Travel guide to Mae Kampong Village
Discover Mae Kampong, a picturesque village nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand. With its lush greenery and traditional wooden houses, this charming spot invites you to experience the heart of Thai culture.
Embark on a journey through the village’s rich history and vibrant local life. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a tradition enthusiast, or simply someone who loves nature’s serenity, Mae Kampong promises a memorable escape. Let’s explore this hidden gem and see what makes it a must-visit destination.
The history and importance of Mae Kampong
Origin of the town and its ecotourism transformation
Mae Kampong, a small village in northern Thailand, has a rich history of tea and coffee farming. About 100 years ago, it thrived as a trade hub due to its perfect location for growing tea at 1,300 meters above sea level.
As transportation improved, the village’s trading role faded, and in the late 20th century, Mae Kampong shifted to ecotourism. With its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage, it transformed into an eco-friendly village that now attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Today, travellers can stay with local families, visit tea plantations, enjoy traditional food, and join community activities. Mae Kampong is a shining example of sustainable tourism, blending local traditions with eco-friendly practices to protect the environment while offering an authentic cultural experience.
What to do in Mae Kampong
To truly experience Mae Kampong, immerse yourself in its unique activities. From connecting with its rich spiritual traditions to enjoying exciting adventures, the village offers unforgettable moments for every traveller.
Visiting the Wat Khantha Pruksa
Wat Khantha Pruksa, also known as Wat Mae Kampong, is a 100-year-old temple with stunning Lanna-style architecture, featuring intricate carvings and wooden structures. Its most unique feature is a small chapel that seems to float on a pond. Nestled in lush greenery, the temple offers a tranquil setting for meditation and reflection, where visitors can relax to the soothing sounds of the nearby stream and the gentle sway of the trees.
Address: V982+CQ3, Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Visit to Teen Tok Royal project
The Teen Tok Royal Project in Mae Kampong offers visitors a chance to explore sustainable farming while enjoying fresh, local produce. The project grows crops like shiitake mushrooms, passion fruit, and avocados using eco-friendly methods. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about organic farming, dine at the on-site restaurant featuring dishes made from the project’s ingredients, and see how the community preserves its land and traditions through responsible tourism.
Address: 99/5 Moo, Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Visiting the Mae Kampong Waterfall
Mae Kampong Waterfall is a beautiful spot just a short walk from the village, with water cascading through a lush forest. It’s a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, offering clear waters and scenic surroundings. Visitors can take a short hike to the waterfall, enjoy a picnic, and relax to the soothing sounds of nature.
Address: San Kamphaeng Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Experiencing the Kew Fin Viewpoint
The Kew Fin Viewpoint gives you breathtaking views of Mae Kampong’s lush valleys and mountains. It’s a must-see for nature lovers, offering clear sights of Chiang Mai province and even distant villages on sunny days. Sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful here, with the sky painted in vibrant colors. It can get cool and windy, so bring a warm jacket. A short hike will get you to this perfect spot for great photos and to soak in the area’s natural beauty.
Top cafes and local shops to visit in Mae Kampong
After enjoying Mae Kampong’s peaceful atmosphere, it’s time to explore its local cafes and shop. In this guide, we’ll highlight the charming coffee spots where you can taste the rich flavors and unique blends of the area as well as the best shop filled with local cuisine, arts, crafts, and unique items.
Rabeing View Cafe Mae Kampong
Rabeing View Cafe is known for its stunning mountain and valley views around Mae Kampong. It offers a cozy atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a variety of coffee and tea options, as well as light snacks.
Address: V984+66J, Rural Rd Chiang Mai 4074, Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Opening hours: 9AM to 5PM
The Giant Tree Coffee Shop
The Giant Tree Coffee Shop is built around a huge tree, creating a unique and cozy atmosphere. You can enjoy a variety of coffee, including pour-over and cold brew, along with light meals and desserts. The natural setting and the sound of rustling leaves make it a peaceful spot for a relaxing coffee break.
