The second largest city in Thailand, Chiang Mai is a magic blend of old and new, east and west. Chiang Mai city is surrounded by mountains and the wilderness of Northern Thailand making it a popular base for further trips afield such as Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son. Chiang Mai and it's surrounding sights offers something for all tastes and ages from historic temples, markets, elephant riding to bungee jumping there is something guaranteed for everybody. Below are some of the activities and attractions Chiang Mai has to offer.things you can get up to:
Elephant Riding and Bamboo RaftingVisit an elephant camp where you can watch mahoots bathing the elephants, take an elephant ride, see newborn baby elephants and an elephant performance. The camp also acts as an important conservation and breeding ground for this dwindling species of animal. The visit can also be combined with with bamboo raf
Buffalo Training Camp One of the newer attractions in Chiang Mai, here you can watch an informative demonstration about the important role the buffaloes used to play in Thai farming and countryside life. Buffaloes were used for ploughing the paddy fields, churning sugar cane, their meat and skin. At the end of the demonstration you can mount a buffalo and take pictures with them.
Doi Suthep There is a saying that goes "if you have never been to Doi Suthep it's like you have never been to Chiang Mai" this is because it is one of the most important symbols of Chiang Mai. Located on a mountain 15k west of the city it offers humbling views of the city. On our tours we particularly like to go during sunset not only to catch the sun go down over the city but to avoide the tourist crowds during the day
Handicraft Villages Thailand is also renowned for its handicrafts and skilled craftsmanship. Visit handicraft centers specific to Lanna (Northern Thai) culture such as umbrella making, silk and lacquerware where you can observe the intricate processes used to make them and purchase items at wholesale price. It's also a great place to pick up souvenirs with everything from hilltribe dolls, ceramics, hand carved soaps and candles, textiles, jewellery, rattan, bags and toys.
Khantoke Dinner Offers a set menu of traditional Northern Thai food with traditional song and dance performances whilst you eat.
Hilltribe Museum
The hilltribe museum offers a good introduction to the hilltribes of Northern Thailand. Located in Ratchamangla Park and part of the Tribal Research Institute, there are a range of displays from model hilltribe villages to hilltribe instruments all with descriptions in Thai and English. When you first enter the museum you are invited to watch an informative 40 minute documentary about the hilltribes in Thailand. A very educational experience where you can learn about all aspects of hilltribe life - from the different farming seasons to their history, traditions and beliefs.
Tiger Kingdom
This relatively new attraction in Chiang Mai, and one of only 2 Tiger Kingdoms in Thailand (the other is in Bangkok). Here you can get up close to the tigers, stroke and have your picture taken with them. It is free to enter and walk around the park, but to enter the enclosures there are different prices and packages depending on if you want to see the baby, medium, adult tigers. The Tiger has had mixed reviews, in our experience people either love it or hate it, at the end of the day we think it's an individual choice.
Amazing Chiang Mai,ThailandChiang Mai, Thailand - The Travel Industry's Biggest Secret One couple's story of their experiences in this magical city, from tourists to retirement
