North
Thailand / The Region
Photo: Chedis at Chiang Dao, North Thailand
Bordered by
Burma and Laos, characterized by forested mountains
(lower extremities of the Himalayas range) and fertile river
valleys, northern Thailand encompasses part of the fabled
Golden Triangle.
The northern
city of Sukhothai is commonly regarded as the cradle of
Thai civilization in Indochina. In 1238, Sukhothai which had formerly
been under Khmer rule gained its independence and rapidly
expanded over a territory considerably larger than present day
Thailand.
As northern
Thailand is rich in attractions for different tastes, a
number of places, including the regions center, Chiang Mai, are
among the country's most preferred tourist destinations. As the
Tourist Authority of Thailand has put it, "diverse elements, including
crisp mountain scenery, exotic hill tribes, forests worked by
elephants, colorful festivals, invigorating cool season weather,
ancient cities, exquisite northern Thai and Burmese-style temples,
and friendly people contribute to northern Thailand's enduring
charm."