In light of its optimal location as a gateway into the Northern provinces of Thailand, along with its small-town feel complemented by the perks of being
in a major city, Chiang Mai's appeal as a travel destination is truly impressive. Handicrafts, adventure sports and trekking, and provincial food are all in
full supply, always provided with a smile and often at amazing prices.
1. Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park has Thailand's largest peak, at more than 8,000 feet. It's located to the south of Chiang Mai, and much of its wildlife is
uniquely allocated only to this region. Visitors come for a cool weather retreat and to camp and watch the wildlife. Locals will tell you that it's a
welcome relief from the smoggy city air. Tours from Chiang Mai to this park are recommended.
2. Wat Phratat Doi Suthep
Anytime you meet a Chiang Mai local, they'll undoubtedly ask you if you've visited Doi Suthep yet. It's a hallmark of any trip to the city, and the views
from the summit are spectacular. Climb the 300-step flight of stairs or take a lift to see the restored 14th century chedi which hides sacred relics, and
stroll around the marble courtyard. One of Thailand’s most important temples!
3. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Open every night from dusk until midnight, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar has achieved legendary status worldwide for its sheer volume and low prices.
At the centre of all Chiang Mai maps, it's located on Chang Klan road and stays open every evening until midnight. Products you'll find here include
silver, antiques, jewellery and every kind of knock-off designer item you could want. Many of the Chiang Mai hotels are conveniently located here.
4. Thai massage and spas
You'll have no problem finding a place to get a massage or a beauty treatment in Chiang Mai. Hotels even offer spas in house now. Everywhere you
go, you will see signs inviting you to relax for a foot massage, whole body massage or spa treatment. The quality and price vary quite a bit depending
on where you go, and some of the best values can be found by word of mouth or by simply sizing up the location and facility before you commit
yourself. When in Thailand this is one good value activity you must try.
5. A trip to Mae Sa
Mae Sa is well-known for its seven-tiered waterfall as well as for the variety of tourist attractions and performances that are put on in the area. Visitors
can ride elephants at the highly popular Mae Sa Elephant Camp, and the star performers even stage a football match for spectators. There's a monkey
show, a snake farm and a dog show here as well. Taxis and tuk-tuks can be chartered for the 30-minute drive. Follow any tourist maps of Chiang Mai
northwards out of the city. Your hotels concierge can arrange the trip.
6. The Old City
A walking or biking tour of the Old City allows more intimate connections with the living remnants of Chiang Mai's rich history. Wat Chedi Luang is the
most important temple in the city and it contains the great chedi that was once brought down by an earthquake in the 16th century; Wat Phrasingh is
made in a classic, Northern Thai style; and Wat Chiang Mai is made completely of teak wood. Portions of the Old City wall have been restored,
specifically at the gates and corners, and the entire moat remains since its creation 700 years ago. It’s certainly more pleasant than strolling in
Bangkok.
7. Trekking
Most visitors to Chiang Mai will embark on some sort of trekking adventure. Countless tour guide operators can organise a package for you and trips
last anywhere from a full day to several nights, with accommodation provided by intermittent hill tribe villages. These journeys are pieced together with
segments of shuttling, hiking, rafting and riding (usually on elephants). It's one of the best ways to get out into the countryside for a new perspective.
Certainly a change to get of the Chiang Mai tourist map.
8. Courses and training
Whether you're a seasoned professional or only a beginner, Chiang Mai offers a wealth of classes and training in a variety of fields. The most popular
courses are in Thai cooking, Muay Thai (Thai kick boxing) and Thai massage. The social climate in Chiang Mai is conducive to staying for a while, and
many visitors choose to take a class while they get to know the city better. These are popular when visiting Thailand.
9. Adventure sports
After the chaos of Bangkok Cravers of adventures sports will not be disappointed in Chiang Mai. Rock climbers can hone their skills on the outdoor
wall next to the Night Bazaar before heading out to Crazy Horse Buttress. There's also the opportunity for white -rafting and mountain biking up Doi
Suthep. Some lower-key action can be found at the go-kart tracks.
10. Chiang Mai Zoo
The Chiang Mai Zoo is a great place to spend some time, not only in light of its 6,000 plus animals, but also because of its position on Doi Suthep
Mountain where you'll catch some great views of the city. Some of the animals include gibbons, elephants and two pandas on loan from China. The
latter have participated in several city festivals and are often featured in newspaper articles and other media.
