With the Blue Jasmine well on its way into northern territory, guests aboard the luxury train are preparing for a few days in the heart of Lanna culture and tradition: Chiang Mai.
Gary Marshall describes the way the morning comes in for those on the train: “As the sun rises, the early birds on board are treated to magnificent views of the surrounding mountains as they sip their morning coffee. It’s an awe-inspiring sight and an experience worth getting up early for.”
Breakfast follows, again served with aplomb by award-winning chef Patipat Lakphong, just before guests disembark and make their way to their lodgings at the Bodhi Serene which will be home for the next couple of days.
A serene mountain hideaway
At the hotel, the early check-in enables guests to relax and unwind in rooms that capture the simple elegance of the region and the warmth of Lanna hospitality.
Part of the Serene Group of Hotels, the Bodhi Serene takes its name from the bodhi tree growing in its premises.
The word bodhi itself is rich in meaning: a slight translation of the Sinhalese bo-gaha or “tree of wisdom” as the Buddha gained enlightenment whilst sitting beneath the shade of such a tree.
The serenity and enlightenment of that sacred experience is captured in the hotel’s tranquil environment paired with expertly delivered service that feels warm and welcoming regardless of one’s point of origin.
A city of temples
Once in Chiang Mai, guests are welcomed into their excursion by the crisp, cool mountain air and the more relaxed mindset of the locals.
It is important to note that Chiang Mai is a royal city: originally founded in 1299AD, it served as the religious, political, and cultural capital of the Lanna Kingdom which covered what is now Northern Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar till the early 20th century.
Chiang Mai is also where the Lanna monarch Mangrai, the fifth ruler of the royal line, promoted Buddhism, leading to the construction of over 300 temples throughout the city.
Over the past 700 years, the temples have been built and rebuilt: silent but powerful witnesses to the relentless march of time, seeing dynasties rise and fall in equal measure.
Among these stunning places of worship are Wat Phra That Doi Suthep which offers magnificent views thanks to its location on Mount Doi Suthep and has the distinction of being a divinely-chosen site, which has led to it being whimsically named the Temple of the White Elephant.
Guests found themselves enthralled by the intricacies of traditional Lanna architecture and the environs helped draw them into the area’s storied past, immersing them into the richness of Chiang Mai’s royal and sacred heritage.
Thus beguiled, they found themselves at a cosy restaurant that served the delectable flavours of Northern Thai cuisine before making their way back to the hotel for a restful evening.
Read our previous entries on our Blue Jasmine journey:
- Bangkok-Ayutthaya: https://www.traveldailymedia.com/all-aboard-the-blue-jasmine-meandering-into-ayutthaya/
- Overnight on board through Uthai Thani: https://www.traveldailymedia.com/all-aboard-the-blue-jasmine-curated-luxury-into-uthai-thani/
