Chiang Mai, with an altitude of approximately 310 meters above sea level, is situated approximately 700 kilometers from Bangkok on the Mae Ping River basin. Surrounded by high mountain ranges, the city covers an area of approximately 20,107 square kilometers and is the country's second largest province. Chiang Mai borders Myanmar on the north, Lamphun and Tak Provinces on the south, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lamphun Provinces on the east and Mae Hong Son Province on the west. The terrain is mainly comprised of jungles and mountains, which are home to the hill tribes. In addition, wildlife and exotic flora may be found in the national parks.

Most of Chiang Mai's mountains are oriented from north to south. Together they create a multitude of streams and tributaries including Mae Chaem, Mae Ngat and Mae Klang. One of Chiang Mai's distinctive features is Doi Inthanon, Thailands highest peak, which is 2,575 meters above sea level. In addition, the province boasts flat, fertile valleys, which spread along the banks of the largest and most important river in Chiang Mai Mae Nam Ping (Ping River) which originates from the Chiang Dao mountain range.

travel
by car
Drive on Highway No.1 (Phahonyothin) and turn left to Highway No.32 (Asian Highway) which passes Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, and Nakhon Sawan, then take Highway No. 117 to Phitsanulok and Highway No. 11 to Lampang, Lamphun and Chiang Mai. The total distance is 695 kilometers.
From Nakhon Sawan, take Highway No. 1 passing Kamphaeng Phet, Tak, Lampang, and Chiang Mai. Total distance is 696 kilometers.

by bus

From Bangkok There are ordinary, 2nd class and 1st class air-conditioned buses leaving for Chiang Mai daily (8.00 a.m. to 09.00 p.m.) from the Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal). Call 02 936 3600, 02 936 2852, and 02 937 8055 for a more updated bus timetable. Private buses, which can be conveniently booked in tourist-oriented places in Bangkok, are also available. However, the public buses from the Northern Bus Terminal are generally more reliable. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on traffic.

From Chiang Mai If you travel to any districts in Chiang Mai, use Chang Phuak Bus Terminal located on Chotana Road, tel. 053 211 586. Destinations include those located along the northern route (Highway No. 107) which passes through Mae Rim, Mae Taeng, Chiang Dao, Chaiprakan, Fang and Mae Ai. Some buses continue to Tha Ton, the northern-most province of Chiang Mai.

by train
Express and rapid trains operated by the State Railways of Thailand leave for Chiang Mai from Bangkoks Hua Lamphong Station 6 times a day from 8.00 a.m.-10.00 p.m. The trip takes about 11-12 hours for express trains. For more information, contact tel. 1690, or 02 223 7010, 02 223 7020. Chiang Mai Railway Station, tel. (053) 24 2094, 244 795, .247 462 245 363-4

by air

Domestic airlines including Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Air Asia, Nok Air, Orient Thai Airlines, Air Andaman and Phuket Air operate several flights daily between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Thai Airways also operates domestic flights from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son, Chiang Rai and Phuket. International flights to and from Chitakong, Luang Phrabang, Khunming, Yangon and Japan (Narita) are also provided. Call 02 628 2000 (Bangkok), 053 211 044-7 (Chiang Mai), or visit www.thaiairways.com for more information. Bangkok Airways also offers several flights daily on the Bangkok - Chiang Mai route, some with a stopover at Sukhothai. International routes to and from Jinghong and XiAn are also available. Call 02 265 5555, 265 5678 (Bangkok Office) or 053 27 6176 (Chiang Mai Office) or visit www.bangkokair.com for more information. Phuket Air offers 2 daily shuttle service flights from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai with YS-11 aircraft. The journey takes only 40 minutes and the flight times are at 07.30 a.m. and 6.00 p. m. For more information, call Bangkok Office 66 2679-8999 or Chiang Mai Office 66 5392 2118-9 or visit www.phuketairlines.com. For Nok Air call 1318 or visit www.nokair.co.th for reservations. Apart from Bangkok-Chiang mai flight, the airlines also operate flights between Chiang mai and Udon Thani twice aweek. For Orient Thai Airlines, call 02 267 2999 or visit www.orient-thai.com for more information. Foreign Airlines operating flights from Chiang Mai to several destinations are: Air Mandalay operates flights between Chiang Mai and Yangon on Sundays and Thursdays. Contact 053 818 049 (Chiang Mai office), visit www.myanmars.net/airmandalay or write to cnxrr6t@sita.gmsmail.com for more information. Mandarin Airlines operates flights between Chiang Mai and Taipei three times a week on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. For more information call, 053 201 268-9 (Chiang Mai office) or visit www.mandarinair.com Lao Airlines operates flights on the Chiang Mai Luang Phrabang route three times a week on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Call 053 223 401 (Chiang Mai office), visit www.laoairlines.com or write to qvcnx@loxinfo.co.th for more information. Silk Air operates flights between Chiang Mai Singapore three times a week on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Call 053 276 459 053 276 495 (Chiang Mai office) or visit www.silkair.com for reservations.

