One of Thailand’s kings call this city as the ‘prime diamond on the crown of Thailand’. UNESCO has awarded it the title of ‘Creative City’. Founded in the 13th century, it is a gorgeous city located on the banks of the Ping river. I am talking about Chiang Mai, the city of temples and rich culture that is located in the mountainous region of Northern Thailand. Rich trade and many conquests have given this city as diverse and vibrant culture with many gorgeous temples, colourful markets and unique traditions. This article aims to show you the cultural gem city of Chiang Mai through a travel photography series. Hope you enjoy it and may be add it to your travel bucket-list.
Above travel photo: Inside the golden chamber of Wat Chedi Luang with a massive statue of Lord Buddha looking at you.
Above travel photo: One of Chiang Mai’s biggest attractions has to be the floating lantern festival, which takes place on two days. One, during Loi Krathong festival day and the other on New Year’s Eve. These lanna style sky lanterns in the night sky are a sight to behold.
Above travel photo: Due to its many Buddhist temples, one will usually come across a lot of Buddhist monks in Chiang Mai. These are two young Buddhist monk students I met at Wat Chedi Luang.
Above travel photo: One of Chiang Mai’s most famous landmarks, visitors are offering their prayers at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, that is located about 14 kms from Chiang Mai city.
Above travel photo: Artisans of all types can be seen at Chiang Mai. This is a metal sculptor seen just outside of Wat Chedi Luang.
Above travel photo: The sight of a monk decked in orange or green is a common sight in Chiang Mai. You can see him at a phone store, at an ATM or simply crossing the roads of Chiang Mai.
Above travel photo: A place of gorgeous natural beauty, Bhubing palace is a royal residence that is decked with many flowering gardens and water fountains.
Above travel photo: Wat Phan Tao is an ancient temple located next to Wat Chedi Luang. It is known for its exquisite Lanna style ordination hall that is made entirely of teakwood.
Above travel photo: Such signboards are the norm at Wat Chedi Luang and they give inspiring messages to the visitors.
Above travel photo: These dragons greet the visitors at the start of their arduous climb to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Above travel photo: Chinese New Year flags can be seen floating on the top of the Wat Chedi Luang temple.
Above travel photo: This is an ancient stupa seen near Wat Chedi Luang. Many such stupas can be seen throughout Chiang Mai, but this one was one of the few that isn’t in ruins.
Above travel photo: A tree of golden leaves seen at Wat Chedi Luang. Either the visitors write something on it and hang it on the tree or it is hung by the temple priests where each leaf signifies a human quality.
Above travel photo: A row of Buddha statues can be seen at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the more beautiful temples of Chiang Mai.
Above travel photo: The famous rose gardens in the Bhubing palace located near Chiang Mai.
Above travel photo: The gorgeous head gear of a local girl who was sitting at the entrance of the 13th century Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple near Chiang Mai.
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