Chiang Mai
Thailand’s second city, Chiang Mai is a comfortable yet sophisticated city and gateway to the mountains of northern Thailand.

Historical Center
Originally settled by the Mons, King Mengrai founded Chiang Mai as a Thai kingdom in 1296. Centuries later it was absorbed into the Lanna Thai kingdom and became a major center for religion and culture. The Burmese controlled the city from 1556 until King Taksin redeemed it in 1775, placing it permanently under Thai sovereignty. With all this history, there is plenty to hold your attention in Chiang Mai: walk around the old walled city, see traditional temples, trek through rural mountain villages, visit cultural centers and go shopping for exquisite handicrafts.

Northern Capital
These days, Chiang Mai is Thailand's northern capital. Various countries have consulates here, and visitors have an excellent choice of accommodation. The climate is pleasantly cooler than Bangkok's, even cold at night around New Year. Still, the days are hot, and along with the city’s public pools, big hotels open theirs to non-guests. The nightlife here is good and varied, as is the array of international restaurants. There are plenty of Muay Thai, meditation, yoga and massage centers for anyone seeking something unusual.

Ancient Temples
Many Chiang Mai temples are centuries old, displaying fine examples of northern art and architecture. Some interesting temples to visit: Wat Jet Yot (mid 15th C) was built to replicate the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, India, where the Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. There are seven spires marking the number of weeks he spent there. Wat Chiang Man (1296) is the city’s oldest temple. Begun by King Mengrai, it houses two ancient and significant Buddha images under huge teak supports inside the main sanctuary. On Chiang Mai’s holy mountain, Doi Suthep, stands Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (1383). After a short drive from the city, visitors climb the 300-step Naga staircase that leads to a tour de force of marble and gold with exhilarating city and country views.

Museums & Handicrafts
The Chiang Mai National Museum (open 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wednesday – Sunday) contains Buddha statues, pottery and other relics. Not far away is the Tribal Museum, with information on the history and culture of each hill tribe as well as their traditional handicrafts. You can buy handicrafts and everything else at the famous Night Bazaar.