Don’t forget to book you Chiang Mai hotels well in advance in the busy season.
About the Author
Andy Burrows is a web travel writer, he recommends; online guide to Chiang Mai – Northern Thailand Visiting Thailand
Source: http://www.propertyarticles.info/
Friday, April 25, 2008
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Tips for Songkran
Every year people in Thailand await Songkran, the country's longest holiday, with a great sense of anticipation. Here are some of the highlights planned nationwide this year.
BANGKOK (April 12-15)
The opening ceremony will take place April 12 during 6pm-9pm at the Wat Arun temple.
- Songkran rites representing four regions of the country will take place at Sanam Luang near the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
- Traditional splashing of water where participants will be wearing traditional Thai costume, venue: Khao San Road.
- A spate of activities presented by communities living in and around the Bang Lamphu area; venues are Santi Chaiprakarn Park, Phra Athit Road and Wisut Kasat on April 12-13.
- Offering of prayers at the nine royal temples around Rattanakosin Island from April 11-15 between 9am-6pm: they include Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho, Wat Suthat, Wat Sa Ket, Wat Bowon Niwet, Wat Chana Songkhram, Wat Rakhang, Wat Arun and Wat Kalayanamit.
- or details, ring the Events Planning Division of the Tourism Authority of Thailand at 02-250-5500 ext 3470 to 3 or its call centre at 1672.
AYUTTHAYA (April 13-14)
- Join the grand Songkran procession by riding elephants. The procession begins at 2pm from the old city centre and you can douse revellers with water while riding your mount. For details, call the Education Division of the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya municipality at 035-252-168.
RATCHABURI (April 12-16)
- Enjoy Songkran at Siam Cultural Park which will be showcasing various activities, including handicraft making, or enjoy exploring the park's leafy environment. For details, call 032-381-401 to 4 or visit http://www.scppark.com.
PHETCHABURI (April 12-20)
- Phra Nakhon Khiri Palace is the main venue of celebrations from April 14-16. Moreover, there will be ox-cart racing in categories such as speed and beauty in the field at the entrance to Wat Tham Rong, Ban Lat, Phetchaburi.
- Other fun activities include contests involving catching pigs with bare hands, wrestling with bulls, climbing palmyra trees and other events.
PATTAYA (April 18-19)
- At 8am on April 19 there will be a procession along the beach in which spectators can bathe Buddha statues, followed by fun games, art and cultural performances, Miss Songkran pageant, rice harvesting contest and so forth. For details, call Pattaya City at 038-371-116 to 9 or TAT's Central Region III Office at 038-427-667, 038-428-750.
BANG SAEN (April 16-17)
- Celebrations feature the offering of alms to monks, paying homage to the elderly, folk competitions and splashing water along the beach at Bang Saen, and on April 16 there will be a competition involving the building of chedis from sand.
NONG KHAI (April 12-18)
- The northeastern province is staging Thai-Lao Songkran Festival at Wat Pho Chai. The highlight is a food street and on April 13 at 7am you can join a parade featuring a statue of well-known Thai-Lao monk, Luang Pho Phra Sai. For details, call the Nong Khai provincial office at 042-412-678 or TAT's Northeastern Region V Office at 042-325-406/7.
CHIANG MAI (April 12-15)
- The Ministry of Tourism and Sports will kick off the celebrations April 12 at 7am at the Royal Flora Garden (Ratchaphruek) by offering rice alms to 99 monks. On April 13 at 2pm there will be a procession from Naowarat Bridge to Wat Phra Sing featuring bathing rites for Phra Phuttasihing and a Miss Songkran beauty contest. For details, call the municipality at 053-259-000 or TAT's Northern Region I Office at 053-248-604, 053-248-607.
SUKHOTHAI (April 8-12)
- The highlight is a procession of 30 elephants crossing the Yom River to Si Satchanalai Historical Park at 3pm. For details, call the park office 055-671-466, 055-679-153 or TAT's Northern Region III Office at 055-252-742/3.
From www.bangkokpost.com THANIN WEERADET
BANGKOK (April 12-15)
The opening ceremony will take place April 12 during 6pm-9pm at the Wat Arun temple.
- Songkran rites representing four regions of the country will take place at Sanam Luang near the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
- Traditional splashing of water where participants will be wearing traditional Thai costume, venue: Khao San Road.
