Golden Chedi at Doi Suthep temple, Chiang Mai

Travellers who have had enough of the noise, traffic and bustling hustle of Bangkok, and need a change from stunning golden beaches, should head to Chiang Mai. A stimulating yet relaxed city in the north of Thailand where a common phrase is “sa-baai sa-baai” meaning, “it’s all good”. Offering a range of attractions, from elephant trekking, to Muay Thai, Chiang Mai is a must stop in a Thai travel agenda.

Most Farrang (foreigners) stay in one of the budget guest houses, and whether arriving by plane, train or bus, there will be plenty of tuk tuks waiting to get their commission by dropping travellers off at one. Most of these accommodations also offer tickets for the popular trekking tours and will organise everything with a minimum of fuss.

Huay sai leuang waterfall in Doi Inthanon national park near Chiang Mai

The trekking tours can be for one day or more, and usually include a combination of exploring the countryside around Chiang Mai, meeting native hill tribes, elephant rides, and trips down rivers on bamboo rafts. These tours are ideal for people who want to do a lot in a little time, and don’t mind following a beaten path. However, some level of fitness is required, as there will be a lot of walking.

In the north of Chiang Mai, Doi Suhtep dominates the vista, and is well worth climbing. However, no need to don the hiking boots, this mountain is easily accessible by bus tour, tuk tuk, or hired motorbike. Buses stop about halfway up at the temple, Wat Phrathat, but that is by no means all there is to see. With a hired bike, the road can be followed much further up for many superb panoramic views of the city. At night these views are perhaps even more enchanting.

Flower Market in Chiang Mai

In the evenings, Chan Klan road in the city centre city comes alive with an eclectic range of stalls in the colourful night market. Due to Chiang Mai’s proximity to the areas of production, this market is one of the cheapest in Thailand (with appropriate amounts of bargaining!). It’s possible to buy anything from silk to sarongs, and copy brands to antiques.

An integral part of Thai culture is Muay Thai or Thai kick boxing, and Chiang Mai offers ample opportunity to watch, or even train in, this ancient and exciting martial art. Dechanukrau boxing ring, on Bumrungrat Road, has a fight night every Saturday and Sunday, and is bubbling with atmosphere and culture. However, for those looking to train, Lanna Muay Thai (at 161, Soi Chang Kian) is a professional boxing camp close to the mountains which has a mix of Thai and foreign fighters.

There are many other options for this exciting and accessible city, including massages, cooking courses and an abundance of restaurants to sample. So get out there and explore!