Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, capital of the Thai north, was founded by King Mangrai in 1296 as the seat of the Lanna kingdom. Its old city is still ringed by a moat and the remains of a brick wall, and holds dozens of historic temples in the distinctive Lanna timber style.

Green mountains and nature reserves surround the city. On Doi Suthep, which overlooks it, stands Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, reached by a stairway of more than 300 steps or by a funicular. About two hours away is Doi Inthanon National Park, with Thailand's highest summit (2,565 m) and its waterfalls.

Chiang Mai is known for its elephant centres. We choose ethical sanctuaries that do not allow riding, where children can help feed the elephants and watch them in their own surroundings.

The north is milder than the south, with cool mornings from December to February. The flight from Bangkok takes about 1 h 10 min.