edit]Budget
Mike's Hamburger Stand, corner Chaiyapoom Rd and Chang Mai Rd. Brightly-lit, old-
school joints - just stools and a counter in an open shop. edit
Woody's Fine Fast Food, 56 Chaiyapoom Rd (next to 7/11 near Spicy nightclub). 5PM-
late. Kebabs (Gyros), Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Falafel, Chips (Fries), Beer, Liquor and Soft Drinks.
Free wi-fi. Stays open after most restaurants have closed. edit
SoupaSteak, 26/5-6 Huaykeaw Rd. (opposite Shell gas station on the way to Doi
Suthep), ☎ 053215010. Budget pork and chicken steaks. edit
[edit]Mid range
Mong Pearl Cafe, Huay Kaew Rd (Coming from the old city: 300m after the ring road (Hwy 121),
on your right), ([email protected]). 8 till 8. A favourite with Westerners because of the
great service, good English, nice aesthetics and delicious food and drinks. edit
Amazing Sandwich, 20/2 Huay Kaew Rd, [76]. M-Sa 8AM-10PM, Su 8Am-4PM. Choose any of
the ingredients on their list and they'll build a sandwich for you exactly how you like it. They also
serve breakfasts and have bagels. edit
Chiangmai Saloon, 30 Ratchawithi Rd, ☎ +66 08 1930 2212, [77]. American-styled burger and
Southwest steakhouse, friendly staff, nice atmosphere, music videos and sports on three 10 foot
screens, pool tables and free internet, free popcorn and peanuts, over 50 kinds of margaritas,
Chang beer on tap, kitchen open from breakfast until late, everyday. Another outlet at 80/1 Loi
Kroh Rd. edit
El Toro Restaurant & Pub, 5/2 Loi Kroh Rd. New Mexico style Mexican food prepared by
experienced cook. Free food 5PM-7PM every Friday. edit
La Fourchette. Authentic French restaurant in the center of the old city (across from Wat Chedi
Luang). Large selection of imported meats and wines at affordable prices. Romantic open-air
seating area with upstairs art gallery. Open Monday to Saturday, 6PM to 11PM. edit
O'Malley's Irish Restaurant, 149-14/15 Changklan Rd, ☎ +66 53 271921. International cuisine
and Guinness on tap. edit
Red Lion English Pub & Restaurant, Loi Kroh Rd, ☎ +66 53 818847, [78]. International and
Thai food. All the pub favourites like Bangers 'n' Mash and Fish 'n' Chips as well as Steaks, Pies
and Pasta. Draught Guinness Heineken and Tetley's Bitter. edit
The Dukes, 49/4-5 Chiang Mai-Lumpoon Road (South of the Narawat bridge), ☎ +66 53
249231. Excellent American style dishes and desserts - ribs, burgers, pizza, cheesecake, etc. Full
bar with local and imported beers and wines. Great family atmosphere, no loud music or
entertainment, just good food. edit
The Olde Bell: British Pub, Loi Kroh Rd, ☎ +66 53 275948, [79]. Modern British cuisine and
Indian Curries are served up by attractive bar staff. British and Continental Cheese boards are a
speciality of the house. Traditional British Pub Atmosphere: A wide range of beers, ciders and
wines are kept in the well stocked bar. edit
[edit]Splurge
Alois Bavarian Restaurant, Phrapoklao Rd, Soi 8, ☎ +66 53 278515. Tu-Su, 11:30AM-
11PM. Authentic Bavarian specialities. edit
Arcobaleno Italian Restaurant, 60 Keaw Nawarat Rd, Soi 1 (In front of Watket
Temple), ☎ ''+66 53''-306254, [80]. Open for lunch & dinner with a range of traditional Italian
soup, pasta, antipasti, meat and vegetarian dishes. edit
Fillmore East Bar & Grill, Charernrasd Rd, ☎ +66 53 262416. CLOSED since 2006. Delicious
USDA Beef, lamb, veal, chops, burgers. Excellent homemade deserts such as pecan, pumpkin
and apple pie with large choice of toppings. edit
Piccola Roma Palace Italian Restaurant, corner of Charoenprathet Rd & Sri Donchai
Rd, ☎ +66 53 820297. Open lunch & dinner amid beautiful surroundings. Serving residents over
15 years. edit
The House, 199 Moonmuang Rd, ☎ +66 53 419011. 6PM-late. Old 1930's colonial style house
in town center. Pacific rim & fusion food edit
[edit]Japanese
Kanson Sushi Bar, Kotchasan Rd, Soi 1. A little hidden in a side street but visible from the main
road near Tapae Gate. Delicious and very good value for money (250 baht will fill you) edit
Fuji, Central Airport Plaza. While perhaps not a special restaurant in that it is not unique to
Chiang Mai (it's actually a large chain) for those seeking reasonably priced Japanese food Fuji is
a must. Expect to pay 120 baht and up for each dish (for instance a single sushi roll), however
there are several spectacular sets that offer great "bang for your buck", for instance the Fuji
Sashimi Set which can easily fill a sushi lover for 190 baht. Another outlet in branch Panthip
Plaza. edit
Gigantea, 300 Chang Moi Rd, ☎ +61 53 233464. daily 11AM-2PM, 5PM-10PM. Owned and
managed by a cute Japanese-Thai husband and wife team, this restaurant is known as the best
Japanese restaurant among Japanese residents in Chiang Mai. Although the menu is limited,
ingredients are always fresh, cooking and presentation are excellent. Lunch is best value for
money, with sets costing around 140-200 baht. edit
[edit]Korean
Gogi Jib Stone Grill Barbecue (Korean BBQ), 29/3 Kotchasarn Rd (Right outside Thapae
Gate), ☎ 0844541943, [81]. 12pm-11pm. Modern and friendly Korean barbecue spot offering
high quality beef and pork as well as other Korean traditional dishes. But, not your Korean
grandmother's place, with great artwork on the colorful walls and groovy tunes floating over
conversation. The staff are very attentive and the owners are right there to give a quick Korean
lesson. 295 baht and up includes unlimited side dishes. edit
[edit]Vegetarian
It can be hard to find strictly vegetarian food in Chiang Mai, as fish and oyster sauce are used
frequently, and the local Buddist monks themselves often eat fish. (Thus, asking for your dish to be
prepared "like the monks," which works in other places, does not get the same results in Chiang Mai.)
There are a few completely vegetarian options, however.
Blue Diamond, Muan Muang Rd, Soi 9. M-Sa 8AM-9PM. Thai and Western, huge selection of
items for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Great salads, fruits, juices, noodle dishes, bakery, good
breads. edit
Khun Churn, Nimmanhemin Rd, Soi 15, ☎ +66 53 224124. daily 9:30AM-10PM. Thai
vegetarian. A lunch buffet is available every day from 11AM-2:30PM for 129baht. Closes at
2:30PM on the 16th of every month. edit
Taste from Heaven, 237 Thapae Rd, ☎ +66 53 208803. Thai vegetarian with vegan options.
Owned by a friendly English ex-pat, this restaurant offers curries and noodle dishes in a
comfortable and clean setting, with both indoor and garden seating. edit
Pun Pun Vegetarian Restaurant, Wat Suan Dok temple, Suthep Road, Chiang Mai (Restaurant
is located inside the temple compound behind the monk chat building in an outdoor courtyard with
a large boddhi tree and tables with umbrellas.), ☎ +66 86 101850. 9:00AM - 3:00PM; closed
Wednesday. Thai vegetarian with organic ingredients from local farmers and many vegan-friendly
options. Run by a local self-reliance and seed-saving centre outside the city. edit
Aum, 65 Moonmuang Road/Mun Mueang Road, Chiang Mai (Just inside Thaphae gate.), ☎ +66
053-278315, [82]. 8.30-14.30, 17.00-21.00; closed on the 1st and 2nd of each month. Best Khao
Soi in town! She makes a mushroom stock from scratch with barely any sugar-unlike other
places. No MSG. Interesting yet relaxed interior with shelves of books and a cozy upstairs
area. edit
[edit][add listing]Drink
(See note about tap water under "Stay Safe" below)
Chiang Mai's nightlife scene is the most happening in the North, although still a far cry from Bangkok's
hot spots, this guide will show where you can hangout, meet some of the most beautiful girls in
Thailand, get outrageous or do whatever takes your fancy. There are discos, karaoke bars, and live
music everywhere. The busiest nightlife zones are near Tapae Gate, Loi Kroh Road and
along Charoenrat Road on the eastern bank of the Ping River.
[edit]Bars and pubs
Many, but by no means all of Chiang Mai's tourist oriented bars and pubs are located along Loi
Kroh Road where in addition to the street bars, a large Beer Bar Centre can be found at the Night
Bazaar end of Loi Kroh. Here you will find around 30 bars ranging from sports bars that feature big
screens to watch sports and play pool, to Pattaya-style girlie "beer bars", to even bars staffed
exclusively by kathoeys (ladyboys), the choice is yours. The centre also features a Muay Thai boxing
ring that has exhibition bouts for free or a voluntary donation, and on Thursdays real competition
boxing that requires a small entrance fee unless your bar has provided you with complimentary
viewing. And for extra fun, the ocaasional westerner tries his hands/feet/knees/elbows - usually with
hilarious results.
