Chiang Mai is surrounded by a giant ring road, the Superhighway. Within this cordon, the city is split into two main parts: the old town, set within a 1.5-sq-km (0.6-square-miles) moat and the last remnants of the original city walls, is home to most of the city's famous and fascinating traditional wats (temples) and other religious sights.

Between the moat and the Ping River to the east lies the new town, which is home to most of Chiang Mai's shops, business and banks. Most guesthouses, hotels and restaurants are situated between the two districts, around the landmark Tha Pae Gate, which stands in the middle of the East Moat.

TAT Information office
105/1 Thanon Chiang Mai-Lamphun
Tel: (053) 248 604.

The tourist office is on the east bank of the river, south of Nawarat Bridge. Free maps and information brochures are available from the English-speaking staff.

Good information about what is happening in the city as well as articles on local events and culture can be gleaned from several free local magazines, including Citylife (website: www.chiangmainews.com) and Welcome to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai (website: www.chiangmai-chiangrai.com), which features extensive hotel and business listings. These magazines are distributed free at money exchanges, cafés and in hotel lobbies. Additional information about the city and region can be found online at One Stop Chiang Mai (website: www.1stopchiangmai.com).