Thailand's second-largest city and the northern gateway was founded in 1296. You can still see the moat that encircled the original city, and there are 300 wats, including Wat Chiang Man (home of the 1800-year-old 10-cm-high Crystal Buddha), Wat Phra Singh (built in the classic northern-Thai style) and Wat Chedi Luang (partially ruined by earthquake, cannon fire and recent restoration efforts). Doi Suthep, topped by one of Thailand's holiest wats, rises 1676m to the west of the city providing a dramatic backdrop and, should you venture up, fine views of the city. Modern Chiang Mai is easily managed and very traveller-friendly. It's well known for its restaurants. Compared to Bangkok, Chiang Mai's evenings are cool and conducive to moseying around the central Night Bazaar.