Also take a stroll along Moon Muang Road and its side sois. Here you can find small expat hangouts,
go-go bars and sports bars. Most have pool tables and hostesses, along with music videos or various
TV sport programmes. Be aware despite their charm and friendliness, the pressure to purchase lady
drinks can end up with a very surprising "check bin" (tab) at the end of the night. A few of those similar
bars recommended by expats are:
The Writers Club. 141/3 Rachadamnern Road. 053 - 814187, 053 - 814187. On Rajchadamnern
Road, about 2 ks into the old city from Thaphae Gate. This is an old-fashioned bar and restaurant
for Southeast Asia's community of authors, journalists and screenwriters - though everyone's
welcome. A good, informal source of information about Southeast Asia - this is where the some of
those writing guide books gather."
Next Place, On Moonmuang Road, on the inside of the moat right near Thaphae Gate. No
pressure to buy lady drinks, free pool for customers and friendly staff. .[83]
So Cool, with cheap prices and, as the name suggests, a very cool atmosphere, this bar is sure
to satisfy. The decor is excellent .
2gether Bar,now at Chaiya Phum soi 1 opposite Tuskers Bar and Restaurant, [84]. Very
reasonable prices 20-30% less than others in the Loi Kroh neighbourhood, and no pushy "Lady
Drink" ripoffs here. The hostess is the charming Mai, there is a free pool table but don't expect an
easy game if she is playing.
Crank Tavern, Bottom of Ratchapakinai Road (Near Chiang Mai Gate) +66 819 527699, [85] is a
beautifully recycled wood furnished bar with free Internet and friendly staff. Good pub food, and is
a great place to have a meal and spend a relaxing evening. Also home of Crank Adventures (see
above) for excellent mountain bike tours and bike hire.
Half Moon Pub, Soi 2 Moonmuang (around the corner from Topnorth Guesthouse), +66 853
205023, [86]. Open 10AM till late, late. Sports bar with many regulars and tourists. Darts & pool
area, big TV, really nice international cuisine, especially the burgers but also good Thai & Indian
dishes. Excellent (can be loud) music, friendly atmosphere and beautiful women.
Kat Bar, Loi Kroh in the Beer Bar Centre - hosted by the feisty and effervescent Jane who always
has a great selection of music of your choice played as loud as you like, together with free pool
and a wonderful group of really friendly girls to ease your shyness. Always a great favourite as it
does not have girls of the "pushy - buy me a drink" type but the quality service always ensures
their welcome visitors want to come on back.
Dragonfly Bar, 8/1 Loi Kroh Road - One of the smaller bars at the top of Loi Kroh but also one of
the most cosy. What really make this place stand out is the friendly staff and the fact that this bar
has two floors so you can get away from the bustle of street level and enjoy the relaxed
atmosphere from the balcony.Dragonfly Bar Chiang Mai
Number One, Loi Kroh Road Soi 1 - friendly bar with free Internet and pool table. Plenty of
talkative expats and pretty hostesses. The hostesses are not allowed by the management to ask
customers for lady drinks (however, they'll be glad to accept one, if you do offer yourself), but
they're still friendly even if you won't buy. Multiple large TV screens (mainly sport or news
translations), food is also available, as well as Belgian beers (from 150 baht). Free wi-fi.
Sportsbar@ChiangMai, Changklan Rd. 100/1 (The Plaza 4th floor, Night Bazaar), +66 53 235
771, [87]. Open daily 11:30-02:00, Nice and clean bar with excellent food and drinks. Thai and
western kitchen, many draughts and cocktails. 22 flatscreens and 1 beamer to watch the sport
action from 16 different channels simultaneously. Nice view over the Night Bazaar. Parking place
available.
There are also some bars with a different atmosphere:
Café Souvannaphoum, 20/1 Ratchamankha Road, (near Moon Muang) +66 53 903-781. A
decent wine bar with comfortable seating and relaxing music, great escape from the busy street
life, open M-Sa: 17:00 - 01:00.
Chiangmai Saloon [88], Two locations: 80/1 Loi Kroh Rd., 150m from Night Bazaar, +66 08-0675
2169, and 30 Ratchawithi Rd., inside the moat, +66 08-1930 2212. American-styled burger and
Southwest steakhouse, friendly staff, nice atmosphere, big screen music videos and sporting
events, pool tables and free internet, free popcorn and peanuts, over 50 kinds of margaritas,
Chang beer on draft, kitchen open from breakfast until late, everyday.
The Pub 189 Huay Kaew Road (near Amiri Rincome Hotel) +66 53-211550, [89]. long established
English-style pub, has had a makeover and extended the bar and the restaurant but kept its
charm. Great selection of food and drinks, including roast dinners on Sundays. Has an outside
area where you can sit and enjoy the tranquility of a tropical garden, and has recently added
bungalows for those wishing to linger longer.
The Red Lion English Pub:[90] A great location in the heart of the famous Night Bazaar, just
past McDonald's and Burger King. Draught Guinness, Heineken and Tetley's bitter. Imported
ciders as well as Belgian and German beers. Pub favourites including Fish n Chips, Steak &
kidney pie as well as Thai food. Menu in 7 languages including Japanese. A great place to relax
after shopping in the Night Bazaar. Live sports on big screen including Premier League Football,
Aussie Rules, Rugby and Formula 1.The Red Lion is also the Unofficial home of The Chiang Mai
FC Expats supporters club. They meet at 4pm at the pub on match days. Visitors welcome.
The Olde Bell: British Pub and Ex-Services Club[91]. on Loi Kroh Rd (next to the Raming
Lodge Hotel and behind the Bank of Ayuthaya foreign exchange booth) in the heart of Chiang
Mai's entertainment district, within walking distance of most hotels. Draught beers including
Heineken, Guinness and Tiger, ciders including Dry Blackthorn and Olde English and a good wine
selection as well as great British & Australian food. Open from 10.00a.m. for British and
Continental Breakfasts.Monday night is Irish night with various themed promotions including
cheap Guinness, Tuesday is Quiz Night & Thursday Beatles Night. At the weekend live sports are
shown including English football, Rugby, Formula 1, Golf, Tennis and A.F.L. Aussie Rules. A pool
table and dart board are available. The Olde Bell is the Chiang Mai home of The Royal British
Legion and members are entitled to discounts.
West of the city centre, the area around Nimmanhaemin Road is a popular hangout for younger
Thais, perhaps due to its proximity to Chiang Mai University. The pubs tend to straddle a fine line
between bar, restaurant and nightclub, and feature loud music interspersed with live bands fronted by
musicians who are most likely hitting the books in the daytime. Tourists looking for something racier
are better off staying in the east side of town. Little English is spoken in this part of town - however,
little doesn't mean none, and the staff of many bars, being students, still can understand what do you
want, or even sometimes can speak reasonably well.
BangRak, Nimmanhaemin Road Soi 6 - hangout spot for a primarily student crowd. Weekend
nights are standing-room only and the clubbing atmosphere is complete; weekday nights are a
little slower. Well air-conditioned, and no entrance charge but you'll be expected to purchase
some drinks. Open 18:00-01:00.
Mo'C Mo'L, Huay Kaew Road - pub and restaurant near Chiang Mai University, there are many
zone in the restaurant: coffee shop, dining outdoor near the small pond, dining indoor with live
music.
Monkey Club, Nimminheimin Road Soi 9 +66 53-226997 -8 - another hot spot for the students
and 20-somethings, with a variety of live music. Open 17:00-01:00.
Simmbar - decent prices and good crowd. very nice staff.
Warm Up Bar This chain bar / restuarnt / club has several venues in Thailand. The venue in
Chang Mai is a lot less touristy and the dancehall packed to the brim of Thai students.
Many smaller (usually no live music, but have TV, generally with football or some other sports)
roadside Thai bars around this area, but outside of more up-market Nimmanhaemin Rd., being cheap
(50 to 65 baht for a large Chang or Leo is common), often have a discount if you buy 3 bottles of their
favourite beer at once, with price of 129, 119 or even 109 baht for all three. The posters about those
"promotions", if any, are in Thai language only - if you can't read, look for the numbers mentioned
above, and, if in doubt, ask the staff. Often (if they can speak enough English) the staff will tell you
about this offer themselves, if they have one. Expats sometimes can be seen in those small bars, but
generally most of the customers are Thais.
[edit]Live music
The area along the east bank of the Mae Ping River on Charoenrat Road is famous for jazz, rock,
pop, Thai and country and western live music, along with restaurants serving Thai, western, and
Chinese food. Coming from the center of the city, just walk from the night bazaar across the Narawatt
Bridge, from where all the restaurants can be seen along the river on the left.
Most bands in Chiang Mai play for about an hour, and then move on to do the same at another
restaurant or pub, so don't be surprised to see the same band twice if you switch venues.
Took playing at his club, La Brasserie, on the River Ping.
La Brasserie, 37 Charoenrat Road +66 53-241665 - One of Asia's premier nightspots for live
music fans, with the guitar maestro Took taking centre-stage from 11 or 12 till 1 or so. Blues fans
come from around the world to hear Took play. He also does sublime covers of Dylan, Hendrix,
Marley, Stevie Ray and others. There's a good selection of cocktails and spirits. The restaurant
outside faces onto the river, and is a great place to eat prior to savoring the late night music feast
inside.
Tha Chang Jazz Club, 25 Charoenrat Road (next to Gallery Restaurant) +66 53-248601 - good
for a drink any day, but best visited on Saturdays for live jazz.
