One of the best-kept secrets in the “country of smiles” may be found in the cities of northern Thailand. First and foremost, because they have a long history and a legacy that is all their own. In addition to this, it is a mountainous and scenic region, and it is also one of the locations on earth where people of different ethnic groups can still be found living in mountain villages. As a result, today we will provide you with information on what there is to see in the northern region of Thailand, allowing you to select whatever interests you the most.
The essential things to see in northern Thailand
Temple ruins in Sukhothai
The temples of Sukhothai are widely regarded as some of the most stunning examples of northern Thailand’s architectural tradition. Inside the wall, the Wat Mahathat, which is the city’s hub of religious practise, and the Wat Si Sawai, which features stunning towers designed in the Khmer style, stand out. In addition, there is Wat Sa Si, known for its stupa in the shape of a bell, as well as the quaint and little Wat Sorasak. On the other hand, the most well-known temple is located beyond the wall and is called Wat Sri Chum. It has a stone Buddha that is 15 metres tall. In addition, there is the Khmer-style temple of Wat Phra Pai Luang, which dates back to the 13th century.
The Golden Triangle, the opium trade in northern Thailand
The Golden Triangle is located in northern Thailand, where it shares a border with both Myanmar and Laos. Opium trade was popular until the late 1970s in these two countries, which were divided by the Mekong River. For this reason, taking a boat tour on the river is the greatest approach to become acquainted with the breathtaking scenery that the region has to offer. Due to its location on the border of three different countries—Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand—this location was somewhat of a “no man’s land.” As a result, his tale is replete with con artists and exudes an air of literary gravitas. Something that attests to the fact that the well-known Opium Museum was visited, in which numerous artifacts of all types relating to the usage of this narcotic may be viewed.
White Temple and Blue Temple in Chiang Rai
These contemporary works have brought Chiang Rai to the attention of those who are passionate in architecture. The White Temple is notable in its own right due to the fact that it is completely white from floor to ceiling and is coated with little crystals that sparkle when exposed to sunlight. In addition, for the sculptures that are placed throughout its gardens and on its front. In addition to the well-known pop murals that may be found inside. Indigo, which, according to Theravada Buddhism, is a representation of the Buddha’s morality, totally covers the Blue Temple in this particular instance. In addition, one of the most magnificent and intriguing pieces of art in northern Thailand is finished off with a plethora of golden ornaments and a massive white Buddha that can be found within.
Wat Phratat Doi Suthep, one of the most beautiful in northern Thailand
This stunning temple may be found in a national park 16 kilometres away from the city of Chiang Mai. It is perched atop the Doi Suthep mountain. Because of this, the temple boasts stunning vistas of the countryside that surrounds the city. Although it is possible to get there via a funicular, individuals who are physically capable can up the 306 steps to get there. On the other hand, the temple atop Doi Suthep is considered to be among the most sacred in all of Thailand. First and foremost, since it is home to a massive golden chedi that houses sacred Buddhist artefacts. In addition to the temple, the mountain is home to the Bhubing royal castle as well as the Huay Kaew waterfall. In addition, there are a few towns where members of the Hmong tribe dwell.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park, the most well-known park in northern Thailand, is located around 70 kilometres south of Chiang Mai. Specifically, by waterfalls such as those located in Wachirathan and Sirithan. In addition to this, it is known for the stunning panoramas that can be seen from its mountains, as well as for the wild animals and the hiking trails. In addition, this park is home to the Doi Inthanon mountain, which stands at a height of 2,565 metres and is referred to be the “roof of Thailand.”
Temples of the walled city of Chiang Mai
The historic district of Chiang Mai is enclosed behind a wall with moats, which harkens back to the days of conflict with the Burmese during the time that northern Thailand was ruled by the Lanna Kingdom. In addition, the city has a rich past, which includes more than 300 temples that are remarkable for the tremendous beauty of their architecture. The Wat Phra Singh temple is one of the most notable of these, as it is the location of the city’s guardian. In particular, a Buddha statue made of bronze that was brought over from Sri Lanka in the year 1376. Also, there is the Wat Chedi Luang, which is well-known for its enormous brick stupa and for being the location where the Emerald Buddha of Bangkok was enshrined. In addition, there is the Wat Chiang Man temple, which was commissioned during the 13th century by King Mengrai, the city’s namesake and creator.
Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai
These sanctuaries for elephants are quite well-known in the country of Thailand. In point of fact, there are around 70 shrines dispersed across the nation. However, those located in and around Chiang Mai are the very finest. First and foremost, a good number of them exhibit a high level of regard for animals. In point of fact, they watch out for their wellbeing and make sure they eat well. Because of this, going to locations such as Happy Elephant Camp is your best bet if you want to spend the day bathing with elephants, feeding them, or otherwise tending to their needs. Or, in his particular situation, the Ran-Tong Elephant Save and Rescue together with the Elephant Eco Valley.
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