Anastasia Smith
Nestled high and away in mountainous northern Thailand, old-world charm and boundless serenity characterise beautiful Chiang Mai. Visitors to the serene hills are treated to a plethora of delightful activities, each offering a taste of authentic Chiang Mai to experience the charming hillside city.
The idyllic mountainous city sure is blessed with more than a few treasures and wonders, but if there’s one thing that Chiang Mai has no shortage of whatsoever, that would be its host of elaborate Buddhist temples. So, embark on a delightful temple-hopping experience, touring the best and the most ornate temples that call the hillside city home. 14th-century Wat Phra Singh and 15th-century Wat Chedi Luang are obvious highlights and customary stops on almost every Chiang Mai itinerary. For those avid explorers looking for something offbeat, Wat Buppharam, Wat Jedyod or Wat Ku Tao is sure to sate your appetite.
It is as beautiful and serene as it gets at the highest point in all of Thailand. Monikered “the roof of Thailand”, the sprawling national park is aptly named for its high elevation. This park occupies a mind-boggling 482 square metres of secluded mountainous terrain, and visitors to the park are welcomed to abounding nature and beauty, brimming with opportunities for trekking, waterfall hopping and admiring some of the most scenic hillside views you’ll ever see.
For those avid adventurers craving a bit of adventure in the hillside city, set out on a journey 72 kilometres north of Chiang Mai to make your way to Chiang Dao Cave. Opportunities for adventurous exploration are absolutely plentiful in the cave complex, sure to give you your fill of fun and thrills. After a day of fun and exhilaration, retreat to one of the best hotels in Chiang Mai; your options include Anantara Chiang Mai Resort.
As the sun goes down and darkness descends upon charming Chiang Mai, there’s no place you’d rather be than the atmospheric Sunday Night Market. Authentic shopping experiences are all part of holidaying and travelling the world, and Chiang Mai certainly is no exception. Stroll the vibrant marketplace and browse through the merchandise galore, from traditional clothing, jewellery, handicrafts to authentic souvenirs, and pick up anything that tickles your fancy to take back home as a loving memento.
Chiang Mai of centuries past is still alive in Chiang Mai Old Town, with the quaint charm still intact in the old-world quarter, untouched and unmarred. Majority of the hillside city’s top-rated attractions call the old town, from ornate Buddhist temples to authentic street markets and museums, offering travellers a glimpse into the heyday of northern mountainous Thailand — an experience sure to appease all the history buffs to the city.