- A spate of activities presented by communities living in and around the Bang Lamphu area; venues are Santi Chaiprakarn Park, Phra Athit Road and Wisut Kasat on April 12-13.
- Offering of prayers at the nine royal temples around Rattanakosin Island from April 11-15 between 9am-6pm: they include Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho, Wat Suthat, Wat Sa Ket, Wat Bowon Niwet, Wat Chana Songkhram, Wat Rakhang, Wat Arun and Wat Kalayanamit.
- or details, ring the Events Planning Division of the Tourism Authority of Thailand at 02-250-5500 ext 3470 to 3 or its call centre at 1672.
AYUTTHAYA (April 13-14)
- Join the grand Songkran procession by riding elephants. The procession begins at 2pm from the old city centre and you can douse revellers with water while riding your mount. For details, call the Education Division of the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya municipality at 035-252-168.
RATCHABURI (April 12-16)
- Enjoy Songkran at Siam Cultural Park which will be showcasing various activities, including handicraft making, or enjoy exploring the park's leafy environment. For details, call 032-381-401 to 4 or visit http://www.scppark.com.
PHETCHABURI (April 12-20)
- Phra Nakhon Khiri Palace is the main venue of celebrations from April 14-16. Moreover, there will be ox-cart racing in categories such as speed and beauty in the field at the entrance to Wat Tham Rong, Ban Lat, Phetchaburi.
- Other fun activities include contests involving catching pigs with bare hands, wrestling with bulls, climbing palmyra trees and other events.
PATTAYA (April 18-19)
- At 8am on April 19 there will be a procession along the beach in which spectators can bathe Buddha statues, followed by fun games, art and cultural performances, Miss Songkran pageant, rice harvesting contest and so forth. For details, call Pattaya City at 038-371-116 to 9 or TAT's Central Region III Office at 038-427-667, 038-428-750.
BANG SAEN (April 16-17)
- Celebrations feature the offering of alms to monks, paying homage to the elderly, folk competitions and splashing water along the beach at Bang Saen, and on April 16 there will be a competition involving the building of chedis from sand.
NONG KHAI (April 12-18)
- The northeastern province is staging Thai-Lao Songkran Festival at Wat Pho Chai. The highlight is a food street and on April 13 at 7am you can join a parade featuring a statue of well-known Thai-Lao monk, Luang Pho Phra Sai. For details, call the Nong Khai provincial office at 042-412-678 or TAT's Northeastern Region V Office at 042-325-406/7.
CHIANG MAI (April 12-15)
- The Ministry of Tourism and Sports will kick off the celebrations April 12 at 7am at the Royal Flora Garden (Ratchaphruek) by offering rice alms to 99 monks. On April 13 at 2pm there will be a procession from Naowarat Bridge to Wat Phra Sing featuring bathing rites for Phra Phuttasihing and a Miss Songkran beauty contest. For details, call the municipality at 053-259-000 or TAT's Northern Region I Office at 053-248-604, 053-248-607.
SUKHOTHAI (April 8-12)
- The highlight is a procession of 30 elephants crossing the Yom River to Si Satchanalai Historical Park at 3pm. For details, call the park office 055-671-466, 055-679-153 or TAT's Northern Region III Office at 055-252-742/3.
From www.bangkokpost.com THANIN WEERADET
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Wellcome to Chiangrai
Mueang Chiang Rai (Thai: เชียงราย; locally (Kham Muang) Ciang Hai; (Lao) also Xieng Hai) is a city in Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai Province in northern Thailand.
Geography
Geographical location 19°56′N, 99°51′E. Muang Chiang Rai is 200 km northeast of Muang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai Province; 62 km south of Mae Sai and the Myanmar border; 60 km southwest of Chiang Saen on the Mae Khong across from the People's Democratic Republic of Laos; and 90 km north of Nakhon Phayao, Phayao Province.
The Mae Kok River runs along its north side, flowing from west to east and eventually merging with the Mekong River.
Demographics
Population 62,000.
12.5% of the population belong to the hill tribes, a collective term for the minority ethnic groups in the North of Thailand such as the Karen, Akha, Lisu, Meo and Muser. Many Chinese, particularly from Yunnan Province, have migrated to the area and assimilated with the Thai population to such extent that well over half of the large businesses in northern Thailand are owned by people of Chinese heritage.[citation needed]
Government
Chiang Rai is the capital of Chiang Rai Province.