The Bridge Bar, Nimmanhaemin, Soi 11, 081-595-0678. Open every night till one o’clock. Live
music every night – except Monday: Brit Pop, Rock, Thai Music. Mostly Thais go to this bar but
you will as well get to see some expatriats, Age: 22-32. Service is excellent and if you happen to
go there by yourself, there will for sure someone come up to talk to you. The menu includes
delicious cocktails - „Mango Kiss“, „Velvet“! -, cheap beer & sangsom (=Thai whisky) as well as
Snacks. The outside sitting area is perfect if u want to talk & understand the others ;)
The Chiang Mai Riverside Restaurant, 9-11 Charoenrat Road +66 53-243239 [92]. The live
music starts around 19:00 with dinner music from the Eagles, Beatles, or soft jazz. Starting at
21:00, the music changes to more rock and pop songs. Full bar service serving wine, beer, and
spirits are available. The restaurant gets very crowded, so get here early to get a table. The
Riverside also offers a nightly dinner cruise departing at 20:00 for 110 baht/person extra.
The Good View, 13 Charoenrat Road +66 53-241886, [93]. Thai and western varieties of rock,
jazz, pop and country music entertain in the evening. Their extensive menu offers more than 150
Thai, Chinese, and western dishes, including curries, noodles, rice, and pizza. Soft drinks and a
full bar serving wine, beer, and spirits are available. Again, if you want a good, riverside-view
table get there early.
The North Gate Jazz Collective, inside the city moat and east of Chang Puak Gate, [94]. The
North Gate has easily become one of the most popular, regular destinations for Chiang Mai's
young ex pat community. With nightly jazz performances starting around 9:30 PM with different
performers and occasional guests from the audience, the North Gate offers something unique to
the often repetitious Chiang Mai live music scene. Mixed bag in terms of quality, sometimes great
sometimes mediocre. In addition to nightly music performed by true lovers and technicians of
jazz, the North Gate offers a variety of drinks not normally found within Chiang Mai- notably red
and white wine, mojitos, and other mixed drinks. The staff is quick and efficient and prices are
reasonable.
[edit]Nightclubs
Hot Shots at Pornping Tower Hotel - a 'Thai' place with live music most nights, reasonable drink
prices and no cover charge for foreigners or locals.
Discovery - opposite Kad Suan Kaew shopping centre and Lotus Pang Suan Kaew Hotel. Is a
small club with live band, DJ and huge screens showing music videos, good for drinking nights
and letting loose. Bring ID/passport as they can be strict with entry especially on weekend nights.
Spicy is a hectic after hours place with good drinks, dancing and lots of girls looking to party - be
warned, they almost always ask for money. Also be warned of the washroom staff who will
provide you with an invigorating massage whilst you are washing your hands or worse when you
are at the urinal and then ask for a tip. A place for farang men to pick up prostitutes.
Mandalay has a younger Thai crowd. Foreigners pay a cover charge - which locals don't.
However, even overseas Asians seem to get in for free - so it's more racism than double-tiered
pricing. The manager doesn't seek Western tourist business, but if you don't mind dual pricing,
this is a great insight into the world of young Thais at play! This may be true but every local
person will tell you that this is only a gay bar.
Team Club Martini is Chiang Mai's premier party and electronic music promoters. Team Club
Martini strives to bring in top DJ talents, both Thai and International, and showcase them in
concert-like events which draw in big crowds of locals, expats and travelers. Check their party
schedule on the website to see if you are in town for one of their events.
[edit]Gay bars
Chiang Mai is a popular destination for gay tourists and many gay people have retired here. Highlights
of the vibrant gay scene include:
Glass Onion, Room 1 project, 61, Nimmanhaemin Rd, ☎ +66 53 218479. Sophisticated wine
bar popular with the gay community edit
Golden Ball (Bon Tong), corner of Tewan Rd and Santitham Rd, ☎ +66 53
406043, [95]. Northern Thai style outdoor bar and restaurant. Local prices: Drinks start from 45
baht for a large Chang beer. Packed with very friendly staff and fun atmosphere. edit
Garden Bar & Restaurant, 2/25 Soi Viangbua, Chotana Rd, ☎ +66 53 215376. Outdoor garden
bar and restaurant serving Lebanese, Western and Thai food. Popular meeting place for gay ex-
pats and tourists. edit
[edit]Coffee
Chiang Mai has sprouted a thriving coffee culture, having an abundance of roadside stalls to
Starbucks-style chains seemingly every few meters. The dilettante baristas consistently squeeze out a
decent cup from their electric machines regardless of the price or opulence of their premises. A
standard Espresso or long black (Americano) is 30 baht, iced around 35 baht and upwards of 45 baht
for more elaborate milk and sprinkles.
@.ju Coffee, 52 Rajmunca Rd. Run by 'Oil', this little place has excellent espresso-based drinks,
free WIFI or ten minutes on the computer with your coffee. Very modern design; seating in the
front is open to the air while the back is air conditioned. Oil herself speaks excellent English and is
happy to give you the low down. edit
Wawee Coffee, Many locations around the city. Looks much like a Starbucks, but nice mugs if
you drink it there. Inside is well air-conditioned, outside is under a canopy (they mist water in the
heat of the afternoon). The staff pride themselves on their decorative drinks (look for the panda-
topped latte.) Internet available for small fee. edit
Bitter Swee, Huay Kaew Rd. The noisy location is made up for by the excellent espresso.
Internet is free, and the 'fishbowl' inside is both air conditioned and sound proofed against the
rush of traffic. edit
[edit][add listing]Sleep
Accommodation in Chiang Mai is generally cheap, even by Thai standards. All types of lodging are
available from inexpensive guest-houses with little or no service to the typical high rise hotels and
elaborate garden resorts. The latest boom is Thai-style boutique resorts located near the old city
center - several have been built since mid-2005, and offer excellent service in quiet garden settings;
most are fairly small with as few as 8 rooms and a pool, and are decorated with Thai crafts and
antiques.
Some of the cheapest accommodation may refuse guests who are not also booking a trekking
package. If so please remove them from wikitravel. Evenings in Chiang Mai are cooler than Bangkok
and the south during the dry season, so air conditioning may be less of a priority.
This guide uses the following price ranges
for a standard double room:
Budget less than 500 baht
Mid-range 500-1500 baht
Splurge over 1500 baht
[edit]Guesthouses and Boutique Hotels
[edit]Budget
Spicy House, 42/1 Rajchamanka Road. (Walk into the old city down Rajchadamnern from
Thapae Gate; turn left at Soi 4; walk almost all the way down to Rajchamanka.), ☎ +084 613
4776 (Mim).([email protected]). Perhaps the most friendly little guesthouse in Chiang Mai
- beloved by backpackers from everywhere for its low cost and friendly atmosphere. Mim, the
owner, gives a free meal for guests every night; she is also an expert chef, and Spicy House
serves as a cooking school sometimes. Spicy House is in the dead centre of the Chiang Mai
action, but down a quiet soi where you can withdraw from it when needed. Chilled. edit
7 Century, 270 Ratchaphakinai Road, Sripoom, Chiang Mai 50200, ☎ +66 53 287 541 and +66
81 43 88 175 ([email protected]). checkout:12.00. (Facebook). Newly
renovated guesthouse with 2 single (150 thb), 4 double (180-220 thb) and 1 triple rooms (250
thb). Hot shower (private for single rooms, shared for double and triple). Terrace. Free WiFi. If
they have a laptop free you may borrow it to your room(!). Fan in rooms. Kitchen free to use. Soft
beds. Service also available in well spoken German. Help with booking trips, trekks, motobikes
and other things. Friendly staff. 150-250 baht. edit
Giant Guest House 1 & 2, Giant 1, 24/1 Moon Muang Rd. T. Sriphum A. Mueng. Giant 24
Rachamankha Road, T. Prasingha A. Mueng., ☎ +66
871821611([email protected]), [96]. checkout: 12.00. Cheap basic rooms, hot
showers, free wifi, free shared computer, free bicycles, Reggae bar attached (Freedom Bar 4pm-
12am). Can book everything here and sightsee by Bicycle. Kitchen with cooking lessons available
and massage school 200 metres away 120 baht Dorms, 180 baht single fan room (shared bath),
250 baht Queen bed with fan (private bathroom). Monthly Rates 3500 baht, single room with fan
and shared bathroom (1 person). edit
A Little Bird Guesthouse, 17 Soi 1 Ratvithi Road, ☎ +66
53289577 ([email protected]), [97]. checkout: 12.00. Cheap basic dorms with hot
shower and free wifi. An easy place to meet other travelers on a good location. 100 baht mixed
dorm -120 baht female dorm. edit
Bed and Terrace Chiang Mai Guesthouse, 10 Kotchasarn Rd, Soi 5, ☎ +66 53 449-708 and
+66 838285599 ([email protected]), [98]. Thai modern style guesthouse with terrace,
comfortable rooms with double windows to see panoramic mountain view. 500 baht. edit
Green Tulip Guest House, 18 Samlan Rd, ☎ +66 53-278367, [99]. Guest house with a roof top
garden, Internet café and large screen TV in the lobby. Beautifully decorated and designed with
elegant wood floors throughout the building. Choice of fan and air-con rooms with shared or
private bathrooms. 250-650 baht. edit
Hollanda Montri Guesthouse, 365 Charoenrat Rd, ☎ +66 53 242450, [100]. Family style
guesthouse fan or air-con rooms and with a tropical garden on the banks of the Mae Ping
River. 500 baht.. edit
Julie Guesthouse, 7/1 Prapokklao Rd, Soi 5, ☎ +66 53 274355, [101]. Popular guesthouse
located in a quiet part of the Old City near Tha Phae Gate. This guesthouse is notorious for filling
quickly (quite often by 9AM), as it is listed in some guide books. The lounge area is often full of
travelers. Food and drinks are served. The in-house travel agency can do all sorts of bookings for
you. Free WiFi but it doesn't always work. from 100/180 baht (fan room without/with ensuite). edit
Lek Guesthouse, 22 Chaiyaphum Rd, ☎ +66 53 252686 ([email protected]), [102].
checkout: 12AM. All rooms have fan and private bathroom with hot water. Hidden in a quiet alley.
