Chiang Mai, Thailand : rose of the North

Thailand is one of the favourite countries for world tourists.  Many of them like its beaches in the South and many like Bangkok for shopping. My wife and I prefer Chiang Mai in the North.  It is surrounded by the Northern mountain ranges and neighboring to Burma, China and Laos.  Winter is dry and cool in Chiang Mai.  It is the better season for travelling there.

Chiang Mai was first developed by the Lanna Kingdom more than seven centuries ago.  The old Chiang Mai city is still centrally located with its city walls and surrounding moat as the key city landmarks. 

(One of the old city gates along the city defense walls)

(The moat around the old city walls)

Similar to Bali, Chiang Mai has high concentration of Buddhist temples in the city. There are more than 300 temples within the city.  Many of them have long history and held significant positions in the Buddhist religion. Wat Chiang Man is the old Buddhist temple which was first established before the old Chiang Mai city was built.  If you are interested in Buddhist art and history, you will enjoy visiting these temples by walking around the city.

(The main temple of Wat Chiang Man)

(The elephant stupa behind the main temple of Wat Chiang Man)

(Father and son praying in front of the Buddha statue)

Within half an hour ride, you can reach the mountain ranges in the North.  Many tourists go there for trekking or riding elephants. The Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden is also located in the edge of the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.  You can easily spend half a day there.

(The Garden flower clock and its green houses in behind)

 

(Wild orchid in the garden)

During this trip to Chiang Mai, we were lucky enough to join its annual flower festival.  We had opportunity seeing its beautiful flower show and parade.  Thousands of tourists and local citizens gathered around the old city moat to see the festival flower parade.

(Beaufiful Chiang Mai ladies leading the Flower Festival parade)

(Lovely orchid in the flower show)