Chiang Mai is a city in the Chiang Mai Province of hilly northern Thailand. It was founded in 1296 as the capital of the old Kingdom of Lanna and is known for its culture and heritage, and its hundreds of temples. Here are the top reasons you definitely must visit Chiang Mai this year:
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Explore the wonderful temples
The city of Chiang Mai has over 300 temples, each with its own mythical tales and stunning architecture. Start off at the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep; set atop a hill it is one of Thailand’s most famous temple and is said to have the bones of the Buddha. You can also visit the Wat Chedi Luang, which has some ancient pillars adorned with carved serpents, as well as the 14th-century Wat Phra Singh Temple that is known for its 400-year-old heritage murals
Go crazy with lots of shopping
There are lots of wonderful local markets in Chiang Mai, filled will all kinds of stuff you’ll want to buy. Check out the colourful wares of the Night Bazaar, from handicrafts to silverware, and silks; or the bustling Sunday Walking Street Market that stretches from Thapae Gate all the way to Wat Pra Singh and has local handicrafts and delicious food. You can also see the more upscale galleries and boutiques on Nimmanhaemin Road.
Take part in exciting adventure sports
Chiang Mai has a variety of adventure sports for you to choose from. You can go kayaking and white-water-rafting on the River Ping, or swing through the jungles on a zip-line. There are also lots of opportunities for treks into the nearby mountains, and even hot-air balloon rides over its green fields for a bird’s-eye view of the city.
Try the delicious food
Thai food is famous all over the world, but the food in Southern Thailand is quite different from that in Northern Thailand. The region is bordered by Laos and Myanmar, and the food is influenced by these countries. Try delicious dishes like gaang hang lair (a Northern Thai curry), khao soi (egg noodles in coconut curry), and sai oi (a popular Northern Thai sausage). You can also visit traditional khantoke dinners that are accompanied by classical Thai music and dance shows or visit one of the city’s many cooking schools. There are also lots of options for vegans and vegetarians.
Be pampered with soothing massages
Exploring a new place is unquestionably fun, but it can also be exhausting. Why not take a much-needed break with a soothing massage. Thailand is famous for its traditional massages, and Ching Mai is no different. They are the perfect way to release the tension in your body. These massages often involve a lot of twisting, stretching, rocking, and pulling of limbs, as well as fragrant natural oils, so be prepared!
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See the amazing natural hotspots
There are lots of amazing natural sights to visit in and around Chiang Mai. One of the top places is the serene Huay Tung Tao Lake which lies at the foot of Doi Suthep Mountain. You can also visit the stunning Bua Tong Waterfall, also known as sticky waterfalls due to its easy to climb slopes. However, one thing that lots of people want to do in Thailand is to see elephants, and you can do this Elephant Nature Park, which rescues and rehabilitates elephants.
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There are lots of other reasons to visit Chiang Mai, from its pleasant weather (due to higher altitude) to its affordable rates. If we’ve missed any, be sure to share them in the comments below.
