Chiang Mai lies on the Ping River,
nestled among high mountains in the north of Thailand,
around 700 kilometers north of Bangkok.
It is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
There are hundreds of Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai,
and the city is regarded with reverence by many Thais,
because of its spiritual heritage and retention of many of its traditions.
To the untrained eye, it is a modern city with all the trimmings
and the frantic pace of a major Asian center for trade,
but there is a gentler, more spiritual soul to this city.
The nightlife is quieter than other Thai cities,
although there are plenty of places to eat and drink,
and there are bargains to be found everywhere.
Be sure to visit the fresh food markets,
where you'll find food of all kinds, many you will have never seen before,
and some you will not recognise as food.
At the night markets, you can pick up a great bargain and delicious food,
as well as experience Thai culture.
High in the hills is the famous Doi Suthep Temple, which overlooks the sprawling city.
The site is one of the most important Buddhist temples in the country,
and exudes a powerful and moving spirit, and offers incredible views of Chiang Mai below.
The elephant hospital in the hills of Chiang Mai treats sick and injured elephants
that were once used as beasts of burden.
The animals are now treated with love and respect.
Chiang Mai is a wonderfully friendly city,
full of contradictions, surprises, and culture,
where modern Thailand embraces ancient traditions
to create a unique experience you'll never forget.