Thursday, 22 January 2015

DOI INTHANON

CHIANG MAI SIGHTSEEING AND NATIONAL PARKS

The highest peak in Thailand, Doi Inthanon rises to a height of 2565 meters (8, 415 feet) above sea level. This altitude means that temperatures on Doi Inthanon are refreshingly brisk year round and regularly dip below freezing during the cool season (October to February). The national park which contains Doi Inthanon and bears its name covers 482 square km (186 square miles) and contains Sanpatong District, Chomthong District, Mae Chaem District, Mae Wang District, and the Toi Lor Sub district of Chiang Mai Province.

Doi Inthanon National Park is a true jewel of natural beauty, consisting of rugged mountainous terrain blanketed by lush tropical forests and dotted with mighty rivers and majestic waterfalls. The park's protected status makes it a sanctuary for a wide range of animal species and it is perhaps the best place in Thailand for bird watching. Approximately 362 different species of bird make their home in Doi Inthanon National Park, many of which are not found anywhere else in Thailand.

The diversity of Doi Inthanon does not only extend to plant and animal species, however. The park has long been home to settlements of Northern Hilltribes as well. Recent efforts have been made to allow theses unique villages to maintain their traditional cultures while co-existing with modern developments such as tourism and the Bhumibol Dam, which harnesses the power of the Ping River to provide electricity to thousands of Thai people.

Doi Inthanon is a popular destination for visitors to the region, not only for its natural beauty, but for its historical significance as well. Chedis (monuments) dedicated to Their Royal Majesties, The King and Queen, can be found atop the peak of the mountain.

The park has been adapted somewhat to ACCOMMODATE THE

tourist trade and there are some eating and drinking areas, as well as accommodation. The rugged terrain is now crisscrossed with pathways and roads to make it more accessible to visitors. The development has been tightly controlled, however, and every effort has been made to preserve the natural beauty of the environment.

Doi Inthanon Topography and Climate

Doi Inthanon National Park consists primarily of high rugged mountains including Doi Inthanon itself, as well as Doi Huamodluang. The area is a major watershed and is the source of several rivers such as the Mae Klang, Mae Pakong, Mae Pon, Mae Hoi, Mae Ya, Mae Chaem and Mae Khan Rivers. It is also part of the source of the Ping River, which runs directly through Chiang Mai.

When you combine mountain peaks with rivers, what do you get? Waterfalls. Doi Inthanon National Park is the location of some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Thailand. The most stunning of these waterfalls is probably Mae Yai, which cascades down from a height of 100 meters (330 feet). Mae Klang Waterfall is easily accessible to visitors, being located right near the park entrance. On the weekends expect to see plenty of Thai families enjoying a picnic near this scenic point.

Wachiratan Waterfall is located halfway up the road to the top of the peak and provides some great swimming holes at the bottom of its 40 meter (131 foot) drop. A dip in one of these pools is not for the faint of heart, however, as the water temperature is downright icy. Close to the summit you will find the slender white wisp of Siriphum Waterfall, which is usually less crowded than its cousins. The water level of Siriphum varies a great deal from season to season, however.

The elevation of Doi Inthanon means that it enjoys a perpetually cooler temperature than the surrounding plains. During the middle of the cool season temperatures easily drop below freezing and even during the sweltering heat of the hot season the air at the summit remains bracingly chilly.

Doi Inthanon Flora and Fauna

The high elevation and abundance of water have blessed Doi Inthanon with a rich biodiversity that is unique in Thailand. Its lush forests include Moist Evergreen, Pine Forest and Mixed Deciduous. At the base of the mountains cleared agricultural land is interspersed with deciduous trees, which lose their leaves at the coming of the dry season. At higher elevations the deciduous forests give way to large swathes of tropical evergreen, which maintain their emerald hue all year round. Doi Inthanon is home to a large and colourful array of flowers, as well. Vanda Orchids, Phycastylis and Rhododendron can be found growing wild all over the park.

Doi Inthanon National Park is also home to a wide variety of animal species. Although many of the large animals are no longer found in the park it is still home to a number of different species. Asiatic Black Bears, Barking Deer and Chinese Flying Squirrels can be seen, living alongside a large variety of primates including Gibbons, Macaques, Leaf Monkeys and over 30 species of bats. Doi Inthanon is also the best locale in Thailand for bird watching, with over 300 different species making their homes among the trees.

