Chiang Mai Overview

Covering some 20,000 square kilometers, there is much to see in this province. Some of the more ancient Buddhist Temples are to be found here. The city of Chiang Mai and capital of its namesake province is about 310 meters above sea level.

Getting there is relatively easy. There are both flights and a rail service from Bangkok daily as well as a good bus service. If your stay in Thailand is a short one, it's only an hour's flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. You may even have time for a quick, worthwhile visit.

Being over 700 years old, her ancient walls and many temples make it a traveler's paradise. Shopping at bargain prices, the choice of wares will seem endless from colourful, local handicrafts consisting of hand-woven blankets, silks, woodcarving and basketry. Jewellery too, is a recommended purchase. As everywhere in this country, Thai cooking is superb and you're sure to find a restaurant to suit your tastes.

The landscape of much of the north is very mountainous with a few plains in its central region along the banks of the Ping River. 106 kilometers from Chiang Mai city is the highest peak in the country, Inthanon Mountain at 2.565 meters above sea level. The most cultivatable spots in the province are the plains where fruit, vegetables and tobacco are grown.

In 1998, Chiang Mai's population totaled 1.5 million. There are 11 major tribal groups in the area as well as several smaller groups of ethnic tribes throughout Chiang Mai. The city is a good place to use as a central point from which base yourself for visits to the surrounding hill-tribe areas.

The main population consists of Thai and northern Thais with an increasingly larger number of expatriates, based mainly in Chiang Mai city. Buddhism is the main religion, with Christianity to a lesser degree. The Islamic faith, unlike the south of Thailand, has few followers.

Chiang Mai offers accommodation to suit every pocket. Five star hotels, and resorts to simple bungalows, there's something for everyone. Entertainment is varied and the nightlife exciting.

Whether you plan on a long visit or short, you will be touched by the friendliness of the people and the beauty of the Chiang Mai.

Climate

The climate of Chiang Mai and all of Northern Thailand, is slightly different from the climate of central and southern Thailand. The cool season lasts from late October to the end of February. Average daytime temperature is 21 degrees and the nights cooler still. The coolest months are December and January.

The hot season is from early March to end of May. With average daytime temperatures around 30 degrees. The hottest month is April. The rainy season usually begins early June and reaches to the end of October. Average temperature is 25 degrees and the wettest month is September.