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The origins of vegetable carving are disputed: some believe it to have begun in Japan in ancient times, others believe it to have begun in Sukhothai, Thailand 700 years ago, while still others believe that vegetable carving originated in the time of the Tang dynasty (618-906 CE) and the Song dynasty (960-1279 CE) in China.
Northern Thailand has inherited the culinary legacy of the once powerful Lan Na Kingdom, with ties to neighbouring Burma and the Chinese province of Yunnan. One noteworthy feature is the widespread use of tomatoes in curries and other cooked dishes – elsewhere in Thailand the tomato is usually seen as a salad vegetable.<br/><br/> Distinctive dishes include <i>khao soy</i>– a succulent noodle dish introduced by Muslim caravaneers from China. Wheat noodles are served in a chicken or beef broth with an accompaniment of chopped red onions, pickled cabbage, fresh lime and soy sauce. <i>Nam phrik ong</i>– minced pork with tomatoes and chillies, almost like a Bolognese sauce. Not to be missed is <i>kaeng hang lay</i>– curried pork with ginger and peanuts, often served at weddings and other celebrations. Another favourite is the spicy Chiang Mai sausage, made with <i>naem</i>, or preserved pork. Served with a tray of peanuts, fresh ginger and chilli peppers, Northerners consider this to be an ideal <i>kap klaem</i>, or accompaniment to drinks – usually whisky and soda with plenty of ice.<br/><br/> Visitors to Chiang Mai can sample local cuisine at a northern Khantoke dinner – elegantly served on a low table, usually to the accompaniment of traditional Lan Na dancing.
The origins of vegetable carving are disputed: some believe it to have begun in Japan in ancient times, others believe it to have begun in Sukhothai, Thailand 700 years ago, while still others believe that vegetable carving originated in the time of the Tang dynasty (618-906 CE) and the Song dynasty (960-1279 CE) in China.
The origins of vegetable carving are disputed: some believe it to have begun in Japan in ancient times, others believe it to have begun in Sukhothai, Thailand 700 years ago, while still others believe that vegetable carving originated in the time of the Tang dynasty (618-906 CE) and the Song dynasty (960-1279 CE) in China.
The origins of vegetable carving are disputed: some believe it to have begun in Japan in ancient times, others believe it to have begun in Sukhothai, Thailand 700 years ago, while still others believe that vegetable carving originated in the time of the Tang dynasty (618-906 CE) and the Song dynasty (960-1279 CE) in China.
The origins of vegetable carving are disputed: some believe it to have begun in Japan in ancient times, others believe it to have begun in Sukhothai, Thailand 700 years ago, while still others believe that vegetable carving originated in the time of the Tang dynasty (618-906 CE) and the Song dynasty (960-1279 CE) in China.
The food of Northern Thailand, like the language, traditional dress and architecture, is quite distinct from that of Bangkok and central Thailand.<br/><br/> Northern Thai cuisine differs from central Thai cuisine in that it is clearly influenced by the traditions of neighbouring Burma, Laos and Yunnan. To begin with, the staple is not <i>khao suai</i>, the soft, fragrant boiled rice of the central plains so familiar to Westerners. Instead, the Khon Muang prefer to eat <i>khao niaw</i>, or glutinous sticky rice. This is steamed, served in tiny wicker baskets, and eaten with the fingers along with a selection of spicy dips and curries.
The food of Northern Thailand, like the language, traditional dress and architecture, is quite distinct from that of Bangkok and central Thailand.<br/><br/> Northern Thai cuisine differs from central Thai cuisine in that it is clearly influenced by the traditions of neighbouring Burma, Laos and Yunnan. To begin with, the staple is not <i>khao suai</i>, the soft, fragrant boiled rice of the central plains so familiar to Westerners. Instead, the Khon Muang prefer to eat <i>khao niaw</i>, or glutinous sticky rice. This is steamed, served in tiny wicker baskets, and eaten with the fingers along with a selection of spicy dips and curries.
The food of Northern Thailand, like the language, traditional dress and architecture, is quite distinct from that of Bangkok and central Thailand.<br/><br/> Northern Thai cuisine differs from central Thai cuisine in that it is clearly influenced by the traditions of neighbouring Burma, Laos and Yunnan. To begin with, the staple is not <i>khao suai</i>, the soft, fragrant boiled rice of the central plains so familiar to Westerners. Instead, the Khon Muang prefer to eat <i>khao niaw</i>, or glutinous sticky rice. This is steamed, served in tiny wicker baskets, and eaten with the fingers along with a selection of spicy dips and curries.
The origins of vegetable carving are disputed: some believe it to have begun in Japan in ancient times, others believe it to have begun in Sukhothai, Thailand 700 years ago, while still others believe that vegetable carving originated in the time of the Tang dynasty (618-906 CE) and the Song dynasty (960-1279 CE) in China.
The origins of vegetable carving are disputed: some believe it to have begun in Japan in ancient times, others believe it to have begun in Sukhothai, Thailand 700 years ago, while still others believe that vegetable carving originated in the time of the Tang dynasty (618-906 CE) and the Song dynasty (960-1279 CE) in China.
Northern Thailand has inherited the culinary legacy of the once powerful Lan Na Kingdom, with ties to neighbouring Burma and the Chinese province of Yunnan. One noteworthy feature is the widespread use of tomatoes in curries and other cooked dishes – elsewhere in Thailand the tomato is usually seen as a salad vegetable.<br/><br/> Distinctive dishes include khao soy – a succulent noodle dish introduced by Muslim caravaneers from China. Wheat noodles are served in a chicken or beef broth with an accompaniment of chopped red onions, pickled cabbage, fresh lime and soy sauce. Nam phrik ong – minced pork with tomatoes and chillies, almost like a Bolognese sauce. Not to be missed is kaeng hang lay – curried pork with ginger and peanuts, often served at weddings and other celebrations. Another favourite is the spicy Chiang Mai sausage, made with naem, or preserved pork. Served with a tray of peanuts, fresh ginger and chilli peppers, Northerners consider this to be an ideal kap klaem, or accompaniment to drinks – usually whisky and soda with plenty of ice.<br/><br/> Visitors to Chiang Mai can sample local cuisine at a northern Khantoke dinner – elegantly served on a low table, usually to the accompaniment of traditional Lan Na dancing.
