ften referred to as the ose of the North, Chiang Mai is the economic and cultural centre of Northern Thailand and the focus of tourism within the region. Located about 700 kilometres from Bangkok, it is one of Thailands better known and most visited provinces. riginally the capital of the Lanna Thai kingdom created by King Mengrai in 1296, the province has a played a maor part in the development of the country. Situated on the Mae Ping iver and around 310 metres above sea level, Chiang Mai is one of the kingdoms most beautiful provinces, featuring mountain ranges and hills amidst lush greenery and ungle. Climate conditions in the area can create swirls of mist and fog in winter an unusual sight in a tropical country. The provinces numerous national parks are extremely fertile, have an abundance of flowers, and support a broad range of wildlife (the area is particularly associated with elephants). The province is also famed as being a home to numerous tribal peoples and visits to tribal villages are a key component of the areas tourism. Some of the main attractions in the area include at Phra That Doi Suthep and Doi Intanon Thailands biggest mountain.