Chiang
Mai
Information
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Location
Chiang Mai is located between latitude 17° N and 21° N with
Myanmar as its northern neighbour. It is bordered by Lamphun and Tak on
the south, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lamphun on the east and Mae Hong Son
on the west. Situated at about 300 m. above sea level, it is 696 km. away
from Bangkok by road and about one hour by air.
Area
With a total area of 20,107 sq. km., Chiang Mai is the second largest
province of Thailand.
Climate
There are three seasons in a year -- the rainy season from June to
October, the hot season from March to May, and the cool season from November
to February. Generally, Chiang Mai is cool and pleasant for the most parts
of the year. The coolest months are December and January. The temperature
throughout the year varies between 14° - 30° C, while the yearly
average temperature is 26° C.
Topography
About 69% of the area of Chiang Mai consists of mountains covered
with forests. Mostly located in the north, these mountains form the sources
of several rivers and streams which provide the water necessary to Chiang
Mai's agriculture. The largest and most important river is the Ping, flowing
along for 540 km. from north to south. The highest mountain peak is Doi
Inthanon, at 2,575 m. above sea level.
Population
1,664,399 (end Dec 2007) with 817,524 males and 846,875 females. About
10% of the population are hilltribe people living in approximately 1,000
villages in the mountainous districts of Chiang Mai. Six major tribal
groups are Karen, Lahu, Lisu, Akha, Yao and Meo.
**Note** The total population includes only permanent residents.
Administration
The provincial administration of Chiang Mai has jurisdiction over 22 counties
(amphoes) as follows: Muang, Chiang Dao, Doi Saket, Fang, Hot, Mae Chaem,
Mae Taeng, Phrao, San Kamphaeng, San Sai, Wiang Haeng, Chom Thong, Doi
Tao, Hang Dong, Mae Ai, Mae Rim, Omkoi, Samoeng, San Pa Tong, Saraphi,
Chai Prakan and Mae Wang.
Languages
Standard Thai is used as the official language, but the northern dialect
is more widely spoken among the local people. English is understood in
business circles and tourist areas.
Products
The most important products are silk, silverware, woodcarvings, lacquerware,
ceramics, tobacco and fruits.
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