When we think of traveling to Chiang Mai, we often picture temples, art, cozy cafés, and digital nomad culture. But what many tourists miss are the stunning mountains and the old villages nestled in them.
I flew to Thailand on the first day of February, and my first stop was a small, century-old village situated 1,300 meters above sea level in Mae On District, Chiang Mai — Mae Kampong Village.
Mae Kampong (แม่กำปอง) is known as one of the most beautiful villages in northern Thailand. More than a hundred years ago, farmers settled in the area to grow and cultivate tea. Today, the village is home to around 120 families and has become a favorite among locals and tourists for its tea and coffee culture, as well as its breathtaking mountain scenery.
This is how I spent 48 hours in Mae Kampong Village.
HOW TO GET AROUND MAE KAMPONG VILLAGE
To get around Mae Kampong Village, local taxis are available. You can ask your hotel to arrange one for you (most hotels have a contact driver) to take you to the main village or to Mae Kampong Waterfall.
There is also a terminal located in front of Mae Kampong School, where you can catch a ride back to your hotel.
For reference, we paid 30 baht per person from our hotel, Portare.Home, to the main village area where the shops are located, and 50 baht per person from the hotel to Mae Kampong Waterfall.
MORE BONUS TIPS & REMINDERS FOR VISITING MAE KAMPONG
ACCOMMODATION. Homestays are common in Mae Kampong Village. You may choose to stay near the shops for accessibility, or outside the main area for a more peaceful environment.
OPERATING HOURS. Some shops do not start operating until 4 PM onwards. It can be busier in the morning, as this is when delivery trucks arrive and when people traveling to and from Kew Fin Viewpoint pass through. There may be fewer shops open earlier in the day.
BRING CASH. Bring enough Thai baht with you before heading to the village. As far as I’ve seen, there are no ATMs within the village.
WEAR INSECT REPELLENT. Mosquitoes are no joke in Thailand. Make sure to wear insect repellent wherever you go.
BE RESPECTFUL AND MINDFUL. Always remember that we are just guests in the countries we visit. It wouldn’t hurt to show respect to locals, as well as to the other tourists. Take the time to learn about the cultural norms and traditions of your destination.
PROPER TEMPLE ATTIRE. Wear appropriate clothing when visiting temples. Avoid sleeveless tops, shorts, mini skirts, and revealing clothes. Make sure your knees and shoulders are covered.
DISCLAIMER: All information in this post is based on my personal experience, and research at the time of writing. However, some details, laws, and rules may have changed over time. Always double-check current info before you travel!
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My trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand got off to a great start with my visit to Mae Kampong Village. It was the perfect place to regroup, heal, and recharge.