Doi Inthanon Attractions

Doi Inthanon National Park has much to offer visitors besides its natural beauty. For centuries the area has been home to various hill tribes who still reside there and maintain their ancient way of life. At the base of the peaks you will find Hmong villages, where the people continue to tend their fields as they have done for hundreds of years. The only change is the crop. Thanks to the Royal Project, these people have switched from cultivating opium poppies and now grow other commercial crops such as vegetables and flowers. Visitors are welcome to the Royal Project, which is located right near the rangers' station.

Try a trip to the Hmong Village, Khun Ya Noi, for a visit to the market and to admire the people's colourfully embroidered clothing. There are also several Karen villages, such as Ban Mae Ab Nai, where you can purchase fine examples of traditional Karen weaving and textiles and observe the quaint Karen way of life first hand. If you are up for a bit of a hike then check out Brichinda Cave, a beautiful limestone cave which is open to the sky. The cave is located in the middle of a deciduous forest, about an hour's walk from the road.

For those keen on trekking Doi Inthanon is a paradise, with four striking nature trails to explore. Nature trails are a great way to experience the fantastic scenery of Doi Inthanon up close and personal. Doi Inthanon nature trails take a few hours to walk and maps and guides are available at the ranger station. Near the summit of Doi Inthanon you will find two Chedis dedicated to Their Royal Majesties, the King and Queen. The Chedis are located on facing hills, about 100 meters (330 feet) from one another. They were erected to commemorate the King and Queen's 60th birthdays and each contain exquisitely crafted Buddha images as well as fine tiled murals. The views offered from the hills can be astounding on a clear day but there is often cloud cover or fog obscuring visibility.

Doi Inthanon Travel Information

There are several different options for those who wish to explore Doi Inthanon. To make it simple on yourself and make sure you don't miss anything, see our Doi Inthanon Tours. Another option is to explore the park in a RENTAL CAR

or on a motorbike.

To get to Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai take route 108 towards Chomthong. Follow this road for 57 km (35 miles) and turn right onto route 1009 (Chomthong-Doi Inthanon Road). Follow this road for 31km (19 miles) and you will arrive at the entrance of the park (trip time approximately 90 minutes). Once in the park you can explore it on foot or in a vehicle. While the climb is tiring, it is a great way to experience the entire park. The ranger station at the entrance to the park is well equipped and can provide maps, guides and information on the park.

If you want to stay overnight at Doi Inthanon there are several options available. The Royal Park Service maintains a small number of chalets and bungalows on the park grounds. The surroundings are spectacular but the amenities are limited. There are also campsites located near the ranger stations but advance booking is recommended, especially during high season, when much of the ACCOMMODATION

is full. The nearby villages of Chomthong, Hot and Mae Chaem also have a number of guest houses and resort-type facilities.

Places of Worship

Doi Sutheap Temple Phra Singh Temple

Chiang Mai Transportation

Bangkok to Chiang Mai transport guide

Chiang Mai is a major tourist centre with a good transport infrastructure that includes an international airport, a rail link from Bangkok, and frequent long-distance buses from all over. They connect the city to Northern Thailand destinations, as well as Bangkok, which is a 10-hour drive away. The one-hour flight from the capital is the most comfortable means of arriving, with budget flights serving almost every hour.

This city of 300,000 is easy to get around on foot, by bicycle or moped. The public transport in Chiang Mai comprises mostly of modified pickup trucks (known in Thailand as songthaews), which are cheap and ubiquitous, although it’s more convenient to hail a tuk-tuk (three-wheeler, samlor). A limited bus service runs, but is seldom practical for visitors. The pace of traffic is easy enough to navigate on a rented scooter, which is the most popular choice.

	Airport Chiang Mai’s international airport puts the city in touch with Bangkok, Phuket, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and other regional tourist hotspots with a hassle free experience...more		Flights See the timetable of flights to Chiang Mai from Bangkok and beyond, with dozens of services a day connecting Chiang Mai to the islands, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and South Korea...more
	Buses The favoured choice for locals and budget travellers, and the cheapest option for overland travel to the north. From Bangkok you can be in Chiang Mai on a 10-hour overnight VIP bus trip...more		Trains Travel the old fashioned way with an overnight sleeper that trundles through pretty countryside while you get a good night’s sleep; more comfortable but less cheap...more

By air to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a major hub for domestic flights, offering regular service from Bangkok, Phuket, Samui, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Pai, Udon Thani, plus a handful of smaller destinations. International flights arrive regularly from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Yangon, Seoul, Taipei and Kunming. There are at least 30 flights a day between Chiang Mai and Bangkok on a variety of airlines, including budget carriers and the flag carrier, Thai Airways. Budget carriers include: AirAsia, Nok Air, Bangkok Airways and One2Go, while the more comfortable Thai Airways can offer competitive prices, too.