The Salaklang Changwat 19°54.805′N, 99°49.615′E holds the Provincial Offices.
The Municipal Offices are in the Thesaban 19°54′34″, N°99′49″39.
History
Sadu Meuang, Omphalos of the City
The city was founded by King Mengrai in 1262 and became the first capital of the Lannathai kingdom. However, it lost this status soon after to a new city built by Mengrai at Chiang Mai. Subsequently, Chiang Rai was conquered by Burma and remained under Burmese rule for several hundred years. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became Thai territory. It was proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rama VI in 1910.
In 1432 the Phra Kaeo, or Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most revered Buddha figure, was discovered in Chiang Rai when an earthquake split the Chedi at Wat Phra Kaeo. The beautiful jade figure was then seen concealed within.
In 1992 (B.E. 2535) the City Pillar was moved from Wat Klang Wiang to Doi Chom Thong, where it is known as Sadu Meuang (TH: สะดือเมือง), the Navel or Omphalos of the City.
Buddhist temples
Wat Rong Khun
Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong, 19°54.970′N, 99°49.365′E
Wat Phra Kaew, Chiang Rai, 19°54.704′N, 99°49.647′E
Wat Phra Sing, Chiang Rai, 19°54.653′N, 99°49.882′E
Wat Doi Khao Khwai, 19°52.892′N, 99°48.582′E
Wat Rong Khun, 19°49.480′N, 99°45.800′E, a modern temple built since 1998 by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat
Tourist attractions
Princess Mother Hall and Doi Mae Salong Located about 70 km northwest of Chiang Rai accessed by a scenic, and sometimes quite steep, road from Mae Chan. In Mae Salong there is a museum of the Kuo Min Tang and their plight after exiled from China by Mao Zedong, and subsequently forced to leave Burma from where they entered Thailand, helping at times to fight the Communists.
Doi Tung Royal Villa is the final residence of the mother of the King of Thailand, known as the Princess Mother. It is located at kilometre 12 on highway 1149, to the west of highway 1. This magnificent villa was built on the mountain overlooking the surrounding hills and valleys in a unique mix of Swiss and Lanna architectural styles. Adjacent to the villa is a large flower-filled garden, and a memorial hall commemorating the Princess Mother.
Doi Tung Zoo
Phucheefah
The Gate of Siam is a location on the border with Laos where one can stand high up on a mountain with Laos directly in front and the mighty Mekong River flowing beneath.
Panoramic view of Phucheefah point
Education
Colleges and universities
Mae Fah Luang University
Chiang Rai Rajabhat University
Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, Chiang Rai Campus
High Schools
Samakkhi Wittayakom School 19°54.314′N, 99°49.598′E
Primary Schools
Bansonkong School 19°54.045′N, 99°49.671′E
Piti Suksa Montessori School 19°55.400′N, 99°49.950′E
[ http://www.amecschool.net ]
Hospitals
Overbrook Hospital (Semi-Private) Easy access from city center, modern facility founded 1903 by Dr. Joseph Kampol, a missionary hospital, current president Dr. Ploum.
Sriburin Hospital (Private, and comparatively better quality)[citation needed]
Chiang Rai Prachanukhro Hospital (Public)
Transportation
Route 1 runs from Bangkok through Chiang Rai to Mae Sai on the Myanmar border. Chiang Rai is 839 kilometers from Bangkok, about 14 hours by car or by bus. According to official bus schedules, the bus ride to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai takes approximately an hour and 30 minutes, however the 175 km trip most often takes at least two and a half hours.
Several flights are available to and from Bangkok daily. Chiang Rai International Airport flight time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
There is scheduled boat service between Chiang Rai and Thaton in Chiang Mai province daily.
There are currently no rail services to Chiang Rai as the railway line from Bangkok ends at Chiang Mai. There have been talks of extending the rail line to Chiang Rai in the near future,[citation needed] but this is unlikely to happen as the city's population is well below 1 million and there isn't as many international tourists visiting Chiang Rai as Chiang Mai
Geography
Geographical location 19°56′N, 99°51′E. Muang Chiang Rai is 200 km northeast of Muang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai Province; 62 km south of Mae Sai and the Myanmar border; 60 km southwest of Chiang Saen on the Mae Khong across from the People's Democratic Republic of Laos; and 90 km north of Nakhon Phayao, Phayao Province.