Khao soi is a curry broth popular throughout northern Thailand, and believed to have been introduced from Yunnan and Burma by Haw Chinese caravaneers. Perhaps because of this, and perhaps because most Haw are Muslim, it is quite unusual to find pork khao soi—generally the most common meats used are chicken or beef.<br/><br/>Visitors to Chiang Mai may best experience this culinary delight during the day at one of the city's many noodle restaurants serving khao soi (for some reason khao soi is not considered an evening dish). Served with flat egg noodles, coconut milk, fresh lime, pickled cabbage and chopped red onions, optional additions include thick soy sauce, fried chilli paste and fish sauce.
Khao soi is a curry broth popular throughout northern Thailand, and believed to have been introduced from Yunnan and Burma by Haw Chinese caravaneers. Perhaps because of this, and perhaps because most Haw are Muslim, it is quite unusual to find pork khao soi—generally the most common meats used are chicken or beef.<br/><br/>Visitors to Chiang Mai may best experience this culinary delight during the day at one of the city's many noodle restaurants serving khao soi (for some reason khao soi is not considered an evening dish). Served with flat egg noodles, coconut milk, fresh lime, pickled cabbage and chopped red onions, optional additions include thick soy sauce, fried chilli paste and fish sauce.
Khao soi is a curry broth popular throughout northern Thailand, and believed to have been introduced from Yunnan and Burma by Haw Chinese caravaneers. Perhaps because of this, and perhaps because most Haw are Muslim, it is quite unusual to find pork khao soi—generally the most common meats used are chicken or beef.<br/><br/>Visitors to Chiang Mai may best experience this culinary delight during the day at one of the city's many noodle restaurants serving khao soi (for some reason khao soi is not considered an evening dish). Served with flat egg noodles, coconut milk, fresh lime, pickled cabbage and chopped red onions, optional additions include thick soy sauce, fried chilli paste and fish sauce.
Wat Phra Singh or to give it its full name, Wat Phra Singh Woramahaviharn, was first constructed around 1345 by King Phayu, 5th king of the Mangrai Dynasty.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city') in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. Chiang Mai sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
Lamphun was the capital of the small but culturally rich Mon Kingdom of Haripunchai from about 750 AD to the time of its conquest by King Mangrai (the founder of Chiang Mai) in 1281.
Lamphun was the capital of the small but culturally rich Mon Kingdom of Haripunchai from about 750 AD to the time of its conquest by King Mangrai (the founder of Chiang Mai) in 1281.
Part of a jingle or folk song amiably mocking the American Dr Marion Alonzo Cheek and the British businessman Louis Leonowens for keeping a harem of local Chiang Mai women. The rhyme runs in part:<br/><br/> Dr Chitt and Missa Louis Sleeping with two girls Two nights for fifteen rupees Miss Luang is on the bed Miss On is waiting Hurry up and finish Doctor!<br/><br/> Dr Chitt and Missa Louis Sleeping with two girls Two nights for fifteen rupees Miss Kum asked for silver Miss Huan asked for cloth Miss Noja asked for an elephant Hurry up and finish Doctor!<br/><br/> The Tai Tham script is used for three living languages: Northern Thai (that is, Kham Mueang), Tai Lü and Khün. In addition, the Lanna script is also used for Lao Tham (or old Lao) and other dialect variants in Buddhist palm leaves and notebooks. The script is also known as Tham or Yuan script.
The Lan Na Kingdom effectively came into existence as an independent entity under King Mangrai the Great (r. 1259-1317), but the capital was not established at Chiang Mai ('New City') by Mangrai until 1892-96.<br/><br/> The Mangrai Dynasty ruled over an independent Lan Na Kingdom until 1558, when Chiang Mai was captured by Burma's King Bayinnaung (r. 1551-181). Chiang Mai remained a Burmese tributary state until the Lan Na Revolt (1771-1774).<br/><br/> In 1881 the former Lan Na Kingdom regained its independence in an alliance with Siam. Chao Kawila (r. 1781-1813) was the first of nine Chiang Mai Lords who ruled over the Kingdom of Chiang Mai until its last vestiges were subsumed with the Thai polity in 1939.<br/><br/> At its peak under King Tilokarat (1441-1487) Lan Na territories extended west across the Salween River and north to Kengtung in Shan State, northeast to Sipsongpanna (Xishuangbanna) in China's Yunnan Province, and east towards Luang Prabang in the Lao Kingdom of Lanchang.<br/><br/> Today the former Lan Na Kingdom is fully a part of the Kingdom of Thailand, though it retains its own distinctive language, customs, culture and cuisine. Since the end of the military government of Kriangsak Chomanan in 1980, Lan Na cultural pride and ethnic distinctiveness have made an ongoing recovery with the general support of the national government in Bangkok.
Bo Sang, near the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, is famous for its hand-made brightly colored umbrellas and parasols. Once a year, in late January, the Bo Sang Umbrella and San Kamphaeng Handicrafts Festival is held in the town.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city'), sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand. King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom.
Bo Sang, near the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, is famous for its hand-made brightly colored umbrellas and parasols. Once a year, in late January, the Bo Sang Umbrella and San Kamphaeng Handicrafts Festival is held in the town.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city'), sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand. King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom.
Northern Thailand has inherited the culinary legacy of the once powerful Lan Na Kingdom, with ties to neighbouring Burma and the Chinese province of Yunnan. One noteworthy feature is the widespread use of tomatoes in curries and other cooked dishes – elsewhere in Thailand the tomato is usually seen as a salad vegetable.<br/><br/> Distinctive dishes include <i>khao soy</i> – a succulent noodle dish introduced by Muslim caravaneers from China. Wheat noodles are served in a chicken or beef broth with an accompaniment of chopped red onions, pickled cabbage, fresh lime and soy sauce. <i>Nam phrik ong</i> – minced pork with tomatoes and chillies, almost like a Bolognese sauce. Not to be missed is <i>kaeng hang lay</i> – curried pork with ginger and peanuts, often served at weddings and other celebrations. Another favourite is the spicy Chiang Mai sausage, made with <i>naem</i>, or preserved pork. Served with a tray of peanuts, fresh ginger and chilli peppers, Northerners consider this to be an ideal <i>kap klaem</i>, or accompaniment to drinks – usually whisky and soda with plenty of ice.<br/><br/> Visitors to Chiang Mai can sample local cuisine at a northern Khantoke dinner – elegantly served on a low table, usually to the accompaniment of traditional Lan Na dancing.