Airfares are reasonable and the airport in Chiang Mai is modern, efficient and close to the city centre. Taxis into the town centre are fair and reliable, taking about 15 minutes and costing from 120 baht. There is a counter in Arrivals to arrange this and you're not going to save much by trying to haggle directly with the drivers. In general, the taxi arrangement in Chiang Mai is far more honest and free of mafia control than other tourist centres.

By train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Getting to Chiang Mai by train is another popular option with budget travellers, though the service is becoming increasingly decrepit and prone to minor accidents. There are five trains a day consisting of differing classes and speeds that depart Bangkok’s Hua Lampong Station at: 05:45, 08:45, 16:00, 17:00 and 17:30. The journey is typically slow due to there only being the one main line (12 hours minimum) so the overnight sleeper ticket (900 baht) is recommended. All trains departing from 16:00 onwards have comfortable bunks (some without air-conditioning).

By bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Buses depart at least every hour between 05:30 and 22:00 from Mo Chit Station and take roughly 10 hours, with a similar schedule in reverse from Chiang Mai's Arcade (main) bus terminal (tel: +66 53 242 664). We recommend VIP buses (fare 500-800 baht), offered by either the government or private companies. These can also be arranged from travel agents with some departing from Bangkok’s Khao San Road.

By car from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

You can also hire a car in Bangkok or elsewhere for getting to Chiang Mai, and drive up at your own leisure, stopping off in Ayutthaya and Sukhothai. The countryside is quite pretty as you enter the mountains from Tak or Phitsanulok onwards. With dual-lane highways most of the way, reaching Chiang Mai by car is a straightforward journey of around eight hours.

Driving in Thailand is on the left, roads are in good condition but driving habits are typically poor and accidents common, so drive defensively. We suggest booking online with a car hire comparatorsite (or here) to find the best deals among the international car rental companies operating in Thailand.

Chiang Mai Weather

Weather in Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand

Waterfalls are most impressive after monsoon rains

The weather of Northern Thailand, including Chiang Mai, differs from the traditional divisions of spring, summer, autumn and winter. Instead, the region has three distinct seasons: the cool season, hot season and rainy season. Chiang Mai is known as the 'cool capital', and in comparison to the sweaty heat of Bangkok, the climate is far more agreeable. Chiang Mai weather, month by month.

Cool season in Chiang Mai

The most popular time for visiting Chiang Mai ( weather wise) is the cool season, which runs from December to the end of February. It is in fact pleasantly chilly in the evenings, and if you are planning on visiting Chiang Mai at this time of year, it would be wise to bring all-weather gear along; particularly if you intend hiring a motorcycle to get around, or going on a mountain trek. However, don't leave out your summer clothes, as midday temperatures can climb well into the 30s (Celsius).

Hot season in Chiang Mai

Try to avoid a holiday to Thailand during this time (April-June) as unless you are completely accustomed to tropical heat, you will find the humidity utterly draining. Despite all the moisture in the air, however, there is virtually no rain during this period. The lack of water with blazing heat and slash-and-burn agricultural practices causes the usually lush green jungle that covers the surrounding hills to turn a charred brown from fires that burn almost constantly from January until the rains arrive. Not only does this affect the vegetation, but a trademark 'hot season haze' hangs over the entire city, obscuring the beautiful vistas.

The weather starts heating up in Chiang Mai around early February, and by mid-March, the nippy nights of December are nothing but a pleasant memory, with daytime maximums regularly reaching 40°C.

Rainy season in Chiang Mai

The southwest monsoon usually arrives from India at the end of May, and from then until November the weather in Chiang Mai and northern Thailand is very wet. The rainy season is characterized by torrential downpours, but they tend to be sudden bursts that only last for an hour or so rather than a steady stream of water.

Although mosquitoes are rife during this time, the rainy season is otherwise a pleasant time to visit the north. The rains bring respite from the heat, and the landscape returns to its strikingly-gorgeous shade of green. Rainfall is usually heaviest in September, with an average precipitation of 250mm.

Murky March health hazards

Rice planters enjoy a hard day's sweaty graft

Chiang Mai has a particularly chronic problem with burning (and resulting haze) in March. The mountain views disappear as the Ping River valley chokes under a dusty haze that can often be a health hazard. This is the result of indiscriminate burning by ill-educated peasant farmers, couple with stagnant breeze-less weather. Authorities have failed in recent years to tackle the issue, as tourists are advised to stay away and locals remain indoors on days when the dust particle levels far exceed accepted international health thresholds.

