Chang Phueak: The Hidden Gem of Chiang Mai

• Helloสวัสดี
  [sawatdee]
• Goodbyeลาก่อน
  [laa kon]
• Yesใช่
  [chai]
• Noไม่
  [mai]
• Please/You're welcomeโปรด/ยินดี
  [proht/yindee]
• Thank youขอบคุณ
  [kop khun]
• Excuse me/Sorryขอโทษ
  [kor toht]
• How are you?สุขสันต์ดีไหม
  [suk san dee mai]
• Fine. And you?ดีครับ และคุณ
  [dee krab lae khun]
• Do you speak English?คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม
  [khun poot pah saa angkrit dai mai]
• I don't understandฉันไม่เข้าใจ
  [chan mai khao jai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseขอดูเมนูหน่อยครับ
  [kor doo menu noi krab]
• I don't eat meatฉันไม่กินเนื้อ
  [chan mai gin nuea]
• Cheers!ชนแก้ว!
  [chon gaeo]
• I would like to pay, pleaseขอจ่ายเงินหน่อยครับ
  [kor jai ngern noi krab]

• Help!ช่วยด้วย!
  [chuay duay]
• Go away!ไปข้างหลัง!
  [pai kang lang]
• Call the Police!โทรตำรวจ!
  [tor tamruat]
• Call a doctor!โทรหมอ!
  [tor mor]
• I'm lostฉันหลงทาง
  [chan long tang]
• I'm illฉันไม่สบาย
  [chan mai sabai]

• I'd like to buy...ฉันต้องการซื้อ...
  [chan tong gaan seu... ]
• I'm just lookingฉันแค่ดู
  [chan kae doo]
• How much is it?ราคาเท่าไหร่
  [ra ka thao rai]
• That's too expensiveแพงเกินไป
  [paeng gein pai]
• Can you lower the price?ลดราคาได้ไหม
  [lot ra ka dai mai]

• What time is it?ตอนนี้เวลาเท่าไหร่
  [ton ni welaa thao rai]
• It's one o'clockเป็นโมงเดียว
  [pen mong diao]
• Half past (10)สามสิบครึ่ง
  [sam sip krung]
• Morningเช้า
  [chao]
• Afternoonบ่าย
  [bai]
• Eveningเย็น
  [yen]
• Yesterdayเมื่อวาน
  [meu wan]
• Todayวันนี้
  [wan ni]
• Tomorrowพรุ่งนี้
  [phrung ni]
• 1หนึ่ง
  [neung]
• 2สอง
  [song]
• 3สาม
  [sam]
• 4สี่
  [si]
• 5ห้า
  [ha]
• 6หก
  [hok]
• 7เจ็ด
  [chet]
• 8แปด
  [paet]
• 9เก้า
  [kao]
• 10สิบ
  [sip]

• Where's a/the...?...อยู่ที่ไหน
  [... yu tee nai]
• What's the address?ที่อยู่คืออะไร
  [tee yu keu a rai]
• Can you show me (on the map)?แสดงให้ดูหน่อยได้ไหม
  [saeng hai doo noi dai mai]
• When's the next (bus)?รถต่อไปคือเมื่อไหร่
  [rot tor pai keu meu rai]
• A ticket (to ....)บัตรโดยสาร (ไป ...)
  [bat doy saan (pai ...)]

Chang Phueak, located to the north of the old city, is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Chiang Mai. Its origins trace back to the founding of the city in 1296 by King Mengrai as part of the Lanna Kingdom. The area served as a vital point for trade and agriculture, influenced by its proximity to the Ping River and fertile plains.

The neighborhood is home to several significant temples, including Wat Chang Phueak, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. This temple, along with others in the area, showcases the influence of Theravada Buddhism in northern Thailand and serves as a center for community gatherings and religious ceremonies.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Chiang Mai experienced modernization efforts under the influence of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). Chang Phueak saw improvements in infrastructure, including roads and public buildings, which facilitated trade and communication, linking the neighborhood more closely to the growing urban center of Chiang Mai.

In the aftermath of World War II, Chang Phueak began to develop as a residential area, accommodating an influx of people moving to Chiang Mai for work and education. This period led to a blending of traditional Lanna culture with modern influences, as new businesses and amenities emerged.

Today, Chang Phueak is a vibrant neighborhood that maintains its rich cultural heritage while embracing modernity. The annual festivals, such as Yi Peng and Loy Krathong, showcase traditional Lanna customs, attracting both locals and tourists. The neighborhood continues to serve as a hub for cultural exchange, balancing the old with the new.

Chang Phueak is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Chiang Mai. If you're arriving from the Old City, you can take a red songthaew (shared taxi) for a short ride that typically costs around 30-40 THB. From Nimmanhaemin, songthaews are also available, or you can opt for a bicycle ride, which can take approximately 15-20 minutes. Additionally, if you're coming from the Chiang Mai International Airport, taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab can get you to Chang Phueak in about 15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Chang Phueak is best explored by bicycle or on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance. You can rent a bicycle from local shops, or use bike-sharing services available in the area. Public transportation options include red songthaews, which are convenient for reaching different parts of the neighborhood and beyond. Tuk-tuks are also a popular choice for short trips. For a more immersive experience, consider walking through local markets and side streets.

Chang Phueak is generally a safe area for tourists. However, it is wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded markets and tourist hotspots. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur. Areas to be cautious of after dark include the outskirts of the neighborhood, particularly near less populated streets. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid flashing valuables in public.

In case of an emergency, dial 1669 for medical assistance or 191 for police help in Thailand. The nearest hospital is the Chiang Mai Ram Hospital, which can provide comprehensive medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are readily available and can dispense over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or local homes. Don't wear revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect by removing shoes when entering temples. Don't engage in loud behavior near religious sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly and pregnant women. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a 'wai' (a slight bow with hands together). Don't use a casual or overly familiar tone with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offered by locals. Don't waste food or leave food uneaten, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Chang Phueak like a local, visit the Chang Phueak Market for authentic Thai snacks and fresh produce. Engage with vendors, as they are often happy to share stories about their products. Attend local festivals or events if your visit coincides with them, as this is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture. Try to learn a few basic Thai phrases; locals appreciate the effort and are more likely to engage warmly. Lastly, explore the quiet temples in the area, as they offer a peaceful retreat from the busier tourist attractions.