The Mae Kok River runs along its north side, flowing from west to east and eventually merging with the Mekong River.
Demographics
Population 62,000.
12.5% of the population belong to the hill tribes, a collective term for the minority ethnic groups in the North of Thailand such as the Karen, Akha, Lisu, Meo and Muser. Many Chinese, particularly from Yunnan Province, have migrated to the area and assimilated with the Thai population to such extent that well over half of the large businesses in northern Thailand are owned by people of Chinese heritage.[citation needed]
Government
Chiang Rai is the capital of Chiang Rai Province.
The Salaklang Changwat 19°54.805′N, 99°49.615′E holds the Provincial Offices.
The Municipal Offices are in the Thesaban 19°54′34″, N°99′49″39.
History
Sadu Meuang, Omphalos of the City
The city was founded by King Mengrai in 1262 and became the first capital of the Lannathai kingdom. However, it lost this status soon after to a new city built by Mengrai at Chiang Mai. Subsequently, Chiang Rai was conquered by Burma and remained under Burmese rule for several hundred years. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became Thai territory. It was proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rama VI in 1910.
In 1432 the Phra Kaeo, or Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most revered Buddha figure, was discovered in Chiang Rai when an earthquake split the Chedi at Wat Phra Kaeo. The beautiful jade figure was then seen concealed within.
In 1992 (B.E. 2535) the City Pillar was moved from Wat Klang Wiang to Doi Chom Thong, where it is known as Sadu Meuang (TH: สะดือเมือง), the Navel or Omphalos of the City.
Buddhist temples
Wat Rong Khun
Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong, 19°54.970′N, 99°49.365′E
Wat Phra Kaew, Chiang Rai, 19°54.704′N, 99°49.647′E
Wat Phra Sing, Chiang Rai, 19°54.653′N, 99°49.882′E
Wat Doi Khao Khwai, 19°52.892′N, 99°48.582′E
Wat Rong Khun, 19°49.480′N, 99°45.800′E, a modern temple built since 1998 by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat
Tourist attractions
Princess Mother Hall and Doi Mae Salong Located about 70 km northwest of Chiang Rai accessed by a scenic, and sometimes quite steep, road from Mae Chan. In Mae Salong there is a museum of the Kuo Min Tang and their plight after exiled from China by Mao Zedong, and subsequently forced to leave Burma from where they entered Thailand, helping at times to fight the Communists.
Doi Tung Royal Villa is the final residence of the mother of the King of Thailand, known as the Princess Mother. It is located at kilometre 12 on highway 1149, to the west of highway 1. This magnificent villa was built on the mountain overlooking the surrounding hills and valleys in a unique mix of Swiss and Lanna architectural styles. Adjacent to the villa is a large flower-filled garden, and a memorial hall commemorating the Princess Mother.
Doi Tung Zoo
Phucheefah
The Gate of Siam is a location on the border with Laos where one can stand high up on a mountain with Laos directly in front and the mighty Mekong River flowing beneath.
Panoramic view of Phucheefah point
Education
Colleges and universities
Mae Fah Luang University
Chiang Rai Rajabhat University
Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, Chiang Rai Campus
High Schools
Samakkhi Wittayakom School 19°54.314′N, 99°49.598′E
Primary Schools
Bansonkong School 19°54.045′N, 99°49.671′E
Piti Suksa Montessori School 19°55.400′N, 99°49.950′E
[ http://www.amecschool.net ]
Hospitals
Overbrook Hospital (Semi-Private) Easy access from city center, modern facility founded 1903 by Dr. Joseph Kampol, a missionary hospital, current president Dr. Ploum.
Sriburin Hospital (Private, and comparatively better quality)[citation needed]
Chiang Rai Prachanukhro Hospital (Public)
Transportation
Route 1 runs from Bangkok through Chiang Rai to Mae Sai on the Myanmar border. Chiang Rai is 839 kilometers from Bangkok, about 14 hours by car or by bus. According to official bus schedules, the bus ride to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai takes approximately an hour and 30 minutes, however the 175 km trip most often takes at least two and a half hours.
Several flights are available to and from Bangkok daily. Chiang Rai International Airport flight time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
There is scheduled boat service between Chiang Rai and Thaton in Chiang Mai province daily.