Generally speaking, the weather of northern Thailand is far more temperate than central or southern Thailand. The area is more than 2,000kms from the equator and much closer to the Tropic of Cancer. This, coupled with its mountainous terrain and location in the Asian interior, brings cooler temperatures and less humidity. However, there is still quite a bit of precipitation during the rainy season and the weather gets very chilly once you leave Chiang Mai and head up into the mountains.

Chiang Mai weather in January

January is a very popular month to visit the North as it experiences Thailand’s coolest weather, making Chiang Mai and the mountains a novelty with Thai tourists. Expect temperatures similar to a sunny European summer day, somewhat hazy, and chilly at night.

Chiang Mai weather in February

The weather and temperatures are still very agreeable in Chiang Mai in February, though it still gets quite hot around midday in the valleys. It never rains, but by now the landscape is quite dry and the vistas hazy. Tourist services remain busy.

Chiang Mai weather in March

March is one of the worst times to visit Chiang Mai (weather wise), since the air is thick with dust and micro-particles from widespread rural burning. The haze removes any view of the mountains, there’s no breeze, and the results can be a health hazard on certain days.

Chiang Mai weather in April

The weather in Chiang Mai gets very hot in April as temperatures peak in the mid 30s (Celsius); the rain has yet to cool the region down and the landscape remains dry. A popular reason to visit is the annual Songkran water splash festival, which is best enjoyed in Chiang Mai - HOTELS

fill up by mid-month.

Chiang Mai weather in May

From May onwards the tourist season in Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand is in decline, but the weather improves as the rains arrive. This means sunny skies and afternoon storms to cool things off.

Chiang Mai weather in June

It’s still hot in June in Chiang Mai as the weather moves into the full rainy season, bringing with it 90 per cent humidity, adding to the immense feeling of warmth. It’s still cooler than Bangkok and the South.

Chiang Mai weather in July

July is low season in northern Thailand; cloud cover in the rainy season cools the weather in Chiang Mai but you also get plenty of sunshine in between the showers. It remains hot, though could be cloudy and warm for days. Room rates are cheaper, tourist numbers far less, but the experience is just as pleasant.

Chiang Mai weather in August

Mainly backpackers come to Chiang Mai in August, while most other tourists prefer more northern summer destinations around the globe. This means the budget travellers get out-of-season deals, see the province when it's at its lushest and still get plenty of sunshine... even if it’s humid and sometimes cloudy!

Chiang Mai weather in September

September is one of the quietest months for tourism in Chiang Mai and usually the wettest weather. Expect showers almost every day, along with cloud cover (but warm temperatures), a good chance of sunshine, and high humidity. Best bargains on prices this month.

Chiang Mai weather in October

October is one of the prettiest times to visit Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand, at the tail end of the wet weather when the rice fields create a patchwork of green across the landscape. It might still rain regularly but remains mostly sunny and begins to cool and become less humid. However, there are few tourists to enjoy this.

Chiang Mai weather in November

Prices jump up from early November as the tourist season gets going and the weather dries up, with sunny skies, cooler days and the lush remains of six months of rain. It’s one of the best times to visit, not quite busy yet but some of the best weather, with clear views of the mountains.

Chiang Mai weather in December

December is probably the busiest month for tourism in Chiang Mai and northern Thailand in general as local Thai tourists make the most of the cool weather. Expect full HOTELS AND

busy roads during long weekends - especially in Pai - but nice clear mountain views, chilly evenings, and sunny skies.

Chiang Mai Shopping

Shoppers are spoils for choice in Chiang Mai; a virtual labyrinth of spectacular shops. Chiang Mai has everything from beautiful handmade products and art and traditional cottage crafts to international labels and fake imitation brands. You won't need big bucks to come and shop here, there are shopping opportunities for the largest or smallest of budgets. From modern malls to chic boutiques this city has it all. Markets play a central role in Thai society and culture, in Chiang Mai you can explore some of the country's most stunning markets adorned with exotic fruits, vegetables and flowers. And even if you aren't a big spender taking a browse around colourful and full of life markets in Chiang Mai is a great tourist experience, so don't forget your camera

Chiang Shopping Map

Night Bazaar

If it's your first time in Thailand a night bazaar is a rudimentary check point, though after one or two visits you may have just about had your fill. Apart from the touts, crowded walk ways and repetitive products there are some good bargains to be had, so it's worth going at least once. Over the past four decades trends have been set (and copied) by innovative and smart Night Bazaar shop owners. The products and trends available at the Night Bazaar change constantly so it's still an exciting place for locals to occasionally shop, as well as for tourists looking for souvenirs. Open daily between sunset and midnight, the Night Bazaar is the place to go for souvenirs, handicrafts, fake goods, textiles, dried foods and other knickknacks. This area may be a good place to get a suit or dress made as there are various tailor's shops. There are also many restaurants selling seafood and international cuisine, fast-food chains, pubs, drinks and snacks for sale to replenish you whilst shopping, so the area can entertain you for an evening. Oh, and don't forget a little bargaining is expected, but don't fight over tuppence.

