Joanna James
Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a place with plenty of things to do and see. These are some of the things that you must not miss when in the area.
Doi Suthep is a mountain that overlooks the city of Chiang Mai. Atop the mountain is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a temple that is considered to be one of the most spiritual places in the entire country. It is about 5400m above the sea level and gives stunning views of the city. It embodies the Lanna culture and is believed to have been built almost a thousand years ago. You will find many foreigners and locals alike at Doi Suthep, having come to obtain blessings from the spirits.
Amidst many, a prestigious residence in Chiang Mai is the Old City. Chiang Mai Old City is almost like a museum in itself, with narrow streets and ancient buildings taking the visitor back in history. There are old shophouses, temples, and other buildings of importance that speak of a time gone by. The Old City is limited to a small area, though, so you can easily walk through the city. It is a tour that will take at most a day, with ample stops, visiting all the temples, and walking at a leisurely pace.
If you had been to Singapore and been a part of the safari scene there, you will be no stranger to this. The night safari in Chiang Mai takes you through a Jaguar Trail, a Predator Prowl, and a Savannah Safari. You are given the option of walking or taking an open tram on the trail. As this is not a safari in the wild, there are plenty of activities designed to keep you entertained. Rest up in the comfort of a luxury suite at Anantara Chiang Mai Serviced Suites and head over to the safari as the night falls, as the tours run until midnight.
If you are a fan of wildlife, the elephant jungle sanctuary is a place you must not miss. The Sanctuary was among the first places to prioritise the welfare of the animals and acts as a retirement home for old elephants. Most of these elephants are brought to the Sanctuary from logging industries or the tourism industry. Visitors are allowed to interact with the elephants in bathing and feeding them, but no one is allowed to disturb the natural way of life of the animals.
The 12km long cave is one that, according to legend, stretches into the mountains for many km before emerging across the border. Although the known cave is 12km, only a very small part of it can be explored. The best way to explore the cave is with a guide, as it can be quite tricky. A little away and upwards from the caves is Padung village, which is home to the "Long Neck Karen" ethnic hill tribe. If you decide to visit the village, be mindful of the local cultures and customs, although the people are friendly.
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