There are currently no rail services to Chiang Rai as the railway line from Bangkok ends at Chiang Mai. There have been talks of extending the rail line to Chiang Rai in the near future,[citation needed] but this is unlikely to happen as the city's population is well below 1 million and there isn't as many international tourists visiting Chiang Rai as Chiang Mai
Wat Umong
Wat Umong is a 700 year old Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is located against the mountains of Doi Suthep and is south of Chiang Mai University.
Wat Umong is unique in that the resident monks live in a very natural setting, and occasionally feed the deer that live in the area. There are tunnels with Buddhist images below the chedi which can be easily explored. Signs and saying hang from the trees on footpaths leading to the small lake where fish and turtles can be fed
Wat Umong is unique in that the resident monks live in a very natural setting, and occasionally feed the deer that live in the area. There are tunnels with Buddhist images below the chedi which can be easily explored. Signs and saying hang from the trees on footpaths leading to the small lake where fish and turtles can be fed
Chiangmai Thailand
Chiang Mai, also sometimes written as "Chiengmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, and is the capital of Chiang Mai Province. It is located at 18°47′20″N, 98°59′00″ECoordinates: 18°47′20″N, 98°59′00″E, some 700 km (435 mi) north of Bangkok, among some of the highest mountains in the country. The city stands on the Ping river, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya river.In recent years, Chiang Mai has become an increasingly modern city, although it lacks the cosmopolitan nChiang Mai, also sometimes written as "Chiengmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, and is the capital of Chiang Mai Province. It is located at 18°47′20″N, 98°59′00″ECoordinates: 18°47′20″N, 98°59′00″E, some 700 km (435 mi) north of Bangkok, among some of the highest mountains in the country. The city stands on the Ping river, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya river.In recent years, Chiang Mai has become an increasingly modern city, although it lacks the cosmopolitan nature of Bangkok. It has many attractions for the thousands of foreign visitors who come each year. Chiang Mai's historic importance is derived from its important strategic location on an ancient trade route. Long before the modern influx of foreign visitors, the city served as an important centre for handcrafted goods, umbrellas, jewelry (particularly silver) and woodcarving.While officially the city (thesaban nakhon) of Chiang Mai only covers most parts of the Mueang Chiang Mai district with a population of 150,000, the urban sprawl of the city now extends into several neighboring districts. This Chiang Mai Metropolitan Area has a population of almost 700,000 people, nearly half the total of Chiang Mai Province. The city itself is subdivided into 4 wards: Nakhon Ping, Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kavila. The first three wards are on the west bank, while Kavila is located on the east back of Ping River. Nakhon Ping ward covers the north side of the city. Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kavila cover the west, south, and east side respectively. The central part(old town) is covered mostly by Srivijaya ward and partly by Nakhon Ping and Mengrai wards. See the map of Chiangmai City wardsform wikipediaature of Bangkok. It has many attractions for the thousands of foreign visitors who come each year. Chiang Mai's historic importance is derived from its important strategic location on an ancient trade route. Long before the modern influx of foreign visitors, the city served as an important centre for handcrafted goods, umbrellas, jewelry (particularly silver) and woodcarving.While officially the city (thesaban nakhon) of Chiang Mai only covers most parts of the Mueang Chiang Mai district with a population of 150,000, the urban sprawl of the city now extends into several neighboring districts. This Chiang Mai Metropolitan Area has a population of almost 700,000 people, nearly half the total of Chiang Mai Province. The city itself is subdivided into 4 wards: Nakhon Ping, Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kavila. The first three wards are on the west bank, while Kavila is located on the east back of Ping River. Nakhon Ping ward covers the north side of the city. Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kavila cover the west, south, and east side respectively. The central part(old town) is covered mostly by Srivijaya ward and partly by Nakhon Ping and Mengrai wards. See the map of Chiangmai City wardsform wikipedia
Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park
General Information
Doi Inthanon National Park covers the areas of Sanpatong District, Chomthong District, Mae Chaem District, Mae Wang District, and Toi Lor Sub-district of Chiang Mai Province within an approximate area of 482 square kilometers. The National Park consists of high mountains, including Doi Inthanon, which is the highest mountaintop in Thailand and the source of many rivers such as Ping River, where the Bhumipol Dam is situated and generating the electrical power. The National Park has beautiful natural scenery such as waterfalls, particularly Mae Ya Waterfall, which is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand.Historically, the mountain of Doi Inthanon was refered to as Doi Ang Ka. Prince Intharawichayanon, the last ruler of Chiang Mai, realized the importance of the country’s forests, especially in the north, where the forest serve as the watershed for the country. He was interested in helping and supporting people who were investigating the history in his area. So he requested that his body must be placed on the summit of Doi Ang Ka. After his death, the mountain was renamed Inthanon, a short version of his name. Today, visitors can see the Inthanon Wichayanon stupa on the summit of Doi Ang Ka.
