Chiang Mai Attractions

Chiang Mai Zoo
Set in a pleasant 15-hectare (36-acre) park at the foot of Doi Suthep Mountain, this impressive gathering of more than 7,000 birds and animals began as a collection of missionary family pets. The conditions for the animals are reasonable and varied. In addition to the usual larger mammals (elephants, giraffes, etc), the zoo is currently home to two giant pandas, on loan from China until 2013. Feeding times for all the animals are clearly posted. A children's zoo, aviary and freshwater aquarium add extra interest.

Thanon Huai Kaeo
Tel: (053) 222 479.

Wat Umong
This charming park, which includes a lake filled with carp, features a chedi that was built in the 1830s for a talented clairvoyant but troubled monk who was prone to wandering off into the forest to meditate. Tunnels beneath the chedi are decorated with paintings of flowers, animals and birds to simulate the monk's preferred habitat, whilst a series of ornate nagas (mythical serpents) guard the staircase that ascends the overgrown chedi itself and a platform, upon which stands a grisly statue of the fasting Buddha, all ribs and veins.

Soi Wat Umong
Free admission.