Sankampaeng

Along the Sangkampaeng road you will find crafts a-plenty. Sangkampaeng is one of the main bloodlines of Chiang Mai's famous arts and crafts scene. Along this road you will find a huge variety of products including lacquer-ware, celadon, silk and textiles, woodcarving, silverware, umbrellas and a whole range of hill tribe arts and crafts. This area makes for a nice jaunt out of the city with interesting busy areas of creativity and production and some nice coffee shops and restaurants. There are many workshops which are open for visitors to view crafts men and women at work. Although this road can get pretty full of tourist buses, it is still a decent place to see local traditional arts. Thirteen kilometres east of Chiang Mai.

Borsang

When Chiang Mai people think of Borsang they are most likely to simultaneously visualise one or more brightly coloured paper umbrellas. Umbrellas are inextricably associated with Borsang where villagers have been engaged in their manufacture for at least 200 years. This small town is home to artists and craftsmen who produce exquisite parasols, flowers, fans, lanterns and other handicrafts made from hand-painted saa paper (manufactured from the bark of the mulberry tree) silk, cotton and bamboo. All materials are produced or found locally. If you happen to be in Chiang Mai around the 20th of January you can catch the annual Borsang festival. During which locals parade their most beautiful creations for all to see. Visitors to Borsang will see literally hundreds of styles and sizes of umbrellas ranging from the miniature to the gigantic, decorated with traditional northern scripture to more funky modern tie-dyed designs.

Baan Tawai

Woodcarving is a traditional northern Thai art form and can be spotted all over; in the fretwork of traditional wooden houses to the shutters of the region's numerous temples. In more recent times it has been increasingly used to embellish furniture-screens, chairs, tables, beds, indeed anything bearing a wooden surface, large enough to be carved-as well as in carved elephants, figurines, tableware and other popular items. Baan Tawai village in Hang Dong district is hub of furniture production, which is distributed throughout the country. In this area whole streets are dedicated to the production and selling of wooden furniture. Visitors can find anything from high quality traditionally styled furniture to contemporary cutting-edge designs. Bespoke furniture is also common place and can be made at very reasonable costs. The principal materials used include teak, rosewood and rattan. The development of Hang Dong has been a Chiang Mai success story. Not many years ago Hang Dong consisted of a couple of shop-fronts and factories stretching as far as the eye could see, but now showrooms as sophisticated as any in Europe line the street. Hang Dong is an importer's heaven. Eleven kilometers south of Chiang Mai.

Walking Streets

Walking Streets: At walking street markets you can get a feel for daily life and culture in Chiang Mai. Enjoy local life's simple pleasures; strolling with friends, grabbing a refreshing drink or tasty snack and buying a few inexpensive items to take home. Roads are closed to traffic and with the colourful stalls, creative products, entertainment on offer and food and drinks for sale there is a festive vibe, making them places to not only buy things but fun events for shopping, eating, drinking and hanging out.

Kad Sum Murd (Midnight Market)

Kad Sum Murd, which means Midnight Market, takes place in front of Kad Suan Keaw department store on every Thursday to Saturday from 6 p.m.-11 p.m., it is lit up by candles creating a surreal shopping experience with a variety of cheap and cheerful products such as T-shirts, accessories and shoes. Around the market, apart from the large mall, there are beauty and massage parlours, international food chains, coffee shops and other restaurants.

The Wisdom of Lanna Arts & Craftsmen Walking Street

This market showcases art from 21 villages, including the Yong, a popular group from the north. The Yong are known for their unique handicraft techniques. They are famous for their elephant wood carvings, bamboo products, souvenirs, for drawing pictures on cloth, creating dolls made from cloth, and more. This fair is at Buak Kang, Sankampaeng District, every Saturday from 4 p.m.-11 p.m., the fair covers a distance of four kilometres, offering a wonderful variety of ethnic products and exhibitions on these peoples ways of life.

Wualai Walking Street

At Wualai Road every Saturday from 5 p.m.- late. The famed old silver street sells souvenirs, silver products, home decor and more. At the market you can get a Thai massage or foot massage in between shopping. There are also a number of musicians on a makeshift stage.

