Information on Chiangmai and the North
Chiangmai is Thailand’s second city, fondly known as “the Rose of the North”. Home for many festivals and events, there is always something going on in this charming city. Famous for the beauty and the gentle nature of its people, Chiangmai offers breathtaking scenery, colourful hilltribes, exquisite arts and crafts and more. Shopping is a delight in the cool evenings and amongst the many bargains to be had are Thai silk, laquerware, silverware, bronzeware, woodcarvings and furniture, hand made paper, umbrellas, plus many different crafts and items not found elsewhere. Chiangmai has a rich and glorious history reaching back to the Lanna Kingdom established by King Mengrai in 1298. Modern Chiangmai probably has one of the best infrastructures in Thailand there are 4 universities, numerous colleges and schools, around 30 hospitals, an efficient ring-road system, plus an International Airport only minutes from the Town Centre.