Doi Luang Chiang Dao

This is a limestone mountain in the Chiang Dao Wildlife Reserve area, Chiang Dao District. This cone-shaped mountain is 2,195 metres above sea level, which makes it the third highest mountain in Thailand after Doi Inthanon and Doi Pha Hom Pok. Narrow plains on top of the mountain overlook spectacular views that include a sea of fog on the Chiang Dao District side, Doi Sam Phi Nong, the Chiang Dao mountain range, and the far end of Doi Inthanon. The peak is cool and windy and has an abundance of rare highland flowers, birds, and butterflies. An approval letter from the Director of Wildlife Reserve Division, Royal Forest Department is required in order to visit Doi Chiang Dao. Travel must be arranged at least 2 weeks in advance. Contact tel. 0-2561-2947 for more information. Getting there: The peak is accessible by foot. At Chiang Dao cave, guides, porters, and chartered transfers to the starting point of the trail are available. Rented local truck costs around 900 bahts and the fee for a porter is 300 bahts per person. There are no tourist facilities on Chiang Dao Mountain. Visitors must bring their own sleeping bags, food, and water.

King Naresuan Stupa
Located at Muang Ngai Village, the stupa was built by the local people in honour of King Naresuan the Great when he camped on the spot with his troops during his war with Burma in 1604.

Tham Chiang Dao (Chiang Dao Cave)
This charming cave is located in Chiang Dao Sub-district, approximately 72 kilometers from Chiang Mai town. To get there, take the Mae Rim route, turn left at the entrance route and proceed for 5 kilometers on an asphalt road. For adventure lovers, this is a perfect spot to test your limits. Visitor has to climb a staircase to reach to cave. A stream in front of the cave is where several kinds of fish can be spotted. Touring in and around Tham Chiang Dao with a local guide is possible by contacting local guides in front of the cave. A service fee is charged.

Wat Tham Tap Tao
This temple is situated in Chai Prakan Sub-district along the Chiang Mai-Fang route between Km.120 and Km.121. Temple attractions include a scripture hall located in the middle of a pond and Tap Tao cave which houses several unique Buddha images.

Doi Luang Chiang Dao

Doi Luang Chiang Dao is a limestone mountain in the Chiang Dao Wildlife Reserve area, Amphoe Chiang Dao. This cone-shaped mountain is 2,195 metres from sea level, which makes it the third highest mountain in Thailand after Doi Inthanon and Doi Pha Hom Pok. Narrow plains on top of the mountain overlook spectacular views that include a sea of fog on the Amphoe Chiang Dao side, Doi Sam Phi Nong, the Chiang Dao mountain range, and the far end of Doi Inthanon. The peak is cool and windy. It is full of rare highland flowers, birds, and butterflies. Visiting Doi Chiang Dao needs an approval letter from the Director of Wildlife Reserve Division, Royal Forest Department. It must arranged at least 2 weeks before travelling. Contact tel. 0-2561-2947 for more information. Getting there: The peak is accessible on foot. At Chiang Dao cave, guides, porters, and chartered transfers to the starting point of the trail are available. Rented local truck costs around 900 baht and, a porter is 300 baht per person. There are no tourist facilities on Chiang Dao Mountain. Visitors must bring their own sleeping bags, food, and water. Descending the mountain is possible on the trail near Ban Tham, which is located near Chiang Dao cave. The trail is rather steep; nevertheless, it could shorten the walking distance upon descending. It is quite difficult to climb up.

