When visiting Thailand, Chiang Mai is a must stop. It is in the North of Thailand and has a beautiful mountain that overlooks the city. The weather is slightly cooler there than in Bangkok. In Chiang Mai’s region is where Thailand’s hill-tribe people. Many of these people make handicrafts and are involved in the textile business of Thailand. Thailand is known for its gorgeous Thai silk. Much of the Thai silk is made in the North.

Gorgeous Golden Temple 

While in Chiang Mai, there are many sights to see. The King’s winter palace is one of them. You can tour the grounds while you are in Chiang Mai. Another sight to see is the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. It is located at the top of the mountain. The views are breathtaking from the top. To get up to the temple, you must climb 309 steps to reach the top’s golden “chedi.” 

Pandas at the Zoo

Another must-see is the Chiang Mai Zoo, where you can see Thailand’s pandas on loan from China. The zoo also has a very nice aquarium with a glass tunnel where sharks swim above your head. 

Take Care of an Elephant for the Day

In Chiang Mai is where the elephants belong. It is cooler, and the forests and mountain is their natural habitat. There are many elephant camps in the Chiang Mai area where you can have an elephant ride. There are also somewhere you can take care of an elephant for the day. You feed it, play with it, ride it, and even bathe it. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity that cannot be missed.

Dine Near the Waterfall

The restaurant Huen Huay Kaew is an open-air restaurant up on the top of the mountain. The views of the waterfall are outstanding from your seat as you dine. The Thai food here is very authentic, and they serve many of Chiang Mai’s unique dishes, such as Khao Soi. Khao Soi is a yellow curry that is filled with egg noodles like a stew. They garnish the top with fried noodles and pickled radish, limes and herbs come on the side. It is a delicious treat, not to be missed.

Night Safari

The Chiang Mai Night Safari is quite the spectacle. You ride a trolly around the park where animals are roaming free. You can feed them before and during the safari. There are deer, ostrich, zebras, and even giraffes at the park that you can feed. The safari also goes to see other various animals, including Asian elephants and Asian tigers.

Night Bazaar

Before you leave, don’t miss out on going to Chiang Mai’s night bazaar. You can bargain with the sellers and buy all of your souvenirs there. The most popular items are Thai silk scarves and pillowcases, elephant carvings, t-shirts, and other handmade items. Chiang Mai makes the perfect side trip while visiting Thailand. Don’t miss out on all of these wonderful experiences.