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Chiang Mai, Thailand was founded in 1296 by King Phaya Mangrai after vanquishing the Mons who were established there. In the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries Chiang Mai became part of a kingdom which stretched into Cambodia and Laos. The Burmese captured the city in 1556 and stayed there until 1775 when Chiang Mai was recaptured by the Thais. It then became an important centre for trading. This was facilitated by its location making it a crossroads for traders from China, Laos and Myanmar. Chiang Mai was officially integrated into Siam in 1933.

Its attractions are more accessible than in Bangkok as it is possible to cover most of the city by bike or on foot. Bicycles can be hired from the guesthouses. April to June is very hot and September is the rainiest month so best to avoid these times. Cheap, friendly accommodation for travellers is readily available. Chiang Mai is much more laid back than Bangkok, making it a more appealing place to visit in some ways. The city centre is surrounded by a moat and the ruins of the original city walls. Surrounded by mountains, Chiang Mai is quite atmospheric and makes a good base if planning to explore north Thailand. Chiang Mai has an international airport and is on a train line linking it to Bangkok.

thailand attractions
thailand attractions
thailand attractions
thailand attractions
thailand attractions