When was Chiang Mai established and by whom?
King Mangrai established the city of Chiang Mai in 1296 on a site that local Lawa people called Wiang Nopburi. This new capital replaced Chiang Rai as the seat of power for the Lan Na kingdom.
Questions about Chiang Mai
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What is the population and area of Chiang Mai municipality in 2023?
The official municipality covers only 40.2 square kilometers yet holds a population of approximately 127,000 residents as of 2023. This municipal boundary has not changed since its last enlargement on the 5th of April 1983.
How much did the Digital Economy Promotion Agency invest to develop Chiang Mai into a smart city?
In February 2017, the Digital Economy Promotion Agency announced an investment of 36.5 million baht to develop Chiang Mai into an innovation-driven smart city. Prosoft Comtech spent 300 million baht building Oon IT Valley on a 90 rai plot for tech startups and software programmers.
Why does air pollution occur in Chiang Mai between December and April?
Air pollution primarily occurs every year between December and April trapping forest fire smoke from mountains along the Thai-Myanmar border. Low-pressure areas from China trap smoke causing respiratory problems among city residents as noted by Dr. Jakapan Wongburanawatt speaking at a conference in 1996.
When do major festivals like Loi Krathong and Songkran take place in Chiang Mai?
Loi Krathong occurs during the full moon of the twelfth month of the traditional Thai lunar calendar, usually falling in November. Songkran takes place in mid-April to celebrate the traditional Thai New Year featuring an indiscriminate citywide water fight alongside parades and Miss Songkran beauty competitions.