Topography
The geographical features of the National Park consists of high mountains, including Doi Inthanon, which is the highest mountaintop in Thailand (2,565 meters above the sea level), followed by Doi Huamodluang (2,330 meters above the sea level). Doi Inthanon is the source of many rivers including Mae Klang, Mae Pakong, Mae Pon, Mae Hoi, Mae Ya, Mae Chaem, Mae Khan, and being part of Ping River, where the Bhumipol Dam is situated and generating the electrical power.
Climate
Since the National Park is located at 2,565 meters above the sea level, it has cold weather and high humidity throughout the year, particularly on the top of the National Park. In winter, the temperature at the National Park is below 0�ac. And in summer, despite hot weather in central Chiang Mai and nearby districts, it is still freezing on the top of Doi Inthanon and tourists should be prepared with thick clothes.
Flora and Fauna
The forest in the park is one of the country’s very significance and valuable heritage. Forests include Moist Evergreen Forest, Pine forest and Mixed Deciduous Forest, worth in economic like teak and mountain pine. Dipterocarp spp. Xylia xylocarpa, Pterocarpus, macrocapus Terminalia sp. and Lagerstroemia sp. to name a few. In addition to these, there are many beautiful flowers including vanda orchid, phycastylis and rhododendron. Sphagnum Moss and osmanda fern are found at higher levels in the park. fifty years ago, the mountain peaks were home of hill tribe people. The biggest village was Ban Khun Klang, whose agriculture method was often destructive to the forest ecosystem. Currently the several Royal Projects, assists the villagers in growing cold-climate fruit such as strawberries, grapes and apples as well as flowers. The number of wild animals in the park is decreasing the encroachment. The animals are hunted and their habitats are destroyed for agriculture. The remaining animals include serpent, gibbons, tigers, deer, wild boars, Siamese hares and Red Jungle fowls.Because of its broad altitudinal range and the cool climate of its upper reaches, the park supports the largest number of bird species of any site in Thailand. The Center for Wildlife Research at Mahidol University records a present total of 362 species and expects addition many at the summit are migrants from northern Asia. Species restricted to Doi Inthanon are Ashy-throated Warbler and an endemic race of the Green-tailed Sunbird; the park is the only site where the Chestnut-bellied Rock-Thrush and the Yellow-bellied Flower pecker are known to over summer and probably breed.From Doi Inthanon National Park
General Information
Doi Inthanon National Park covers the areas of Sanpatong District, Chomthong District, Mae Chaem District, Mae Wang District, and Toi Lor Sub-district of Chiang Mai Province within an approximate area of 482 square kilometers. The National Park consists of high mountains, including Doi Inthanon, which is the highest mountaintop in Thailand and the source of many rivers such as Ping River, where the Bhumipol Dam is situated and generating the electrical power. The National Park has beautiful natural scenery such as waterfalls, particularly Mae Ya Waterfall, which is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand.Historically, the mountain of Doi Inthanon was refered to as Doi Ang Ka. Prince Intharawichayanon, the last ruler of Chiang Mai, realized the importance of the country’s forests, especially in the north, where the forest serve as the watershed for the country. He was interested in helping and supporting people who were investigating the history in his area. So he requested that his body must be placed on the summit of Doi Ang Ka. After his death, the mountain was renamed Inthanon, a short version of his name. Today, visitors can see the Inthanon Wichayanon stupa on the summit of Doi Ang Ka.
Topography
The geographical features of the National Park consists of high mountains, including Doi Inthanon, which is the highest mountaintop in Thailand (2,565 meters above the sea level), followed by Doi Huamodluang (2,330 meters above the sea level). Doi Inthanon is the source of many rivers including Mae Klang, Mae Pakong, Mae Pon, Mae Hoi, Mae Ya, Mae Chaem, Mae Khan, and being part of Ping River, where the Bhumipol Dam is situated and generating the electrical power.