Free WiFi. s 250 baht, d 300 baht. edit
Parami Guesthouse, ☎ +66 53 266139, [103]. A small cosy family run guesthouse. Prices s/d
with fan 300/350 THB, twin/d with air-con 480/550. 300-550 baht. edit
Riders Corner (Rider's Corner Bar & Restaurant - Chiang Mai Bikers Hotel Thailand), 357, Moon
Muang Rd, ☎ +66 87 0481 787 ([email protected]),[104]. Rooms are newly
renovated, clean and comfortable. Hotel room rates are 350 – 600 THB. Full breakfast is
available. Locked parking for motorcycles is provided. 350-600 baht. edit
Siri Guesthouse, 31/3 Moon Mueang, Soi 5, ☎ +66 53 326550. A family run guesthouse on a
popular, but quiet lane. Fan and air-con rooms, all with bathrooms and hot water. Free Wi-Fi 700
Baht. edit
Ping River Inn, ☎ +81 9935187 ([email protected]). checkin: 15:00;
checkout: noon. An basic but clean inn along the Ping River near Nakorn Ping Bridge and the
yellow song tao route. Hot showers, two bottles of free drinking water, towels, roof access, cable,
and free Wi-Fi. If the foot bridge over the river ever gets fixed, the Ping River Inn will be within five
minutes walking distance of Warorot Market. 390-540 Baht. edit
Thapae Inn, 164-166 Thapae Road (about 400 metres east of the Thapae Gate on the north
side), ☎ 053 234640 (fax: 053 252790). Family run guesthouse. Friendly. Excellent
value/location combination. Basic double rooms with bathrooms, hot water & small TV. Free Wi-
Fi. Common area with tables so you can bring food and eat. Can buy refreshments. 200 Fan/300
Aircon. 200 - 300 Baht. edit
Peppermint Guesthouse. checkout: 12:00. Really nice and well kept hostel inside the city
walls. 250 - 450 Baht. edit
[edit]Mid-range
Boonthavon Apartment Hotel (Dead central, and probably the cleanest hotel in Chiang Mai.), 39
Soi 1, Rajchadamnern Road, Chiang Mai (Walk from Thapae Gate into the old city down
Rajchadamnern Road; turn right after 10 metres at Soi 1; follow it round (300m) till nearly the end;
Boonthavon is on your left.), ☎ +66 53 226 700 [email protected], [105]. Very friendly
staff, free wifi, security entrance, central to the old city. edit
Chiang Mai Apartment (very central, clean and bright rooms), 9/2 Boon Muang Road, Soi 7 A.
Muang, Chiang Mai 50200 (right across the Sri Pat Guesthouse, without any name sign), ☎ +66
53 22 51 40. Found this guesthouse when many others were full. Still excellent quality. Free WiFi
in room. 650 baht (fan)- 950 baht (aircon), both including a (modest) breakfast. edit
Cool guesthouse (Affordable and conveniently located in the old city), 87 Sripoom Rd - Sripoom
- Mueang Chiang Mai, close to Changpuak gate (Google Map Ref:
18.788169,98.835325), ☎ +66 53 21 26 18 [email protected], [106]. Cool guesthouse is
a small boutique guesthouse with patio and garden, free bicycle use for the guest. English,
French and Spanish speaking Staff. Each room has aircon and fan, cable TV, free WiFi, safe
box. 500-800 Baht. edit
Lai-Thai Guest House, 111/4-5 Kotchasarn Rd, ☎ +66 53 271725 or +66 53
206438 ([email protected]), [107]. A large northern Thai style guesthose with hotel-like facilities
and services. All 110 air-conditioned rooms en suit with hot shower are decorated with traditional
wooden floors and bamboo walls, equiped with minibar, cable & satellite TV and free Wi-Fi. 500-
780 baht. edit
Centre of the Universe (Chiangmai Swimming Pool and Resort), Near Chiangmai Zoo and
Aquarium (Google Map Ref: 18.8201,98.9584), ☎ +66 81 473 0746 or +66 53 327 808
[email protected], [108]. With only 3 detached Thai-style bungalows in a
private garden, this has to be the smallest boutique hotel with the biggest swimming pool in
Chiangmai. Very friendly and helpful staff. Each room has aircon, TV, WiFi, fridge, tea and coffee
making facilities and access to 3 swimming pools. 1200 - 1500 Baht. edit
Elliebum, 114/3-4 Rachamakka Rd, ☎ +66 53 814723 ([email protected]), [109]. Friendly
boutique guesthouse, beautifully furnished, spacious, spotlessly clean, air conditioned, en-suite
twin or double rooms. Breakfast included 1000-1400 baht. edit
Hub53, 53 Kan Klong Chon Pra Tan Rd, ☎ +66 89 1188810, [110]. Has seven air-con rooms
with wood furnishings, cable TV, coffee/tea maker, hair dryer, room safe, telephone, keycard
access, and refrigerator, a balcony, private toilet and bath with hot shower, free Wi-Fi Internet
connection, and a free English newspaper daily. 1100 baht. edit
Smile House Boutique, ☎ +66 53 800567-8, [111]. A ‘wooden’ house which is simply decorated
to create sense of simplicity that brings you an amazingly peaceful atmosphere. The rooms are
beautifully decorated 700-1200 baht. edit
Sri Pat Guesthouse, 16 Moon Muang Rd, Soi 7, ☎ +66 53 218716. Nice guesthouse with air
conditioning, TV, private shower, fridge and a little balcony. Try getting a room on the street side,
since the other side has a water pump working in the night which can be annoying in some
rooms. 900 baht. edit
Royal Peninsula Hotel, Assadatorn Rd, Northeast a few hundred metres from the corner of the
City Square to the north of ThaPae Gate. Good rooms, air-con, hot water, bar fridge and TV. 900
baht. edit
Viangbua Mansion, 3/1 Viangbua Rd, ☎ +66 53 411-202, [112]. Offers deluxe serviced
apartments for daily rental. Perhaps one of the most expensive housing options in the city but
they do offer a wide range of services and some degree of security. Located in a somewhat
remote northwest area of the city. 900 baht. edit
Sakulchai Place, Hueykaew Rd, Soi 10 - Plubplung T.Chainghueak District Muang, ☎ +66 53
211 982, [113]. Spacious and clean Standard, Deluxe and Superior rooms available for
daily/weekly/monthly rates. Internet (WiFi/LAN), air-con, Hot/Cold Shower. New building, modern
rooms. In trendy Nimmanhemin area across from shopping mall and 5-10 minute walking distance
to night life, cafes, restaurants, etc. edit
[edit]Splurge
Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel & Spa, 135/9, Charoenprathet Rd, ☎ +66 53
252999 ([email protected]), [114]. Hotel with a nice architecture with hand-carved
fretwork. over 4,200 baht. edit
Baan Orapin, 150 Charoenrat Road, ☎ +66 53 16164016, [115]. Only 6 rooms is in beautifully
restored old Thai house set in a small garden. Air-con, hot water.3000 baht. edit
Four Seasons Resort, ☎ +66 53-298181, [116]. In the tranquil countryside amid working paddy
fields and water buffalo. Spa and Thai cooking classes within its grounds over 20,000 baht. edit
Blue Diamond, Muan Muang Rd, Soi 9. For international style hotels good one edit
RatiLanna Riverside Spa Resort, 33 Chang Klan Road, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai, ☎ +66 (0)
53 999 333 ([email protected], fax: +66 (0) 53 999 332), [117]. A luxury boutique
resort nestled serenely along the bank of the Mae Ping River and center of Lanna historical city,
Chiang Mai only minutes away from the Chiang Mai Airport and the city's popular Chiang Mai
Night Bazaar. edit
[edit]Hotels
BP Chiang Mai City Hotel, 154 Ratchamankha Rd, ☎ +66 53 270-
711 ([email protected]), [118]. A mid-sized hotel with a small fitness centre and
pool. 1000-2000 baht. edit
Ban Shewe Wana Suite Resort, 290,292 Charoen Muang Rd, ☎ +66 53-240-
020 ([email protected]), [119]. Based at Shewe Wana. edit
The Castle, 8/3 Rajchiangsan Rd, Soi 2, ☎ +66 53 209-093, [120]. Upmarket looking place built
like a Spanish villa. 990-1200 baht. edit
Central Duangtawan Hotel, 132 Loi Kroh Rd, ☎ +66 53 905-
000 ([email protected]), [121]. Excellent four-star hotel with cheaper Internet rates. However the
Internet connection speed there is terribly slow. Probably a little cheaper than similar hotels as it's
in the red-light district, but the area seems quite safe and the hotel is of very high quality. 1,450-
2,950 baht. edit
Chedi Chiang Mai, 123-123/1 Charoen Prathet Rd, ☎ +66 53 253-333, [122]. A modern design
hotel on the grounds of the former British Consulate. 84 deluxe rooms and club suites, all with a
private courtyard it also features a fitness and health club, two bars, a restaurant featuring Thai,
Indian and Western cuisine, a spa and an outdoor swimming pool. from 10,400 baht. edit
Empress Chiang Mai, 199/42 Chang Klan Road, ☎ +66 53 253-
199 ([email protected], fax: +66 53 272467), [123]. Four-star luxury hotel in traditional
Lanna style with 375 rooms and suites, a convention center, sauna rooms, outdoor swimming
pool, business centre and massage parlour. Good breakfast and friendly staff. 1,500 - 5,500 baht.
