SUTHEP ROUTE

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1) Kruba Srivichai Monument and Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

Situated 7 kms from town, Kruba Srivichai monument was built to commemorate Kruba Srivichai, who saw the hardship of the climb and initiated a plan to construct a road up Suthep Mountain to the temple and monastery. The man and therefore the monument are highly popular among the local Thais who regularly come here to make wishes.

Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, perched high on the flank of Suthep Mountain, 1,022 m (3,000ft) above sea level, is Chiang Mai's most famous temple. The pagoda in its centre contains some of the relics of the Lord Buddha. The temple is visited thoughout the year by thousands of tourists and Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world.

2) Phuping palace

After Doi Suthep, the road continues to climb through pine forest to Phuping Palace on Doi Buak Ha, 22 kms from town. Phuping Palace, built in 1962, is a summer residence of the royal family, used as headquarters for overseeing development projects in northern Thai and hilltribe villages. The beautiful flower gardens (cf.Northern Route) are open to the public from 8.30am to 4.00pm Friday to Sunday and on official holidays.

3) Doi Pui Tribal Village

A 'seelor' (red pick-up converted in local taxi) will continue for about 3Km to the Hmong tribal village of Doi Pui - which will give you vignettes of modern hilltribe life. Of interest in the village are also the Opium Museum and the Hilltribe Museum.

NORTHERN ROUTE

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1) Pong Yang Elephant Camp

During the 09:40 AM show, visitors can watch elephants bathing, dragging logs and performing other feats.

2) Mae Sa Waterfalls

The Mae Sa Waterfalls is an eight level waterfall which occupies a tranquil setting amid gigantic trees.

3) Mae Sa Butterfly Farm and Orchid Farm

A large variety of beautiful butterflies are raised in a spacious garden at the Mae Sa Butterfly Farm. The farm gift shop sells framed butterfly specimens, a wide variety continuously blooming orchids and jewelry (cf.Shopping Tour) made from fresh flowers electroplated in gold.

Lunch at Orchid Farm Restaurant

(Chiang Mai Snake farm)

WESTERN ROUTE

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1) Chiang Mai - Hang Dong Road

A few kilometres from town on Highway 108 heading toward Hod - are located woodcarving and lacquerware shops. The shopping area which also includes many ceramic, silver and bamboo craft stores, continues until Km. 15. These shops provide you with the opportunity to observe woodcarving and neo-antiques being made. You may also purchase these items at inexpensive wholesale prices.

2) Wat Prathat Si Chom Thong

58 kms southwest of Chiang Mai is the town of Chom Thong, home of the handsome Wat (Temple) Prathat Si Chom Thong, a popular temple with Thais and tourists alike.

3) Mae Klang Waterfalls

After Chom Thong, the road leads to Doi Inthanon National Park. At the foot of the mountain you find the lovely Mae Klang Falls, Chiang Mai's most photographed waterfall.

4) Doi Inthanon National Park

At Km. 8 is the entrance to Doi Inthanon National Park, a 1,005 square kilometres area which includes Thailand's highest mountain and areas of dense virgin rain forest. Located at the summit is a shrine to Chao Inthanon, a former prince of Chiang Mai.

EASTERN ROUTE

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1) Chiang Mai - Sankampaeng Road

The largest and most popular of the local handicraft factories are situated along a 13 km stretch of the Chiang Mai - Sankampaeng Road. Both sides of the road are lined with factories and showrooms where you have the opportunity to observe the craftsmen and women at work and purchase their fine products.

2) Bor Sang Village

Farther along the road is Bor Sang - the world-famous village which sells cotton umbrellas and paper parasols handpainted in wide varieties of floral and animals designs.

3) Sankampaeng Hot Springs

For lunch, you can head for the the Sankampaeng Hot Springs Restaurant. The hot springs boil continously and emit a strong smell of sulphur. You can also enjoy watching the thermal geysers rising inside the beautifuly landscaped flower gardens within the park area.