Ratchadamnoen Walking Street

At Tha Pae Gate and along Ratchdamnoen Road and through the heart of the Old City, every Sunday from 5 p.m.- midnight. This has become one of the main attractions in Chiang Mai, but, unlike other tourist shopping areas, hasn't become jaded. The products are mainly homemade local crafts, but you will find literally all sorts of stuff and we doubt anyone will go home empty handed. This is a popular spot for locals as well, which keeps the prices down and the atmosphere fresh. The perfect place to spend a Sunday evening, shopping, drinking, eating, watching the crowd go by, enjoying buskers, sales, artists, etc. It can become quite crowded, however the buzz at the market is so good it's something not to miss in Chiang Mai.

Nimmanhaemin

Nimmanhaemin is an ultra cool part of town and a place you must visit if you like to be in vogue. This area has not only the most hip little boutique stores, but also trendy places to get a coffee with latte art, designer ice cream and state-of-the-art cocktails. Soi 1 has some adorable art-galleries-come-boutique-shops which provide many photo opportunities. As you explore the main road and minor streets you will come across many independent and chain retailers, restaurants serving Thai and international cuisine, pubs and wine bars. Nimmanhaemin is a place to see and be seen. Not the cheapest area, but its more exclusive feel makes it very popular. West side of town, towards Chiang Mai University.

Tha Pae Area

Around the public square area next to Tha Pae Gate in central Chiang Mai there are many shops to explore. This location is home to some of Chiang Mai's most prestigious brands. There are shops selling second-hand books, home furnishings, jewellery, clothes and souvenirs. There are also many coffee shops, restaurants, bars, massages places, tour and trip agencies and places to hire bikes and cars. Although this is the main tourist area, it still makes for a convenient meeting place and if you explore down nearby streets you will most definitely come across some more unique and independent businesses.

Shopping Malls

Kad Suan Kaew and Central Airport Plaza are both massive shopping malls. Malls are popular with Thais for their convenience and cool air-conditioned atmospheres.

Kad Suan Kaew is more central on Huay Kaew Road, it has a bit of an 80s feel, which can be endearing. Here you can find most essentials such as bathroom products, clothes, food and assorted appliances. There is a main department store where branded and more high quality goods can be bought, such as lingerie, perfume, make-up, sports equipment, clothes, shoes watches, sunglasses and bags. There are also lots of individual shops, international chain stores and fast food retailers. On the ground floor there are many shops selling mobile phones and also places to get photos printed, passport photos taken and CDs burnt. Throughout the mall there are telecommunication network centres, an Apple store and repair centre, banks and places to exchange currency. There is a supermarket in the basement and a cinema upstairs.

Central Airport Plaza is a little out of the city centre, near the airport, but shouldn't cost much to reach by red car. This place has a similar set up to Kad Suan Kaew, but is a more modern and swish version. Most locals also prefer the more state of the art cinemas here too. Like Kad Suan Kaew, Central Airport Plaza, also referred to as simply Airport, has two large food hall areas, where visitors can buy coupons and select from a large range of delicious inexpensive foods from the resident proprietors.

JJ Market

JJ market was intended as a gathering place of Chiang Mai's finest arts, craft products, clothing, accessories for garden or house, luxurious and unique home décor and souvenirs, sadly it hasn't quite managed to gather the crowds as expected. However, if you are looking for quality arts and crafts or second hand and retro furniture it can be worth a visit. Located on Atsadathorn Road, considered as the most modern public utility road with all of the power lines embedded underground, this 15- rai Kad or Open Market is only 200 metres from the Super Highway. There are a few coffee chains, restaurants and pubs in the area. The market place is also often used as venue hosting numerous types of events.

Riverside Area

Turn left after crossing the Nawarat Bridge on to Charoenrat Road. This area is a popular nightlife spot for locals and tourists. However, during the daytime it is a nice place to take a stroll around and look at the shops, many of which are situated in architecturally beautiful buildings, both colonial and oriental styles. On this street parallel to the Ping River you will find shops selling antiques, saa paper and home-decor. There are also some small art galleries, quaint coffee shops and tea rooms and some trendy restaurants and bars.

Second Hand Market near Prince Royal's College

The market runs every Saturday and Sunday from late morning until afternoon around 3-4 p.m. You can access the market through Rattanakosin Road or Kaew Nawarat Road. The majority of goods on sale are second hand or retro style and are sold directly from passionate collectors. You will find anything from old TVs, phones, radios, electric appliances and spares to CDs, gramophones records, old tapes and video cassettes, used furniture, books, Buddha images, camera, clothes, toys, posters and much more.

