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Chiang Mai (in Thai เชียงใหม่ ), also sometimes written as "Chiengmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, and is the capital of Chiang Mai Province. It is located at 18°47′20″N, 98°59′00″ECoordinates: 18°47′20″N, 98°59′00″E, some 700 km north of Bangkok, among some of the highest mountains in the country. The city stands on the Ping river, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya river.
In recent years, Chiang Mai has become an increasingly modern city, although it lacks the cosmopolitan gloss of Bangkok. It has many attractions for the thousands of foreign visitors who come each year. Chiang Mai's historic importance is derived from its important strategic location on an ancient trade route. Long before the modern influx of foreign visitors, the city served as an important centre for handcrafted goods, umbrellas, jewelry (particularly silver) and woodcarving.
While officially the city (thesaban nakhon) of Chiang Mai only covers most parts of the Mueang Chiang Mai district with a population of 150,000, the urban sprawl of the city now extends into several neighboring districts. This Chiang Mai Metropolitan Area has a population of almost 700,000 people, nearly half the total of Chiang Mai Province. The city itself is subdivided into 4 wards: Nakhon Ping, Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kavila. The first three wards are on the west bank, while Kavila is located on the east back of Ping River. Nakhon Ping ward covers the north side of the city. Srivijaya, Mengrai, and Kavila cover the west, south, and east side respectively. The central part(old town) is covered mostly by Srivijaya ward and partly by Nakhon Ping and Mengrai wards. See the map of Chiangmai City wards
Location
Chiang Mai is located between latitude 17° N and 21° N with Myanmar as its northern neighbour. It is bordered by Lamphun and Tak on the south, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lamphun on the east and Mae Hong Son on the west. Situated at about 300 m. above sea level, it is 696 km. away from Bangkok by road and about one hour by air.
Area
With a total area of 20,107 sq. km., Chiang Mai is the second largest province of Thailand.
Climate
There are three seasons in a year -- the rainy season from June to October, the hot season from March to May, and the cool season from November to February. Generally, Chiang Mai is cool and pleasant for the most parts of the year. The coolest months are December and January. The temperature throughout the year varies between 14° - 30° C, while the yearly average temperature is 26° C.
Topography
About 69% of the area of Chiang Mai consists of mountains covered with forests. Mostly located in the north, these mountains form the sources of several rivers and streams which provide the water necessary to Chiang Mai's agriculture. The largest and most important river is the Ping, flowing along for 540 km. from north to south. The highest mountain peak is Doi Inthanon, at 2,575 m. above sea level.
Population
1,658,298 (end Feb 2007) with 815,529 males and 842,769 females. About 10% of the population are hilltribe people living in approximately 1,000 villages in the mountainous districts of Chiang Mai. Six major tribal groups are Karen, Lahu, Lisu, Akha, Yao and Meo.
**Note** The total population includes only permanent residents.
Administration
The provincial administration of Chiang Mai has jurisdiction over 22 counties (amphoes) as follows: Muang, Chiang Dao, Doi Saket, Fang, Hot, Mae Chaem, Mae Taeng, Phrao, San Kamphaeng, San Sai, Wiang Haeng, Chom Thong, Doi Tao, Hang Dong, Mae Ai, Mae Rim, Omkoi, Samoeng, San Pa Tong, Saraphi, Chai Prakan and Mae Wang.
Languages
Standard Thai is used as the official language, but the northern dialect is more widely spoken among the local people. English is understood in business circles and tourist areas.
Products
The most important products are silk, silverware, woodcarvings, lacquerware, ceramics, tobacco and fruits
More information: www.thaiwaysmagazine.com |
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