The beauty of Chiang Mai must be felt with the heart
In Thailand, travellers tend to go to Bangkok, Phuket and the islands in the Gulf of Thailand in search of natural beauty spots. However, they overlook North Thailand, known for its more cultural and mountainous regions that do, perhaps, offer even more beautiful nature spots.
Chiang Mai, the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand is located in the highest mountains in the country. This is the city so imbued with nature that an Elephant Nature Park has been set up for rescued elephants. Also, the main sources of tourism revenue are through the many treks visiting the local hills and tribes.
There are a multitude of natural beauty spots to choose from in Chiang Mai’s picturesque setting but five local spots have been selected to get the best experience in your journey.
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park
Exploratory hiking trails predominantly run through the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Based sixteen kilometres northwest of Chiang Mai, you can easily charter a tuk-tuk to take you to the entrance of the park. Near the summit lies Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the north’s most sacred temples, where fantastic views of Chiang Mai lie before the Doi Suthep Mountain. Be sure to catch the sunrise behind the city emblazoning the city in its golden glow as you face east.
Hiking through the accredited 'International Union for Conservation of Nature National Park' will give the best experience of the untouched jungle-covered mountains where exotic flora and fauna will dazzle the senses. Follow your guide over and under strange rock formations and over jaw-dropping valleys walking across discreetly placed logs.
WaterFall
Sai Yoi WaterFall
Within the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park lies a hidden gem – Sai Yoi Waterfall. Generally unknown even to local residents of Chaing Mai, this beautiful waterfall provides the backdrop to the best natural beauty spot. Swim in the sparkling pool below and lounge on the banks to watch the sunlight pour through the dense foliage of the jungle roof above.
Chiang Mai View
Huay Tung Tao Lake
For the avid birdwatcher in you, take a trip to Huay Tung Tao Lake where you can view exotic and beautiful migratory birds. Set 12 kilometres north of Chiang Mai, follow route 121 (Mae Rim) in your chartered tuk-tuk to a calm oasis from the busy city. Frolic and swim in the clear waters of the gorgeous lake (20 Baht entry) and relax with the locals who view this destination as ‘the’ place to go for their local water sporting activities. Experience the local market and grab a bite at the pop-up restaurants that lie on the banks of the lake affording stunning views of this natural beauty spot.
Sunset
Sunset over Roofside Bar
Catch the breath-taking sunset from the terrace at the Rooftop Bar in the centre of Chiang Mai. Based near the Eastern Gate of the City Walls on Than Kotchasan Road, this rasta-coloured and graffiti laden bar sets forth views of the Doi Suthep and beyond from your small, low table on bamboo floors. Wait for the dancing to start at sundown after grabbing a bottle of Chang Beer or one of the exotic cocktails cheaply advertised.
Chiang Mai City Walls
Chiang Mai’s Old City still remain showing glimpses into its rich and cultured past. A bustling centre for Buddhism, merchants, soldiers and elephants, the city was not discovered by westerners until the 16th Century. Today, all that remains are the four brick towers at the four corners, still intact complete with four original gates in the middle of all four sides. A wide moat surrounds the old city that provides an attraction to visitors and locals particularly during Songkran (Thai New Year) when the Water Festival is celebrated in mid-April. Take a picnic and lounge on the banks of the moat and explore the arrow slits and walkways that still remain open to the public.
Chiang Mai Walls
