Chiang Mai, Thailand 26th January 2023

After Jaipur, we flew to Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, via a short layover in Bangkok.  This is our third time in Chiang Mai so as you may have guessed, it's a place we really love.  Also, because we know it well there's no need for us to rush around exploring; we came here for eight days of rest and recuperation after the madness of India and before we start two weeks volunteering work in Sumatra.  We've rented a lovely apartment near Thapae Gate so we're close to everything we need.  And directly opposite a laundry so we have all clean clothes - a rarity!  We had to pay a visit to the local Decathlon store to replace Sue's travel bag which had completely worn through.

We visited Doi Suthep temple yesterday which is about nine miles outside of Chiang Mai and all uphill at an elevation of over 1000 metres.  It's one of the most sacred temples in Thailand and draws a large number of visitors.  After climbing over 300 stairs, there should be great views over the city but unfortunately it was a bit hazy yesterday.  At the top are pagodas, bells, shrines and statues with a central gold plated chedi which is the holiest monument on the site, rumoured to contain Buddha's shoulder bone.  The stalls and shops around the temple sell all sorts of Buddhist paraphernalia which gave Sue the opportunity to purchase some 'temple bells' (wind chimes) for the garden back home.

Eating in Chiang Mai is an absolute delight with a huge range of vegetarian options; the other evening, after visiting the night bazaar, we chose to dine at the street food market on tempeh burgers, salad and crackers from a vegan stall.  And then a tub of macadamia and white chocolate ice cream!