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The city was built by King Mengrai in 1296, Chiang Mai was a successor to Chiang Rai (also a kingdom of King Mengrai). The King who was the Prince of Nan Chao (in what is now south west China), had earlier conquered the post-Dvaravati kingdom of Haripunjaya (modern Lamphun) in 1281. In the 13th and 14th centuries Chiang Mai became a part of the Lanna Thai kingdom (the kingdom of a million rice fields). In 1556, the Burmese captured the city for the second time. The first assault was in the 11th century during the reign of King Aniruddha of Pagan. The history of the mountain kingdom has been turbulent, given its yo-yo act between the opposing powers of Siam and Burma. In 1775, Siam recaptured Chiang Mai under King Taksin. But effects of the various occupation remained, in the architecture and the cuisine, both heavily influenced by the Burmese. Because of its isolation Chiang Mai acquired a completely different character from the rest of Siam and the differences are more than obvious even today. In fact, the people of this province are its main charm; from different cultural and tribal origins. Meo, Lisu, Yao, Akha, Lawa and Karen hill tribes live throughout northern Thailand's mountains and a major concentration is in the Chiang Mai province. This mountain getaway is also a convenient jumping-off point for treks, hill resorts, river rafting and scenic nature trails, The best time to visit Chiang Mai is from November to February which is the cool season. The hottest month is April and the wettest September. The city is Thailand's second largest but still has a provincial charm to it which is attractive. It offers the conveniences of a big city minus the hassles of traffic and pollution.