Chiang Mai

Come November of each year, the waterways and the skies light up with krathongs (floating banana leaves fashioned with candles and flowers) and khom fais (hot-air lanterns from the ancient Lanna kingdom). It is the Loi Kratong, a festival held at full moon of the Thai lunar calendar’s twelfth month. Thousands of locals and visitors have gathered for this Chiang Mai event. The lit up skies and waters are bright testaments to the city’s cultural significance – one that perhaps overshadows that of Bangkok and other more popular Thai cities.

Chiang Mai is on Thailand’s north. Historically, it was part of the country’s trade route. Today, it draws in travelers who come for business, or for the varied well-maintained sights within the city. It is likewise known for the productions of woodcarvings, handicrafts, umbrellas, and jewelry.

Perhaps one of the most daunting characteristics of Chiang Mai is its more than three hundred Buddhist temples, giving its landscape a surreal and somber look. The Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is the most famous of these. The temple sits on top of a hill and dates back to 1383. Apart from the amazing architecture of the place, it also affords the visitor a unique view of the whole city. The Wat Chiang Man is another important Buddhist temple in the city. It was constructed back in the 13th century and was where King Mengrai lived while observing the building of Chiang Mai.

The city is also one of the best places to experience time with elephants. The Elephant Nature Park is an ideal visit and functions as a sanctuary for rescued elephants.

Travelers to Chiang Mai generally need a valid passport and visa when planning to stay at Chiang Mai longer. The city is typically safe – safer than tourist centers like Bangkok. However, there are “crossover” scams like the gem scam and the tuk-tuk scams. Basic watchfulness is advised.