Chiang Mai the Living Legends, Beliefs, and Faith
Chiang Mai the Living Legends, Beliefs, and Faith
From Thailanding.Co | Aug 5, 2024
Aside from the beauty found throughout Chiang Mai, whether it be the architecture or the widespread shopping malls, there are still many places steeped in history and legends that were once prosperous in the past and continue to be talked about today.
Laddaland – The Legend of Chiang Mai
Many people are familiar with the famous tourist spot in Chiang Mai that hides eerie, mysterious tales, paired with a haunting atmosphere. Today, we will delve into the legend that has been passed down through generations.
The chilling legend of Laddaland began with its history as a famous zoo in the past, but due to poor economic conditions, the business had to close down, leaving behind only ruins. Soon after, stories began to emerge of spirits that still wander this place. Some say they are the spirits of animals that once lived there, while others believe they are the spirits of humans who worked at the zoo. These various spooky tales have turned Laddaland into a place of paranormal tourism. Today, Laddaland lies abandoned, reduced to rubble, and has become the origin of numerous ghost stories. Despite much evidence confirming these stories as true, those familiar with the place would say it’s largely fueled by people’s imaginations combined with the eerie environment. People tend to remember scary stories more vividly than others, making this place a trigger for the imagination of those who encounter it. Although there’s no solid proof for these legends, they continue to be shared, making this site a popular adventure destination for both Thai and foreign tourists.
In the end, Laddaland serves as a prime example of how a legend can add value to a place, making it both intriguing and frightening simultaneously. This location was even featured in a movie titled “Laddaland,” a horror film about a village where a gruesome murder took place, which drew in high viewership and revenue. This left many wondering whether the actual place was indeed a village like the one depicted in the film. Nonetheless, Laddaland remains widely discussed to this day.
The Legend of Kad Suan Kaew, Chiang Mai
Kad Suan Kaew is known as a famous market in the heart of Chiang Mai. Besides being a hub for local products, Northern Thai food, and numerous souvenirs, this place also has a rich history and intriguing legends. Today, we’ll take you through its journey from the beginning to the present.
Back in the era of King Rama V, the area now known as Kad Suan Kaew was a large, fertile orchard filled with various trees and plants. People referred to it as Suan Kaew. Later, in 1929, the government decided to build a market here to serve as Chiang Mai’s central trading hub, naming it Kad Suan Kaew after its original local name. Initially, Kad Suan Kaew was just an ordinary fresh market selling agricultural products, food, and daily necessities. However, in 1980, it underwent a major renovation, transforming into a modern market with commercial buildings, shops, and parking lots, eventually becoming one of Chiang Mai’s most significant shopping centers.
There’s a legend that mysterious music would often be heard, along with strange shadows moving around corners of the buildings at night. Kad Suan Kaew was more than just a central spot in the city—it was a major shopping center that has now closed down. However, new shopping malls such as Central Festival or Central Airport Chiang Mai have continued to thrive, offering locals a place to shop and relax.
Even though Chiang Mai has stories and legends of places that have closed down, progress continues, and Chiang Mai remains the second most popular city in Thailand for tourists. With its beautiful mountains, Chiang Mai Zoo, and the misty atmosphere during the cold season, it has become a favored destination for those looking to celebrate New Year’s. If you want to experience Chiang Mai’s cool weather, it’s best to visit at the end of the year. Be sure to plan ahead by booking accommodations and consider hiring a local guide or booking a tour to explore the beautiful architecture before venturing out on your own.
Enjoy the local food, culture, and easy transportation. Don’t forget to invite friends to join your trip, and avoid traveling alone. It’s best to have at least one or two companions in case of emergencies, such as illness, so they can take you to a safe place like one of the fully equipped hospitals in Chiang Mai, always ready to welcome tourists.