Northern Thailand has inherited the culinary legacy of the once powerful Lan Na Kingdom, with ties to neighbouring Burma and the Chinese province of Yunnan. One noteworthy feature is the widespread use of tomatoes in curries and other cooked dishes – elsewhere in Thailand the tomato is usually seen as a salad vegetable.<br/><br/> Distinctive dishes include <i>khao soy</i> – a succulent noodle dish introduced by Muslim caravaneers from China. Wheat noodles are served in a chicken or beef broth with an accompaniment of chopped red onions, pickled cabbage, fresh lime and soy sauce. <i>Nam phrik ong</i> – minced pork with tomatoes and chillies, almost like a Bolognese sauce. Not to be missed is <i>kaeng hang lay</i> – curried pork with ginger and peanuts, often served at weddings and other celebrations. Another favourite is the spicy Chiang Mai sausage, made with <i>naem</i>, or preserved pork. Served with a tray of peanuts, fresh ginger and chilli peppers, Northerners consider this to be an ideal <i>kap klaem</i>, or accompaniment to drinks – usually whisky and soda with plenty of ice.<br/><br/> Visitors to Chiang Mai can sample local cuisine at a northern Khantoke dinner – elegantly served on a low table, usually to the accompaniment of traditional Lan Na dancing.
Northern Thailand has inherited the culinary legacy of the once powerful Lan Na Kingdom, with ties to neighbouring Burma and the Chinese province of Yunnan. One noteworthy feature is the widespread use of tomatoes in curries and other cooked dishes – elsewhere in Thailand the tomato is usually seen as a salad vegetable.<br/><br/> Distinctive dishes include <i>khao soy</i> – a succulent noodle dish introduced by Muslim caravaneers from China. Wheat noodles are served in a chicken or beef broth with an accompaniment of chopped red onions, pickled cabbage, fresh lime and soy sauce. <i>Nam phrik ong</i> – minced pork with tomatoes and chillies, almost like a Bolognese sauce. Not to be missed is <i>kaeng hang lay</i> – curried pork with ginger and peanuts, often served at weddings and other celebrations. Another favourite is the spicy Chiang Mai sausage, made with <i>naem</i>, or preserved pork. Served with a tray of peanuts, fresh ginger and chilli peppers, Northerners consider this to be an ideal <i>kap klaem</i>, or accompaniment to drinks – usually whisky and soda with plenty of ice.<br/><br/> Visitors to Chiang Mai can sample local cuisine at a northern Khantoke dinner – elegantly served on a low table, usually to the accompaniment of traditional Lan Na dancing.
Chiang Mai is known as 'the Rose of the North', but it really blooms into flower in February, towards the end of the cool season. Every year on the first weekend of February, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival is opened. The flower beds in public spaces all around the town are especially beautiful at this time of year. Everywhere there can be found gorgeous displays of yellow and white chrysanthemums, and the Damask Rose, a variety found only in Chiang Mai. Also, the pink and purplish Dendrobium orchids, and the yellow Daoruang.<br/><br/> The real focus of this Chiang Mai festival, however, is the public garden of Suan Buak Haad on the south-western corner of the moat. The road next to the moat all around the park is closed to traffic, and vendors of plants, Thailand flowers, Thailand orchids and garden decorations set up their stalls there.
Chiang Mai is known as 'the Rose of the North', but it really blooms into flower in February, towards the end of the cool season. Every year on the first weekend of February, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival is opened. The flower beds in public spaces all around the town are especially beautiful at this time of year. Everywhere there can be found gorgeous displays of yellow and white chrysanthemums, and the Damask Rose, a variety found only in Chiang Mai. Also, the pink and purplish Dendrobium orchids, and the yellow Daoruang.<br/><br/> The real focus of this Chiang Mai festival, however, is the public garden of Suan Buak Haad on the south-western corner of the moat. The road next to the moat all around the park is closed to traffic, and vendors of plants, Thailand flowers, Thailand orchids and garden decorations set up their stalls there.
The Mae Had Valley lies in the northern part of the greater Chiang Mai Valley. The small Mae Had River runs through the valley.<br/><br/> The people of the Mae Had Valley are overwhelmingly Khon Muang. Their whole lifestyle is a celebration of flatland, wet-rice paddy culture. Their attitudes are conservative, restrained, old-world.
Viranga was the last independent ruler of the Lawa who, according to legend, ruled over the Chiang Mai area around one thousand years ago. Oral history relates how Viranga fell in love with Chama Thewi (Chamadevi), the Mon Queen of Lamphun, who rejected his advances. Viranga tried to win the queen's affection by performing the extraordinary feat of hurling a javelin from the summit of Doi Pui to the walls of Lamphun—a distance of some thirty kilometres.<br/><br/> According to legend, Chama Thewi weakened Viranga's supernatural powers by presenting him with a cap dyed with menstrual blood, thus sapping his strength. The unsuspecting Lawa king, after two failed attempts to hurl his javelin to Lamphun, threw the weapon high in the air and allowed it to pierce his own breast as it fell to earth. He was buried on a nearby hilltop, facing his beloved's Lamphun.<br/><br/> The Mae Had Valley lies in the northern part of the greater Chiang Mai Valley. The small Mae Had River runs through the valley.<br/><br/> The people of the Mae Had Valley are overwhelmingly Khon Muang. Their whole lifestyle is a celebration of flatland, wet-rice paddy culture. Their attitudes are conservative, restrained, old-world.
The Mae Had Valley lies in the northern part of the greater Chiang Mai Valley. The small Mae Had River runs through the valley.<br/><br/> The people of the Mae Had Valley are overwhelmingly Khon Muang. Their whole lifestyle is a celebration of flatland, wet-rice paddy culture. Their attitudes are conservative, restrained, old-world.
Bo Sang, near the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, is famous for its hand-made brightly colored umbrellas and parasols. Once a year, in late January, the Bo Sang Umbrella and San Kamphaeng Handicrafts Festival is held in the town.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city'), sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand. King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom.
