Chiang Mai Zoo Welcomes Newborn Panda

Thousands have flocked since 28 May 2009 to see Chiang Mai Zoo's new arrival "Lin Ping", a female panda and the first to be born in Thailand. Previously the only countries to have celebrated a successful panda birth are China, Japan, and the United States. The mother, Lin Hui and Chuang Chuang are on loan from China and will be returned along with the baby "Lin Ping" in 2013.

Known by the locals as the "lifeline of the Province", the Mae Ping River is 569 km long, with its source in the mountains near Chiang Dao, which is in the northern-most part of Chiang Mai Province. Flowing southward, it creates a lovely rich valley that leads to the northern edges of Chiang Mai. As it travels southward through Chiang Mai, it is apparent how the city was carefully built and developed along the river in the past 700 years.

The Night Market (or Night Bazaar) is second only to the Sunday Walking Market for inexpensive Thai products. The Night Market opens around 5PM every evening and begins to close down at 11PM. Strolling through the market you'll find thousands of stalls selling everything from Thai handicrafts to suitcases, clothing, jewelry and shoes.

Bo Sang Umbrella Village, Chiang Mai reflects the true culture and tradition of Thailand. Over 200 years, people living in the small village of Bo Sang have been earning their livelihood from the umbrella trade, including silk and cotton umbrellas and paper parasols. At the village, visitors can watch the umbrellas being made and choose one from the numerous gorgeous colorful designs.