Huai Luek Royal Project Development Centre
Location: Ban Huai Luek, Bueng Khong sub-district, Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai Tel. 053 45116 Fax. 053 229635

The center serves as a demonstrative development model for the hill tribe people based on the philosophy of promoting proper agricultural technology to hill tribe farmers. The site is open for the public to explore pilot plots of vegetables, flowers, fruits, Hmongs plantation and the Poi River. In addition, the Royal Project Foundation has its own shop selling daily fresh produce. Tours complete with a lecturer can be arranged in advance and advanced reservation is recommended for group visits. Toilets and parking areas are also available.

Doi Tao Lake
The lake is located approximately 133 kilometers from Chiang Mai town along the Chiang Mai-Hot-Doi Tao route. This large reservoir is actually situated above the Bhumibol Dam in Tak province. The lake offers many recreational opportunities during the rainy and cool seasons, including rafting and cruise services to Bhumibol Dam. Accommodations are also available.

Ang Khang Royal Agricultural Station

Location: Ban Khum, Mae Ngon sub-district, Fang District, Chiang Mai. Tel. 053 450107 9; Fax. 053 450106 Located in the valley of Doi Ang Khang, the station is designated for conducting experiments on possible temperate plants to be grown in Thailand. The experiment is aimed at promoting the cultivation of cash crops to replace hill tribes' opium plantations. Inside the station, there are beautifully landscaped flower gardens, a restaurant and plantations. Advanced contact is recommended for a group visit with lecturers available upon request. Facilities include guesthouses (inside the station), food and beverage, parking space, toilets, etc. In addition, there are many guesthouses and a hotel located around the station. The entrance fee is 50 bahts per vehicle (including driver) and admission fee of 30 bahts per person. The morning market in front of the station, which is the hill tribes market, is stunning and charming.

Doi Ang Khang National Park
Famous for its cool climate all year round, visitors can explore the Royal Angkhang Station Project and visit hill tribe villages to learn more about their daily life. To get there, take Highway No. 107 (Chiang Mai-Fang), turn left at an intersection around Km. 137 (Mae Kha Market) and proceed for another 25 kilometers to Doi Ang Khang. As the route is filled with steep s-curves, an experienced driver and vehicles in good condition is required. The local truck (song taew) from Mae Kha Market offers chartered service to the mountain.

Huai Phak Phai Royal Project
This is at Ban Mae Ha, Tambon Ban Pong, Amphoe Hang Dong along the Samoeng-Hang Dong route. It is approximately 300 metres from Km. 17. From Chiang Mai, it can be reached via 2 routes: Chiang Mai-Mae Rim-Samoeng-Hang Dong route which is 32 kilometers in length and Chiang Mai-Hang Dong-Samoeng route that is 43 kilometers in length. The project is responsible for collecting, researching, and breeding roses. One of the highlighted attractions in this project is the Royal Rose Garden, which covers an area of 8.4 acres where various kinds of roses have been planted along the mountain ranges. The best time to visit is from October to February.

A number of pretty resorts decorated with highland flowers are located along the route to Huai Phak Phai Royal Project and are open to the public and for camping. Accommodations are available at Kritsada Doi and Utthayan Lanna. Please refer to the accommodation sheet for more information.

Mae Tho National Park
The park is located approximately 160 kilometers from Chiang Mai town. To get there, drive along the Hot-Mae Sariang Road to Mae Tho for 16 kilometers, at Km. 55, turn onto the unpaved roads which are steep and curved. Only vehicles in good condition are recommended. The Mae Tho National Park Office overlooks Karen highland paddy fields that resemble a flowing stream. Camping and trekking is possible by contacting the national park office.

Op Luang National Park
Op Luang National Park is an amazing natural attraction comprising both splendid natural charms as well as mysterious scenery. A zigzagging river flows in front of a picturesque gorge. The area is a high, steep cliff with a narrow passage, creating strong currents and powerful echoes. An area in the north of this stream is teeming with various kinds of plants that provide a pleasant ambience all year round. Magnificent views of Op Luang National Park can be seen from the bridge that links with the gorge. An interesting prehistoric archaeological site is also located in the park.

