In the Northern province of Thailand, lies a beautiful city. Her name is Chiang Mai (or "New City"). She was founded back in 1296, when she also became the new capital of the Lanna (Lan Na) Kingdom. Today, she is considered the Thai capital of the North. A very small "capital" with only some 200,000 people.
She has a distinctive charm, quite different from her much "bigger sister" Bangkok. Up until about a hundred years ago (1920), there were really only two ways to reach her - via river boat or an elephant trek. She was a walled city. Within her one square mile walls, are over thirty (30) historical Buddhist temples. In wider Chiang Mai, there are over 300 temples - beautiful and intricate places of spirituality.
When you visit, be sure to tour an ethical elephant sanctuary (hug an elephant for an Instagram op!), enter a temple, eat Thai cuisine, visit a neighbouring hill tribe and if you are very lucky, join in the local Loi Krathong festival of lights which is celebrated alongside Yi Peng (Full Moon or lantern festival, usually November, book super early); witness the spirituality and release of some "10,000" lanterns into the night sky all over Chiang Mai.
We wish you a trip of relaxation and idleness. Here is a little guide on how to make it a most memorable one! Enjoy.
(Cover Photo by Mariamichelle from Pixabay)