Nar Mor Market

This bright and playful market is situated across the road from Chiang Mai University's front gates. It's main patrons are young people and students. At the market you can purchase imitation perfumes, funky fashion from individual designers and unique snacks created by stall holders. There are small shops doing nail and hair extensions. There are also lots of good cheap restaurants. A fun place to observe Thai student life.

Lang Mor

On the road up to the back entrance of Chiang Mai University there are many stalls set up every evening, where students and locals come to buy food, clothes and nickknacks. The prices are low. The street also has various shops, restaurants and businesses that may be useful, such as internet cafes, a dentist and photocopy shops.

Rincome Market

Rincome Market is on the the Huay Kaew side of the Rincome Intersection. This market does offbeat and quirky fashion, household wares and accessories. There are a few second hand shops selling vintage clothing and bags, tattoo parlours, a bar and a few cafes. The market has a bit of a grungy, punk and alternative style, you will also notice this is a hangout place for people following these trends.

Warorot Market (Kad Luang)

This is Chiang Mai's main central market and is located next to the Ping River. There is one main indoor market and many outside stalls covering a large area of nearby streets and pavements. At this market you can buy almost everything from food and fruit to clothes, fabric and household items. There are many permanent shops in the area selling gold jewellery, domestic appliances, cosmetics, toiletries and more. The flower market quarter is near to the river, visitors are sure to be amazed at the amount and range of dazzling flora and fauna which is sold very cheaply. This is an important place to see the real Thailand, where the market is at the pulse of Thai society and culture. Another spot of interest in this area is the Chinese temple near the riverside.

Ton Payom Market and Suthep Road

The market is situated on the Irrigation Canal Road at the Suthep Road Intersection (behind Tesco Express). This fresh market displays a wealth of colourful local agricultural produce, flowers- usually bought to make religious offerings, pre-cooked foods and northern Thai delicacies. This market is also a good place to stock up on cheap household items such as crockery, cooking equipment, mats and towels.

Across the road from the market on the opposite side of the intersection is the Royal Project Shop and Cafe. This stylish building sells produce from the Thai King's Doi Kham food project. On offer is a range of high quality fruit and vegetables, nuts, Thai coffee and tea, honey, jam and other goodies.

On the section of Suthep Road in between Wat Suan Dok and the intersection there are many popular restaurants and stalls selling Thai, Chinese and vegetarian foods and snacks. Popular dishes on this street include khao tom (rice soup) sold with a range of tasty sides, noodle shops, jok (congee), sarapao (steamed dumplings) and plaa tong goo (deep fried Chinese doughnuts).

Opposite Wat Suan Dok Hostpital there are many places to buy Thai sweets, snacks and fruits. There are a number of large pharmacies selling medical equipment and drugs, and also fresh flower shops, beautiful bouquets can be bought at very reasonable prices.

San Pa Koi Market

Located on the San Pa Koi Intersection on Charoen Road. This is a fresh market selling fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, rice and other dry ingredients. It also sells pre-made food and is a popular place with locals for pre-cooked breakfast, dinner or lunch items. If you fancy sampling an authentic Chiang Mai breakfast eaten by northern Thai families you can buy all the components at San Pak Koi including; Chiang Mai sausage, nam prik num chilli paste, fried chicken, sticky rice and kaep moo (pork crackling.)

Big C, Tesco and Makro

There are a few branches of Big C, Tesco and Makro located in different parts of Chiang Mai. Tesco and Big C are super-come-hypermarkets selling everything from food and drinks to household items, electronic goods and clothes. Makro is a cash and carry type retailer selling large quantities of products for discounted prices, including food, household products and electrical goods. Big C Extra on the Chiang Mai-Lampang Road has a market which opens Thursdays-Saturdays and has many stalls selling foods, clothes, cosmetics and more.

Pantip Plaza

Pantip Plaza is at the end of the Night Bazaar on Chang Klan Road. Pantip specialises in computers, cameras, technology and gadgets. In the mall you can also come across pirate copies of computer programs, DVDs and CDs.

Mee Chok Plaza

Mee Chok Plaza has a large selection of independent and chain shops and restaurants, there is also a large Rimping supermarket and evening market stalls on a Monday and Tuesday night. This is a one-stop-shop shopping area, where you can have your nails done, get a massage, do your weekly food shop and even get a MacDonalds or Chinese duck to take home for dinner.

Season Fashion Mall

A daily market located near Poi Luang Intersection. Here you can shop for trendy clothes, cool nicknacks and yummy snacks.

Chiang Mai Festival

Chiang Mai Festivals & Events

Famous throughout Thailand for its hectic Songkran or Thai New Year festival in April which lasts for several days, Chiang Mai also has a number of other colourful events and festivals held throughout the year. Many include handicraft exhibitions and sales of local produce, in addition to the religious festivals and local customs. See below for details.

