Destination

Wat Chang Kong, once named "Wat Si Phun To," spans two areas divided by Loi Kroh Road. The northern site houses the primary temple structures, attracting worshippers seeking solace. Adjacent to the InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping, the southern site, overseen by the hotel, showcases a modest assembly hall and Lanna-era white stupa. The main site unveils a remarkable Chinese-style "hor trai" or Bible Hall, adorned with exquisite murals on its upper floor.

Set atop the mountain of Doi Suthep, this temple was founded in 1383 to house a fragment of bone from the Buddha’s shoulder, carried to the peak, according to legend, by a white elephant. The 306-step staircase to the temple is flanked by jewelled naga. A funicular railway is available. Within the compound is a gold-plated chedi, pagodas, bells, shrines, ancient murals and a museum, and the views of city and mountain are astounding.

Nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai, Wat Sri Suphan, also known as the Silver Temple, is a captivating masterpiece of Thai architecture. The intricate silver patterns adorning the temple walls, ceilings, and pillars are a visual feast for the eyes and a testament to the extraordinary craftsmanship of local artisans. Visitors can participate in silver-making workshops, where they can learn about the art of silversmithing and create their own unique pieces of jewellery.

Elephant Rescue Park offers a nurturing haven for rescued and mistreated elephants. Nestled in Chiang Mai, this purpose-built sanctuary provides a permanent refuge, saving elephants from the hardships of circuses, logging, and mistreatment camps. Embark on the Elephant Care tours, available in half-day, full-day, and overnight options. Prepare for intimate one-on-one interactions that will deepen your bond with these incredible beings.

Located in the old city centre, close to Wat Phra Singh, the museum building is a century old and was once Chiang Mai’s central administrative office. Its conversion into a museum received an award in 1999 from the Royal Society of Siamese Architects. Through fifteen halls, the museum displays the history of Chiang Mai and the cultural identity of its people through multimedia presentations, with an outdoor courtyard for live performances.

Housed in a big old converted warehouse, the shining facade and coolly stylish interior are an appropriate setting for displaying the works of local artists and contemporary masters. A mix of rotating and permanent exhibitions are housed here. Located in the Sankampaeng district, the museum is a short drive to the east of Chiang Mai city centre and close to the famous Bo Sang umbrella-making centre, and the two can comfortably be visited on the same day.

Created by the Rojanapirom family, who are noted architects and believe that arts, crafts and culture are integral to life. The village lies in the heart of Chiang Mai Old City and has eight houses made of black brick and connected by walkways. There is a coffee house, a library, a gallery, an events space, an archive with a permanent private collection of textiles on exhibition from different regions of Thailand, Indonesia and Myanmar, and shops selling goods designed by local communities.

In a lush setting with fruit and dye trees, Studio Naenna is a picturesque indigo dye shop featuring traditional Karen weavers and eco-friendly fabrics such as silk and cotton, together with public workshops. A community of women weavers, embroiderers, and designers run the studio, and here can be seen the deep blue from 25-year-old indigo dye vats, the materials used to create brilliant colours from leaves, seeds and woods, and the weaving of brocades on Karen back-strap looms.