Chiang Mai is Thailand's second largest city, capital of Chiang Mai Province, and the cultural heart of the mountainous northern region and former kingdom known as Lanna ("A Million Rice-fields"). The area inside and immediately outside the old city walls is a paradise for temple (wat) lovers as there is a large number of historically significant temples easily accessible on foot or by bicycle. There are also several temples where foreigners can practise vipassana (insight) meditation.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a major pilgrimage temple 15km outside the city. Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh are the most well-known temples inside the city walls.