This is the Chiang Mai Province chapter from Lonely Planet’s Thailand guidebook.

The province of Chiang Mai, with its cooling mist-shrouded mountains bursting with dense jungle, has long enticed visitors. Highlights of the region include the laid-back city of Chiang Mai, with its moated, partially walled old city; its celebrated ancient temples; and a traveller-friendly scene. Activities such as cycling, hiking, elephant trekking, bird-watching and river rafting offer an escape from the steaming plains.

• Glimpsing the cultural side of the city at the sacred temples of Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang
• maps
• Picking up some bargains at the Saturday Walking Street and Sunday Walking Street
• transport
• restaurants & accommodation
• Stretching out for a traditional massage or meditation course

Coverage includes: Chiang Mai, Northern Chiang Mai Province, Mae Sa Valley & Samoeng, Chiang Dao, Doi Ang Khang, Fang & Tha Ton, Southern Chiang Mai Province, Bo Sang & San Kamphaeng, Mae Kampong, Hang Dong, Ban Wan & Ban Thawai and Doi Inthanon National Park.