Three Kings Monument

The Inthakin Festival is one of Chiang Mai's most important annual festivals, and one that doesn't get nearly enough attention outside of the local community. The week-long celebration honours Sao Inthakin – the city's guardian pillar, now housed within the grounds of Wat Chedi Luang – with flower offerings, merit-making activities and prayers for prosperity and protection against disasters. But that’s just for your own merit. There’s also a tonne of spectacle throughout the week, with traditional Lanna cultural performances, live northern music and food markets filling the temple grounds. But the highlight this year may have to be the tram rides. Courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, free evening tram rides run from May 14-18, taking you through the city’s cultural icons including Warorot Market and Tha Phae Gate before dropping you off at Wat Chedi Luang just in time for the  ceremonies. For the full details click here.  May 14-18. Free. Register here. Pickup point is at Three Kings Monument. From 6pm-8pm