The Muslim population of Chiang Mai is not particularly large - according to the 1980 census it comprised a mere 2.5% of the city's overall total - but it is successful, diverse, and (at least in the main Muslim neighbourhoods) very noticeable.<br/><br/> Four main areas of Muslim settlement are readily identifiable by their mosques, halal restaurants, men sporting prayer caps and women wearing head veils. Two of these areas (Chang Pheuak and South Changklan) are predominantly Bengali, or South Asian in character, whilst two others (Baan Haw and Sanphakoi) are predominantly Yunnanese.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai, sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, and is the capital of Chiang Mai Province. It is located 700 km (435 mi) north of Bangkok, among the highest mountains in the country. The city is on the Ping river, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya river.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city') in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. The ruler was known as the Chao. The city was surrounded by a moat and a defensive wall, since nearby Burma was a constant threat.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai formally became part of Siam in 1774 by an agreement with Chao Kavila, after the Thai King Taksin helped drive out the Burmese. Chiang Mai then slowly grew in cultural, trading and economic importance to its current status as the unofficial capital of northern Thailand, second in importance only to Bangkok.
Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha temple is the sight of a revered Buddha footprint. Phra Phutthabat means 'Buddha footprint' and Tak Pha means 'the Buddha's robes' in Thai. It is believed that the Buddha once stopped here and dried his robes hence the name of the temple.
Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha temple is the sight of a revered Buddha footprint. Phra Phutthabat means 'Buddha footprint' and Tak Pha means 'the Buddha's robes' in Thai. It is believed that the Buddha once stopped here and dried his robes hence the name of the temple.
Wat Phra Singh or to give it its full name, Wat Phra Singh Woramahaviharn, was first constructed around 1345 by King Phayu, 5th king of the Mangrai Dynasty.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city') in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. Chiang Mai sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
Wat Phra Singh or to give it its full name, Wat Phra Singh Woramahaviharn, was first constructed around 1345 by King Phayu, 5th king of the Mangrai Dynasty.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city') in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. Chiang Mai sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
Wat Buak Khrok Luang, located in Ban Buak Khrok Luang Moo 1, Chiang Mai – Sankamphaeng Road, Chiang Mai, is a small and typically northern Thai Buddhist temple. It is believed to have been founded in the 15th century during the time of the independent Lan Na Kingdom (1292-1558), and was extensively restored during the reign of Chao Kaew Naowarat (r.1911-1939), the last King of Chiang Mai.<br/><br/> The temple is chiefly noteworthy for its main viharn, which is purely Lan Na in inspiration, with a four-tiered roof and elegant naga balustrade entrance. The most remarkable aspect of the viharn is its extensive mural paintings, dating from around 1835 during the reign of Chao Phuttawong (r.1826-1846), the fourth ruler of the Chiang Mai Thipchang Dynasty. The murals, which are northern Thai in style with clear elements of Shan State and Konbaung Dynasty Burmese influence, are among the best in northern Thailand. They feature the jataka stories, past lives of the Buddha, and are interspersed with vernacular scenes from everyday early 19th century northern Thai life.
Princess Dara Rasmi (August 26, 1873 – December 9, 1933), was the Princess of Chiang Mai and Siam (later Thailand) and the daughter of King Inthawichayanon and Queen Thipkraisorn Rajadewi of Chang Mai, a scion of the Chao Chet Ton Dynasty. She was one of the princess consorts of Chulalongkorn, King Rama V of Siam and gave birth to one daughter by King Chulalongkorn, Princess Vimolnaka Nabisi.<br/><br/> In 1886, she left Chiang Mai to enter the Grand Palace in Bangkok, where she was given the title Chao Chom Dara Rasami of the Chakri Dynasty. While she lived in the Grand Palace, Dara Rasami and the ladies in her entourage were ribbed and called 'Lao ladies', as well as teased that they smelled of fermented fish. Despite these difficulties, Dara Rasami and her entourage always wore Chiang Mai style textiles for their skirts (known as pha sin) with their long hair pulled up into a bun on the back of the head, in contrast to the clothing and hairstyles of the Siamese women.<br/><br/> After King Chulalongkorn died in 1910, Dara Rasmi continued to live in Dusit Palace until 1914, when she asked for permission from King Vajiravudh to return to Chiang Mai to retire. The King granted her permission, and she returned to Chiang Mai on 22 January 1914.<br/><br/> Princess Dara Rasmi continued with her royal duties for the people of Lanna. In later life, she lived in the Darabhirom Palace that King Vajiravudh built for her and her official attendants. On 30 June 1933, an old lung ailment recurred. Both Western and Thai doctors tried to cure her, but no one succeeded. Her half brother, King Chao Keo Naowarat moved her into his palace at Khum Rin Keaw for treatment, but on 9 December 1933, she died there peacefully at the age of 60.
Princess Dara Rasmi (August 26, 1873 – December 9, 1933), was the Princess of Chiang Mai and Siam (later Thailand) and the daughter of King Inthawichayanon and Queen Thipkraisorn Rajadewi of Chang Mai, a scion of the Chao Chet Ton Dynasty. She was one of the princess consorts of Chulalongkorn, King Rama V of Siam and gave birth to one daughter by King Chulalongkorn, Princess Vimolnaka Nabisi.<br/><br/> In 1886, she left Chiang Mai to enter the Grand Palace in Bangkok, where she was given the title Chao Chom Dara Rasami of the Chakri Dynasty. While she lived in the Grand Palace, Dara Rasami and the ladies in her entourage were ribbed and called 'Lao ladies', as well as teased that they smelled of fermented fish. Despite these difficulties, Dara Rasami and her entourage always wore Chiang Mai style textiles for their skirts (known as pha sin) with their long hair pulled up into a bun on the back of the head, in contrast to the clothing and hairstyles of the Siamese women.<br/><br/> After King Chulalongkorn died in 1910, Dara Rasmi continued to live in Dusit Palace until 1914, when she asked for permission from King Vajiravudh to return to Chiang Mai to retire. The King granted her permission, and she returned to Chiang Mai on 22 January 1914.<br/><br/> Princess Dara Rasmi continued with her royal duties for the people of Lanna. In later life, she lived in the Darabhirom Palace that King Vajiravudh built for her and her official attendants. On 30 June 1933, an old lung ailment recurred. Both Western and Thai doctors tried to cure her, but no one succeeded. Her half brother, King Chao Keo Naowarat moved her into his palace at Khum Rin Keaw for treatment, but on 9 December 1933, she died there peacefully at the age of 60.
