Chiang Mai, away from the glittering essence of Bangkok, offers a window to the cultural heritage of the Thai kingdom. The cultural capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai, is filled with beautiful architecture, historic temples and a great Lanna atmosphere. The city has its own personality and one of the best preserved in the country. Here are some areas that you can visit, and sights you can explore and immerse yourself in the wonders that unfold around you.
Chiang Mai City and Old City: Surrounded by a wall and about a kilometer west of the Ping River, the old town includes various temples of Lanna and cultural attractions within its walls. Stroll through Sunday’s pedestrian street or visit the Night Bazaar with its lairs from the shops that share the space, with a variety of modern and traditional shops of goods, cafes, resorts and restaurants on the banks of the river. Go further west from the Old Town, and you will come to Nimmanhamin Road, which is the Chiang Mai hip choir, complete with boutiques, galleries and great restaurants.
Riverside Wat Ket: Embankment promises the charm of the old world, for which the city was renamed. The square is dotted with affordable eateries, shops and live music venues. On the river bank there is an element of luxury; however, the area is less elitist than Bangkok Chao Phraya, and you will most likely see how the locals and tourists mix together.
Nimmanhaemin Road: The road is Chiang Mai’s hip hall with boutiques, galleries and restaurants. If you have an interest in handicrafts and antiques, you can spend an interesting day rummaging through various stores, especially in Soi 1. You can visit the neighboring Huay Kaew Road street with a night market in which students and teenagers are gathered for the latest fashions prices. On the road there are also several cafes, restaurants and cool bars with live music.
Hang Dong: As one of the main centers of artisanal in Chiang Mai, Baan Tawai woodcarving village and the Muang Kung Tile Museum are located in the area. Both villas offer all kinds of hand-carved wooden furniture, home accessories, decor items and custom-made crafts.
Night Bazaar: The night bazaar, located at the intersection of Chiang Hlan and Loy-Hroha, is the main place for shopping and nightlife. The area comes alive around the sun, and the action continues until 8 in the morning or even later. This area is home to several accommodation options ranging from budget guest houses to luxury villas in Thailand. If you want to stay in the popular commercial section of Chiang Mai, your stay at the Night Bazaar would be perfect.
