|
The
North of Thailand
The
North is a mountainous region comprising natural forests, ridges
and deep, narrow, alluvial valleys.
A
mountainous area where winter temperatures are cool enough to
allow the cultivation of temperate fruits such as apples,
strawberries and peaches, the North offers the tourist a
pleasing alternative to the bright lights of Bangkok and the
beaches of the south and the Gulf of Thailand.
Chiang
Mai is the major city of the North. Also called “Rose of
the North”, Chiang Mai is the focal point of local farming
communities with a thriving market. It is also a popular tourist
destination with both Thai and overseas visitors who enjoy the
city’s slow pace of life, its many ancient temples, and its
various cottage industries which are generally concentrated in
villages on the city outskirts. Umbrellas, silverware,
nielloware, woodcarving and silk are just some of the best known
Chiang Mai products.
In
the northern forests, visitors can see elephant training camps (these
huge beasts are still used in the teak forests) as well as the
colourful nomadic tribes that still roam this corner of Thailand.
There are also opportunities for rafting and trekking.
The
north,for centuries an independent kingdom and center of culture
and religion, is dotted with many ancient historical sites and
monuments,among them the Sukhothai Historical Park, the Doi
Suthep Shrine in Chiang Mai,and the Phra Buddha Chinarat image
in Phitsanulok. Northerners celebrate such festivals as Songkran
[the traditional Thai New Year] and Phao Thien Len Fai,to name
but two.
The
north is also home to a patchwork of hill tribes-the Musers,Yao,
Meo,E-kaw, and Karen-who each possess thier own distinctive
culture and way of life.
The
lowland northerners are note as a gentle and hospitable people.
In addition the region abounds with many natural attractions
such as mountain scenery,caves waterfalls, and lakes. Other
attractions include bargain hunting for local and tribal
handicrafts in the bazaars and markets, while in the major towns
Western-style night entertainment is widely available.
In
the northern forests, visitors can see elephent training camps [these
huge beasts are still used in the teak forests] as well as the
colourful normadic tribes that still roam this corner of
Thailand.There are also opportunities for rafting and trekking.
The
legend location in the North of Thailand
|
