Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai (เชียงใหม่, "New City" in Thai) is the largest city, and the capital of Chiang Mai Province, located on the Ping River, northern Thailand. It was founded in 1296 and is considered by many to be the cultural capital of the country. The residents speak Northern Thai. English, Japanese, and Chinese are mainly used for tourism or business. Chiang Mai is home to the Northern Technical Institute, Chiang Mai University, American Pacific International School, and the Maejo Institute of Agricultural Technology. Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital is the largest medical institution in the city. Chiang Mai International Airport serves the city and is located about 3 miles from downtown Chiang Mai.