"เชียงใหม่เจริญยิ่งยวด | Chiang Mai, the city of beauty and prosperity"
About:
Chiang Mai, a city in northern Thailand, was founded in 1296 by King Mengrai as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. It flourished as a religious, cultural, and trade center due to its strategic location. After falling under Burmese rule in the 16th century, it was reclaimed by Siam in 1775. The city was modernized in the 19th century under King Rama V and further developed after World War II. Today, Chiang Mai is a major tourist destination, known for its historic temples and cultural festivals.
When to visit:
Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, experiences three main seasons: hot season, rainy season, and cool season. The ideal time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cool season, which typically runs from November to February. During these months, temperatures are milder, and the city experiences less rainfall, creating pleasant conditions for exploring the area's temples, markets, and natural attractions. Visitors can also enjoy popular events such as the Yi Peng Lantern Festival and the Flower Festival during this time.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Chiang Mai on a holiday is during the annual burning season, typically occurring from late February to April. This period is characterized by heavy smog and poor air quality due to agricultural burning practices in the region. Travelers with respiratory issues may experience discomfort and health risks during this time. It is advisable to avoid visiting Chiang Mai during the burning season and instead opt for travel during the cooler and clearer months of November to February.
"Rainy Season (May–October)"
In Chiang Mai, the wettest period is from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall in September. Average temperatures range from 23-30°C, but humidity can make it feel warmer. Rain showers are typically heavy but short, often occurring in the late afternoon or evening. Sunlight is moderate, with cloud cover increasing throughout the day. Despite the rain, there's usually several hours of sunshine. An average day for a visitor might start sunny and hot, then turn into a cooler, rainy afternoon, perfect for indoor activities or café hopping.
Hot Season (March-May)
The warmest part of the year in Chiang Mai, Thailand, typically falls between March and June. During these months, the average high temperature ranges from 33°C to 36°C (91°F to 97°F), while the average lows range from 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F).
Rainfall during these months is relatively low, especially in March and April, with monthly averages ranging from 20mm to 90mm. The onset of the rainy season in June increases the rainfall to around 130mm.
Sunlight is abundant during this period, with an average of 9 to 10 hours of daylight per day. However, the humidity levels also rise, ranging from 50% to 70%, which can make the heat feel more intense.
Cloudiness varies throughout these months. March and April are relatively clear, while May and June see an increase in cloud cover due to the approaching rainy season.
For a visitor, a typical day during the warmest part of the year in Chiang Mai would feel hot, especially in the afternoon. The mornings and evenings are more comfortable, with cooler temperatures. Despite the heat, it's typically a good time to explore the city and its surroundings, but do remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. The increasing humidity and cloudiness towards June might bring occasional afternoon showers, adding a refreshing touch to the tropical heat.
Language:
In Chiang Mai, the most commonly spoken language is Northern Thai, also known as Lanna or Kham Mueang. This is the local dialect of the region. However, Central Thai, the official language of Thailand, is also widely spoken and understood. English is prevalent as well, particularly in tourist areas and among younger generations due to its inclusion in the educational curriculum.