Getting There: The Op Luang National Park is located 105 kilometres from Chiang Mai town along Highway No. 108 (Chiang Mai-Hot-Mae Sariang). The road stretches alongside the Mae Chaem River and zigzags along mountain ranges. Blue buses originate from the Hot-Mae Sariang roundabout. There are 3 lines of buses: Hot-Mae Sariang, Hot-Mae Chaem, Hot-Om Koi. All of them stop at Op Luang National Park.

Doi Inthanon National Park
This national park which covers an area of 1,005 square kilometers is located on Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest mountain which is 2,565 meters above sea level. Located between Mae Chaem and Chom Thong, the park is comprised of the largest tract of upper mountain forest which ranges across Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and ends in Northern Thailand. The mountain ranges gave birth to the main tributaries of the Maenam Ping and formed the beautiful waterfalls, namely Siriphum, Wachirathan, Mae Pan, Mae Klang and Mae Ya. The moist and dense evergreen forest is abundant with lichens and wild orchids. The park is also a paradise for bird lovers. Visiting Doi Inthanon is possible throughout the year however, the best period for viewing the waterfalls is May through November while the best period for viewing wild flowers is December through February and for ornithologists is November through March. Getting There: Travel 58 kilometers west of Chiang Mai via Highway No. 107 to Chom Thong, then turn right into Highway No. 1009 and continue a further distance of 48 kilometers along Highway No. 1009 to the summit. A good but rather steep asphalt road takes visitors up, thus the vehicle must be in a good condition. Visitors could pay for the entrance fee at Km. 8.

Doi Inthanon Royal Project Research Station
This is located at Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, on the way to the Doi Inthanon peak. The research station is operated under the Royal Project. The facilities are for research and development of pilot projects for cash crops, which include coffee, cold-climate fruits, and cut flowers. The research station also provides services and information regarding the application of advanced technology to help alleviate poverty, natural resource conservation etc. In addition, information on production and marketing of the products is also available. Tourists can visit the stations charming garden of temperate-climate flowers and a cut-flower nursery. The research station is located approximately 90 kilometers from the city and is near Inthanon peak. The research station is ideal for flower lovers and is a recommended stopover for travelers heading up or down Doi Inthanon. Advanced contact for a group visit is recommended. Tour guide services are also available. For more information call 0 5335 5196.

Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden
This botanical garden, which covers a mountainous area of 560 acres, is located around Km. 12 along the Mae Rim-Samoeng route. This international botanical garden with a fine collection of Thai and foreign plants exhibited according to species and climate was established in 1992 to honor Queen Sirikit. Visitors can drive around the area in order to see include the Tourist Information Center, the Thai Orchid Breeding Center, Herbs Museum and the Research Center. The garden is open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. For more information, contact tel. 66 5329 8171-5 ext. 4736, 4739, fax: 66 5329 9754.

Huai Nam Dang National Park

The park occupies an area of 180 square kilometers in Mae Taeng Sub-district, Chiang Mai and Pai Sub-district, Mae Hong Son Province. The mountain, which is mostly ranged highlands, has verdant forests that are the sources of tributaries and various streams. Notable attractions in the park include Huai Nam Dang Viewpoint and Doi Kiu Lom, which overlooks Doi Chiang Dao. To get there, drive along Mae Malai-Pai Road to between Km. 65-66, and then take a 6-kilometer access road to the park office. Another attraction, Doi Chang Viewpoint, is located 20 kilometers beyond the Huai Nam Dang Viewpoint and is only accessible by four-wheel drive vehicle. The scenic views of natural mountain ranges and early morning sea of clouds can be seen from this view point. Camping is possible provided that visitors bring their own tents and food. Nearby attractions in Mae Hong Son Province worth visiting include Pong Nam Ron Tha Pai (hot spring) and Namtok Mae Yen (waterfall).