edit
Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, 51/4 Chiang Mai - Sankampaeng Road Moo 1, ☎ +66 53 888-
888, [124]. In the traditional Lanna style, this resort includes a spa, cooking class, kids club and
fitness centre. The resort caused some local controversy when it built a 'fake' temple based on
one of Thailand's most holy sites in its grounds. edit
[edit]Stay safe
Tap water is generally not potable. Liquids from sealed bottles nearly always are, and should be used
wherever possible. Nearly all restaurants use ice made by professional ice-making companies and is
generally safe. There are street-side water dispensaries (1 THB per liter) throughout the city.
[edit]Crime
Chiang Mai, like most of Thailand, is quite safe, even at night. The dark streets can look forbidding but
crime is rare and visitors shouldn't worry unduly. As always, travellers should take extra care in all
poorly lit or more remote areas. Don't carry valuables in a bag after dark as the most common tourist
related crime here is bag-snatching by youths on motorbikes. Mind your bag especially if you are
walking on a dark street at night.
The safest approach is to act like your Thai hosts and wear reasonable clothing (shoulders and chest
covered)medium-length skirts, long shorts or long pants, speak in a moderate tone of voice, and avoid
flashing money or jewelry. Not only will respectable Thais appreciate your behavior, you are much
less likely to become a target of any criminal activity.
[edit]Scams
Unfortunately some scams from Bangkok have started to rear their ugly heads in Chiang Mai as well.
Two in particular are worth watching out for: the gem scam, where you are talked into buying near-
worthless gems at far above their real value; and the tuk-tuk scam, where a smooth-talking tuk tuk
driver tells you that the attraction you want to see is closed, and instead offers you a sightseeing tour
for 20 baht (or some similarly unrealistic number) - needless to say, the tour will either consist of
nothing but overpriced gift shops, or will smoothly segue into the gem scam. See the "Stay Safe"
section of the Bangkok article for more details.
[edit]Contact
[edit]Internet
Many guesthouses, hotels, cafes, shopping malls, and even swimming pools, offer WiFi connections.
These are usually free or available for a small charge. If you are traveling with your laptop you should
be able to connect to the Internet within a 500 metre radius of your Chiang Mai city-based
accommodation at little or no cost.
Internet cafes abound and can be found everywhere within the City. Prices vary from 10 baht/hour (in
"gaming" places filled with local kids) to 60 baht/half-hour (2 baht/minute) and up. Most places charge
per 15 or 30 minute block, others by the minute. The cheapest and most comfortable places with fast
connections, webcam, microphone and Skype, can be found along Huay Kaew Road near the main
entrance to Chiang Mai University, where the cost is 10-15 baht per hour.
Crank Tavern, 3/2 Ratchapakinai Rd. (Near Chiang Mai Gate). Internet is free if you by a drink.
They have fast ADSL equipped with Skype and you will be in comfortable surroundings. Also
good for bike hire and tours.
Buddy Internet, 12 Huaykaew Road (Northweast corner of the moat, opposite the Central
Department Store), Tel: 053 404 550. Open 08:00-midnight.
As everywhere in Thailand, GPRS/EDGE is a cheap and convenient option to access Internet if you
have a laptop and local SIM card. For more details, refer to theThailand article.
[edit]Post
Main Post Office''' - Charoenmuang Road. Tel: 053 241070, 053 245376.
Phra Sing Post Office - Singharat Road (a three-minute walk south of Wat Phra Singh)
Airport 24 hr Post Office-60 Moo 3, Airport Road, T Suthep, A Muang, Chiang Mai 50200. Tel:
053 277382.
Changphuak Post Office'-195/8-9, Changphuak Road, T Changphuak, A Muang, Chiang Mai
50300. Tel: 053 222483.
Changklan Post Office- 186-186/1, Changklan Road, A Muang, Chiang Mai 50100. Tel: 053
273657.
Maeping Post Office- 24 Praisanee Road, A Muang, Chiang Mai 50100. Tel: 053 252036-7.
[edit]Telephone
Directory enquiry service: 183/1133
International and domestic operator assisted service: 100
Overseas dial-out code: 001
AT&T International operator for collect calls: 001 999 11111
[edit]Emergency contacts
Police - emergencies: 191
Police - Tourist: 1155, 053-278559
Fire: 053-241777
Rescue Team: 053-218888
[edit]Embassies & consulates
Australia, 165 Sirimungklajarn, T. Suthep, A.Muang, +66 53-219726 or +66 53-400232 / +66
53-221083 (fax: +66 53-219726).
Bangladesh, 95 Huay Kaew Road, T. Suthep, A.Muang +66 53-53 212373 - 4 (fax+66 53-53
223524).
China, 111 Changlo Road, Haiya District, +66 53 -276125, 272197, 200424 (admin office)
(fax: +66 53-274614) [email protected].
Finland, 104-112 Thapae Road, +66 53-234777.
Germany, Consulate of the Federal Republic of Germany, 199/163 Moo 3, Baan Nai Fun2,
Kan Klong Chonpretan Road, Tambon MaeHia, tel+fax: +66 53-838735.
Great Britain, British Consulate, 198 Bumrungraj Roadm +66 53-263015 (fax: +66 53-
263016) [email protected] [125] .
India, 33/1, Thung Hotel Road, Wat Kate, Muang, Chiang Mai 50000 +66 53-243066
(fax: +66 53-247879) [126]
Italy, 19/1 Soi 9 Sirimangkalajarn, T. Suthep, A.Muang, +66 53-212925 (fax: +66 53-
224832). [127]
Japan, Airport Business Park, 90 Mahidol Rd. T.Haiya, A. Muang +66 53-203367 (fax: +66
53-203373)[128].
South Africa, 2nd Floor Chiang Inn Hotel, 100 Changklan Road, Amphor Muang +66 53-
270070-6 (fax: +66 53-274299 / mobile: +66-1 8412629).
South Korea, V Group Building, 3rd Floor, 50 Huay Kaew Road,Tambon Chang Puak,
Amphoe Mueang +66 5322-3119 Ext : 206,210 (fax: +66 53-22-5661).[129]
Sweden, Svenska Konsulatet i Chiang Mai, 11 Sermsuk Road, Mengrairasmi, +66 53-220844
(fax: +66 53-210877).
USA, American Consulate General, 387 Witchayanond Road, +66 53-252629 (fax: +66 53-
252633), [130].
[edit]Cope
[edit]Laundry
There are laundromats and laundry services all over town, but they all wash cold. There is a
laundromat that has 3 machines that can do hot washing as well on Chaiyapum Rd (road along the
moat from Si Phum corner to Tha Phae Gate) about half way between Sompet market and Tapae
Gate. Opposite there is a cafe from where you can watch your stuff while having a beer.
[edit]Get out
Chiang Dao - an hour north of the city, and a good starting point for treks into the mountains
Chiang Rai - a relaxed city 3 hours north, and a transit point on the way to the Golden
Triangle and Laos.
Doi Inthanon National Park - the highest peak in Thailand (2,565m), 60km southwest of Chiang
Mai
Lampang - urban Northern Thailand without the commercialism, 100km southeast of Chiang Mai
Lamphun - a scenic town with a long history and a longan festival, 26km southeast of Chiang Mai
Mae Hong Son - a picturesque little town with lush valleys, rocky streams and a small lake,
235km from Chiang Mai on route 1095, by public bus about 6 hours.
Nan - the former capital of a small kingdom filled with history and temples and surrounded by
mountains
Pai - a predominantly tourism-oriented town, offering a relaxed atmosphere with a broad traveller
& backpacker scene. Popular with hippies.
[edit]Border crossings
Mae Sai - Tachilek, Myanmar - Five hours north of Chiang Mai on the Thai-Myanmar border
lie Mae Sai (Thailand) and Tachilek (Myanmar) best known for their border markets. A popular
place to pop over border for a few hours before renewing your Thai visa. Note that there are no
consular services so you cannot get a new visa here. It is possible to get a 14-day Thai Visa on
re-entry to Thailand which can come in very handy if you do not have any time left on your current
Thai visa. The Myanmar fee for a same day entry permit is 10 USD or 500 THB (so it is better to
use USD). Many people buy western Alcohol (esp Wine) while in Myanmar due to the very large
duties imposed in Thailand.
Chiang Khong - Huay Xai, Laos - Six hours by bus (from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal, daily
8:30AM) to the border where you can catch a boat across the Mekong river to the Laos side.
