Chiang Mai

At the mountain's base are two superb waterfalls, Huay Kaew falls (free) and Monthathal falls (200 baht). Here you'll also find the Chiang Mai zoo, home to Asian and international wildlife as well as two famous pandas - 'exchange students' from China on a goodwill mission.

Northern Thailand is a mountainous wilderness of unspoilt forest and Chiang Mai lies at its heart. Not surprisingly it's a popular launching point for hill treks into the interior. These can be arranged from the many travel companies found in Chiang Mai and take you into the heart of rural southeast Asia. Typically they last up to five days, but with less time to spare, we recommend a day or overnight trip to the fabulous Doi Inthanon national park - home of Thailand's highest mountain. Here you can click away at some gorgeous waterfalls, visit hilltribe villages and admire the pristine wilderness area. More on Doi Inthanon.
Chiang Mai visitors are spoilt for choice
Chiang Mai visitors are spoilt for choice

Closer to Chiang Mai is the Mae Sa valley (about 30 minutes' drive), where you'll find the magnificent multi-tiered Mae Sa waterfall (200 baht). orchid farm, monkey and snake farms and botanical gardens. Day trips to this part of Chiang Mai are very worthwhile for the sheer number of activities and sights. You can also experience the thrill of trundling through the jungle on the back of an elephant and learn more about these massive Asian workhorses at the Mae Sa Elephant Camp. More on Mae Sa Valley.
Travellers footage: Poisonous snakes show

To truly appreciate the mountainous beauty of Chiang Mai you can continue on and follow this circular route as it passes through Samoeng and eventually emerges to the south of the city, passing through the lovely resort-laden valley of Krissadadoi. On returning to the city you will be intriqued by the giant Buddha perched atop a hill beside the ancient Wat Doi Kham, near the new Flora Flora Expo grounds and Night Safari.