The true north centres on its capital Chiang Mai. Nothing like as frenetic or as intense as Bangkok, its rich trading history has left a city populated by artisans and craftsman and combined with a thriving old town and nearly 300 temples it has a cultured and creative air.
A sophisticated city...
Chiang Mai is a broad church made up of many peoples and offers a more rounded view of this magnificent country. 
The city’s level of sophistication may take first time visitors by surprise with boutique hotels, art galleries, spas and a café culture feeding off the region’s superb coffee. With a climate akin to a perfect British summer's day between November and February Chiang Mai is a very comfortable place to stay and explore during our winter.
Cultural highlights include the beautiful hilltop temple of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep that overlooks the city, Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and Wat Phra Singh that houses the city’s most revered Buddha image. Many more temples dot the side streets of the old town and surrounding area and a cultural day tour should be included in any first time visit.
As you wander the warren of city streets you’ll quickly recognise the shopping potential that awaits. Whether you’re tempted by the antiques and art works displayed in the many galleries, the arts and crafts created by the surrounding hill tribes in the local markets and souvenirs touted at the Night Bazaar, the country’s most famous night market, it’s doubtful you’ll escape empty handed.
Easy access to adventure...
Those looking to
discover the joys of soft adventure can branch out in every direction. Surrounded by some of Thailand’s highest peaks there's easy access to trekking, mountain biking trails and peaks to conquer. The high peaks generate magnificent rivers and the chance to test out the white water shouldn't be missed. However elephant encounters are perhaps the most popular holiday experience (with no riding) and we can offer a choice of day tours and mahout courses that sensitively allow you into the life of these magnificent creatures.
Time your holiday right and you can enjoy one of many festivals that light up the city. Perhaps Loi Kratong, where lanterns and banana leaf rafts carry tea lights into the air and across the waterways, or Songkran, famed for its city-wide water fight.
Many visitors understandably come to Chiang Mai because of the opportunity to explore the surrounding dramatic landscapes and enjoy the associated life affirming holiday experiences. But don’t be in a rush to leave as the city itself can offer so much to an inquisitive visitor.