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Situated in the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai Province
is full of natural beauty spots such as Doi-Suthep-Pui
National Park, Thap Lan National Park, Buak Hat Park
and dozens of inviting waterfalls, among which Huay
Kaew falls, Mae Sa Waterfall and Wachiratharn Waterfall
should not be missed. The area is also a great place
for bird watching, so make sure you bring your binoculars.
The capital of Chiang Mai Province is Chiang Mai
city, which is the second largest city in Thailand
and forms the focus point for travel to the north.
Thousands of people visit Chiang Mai every year, drawn
by its rich culture, cool climate and wide range of
entertainment options.
Chiang Mai boasts over 300 temples, of which Wat
Phra That Doi Suthep, situated atop Doi Intanon -
Thailand's biggest mountain - is probably the most
famous. Other temples worth seeing include the ancient
Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and
the tranquil forest temple of Wat U-Mong.
The city of Chiang Mai was founded by King Mengrai
in 1296, and a tribute to the great king can be seen
in the Three Kings Monument. Both the informative
Chiang Mai City Art and Cultural Center and the nearby
Chiang Saen National Museum are good places to discover
more of the area's interesting history and you can
take a course or use the facilities at Chiang Mai
University.
Often referred to as the 'Rose of the North', Chiang
Mai is a great place to lose yourself for a week or
two. The Old City is a great place to explore, where
surprises wait around every corner, or why not go
on a cycling tour with the Chiang Mai Cycle Club.
With prices often markedly less than in Bangkok,
Chiang Mai is a great place to go shopping. Chiang
Mai Night Bazaar is world famous and definitely should
not be missed. The quaint umbrella village of Bo Sang
makes a great place for a day trip and Talat Warorot
is a good place to buy local produce, with prices
to match.
Chiang Mai is a good place for self improvement and
there are numerous courses and classes available.
This is a great place to cook up a storm in a cookery
class, and meditation courses always prove popular,
whilst the sporty can learn a new skill at the Muay
Thai Boxing Camp.
The stunning local scenery also provides a good backdrop
for a range of sports such as Chiang Mai Rock Climbing
Adventures, and both Chiang Mai Flying Club and Oriental
Balloon Flights provide a new perspective on the area.
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