North Wheels Sightseeing Suggestions For Chiang Mai

One of the more popular northern Thai excursions, the trip to Chiang Rai and beyond to the legendary Golden triangle is one through astonishing valleys and beautiful mountain scenery. On the way to Chiang Rai lies Doi Saket, a hill on top of which lies a temple. Further still, is Doi Nang Kaew. At the top of this hill many people honk their horns to show their respect to the spirit Nang Kaeo. A female spirit said to haunt the area, her shrine can be seen on the left side of the road where many villagers would offer up wooden phalluses. Buddhists have since erected a statue of Buddha and a sign that reads "Nang Kaeo has gone to paradise and doesn't need penises anymore". Some villagers, however, still hide phalluses behind the Buddha statue.

Once a quiet remote town much like Mae Hong Son, Chiang Rai has undergone a great deal of rapid development in recent years arguably lessening its traditional charm. Founded by King Mengrai in 1262, Chiang Rai was at one time an important trading hub for Thailand and Burma. Until recently, Chiang Rai was the center for most of the opium trade in Thailand. Many development projects in the area however, sponsored by the late Princess Mother (the Kings mother), has significantly lessened the Drug trade in Thailand. Today, Chiang Rai has developed into a modern city that is fueled to a significant extent by tourism. Though its not the small town that it once was, it is an ideal base for treks and excursions as the surrounding countryside is very beautiful and well worth the trip.

There are many travel agencies, guest houses and hotels that offer trekking. Most excursions take you through the Doi Tung and Chiang Khong areas. As Chiang Rai was one of the first places to offer trekking in Thailand, there are many experienced guides.

If you plan to visit any hill tribes it may be worth while to visit this museum/handicraft center on the hill tribes of Thailand. Operated by the nonprofit Population & Community Development Association (PDA), the center has numerous exhibits as well as a slide show.

If you are interested in local handicrafts and/or traditional Northern Thai dancing and music, the local night bazaar has plenty to offer. In some cases, you can find better prices for antiques, silverwork, and various other handicrafts in Chiang Rai than in Chiang Mai.

For More Information Contact:
Head Office : 70/4-8 Chaiyaphum Rd., Changmoi, Muang, Chiang Mai, 50300
TEL: ( 66 53 ) 874-478 FAX: ( 66 53 ) 874-378
Email: sales@northwheels.com

Chiang Rai branch : 591 Paholyotin Rd., Viang, Muang, Chiang Rai, 57000
TEL: ( 66 53 ) 740-585 FAX: ( 66 53 ) 740-588
Email: chiangrai@northwheels.com

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