January

Bo Sang Umbrella Fair & Sankamphaeng Handicrafts Festival
Almost everyone in the small village of Bo Sang, near Chiang Mai is involved in making gaily painted paper umbrellas. The annual fair, held along the main street features contests, exhibitions, processions with cycling ladies holding umbrellas and handicraft stalls.
Bo Sang Village, Chiang Mai
Tawai Village Wood Carving Fair
Demonstrations, contests and stalls with wood carvings and local handicrafts. (Products can be ordered and made while the fair is in progress.) Also includes local folk performances and a procession highlighting the entire range of popular northern Thai wood crafts.
Tawai village, Hang Dong district.

February

Flower Carnival
Dazzling colour in this celebration of flowers. A gentle festival with a parade of intricately arranged flower floats, a beauty contest, flower displays, gardening techniques and flowers for sale. Throughout the main city streets and at Buak Hard Park.
Makha Bucha (Maha Puja)Day
An important Buddhist holiday honoring the event when 1,250 of Buddha's disciples spontaneously congregated to hear an important sermon. Buddhists carry flowers, lighted candles, and joss sticks while walking around a Chedi at the temple three times under the full moon.

April

Chiang Mai Songkran and Lannathai Festival
Tha Pae Gate and citywide, Chiang Mai
This traditional festival to welcome the Thai New Year, has become almost a legend. Large scale water throwing over each and every person! Thais also undertake the traditional aspects - visiting the temple, constructing sand chedis, and pouring lustral water over respected elders and Buddha images. After that, the water throwing begins in earnest and goes on for a about three days! Simply join in and go with the flow! April 12- 17
Chiang Mai Arts And Culture FestivalTha Dton Payom Market on Suthep Road, Chiang Mai
Aims to promote the image of Chiang Mai as an important art and cultural centre. Also aimed at encouraging the preservation of the area's cultural heritage for future generations. Includes demonstrations of activities from the Lanna period. Stalls selling various local items and northern food.
Early April.

May

Visakha Bucha Day
A Buddhist holiday, in commemoration of the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. Chiang Mai Buddhists walk up to Doi Suthep Temple at night to make merit.

August

H.M. The Queen's Birthday Celebrations. August 12, Nationwide.

September

Langsart Fair
This annual fruit fair is held in e Uttaradit province on the second or third weekend of the month. The usual parades and beauty contests are featured in this provincial fair.

Awk Pansa
Mae Hong Son celebration of the Buddhist holy day "Awk Pahnsa" which marks the end of both lent and the rainy season. Colourful, noisy processions, donations of food and necessities to monks.

October

Northern Lantern Festival: Displays of lanterns at the Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai.

November

Chiang Mai Loy Krathong (Yee Peng Festival) Held every year, Loy Krathong is the most charming of all Thai festivals. The custom of placing handmade floats decorated with flowers and candles on waterways goes back over 700 years to the Sukhothai historical period.
In the North, "Yee Peng" is celebrated for two nights under the full moon. As the moon rises on the second night, celebrations include a procession with floats through the city to the Ping River, boat races, and a beauty contest. Huge hot air lanterns similar to balloons are also launched into the night sky. Book early for tables at riverside restaurants. November 19 - 21
Sunflower Blooming Season
Great photo opportunities in Mae Hong Song province when the hillsides are covered with yellow sunflowers. Festival centred on Khun Yuam village by Doi Mae U-Khor, Mae Hong Son province.
3rd Northern Lantern Festival: Displays of lanterns at the Night Bazaar, Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai Mardi GrasStage shows, beer and food festival, annual music awards. Held during the evening on Changklan Road at the Night Bazaar

December

H.M The King's Birthday. Nationwide celebrations are nationwide tributes with gaily-lit buildings and streets. His birthday is also celebrated as "Fathers' Day" in Thailand. December 5
Rose Festival A popular Chiangmai celebration of the world's favourite flower. Exhibitions, culture performances and competitions held at Makro, Chiangmai. Dec 27-29
Christmas and New Year's Eve
Everywhere from first-class HOTELS TO corner beer bars celebrate in style. Dec 24-25, 31
Chiang Mai Red Cross and Winter Fair
This fair is the premier event for much of the province's agricultural population. Farmers and locals from miles around come to swap stories and goods. Chiangmai Provincial Hall. Also features a variety of products for sale, especially handicrafts, plus a show, beauty contest and games. Comes alive at night. Dec 28-Jan 8 04

From detail

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Chiang Mai Hotel