Address: Ban Pok Village, Huai Kaew, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Opening hours: 8:30AM to 5PM (Monday closed)
Chomnok Chommai
Chomnok Chommai, located in Mae Kampong, is a charming cafe with artistic decor and a peaceful vibe. It’s a popular spot for visitors, offering specialty coffees, teas, and homemade desserts. The cafe’s serene atmosphere lets you enjoy Mae Kampong’s natural beauty while you relax. Moreover, it’s close to the Mae Kampong Waterfall, making it a great stop for explorers.
Address: 69 Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Opening hours: 8AM to 5PM
The Garret Mae Kampong Chiang Mai
The Garret Mae Kampong is a charming cafe nestled in Mae Kampong village. The cafe offers a range of high-quality specialty coffees and teas from local farms, ensuring fresh, delicious drinks that support the community. While cakes and pastries are available, the focus is on well-crafted drinks.
Address: Baan Mae Kampong, 54, 8, Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Teddu Coffee
Nestled in Mae Kampong Village, Chiang Mai, Teddu Coffee is a cozy spot known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural views. Loved by locals and tourists, it offers great coffee, baked goods, and signature chocolates. The café also offers accommodation, so you can enjoy the jungle’s serenity while relaxing with a warm beverage.
Address: 85 5, Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Opening hours: 8AM to 6PM
Lung Pud Pa Peng Coffee
Lung Pud Pa Peng Coffee House is a charming café by a peaceful river. Its cozy atmosphere and small terrace bar with river views make it a perfect place to relax. The café serves excellent coffee, light meals, and desserts.
Address: Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Opening hours: 8AM to 6PM
Pirunya Coffee
Pirunya Coffee is a cozy café famous for its top-notch coffee. Set in a charming wooden building, it’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. The friendly owners are passionate about coffee and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Pirunya Coffee is a must-visit for an authentic coffee experience in Mae Kampong Village.
Address: V88X+6RP, Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Opening hours: 8AM to 6PM
Kao Soi Gloijai
Kao Soi Gloijai is famous for its delicious Khao Soi, a traditional Northern Thai curry noodle dish. The rich coconut milk base and perfectly cooked egg noodles make it a favorite for both locals and visitors. With its friendly staff and cozy atmosphere, it’s a great place to enjoy a meal. You can even adjust the spice level to your liking, ensuring a satisfying experience for everyone.
Address: V982+33V Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Opening hours: 8AM to 5PM
Sai Oua Maenim
Sai Oua Maenim in Chiang Mai is a popular spot for authentic Northern Thai sausage, or “Sai Oua.” They make their sausages with high-quality minced pork, herbs, and spices, creating a delicious and aromatic blend. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and visitors. Besides Sai Oua, the menu offers a range of traditional Northern Thai dishes, giving you a true taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Address: V982+22F, Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Opening hours: 8AM to 5PM
Cat Hill Gallery
Address: V88X+3W9, Unnamed Road, Tambon, Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130
Opening hours: 12PM to 8PM
How to get to Mak Kampong
The village is located about 50 km northeast of Chiang Mai, at an elevation of 1,300 meters. Consider the following transportation options for a smooth journey to this serene destination.
By van: Take a van from Warorot Market (Kad Luang) in Chiang Mai to Mae Kampong. The fare is 150 THB one-way. The journey takes around 1 hour.
By car/ motorbike: Rent a car or motorcycle in Chiang Mai to drive to Mae Kampong. The driving distance is about 55 km from Chiang Mai city center. Parking in Mae Kampong can be challenging, so be prepared to drive through the village a few times to find a spot
Mae Kampong, a beautiful village in northern Thailand, offers a wonderful mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its lush landscapes and focus on eco-friendly tourism, it’s a great place to relax, enjoy cozy cafes, and explore unique local shops. Experience the authentic charm of Northern Thailand in this delightful destination.
For a well-planned trip to Chiang Mai, make sure to check out our article about Chiang Mai travel guide to make your trip more enjoyable and unfrogetable.
Other best places to visit in Chiang Mai
- Tha Phae Gate
- Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Huay Teung Thao
- Doi Inthanon National Park
- Bua Thong Sticky Waterfall
- Mon Jam
