Chiangmai Information

Experiencing the merging of the past into the present in Chiang Mai where locals are proud of the city’s 700-year history. Its rich traditional heritage and unique culture is a perfect foundation for the development of the city. Chiang Mai is one of the few places in Thailand where it is possible to find in the heart of the city centuries-old chedis and temples next to modern convenience stores and boutique hotels. The original city layout still exists as a neat square surrounded by a moat with vestiges of the fortified wall and its four main gates offering prime access to the old town.

For years, tourists have mistaken Chiang Mai as the northern junction and the base from which they can explore other provinces. The phrase "a day in Chiang Mai is enough to see things around" was common. Today, tourists are surprised by the fact that there is always something new to discover Chiang Mai. Intriguing diversity among ethnic tribes coupled with breathtaking scenery makes Chiang Mai one of Asia’s most attractive tourist destinations. Two weeks in Chiang Mai may not be long enough for serious travelers.

The old city of Chiang Mai with its fascinating indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. In addition, the presence of hill tribes and their wealth of unique cultures enhance Chiang Mai’s distinctive diversity.

Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources of mountains (dois), waterfalls, and other nature-based tourist attractions. At the same time, Chiang Mai residents are warm, gracious and congenial providing authentic hospitality making visits memorable and meaningful. Moreover, visitors from all walks of life can collect handicrafts of silk, silver and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. Chiang Mai is a place where both backpackers and luxury tourists can enjoy themselves to the fullest.

General Information

Chiang Mai is located between latitude 17° N and 21° N with Myanmar as its northern neighbour. It is bordered by Lamphun and Tak on the south, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lamphun on the east and Mae Hong Son on the west. Situated at about 300 m. above sea level, it is 696 km. away from Bangkok by road and about one hour by air.

With a total area of 20,107 sq. km., Chiang Mai is the second largest province of Thailand.

There are three seasons in a year -- the rainy season from June to October, the hot season from March to May, and the cool season from November to February. Generally, Chiang Mai is cool and pleasant for the most parts of the year. The coolest months are December and January. The temperature throughout the year varies between 14° - 30° C, while the yearly average temperature is 26° C.

About 69% of the area of Chiang Mai consists of mountains covered with forests. Mostly located in the north, these mountains form the sources of several rivers and streams which provide the water necessary to Chiang Mai's agriculture. The largest and most important river is the Ping, flowing along for 540 km. from north to south. The highest mountain peak is Doi Inthanon, at 2,575 m. above sea level.

1,664,399 (end Dec 2007) with 817,524 males and 846,875 females. About 10% of the population are hilltribe people living in approximately 1,000 villages in the mountainous districts of Chiang Mai. Six major tribal groups are Karen, Lahu, Lisu, Akha, Yao and Meo.

**Note** The total population includes only permanent residents.

The provincial administration of Chiang Mai has jurisdiction over 22 counties (amphoes) as follows: Muang, Chiang Dao, Doi Saket, Fang, Hot, Mae Chaem, Mae Taeng, Phrao, San Kamphaeng, San Sai, Wiang Haeng, Chom Thong, Doi Tao, Hang Dong, Mae Ai, Mae Rim, Omkoi, Samoeng, San Pa Tong, Saraphi, Chai Prakan and Mae Wang.

Standard Thai is used as the official language, but the northern dialect is more widely spoken among the local people. English is understood in business circles and tourist areas.

The most important products are silk, silverware, woodcarvings, lacquerware, ceramics, tobacco and fruits.

How to get there

Chiang Mai International Airport

Several ordinary and air-conditioned buses leaving daily from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (also known as Mo Chit) on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road. Most air-con buses leave between 20.00 and 22.00 hrs. and it takes about 10-11 hours to reach Chiang Mai. There are also private buses which can be conveniently booked in other tourist-oriented places in Bangkok. But the public buses from the Northern Bus Terminal are generally more reliable.

For further details,
call the Northern Bus Terminal, 0 2936 2852 to 66, 0 2936 3666

Express and rapid trains leave for Chiang Mai from Hualamphong Station several times daily and the trip takes about 11-12 hours for express trains. It is highly recommended to reserve seats well in advance, especially for sleepers. During long holidays like Songkran and New Year, it is not uncommon to find that all the sleepers of all trains are already filled up two months beforehand.