From there slow (2-day) and fast (6-8 hour) boats ply the Mekong to Luang Prabang.
Administrative divisions
The province is subdivided in 18 districts (amphoe). These are further subdivided into 124 subdistricts
(tambon) and 1510 villages (muban).
1. Mueang Chiang Rai
2. Wiang Chai
3. Chiang Khong
10. Mae Suai
11. Wiang Pa Pao
12. Phaya Mengrai
4. Thoeng
5. Phan
6. Pa Daet
7. Mae Chan
8. Chiang Saen
9. Mae Sai
13. Wiang Kaen
14. Khun Tan
15. Mae Fa Luang
16. Mae Lao
17. Wiang Chiang Rung
18. Doi Luang
[edit]Transportation
Construction of a reinforced concretebridge in Chiang Rai Province (2009).
Chiang Rai province is intersected by Asian Highway 2, which runs over 13.000 km (over 8000 miles)
from Denpasar in Indonesia to Kosravi in Iran, and by Asian Highway 3, which runs for over 7,000 km
(4,300 mi) from Kentung in Myanmar to Ulan-Ude in Russia.
Rail
There is no railway system in Chiang Rai.
Bus service
Decent bus services are available in the province but in more remote areas, songthaews (public
passenger pick-up vehicles) are the norm.
Air
Chiang Rai International Airport at the moment only sees domestic flights.
[edit]Tourism
Panoramic view of the Phu Chi Fa mountain range
The province is rich in tourism resources in terms of natural attractions and antiquities, evidence of its
past civilisation. It is also home to various hilltribes who follow fascinating ways of life. Chiang Rai is
also a tourism gateway into Myanmar and Laos.
[edit]Attractions
Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park (Rai Mae Fah Luang) is located at Pa Ngiw Village, about 5
kilometers from the city center. It was founded by the late Princess Mother, who bought a 140 rai plot
to set up a center for developing the youths from rural areas under the supervision of the Mae Fah
Luang Foundation. The garden is a park cum museum preserving Lanna cultural objects.
Doi Tung (ดอยตุ�ง) is a revered mountain which includes the Doi Tung Palace and the Mae Fa Luang
Flower Garden. The Wat Phra That Doi Tung Holy Relic, an old religious site on top of the mountain,
is about 2,000 metres above sea level.
Wat Rong Khun (ว�ดรองข�น): This temple was designed and built by artist Chaloemchai Khositphiphat.
A white ordination hall – Phra Ubosot - is decorated with silver glittering pieces of mirrors. There are
large mural paintings of the Lord Buddha in different gestures.
The Golden Triangle (สาม่เหล�&ยม่ทองคำ(า), locally called "Sop Ruak", is where the Mekhong meets
the Ruak River and also where the borders of three countries, Laos, Burma and Thailand, meet
together. There are remains of many ancient places and structures attesting to the area having been
settled by people in the past.
Doi Mae Salong (ดอยแม่สลอง) is home to a community settled by remnants of the 93rd Division of
the Republic of China Army, who moved out of Yunnan province, China, in to Burma and after to Thai
territory at the end of the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Today the town is a tourist attraction renowned
for its tea and its small-town ambience on high hills.
Wat Phra Kaeo (ว�ดพระแก�ว) once housed Thailand's most revered Buddha image, the Emerald
Buddha. It was discovered in 1444. The statue had been moved by various state rulers to be placed in
their respective capitals as a symbol of dominance, including Lampang, Chiang Rai and Vientiane
before finally enshrined in Bangkok's Wat Phra Kaeo during the reign of King Rama I of the
Rattanakosin period.
Kok River (แม่น()ากก) flows through the town of Chiang Rai and is 130 kilometres long. Long-tailed
boats and cruises can be made from town to travel. Hilltribe villages in the area are popular with
travelers.
Amphoe Mae Sai: Mae Sai (แม่สาย), borders on Burma's Tachileik (ทาข�)เหล�ก) marked by the Mae Sai
River with a bridge spanning both sides. The area has a market selling lots of different goods.
Doi Nang Non (ดอยนางนอน), "sleeping woman mountain", is unusual land feature located in Mae
Chan district on the western side of the highway between Chiang Rai and Mae Sai.[4] The silhouette of
the mountain range takes the shape of a reclining woman when seen from certain angles. There is a
viewpoint at Mae Chan, from where this land feature can be observed best.[5]
The Hall of Opium, Golden Triangle Park (หอฝิ่+& นอ�ทยานสาม่เหล�&ยม่ทองคำ(า) exhibits the history
of opium in the Golden Triangle, its origin, opium war when people lived on opium planting and
smoking, as well as the recovery of the people who lived here.
Chiang Saen (เชี�ยงแสน): an ancient town which once served as the main town before King Mengrai
established Chiang Rai as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom in 1262. Traces of old double city walls
and many other antiquities still remain in and outside the district town. The attractions include Chiang
Saen National Museum (พ�พ�ธภั�ณฑสถานแหงชีาตุ�เชี�ยงแสน), Wat Phra That Chedi Luang (ว�ดพระธาตุ�เจ็ด�ย%หลวง) and Wat Pa Sak (ว�ดป่0าส�ก). Phu Chi Fa (ภั1ชี�)ฟ้3า): There is a trail which leads from a parking lot up
to the viewing point on the top of this mountain, a distance of 1.8 kilometres. From the sheer cliff of
Phu Chi Fa, views, especially the sea of clouds at sunrise, can be seen. The cool climate produces
flowering shrubs of various species.
[edit]Leisure Activities
Golf Santiburi Chiang Rai is one of the best courses in the country and is only 15 minutes from the
city. Waterford is an attractive course about 45 minutes north of Chiang Rai city. The Military course is
on the way to the Mae Fah Luang Bridge, not far from the Dusit Hotel. The old airport has a 9 hole
course.
Long Tail Boat Ride A long tail boat ride on the Kok River is a fun way to experience the scenery and
see hill tribe villages. There are daily trips from Thaton, near the Burmese border to Chiang Rai. The
main boat station is on the north side of the Mae Fah Luang Bridge, not far from the Rimkok Hotel.
Elephant Riding Elephant riding is possible at Baan Ruamit, about 30 minutes from Chiang Rai by
car or 1 hour by long tail boat ride.
Disc Golf Also known as 'Frisbee Golf' - there is a 9 hole course 2km NW of Chiang Rai town, in a
lovely park with rock formations and tall shade trees.
[edit]Adventure
Trekking An extensive network of trails mainly used by hill tribe villagers covers the mountain areas
of Mae Suai, Mae Salong, Doi Chaang and the banks along the Mae Kok River.
Rock Climbing Limestone karst hills are peppered throughout the province, some have straight-up
sides - potentially great for climbing, though often vine covered. There are several locations around
Chiang Rai which have been cleared, also containing ziplines.
Mountain Biking Chiang Rai has incredible mountain biking because of the extensive network of
paved roads with little traffic and dirt roads in the mountains. A nice day ride is to start in the city, go
out to the elephant village and continue on past it until you find a small single track suspension bridge.
Cross it and turn left, back towards Chiang Rai. On the way you will pass two hot springs and
eventually end up back in the city.
Caving 1 Km up the Mae Kok river, west of Chiang Rai town, is 'Crouching Lion Hill.' It parallels the
Mae Kok river and has a Buddha cave on its west end, and an easy-access cave near its east end.
The eastern cave is actually a 3-chambered cave, each with a natural skylight at its apex, the largest
chamber is as big as a giant sequoia tree. Trekkers can use it to walk through the entire hill.
[edit]Local Products
Chiang Rai is rich in handicraft items such as hand-woven cotton materials, dresses and hilltribe silver
ornaments, as well as wood-carving products. Certain food items are quite popular such as Naem and
Mu Yo (preserved and fermented pork sausages). Agricultural products include lychee (April–May),
pineapples, tea, and other products from the royal projects.
[edit]Nightlife
The provincial town (amphoe muang) has a few live music pubs and discothèques. Aimed at foreign
tourists, there is traditional music and performances in the Night Bazaar. There are also plenty of beer
bars, some with hostesses, around town.
[edit]Local Culture
The north of Thailand's culture is Lanna in origin and the people are very proud of their northern roots.
The region is home to distinctly different food, music, arts, way of life and even language. Chiang Rai
is also a melting pot of hill tribes and their own unique cultures.
[edit]Lifestyle
Khon Muang are the city folk who originally came from Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang and Phrae.
Culturally, they design their houses having only one floor with wooden gable-decorations called Ka-
Lae. They are known for their craftsmanship in wood carving, weaving, lacquerware and musical
instruments.
Tai Yai, Burmese in origin, harvest rice, farm, raise cattle and trade. Their craftsmanship lies in
weaving, pottery, wood carving and bronzeware.
Akha have the largest population of any hill tribe in the region. Originating from Tibet and Southern
China, they dwell on high grounds around 1,200 meters above sea-level. Within their villages they
build a Spirit Gateway to protect them from evil spirits.
Lahu are also from the Yunnese area and live in high areas. They are known as hunters and planters.
Karen live in various areas of the region which have valleys and riverbanks.
Chin Hor, these are the former Kuomintang who took refuge in the area, mainly Doi Mae Salong
Hmong from southern China are located on high land. They raise livestock and grow rice, corn,
tobacco and cabbage. They are also known for their embroidery and silver.