Climate
Since the National Park is located at 2,565 meters above the sea level, it has cold weather and high humidity throughout the year, particularly on the top of the National Park. In winter, the temperature at the National Park is below 0�ac. And in summer, despite hot weather in central Chiang Mai and nearby districts, it is still freezing on the top of Doi Inthanon and tourists should be prepared with thick clothes.
Flora and Fauna
The forest in the park is one of the country’s very significance and valuable heritage. Forests include Moist Evergreen Forest, Pine forest and Mixed Deciduous Forest, worth in economic like teak and mountain pine. Dipterocarp spp. Xylia xylocarpa, Pterocarpus, macrocapus Terminalia sp. and Lagerstroemia sp. to name a few. In addition to these, there are many beautiful flowers including vanda orchid, phycastylis and rhododendron. Sphagnum Moss and osmanda fern are found at higher levels in the park. fifty years ago, the mountain peaks were home of hill tribe people. The biggest village was Ban Khun Klang, whose agriculture method was often destructive to the forest ecosystem. Currently the several Royal Projects, assists the villagers in growing cold-climate fruit such as strawberries, grapes and apples as well as flowers. The number of wild animals in the park is decreasing the encroachment. The animals are hunted and their habitats are destroyed for agriculture. The remaining animals include serpent, gibbons, tigers, deer, wild boars, Siamese hares and Red Jungle fowls.Because of its broad altitudinal range and the cool climate of its upper reaches, the park supports the largest number of bird species of any site in Thailand. The Center for Wildlife Research at Mahidol University records a present total of 362 species and expects addition many at the summit are migrants from northern Asia. Species restricted to Doi Inthanon are Ashy-throated Warbler and an endemic race of the Green-tailed Sunbird; the park is the only site where the Chestnut-bellied Rock-Thrush and the Yellow-bellied Flower pecker are known to over summer and probably breed.From Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon
Doi Inthanon (Thai: ดอยอินทนนท์) is the highest mountain in Thailand. The mountain was also known in the past as Doi Luang (meaning big mountain) or Doi Ang Ka, meaning the crow's pond top. Near the mountain's base was a pond where many crows gathered. The name Doi Inthanon was given in honour of the king Inthawichayanon, one of the last kings of Chiang Mai, who was concerned about the forests in the north and tried to preserve them. He ordered that after his death his remains shall be placed at Doi Luang, which was then renamed.
Geography
Vachiratharn waterfalls
In 1954 the forests around Doi Inthanon were preserved as one of the original 14 National parks of Thailand. In 1972 and 1975 its area was increased, so it now covers 482.40 km². The park spreads from the lowlands at 800 m altitude up to the peak in 2565 m, thus covering many climatic and ecological different parts, thus with a total of 362 it has the second highest number of bird species of any national park in Thailand. The park is often called The roof of Thailand.
On the lower slope of Doi Inthanon, near the Karen hill tribe village Ban Sop Had, are the Vachiratharn waterfalls, where the river Vachiratharn tumbles over a granite escarpment.Napamaytanidol Chedi
The Queen's Napamaytanidol Chedi
On the main road to the summit of Doi Inthanon stand the two Napamaytanidol Chedi. These temples were built to honor the 60th birthday of the King and Queen in 1987 and 1992 respectively.Geology
Geologically the mountain is a granite batholith in a north-south oriented mountain range. The second-highest peak of this range is Doi Hua Mod Luang at 2,330 m.References
Thai National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department
from wiki pedia
Geography
Vachiratharn waterfalls
In 1954 the forests around Doi Inthanon were preserved as one of the original 14 National parks of Thailand. In 1972 and 1975 its area was increased, so it now covers 482.40 km². The park spreads from the lowlands at 800 m altitude up to the peak in 2565 m, thus covering many climatic and ecological different parts, thus with a total of 362 it has the second highest number of bird species of any national park in Thailand. The park is often called The roof of Thailand.
On the lower slope of Doi Inthanon, near the Karen hill tribe village Ban Sop Had, are the Vachiratharn waterfalls, where the river Vachiratharn tumbles over a granite escarpment.Napamaytanidol Chedi
The Queen's Napamaytanidol Chedi
On the main road to the summit of Doi Inthanon stand the two Napamaytanidol Chedi. These temples were built to honor the 60th birthday of the King and Queen in 1987 and 1992 respectively.Geology
Geologically the mountain is a granite batholith in a north-south oriented mountain range. The second-highest peak of this range is Doi Hua Mod Luang at 2,330 m.References
Thai National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department
from wiki pedia
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