Baankiri Guest House

How to get Around Chiang Mai

2010-06-26T16:06:00.000+07:00

By Bus -- There are five routes in and around the city, each charging a fixed 10B (30¢/15p) fare. Services start at 6am, finish close to 10pm, and run approximately every 15 minutes. From Chang Puak Bus Station, there is frequent, inexpensive bus service to the nearby craft villages of Sankampaeng and Bo Sang, and to Lamphun.

By Songtaew -- Songtaews (red pickup trucks) cover all routes. Fitted with two long bench seats, they are also known locally as seelor (four-wheels). They follow no specific route and have no fixed stopping points. Hail one going in your general direction and tell the driver your destination. If it fits in with the destinations of other passengers, you'll get a ride to your door for only 15B to 30B (43¢-86¢/20p-45p). Some drivers will ask exorbitant fees as if they are a taxi (especially when they're empty); let these guys just drive on. If you can deal with a bit of uncertainty along the confusing twist of roads, a songtaew is a great way to explore the city.Songtaews can also take you up to the top of Doi Suthep Mountain for 40B (US$1.15/60p) and only 30B (85¢/45p) for the easier downhill return trip.

By Tuk-Tuk -- The ubiquitous tuk-tuk (motorized three-wheeler) is the next best option to the songtaew for getting around Chiang Mai. Fares are negotiable -- and you will have to bargain hard to get a good rate -- but expect to pay at least 40B (US$1.15/60p) for any ride.

When talking prices, it is good to write it down on a scrap of paper, so there is no argument when you get there and the driver asks for 200B (US$5.70/£3.10) instead of the 20B (60¢/30p) you agreed on.

By Car -- Avis has an office conveniently located at the airport (tel.05320-1798; www.avisthailand.com). Avis self-drive rental rates for Chiang Mai are the same as they are elsewhere in Thailand, from 2,500B and up (US$71/£38) for a compact sedan. Budget has an office at the airport and offers comparable rates and services; contact them at tel. 05320-2871(www.budget.co.th). Both companies offer comprehensive insurance and provide good maps -- even a mini guidebook.

There are dozens of local car-rental companies with sedans for 1,200B to 1,800B (US$34-US$51/£18-£28) per day, and Suzuki Caribbeans (oft-derided as a death trap) for as low as 1,000B (US$28/£15) per day. Most travel agents will arrange a car and driver for about 1,600B (US$45/£25) per day.

By Motorcycle -- Many guesthouses along the Ping River and shops around Chaiyaphum Road (north of Thapae Gate in the Old City) rent 100cc to 150cc motorcycles for about 200B (US$5.70/£3.10) per day (discounts for longer durations). Larger 250cc Hondas (as well as others) with good suspension are commonly available and are the best choice for any trips up-country because of their added power and large fuel tanks; they rent for about 700B (US$20/£11). Helmets are mandatory -- even if locals tend to ignore this law, they may be able to wriggle out of arrest, but as a foreigner, you won't be let off lightly. Expect to leave your passport as security (don't leave any credit cards). Traffic congestion and confusing one-way streets make riding within the city dangerous, so if you are tempted, employ defensive driving techniques and take it slow.

By Bicycle -- Cycling in the city is fun and practical, especially for getting around to the temples within the Old City. Avoid rush hour and take great care on the busy roads outside of the ancient walls. Bikes are available at any of the many guesthouses in or around the old city and go for about 30B (85¢/45p) per day.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

Read more: www.frommers.com

2010-04-21T16:44:00.003+07:00

Chiang Mai History

King Meng Rai founded the city as the capital of the Lanna in 1296 as Nopphaburi Si Nakhonping Chiang Mai. I n the past, the city act as the independent stage ruled by Meng Rai Kingdom from 1296 to 1558.

Afterward, the Burmese, leaded by King Bayinnaung, conquered the Lanna Kingdom in 1558 ending the dynasty that lasted over 200 years. As Burma had occupied Chiang Mai for nearly 200 years. As Burma had occupied Chiang Mai for nearly 200 years, at the end of the 18th century, King Taksin the Great and PHRA BUDDHA YODFA CHULALOKE MAHARAJ (King Rama1) regrouped the Thais nally drove the Burmese out with the help og King Kawila there regaining Thai independence from Burma.

Chiang Mai then governed by a succession of princes who rules the north as a Siamese protectorate under the Chakri dynasty. In the late 19th century, King Rama V appointed a high commissioner in Chiang Mai and it was only in the reign of King Rama VII that Chiang Mai nally came under the direct control of the central goverment in Bangkok as province until now.

2010-04-21T16:01:00.005+07:00

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Metropolitan, one of the major province in the northern part of Thailand, and also one of Asia's most attractive tourist destinations, is the largest and most culturally signicant city, known for its history as the capital of the Lanna (A Million Rice Fields) Kingdom in the ancient time.Having Lanna, Kam Moung as local dialects.

Chiang Mai is geographically the lagest city and most populous in the northern provinces of Thailand. With a population of 1.67 million. the urban sprawl of the city now extends over 20,107,057 square kilometer or approximately 12,566,911 Rai.

Chiang Mai not only became the capital and cultural core of Lanna Kingdom, it was also full of Cultural identity which is the capital of culture tradition and art inux of visitor from all over to live here. Be part of dynamic movement in driving.

Chaing Mai has become an increasingly modren city while driving the growth of economic, investment, raw material and resources as well as other development such as politic.

As several attractions of Chiang Mai's historic. culture and natureal resouces, it potentiality become a very strong brand equity.