Chiang Mai - Surroundings

Almost the entire population of Bo Sang, the "Umbrella Village", about 8 km (5 mi.) east of Chiang Mai, occupy themselves in making parasols and umbrellas. The bamboo frames are covered either with varnished paper manufactured from the rind of the tonsa tree or with silk. This is then lacquered and afterwards painted with patterns, flowers or landscapes. Even the children try their hand at complicated designs.

A favorite outing among local people is to the Huai Thueng Thao dam (40 km (25 mi.) from Chiang Mai). It offers windsurfing and boat rental.

Nong Wua Park, situated 17 km (11 mi.) east of Chiang Mai, is a popular place for weekend outings. Reclaimed from previously swampy ground the park has a small lake covered in lotus blooms. There are restaurants and refreshment stalls.

The road winding its way north to the village of Fang passes, at the 78 kilometer mark, the entrance to Trinity Village, a leper colony.