Lying amongst some of the highest mountains in the country, Chiang Mai is the largest and most culturally significant city in the north of Thailand. Founded by King Mengrai in 1296, Chiang Mai succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lannathai Kingdom and soon established itself as an important city on ancient trade routes. Today Chian Mai is a cosmopolitan metropolis and one of the few places in Thailand where it is still possible to find centuries-old wats next to modern convenience stores and boutique hotels.

There are over 300 wats in the city as well as a number of other interesting sights such as the city markets and old walls and moat. One of the city’s enduring images is of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. Established in 1383, this magnificent temple overlooks the city from its 1,000m elevation on the slopes of Mt. Doi Suthep. The site was selected by sending an elephant to roam at will up the mountainside. It is also possible to take boat trips on the river or indulge in a cookery course to learn how to cook some of the fantastic regional cuisine served here.