In 1296, Chiang Mai became the epicenter of Lanna Kingdom. This kingdom, in English it translates to "Kingdom of a Million Fields", was home to bright scholars and creative craftsmen, and for good reason. Chiang Mai is home to more than 300 Buddhist temples, and is the host to treasured Thai celebrations. The most popular is Yi Peng, held on the full moon of the 12th month on the Thai lunar calendar. On Yi Peng, thousands of people gather to release paper hot air balloons into the air. It's believed that the lanterns are troubles drifting away.
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