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Chiang Mai is an exotic city rich in cultural heritage. There are many things to see in the area. You might want to take an organized tour through a travel agent, such as Chiangmai Jasmine Travel or North Pearl Travel , or you could opt to do the sights on your own using a taxi (si-lor), bus or a rented vehicle from companies like Journey Co. Ltd. and North Wheels. Whichever you choose, here are five recommended itineraries you might want to consider.
The Old Walled City and Temple Trail. Scores of temples (wat) lie within the old walled city, most of them built during ancient times by the Lanna dynasty. Some of these reflect Burmese, Sri Lankan and Mon influences in their design. Wat Chedi Luang in the city center, on Prapoklao Road, is a good starting point. An earthquake partially destroyed the stupa here in 1545, but it still retains a certain charm. Legend has it that it was here that King Mengrai was struck by lightning! On Ratchdamnoen-Singharaj Road stands Wat Phra Singh, where devotees flock during Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and home to the Crystal Buddha. Your route can continue either along Suthep Road or Huay Kaew Road. Suthep Road leads to Wat Suan Dok in the gardens of the Lanna royal residence. Further down is a zoo that also serves as the Observation Studies Center on Animals and the Natural Environment. Nearby lies Wat Umong, an interesting temple in a forest park, and itself a center of meditation. The trail from Huay Kaew Road leads toward the Superhighway, which takes you to Wat Jed Yod, a fifteenth century temple with seven spires and an Indian-inspired architecture. Alongside is the National Museum.
The Suthep Mountain Route. Chiang Mai’s most prominent natural landmark, Suthep Mountain, is easily accessed by Huay Kaew Road. On the way, drop by Chiang Mai Zoo or Huay Kaew Waterfall. At the foot of the moutain lies Khruba Srivichai Monument, built in memory of one of Thailand’s most revered monks. Devotees seek blessings here before driving up to the holy temple, Wat Phra Tat Doi Suthep, famous for its artworks depicting the life of the Buddha and its golden spire. Opposite is the Orchid Jade Factory, with its selection of jade and other precious stones. A few minutes' drive takes you to Phu Phing Palace, the enchanting residence of the royal family. Top off the day by visiting the Meo Tribal Village.
San Kampaeng and Bor Sang Handicraft Village. Handicrafts from northern Thailand are famous throughout the world for their delicate designs and excellent quality. To view these beautiful creations, take the Superhighway to San Kampaeng Road. Check out Jolie Femme Thai Silk for garments and accessories. Antiques and decorative items may be viewed at Iyara Art and Arts & Crafts, ceramics at Prempracha's Collection, and blue and green celadon at Baan Celadon and Siam Celadon. For woodcarvings, try Eungkum Woodcarving and Chiang Mai Tusnaporn Co. Ltd. The Umbrella Making Centre makes typical northern Thai-style umbrellas, while local silver products can be purchased at Lanna Thai and Chiang Mai Silverware Patanaanunwong Co. Ltd. Other interesting venues nclude Bronze House for bronze, Meo Jaidee Studio for candles and Hill Tribe Resins & Dolls for traditional creations.
Hangdong-Samerng-Mae-Rim. A day trip to the south should be on every visitor's itinerary. Start on Route 108 or the Chiang Mai-Hang Dong Road, which is lined with beautiful temples and handicraft outlets such as Ban Chang Kham. As you drive toward Samerng, you will discover a beautiful hideaway amongst nature at Belle Villa Resort. From Samerng, take Mae-Rim Road back to Chiang Mai. This offers many interesting places to see. Visit the lush green Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden or the Mae Sa Elephant Training Camp, where shows are scheduled daily. Soon you will come to the refreshing Mae Sa Waterfall, Sai Nam Phung Orchid Nursery and Butterfly Farm, Mae Sa Butterfly and Orchid Farm and the Snake Farm. There is also Tita Gallery, which hosts regular exhibitions. Before continuing, enjoy a meal at Regent Resort and pamper yourself at the Lanna Spa. On the way back to the city, you will pass the Thai Buffalo Training Camp, the historical Dara Pirom Museum and the enchanting Tribal Museum located in the beautiful Rama IX Park.
Chiang Rai and Surrounding Areas. Approximately three hours from Chiang Mai lies another exotic city, Chiang Rai, dotted with several ancient monuments and temples. From here, take the route to Chiang Khong, a farming and fishing community on the banks of the Mekong River. North is the old fortress town of Chiang Saen, the first northern capital of Thailand. A twenty-minute drive takes you to the infamous Golden Triangle, poppy country, where Burma, Laos and Thailand all meet. Near here is Mae Sai, a bustling gem trading border town. You can cross to Tachilek on the Burmese side, but first check with the authorities that you are allowed to do so. An alternative route is to drive from Chiang Mai to Ban Tha Ton and then take a boat (Mae Kok River Boat Service) to Chiang Rai. This wonderful three-hour cruise down the river passes various hill tribe settlements, the most popular one being the elephant town of Ruammitr Village.
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 Chiang Mai Hotels Guide
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