Chiang Mai
King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning “new city”) in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. The city was surrounded by a moat and a defensive wall, since nearby Burma was a constant threat. Now the wall stands as a reminder of how small this city used to be as it has grown to be the second largest city in Thailand behind Bangkok and the second most visited. Those that make the trip North are rewarded with green splendor and much cooler temperatures.
We spent a total of 8 days in and around Chiang Mai including hiking to tribal villages and a homestay. We were impressed by the surrounding area but oppressed by the March dry-season temperature. Read about Chiang Mai’s enormous night market, great hikes, best cooking school. Click here to see the top attractions in Chiang Mai.
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