Location Chiang Mai, 761 kms. by rail, approximately 700 kms. by road north of Bangkok, with an area of 20,107.1 sq.lms., is Thailand's second largest city and capital of the northern region. Chiang Mai is administratively divided into 22 Amphurs districts)
Muang, Chiang Dao, Chom Thong, Doi Saket, Doi Tao, Fang, Hang Dong, Hod, Mae Ai, Mae Chaem, Mae Rim, Mae Taeng, Omkoi, Phrao, Samoeng, San Kamphaeng, San Pa Tong, San Sai, Saraphi, Wiang Haeng, Chai Prakan, and Mae Wang.
Situated between north latitude 17-21 and east longitude 98-99, the province of Chiang Mai is found in the upper area of Thailand's northern region. Chiang Mai valley is 310 meters (1,027 feet) above sea level. The widest point of the province measures 136 kms. (85 miles), and the longest 320 kms. (200 miles). To the north, a 277 kms. (141.82 miles) stretch of mountains divides Chiang Mai's northern districts of Fang and Mae Ai from Myanmar's (Burma's) Chiang Tung (Shan) State. In certain areas, the Kok River also acts as a border between Chiang Mai and Myanmar. On the east, Chiang Mai is bordered by the Chaing Rai, Lampang, and Lamphun provinces. The Mae Tuen River, Ream Mountain, and Luang Mountain separate Chiang Mai's South from the province of Tak. Some portions of Chiang Mai's South also border the Lamphun province. To the west, Chiang Mai is bordered by Mae Hong Son province.
Chiang Mai is a city built on a traditional heritage that is deeply robled into the soil of time. The city is a beautiful cultural personality of its own. In addition, it is blessed with much pristine beauty in nature. The people themselves are an unforgettable part of Chiang Mai. Handicrafts of silk, silver and wood are timeless souvenirs for visitors from all over the globe. Along with all this, a wide variety of accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment all help to make Chiang Mai one of Thailand's prime tourist attractions.
Chiang Mai is often spoken of by tourists and visitors as being a city with a distinct beauty and cultural heritage of its own. Along with its numerous ancient temples and buildings, Nature adds her own handiwork in the majestic mountains and combines to compose a captivating symphony which draws both domestic and international tourists back to see this city of old time, again and again.
Climate Cool Season: Late October to end of Februry. Average temperature 21 C. and much cooler at night. The coolest months are December and January Hot Season: Early March to end of May. Average temperature 29.9 C. The hottest month is April. Rainy Season: Early June to end of October. Average temperature 25.5 C. The wettest month is September.
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