Monday, July 20, 2015

My Thailand Adventure - Chiang Mai

I wanted to visit the jungles of Thailand and visit the temples and monks - Chiang Mai is the perfect place for this, with it's spectacular mountains, vibrant hill tribes and a relaxed vibe, it is Thailand's unofficial "second city" and is everything Bangkok isn't. We booked a flight from Bangkok and flew easily in to Chiang Mai. There are no words to describe the beauty of this place. We stayed at
Sukantara CascadeResort &Spa. It is situated in the middle of the jungle bordering close to Myanmar people, on a waterfall. We stayed here for 5 nights as there is so much to do in the area.

What we did:

We trekked to the hill side villages and visited the Myanmar people

We spent a day walking in Chiang Mai village.

 

Authentic Thai Massage in the market from the rehabilitated woman prisoners.

We walked the 300 steps up to Doi Suthep...presiding over the mountainous horizon to the northwest of the city, Doi Suthep mountain is the most recognizable landmark in Chiang Mai. Its glimmering mountaintop temple is a popular first stop for visitors. We trekked up the 300-plus steps of the Naga staircase to visit the working monastery and it was amazing. We got blessed by the monks - note that men and women have to go in separately. Advice: go in the early hours of the morning, when you can avoid the heat and crowds, and watch the flickering lights of the city fade as the sun rises.


We ate khao soi my favourite. Nothing says "I'm in Chiang Mai" more than eating a piquant bowl of khao soi, noodles bathed in an intense curry broth topped with crispy noodles.

The dish is traditionally served with chicken or beef with a side of chili paste, pickled cabbage, raw shallots and wedge of lime. delicious.

We visited the temples, and chatted to the monks (dream realised - amazing)

We hiked the National Parks.

 

We visited private monestaries in the hills close to where we stayed. The highlight for me was taking this in and listening to the bells on the temples blowing in the wind, completely spiritual high.

Chiang Mai is amazing and no trip to Thailand is complete without it, it was mesmerising. 

Here is what is sounds like to stand in front of a temple..very beautiful - https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=152&v=8WlQLbQ2TR4





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