Tai Lue live in dwellings of usually only a single room wooden house built on high poles. They are
skilled in weaving.
Lisaw from southern China and Tibet are renowned for their colorful dress and also build their
dwellings on high poles. They harvest rice and corn and their men are skilled in hunting.
Yao reside along mountain sides and grow corn and other crops. They are skilled blacksmiths,
silversmiths and embroiders.
[edit]Events & Festivals
Wai Sa Phaya Mengrai or Phokhun Mengrai Maharat Festival (งานไหว�สาพญาเม่�งราย หร อ งานพอข�นเม่�งรายม่หาราชี) is held from January 23 – February 1. The Buang Suang worshipping ceremony is to
commemorate Phokhun Mengrai Maharat.
Dok Siao Ban or Blooming Siao Flower Festival at Phu Chi Fa (งานดอกเส�)ยวบานท�&ภั1ชี�)ฟ้3า) is held
during 13–15 February. There are sports competitions and cultural performances from hilltribes at Ban
Rom Fa Thai in Amphoe Thoeng.
Songkran Festival and Boat Races of Mueang Chiang Saen (งานป่ระเพณ�สงกรานตุ%และแขงเร อเม่ องเชี�ยงแสน) is held during 13–18 April of each year. In this festival, there is a parade, water bathing
ceremony of the Phrachao Lanthong Buddha image, boat races and folk performances.
Lichi Fair (งานเทศกาลล�)นจ็�&และของด�เม่ องเชี�ยงราย) is held around the middle of May every year. There is
a float competition, Lichi beauty contest and booths of many products at the provincial stadium of
Chiang Rai.
Buatong Ban or Blooming Mexican Sunflower Festival (งานเทศกาลดอกบ�วตุองบาน) is held in
November, affording people the opportunity to see the sunflower fields, waterfalls and mist at Ban
Hua Mae Kham, Amphoe Mae Fa Luang. There are also hilltribe performances.
Chiang Rai Flower Festival (งานเทศกาลเชี�ยงรายดอกไม่�บาน) is held during the end of December to
January every year. There are flower processions, flower gardens, Miss Thinn Thai Ngarm Contest
and also the fair of agricultural products and the variety of flowers.
Chiang Saen, Mae Chan, and Doi Mae Salong are three substantially different places. Chiang Saen's
culture has been influenced by its collection of Buddhist scriptures and temples. It was once the
provincial capital. Mae Chan's name lies in its silver and tribal handicrafts. Once officially
unrecognized by the Thai government, Doi Mae Salong is a Chinese KMT (Kuomintang) area
renowned for its natural beauty and unique Yunnanese culture. Besides the Chinese 93rd Infantry of
the Kuomintang, several other ethnic minorities have settled down in the region including the Tai Yai,
Tai Lue, Tai Khoen and Tai Yuan.
[edit]Art
The area is known for its traditional Lanna music with instruments such as the sau (fiddle) and
kaen (panpipe).
The north of Thailand has its own distinctive art and crafts including bronze casting, carving,
mulberry paper, Buddha Images and sign painting.
Local handmade items popular with tourists are clay charcoal stoves, tea sets, brooms and dust-
pans, and umbrellas for shade and decoration.
Some of the craftswork is made ofr spiritual purposes.
[edit]Local Food
The staple diet of local people consists of sticky rice (glutinous rice) which is rolled into balls and
served in small hand-made bamboo containers. Typical dishes in the area are khan khanoon (spicy
jackfruit curry), khaeng yuak (banana palm leaves), sai oo-a (pork sausages) and Yunnese and
Burmese rice noodles.
[edit]Medical Health Care
The popular Chiang Rai hospitals are:
Chiang Rai Regional Hospital
Kasemrad Sriburin General Hospital
Overbrooke Hospital
[edit]Retirement
Many foreign retirees make Chiang Rai their home due to the low cost of living and the agreeable
climate.
[edit]References
1. ^ Geographical data
2. ^ "30 year Average (1961-1990) - CHIANG RAI". Thai Meteorological Department. Retrieved 2010-04-
20.
3. ^ "Climatological Normals of Chiang Rai". Hong Kong Observatory. Retrieved 2011-11-13.
4. ^ Doi Nang Non Location
5. ^ Doi Nang Non View Point
[edit]External links
Website of province (Thai)
Province page from the Tourist Authority of Thailand
Volunteer to help the Hill Tribe villagers of Chiang Rai
The Switzerland of Thailand - Doi Tung
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อ(าเภัอแม่ลาว 19 ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอแม่จ็�น 28 ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอดอยหลวง 40
ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอเว�ยงเชี�ยงร� �ง 45
ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอพาน 47 ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอพญาเม่�งราย 48
ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอป่0าแดด 52 ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอเชี�ยงแสน 60
ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอแม่สรวย 62 ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอแม่สาย 63 ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอข�นตุาล 63 ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอเท�ง 64 ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอแม่ฟ้3าหลวง 65
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อ(าเภัอเว�ยงป่0าเป่3า 91
ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอเชี�ยงของ 145
ก�โลเม่ตุร
อ(าเภัอเว�ยงแกน 150
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1. พะเยา 94 ก�โลเม่ตุร
2. แพร 235 ก�โลเม่ตุร
3. ล(าป่าง 225 ก�โลเม่ตุร
4. ล(าพ1น 295 ก�โลเม่ตุร
5. เชี�ยงใหม่ 182 ก�โลเม่ตุร
6. ตุาก 398 ก�โลเม่ตุร
7. พ�ษณ�โลก 413 ก�โลเม่ตุร
8. ส�โขท�ย 400 ก�โลเม่ตุร
8. นคำรสวรรคำ% 542 ก�โลเม่ตุร
9. ขอนแกน 732 ก�โลเม่ตุร
10. นคำรราชีส�ม่า 870 ก�โลเม่ตุร
11. ระยอง 964 ก�โลเม่ตุร
12. นคำรพนม่ 1,030 ก�โลเม่ตุร
13. ภั1เก�ตุ 1,647 ก�โลเม่ตุร
14. กร�งเทพม่หานคำร 820 ก�โลเม่ตุร
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ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข 1 (พหลโยธ�น)(กร�งเทพม่หานคำร-แม่สาย)
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข 109 (แม่ลาว-แม่สรวย-ฝิ่าง)
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข 118 (แม่สรวย-เชี�ยงใหม่)
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข 120 (แม่ขะจ็าน-ว�งเหน อ-พะเยา)
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข 123 (เล�&ยงเม่ องแม่สาย)
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข 1016 (แม่จ็�น-เชี�ยงแสน)
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข 1019 (แม่สรวย-เชี�ยงใหม่)
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข 1020 (เชี�ยงราย-เท�ง-เชี�ยงของ)
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข 1021 (พะเยา-เชี�ยงคำ(า-เท�ง)
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข 1089 (แม่จ็�น-ฝิ่าง)
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข
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ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข
ทางหลวงแผืนด�นหม่ายเลข
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หล�กก�โลเม่ตุรสาม่เหล�&ยม่ทองคำ(า
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แหลงขนถายส�นคำ�าท�&ส(าคำ�ญอ�กแหงหน9&งของไทย
สาม่เหล�&ยม่ทองคำ(าในสวนของป่ระเทศไทย อย1ในเขตุบ�านสบรวก อ(าเภัอเชี�ยงแสน จ็�งหว�ดเชี�ยงราย ม่�ทาเร อขนาด
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ฝิ่+& นจ็ะถ1กแลกเป่ล�&ยนด�วยทองคำ(าในน()าหน�กท�&เทาก�น จ็9งเป่8นท�&ม่าของชี &อ สาม่เหล�&ยม่ทองคำ(า
น�กทองเท�&ยวน�ยม่เด�นทางไป่ย�งสาม่เหล�&ยม่ทองคำ(าในชีวงฤด1หนาว และไป่ถายร1ป่ก�บป่3าย "สาม่เหล�&ยม่ทองคำ(า" ท�&ตุ�ด
ตุ�)งไว�ร�ม่ฝิ่G& งแม่น()าโขงด�วย นอกจ็ากน�)ย�งน�ยม่น�&งเร อเท�&ยวชีม่ท�วท�ศน%จ็�ดบรรจ็บของพรม่แดนไทย ลาว และพม่า คำาเชีาเร อ
ป่ระม่าณ 300 - 400 บาท (น�&งได� 6 คำน) นอกจ็ากน�)ย�งสาม่ารถลองแม่น()าโขงไป่เท�&ยวทางตุอนใตุ�ของป่ระเทศจ็�น เชีน ส�บสอง
ป่Gนนา คำ�นหม่�ง ได�อ�กด�วย แตุหากตุ�องการจ็ะชีม่ท�วท�ศน%ม่�ม่กว�าง ของสาม่เหล�&ยม่ทองคำ(าบร�เวณสบรวกและเพ &อนบ�าน ตุ�องข9)น
ไป่บนดอยเชี�ยงเม่�&ยง ท�&อย1ร �ม่แม่น()าโขง
บทคำวาม่น�)ม่�เน )อหาท�&ส�)นม่าก ตุ�องการเพ�&ม่เตุ�ม่เน )อหา
ภั1ชี�)ฟ้3า
วนอทยานแห�งชีาต�ภ(ชี�3ฟ้:า เป่8นสถานท�&ทองเท�&ยวท�&ม่�ชี &อเส�ยงในจ็�งหว�ดเชี�ยงราย อย1ในอย1ในเขตุป่0าสงวนแหงชีาตุ� ป่0าแม่อ�งฝิ่G& งขวาและป่0าแม่งาว ฟ้3าทอง หม่1ท�& ตุ(าบลตุ�บเตุา อ(าเภัอเท�ง จ็�งหว�ดเชี�ยงราย ม่�พ )นท�&ป่ระม่าณ 2,500 ไร โดยกรม่ป่0าไม่�ได�ม่�คำ(าส�&งจ็�ดตุ�)งเป่8นวนอ�ทยานแหงชีาตุ�เม่ &อว�นท�& 6 ก�ม่ภัาพ�นธ% พ.ศ.