Princess Dara Rasmi (August 26, 1873 – December 9, 1933), was the Princess of Chiang Mai and Siam (later Thailand) and the daughter of King Inthawichayanon and Queen Thipkraisorn Rajadewi of Chang Mai, a scion of the Chao Chet Ton Dynasty. She was one of the princess consorts of Chulalongkorn, King Rama V of Siam and gave birth to one daughter by King Chulalongkorn, Princess Vimolnaka Nabisi.<br/><br/> In 1886, she left Chiang Mai to enter the Grand Palace in Bangkok, where she was given the title Chao Chom Dara Rasami of the Chakri Dynasty. While she lived in the Grand Palace, Dara Rasami and the ladies in her entourage were ribbed and called 'Lao ladies', as well as teased that they smelled of fermented fish. Despite these difficulties, Dara Rasami and her entourage always wore Chiang Mai style textiles for their skirts (known as pha sin) with their long hair pulled up into a bun on the back of the head, in contrast to the clothing and hairstyles of the Siamese women.<br/><br/> After King Chulalongkorn died in 1910, Dara Rasmi continued to live in Dusit Palace until 1914, when she asked for permission from King Vajiravudh to return to Chiang Mai to retire. The King granted her permission, and she returned to Chiang Mai on 22 January 1914.<br/><br/> Princess Dara Rasmi continued with her royal duties for the people of Lanna. In later life, she lived in the Darabhirom Palace that King Vajiravudh built for her and her official attendants. On 30 June 1933, an old lung ailment recurred. Both Western and Thai doctors tried to cure her, but no one succeeded. Her half brother, King Chao Keo Naowarat moved her into his palace at Khum Rin Keaw for treatment, but on 9 December 1933, she died there peacefully at the age of 60.
Princess Dara Rasmi (August 26, 1873 – December 9, 1933), was the Princess of Chiang Mai and Siam (later Thailand) and the daughter of King Inthawichayanon and Queen Thipkraisorn Rajadewi of Chang Mai, a scion of the Chao Chet Ton Dynasty. She was one of the princess consorts of Chulalongkorn, King Rama V of Siam and gave birth to one daughter by King Chulalongkorn, Princess Vimolnaka Nabisi.<br/><br/> In 1886, she left Chiang Mai to enter the Grand Palace in Bangkok, where she was given the title Chao Chom Dara Rasami of the Chakri Dynasty. While she lived in the Grand Palace, Dara Rasami and the ladies in her entourage were ribbed and called 'Lao ladies', as well as teased that they smelled of fermented fish. Despite these difficulties, Dara Rasami and her entourage always wore Chiang Mai style textiles for their skirts (known as pha sin) with their long hair pulled up into a bun on the back of the head, in contrast to the clothing and hairstyles of the Siamese women.<br/><br/> After King Chulalongkorn died in 1910, Dara Rasmi continued to live in Dusit Palace until 1914, when she asked for permission from King Vajiravudh to return to Chiang Mai to retire. The King granted her permission, and she returned to Chiang Mai on 22 January 1914.<br/><br/> Princess Dara Rasmi continued with her royal duties for the people of Lanna. In later life, she lived in the Darabhirom Palace that King Vajiravudh built for her and her official attendants. On 30 June 1933, an old lung ailment recurred. Both Western and Thai doctors tried to cure her, but no one succeeded. Her half brother, King Chao Keo Naowarat moved her into his palace at Khum Rin Keaw for treatment, but on 9 December 1933, she died there peacefully at the age of 60.
The Mae Had Valley lies in the northern part of the greater Chiang Mai Valley. The small Mae Had River runs through the valley.<br/><br/> The people of the Mae Had Valley are overwhelmingly Khon Muang. Their whole lifestyle is a celebration of flatland, wet-rice paddy culture. Their attitudes are conservative, restrained, old-world.
The Mae Had Valley lies in the northern part of the greater Chiang Mai Valley. The small Mae Had River runs through the valley.<br/><br/> The people of the Mae Had Valley are overwhelmingly Khon Muang. Their whole lifestyle is a celebration of flatland, wet-rice paddy culture. Their attitudes are conservative, restrained, old-world.
Wat Buak Khrok Luang, located in Ban Buak Khrok Luang Moo 1, Chiang Mai – Sankamphaeng Road, Chiang Mai, is a small and typically northern Thai Buddhist temple. It is believed to have been founded in the 15th century during the time of the independent Lan Na Kingdom (1292-1558), and was extensively restored during the reign of Chao Kaew Naowarat (r.1911-1939), the last King of Chiang Mai.<br/><br/> The temple is chiefly noteworthy for its main viharn, which is purely Lan Na in inspiration, with a four-tiered roof and elegant naga balustrade entrance. The most remarkable aspect of the viharn is its extensive mural paintings, dating from around 1835 during the reign of Chao Phuttawong (r.1826-1846), the fourth ruler of the Chiang Mai Thipchang Dynasty. The murals, which are northern Thai in style with clear elements of Shan State and Konbaung Dynasty Burmese influence, are among the best in northern Thailand. They feature the jataka stories, past lives of the Buddha, and are interspersed with vernacular scenes from everyday early 19th century northern Thai life.
This painting, by an unknown Burmese artist, is from a watercolour sketch album dating from c.1897 that includes illustrations of Buddhist monks, the Buddha, monasteries, cremations and domestic scenes.<br/><br/> Legend attributes the first Buddhist doctrine in Burma to 228 BCE when Sohn Uttar Sthavira, one of the royal monks to Emperor Ashoka the Great of India, came to the country with other monks and sacred texts. However, the era of Buddhism truly began in the 11th century after King Anawrahta of Pagan (Bagan) was converted to Theravada Buddhism. Today, 89% of the population of Burma is Theravada Buddhist.
The history of Northern Thailand is dominated by the Lanna Kingdom, which was founded in 1259 by King Mangrai and remained an independent force until the 16th century. Much of Northern Thailand is mountainous.
The history of Northern Thailand is dominated by the Lanna Kingdom, which was founded in 1259 by King Mangrai and remained an independent force until the 16th century. Much of Northern Thailand is mountainous.
