Chiang Mai Province

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Introduction

Chiang Mai Province is Thailand's second largest province. It is set in the northern highlands of Thailand and borders Myanmar in the north. Chiang Mai is the capital and largest city.

Geography

Cities

• Chiang Mai

Sights and Activities

Doi Inthanon
A nice day trip from Chiang Mai, the highest mountain in Thailand is worth the visit. The mountain and its surrounding area are part of a National Park which spans an area of 48,240 ha with the summit at 2,565m above sea level. The altitude means that the ecology and temperature are not what you would typically expect of tropical Thailand. The temperature can drop to single figures, and the ecology is more like that typically found in colder climes such as Europe. It is also famous for its variety of birds, making it a good destination for birdwatchers. The park has several walking trails which allow you to explore the beauty of its flora and fauna.

Private transport is recommended to reach and explore the park. There are many impressive waterfalls to visit along the way such as Wachiratharn, Mae Ya and Mae Klang. Just before the summit another point of interest are the two royal pagodas which offer good views of the valley below.

Events and Festivals

Songkran (Thai New Year)

ChangMai Lanterns

© All Rights Reserved rea-neill

Songkran is the biggest party of the year, held during the hot month of April. In the past, people would throw water among themselves in nice way to bless each other. These days, the festival has evolved into an all-out water fight that takes a whole week. Chiang Mai is the spot in Thailand where Songkran is celebrated for the longest period. The rest of Thailand limits the Songkran festival to some few days. The reason for this is that the festival originated from Chiang Mai in the past and so the city feels more strongly attached to it than anywhere else in Thailand.

Weather

Chiang Mai has 3 seasons; winter, summer and rainy season. Being in the North temperatures are slightly cooler compared to Bangkok and the south. During winter months (Nov - Feb) evenings are pleasantly chilly whilst the day is still hot (30 degrees celcius). The Summer months (March-April) can be unbearably hot where temperatures can soar to 40 degrees. During rainy season (End of May - Sep) the weather cools off a bit with daily outbursts of rain that can last up to an hour or so. Despite being wet sometimes, it is otherwise a very nice time to visit as this is when the fields are at their most lush green.

Getting There

By Plane

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is the main gateway to the province.

A main hub for domestic flights, there are services from Bangkok, Phuket, Samui, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Pai, Udon Thani

International flights also operate from KunMin, Kuala Lumpur, Luang Prabang, Vientiene, Seoul and Taipei

By Train

From Bangkok, there are 6 trains daily that depart from Hua Lampong Station.
Fan/air- con, slow/fast trains are available taking anywhere from 12-15hrs
Overnight trains all have bunks

By Car

By Bus

From Bangkok, buses depart every hour from 05.30 - 22.00 from Mo Chit Bus Terminal
There are 3 classes of bus; fan, air-con, VIP
The journey takes approx 12-15hrs

By Boat

Getting Around

By Plane

By Train

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Eat

Drink

Sleep