Chiang Mai National Museum

Located on the Chiang Mai-Lampang Super Highway near Wat Chet Yot, the museum has been designated by the Fine Arts Department as a regional center for education and preservation of the art and culture of Chiang Mai and upper northern Thailand the Lanna Kingdom. Their Majesties the King and Queen graciously presided over the opening of the museum on 6 February 1973. The museum was built according to traditional northern architecture, with a Lanna Thai rooftop. Interesting exhibitions include: Topic 1: The natural and cultural background of the Lan Na Kingdom including the geology, ecology, geography and prehistoric settlement of the north. Topic 2: The history of the Lan Na Kingdom from the establishment of Chiang Mai city to its peak and decline under Burmese control from 1558 to 1769. Topic 3: The city of Chiang Mai under the Kingdom of Siam, from the time Chiang Mai regained its freedom from Burma, to the reestablishment of Chiang Mai city in 1782. Topic 4: Trade and economy of the Lan Na Kingdom from 1782 to 1939. Topic 5: The modern way of life and social development: agriculture and industry, banking, international relations, education and public health. Topic 6: The development of the Lan Na Art Style, and the history of art in Thailand from the Dvaravati period to the present day. Not far away from the Chiang Mai National Museum is the Tribal Museum, which displays information on the history and culture of each hill tribe as well as their traditional handicrafts. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. (closed on National Holidays) Contact tel. 053 221328 for more information. Admission fee is 30 baht.

Chiang Mai Zoo
Situated next to Huai Kaew Arboretum at the foot of the mountain where Phra That Doi Suthep is located, the zoo houses a pair of cuddly Pandas on loan from China. Inside the zoo, there are over 200 types of Asian and African mammals and birds for visitors to observe. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., the admission fee for an adult is 100 baht and a child is 20 baht. There are excellent facilities for tourists with restaurants and a camping site. Advance booking is required for large groups. Contact: tel. 0-5322-1179, 0-5322-2283.

Doi Suthep-Doi Pui National Park

Doi Suthep & Doi Pui National Park Covering an area of 262 sq. km., this luxuriant park is home to more than 300 bird species and nearly 2,000 species of ferns and flowering plants. Some hiking trails in the park pass Hmong villages while others lead to a few small waterfalls where local people come to picnicking on weekends. Accommodations are available near the park headquarters. To get there, take Highway No. 1004, its only 16 kilometers drive northwest of Chiang Mai town. The Park has interesting attractions, which include: Namtok Huai Kaew This waterfall is located near the Chiang Mai Zoo and is a pleasant place for relaxation and picnics. Doi Pui Tribal VillageThis village is a Hmong village situated on an asphalt road approximately 3 kilometers from Phu Phing Palace and approximately one hour from Chiang Mai. The village presents the typical lifestyle of the Hmong as well as a scenic view of Doi Inthanon. Phu Phing Palace (Royal Winter Palace)The palace is located further up the mountain and approximately 6 kilometers from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The royal winter palace was built in 1962. Its landscaped gardens are decorated with plenty of colorful, exotic flowers. It is open every day from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. except when the Royal family is in residence which is usually from mid December to early February.

Si Lanna National Park
This national park has an abundance of wildlife and verdant forests, which are the sources of various tributaries of the Mae Ping River. The park covers a mountainous area of 260,800 acres in Phrao, Mae Taeng, and Chiang Dao Districts. Attractions within the park include Namtok Mon Hin Lai, Nae Ngat Sombun Chon Dam, Pha Daeng Cave, etc. Getting to the ranger office is easy, drive along Highway No. 107 (Chiang Mai-Fang route), and then turn right to Sombun Chon Reservoir and proceed for 12 kilometers

San Kamphaeng
The village is located 13 kilometers the east of Chiang Mai town in a district that is famous for silk and a cotton weaving. The silk and cotton souvenirs produced in this village are high quality. Factories and souvenir shops selling woodcarving, silverware, earth ware, lacquer ware and cotton fabrics are located along the way from Chiang Mai to San Kamphaeng. Located in San Kamphaeng is Bo Sang a village that produces handmade umbrellas. In addition to umbrellas, visitors will also be able to find various woodcarving and Thai silk products here.

San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
The hot springs set amidst natural surroundings of trees and verdant hills, are located 36 kilometers from town. The water is high in sulphur content and possesses curative and restorative properties. Basic facilities for tourist available are accommodations, a swimming pool, dining facilities and separate mineral water bathing rooms.