Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

This famous and important temple founded since 1383 enjoys a prominent position in Chiang Mai, overlooking the city from its mountainside perch. It sits about 3,520 feet above sea level and is accessible via a steep naga staircase comprising around 300 steps.

The temple has a huge golden chedi (spire), within which lie some holy Buddha relics that attract devotees from the world over. To reach the temple itself requires a climb up a naga staircase of 309 steps. For the faint of heart, there's also a funicular cable-car to the top which has just been re-built after several fatal crashes. The fare for the new improved funicular is 20 Baht per person.

The chedi is in a small courtyard at the very peak of the mountain. The courtyard building sits on a larger plaza containing several buildings as well as a lookout point from which you can see, weather permitting, all of Chiang Mai and the surrounding plain.

The visiting hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Sunday. The site is situated at the Continuation of Huay Keaw Road, Chiang Mai 50300 Thailand . For more information you can send email to prdiv3@tat.or.th or contact the tourist information service at +66 53 24 8604.

Mae Sa elephant Training center

The majestic elephants in one of Thailand 's best elephant camps along the Mae Sa Valley. Over here, you can get the chance to watch these mammoth creatures play football, among other tricks everyday with the fees of THB80.

You can also get the opportunity to ride an elephant from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. through the local countryside, feed them with bananas and sugarcane, and take plenty of photographs. Also within the camp you will find an elephant nursery and a rafting center (open 8 a.m.to 4 p.m. daily).

The Show times are: 8 a.m.

Chiang Mai Arts Cultural Centre

The Chiang Mai Arts Cultural Centre is a welcome addition to the city's museums and galleries. It is situated in a lovely two-storey building in the heart of the old city, right behind the Three Kings Monument .

The ground floor of the centre features exhibits on the pre-Chiang Mai period, the city's founding, relationships with other cities and changes in the last 100 years.

The entrance fee for foreigners is THB100.

Night Bazaar

Though the main Night Bazaar is located in a rather drab three-storey building, this shoppers' paradise also sprawls along the entire Chang Klan Road .

The street stalls sell a variety of items, including fine Thai silk, antiques, silver, clothing, handicrafts, CDs, videos, perfumes and watches. Many imitation branded goods flock the market, and wandering vendors will try to sell you an unusual range of products.