Chiang Mai

Circling the stupa

We were fortunate to be able to share a car hired by a German couple , Wiebke and Fins to go up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthup 16kn west of the city.  As it was a holiday weekend (King’s birthday) the wat was very crowded with pilgrims doing three circuits of the central stupa praying for good fortune in the coming year. Unfortunately there was smoke haze over the city so the view was not too good.

Further up the hill at the Phra Tamnak Phu Phing palace we were able to visit the gardens.  This is a winter residence for the royal  family although one might have expected it to be a summer one to escape from the heat of Bangkok.



Night market set-up



 The Sunday night market takes over two intersecting streets in the centre of the walled city and is impressive for its size and speed of setting up.
The OMCTG had selected only 4 wats to visit, of which 3 were open to visitors.  In one, chairs were out and there was a service going on – probably prayers for the King.

Visits to “factories” making umbrellas, silk products, lacquerware and leatherware comprised a rapid tour of a workshop area followed by the showroom.  Most of the goods are, of course, made elsewhere.  A highlight was an Indian salesman trying to convince Susan that a pashmina clearly labelled “viscose/polyester” was made from the cheaper wool from the belly of the goat.  The showroom that was impressive was the one selling solid teak and rosewood furniture at very attractive prices that included shipping to UK.

Our hotel ,Villa San Pee Seua, was some way outside town across the river and situated beside it.  Scheduled transport was laid on twice daily into town and on a couple of occasions on request.  On alternate days the evening transport is by boat. It was a very friendly place.