One of the 300 hundred wats, or Buddhist temples, in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Chiang Mai was founded in 1296 by King Mengrai and was the capital of the Lanna Kingdom in Northern Thailand. Surrounded by a moat and fortified with walls, the city defended against Burmese forays into the kingdom.

The quiet provincial city is now famous for its wats, handicrafts, jungle treks, and elephant riding. After enjoying hectic Bangkok, Chiang Mai is a great place to relax.