Chiang Mai Information
When we first arrived in Chiang Mai, we immediately fell in love with it - the beautiful mountains and rivers, the historic old city, fantastic food, the warm and friendly people. Thailand’s second largest city, Chiangmai retains much of its lanna heritage and country town charm, yet has all the conveniences of a big city.
There are countless things to do and see in Chiang Mai for everyone. It’s an especially a great place to bring the family, whether you have young kids or teenagers. (See the “Attractions & Activities” section). You’re guaranteed to have a great time here!
Chiang Mai is also an ideal “stepping-stone” to explore the North of Thailand. From here, you can access places like Chiang Rai and the mysterious Golden Triangle, as well as “the city of three mists”, Mae Hong Son and the magical Pai.
Fast Facts: About Chiang Mai
History of Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai for children
Please enjoy our slideshow presentation: Images of Chiang Mai.
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Fast Facts: About Chiang Mai
- Population - 1.7 million people. 10% of the population are Hilltribes - Karen, Lahu, Akha, Yao and Meo.
- Located in Northern Thailand, 700km North of Bangkok.
- Elevation: 316m, surrounded by mountains and lush countryside.
- Official language is standard Thai, but locals also speak a northern dialect. English spoken in tourist areas.
- "Chiang Mai" literally means "New City". Chiang Mai is also known as "Rose of the North".
- More than 300 temples can be found in Chiang Mai, some dating back to the foundation of the city in 1296.
- Chiang Mai is considered Thailand's culture and handicraft centre.
Chiang Mai for Children
There are plenty of things to do to keep the whole family occupied and the children entertained. In Chiang Mai, kids can get up close and personal with animals at the beautiful Chiang Mai Zoo, have lunch with tigers, enjoy an elephant show, or even learn to be an elephant trainer! Other activities for kids include art & craft classes where they can learn how to make saa paper and paper umbrellas, or even learn to cook Thai food.
There are also plenty of adventurous activities for older kids including trekking, trail biking, paintball, go-karting, ATV, bungy jumping, etc.
Chiang Mai is surrounded by beautiful mountains and has many spectacular waterfalls – all wonderful places for the whole family to get back to nature. Heading into the mountains is also a great way to escape the heat.