Wat Phra Singh or to give it its full name, Wat Phra Singh Woramahaviharn, was first constructed around 1345 by King Phayu, 5th king of the Mangrai Dynasty.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city') in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. Chiang Mai sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
Northern Thai or Kham Mueang is the language of the Khon Muang people of northern Thailand and is closely related to Thai and Lao. Spoken by approximately six million people.
This painting, by an unknown Burmese artist, is from a watercolour sketch album dating from c.1897 that includes illustrations of Buddhist monks, the Buddha, monasteries, cremations and domestic scenes.<br/><br/> Legend attributes the first Buddhist doctrine in Burma to 228 BCE when Sohn Uttar Sthavira, one of the royal monks to Emperor Ashoka the Great of India, came to the country with other monks and sacred texts. However, the era of Buddhism truly began in the 11th century after King Anawrahta of Pagan (Bagan) was converted to Theravada Buddhism. Today, 89% of the population of Burma is Theravada Buddhist.
The sueng is part of a northern Thai traditional ensemble called the salo-so (saw)-sueng ensemble, along with the salo (3-string spike fiddle) and pi so (free reed pipe). It is a plucked fretted lute from the northern region of Thailand. The instrument is made from hardwood and its strings (numbering either four or six) are most often made of steel wire.
Princess Dara Rasmi (August 26, 1873 – December 9, 1933), was the Princess of Chiang Mai and Siam (later Thailand) and the daughter of King Inthawichayanon and Queen Thipkraisorn Rajadewi of Chang Mai, a scion of the Chao Chet Ton Dynasty. She was one of the princess consorts of Chulalongkorn, King Rama V of Siam and gave birth to one daughter by King Chulalongkorn, Princess Vimolnaka Nabisi.<br/><br/> In 1886, she left Chiang Mai to enter the Grand Palace in Bangkok, where she was given the title Chao Chom Dara Rasami of the Chakri Dynasty. While she lived in the Grand Palace, Dara Rasami and the ladies in her entourage were ribbed and called 'Lao ladies', as well as teased that they smelled of fermented fish. Despite these difficulties, Dara Rasami and her entourage always wore Chiang Mai style textiles for their skirts (known as pha sin) with their long hair pulled up into a bun on the back of the head, in contrast to the clothing and hairstyles of the Siamese women.<br/><br/> After King Chulalongkorn died in 1910, Dara Rasmi continued to live in Dusit Palace until 1914, when she asked for permission from King Vajiravudh to return to Chiang Mai to retire. The King granted her permission, and she returned to Chiang Mai on 22 January 1914.<br/><br/> Princess Dara Rasmi continued with her royal duties for the people of Lanna. In later life, she lived in the Darabhirom Palace that King Vajiravudh built for her and her official attendants. On 30 June 1933, an old lung ailment recurred. Both Western and Thai doctors tried to cure her, but no one succeeded. Her half brother, King Chao Keo Naowarat moved her into his palace at Khum Rin Keaw for treatment, but on 9 December 1933, she died there peacefully at the age of 60.
Princess Dara Rasmi (August 26, 1873 – December 9, 1933), was the Princess of Chiang Mai and Siam (later Thailand) and the daughter of King Inthawichayanon and Queen Thipkraisorn Rajadewi of Chang Mai, a scion of the Chao Chet Ton Dynasty. She was one of the princess consorts of Chulalongkorn, King Rama V of Siam and gave birth to one daughter by King Chulalongkorn, Princess Vimolnaka Nabisi.<br/><br/> In 1886, she left Chiang Mai to enter the Grand Palace in Bangkok, where she was given the title Chao Chom Dara Rasami of the Chakri Dynasty. While she lived in the Grand Palace, Dara Rasami and the ladies in her entourage were ribbed and called 'Lao ladies', as well as teased that they smelled of fermented fish. Despite these difficulties, Dara Rasami and her entourage always wore Chiang Mai style textiles for their skirts (known as pha sin) with their long hair pulled up into a bun on the back of the head, in contrast to the clothing and hairstyles of the Siamese women.<br/><br/> After King Chulalongkorn died in 1910, Dara Rasmi continued to live in Dusit Palace until 1914, when she asked for permission from King Vajiravudh to return to Chiang Mai to retire. The King granted her permission, and she returned to Chiang Mai on 22 January 1914.<br/><br/> Princess Dara Rasmi continued with her royal duties for the people of Lanna. In later life, she lived in the Darabhirom Palace that King Vajiravudh built for her and her official attendants. On 30 June 1933, an old lung ailment recurred. Both Western and Thai doctors tried to cure her, but no one succeeded. Her half brother, King Chao Keo Naowarat moved her into his palace at Khum Rin Keaw for treatment, but on 9 December 1933, she died there peacefully at the age of 60.
Chiang Mai, Thailand’s ‘Rose of the North’, is the country’s second city and a popular tourist destination due primarily to its mountainous scenery, colourful ethnic hilltibes and their handicrafts.<br/><br/> Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai as the capital of his Lanna kingdom, Chiang Mai was later overrun by Burmese invaders in 1767. The city was then left abandoned between 1776 and 1791.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai formally became part of Siam in 1774 by an agreement with local prince Chao Kavila, after the Siamese King Taksin helped drive out the Burmese. Chiang Mai then slowly grew in cultural, trading and economic importance.
Chiang Mai, Thailand’s ‘Rose of the North’, is the country’s second city and a popular tourist destination due primarily to its mountainous scenery, colourful ethnic hilltibes and their handicrafts.<br/><br/> Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai as the capital of his Lanna kingdom, Chiang Mai was later overrun by Burmese invaders in 1767. The city was then left abandoned between 1776 and 1791.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai formally became part of Siam in 1774 by an agreement with local prince Chao Kavila, after the Siamese King Taksin helped drive out the Burmese. Chiang Mai then slowly grew in cultural, trading and economic importance.
