The best ways to experience this unique Thai culture
Up to the 1920s, the 700-year-old city of Chiang Mai could only be reached via a strenuous journey on the river or an elephant trek. This isolation has maintained a preservation of its charm and culture, meaning that Chiang Mai is still relatively new to the outside world. The people of Chiang Mai have kept their traditions and protected their historical sites, which belies its name that translates as ‘new city’.
The historical centre of Chiang Mai is the walled city, where there are still over 30 temples that have stood for centuries. The most famous of these temples is undoubtedly Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, which sits on the side of the Himalayas and overlooks the modern-day centre of Chiang Mai from 13 kilometres away. Of course, reaching such a scenic place of worship doesn’t come without effort, which is found in the shape of over 300 stairs, but it is all worth it to follow – literally – in the footsteps of centuries of Thai culture to see the timeless view of Chiang Mai.
Photo credit: by RoguePriest
As can be seen from this view, modern Chiang Mai has since migrated more to the east and the River Ping but this does not mean that the city has abandoned its cultural roots from the mountainside, in fact, the Wat Chiang Man is right in the centre of the city and is a temple that dates back to the founding of Chiang Mai and is even said to have been established by the founder of Chiang Mai, Phaya Mengrai. The temples of Chiang Mai are foremost a revered place of worship, but also serve as a reminder of Chiang Mai’s rich cultural history.
What has made Chiang Mai such an ideal place for meditation and prayer is not only its isolation but also its natural beauty. The people of Chiang Mai take great care of their surroundings, which culminates every year in the annual flower festival. Unlike horticultural celebrations in other cities around the world, such as the Hampton Court Flower Show, Chiang Mai’s annual flower festival is embraced by the entire city. On the first weekend of February, the city known as the ’Rose of the North’ lives up to its reputation as ship-owners and homeowners decorate their streets with flower boxes. A parade comes through to spread the carnival throughout the streets and is best experienced on Saturday when the festivities are in full swing.
Photo credit: by deevaugn
Of course, visitors are not limited to specific celebrations to enjoy Chiang Mai’s Edenic side. Dokmai Garden has hundreds of different flowers, plants, fruits, and vegetables and is nestled between two national parks. The Mae Sa waterfall stretches two kilometres and washes over nine tiers of cascades; it is no surprise that the people of Chiang Mai have always rejoiced in their natural surroundings.
For a different kind of beauty, it would be worth visiting Chiang Mai in November for the Loi Krathong and Yi Peng festivals, which coincide. The Loi Krathong festival is kicked off on the first full moon of November with the sight of thousands of hot air balloons, called Khom Loy, being launched into the sky. The origins of this festival are not entirely clear, however, it is widely believed to have sprung from Thai Buddhists who wished to honour Buddha. The balloons (krathong) floating away symbolise letting go of one’s negative thoughts and anger.
The Yi Peng festival usually falls just before Loi Krathong and involves a similar display of floating lights. Lanterns are lit and released skyward to symbolise a clearing of bad luck and starting anew. Fireworks are also lit as the night sky is dotted with light and locals decorate their homes with coconut leaves, paper lanterns, and blossoms.
Chiang Mai’s culture is one based on spirituality, which is evident in the plethora of historic temples that they have maintained through the years. With such a secluded yet vibrant feel of the place and the people, Chiang Mai has been an ideal environment for Thai culture to flourish in.
Photo credit: by onourownpath.com