2541 พ )นท�&วนอ�ทยานเป่8นยอดเขาส1งในเท อกเขาดอยผืาหม่น ตุ�ดชีายแดนไทยและสาธารณร�ฐป่ระชีาธ�ป่ไตุยป่ระชีาชีนลาว ส1งจ็ากระด�บน()าทะเลตุ�)งแตุ 1,200 เม่ตุร ถ9ง 1,628 เม่ตุร[1]
ดอยแม่�ส้ลำอง (แม่-สะ-ลอง) ภั1เขาท�&เป่8นแหลงทองเท�&ยวแหงหน9&งของจ็�งหว�ดเชี�ยงราย ท�&เป่8นพ )นท�&ท�&ม่�การป่ล1กชีาท�&ด�ท�&ส�ดของป่ระเทศและม่�ซ็าก�ระหร อนางพญาเส อโคำรงม่�ดอกชีวงชีวงตุ�นเด อนม่กราคำม่ จ็นถ9งป่ลายเด อนม่�นาคำม่
ป่ระชีากรในดอยแม่สลองเด�ม่เป่8นชีาวอาขาอ�ก�อ ท�&สวม่ชี�ดป่ระจ็(าเผืาส�ด(าป่ระด�บเคำร &องเง�น
ส้วนส้ม่เด;จัพรุะศรุ�นครุ�นทรุ� เชี�ยงรุาย คำ อ สวนสาธารณะเฉล�ม่พระเก�ยรตุ�สม่เด�จ็พระศร�นคำร�นทราบรม่ราชีชีนน� 80 พรรษา ล(าด�บท�& 7 ตุ�)งอย1ท�&ตุ(าบลบ�านด1 อ(าเภัอเม่ องเชี�ยงราย จ็�งหว�ดเชี�ยงราย หางจ็ากตุ�วเม่ องป่ระม่าณ 9
ก�โลเม่ตุร ม่�เน )อท�& 625 ไรเศษ สม่เด�จ็พระเจ็�าพ�&นางเธอ เจ็�าฟ้3าก�ลยาณ�ว�ฒนา กรม่หลวงนราธ�วาสราชีนคำร�นทร% เสด�จ็เป่8นป่ระธานเป่+ดสวน เม่ &อว�นท�& 10 ม่กราคำม่ พ . ศ . 2531
หนวยงานร�บผื�ดชีอบในการด1แลร�กษา คำ อ ม่หาว�ทยาล�ยราชีภั�ฏิเชี�ยงราย ตุ�นไม่�ป่ระจ็(าสวน คำ อ ส�พรรณ�การ%
[แก�]ล�กษณะของสวนสวนสม่เด�จ็พระศร�นคำร�นทร% เชี�ยงราย ล�อม่รอบด�วยพ )นน()าและพ )นด�นท�&เป่8นท�งนา หม่1บ�าน ป่0าสงวน รวม่ท�)ง
พ )นท�&ของม่หาว�ทยาล�ยราชีภั�ฎ ไกลออกไป่จ็ะเห�นภั1เขาส�เทาคำราม่ล�อม่รอบและใกล�ๆ ม่�เน�นเตุ�)ย 3 เน�นและพ )นท�&ราบสวยงาม่ บนเน�นม่�ตุ�นส�พรรณ�การ%หร อ "ฝิ่3ายคำ(า" เป่8นจ็(านวนม่าก เม่ &อถ9งฤด1ออกดอกจ็ะเหล องสดใสสะพร�&งนาป่ระท�บใจ็
ในพ )นท�&ม่�หนองน()าใหญเร�ยกวา หนองบ�วใหญ และหนองเล�กเร�ยกวา หนองบ�วน�อย ยาม่เชี�าและเย�นเม่ &อพระอาท�ตุย%
ทอแสง ผื�วน()าท�&พร�)วเป่8นระลอกจ็ะสะท�อนแสงอาท�ตุย%ด�วยส�ส�นท�&งดงาม่ท(าให�ม่�ป่ระชีาชีนม่าเท�&ยวชีม่จ็(านวนม่าก ตุาม่แนวแกนของสวนท�&บนเน�นจ็ะม่�พล�บพลาท�&ป่ระท�บเป่8นสถาป่Gตุยกรรม่แบบเชี�ยงรายตุ�)งเดนเป่8นสงาแลไป่ทางหนองบ�วใหญซ็9&งจ็ะเห�น "อ�ทยานดอกไม่�" ท�&ป่ล�กไม่�ดอกเม่ องหนาวเป่8นข�)นหล�&นลงไป่ตุาม่เน�นจ็นชี�ขอบหนอง
จ็�ดเดนอ�กสวนหน9&งของสวนสม่เด�จ็พระศร�นคำร�นทร% เชี�ยงรายคำ อ "ถนนดอกไม่�" ท�&ยาวหลายร�อยเม่ตุรเป่8นแกนเชี &อม่ระหวางหนองบ�วใหญและหนองบ�วน�อย ม่�สวนป่าล%ม่สวนไผื สวนส�ก และสวนร�กขชีาตุ�เป่8นสวนป่ระกอบส(าคำ�ญด�วย
ภัายในสวนม่�ศ1นย%ว�จ็�ยและพ�ฒนาแพทย%พ )นบ�านแผืนไทยและแผืนชีนเผืาของสถาบ�นราชีภั�ฎเชี�ยงราย ม่�สวนรวบรวม่พ�นธ�%สม่�นไพร พ ชีผื�กพ )นบ�าน
[แก�]พระราชีาน�สาวร�ย%เม่ &อว�นท�& 9 ธ�นวาคำม่ พ . ศ . 2543 พระบาทสม่เด�จ็พระเจ็�าอย1ห�วทรงพระกร�ณาโป่รดเกล�าฯ ให�สม่เด�จ็พระเทพ
ร�ตุนราชีส�ดาฯ สยาม่บรม่ราชีก�ม่าร� เสด�จ็เป่8นป่ระธานเป่+ดพระราชีาน�สาวร�ย%สม่เด�จ็พระศร�นคำร�ทาบรม่ราชีชีนน�ท�&ป่ระด�ษฐานในสวนแหงน�)
ว�ดรองข�นตุ(าบลป่0าอ�อดอนชี�ย อ(าเภัอเม่ อง จ็�งหว�ดเชี�ยงราย 57000 โทรศ�พท% 0-5367-3579, 0-5367-3539
ว�ด : เป่+ดให�เข�าชีม่ท�กว�น เวลา 6.30 - 18.00 น.
ห�องแสดงภัาพ : เป่+ดให�เข�าชีม่ว�นจ็�นทร% - ศ�กร% 8.00 - 17.30 น. สวนว�นเสาร% อาท�ตุย% และว�นหย�ดราชีการ เวลา 8.00 - 18.00 น.
[แก�]อ�างอ�ง
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Restaurants and Guesthouses in Chiang DaoChiang Dao, Chiang Mai Province, ThailandUp until recently, it had been tough to find a good budget place to stay in Chiang Dao. Now, there
starting to be a few more options...
Mon and Kurt's Restaurant and Guesthouse
=======================
Their website indicates they have closed down.
======================
on Highway 107 have clean, budget rooms for 190 Baht per night. They come with free morning
coffee, soap and towel, free internet, UBC TV, fan and a hot shower. They also have clean,
Western Style toilets. Nothing bad to say about the place, except maybe for the occasional rooster
crowing at night. The food in the restaurant is excellent and priced from 35 Baht and up. The
owners are friendly and many local expats hang out there. Beer is cheap there, too, which is
always nice.
The place has a great view of Doi Luang Chiang Dao.
Location: 2.5km past Chiang Dao 7/11 on the way to Fang. Ph: 084-173-9975
email: [email protected] website: http://www.chiangdao.org
Cees' Bungalows, has newer, bungalows for 250 Baht per night. Hot showers and Western
Toilets.
Location: 200 mtr. behind MP gas station
Suan Dao Duan, is owned by a very nice lady named Daeng. She offers a homey atmosphere,
with a beautiful natural garden setting. She has several different size bungalows and houses
available, starting at 500 Baht per person and up. Great for bigger groups of people, too.
Location: Right on the new bypass in Chiang Dao. If you follow the unfinished bypass to its end,
you will arrive at Suan Dao Duan Resort.
Rainbow Resort, offers bungalows and rooms and also has a restaurant with some greek dishes,
as well as Local Thai Food. Owners are friendly. Rooms start at 250 Baht.
Location: A little bit harder to find, so call ahead and get directions Ph: 084-803-8116
There are also other guesthouses such as Yangtone Homestay, Malee's Guesthouse and Chiang
Dao Nest , but they would be more in the Mid-range price level. They all seem like nice places to
stay as well.
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