Wat Pa Daet (วัดป่าà¹à¸”ด), the name – ‘sunlit woodland’ – indicates this was formerly a forest temple. A walled enclosure contains a viharn, sala and ho trai or library, while just outside stands an ubosot in traditional northern style, surrounded by a narrow moat.<br/><br/> The viharn dates from 1877 and was painstakingly restored in the mid-1980s. Decorated in black and gold, the three-tiered roof sweeps low in typical Lan Na style, with elaborate winged gables supporting flaring naga. The steps leading to the portico are guarded by Burmese-style chinthe lions and naga-makara balustrades, with the chinthe emerging from the makara mouths, an unusual synthesis found elsewhere in the Mae Chaem Valley as well as at the ho trai of Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai.<br/><br/> Within the viharn, after passing beneath gilded eyebrow pelmets, are a series of relatively well-preserved late 19th century murals, some of which appear to have been restored, while others are fading almost completely away due perhaps to salinity in the plaster. Of particular interest are panels showing northern Thai women with their long tresses, quite different to Bangkok fashions of the time, and a Buddha birth-scene, northern Thai style, with women crowding around Gautama’s mother as she gives birth standing upright, holding on to the branches of a tree.<br/><br/> Tucked away in a narrow valley, Mae Chaem (à¹à¸¡à¹ˆà¹à¸ˆà¹ˆà¸¡) must rank as one of the least accessible corners of Chiang Mai. Located on the westernmost frontier of the province, it is isolated from the main Chiang Mai valley by the East Thanon Thongchai Range dominated by Doi Inthanon (ดอยอินทนนท์; at 2,565m Thailand’s highest mountain), and from neighbouring Mae Hong Son province to the west by the Central Thanon Thongchai Range, including Doi Khun Bong (ดอยขุนบง; 1,772m).
Wat Pa Daet (วัดป่าà¹à¸”ด), the name – ‘sunlit woodland’ – indicates this was formerly a forest temple. A walled enclosure contains a viharn, sala and ho trai or library, while just outside stands an ubosot in traditional northern style, surrounded by a narrow moat.<br/><br/> The viharn dates from 1877 and was painstakingly restored in the mid-1980s. Decorated in black and gold, the three-tiered roof sweeps low in typical Lan Na style, with elaborate winged gables supporting flaring naga. The steps leading to the portico are guarded by Burmese-style chinthe lions and naga-makara balustrades, with the chinthe emerging from the makara mouths, an unusual synthesis found elsewhere in the Mae Chaem Valley as well as at the ho trai of Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai.<br/><br/> Within the viharn, after passing beneath gilded eyebrow pelmets, are a series of relatively well-preserved late 19th century murals, some of which appear to have been restored, while others are fading almost completely away due perhaps to salinity in the plaster. Of particular interest are panels showing northern Thai women with their long tresses, quite different to Bangkok fashions of the time, and a Buddha birth-scene, northern Thai style, with women crowding around Gautama’s mother as she gives birth standing upright, holding on to the branches of a tree.<br/><br/> Tucked away in a narrow valley, Mae Chaem (à¹à¸¡à¹ˆà¹à¸ˆà¹ˆà¸¡) must rank as one of the least accessible corners of Chiang Mai. Located on the westernmost frontier of the province, it is isolated from the main Chiang Mai valley by the East Thanon Thongchai Range dominated by Doi Inthanon (ดอยอินทนนท์; at 2,565m Thailand’s highest mountain), and from neighbouring Mae Hong Son province to the west by the Central Thanon Thongchai Range, including Doi Khun Bong (ดอยขุนบง; 1,772m).
Wat Pa Daet (วัดป่าà¹à¸”ด), the name – ‘sunlit woodland’ – indicates this was formerly a forest temple. A walled enclosure contains a viharn, sala and ho trai or library, while just outside stands an ubosot in traditional northern style, surrounded by a narrow moat.<br/><br/> The viharn dates from 1877 and was painstakingly restored in the mid-1980s. Decorated in black and gold, the three-tiered roof sweeps low in typical Lan Na style, with elaborate winged gables supporting flaring naga. The steps leading to the portico are guarded by Burmese-style chinthe lions and naga-makara balustrades, with the chinthe emerging from the makara mouths, an unusual synthesis found elsewhere in the Mae Chaem Valley as well as at the ho trai of Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai.<br/><br/> Within the viharn, after passing beneath gilded eyebrow pelmets, are a series of relatively well-preserved late 19th century murals, some of which appear to have been restored, while others are fading almost completely away due perhaps to salinity in the plaster. Of particular interest are panels showing northern Thai women with their long tresses, quite different to Bangkok fashions of the time, and a Buddha birth-scene, northern Thai style, with women crowding around Gautama’s mother as she gives birth standing upright, holding on to the branches of a tree.<br/><br/> Tucked away in a narrow valley, Mae Chaem (à¹à¸¡à¹ˆà¹à¸ˆà¹ˆà¸¡) must rank as one of the least accessible corners of Chiang Mai. Located on the westernmost frontier of the province, it is isolated from the main Chiang Mai valley by the East Thanon Thongchai Range dominated by Doi Inthanon (ดอยอินทนนท์; at 2,565m Thailand’s highest mountain), and from neighbouring Mae Hong Son province to the west by the Central Thanon Thongchai Range, including Doi Khun Bong (ดอยขุนบง; 1,772m).
Wat Pa Daet (วัดป่าà¹à¸”ด), the name – ‘sunlit woodland’ – indicates this was formerly a forest temple. A walled enclosure contains a viharn, sala and ho trai or library, while just outside stands an ubosot in traditional northern style, surrounded by a narrow moat.<br/><br/> The viharn dates from 1877 and was painstakingly restored in the mid-1980s. Decorated in black and gold, the three-tiered roof sweeps low in typical Lan Na style, with elaborate winged gables supporting flaring naga. The steps leading to the portico are guarded by Burmese-style chinthe lions and naga-makara balustrades, with the chinthe emerging from the makara mouths, an unusual synthesis found elsewhere in the Mae Chaem Valley as well as at the ho trai of Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai.<br/><br/> Within the viharn, after passing beneath gilded eyebrow pelmets, are a series of relatively well-preserved late 19th century murals, some of which appear to have been restored, while others are fading almost completely away due perhaps to salinity in the plaster. Of particular interest are panels showing northern Thai women with their long tresses, quite different to Bangkok fashions of the time, and a Buddha birth-scene, northern Thai style, with women crowding around Gautama’s mother as she gives birth standing upright, holding on to the branches of a tree.<br/><br/> Tucked away in a narrow valley, Mae Chaem (à¹à¸¡à¹ˆà¹à¸ˆà¹ˆà¸¡) must rank as one of the least accessible corners of Chiang Mai. Located on the westernmost frontier of the province, it is isolated from the main Chiang Mai valley by the East Thanon Thongchai Range dominated by Doi Inthanon (ดอยอินทนนท์; at 2,565m Thailand’s highest mountain), and from neighbouring Mae Hong Son province to the west by the Central Thanon Thongchai Range, including Doi Khun Bong (ดอยขุนบง; 1,772m).
