Chiang Mai

Introduction

Chiang Mai is a city built on the roots of a traditional heritage that dig deep into the soil of time. It's a city with a beautiful cultural personality of its own. In addition, it's been blessed with much majestic beauty in nature.

The people themselves are an unforgettable part of Chiang Mai.

Handicrafts of silk, silver and wood are timeless souvenirs for visitors from all over the globe.

Along with all this, a wide variety of accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment all help to make Chiang Mai one of Thailand's prime tourist attractions.

Location

Situated between north latitude 17-21 and east longitude 98-99, the province of Chiang Mai is found in the upper area of Thailand's northern region. Chiang Mai valley is 310 meters (1,027 feet) above sea level.

The widest point of the province measures 136 kms. (85 miles), and the longest 320 kms. (200 miles).

To the north, a 277 kms. (141.82 miles) stretch of mountains divides Chiang Mai's northern districts of Fang and Mae Ai from Myanmar's (Burma's) Chiang Tung (Shan) State.

In certain areas, the Kok River also acts as a border between Chiang Mai and Myanmar.

On the east, Chiang Mai is bodered by the Chiang Rai, Lampang, and Lamphun provinces. The Mae Tuen River, Ream Mountain, and Luang Mountain separate Chiang Mai's South from the province of Tak.

Some portions of Chiang Mai's South also border the Lamphun province. Tothe west, Chiang Mai is bordered by Mae Hong Son province.

Climate

Cool Season : (late October to end of Februry). average temperature 21º C and much cooler at night.

The colest months are December and January.

Hot Season : (early March to end of May) Average temperature 29.9º C.

The hottest month is April.

Rainy Season : (early June to end of October). Average temperature 25.5º C.

The wettest month is September.

Population

With a population of 1,547,085 Chiang Mai is one of Thailand's largest provinces.

Of the above number, 170,348 are currently living in Chiang Mai's city area with the rest distributed throughout Chiang Mai's 21 districts, 2 sub-districts. 80% of the people in Chiang Mai are locals by birth, and speak a sialext that is a slight variation of the central Thai language.

The remaining 20% is made up of Thai nationals and foreigners who have moved to Chiang Mai to work, study, or retire.

Attractions

Chiang Mai is often spoken of by tourists and visitors as being a city with a distinct beauty and cultural heritage of its own.

Along with its numerous ancient temples and buildings, Nature added her own handiwork in the majestic mountains and combine to compose a captivating symphony which draws both domestic and international tourists back to see this city of old time, tine, and time again.