After Doi Suthep and urban area, we will fly over the 700th anniversary stadium. The stadium was complete in 1995, marking the 700th anniversay of the founding of Chiang Mai city since 1296.
The stadium was inaugurated a year before the city hosted the 18th South East Asian Games.

This stadium has a capacity of 25,000 with more than 4,500 covered seats, athletics tracks and sports complex. The complex is of international standard and fully equipped with all sports grounds and facilities. It was the venue of the 18th SEA GAMES in 1995 and some events of the 13th Asian GAMES, Bangkok, 1998.

Located in spacious, lush, natural surroundings at the foot of Doi Suthep Mountain, with refreshing climate,
the complex is becoming a favorite retreat for all local and visiting nature-lovers, exercise enthusiasts and serious sportsmen.

The Winding Mae Ping River flows through the city of Chiang Mai and provides the surrounding countryside with irrigation for rice paddies, gardens and crops. To locals, Mae Ping is known as the "Lifeline of the province". It is 569 Km long, and originates from mountains near Chiang Dao, the northernmost past of Chiang Mai. it flows through Chiang Mai and the city has been carefully built up along the river following Thai tradition.

From Chiang Mai, Mae Ping flows further southward and gradually windens as it passes through the ancient, northern town of Lamphun, then to Tak and Khamphangphet, It ends in Nakon Sawan, where it combines with three other rivers into Thailand's mainstream the Chao Phraya.

For over 700 years the Mae Ping River has been a major source of water supply for Chiang Mai. Historically, the Mae Ping provided the people water for household usage, irrigation, food supply and main transportation routes. At the turn of the century, it was even estirmated that more than a thousand boats per day moved between Chiang Mai and Tak. The number of boats has diminished greatly over the last century, since the river itself has become shallower and less swift than before. The river, however, still plays a vital role for thousands of Thais who live its banks.

The highlight of this sight seeing flight is Thailand's biggest limestone mountain, Doi Chiang Dao. Geographically, the area is a complex of mountains and fertile forest, where a National wildlife protection area was setup. The national park, covering totally about 1,123 square kilometers, or 702,085 rai, was established in November, 2000, to protect various species, sush as goral, wild boar, barking dear, bantengm guar, porcupine, langur, palm civet, squirrel, chipmunk plus many kinds of rare birds and reptiles.

By road, Chiang Dao is Located 70 Kilometres north of Chiang Mai on the way to Fang district. The top of Thailand's third highest peak is usually shrouded in clouds, and it is home to a number of hilltribe
villages, including Lisu, Lahu and Karen settlements.

The people of Chiang Dao are known as phi pop or spirit people. Taking advantage of the superstitions prevalent in the country, a cunning law giver enacted that all such people must live together in locallities set apart for them. In border lands theres are numerous such place which have to be guarded by the local police.

Scenery araound Chiang Dao peak is remarkable. The flight will take you to areas which are impossible to visit otherwise.

On the East road from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is the charming country village of Doi Saket.
Set in a rich, green vally with natural irrigation from national dam and water projects, Doi Saket
is one of the most beautiful settings in the Chiang Mai area, Such tranquil surroundings, together
with a lively and diverse microcosm, provide the authentic natural environment.

On Doi Saket hillside, there are vast opportunities awaiting visiting and local artists to exchange
ideas and share experiences through the process of creating artworks, developing conceptual projects, as well as participating in workshops.

Another beautiful attractive setting you see from above is the area of San Kam Peang district. This particular area is Chiang Mai's handicraft, art and cultural center, where many artists, craftsmen, artisans live.

The district is located 13 Kilometers east of Chiang Mai and famous for silk and a cotton weaving. All are of high quality. Factories and souvenir shops selling woodcarving, silverware, earth ware, lacquer ware and cotton fabrics are located along the way from Chiang Mai to San Kampheang. Also located in San Kam Peang is Bo Sang village, the famous place for northern hand-made umbrellas.

The sightseeing ends with a memory of beautiful surroundings, combined with understanding of why Chiang Mai is so adored by all visitors. This Northern capital is so rich in nature, culture and hospitality that it will keep its never-ending charm forever.

SGA is pround to be part of your memorable journey on this occasion

PRATT & WITHNEY
PT6a-114a
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