Chiang Mai is known as 'the Rose of the North', but it really blooms into flower in February, towards the end of the cool season. Every year on the first weekend of February, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival is opened. The flower beds in public spaces all around the town are especially beautiful at this time of year. Everywhere there can be found gorgeous displays of yellow and white chrysanthemums, and the Damask Rose, a variety found only in Chiang Mai. Also, the pink and purplish Dendrobium orchids, and the yellow Daoruang.<br/><br/> The real focus of this Chiang Mai festival, however, is the public garden of Suan Buak Haad on the south-western corner of the moat. The road next to the moat all around the park is closed to traffic, and vendors of plants, Thailand flowers, Thailand orchids and garden decorations set up their stalls there.
Chiang Mai is known as 'the Rose of the North', but it really blooms into flower in February, towards the end of the cool season. Every year on the first weekend of February, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival is opened. The flower beds in public spaces all around the town are especially beautiful at this time of year. Everywhere there can be found gorgeous displays of yellow and white chrysanthemums, and the Damask Rose, a variety found only in Chiang Mai. Also, the pink and purplish Dendrobium orchids, and the yellow Daoruang.<br/><br/> The real focus of this Chiang Mai festival, however, is the public garden of Suan Buak Haad on the south-western corner of the moat. The road next to the moat all around the park is closed to traffic, and vendors of plants, Thailand flowers, Thailand orchids and garden decorations set up their stalls there.
Chiang Mai is known as 'the Rose of the North', but it really blooms into flower in February, towards the end of the cool season. Every year on the first weekend of February, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival is opened. The flower beds in public spaces all around the town are especially beautiful at this time of year. Everywhere there can be found gorgeous displays of yellow and white chrysanthemums, and the Damask Rose, a variety found only in Chiang Mai. Also, the pink and purplish Dendrobium orchids, and the yellow Daoruang.<br/><br/> The real focus of this Chiang Mai festival, however, is the public garden of Suan Buak Haad on the south-western corner of the moat. The road next to the moat all around the park is closed to traffic, and vendors of plants, Thailand flowers, Thailand orchids and garden decorations set up their stalls there.
Chiang Mai is known as 'the Rose of the North', but it really blooms into flower in February, towards the end of the cool season. Every year on the first weekend of February, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival is opened. The flower beds in public spaces all around the town are especially beautiful at this time of year. Everywhere there can be found gorgeous displays of yellow and white chrysanthemums, and the Damask Rose, a variety found only in Chiang Mai. Also, the pink and purplish Dendrobium orchids, and the yellow Daoruang.<br/><br/> The real focus of this Chiang Mai festival, however, is the public garden of Suan Buak Haad on the south-western corner of the moat. The road next to the moat all around the park is closed to traffic, and vendors of plants, Thailand flowers, Thailand orchids and garden decorations set up their stalls there.
Chiang Mai is known as 'the Rose of the North', but it really blooms into flower in February, towards the end of the cool season. Every year on the first weekend of February, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival is opened. The flower beds in public spaces all around the town are especially beautiful at this time of year. Everywhere there can be found gorgeous displays of yellow and white chrysanthemums, and the Damask Rose, a variety found only in Chiang Mai. Also, the pink and purplish Dendrobium orchids, and the yellow Daoruang.<br/><br/> The real focus of this Chiang Mai festival, however, is the public garden of Suan Buak Haad on the south-western corner of the moat. The road next to the moat all around the park is closed to traffic, and vendors of plants, Thailand flowers, Thailand orchids and garden decorations set up their stalls there.
Chiang Mai is known as 'the Rose of the North', but it really blooms into flower in February, towards the end of the cool season. Every year on the first weekend of February, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival is opened. The flower beds in public spaces all around the town are especially beautiful at this time of year. Everywhere there can be found gorgeous displays of yellow and white chrysanthemums, and the Damask Rose, a variety found only in Chiang Mai. Also, the pink and purplish Dendrobium orchids, and the yellow Daoruang.<br/><br/> The real focus of this Chiang Mai festival, however, is the public garden of Suan Buak Haad on the south-western corner of the moat. The road next to the moat all around the park is closed to traffic, and vendors of plants, Thailand flowers, Thailand orchids and garden decorations set up their stalls there.
Known to the central Siamese as the Lao States at the turn of the 20th century, the northern region of what is now Thailand was an independent region known as the Lanna kingdom. The main city, Chiang Mai, was built in 1296 by King Mengrai. The city was abandoned in 1776—91 due to Burmese invasions, but became an acknowledged part of Siam around the same time. The north was linked to Bangkok only by river, a journey which could take some six months, until in 1922, a railway was completed which connected Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Wat Ton Kwen (วัด ต้น เà¸à¸§à¹‹à¸™), more formally known as Wat Inthrawat (วัด อินทราวาส), means ‘Temple of Sugar Palms’ in kham muang or Northern Thai, and sure enough the rustic temple, set in a small village amid verdant rice paddies, is surrounded by tall and elegant sugar palms.<br/><br/> Built at the start of the reign of Chao Kawilorot (1856-70) in 1856, Wat Ton Kwen is among the finest and purest examples surviving of traditional 19th century wooden Lan Na temple architecture. No doubt because of its small size and relative isolation, it has been spared the ‘improvements’ and other indignities suffered not just by most of its contemporary structures, but also by much older Lan Na religious buildings.<br/><br/> The most distinctive features at Wat Ton Kwen are the typically Lan Na viharn or gabled assembly hall, and an unusual cruciform, four-porch mondop or open-sided pavilion.
The sueng is a plucked fretted lute from the northern region of Thailand. The instrument is made from hardwood and its strings (numbering either four or six) are most often made of steel wire. The saw is a Thai bowed string instrument, the body is often made from a coconut.